We have all had to make the decision at some time to start somewhere. In this case I am talking about bicycling on MCBC club rides. You have seen the rides schedule. You know there are many types of rides, but have you tried one? If you are new to road riding with a group, chances are you are hesitant to take that first step-to start somewhere. This is the month to take that step. If you can just start with one ride you will be hooked to continue riding. Didn’t you join a bike club so you could ride with other people? You will find others to ride with that share your same ability level. The Long Prairie Trail rides are ideal for getting acquainted and riding without worrying about traffic. The 18 mile round trip with a meal stop midway will give you an idea of how you rate with other riders abilities. If you usually ride longer distances then you can take the 30 mile option or less. In order to be comfortable riding with the group you should be able to do the 9 miles in less then an hour. You may choose to ride that trail on you own before riding with the club. The road rides also can be as short as 20-mile distances.  If you ride a hybrid or mountain bike you will find yourself working harder to keep up with same ability riders on road bikes.  All club ride leaders provide cue sheets and/or maps so you can ride at your own pace.  Call the leader and find out about the route distance and expected mph. Ask about a shorter route if you want one. (Keep in mind that “Show and Go” rides do not have a designated leader .) The leaders will never leave a rider on their own unless the rider agrees to that.

Tell the leader if you are on your first ride.   Introductions and instructions are part of the ride.   Be where the ride starts about 15 minutes before it is scheduled to leave.  Have your helmet, a bike pump, an extra tube and a full water bottle.  Someone will help you fix a flat if you need it.  Experienced road riders are always willing to provide bicycle tips & techniques, safe riding rules and ‘tall tales’ of the road.

If you still aren’t sure about when to take that first step – call one of the board members or any leader listed for some discussion about the club rides. 

Ya Gotta Start Somewhere.  Just do it!  Come join the group.  Enjoy being an active member of MCBC!     Ruth Blair