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You’ve got your bike and you’re all set. Now, what do you do and where to ride? Luckily, Coon Rapids in the north metro of the Twin Cities Gateway has plenty for you to do and see. Not only does the area offer many bike-friendly roads and miles of paved trails to explore it also does a bang-up job celebrating the 4th of July.
Riding the Trails of Coon Rapids
You can navigate the city on your bike pretty easily. There’s a great mix of paved trails and bike accessible roads that will get you just about anywhere you need to go. Just use this handy downloadable Coon Rapids bike map and take a tour of the area. It’s easy to connect by trail from places like Bunker Hills Regional Park or the Coon Rapids Dam.
It’s easy to get around on your bike on the roads in the Coon Rapids Area, with wide shoulders and friendly motorists.
You can even expand your time exploring the area by boarding the North Star Commuter Rail Line with your bike at the Park & Ride Station. Then, ride the train up to Anoka or down to Fridley and bike back on the Mississippi River Trail (MRT).
Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park
The Coon Rapids Dam Visitors Center is a picturesque place to stop and wander around.
The Coon Rapids Dam and Park Area might be the easiest part of the MRT to start on. It’s home to a section of the Mississippi River Trail that is fairly flat and takes you through a picturesque residential area along the river. The trail here is very well marked throughout your ride so getting lost won’t be an issue. At the south end of the park, the ride gets a lot more exciting with some twists, turns, and small rolling hills. Even with a semi-challenging climb, there is always a fun descend that follows.
The Coon Rapids section of the trail also surrounds you with a mix of natures forests running into a mix of prairie and wetland areas that are just minutes away from the main road. Here you can even ride your bike or walk across the beloved dam with breathtaking views of Old Man River.
Bunker Hills Regional Park
You will find miles of paved trails running through the parks here and along major roads to get around.
You can get to Bunker Hills from Coon Rapids Dam using a mix of roads and trails. Once you get onto the trails, you’ll find that many of them connect to other trail options, so explore! In Bunker Hill, you’ll find an exciting trail system that twists and turns, taking you through some beautiful natural prairies area with patches of Oak Savanna forests. Bunker Hill also boasts a fun water park if you need to cool off.
Concerts in the Park
Concerts in the park in Coon Rapids provide live music each Thursday night, throughout the summer.
After a long day of exploring the trails, there is nothing better than an evening of outdoor music. Enjoy an evening of free entertainment provided by local bands in the area. This summer concert series is scheduled every Thursday night at 7 p.m. Performances are at the pavilion at Coon Rapids Dam Regional Park.
Mini Golf
The Lilli Putt Miniature Golf Course.
At some point, you’ll need a break from riding. Why not play a friendly round of mini golf? Each hole at Lilli Putt Miniature Golf is different and will make putting here fun with every stroke. There are also go-karts and a bumper boat ride available here.
Coon Rapids 4th of July Celebration
One shot of some of the spectacular fireworks at the Coon Rapids 4 of July Celebration.
The 4th of July is a celebration for everyone and Coon Rapids knows how to celebrate the holiday properly. There are many events scheduled throughout the weekend. You can enjoy the carnival, eat great food, tap your feet to live music and watch the annual parade. Don’t forget to cap it all off with one of the best fireworks shows in the area.
Mistakes are something we as humans can’t escape, but nobody is perfect. That said, what we can do is try to eliminate some of the simple errors we may make without ever realizing we are proceeding down the wrong path. Consider taking a look below at some of the most common and damaging cycling mistakes made by both occasional and seasoned cyclists.
Cycling Mistakes #1 – Only wear a helmet when you think it’s needed
Many riders make the mistake of thinking “I don’t need to wear a helmet, I’m only going around the block with the kids”. This mentality is often responsible for the catastrophe. The truth is you never know when an accident can happen, so you should always be prepared. As an example, the worst crash I have ever had was when riding from a campsite, down a straight gravel path to the washroom. Before I knew it, I was smack dab on the ground faster than I could get my hands up to catch myself. Moral of the story Is to wear your helmet any time you ride your bike.
Helmets are always in style
#2 – Believing you have plenty of air in the tires without checking
Frequently, I see riders headed down the trail with tires so low you can hear the rim bouncing off the ground with each pedal stroke. Low tire pressure can lead to pinch flats, and more importantly, loss of control. The inner tube that holds the air in your tire is naturally porous and lose air naturally over time. In fact, a tube can lose between 3-5 PSI a day. At its extreme, your tire could go from full pressure to less than half pressure in the span of one week. Be sure to protect your ride by checking tire pressure before each ride.
#3 – Lube the Chain After Every Ride
Believe it or not, an over lubed chain is more damaging than an under the lubed chain. While I am not recommending that you ride around with a dry chain, knowing when to lube is important. Having a ton of lube on your chain will not protect it any better. In fact, too much lube will attract dirt and debris, creating a harsh slurry that covers and wears your drivetrain. The best way to lubricate your chain is to apply lube to the chain, allowing it to soak in for a minute and then use a rag to wipe off as much excess as possible. When done, the chain should feel almost dry to the touch.
The right amount of lube is a great thing
#4 – Use the water hose to clean your bike
After a dusty or wet ride, many riders reach for the hose to spray dirt off the bike. Sadly, while the bike may look clean, the bike will be in worse shape than if it hadn’t been cleaned at all. Pressured water that comes from a hose, can displace grease and leave nothing behind. Now, with no grease, the bike wears out at an accelerated rate. Instead of using a hose, try instead a warm bucket of soapy water and a big sponge.
#5 – Bring water along only on some rides
Many times, riders will assume that because the weather is cool, or a ride is short, they don’t need to bring water with them on a ride. Truth be told, the biggest drain to your energy while riding can be related to dehydration. Stay hydrated by bringing water or a sports drink along on all rides.
Yay Water!
#6 – Assume cycling shoes are only good for clipless pedals
If you don’t want to ride clipless pedals, I get that. There are tons of reasons clipless pedals are great, but at least as many reasons why they aren’t right for everybody. What you can do is use a cycling specific shoe with your flat pedals. A cycling shoe has a stiff sole and additional arch support to disperse pedaling forces over the entire length of your foot. Therefore, you have more efficiency and less discomfort.
Mistakes in general
Overall, it is a good idea to think about what you are doing before you ride your bike. Make sure your bike is ready for the ride, be equipped to take care of yourself during the ride and be sure you are prepared to reach out for help if needed. Once you go through that mental exercise you will see the common cycling mistakes melt away. Have Fun!
If you are in the Twin Cities what a fun way to spend the early part of your 4th of July, then at the 20th Annual Tour D’Amico (TDA) bike ride. This year the Hiawatha Bicycling Club (HBC) and D’Amico & Son’s Restaurants invites you to start your Independence Day celebration with a scenic bike ride and a delicious picnic upon your return.
Find old and new friends on the Tour D’Amico Bike Ride
Now in its 20th year, select from one of four scenic Tour D’ Amico routes options for a fun day.
Hiawatha bike club members greeting riders as they check in at the registration table.
TDA Bike Routes
If you are in the Twin Cities over the 4th of July and want to ride, consider the Tour D’Amico bicycle ride.
All four routes through the western suburbs of the Twin Cities are signed and supported. Maps and Ride with GPS will be available to further assist you on this fun holiday bike tour. Along the way enjoy stopping at several rest stops for refreshments and treats. Then at the end of your ride savor a D’Amico & Sons American/Italian al fresco picnic lunch.
An adventure awaits this Family as they leave Golden Valley on TDA
Choose from the 21, 29, 41 or 62-mile scenic route all mapped to give everyone riding a chance to explore some of the Twin Cities newest bike boulevards and trails. Riding through parts of Edina, Hopkins, Plymouth, and Wayzata before returning back to Golden Valley.
TDA Routes are on bike lanes, quiet country roads, and trails
What a fun way to spend the early part of your 4th of July holiday. Leisurely riding the scenic parkways and trails with family and friends. The Tour D’Amico bike ride starts and ends in Golden Valley. The 44 mile Tour D’Amico map
Riders on the Tour D’Amico route in past years
They have come to ride the Tour D’ Amico from as far away as Pitsburg, PA. to ride
Here, bikers on the 15th on Annual Tour D’Amico (TDA) bike ride, on the 4th of July.
Riding the scenic roads, around the lakes, in the western suburb of the Twin Cities on the HBC Tour D’ Amico.
Our happy Hiawatha Bicycling Club hosts at the Plymouth Station Rest Stop.
Hydration rest stops along the way offer tasty snacks
A happy TDA participant stops at one of the rest stops. Riders enjoying bananas and other treats before heading back out on the course.
Riding the scenic trails on TDA
With beautiful weather scheduled, riders will enjoy the low traffic roads, fun trails, and scenic landscapes along the way.
This guy knows how to travel and celebrate the 4th of July, will you join him?
Riding the route to the next rest stop, D’ Amico’s in Wayzata.
You know it’s good… do we need to say more!
TDA riders always enjoy some of D’ Amico and Son’s tasty salads, fruits and other treats at the Wayzata rest stop.
It looks like this rest stop was as good as the last two!
Time to head back for a Tour D’Amico picnic buffet
Here, this TDA rider makes her way back to D’ Amico’s in Golden Valley for the delicious picnic.
Here, this TDA rider makes her way back to D’ Amico’s in Golden Valley for a delicious picnic.
Celebrate the 4th of July with a D’Amico & Sons picnic after the ride, you deserve it!
Join in on the fun sharing your TDA experience with old and new friends over a D’Amico’s picnic buffet after the ride. With so many choices, save room for the dessert bars, they are sinfully delicious.
Everyone always enjoys the fine food and refreshments D’ Amico’s served after the ride – Sign up today!
About Hiawatha Bicycling Club
To learn more about the Hiawatha Bike Club (HBC) and all the fun rides they lead, like the Tour D’ Amico, see more at Hiawathbike.org.
Proceeds from the Tour D’Amico continue to benefit the Children’s Lighthouse, several trail maintenance projects in the Twin Cities and the bike education program of the Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota.
With sunny skies forecasted for this Saturday, June 15th, the new Minnesota Ironman Bike Ride is the place to meet up and ride with family, friends, and the Shakopee community!
On hiatus since 2017, the ride will now benefit the efforts of Free Bikes 4 Kidz (FB4K). After providing more than 50,000 free bikes to kids across Minnesota, this will help FB4K expand their program. At the same time continue the legacy of the state’s first organized recreational bike tour as the ride moves to Shakopee, MN.
Over the year’s, the MN Ironman Bike Ride is always fun!
Free Bikes 4 Kidz is rejuvenating the oldest bike ride in the state
“This is an opportunity for us to bring families together for a day of fun while supporting our
efforts to positively impact more children,” said Tia Martinson, Executive Director for the
Minnesota division of Free Bikes 4 Kidz. “We’ve heard so many stories from people who are
passionate about this event. The ride will retain the same look and feel Ironman riders knew
and loved, but there will be many new activities afterward. Families and friends can continue
making memories together all day.”
A great ride for family time.
The MN Ironman Bike Ride
Presented by Apple Autos, starting 7:30 a.m. on Saturday, June 15 at Huber Park in Shakopee, several route options are available. Depending on age and ability, several ride itineraries are available and they include a five, 37, 68.5 and 100-mile course. A Family Fun Ride will also be taking place beginning at 10:30 a.m.
Rider registration
Each registration allows Free Bikes 4 Kidz to provide a bike and helmet for at least one child, and early registration for the ride costs $55. The ticket price will increase to $65 on June 1st. Registration can be completed online at https://ironmanbikeride.org/. Riders can also register the day of the event for $80 on-site. For local lodging and visitor options, click here.
Riders will return to a “Big Taste of Fun”
The MN Ironman Bike Ride and Free Bikes 4 Kidz have partnered with The City of Shakopee and
JCI Shakopee for the “Big Taste of Fun” at Huber Park. The free event includes live music,
beverages and food trucks from 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. There will also be a giant slip and slide
and a movie in the park after dark. “We are thankful for the partnerships that have been formed to make this entire day possible,” Martinson added. “We know Ironman riders will appreciate the opportunity to reconnect with each other during the ride and afterward at Big Taste of Fun. And as riders discover the bike-friendly attributes of the Shakopee Area this activity will benefit the need for kids bikes all across the state.”
The MN Ironman Bike Ride is fun for all ages!
About Free Bikes 4 Kidz
Free Bikes 4 Kidz is a non-profit organization geared toward helping all kids ride into a happier,
healthier childhood by providing bikes to those most in need. The public donates gently used
bikes; we organize thousands of volunteers to clean and refurbish them, and then we give them
away to kids in need. www.FB4K.org
Driving your bike around New Orleans, bike lanes and low traffic one-way streets make it easy and safe to get around.
Seeing the city of New Orleans and its parishes on two wheels can be a fun way to experience the last section of the Mississippi River Trail (MRT). So if you are a northerner like me and need a brief reprieve from the cool spring elements the upper Midwest can dish out, this is a bike destination to consider. As the area continues to rebuild from Hurricane Katrina, the city has quadrupled its miles of bike-ways making it easy for both residents and visitors to take to the streets by bike.
Even the League of American Bicyclists has recently taken note, awarding this city the Silver, bicycle friendly community designation. So, if you looking for a fun time, here are some ideas and opportunities for that #nextbikeadventure to the Big Easy.
New Orleans – Culture and Area
Some of New Orleans parks draw visitors for both the art objects and wildlife in the background.
In the springtime the fragrance of jasmine whispering through the air. Because of this, on our last visit, we wanted to experience the city, only using bikes and public transportation. Besides the non-stop fun in the French Quarter, touring on two wheels we were able to find many other community pockets to enhance our visit. This included places with delicious meals, art, and music hotspots. Along the bike-friendly streets we rode, many were influenced by Creole and French cultures. This gave the homes in the area a wide array of tropical colors which is different from what we usually see in most northern states.
We discovered that driving your bike was the best way to see all the neighborhoods and experience, New Orleans. Thanks to the NOLA printable bike friendly map and the Big Easy Bike Coalition at BikeEasy.org, getting around New Orleans was straightforward. Besides, the miles of bike lanes, bike sharrows (painted V-shaped arrows that are stacked like sergeants stripes on a shirt sleeve that point in the direction of traffic flow of a bike route) and trails, the majority of the city is laid out with one-way streets alternating back and forth, North/South and East/West to get around.
Beginning a Bike Adventure in New Orleans
Bicyclists tend to stroll along with pedestrians while taking in the music and fun along the French Quarters in New Orleans.
First, we downloaded Joey’s digital version of the map for planning. After that, finding a printed edition at a local bike shop or one of the tour companies listed below – was a bonus!
The bike map gave us a great chart to maneuver through the neighborhoods when the main bike routes were detoured by one of the many events going on or construction updates. Using a combination of the above map options made it convenient to go from the French Quarter: up to City Park, one day; to the Garden District and Audubon Park another day; and then across the Mississippi River and back, by ferry, to Algiers for another New Orleans bike adventure. Plus, in April, the humidity is still relatively low.
Lakeview Area and City Park
Here Marcy Kelash found the outdoor scale model railroad setting, amongst the flower gardens in Lakeview Park quite exquisite.
Well worth a 15-mile round trip from the French Quarter, we found the Lakeview Area breathtaking. We even spent several hours at the City Park – that turned out to be one of the highlights of our visit. Here the gardens and sculptures in the park were impressive. Plus, in April, you will find many varieties of roses and several exotic flowers in bloom in the area. Into trains? The outdoor scale model railroad exhibit in the park was quite extraordinary, detailed with authentic replicas of buildings and tracks of the southern Louisiana area.
Lake Pontchartrain Area
In the Garden District, you will find several walking tours and stately homes to bike by.
Also, being so close to Lake Pontchartrain, we added several more miles to our day of riding through this section of town. This part of the Big Easy is quite different from the colorful Creole-influenced shotgun houses we biked past near the French Quarters. It was picture perfect riding in the area. Riding through the high-end neighborhoods where sycamore trees shade the architecturally present and pristine lanes there an enjoyable adventure touring the northeast section of the Big Easy.
Algergers Neighborhood and the Last Section of the Mississippi River Trail
Crossing the Mississippi River to the Algergers neighborhood by ferry is free for the passage for bikers and walkers.
In the Algergers neighborhood, after crossing the Mississippi River by ferry, (free passage for bikers and walkers) you will find a bike trail that follows the river up steam. This is the last section of the MRT before the Gulf of Mexico. Here, riding along the river, you can view some of the big boats coming in from the Gulf and the skyline view of Downtown New Orleans. Plus, if you are lucky when passing by the warehouses along the trail, you may see some of the Mardi Gras floats – sometimes open for a tour.
Marigny/Bywater Area
Dr. Bob is a New Orleans self-taught folk artist who has made the phrase “Be Nice or Leave” a part of his identity.
A ride back on the ferry, another Creole-influenced neighborhood is the Marigny/Bywater area. This is a great place to discover the soul of New Orleans. Here you will find many artists and several hole-in-the-wall places offering great food and music. For ribs, some of the best we have ever feasted on, try the “Joint.” For other great entrees, check out Elizabeth’s on Chartres Street. And don’t forget to stop at Dr. Bob’s Art Gallery.
Dr. Bob is a New Orleans self-taught folk artist who has made the phrase “Be Nice or Leave” a part of his identity. Here we found objects many everyday objects he has transformed into his artwork. You’re sure to be interested in the eclectic mix of Southern Louisiana influenced art that you can find in his gallery of fun objects. Just pull into the double gates of the complex, pass the lumber yard, park your bike back by the trailer, and introduce yourself.
Other Areas in New Orleans
Around New Orleans, several other guided biking and walking are available, with recommendations for places to visit on your own.
Visiting the Carrollton, Garden District, and Irish Channel Area from the French Quarter, discover the ease of riding the new bike lane on Magazine Street. Once you arrive in the Garden District, several guided biking and walking tours are available. The tours are well worth signing up for, to maximize your Big Easy bike experience. I would recommend taking one or several of these tours on the front end of your visit to maximize your time pedaling around this area. Plus, you will get the inside scoop to good places to eat and local music that showcases the soul of the New Orleans.
Bike Rental in New Orleans
A fun print displayed in one of the art shops in the French Quarters, in New Orleans.
If this is your first time planning a trip to the Big Easy and exploring the city on two wheels, leave your own bike at home – unless you are serious about packing on the miles. Most points of interest are less than a 20-mile meandering round trip from the French Quarter area. If you choose to rent and plan to cover more than 10-miles in a day, pay a couple of extra bucks for a bike with five-to-seven-gears. Though the terrain is fairly flat, it is not uncommon to encounter a headwind – coming or going – in or out of the different neighborhoods. For shorter distance sightseeing opportunities or when combining public transportation (bus/cable car with bike racks) on your excursion, single speed cruisers bikes work well.
Our Bike Rental Picks
Biking near the French Quarters you will notice the colorful Creole and French-influenced shotgun homes there.
I found several bike rental shops, most around the French Quarter. Rental options, I checked out and was impressed with included: Michaels Bicycle Sales, Rental and Service on Frenchman Street and Ride This Bike Rental and Folding Bike Sales on Dauphine Street. Both places had Joey’s Bike Map, were friendly, and they were helpful with tips on riding around the Big Easy.
Looking for neighborhood bike tours that include a rental (most have single speed bikes with coaster brakes?). We enjoyed a tour of the Marigny/Bywater area led by the staff of the Confederacy of Cruisers Tour Company. Not only was the tour fun, but our guide also offered many suggestions on food and music hot spots, that we checked out later on in the day and fully enjoyed.
Places to Stay in New Orleans
For lodging options throughout the city, places to eat, events and festivals to see, the New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau web site is a great place to look for more information when planning a bike visit to the Big Easy – the last city on the Mississippi River Trail.
As last Saturday’s rain, sleet, and snow hindered many to the north and south of the Twin Cities, the first of twelve progressive ride series scathed Mother Nature’s ill mood. With partially cloudy skies and temps hovering in the low 50’s the Hiawatha Bike Progressive Ride Series held its first ride in Roseville MN. An effort by Hiawatha Bicycling Club (HBC) and D’ Amico’s Restaurants to help more get in shape with upcoming bike activities and the club’s annual Tour D’Amico (TDA), 4th of July bike ride. The HBC Series offers three complimentary rides in four locations, Wayzata, Golden Valley, Edina, and Roseville. The first of three in Wayzata, MN starts this Saturday.
Participants on the HBC Progressive Ride I in Roseville leaving the Bicycle Chain Bike Shop
About the Progressive Ride Series
The total miles of the first ride of each ride location is approximately 12 to 14 miles. The second Ride will be approximately 16 to 18 miles and Ride III at each location will be approximately 22 to 24 miles. Each progressive group rides is carefully planned and ridden by HBC members that use these routes regularly, using a combination of trails and quiet neighborhood streets to give you a sampling of fun ways to get around each area.
Riders on the HBC Progressive Ride I, in Roseville, leaving D’ Amico & Sons who provided some delicious snacks
Halfway through the ride participants will enjoy a scheduled rest stop at D’ Amico & Sons Restaurant. Those on the ride will enjoy a complimentary ‘tour salad sampler’ and a chance to taste D’ Amico’s Gelato Ice Cream. The terrain on these rides is rolling with a few modest hills, to test your stamina. Don’t worry, no one will be left behind as a ride leader will follow from behind to make sure everyone arrive back to the start, safely. Kids under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to participate.
Hiawatha Bike Wayzata/Long Lake Progressive Ride I (this Saturday)
On Saturday, May 4, 2019, at 1 p.m. sharp, Ride I will offer you a chance to meet some new riding friends. With the opportunity to discover some new route options HBC offers through the year in the Wayzata area. The rides will start at Gear West Bike Shop, 1786 Wayzata Blvd, Long Lake, MN (parking one block north in the park). Remember to bring your helmet and if you need air for your tires or minor bike adjustments, please come early so the staff at the bike shop has time to help you before the ride.
HBC Progressive Ride II will be on May 18 and Ride III will be on June 8, see more details on the HBC Ride Events Calendar and RSVP.
Hiawatha Bike Golden Valley/Hopkins Progressive Ride I
On Saturday, May 11, 2019, at 1 p.m. sharp, Ride I will offer you a chance to meet some new riding friends. With the opportunity to discover some new route options HBC offers through the year in the Golden Valley/Hopkins area. The rides will start at Tonka Cycle Bike Shop, 16 Shady Oak Rd, Hopkins, MN (parking one block north). Remember to bring your helmet and if you need air for your tires or minor bike adjustments, please come early so the staff at the bike shop has time to help you before the ride.
HBC Progressive Ride II will be on June 11 and Ride III will be on June 29, see more details on the HBC Ride Events Calendar and RSVP.
Hiawatha Bike Edina/Richfield Progressive Ride I
On Saturday, May 18, 2019, at 1 p.m. sharp, Ride I will offer you a chance to meet some new riding friends. With the opportunity to discover some new route options HBC offers through the year in the Edina/Richfield area. The rides will start at Brown Cycle, 2323 W 66th St, Richfield, MN (parking lot rear of store). Remember to bring your helmet and if you need air for your tires or minor bike adjustments, please come early so the staff at the bike shop has time to help you before the ride.
HBC Progressive Ride II will be on June 2 and Ride III will be on June 22, see more details on the HBC Ride Events Calendar and RSVP.
Hiawatha Bike Roseville/N. St Paul Progressive Ride II
On Saturday, May 18, 2019, at 1 p.m. sharp, Ride II will offer you another chance to meet some new riding friends. With the opportunity to discover some new route options HBC offers through the year in the north St. Paul area. The rides will start at Bicycle Chain (parking lot near the street at 1712 Lexington Ave North). Remember to bring your helmet and if you need air for your tires or minor bike adjustments, please come early so the staff at the bike shop has time to help you before the ride.
HBC Progressive Ride III will be on June 8 see more details on the HBC Ride Events Calendar and RSVP.
About the Tour D’ Amico
Find old and new friends on the Tour D’Amico Bike Ride
For more information on the Tour D’ Amico on the 4th of July, check out their website here.
Do you like the idea of having the excitement of bicycle racing here in Minnesota? A fun bike event drawing in professional bicycle racers for some great blood, sweat, and gear competition around every turn? If so, the organizers of the North Star Grand Prix (NSGP) would appreciate any and all assistance in the final week to help them save the event.
Racing around a tight corner on the popular Minneapolis Uptown course (photo Stephanie Williams)
A fun bike event since 1999
The North Star Grand Prix volunteers have worked for the last year to upgrade the twentieth annual event to a Women’s 2.2 UCI Stage Race and ‘Bring the World’ to the Minneapolis-St. Paul metro area. They have secured three great venues and race courses to showcase high-quality professional bicycle racing for fans, athletes, and host communities.
An all-out sprint to the finish line in Downtown St Paul (photo Stephanie Williams)
The North Star Grand Prix faces a budget shortfall for 2019 and has set a May 3rd deadline to raise the necessary funds. If at that time the funds are not secured the event will be canceled for 2019 and the organization will make no further efforts to host the event in the future. The North Star Grand Prix is still open to any and all sponsorship discussions and also has created a GoFundMe page to raise the necessary funds to host the 2019 event.
Can you help?
Please consider supporting this event on their GoFundMe page and share the link on your social media platforms.
A victory crossing the finish line (photo Stephanie Williams)
The NSGP Minnesota stage race was first held in 1999 and was known as the Nature Valley Grand Prix up until 2014. … Originally, organizers planned a five-day stage race, June 12-16. However, they have since scaled back plans, making it a three-day event. It is tentatively scheduled for June 14-16 if funding can be secured.
Has the idea of using an electric bike, called an e-bike, piqued your interest? If so and you are looking to extend your range of bicycle travel, you are in luck. Coming to Minneapolis, the E-bike Challenge, Today and Sunday,s March 23–24, 2019. Mark your calendar and plan to see and test all the latest e-bike models on the shows indoor test track.
So what is a pedal-assist electric bike
Also called a “pedal-assist” bike, an e-bike has a battery and motor that allows a bicyclist to ride farther, with greater ease. Some cyclists, using an e-bike, can reach a distance of up to 70 miles on a charge. With a pedal-assist system, the rider must pedal to engage the motor to enable a more leisurely ride. see more in the shows: E-bike/Hike Guide to prepare the questions you will want to ask.
With more than 30 bicycle brands exhibiting at the show. Each brand will have several models, so choosing the right type of e-bike for your style of riding. Making it easy to find an electric bike for commuting, recreational riding or hauling cargo, Plus options for shuttling the family, e-trikes, e-fat-bikes, and many e-bike accessories.
A fun test track, many workshop presentations and more
Just imagine, after narrowing down your e-bike selection, taking the bike out for a spin on the indoor track set up around the at the E-bike Challenge. The event also features breakout sessions, a kids’ bike test track, an e-bike theater space, fun family activities, and more.
Breakout sessions at the event include, “Easy commuting by e-bike” and “The secret of ice fishing with a fat tire e-bike.” Another keynote presentation will feature, “How to build the future bicycling friendly city.”
Tickets for the E-bike Challenge are six dollars at the door. When purchased online, they are four dollars; and children up to 12-years with a parent or guardian are free.
For more information about the E-bike Challenge, see the KSTP TV video clip.
On the front end of a bike/barge trip in the Netherlands last year, I added three days to explore Amsterdam by bike. Taking the extra time was a great choice, and using a bike as
my mode of transportation was by far the best way to see the city. This allowed me many opportunities to sample the fare this bike-friendly mecca had to offer. Winging it a bit, I rented one of the locally popular trekking bikes to roam alongside the canals like a true ‘Amsterdammer,’ even though I stuck out a bit wearing a bicycle helmet. I was comfortable navigating the bike lanes, even with motor scooters buzzing up from behind and pedestrians
stepping out in front of me. As bikes are an important part of Amsterdam, I felt like I was a part of the city.
Amsterdam is a bike-friendly place to ride, if?
Pedaling into one of Amsterdam’s parks over the canal.
The cool thing about using a bike to get around this city is that you can easily get anywhere quickly. Amsterdam is perfect for bicycles. The city has generous bike paths throughout; some even have specialized traffic lights, with the bicycle symbol illuminated. It seems Amsterdammers go everywhere on their bikes. They attach wagons and load them with cargo – sometimes their children. They also like to chat on their cell phones, run red lights, daringly weave in and out of traffic, and the vast majority of them do not wear helmets. Most of
the Dutch bikes all have the same basic look. Old fashion looking, reminiscent of bikes you would see in movies from the 1950s, with wide-set handlebars
Need a bike? Rental shop options are endless
One of the bike rental shops working on their fleet of bikes.
Looking on the web for a rental bike, there seemed to be an ample supply of bikes available around the city. I assumed that I could wait until midmorning to go out and rent a bike for the next couple of days, my mistake. Even though it was a midweek day, the best bikes in two shops I stopped at had most of their fleet checked-out. Only a few of their older, well used bikes remained. Luckily a bike was being returned that fit me well. So I was on my way, taking with me a valuable lesson in renting bikes in a popular tourist area. Unless you can reserve a bike ahead of time, get there early to get a pick of their best.
Navigating Amsterdam and what you can see
Pedaling along the bike-friendly streets in Amsterdam
Handy bike maps are available, free, at most hotels, and bike rental shops. With a couple of versions in my pocket for occasional review, they worked well for me. Pedaling the streets along the canals, there is way too much for the eye to see, from gorgeous architecture, charming flower boxes, crowded cafés, etc. So forget your iPod; your ride will have its own soundtrack.
Passing through the Red Light District in Amsterdam
Some of the sounds you may hear include the whirring of a canal boat’s motor, the peal of church chimes, the hum of motor scooters as they zip up behind you, triggering your brain to move over to the right to let them by, and the tinkle of a bike’s bell, maybe yours? I found that my right hand stayed pretty close to the bell on the bike’s handlebar, warning sightseers to move out of the bike lane.
My first day riding in Amsterdam
The City Center is packed with full designated bicycle parking lots.
As I mentioned above, I started late checking out a rental bike. Then getting acclimated to the designated bike lanes and tourists walking out in front of me. It was amazing how much I experienced in such a short time. I had no planned route; it was fun to get lost in the city with its maze of streets (straats) and canals (grachts). Of course, those maps in my pocket helped find my way back to my hotel. In the first few hours, I rode through Amsterdam’s finest sections, including the Jordaan District, which could be referred to as the city’s heart. Then I rode past the Anne Frank House, where I had a tour scheduled the following day. Next, I passed the house of Rembrandt and then by the awesome architecture of the Rijksmuseum. Finding my way back, I wandered through China Town and then the Red Light District before meeting friends for dinner.
Overcoming the intimidation
Locking your bike to a bridge in Amsterdam can be a hazard.
In just a few hours riding my bike around Amsterdam, my confidence was high … and so was my thirst. Meeting friends for a beer, several of who just arrived in town for the bike/barge cruise, there was some envy as I pulled up on my rental bike. Several asked as I walked in with my helmet still on, “where have you been?” I replied with an accomplished grin, “I’ve biked all over town!” As I shared with them my first day’s adventures in Amsterdam, touring the city by bike.
A full day to explore Amsterdam
Riding along with the street Cafes in Amsterdam
With a loose itinerary, only the Anne Frank Tour scheduled mid-afternoon and dinner plans in the evening, I was off. First, I found myself at Amsterdam’s bustling flower market, where crowds come to buy or just admire a wide array of flowers. After enjoying a cup of coffee and the fragrance of the market, I pedaled across a series of canals to one of the city’s street markets. Here, I found another Dutch treat, a herring stand. In warmer weather, vendor stands tend to spring up around the city, offering this delicacy. If you appreciate sushi or at least pickled herring, give it a try! You can order herring in a bread roll and eat it like a sandwich. Though “the Amsterdam way” is to eat the herring cold, with only diced onions and pickles as a garnish. It was delicious, and one of my favorite must-have snacks on the trip.
Enjoying Amsterdam’s street markets
Now pointing my bike towards the Central Station, up through the city center at the river’s edge, I took a ferry across Amsterdam’s north side. Following the designated bike route several kilometers, I found this part of the city was newer with many parks.
Another perspective of the city
Take the ferry across the river into North Amsterdam
After the Anne Frank tour, which was well worth the extra time of waiting in line, I was off to the east side of Amsterdam. With several blocks of modern architecture in-between canals, this area gave me another perspective of the city. I planned to take in a few more tours, but I ended up spending more time on the bike. On my way back through the inner city of canals, as late afternoon turned into happy hour along the way, the activities along the sidewalk cafés were entertaining to see.
Sure, you could see Amsterdam in other ways. But, in a city with roughly 250 miles of cycle lanes, over 140 bicycle rental shops, and estimated million-plus miles collectively pedaled by
bicyclists each day, why would you want to waste carbon fuel?
So, in my opinion, assuming you survive the pedestrians wandering out in front of you, biking here is the best. A half-million Amsterdammer’s can’t be wrong. Just be sure to look both
ways before heading out into traffic, and don’t be afraid to ring your bell!
Has the idea of using an electric bike, called an e-bike, piqued your interest? If so and you are looking to extend your range of bicycle travel, you are in luck. Coming to Minneapolis, the E-bike Challenge, Today and Sunday,s March 23–24, 2019. Mark your calendar and plan to see and test all the latest e-bike models on the shows indoor test track.
So what is a pedal-assist electric bike
Also called a “pedal-assist” bike, an e-bike has a battery and motor that allows a bicyclist to ride farther, with greater ease. Some cyclists, using an e-bike, can reach a distance of up to 70 miles on a charge. With a pedal-assist system, the rider must pedal to engage the motor to enable a more leisurely ride. see more in the shows: E-bike/Hike Guide to prepare the questions you will want to ask.
With more than 30 bicycle brands exhibiting at the show. Each brand will have several models, so choosing the right type of e-bike for your style of riding. Making it easy to find an electric bike for commuting, recreational riding or hauling cargo, Plus options for shuttling the family, e-trikes, e-fat-bikes, and many e-bike accessories.
A fun test track, many workshop presentations and more
Just imagine, after narrowing down your e-bike selection, taking the bike out for a spin on the indoor track set up around the at the E-bike Challenge. The event also features breakout sessions, a kids’ bike test track, an e-bike theater space, fun family activities, and more.
Breakout sessions at the event include, “Easy commuting by e-bike” and “The secret of ice fishing with a fat tire e-bike.” Another keynote presentation will feature, “How to build the future bicycling friendly city.”
Tickets for the E-bike Challenge are six dollars at the door. When purchased online, they are four dollars; and children up to 12-years with a parent or guardian are free.
For more information about the E-bike Challenge, see the KSTP TV video clip.
