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Do you have a bike or two collecting dust, taking up space and no longer needed? If so, consider donating them to Free Bikes 4 Kids (FB4K) for their 11th annual drive, putting more smiles on kids faces. For those who have already donated extra bikes laying around, you can still help by volunteering to get the bikes ready. Their goal this year is to collect more than 10,000 bikes to hand out, can you help?
FB4K helps kids smile by donating your bike
FB4K is on a mission to see 10,000, plus smiles from all the bikes they will collect this Saturday.
The kick-off to the 2018 Bike Collection Day is on Saturday, October 6th. To make this year a success they need both your old bike(s) and help to get the bikes ready.
Helping FB4K’s put more smiles on kids faces is pedaling philanthropy
Don’t have a bike to donate? Join them at their warehouse, in Brooklyn Center, over the next two months. Sign-up for a shift or two, at a time that works with your schedule. Just open this volunteer link and answer a few questions so you can help with the 10,000 plus bikes that will be dropped off and moved to their warehouse this Saturday. Come on your own or bring your crew when you volunteer. Sign-up today to secure your spot. The more, the merrier!
Join the fun, help clean or wrench on some of the used bikes like these guys.
The warehouse, at 5930 Earle Brown Drive in Brooklyn Center, is where volunteers will clean, refurbish and give a final quality control check to each bike donated. Be a cleaner, an organizer, or a mechanic for a shift or two or more. Volunteer on your own or line up a large group. FB4K will be open seven days a week, so get involved today. Email Riely the Volunteer Coordinator, at riley@fb4k.org he can help schedule your group.
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. Then, they organize thousands of volunteers to clean and refurbish them before they give them away to kids in need. So really, FB4K helps kids smile.
In 2008 they gave away 300 bikes and last year there were over 9,316 bicycles collected and given out to children in December. In the last 10 years over 50,000 bikes have rolled through their giveaways. That is a lot of smiles on kids faces!
Though the generous help of key partners like Allina Health, QBP, Penn Cycle, Park Tool, Nice Ride MN, and others, FB4K has gone far. But they still need your support in building the foundation and to help every kid ride into a more memorable childhood.
Do your part making kids smile, see more at FB4K.org/
Take a deep breath as you grip your handlebars and prepare for a bike adventure in the northern suburbs of the Twin Cities. You will feel as if you’re deep in the country. As this north metro community area borders the Mississippi River Trail it can be your personal playground while visiting.
When in the area you can: stop and fish; play a round of disc golf; go birding; travel through a chain of lakes by bike or canoe; or explore one of the many parks. You can even satisfy your inner sports fan by visiting the National Sports Center, with a velodrome track.
Stop along the trail in the Twin Cities Gateway if wetting a line and catching some fish are a part of your agenda.
The Twin Cities Gateway is made up of nine different bike-friendly communities: Anoka;Blaine;, Coon Rapids;Fridley;Ham Lake;Lino Lakes;Mounds View;New Brighton; and Shoreview. All unique in their own way they all offering relaxed small town-type atmospheres with plenty to do, perfect for anyone looking to get away and only minutes from the big city.
A friendly bike adventure get-away
The Twin Cities Gateway is just a short drive or an easy commute by bike from Minneapolis or St Paul. Another major feature is the Mississippi River Trail (MRT) following the river’s edge in three of the nine Getaway communities: Anoka; Coon Rapids; and Fridley. Plus the other six Gateway Cities have bike-friendly roads and trails that lead to the MRT for a bike adventure.
After riding the trails and bike-friendly roads enjoy a cold beverage with friends at the Hammer Heart Brewery, it’s a great way to seal the ride.
Mississippi River Trail (MRT)
The MRT starts at the headwaters of Lake Itasca in northern Minnesota and passes through the Twin Cities Gateway before flowing into the Gulf, at the mouth of the river in Venice, Louisiana. While riding along the river in the Gateway communities you’ll pass many opportunities for site-seeing, so make sure your camera is fully charged.
Stop along the trail, in several of the parks in the Twin Cities Gateway for a round of disc golf.
For more extensive rides you can also explore the trails along the Rice Creek Chain of Lakes Park Reserve. Or, take the Rice Creek West Regional Trail back to the Mississippi River. This trail passes through Long Lake Park which has several trails that take you by the park’s namesake and Rush Lake. Another option is the trails in the Vadnais-Snail Lakes Regional Park which is filled to the brim and full of beautiful scenery as you switch from one trail to the next.
National Sports Center
If you’re tired of riding trails and want more of a challenge, check out the velodrome at the National Sports Center, in Blaine. The wooden track is open to the public every Thursday for single speed fun. The season begins in late spring and through the summer. Check out their website for more details.
For more info take a look at the At-A-Glance TC Gateway article
Now that you are considering an adventure to the Twin Cities Gateway, also check out our HaveFunBiking At-A-Glance Twin Cities Gateway Article. Here you will find more details on where to stay, play, and explore this nine-city area. Great for planning and to link to your hand-held device, for guaranteed fun.
With winter showing signs of ending and roads soon beginning to clear of snow and ice, we all look forward to venturing out into the world on two wheels. The following should help you find the right cycling clothes for that #NextBikeAdventure. Even though the weather is improving, true summer temps are still a ways off, so take a look at these tips.
Layering Up with Cycling Clothes
As we swing closer into spring, finding the right cycling clothes for an early season bike ride is important as temperatures fluctuate.
Your perceived temperature as well as the actual ambient temperature can change while you ride. In order to get the most flexibility, and stay comfortable, layered clothing offer the most options. Listed below are the many items that make up a complete wardrobe of cycling clothes. However, depending on your geography or personal preferences, some items may not be required.
-Jersey
A cycling jersey isn’t a necessity for riding, but it sure does make things comfortable. Jerseys come in lightweight sleeveless versions for the hottest summer days, or insulated long sleeve versions for cold weather riding.
-Base Layers
They come in short and long sleeve versions. They’re usually made of a polypropylene material that keeps you dry by moving moisture off your skin quickly.
-Shorts
Cycling shorts are the most important piece of clothing when it comes to comfort. There are tight versions as well as baggy ones, but all have a pad to help make your saddle more comfortable.
-Arm Warmers
Arm warmers fit snugly from your wrist to just below your shoulder. The ability to roll them up or down while you ride makes them ideal for rides that have a large change in temperature.
-Knee Warmers
Like arm warmers, knee warmers offer great flexibility on days with a large shift in temperature. They can be easily packed in a jersey pocket for use when needed.
-Gloves
Gloves range from half fingered summer versions to heavy, windproof, winter versions and everything in between. The most important thing about glove is to find something that fits comfortably.
-Tights
Tights are an essential piece of clothing if you want to be comfortable riding as the temperature drops. They help you retain body heat while not being bulky and interrupting your ability to ride comfortably.
-Jackets
Cycling jackets are noticeably thinner than a standard winter jacket. The reason they don’t need as much loft is because as you exercise, you create enough heat. Most good cycling jackets use a windproof material to stop heat from being pulled off your body by the air moving around you as you ride. Some higher end jackets are windproof as well as waterproof.
-Wind Breaker
As it sounds, this jacket or vest’s main job is to stop the wind from pulling heat away from your body. They are usually lightweight and can be packed into a very small bag for easy transport.
-Hats
Cycling caps are usually thin enough to fit under a helmet and vary in insulation depending on the material used. Warmer caps are usually made from fleece with a windproof membrane, while summer caps are made of nylon.
-Booties
Booties are thick neoprene covers designed to fit over your shoe and ankle. They do a great job of insulating while still allowing you to wear you comfortable cycling shoes. If you plan to do a lot of winter riding, you may want to invest in a dedicated winter shoe, rather than booties.
What to Wear
Now that we know about cycling clothes, let’s talk about how they fit into the game. Everyone’s temperature threshold is different, so you may find it comfortable to wear slightly more or less clothing than recommended below. After a full season of riding, you will figure out exactly what works for you and where you may need some more clothing options.
Above 65 Degrees
Jersey, shorts, gloves, and socks should be comfortable.
65 Degrees
Add knee warmers, arm warmers, base layer, and light full finger gloves.
55 Degrees
The addition of a vest keeps your core warm.
50 Degrees
Trade the arm warmers for a long sleeve jersey and swap out to thicker socks and gloves.
45 Degrees
Swap knee warmers for light tights, short sleeve base layer for long sleeve, and add a hat.
40 Degrees
A wind breaking coat and booties keep you toasty.
35 Degrees
Trade light tights for winter tights, light hat for winter cap, and full finger gloves for winter gloves.
30 Degrees
A heavy winter coat replaces the windbreaker and long sleeve jersey.
Stay Dry
With the simple breakdown of cycling clothes above you should be able to comfortably ride throughout the spring and deep into winter. If it rains, all bets are off. With rain on top of cold, the most important thing is to stay dry. Most synthetic insulating fabrics will still work when wet, but the wet greatly diminishes their ability to keep you warm.
In the rains of the fall and early spring staying dry can be a difficult task. The best way to stay dry is to wear waterproof clothing. A jacket and pants are a great way to start, but socks and gloves make the outfit complete. Before you go out and just buy anything labeled “waterproof”, understand that all waterproofing is not the same.
In their most basic form, a lot of materials are waterproof, but as soon as they are perforated with stitching, zipped closed with generic zippers, and left to be loose at all the cuffs, their waterproofing goes out the window. On top of the issue with letting water in, basic waterproof materials don’t let water vapor out. It’s just as bad to get soaked through with sweat as with rain as far as insulation is concerned.
-Keep Water Out
To keep water out, look for waterproof cycling clothes that have sealed seams or welded seams (see image). Pay close attention to the zipper. Look for waterproof zippers (pictured) or large flaps that prevent water from driving through the zipper. Make sure all the cuffs are adjustable enough to be snugged against your skin.
Examples of cycling clothes with taped seams (Left), welded seams (Center), and a waterproof zipper (Right)
-Let Sweat Out
To let the sweat out, waterproof materials should also be breathable. Breathable means that water from the outside cannot penetrate the fabric, but that any water vapor (sweat) being produced by your body, can escape through the fabric. Breathable fabrics work because water vapor is smaller than water droplets. To breath, the material will be perforated with holes small enough to stop water droplets from getting in, but large enough to allow water vapor to escape. Using a breathable material in tandem with base layers designed to pull moisture off your skin is a sure fire way to stay dry and warm.
You cannot beat the changing scenery of fall riding or the feeling of rediscovering riding in the spring. Hopefully, with these tips and a little experimentation, you will find comfort and enjoyment riding outside, even when the weather is cool.
Many enjoy the scenery along the Root River Bike Trail. Here is your chance to explore more of the Bluff Country’s wonders on the weekend bike ride this summer. Scheduled over July 7, 8 & 9th, the Bluff & Valley Bike Tour participants will discover many of the “driftless areas” mysteries.
First stopping at the historic Fremont General Store and meeting Martha, is always a treat.
This three-day weekend bike ride allows you to pedal your way up through weathered ravines, on roadways that take you to the top of limestone bluffs. Here you will have a chance to visit a general store from the 1800’s, still in operation. Then take a ride on the Amish Buggy Byway. These are just a few of the highlights of Bluff Country as you dip in and out of the picturesque Root River Valley. You can visit the eight Root River Trail Towns on the way.
Follow the weathered ravines through the limestone bluffs.
The ride covers between 50 to 65 miles each day, (with short-cut options). Beginning in Peterson, the ride features overnight camping or lodging stops in Rushford and Preston. A repeat from the 2016 inaugural tour, the ride offers a whole new set of routes and scenery. Over the weekend participants will pedal on some of the most scenic back county roads and trails that roll through this picturesque region of the state.
The Bluff Weekend Bike Ride Starts in Peterson
On this years tour, the ride leaves from this Norwegian community to explore the many scenic roads that take you along the bluffs. The first stop on this years tour is the historic Fremont General Store. A store built in 1856 that reflects a time long gone by. Plus, meeting Martha is always a treat!
Now running the north faced ridge, discover Vinegar Hill Pass on your way down to Houston for lunch. On the far east side of the Root River Trail, you will find the National Owl Center. After lunch, check out the bike sculptures and head to Rushford for an overnight visit.
While enjoying some Norseland Leftse, in Rushford, take a selfie with a friend as Ole and Lena.
Visit the historic Rushford Depot & Village Museum to learn about in the town’s milling culture. Then wander downtown to sample some locally produced lefse and other delicious dinner options. Afterwards, enjoy some of the local entertainment or take in the historic walking tour showcasing the architecture of this once vibrant milling community.
Saturday on the Bluff Weekend Bike Ride
After a hearty Bluff Country breakfast, the tour cruises through the rolling Amish countryside and down “Buggy Lane” on Minnesota’s Amish Byway. On this section of the route, you will see draft horses being used to work the field. Many farmsteads along the way offer fresh baked goods, honey, and crafts.
On you bike, cruise down the “Buggy Lane” on Minnesota’s Amish Byway.
Today’s lunch stop will be in Harmony, on the south end of the Root River Trail System. Learn more about the Amish culture while watching this busy farm community in action. Departing, the afternoon route circles to the northwest passing a couple ghost towns before coasting into Preston
An Evening of Fun and Games In Preston
Saturday night’s dinner and overnight stay will be in Preston, Minnesota’s Trout Capitol. The evening will be full of fun, music and games. If you’re interested in another historic walking tour, Preston has a very interesting itinerary and map.
Sunday on the Bluff Weekend Bike Ride
Leaving Preston after breakfast, the tour visits Fountain, the “Sinkhole Capitol of the World.” Here visit the Fillmore County History Center Museum. With several buildings full of captivating historical exhibits, you’ll want to plan another trip back here to take it all in. This is also a great place to find out more about the area’s ghost towns that you passed on Saturday. You will also learn more about the interesting facts about the sink holes here. Turns out, they supply the clean water to the areas springs that eventually flow back into the Root River. It’s amazing!
Stopping at the Museum in Fountain on the Root River Bike Ride is always interesting
On the road again, take in the charm of Lanesboro, then on to Whalan for pie. Nationally known for their “Stand Still Parade,” the first thing you’ll notice in Whalan is its miniature golf course and a beautiful park area in the center of the small Irish community. Before leaving town, take a quick spin around the neighborhood and see Ernie’s 1917 filling station.
Ernie’s Service Station is a prime feature of Whalan, Minnesota’s Past.
Back on the Root River Trail, it’s roughly nine miles to Peterson. Check out the fun possibilities there, before loading up and heading home. If you missed out on the pie earlier, or you want to do a taste test and compare, check out Burdey’s Cafe. Another well-known stop for sinfully delicious desserts and Sunday dinners along the Root River Trail.
More About the Bluff & Valley Bike Tour
Camping and other lodging options are available on this supported ride by the Root River Trail Towns. Get more information and registration here to guarantee your spot on the Bluff & Valley Bicycle Tour. *Please note: the ride closes May 18th to allow time for jersey orders included in your registration .
The following miles each day are an estimate at this time as all routes are being reviewed by both county and state departments for any upcoming road construction that may change the route and mileage. Currently we are looking at:
58 miles for Day 1 [48 miles using RR Trail short cut]
62 miles for Day 2 [48 miles using RR Trail short cut]
56 miles for Day 3 [40 miles using RR Trail short cut]
Peterson, the start of the ride, is located about 2 hours south of the Twin Cities. [Google Maps Location]
The ride benefits the Friends of the Root River Trail. All the the Trail Towns and HaveFunBiking.com look forward to you riding the tour. For a printed version of the Root River Bluff & Valley Bike Tour Package, click here.
Join the fun as the nine Root River Trail Towns in Southeast Minnesota host the 2nd Annual Bluff & Valley Bicycle Tour over the weekend of July 7-9, 2017. A repeat from the 2016 inaugural tour, this year’s three-day weekend ride offers a whole new set of routes and scenery. Starting in the Norwegian community of Peterson, participants will pedal on some of the most scenic back county roads and trails, rolling through the picturesque Bluff Country.
The Ride showcases many of the bike friendly attributes in the area, allowing ride participants many fun challenges
The Root River Bike Ride Starts in Peterson
On this year’s tour the ride leaves from Peterson, Friday morning to explore the many scenic roads that take you along the bluffs. Many of these roads parallel and overlook the Root River Valley and its popular trail system.
First on the tour is stopping at the historic Fremont General Store and meeting Martha, always a treat!
In Fremont, this historic store location was built in 1856 and is still in operation by owner Martha Johnson. Leaving the store, the tour starts a meandering downhill run to Rushford for a taste of some Scandinavian delights.
Now heading east for lunch, riders will discover Vinegar Hill Pass on the way down to Money Creek. Then heading south, passing an elk farm, it’s a slight downhill cruise to Houston. The far east trail head of the Root River system, visit the National Owl Center and bike sculptures at the Houston Nature Center at the Root River Trail head.
Everyone seems to have fun on the Root River Bike Ride with all the good food and tasty treats along the way,
After lunch the tour heads back west towards Rushford for an overnight visit and a chance to experience the town’s milling culture before a fun-filled evening.
Friday Night, the Tour Enjoys Rushford
After settling in ride participants will have a chance to visit the historic Rushford Depot & Village Museum. Then wander downtown to sample some locally produced lefse and other delicious treats.
While enjoying some Norseland Leftse take a selfie with a biking friend, as Ole and Lena.
As evening approaches, riders will find several restaurants to replenish their energy for Saturday’s adventure. Then enjoy some of the local entertainment or check out the historic walking tour of the architecture of this once vibrant milling community.
The 3-day weekend Root River Bike Ride guarantees all riders will have fun and take home many fond memories.
On Saturday, after a hearty Bluff Country breakfast the tour pedals through the rolling Amish countryside finally cruising the “Buggy Lane” on Minnesota’s Amish Byway. Along this section of the route you will see draft horses still used to work the fields while many farmsteads along the way offer fresh baked goods, honey, and crafts. *Please note, if you stop and purchase any of the Amish item offered, our sweep support staff will stop and haul them for you.
For lunch today the tour visits Harmony, on the south end of the Root River Trail System. Here learn more about Amish culture while watching this busy farm community in action. While checking out the town you will find several statues throughout the community to take a selfie with. Departing, the afternoon route circles to the northwest passing a couple ghost towns before rolling into Preston.
An Evening of Fun and Games In Preston
Saturday night’s dinner and overnight stay will be in Preston. Located along the southern branch of the Root River it is also known as Minnesota’s Trout Capitol and home to the National Trout Center. In the evening enjoy the music and some fun games that are planned. If you’re interested in a self-guided walking tour, Preston has a very interesting itinerary and map.
Stopping at the Fillmore County Museum in Fountain, on the Root River Bike Ride, is always interesting.
On Sunday, the tour heads north and rides the Root River Trail to Fountain, the “Sinkhole Capitol of the World.” In Fountain the tour stops at the Fillmore County History Center Museum and Genealogy Library. Here you will get a sampling of the area’s past. With several buildings full of captivating historical exhibits, you’ll want to plan another trip here to take it all in. This is also a great place to learn more about the area’s ghost towns that you past through on Saturday. Plus, learn more on the facts of these sink holes that supply clean water to the areas springs and eventually flow into the Root River, its amazing!
Take in the Charm of Lanesboro, then on to Whalan for Pie
On the road again, the tour circles out through Bucksnort Pass before coasting down into Lanesboro. Surrounded by bluffs, this Bed & Breakfast community here is rich in the arts and has some fabulous local diners and restaurants for lunch. Also, be sure to save room for pie. After visiting some of the shops in Lanesboro, the tour heads west to Whalan.
On the Root River Bluff & Bluff Bike Tour you will have a chance to ride with old and new friends .
Nationally known for their “Stand Still Parade,” the first thing you’ll notice in Whalan is its miniature golf course and a beautiful park area in the center of this small Irish community. You will also find Whalan’s famous Aroma Pie Shoppe, which offers some sinfully delicious desserts to select from. Before leaving town take a quick spin around the neighborhood to see Ernie’s 1917 filling station.
Ernie’s Service Station is a prime feature of Whalan’s, past, tucked under the bluffs on the bank of the Root River.
Now back on the Root River Trail, it’s roughly nine miles back to Peterson to check out the fun possibilities visiting this Norwegian community before loading up and heading home. If you missed out on the pie earlier, or you want to do a taste test and compare, check out Burdey’s Cafe. Another well-known stop for their desserts and Sunday dinners on the Root River Trail.
More About the Bluff & Valley Bike Tour
Camping and other lodging options are available on this supported ride hosted by the Root River Trail Townsand run by Have Fun Tours. Get more information and registration here to guarantee your spot on the Bluff & Valley Bicycle Tour.
The following miles each day are an estimate at this time as all routes are being reviewed by both county and state departments for any upcoming road construction that may change the route and mileage. Currently we are looking at:
58 miles for Day 1 [48 miles using RR Trail short cut]
62 miles for Day 2 [48 miles using RR Trail short cut]
56 miles for Day 3 [40 miles using RR Trail short cut]
Peterson, the start of the ride, is located about 2-hours south of the Twin Cities and about 45-minute west of LaCrosse Wi. [Google Maps Location]
The ride benefits the Friends of the Root River Trail. And all the the Trail Towns and HaveFunBiking.com look forward to you riding the tour. For a printed version of the Root River Bluff & Valley Bike Tour Package , click here.
What started as an agriculture and milling community, along the Cannon River with two colleges, has transformed Northfield into a place for cycling tourist of all skill levels and interests to enjoy. There is even a reenactment and annual bike ride, each fall, centered around the 1876 Jesse James gang bank robbery that put Northfield, Minnesota in the national headlines. Today, with both Saint Olaf and Carleton colleges based here, their presence has helped create a a bike-friendly atmosphere few other small towns can offer.
And when not biking you can enjoy the arts, history, nature, shopping and other multiple outlets for a memorable visit.
More About Bike-Friendly Northfield
Northfield is located 30 minutes south of the Twin Cities and sits along the Cannon River Valley corridor. As a multiple college town the community offers a relaxed lifestyle with picturesque surroundings that attract tourists from all over.
For cyclists, it’s like pedaling through paradise and that’s not just describing the many trails it offers. The two colleges here also add to the bike-friendly environment, along with a vibrant downtown full of locally-owned shops and restaurants. For the history buff, there’s also plenty about the town’s connection to Jesse James and routes that were used by stagecoaches of that era.
Riding Options When Visiting Northfield
There are many miles of trails in the area of Northfield and Dundas that are accessible for pedestrians, bikers, rollerblading, wheelchairs, and those bringing strollers. These trails wind through many neighborhoods and also offer breathtaking views of the nature within the community.
Mill Towns Trail
The Mill Towns Trail is the central section of the planned recreational trail between Cannon Falls and Fairbault. It will also eventually link the existing Cannon Valley to the Sakatah Sing Hills Trail, in Faribault. The first leg of the trail was built a few years back between Northfield and Dundas. Today, it has a bridge that crosses the Cannon River to connect the trail to downtown Northfield. See all the bike trail options here.
Mountain Biking Options
The Sechler Park MTB Trail is a shared-use trail system that’s open to mountain biking, hiking, and snowshoeing. Organized by Cannon Valley Offroad Cycling & Trails (CROCT), it’s a two-way trail approximately 3.5 miles long if all sections are ridden in both directions. A small skills park was added a couple years ago.
There’s also Caron Park MTB Trail, which is south of Northfield. It’s a relatively new trail system and a second trail was added in the summer of 2016. Thanks to CROCT, the trail will be ready for use once the spring thaw and Cannon River flooding is done.
Road Touring Options Around Northfield
There may not be as many farms along the quiet county roads heading out of Northfield, but there are plenty of loop options for your bike. One of the local club’s favorite routes follow the old stage coach route, south out of town. Then it swings to one of the last standing virgin timber stands in Minnesota. You’ll also be able to visit Nerstrand Big Woods State Park for a glimpse of what the terrain looked like back in the days of the Jesse James era. See many of the Northfield Bike Club’s route options here.
An At-A-Glance Look at Northfield
Be sure to check out our At-A-Glance Northfield Article for more details on where to stay, play, and explore for your hand-held devises. As this story and the At-A-Glance Article are mobile-friendly for your convenience, have fun!
It’s barely dawn, the weather is cool as he drags his unwilling body out into the world. The headlights of his car shine through the last remaining darkness as he pulls into the lot. His tired bones haven’t yet committed to the 51st Minnesota Ironman Bicycle Ride, but the energetic atmosphere drives him forward. He unshackles his bike, and after a few quick checks he heads toward the growing swarm of riders. The day may not be perfect, conditions could be troubling, but he knows completing the new course through Carver County holds coveted “bragging rights.”
What is the Minnesota Ironman?
The Mn Ironman is the kickoff event for cyclists of all skill levels, starting this year in Waconia and touring Carver Co.
The Minnesota Ironman Bicycle Ride is the longest-running century and variable mileage ride in Minnesota. For over 50 years, crowds have gathered to ride the course designed in its varying lengths. It’s also the first spring road bike event of the season, too, so weather conditions can be a mixed bag. Temperatures have fluctuated from the 30s through the 80s over the years with the chance of rain always a threat. So, why sign up for this event?
There’s Nothing Else Like It Drawing Thousands of Riders
The Minnesota Ironman is the kickoff event for cyclists of all skill levels, drawing thousand of cyclists for the first road bike event of the season.
In May of 1967, one month after the inaugural Minnesota Ironman, Ralph Baer played and lost the first two player video game ever. That means that before people challenged themselves with a controller and a screen they were enjoying the challenges of the Minnesota Ironman. The Minnesota Ironman is an event, not a race, where completion is as lofty a goal as most could achieve. Its rolling hills, scenic courses, and friendly atmosphere make this ride a premiere event each year. And this year, starting in Waconia, MN and touring Carver County will be no different.
Bragging Rights Guaranteed
Why not wait a few weeks for warm weather?
The Minnesota Ironman is the kickoff event for cyclists, rain or shine bragging rights are guaranteed.
Well, the answer is in the name. To be an Ironman, you need to prove yourself. Completing this ride means you have done something special. Even though the route is challenging and the weather often adds its own obstacles, you will not be alone. More than 3,000 riders take advantage of this annual bike tour. And the Minnesota Ironman Bicycle team will be on hand for any needed technical, coaching, and safety support.
Plus, It’s for a Great Cause
Hostelling International USA (HI) is a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting healthy recreation, international travel, and cultural exchange. Proceeds from this ride go to HI’s Minnesota location, which is surrounded by the natural beauty of Itasca State Park, at the Headwaters of the Mississippi River.
The MN Ironman attracts thousand of riders all over the country and offers everyone who participates a great time!
Whatever your reason for entering the Minnesota Ironman, know that you will be greeted on April 30th by thousands of old and new friends with similar interests, hundreds of smiling volunteers, and one amazing event. I am looking forward to seeing you there!
