Ride bikes. be happy.

Using cycling to improve mental health, build resilience, and unite riders across the Charleston Lowcountry community.

Get to know us

Palmetto Cyclist Collective is a Charleston-based cycling community dedicated to promoting mental and physical wellness through riding, mentorship, and community connection. We believe the bicycle is a powerful tool for improving mental health, building resilience, and bringing people together.

Our mission is to create an inclusive and welcoming cycling community across the Charleston region by providing opportunities for riders of all backgrounds and experience levels to participate in group rides, mentorship, and competitive racing. Whether someone is new to cycling or an experienced racer, Palmetto Cyclist Collective aims to foster a supportive environment where riders can challenge themselves, grow, and form lasting connections through the shared experience of riding.

Beyond the bike, our goal is to strengthen the local cycling culture in the Lowcountry by encouraging healthy lifestyles, expanding access to the sport, and creating pathways for riders to discover the personal and community benefits of cycling.

RIDE WITH US

My name is Sam Garver. I’m a military veteran who discovered the transformative impact of cycling after leaving active service. Like many veterans transitioning back to civilian life, the shift brought new challenges both physically and mentally. Cycling became a powerful outlet—providing structure, purpose, physical fitness, and a way to reconnect with community.

After moving to Charleston, I recognized an opportunity to grow and strengthen the local cycling community while sharing the benefits that cycling had brought to my own life. Palmetto Cyclist Collective was created to help more people experience the mental, physical, and social benefits of riding while building a welcoming and supportive cycling culture throughout the region.

Through group rides, mentorship, and racing opportunities, the club aims to inspire more people to get on a bike, build community, and discover the positive impact cycling can have on overall wellbeing.

Meet the Founder

Make a Donation

Palmetto Cyclist Collective is a USA Cycling registered club and nonprofit organization.

Your donation directly supports the programs and activities that make our club possible. Contributions help fund group rides, community events, rider mentorship, safety education, and outreach efforts designed to introduce more people to cycling and strengthen the local riding community.

Donations also help cover the operational costs of running the club, including our status as a registered USA Cycling club, which allows us to support competitive racing opportunities, maintain proper insurance coverage, and provide structured programs for riders of all experience levels.

Every contribution—large or small—helps us create more opportunities for people to experience the mental health benefits, resilience, and community connection that cycling provides.