Come and enjoy a tour centered around the 1876 Jesse James gang bank robbery that put Northfield, Minnesota, in the national headlines. Kicking off this year’s ‘Defeat of Jesse James Days’ celebration, enjoy the Northfield Rotary Bike Tour. Join the posse on Saturday, September 12, 2026, for a memorable adventure!
This community-focused cycling event welcomes riders of all levels to explore the scenic countryside around Northfield, Minnesota. Offering a variety of route distances, the tour lets participants enjoy rolling rural roads, with rest stops, and the camaraderie of fellow cyclists. Organized by the local Rotary Club, the ride combines healthy outdoor activity with community spirit, and proceeds help support local service projects and charitable efforts, making it a fun way to spend a day on your bike.
- 6 Mile Family Fun Ride
- 25 Mile Road Ride
- 50 Mile Road Ride
- 100 Mile Road Ride
- 30 Mile Gravel Ride
- 52 Mile Gravel Ride
Registration
Click here to register for the Northfield Rotary Bike Tour. Day of registration opens at 6:30 am, with Start times beginning at 7 am for those doing the longer rides. The Family Fun Ride begins at 10:30 am.
Fundraiser Benefits
The Northfield Rotary Club has organized and operated the Bike Tour as a 100% volunteer-run fundraiser since 1995. Net proceeds raised at this event support Rotary’s local and international service projects and further the mission of Rotary by funding projects that promote peace, fight disease, provide clean water and sanitation, and strengthen and sustain local economies.
Current Northfield Rotary projects include Youth Exchange, the Mill Towns Bike Trail, water projects in Tanzania and Guatemala, and support for local organizations such as CAC, Ruth’s House, Hillcrest Village, The Key, and many more. More information about the Northfield Rotary Club is available on their website at NorthfieldRotary.org. After the ride, take in the Defeat of the Jesse James Gang Days festivities. Wander around the shops downtown and take in the thrilling 30-minute re-enactment of the infamous James-Younger Gang’s attempt to rob the First National Bank in town. You may also want to take in the parade, festival rides, and see more at Defeat of the Jesse James Gang Days events.