Our Mission
The mission of the Sparkling Pink Pandas group is to promote inclusivity and safety for trans individuals in society. We strive to create a welcoming and supportive environment where all trans, intersex, and gender-variant people can come together and be celebrated for who they are.
We seek to promote greater awareness and understanding of gender diversity in society. We believe that education and advocacy are crucial in creating a more accepting and inclusive world, and we strive to be a voice for the trans community.
We believe that to do this we need to help improve access to safety gear for trans folks. We believe that everyone deserves to ride safely and comfortably, and we work to ensure that trans riders have the resources they need to do so.
Through community events, group rides, and outreach efforts, we aim to create a space where trans individuals feel supported and valued. We believe that by working together, we can create a more inclusive and just society where everyone can live their lives to the fullest.
Our Vision
Promote acceptance and safety of transgender people.
FAQ
Who can join the Sparkling Pink Pandas?
We welcome all queer and femme-ish folks -- in whatever way feels meaningful to you. If you identify with our community and want to ride, you're welcome here. Trans, nonbinary, intersex, gender-variant, and all allies who share our values are invited.
Do I need a Vespa or scooter to ride with you?
Not at all! We ride everything from 49cc scooters to 1200cc motorcycles and everything in between. If it has two wheels (or three!) and gets you moving, bring it. We've had riders on rental scooters, mopeds, vintage Vespas, sport bikes, and big touring motorcycles. The vibe matters more than the cc's.
I'm new to riding. Can I still join?
Absolutely! We love helping new riders get comfortable. Reach out to us so we can recommend a good practice ride for you -- we do group practice rides, make sure nobody gets left behind, and prioritize safety. Everyone starts somewhere.
Where do you ride?
We're based in San Francisco and ride all over the Bay Area. Past rides have taken us from the Mission to Pacifica for tacos, through the city for Slurpees, up to the North Bay, and everywhere in between. We also ride in the SF Pride Parade with Dykes on Bikes every year.
How do I find out about rides?
Join our Google Group for ride announcements, follow us on Instagram and X / Twitter, or subscribe to our events calendar.
Becoming a Member
Joining the Sparkling Pink Pandas is simple: if you're cool with folks like us, you're welcome to ride with us.
Step 1: Join our Google Group to hear about upcoming rides.
Step 2: Show up to a ride.
Step 3: That's it. You're one of us.
There are no dues, no fees, no forms to fill out. Just come ride.
Earning your patch: Want a Sparkling Pink Pandas patch? Go on a ride with us and don't drop your bike. If you do drop it, that's ok -- there's always next time!
What we do: Group rides around SF and the Bay Area, riding in the SF Pride Parade with Dykes on Bikes, road trips (Borrego Springs, Pacifica Taco Bell runs, and more), community events, and generally having a great time on two wheels.
Safety gear: We encourage helmets and proper riding gear on every ride. Part of our mission is improving access to safety gear for trans folks -- if you need help getting set up, reach out and we'll do what we can.
New to riding? No worries. We do practice rides, we ride at all levels, and we never leave anyone behind. Everyone starts somewhere.
In the Press
"Resist: SF marches against trans military ban" — Bay Area Reporter, July 26, 2017
"Led by members of the Sparkling Pink Pandas Scooter Club, about 300 people answered Connor's call by marching down Market Street toward City Hall." Photo credit: Christina DiEdoardo.
Get Involved
Want to ride with us? Join our Google Group to stay up to date on upcoming rides and events, or follow us on Facebook and X / Twitter.
You can also subscribe to our events calendar to get ride notifications directly in your calendar app.
For any questions, reach out to us at sppscooters@gmail.com.