Marshall "Major" Taylor was born in Indianapolis on November 26, 1878. He was given the nickname Major by customers who watched him perform bicycle tricks outside the Hays and Willets bicycle shop while wearing a soldier's jacket. He went on to an illustrious career as a professional cyclist. He set world records in distances ranging from the quarter mile to the two mile. In 1899 he won the World Track Championship to become the first Black American to become world champ in any sport.

The first Major Taylor Cycling Club was formed in Columbus, Ohio in 1979. Indianapolis has had clubs dedicated to the legacy of Major Taylor in the past. Today, the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Central Indiana builds on its predecessors. The club is comprised of a community of individuals with varied cycling experiences, who share a love of riding and are dedicated to promoting fitness, health, and wellness by conducting and supporting recreational and social cycling activities throughout central Indiana.

Our membership is open to all, regardless of race, creed, or skill level. We conduct rides that are safe and fun for all ages and abilities. We seek to provide an environment where cyclists, with all levels of experience, can share in the appreciation of cycling while representing the spirit of fair play, modesty, faithfulness, and dignity exhibited by our namesake, Marshall Walter "Major" Taylor.

Organized in January 2021, our goal is to honor and continue the legacy of Major Taylor in his hometown. MTCCCIN seeks to educate the public about the legendary man and champion cyclist, Major Taylor.

We invite you to join us in this cause. Please become a paid member of our club and join us on our weekend rides. You can find them listed on the Bike Indianapolis ride calendar.

You can take advantage of our combo deal that gets you membership in the Major Taylor Club and Bike Indianapolis. After you’ve joined, please ask your friends to join the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Central Indiana too.