Katherine “Katie” Echols Moore, affectionately known as “Surly Kate,” is a driving force behind Surly Bikes’ commitment to creating a more inclusive cycling community. Working in sales and operations for Surly Bikes, Katie is also the heart and mind behind their femme/trans/women/nonbinary (FTW) focused events and programming. Her journey in cycling, passion for Surly bikes, and dedication to breaking down barriers within the industry offer a compelling narrative of positive change. This interview delves into Katie’s experiences and Surly Bikes’ role in fostering a welcoming environment for all riders.
Katie’s connection to cycling began in childhood, influenced by her father’s passion for touring and mountain biking. While she loved riding as a child, the prevalent “bro factor” in cycling culture during her younger years led to a temporary hiatus. It wasn’t until moving to Portland, Oregon, and embracing cycling as a mode of transportation as an adult, coupled with discovering the Surly Cross-Check single-speed, that her love for cycling was reignited permanently. This personal experience fuels her dedication to making cycling accessible and enjoyable for everyone, regardless of gender identity.
Katie Echols Moore
When it comes to her favorite bike, Katie unequivocally chooses her Surly Karate Monkey. For years, she struggled with mountain bikes that felt overwhelmingly large. The Surly Karate Monkey, however, was a revelation. Its smaller 27.5+ wheels and geometry provided the perfect fit, making it incredibly fun to ride, especially uphill – an activity she previously dreaded. She praises its lively personality and all-around shredding capabilities, eagerly anticipating bikepacking adventures on it. Looking ahead, the Surly Midnight Special has also caught her eye, particularly for tackling challenging gravel and rocky terrains, showcasing Surly Bikes’ diverse range catering to various riding styles.
Surly Karate Monkey
Memorable rides are plentiful, but the annual Minneapolis single-speed gathering, Homie Fall Fest, stands out. This event, held in October or November, embodies the spirit of community Katie champions. Homie Fall Fest brings together diverse groups for a day of MTB festivities, evolving organically into smaller groups exploring routes and culminating in a fire-side gathering. Adding to the unique atmosphere, participants don costumes, encouraging creativity and lightheartedness, a testament to the inclusive and fun-loving ethos Katie brings to Surly Bikes events.
Homie Fall Fest
Katie draws inspiration from figures like Amy Kippley and Trina Haynes within the cycling world. Amy Kippley, known for her solo adventures, embodies fearlessness and resilience, inspiring Katie to embrace challenges. Trina Haynes, from Dirt Rag, exemplifies versatility and determination, balancing industry work, event planning, mountain biking, and family life, proving that it’s possible to make your own rules and excel. These women, alongside the supportive environment at Surly Bikes, empower Katie in her work.
For newcomers to cycling or those tackling new challenges, Katie’s primary advice is to seek community. She emphasizes that there’s always someone who has faced similar hurdles and is willing to help. Whether it’s packing for a first touring trip or navigating a commute, reaching out to experienced cyclists or utilizing bike shop resources like open shop nights and social rides can make a significant difference. This philosophy of shared experience and mutual support is central to Surly Bikes’ approach to building a welcoming cycling culture.
Group ride
One exciting trend Katie observes is the rise of families cycling together, facilitated by innovations like cargo bikes. She notes the increasing feasibility for families to reduce car dependence, using bikes for daily transport. Surly Bikes embraces this trend, offering products that support family cycling. Katie highlights Madi Carlson’s work in family riding advocacy, showcasing the growing movement towards cycling-centric family lifestyles, a future Surly Bikes is actively contributing to.
Family cycling
Katie’s core mission within the bike industry is to create inclusive spaces for femme/trans/women/nonbinary individuals. Her personal experiences with the “dude-bro mentality” drive her to dismantle these barriers. At Surly Bikes, she found a platform to create FTW-only zones where individuals feel safe and welcome. The positive feedback, with people expressing newfound comfort in engaging with Surly Bikes, validates the importance of this work. Surly Bikes’ commitment extends beyond products to actively fostering a respectful and supportive community.
The ultimate goal, as Katie articulates, echoing the WTF Bikexplorers group, is to “Shred the Patriarchy.” While acknowledging progress in cycling consumer demographics, she underscores the ongoing need for equality for non-cis-male individuals. Through FTW-focused events and leadership, Katie aims to foster awareness, respect, resources, support, and recognition. Success, for her, is measured by daily engagement, continuous improvement, and empowering others – a testament to the long-term commitment of Surly Bikes to inclusivity.
WTF Bikexplorers event
A significant challenge Katie faces is being taken seriously. Misconceptions about the necessity of FTW-focused initiatives and sexist comments persist. Despite these obstacles, Katie remains dedicated, fueled by the positive impact of her work and Surly Bikes’ unwavering support. Organizing events is demanding, but her passion for creating exceptional experiences for the FTW cycling community drives her forward.
To support this mission, Katie urges male allies to actively listen to and support femme/trans/women/nonbinary cyclists. This includes speaking up in their support, providing resources, and recognizing their expertise. By working together, the cycling community can become truly inclusive, a vision Surly Bikes and Katie “Surly Kate” Moore are passionately pursuing.
