CLEVELAND — Many consumers turned to biking for safe and fun exercise during the pandemic, according to the U.S. Census Bureau.

But one Cleveland native has taken this hobby to the next level. 

Chad Abraham is the founder of Smokin' Cyclists.

The group meets every Sunday to go on a bike ride and then smoke cigars. Some weeks there may be a half dozen riders. Other weeks, there may be almost two dozen.

"It’s really based off of people who appreciate cycling and getting together and also have an affinity for cigars,” Abraham said. "So it’s not just for those who like cigars, but it is an added plus to our bike rides.” 

Abraham believes these two unlikely activities actually complement each other perfectly. 

"For me, cigars bring people together as well as cycling,” he explained. "It’s a niche thing that has allowed us to meet new people from not just the city but across the state.” 

Abraham started Smokin' Cyclists during the pandemic and said the idea for the group came to him randomly. 

"So I was sitting in the park and I was just out of my quarantine last year from having COVID and I think I was just hungry for something new and fresh," he said. “I was sitting in a chair, like an old man, I had a cigar in my hand and I guy rolled by on his bike.” 

He said this group gave him the sense of community he was looking for. 

"You know, being able to sit down and smoke a cigar with other people," he said, "we are not just talking about our bike ride, but we are taking some time to really talk about some life issues. It's almost therapeutic in a sense.” 

Smokin’ Cyclists is open to everyone. You can connect with them on Instagram.