When and where is the bike ride?
The ride departs from Catonsville Bicycles, 825 Frederick Road. Wheels down at 8:30 am.
What is the distance of the ride?
The ride is approximately 21 miles long.
What time should I get there?
Riders begin assembling at 8 a.m. to enjoy pre-ride drinks, fruit, and pastries and socialize with fellow cyclists. Thanks to Atwater’s for providing the food. Arriving early will give you time to register and review the ride details with Erin Walton & Charlie Murphy, our experienced urban cyclists. The ride will begin promptly at 8:30 a.m. when the Town Crier bellows.
What is the distance of the ride?
The ride is approximately 21 miles long. View the route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/40002885
How long does it take to finish the route?
Most people finish under 2.5 hours. We all start together, and it is a social pace. However, it is a large group ride, and natural separation occurs. Volunteers will ride throughout the group to ensure everyone knows where they are going. The first half of the ride is downhill and flat. Riders should be prepared for some climbing on the way back.
What is the route like?
The 4-mile ride from Catonsville to the Gwynns Fall Trail along Frederick Road is all downhill. The portion of the ride on the Gwynns Falls Trail is relatively flat, as is the downtown Baltimore section. The ride back is a little tougher. It is mostly uphill and can be difficult at the end of the ride. The route (above) includes an elevation profile. All surfaces are paved.
Are there bathroom facilities available?
Catonsville Bicycle Shop will have a restroom available at the start of the ride. There is also a restroom at Fort McHenry.
Are there water stations?
We will have water-filling stations at the start of the ride at Catonsville Bicycles. CRTT will set up a filling station at Federal Hill. You can also fill a bottle at Fort McHenry. Plan accordingly to stay hydrated.
What if my bike breaks down or I get a flat tire?
Experienced ride volunteers can help you change a flat, and we will have a volunteer sag wagon if a repair on the fly is not possible. All riders should carry a spare tube that fits their tires.
HOT TIP If you don’t think you have the stamina to make it back or if you have young children accompanying you, you may want to have a friend or relative pick you up at Fort McHenry. This way, you can have all the fun of the bike ride and little of the hard pedaling.
Do I have to wear a helmet?
YES! Lights are also a good idea.
Do I need to wear anything else?
Yes! Please dress in red, white and blue! Please wear suitable footwear, no flip flops.
I signed up for a free ticket. Can I still make a donation?
Yes, go to https://crtt.org/donate/ and make a donation or bring cash or a check to the bike ride. Donate $125 by May 27th and receive a custom bike jersey to wear on the ride! https://forms.gle/BjZM4jer3GZsLD8Y7
Where can I park?
If at all possible, ride to the start. If you are driving, look for street parking on Mellor or Newburg and pay close attention
to any signage, as there may be restrictions ahead of the parade.
Anything else?
This is a casual and social ride with a ton of support. There are a few things that make this ride a success every year. Be prepared (route information, lights, water, helmet, bike in good condition) and follow the rules of the road.
