The 2021 Miami Valley Cycling Summit is hosted by Bike Miami Valley and the City of Kettering. This regional event will be held virtually on May 7th from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM, with the option to participate in a self-guided ride of Kettering’s bike amenities and assets on Friday, May 14th from 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM. The event welcomes elected officials, government staff, local leaders and cycling advocates to participate.
Cycling
Celebrate Virtual Bike Month!
Five Rivers MetroParks invites the public to celebrate Bike Month virtually this May with a variety of independent activities that celebrate human-powered transportation. Virtual Bike Month, will explore the region’s paved trails and many resources for cyclists.
Weekly rides, tips, games and more will be posted on metroparks.org/bikemonth and shared in the Virtual Bike Month Facebook group. MetroParks is working with other organizations, such as Bike Miami Valley and Mike’s Bike Park and Linkon the activities.
“This year during Virtual Bike Month, we’re really excited to showcase all the region has to offer for cyclists of all experience levels,” said special events coordinator Angela York. “Dayton is the center of the nation’s largest paved trail network and there’s so much to offer — especially for those looking to incorporate cycling as a means of transportation into their routine.”
Each week in May, a variety of activities will be posted, such as:
- HISTORIC SITES — Learn how you can visit historic sites along the Dayton region’s vast paved trail network.
- TRAIL OF THE WEEK — Explore cycling trails throughout the Miami Valley.
- TECHNIQUE OF THE WEEK — Learn techniques for smart road cycling and mountain biking maneuvers.
- MOUNTAIN BIKE TRAILS — Discover mountain bike trails and parks in the region so you can get started or expand your skills.
- CLUBS AND CHARITY RIDES — Connect with local cycling clubs and learn about charity rides throughout the year.
- FIELD TRIPS — Explore the outer regions of the trails and other biking opportunities in the region.
Additionally, there will be family biking tips and a weekly Bicycle Bingo Challenge that will encourage participants to complete rides, explore the outdoors and use new skills they’ve learned throughout the month. Participants will have 10 days to create a Bingo and will use a weekly hashtag to enter for a chance to win prizes.
A conservation agency, MetroParks also encourages people to participate in Bike Month as a way to lessen their carbon footprint, as cycling has less impact on the environment than vehicles that contribute to carbon emissions. As such, MetroParks will host a weekly photo contest asking people to submit photos of them using their bikes as a means of transportation. Winners will receive fun swag from MVRPC.
On Friday, May 21 — National Bike to Work Day — MetroParks will encourage people to take solo rides to their place of employment, school or to a daily activity to experience what their commute would be like on a bicycle.
Before Bike Month officially begins, MetroParks invites participants to check their gear and prepare for the month by visitingmetroparks.org/bikemonth for instructional safety videos made by MetroParks’ outdoor recreation professionals.
“Cycling is something you can feel good about in so many ways,” said York. “It gets your body moving, is a good choice for the environment and helps people decompress by being outdoors — all of which are beneficial, especially right now.”
The League of American Bicyclists has designated Dayton a bronze-level Bicycle Friendly Community, and Dayton is home the nation’s largest paved trail network where you can experience 340 miles of connected trails. Five Rivers MetroParks is a silver-level Bicycle Friendly Businesses.
Always follow the CDC’s recommendations, particularly for social distancing, when spending time outdoors. For more information and to learn how you can help keep MetroParks open, visit metroparks.org/COVID-19. Stay up-to-date on alerts, closures and ways to get outside by following MetroParks on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter
Four Cycling Itineraries to Inspire Your Next Pedaling Adventure
Here in the Great Miami Riverway, we are home to the nation’s largest paved trail network. With over 340+ miles to explore, where will you begin? Here are 4 different itineraries to get you started. These itineraries range from 5 miles to 96 miles long and have something for every ability.
Spokes and Strokes Public Art Ride – 5 miles
Starting at Rentschler Forest MetroPark in Butler County, take the Great Miami River Recreational Trail to the Fitton Center for Creative Arts (5.64 miles). Explore the Center and take a class – or just be inspired by those who have already created their masterpieces. If you’re up for continuing your journey, ride through the city and enjoy the multiple murals and sculptures scattered throughout downtown Hamilton. On your way down 2nd Street, lock your bike to one of the city’s many sculptural bike racks. The one next to Renaissance Fine Art Supplies looks like a paper airplane. Once you’ve done that, walk down High St. to the Alexander Hamilton sculpture and enjoy boutique shopping. Once you’re riding again, make sure to look backwards at the city’s beautiful mural as you approach the Greater Hamilton Chamber of Commerce. You’ll wind through Marcum Park, enjoy a splash pad, and end your ride at Municipal Brew Works* (and another sculptural bike rack).
Wheels to Wings Aviation Ride – 20 miles
If you are looking for amazing aviation history, this is the route for you. From WACO Air Museum in Troy to the Wright Cycle Company and Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park (20 miles), this route on the Great Miami River Recreational Trail stretches through beautiful countryside and under large shade trees. Before you head back north on your return trip, make sure to stop for a bite to eat at Texas Beef and Cattle Company located just across the street from the National Historical Park.
Pedals and Pals Ride* – 10 miles
Whether it’s through a craft brew or boutique shopping, this ride is all about our local culture. Visit Miamisburg’s historic Main Street for boutique shopping and then take a ride over to the Second Street Brewery District*. You’ll notice many stores with Bicycle Friendly designations. After that, hop on the Great Miami River Recreational Trail at Riverfront Park and ride to Carillon Historical Park in Dayton (10.59 miles). Eat at Culp’s Café or enjoy a refreshing cold drink at the only brewery located in a museum. Learn about the region’s history and climb the Brethren Tower before heading back south. Keep your eye out for eagles soaring overhead!
Weekend Century Ride – 96 miles
Here is a ride for cyclists ready for a century challenge. Each length of this trip is 96 miles long and takes you through historic downtowns while you meander through forests along the Great Miami River. We recommend you stop and rest at Rotary Park in Hamilton, spend a few hours exploring in the Dayton Art Institute, and definitely grab a piece of pie at The Spot in Sidney. If you are looking to spend the night before you head back to Hamilton, visit the Riverway’s ‘places to stay’ page for suggestions. Most of this route is located on the Great Miami River Recreational Trail.
*Please remember that cycling under the influence is a criminal offense. Please cycle and drink responsibly!
Link: Dayton Bike Share Plans for 2021 Expansion
Link: Dayton Bike Share is planning to expand its network of bike hubs to two Dayton neighborhoods. The Huffman Historic Area and Carillon neighborhoods will see hubs installed next spring.
The City of Dayton, who is supporting the expansion, is a critical partner in helping Link connect to neighborhood leadership. “Link: Dayton Bike Share has been an amazing resource for keeping our city active and bike-friendly. I am glad to see this expansion happening in the Carillon and Huffman neighborhoods, and I know it will be a great amenity to our residents,” says Mayor Whaley.
“Bike Miami Valley has spent some time at a few neighborhood meetings now explaining the project and gathering neighborhood input. Our neighbors are looking forward to using the bikes on the Great Miami River Trail and connecting to the restaurants on Brown Street,” said Carillon Neighborhood President Gwen Buchanan.
Link: Dayton Bike Share recently evolved to a hub-based system this past summer that uses the Link Dayton app to access the fleet of Green Link bikes and electric eLink bikes. “One of the goals of this evolution was to make it less capital intensive for Link to expand,” says Laura Estandia, Executive Director of Bike Miami Valley. “We are thrilled to be bringing bike share to more Dayton neighborhoods as a result of this change.”
Exact locations in both neighborhoods are still in the planning phases. “The Huffman Historic Area has been experiencing such exciting reinvestment and revitalization, and the decision to add a new Link hub within or boundaries is just one more fantastic element to continue that excitement,” says neighborhood President Matt Jahn. “It not only adds an amenity to our residents but helps better connect Huffman, its neighbors, and businesses to Downtown in a responsible and sustainable way. We can’t wait to have the Link hub finalized and support its use.”
7th Annual Bike the Boro
7th Annual Bike the Boro features 2-, 10- and 16-mile rides, giving cyclists of all ages and levels the opportunity to ride throughout the City. All rides start at 10 a.m.
Bicycle and helmet giveaways, helmet fittings along with exhibitors including bike shops and bicycle education. Social distancing and facial coverings required in vendor area.
This is a free event, however, registration for t-shirt is encouraged. Course maps and registration are available at ci.springboro.oh.us.
eLINK Bikes Are Back!
We are happy to announce that the eLink bikes are being put back out into service today! To celebrate add the promo code link to the Coupons and Credits screen on the app and you will receive 5 trips of 15 minutes FREE! Remember, you have to have the Link Dayton App to check out the bikes, be sure to get it HERE
What is an e-bike?
An e-bike is a bicycle with an integrated electric motor. Our e-bikes will assist a user up to 15mph. You must pedal to get a benefit from the motor. The e-bikes have a range of up to 30 miles on a full charge!
What is riding an e-bike like?
It’s just like riding a bicycle! But with a booster to keep you riding longer and farther.
How much does it cost to rent a bike?
They offer several different pricing options to meet your needs! You can always check our social media or sign up for our newsletter to learn about periodic special offers and discounts.
PayGo – $1 to unlock
eLink: 15¢ per minute
Green Link: 10¢ per minute
Day Pass
eLink: $15 for 4 hours of ride time (15¢ per minute > 4 hours)
GreenLink: $8 for 4 hours of ride time (10¢ per minute > 4 hours)
90 Day Membership – $26
eLink: 10¢ per minute
Green Link: for 80 minutes of ride time per day, 5¢ per minute over included time
Annual Membership – $90
eLinks: 10¢ per minute
Green Link: 80 minutes of ride time per day, 5¢ per minute over included time
Tomfoolery Outdoors Spooky Brew Bike Tour
Tired of lame Halloween plans? Well Tomfoolery Outdoors Outdoors has a solution for you! Costumes, craft beer and bikes! Is there a better way to celebrate Halloween than a costume bike ride and Dayton pub tour. Decorate your bike and dust off your favorite costume because we are taking over Halloween in Dayton by bicycle.
Try Mountain Biking For Free
Want to try mountain biking but don’t have a bike? If so, come out to MoMBA and borrow one of our bikes. Bikes are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Toddler to adult sizes available.
Riders younger than 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Helmets are required and are provided with the bike.
Mike’s Big Ol’ Bike Ride: Oregon District
Join us on Friday, July 12 as we kickoff Mike’s anniversary weekend with a leisurely 5-mile bike ride through Dayton’s beautiful Oregon Historic District! Open to all skill levels, this is a great chance to get out with some friends and ride your city. Riding is free, riding is fun – come on out!
6:30pm – meet at Mike’s Bike Park (1300 E 1st St, Dayton, OH)
7pm – pedals down
7:45pm – back for the after party to 9pm
The after party will have free burgers and hot dogs with local beer available for purchase.
Mike’s Big Ol’ Bike Rides are on the Friday before each month’s Block Party, including Mike’s Block Party – July!
Interested in reaching riders of the Greater Miami Valley? Sponsor Mike’s Big Ol’ Bike Rides – email us at [email protected] for more information.
Link B2B Challenge Kicks off July 1st
This summer Link is hosting the B2B Challenge! The winning business will take home the Link B2B Challenge Trophy!
Points will be awarded by dividing the number of trips taken by the number of employees participating.
Sign your business up, then encourage your co-workers to sign up and ride! We will be having mini-challenges along the way to award more points.
2019 National Bike to Work Day Pancake Breakfast
oin nearly 600 other cycling enthusiasts for tasty pancakes, friends and music at the region’s largest celebration of biking as a means of transportation in the Miami Valley presented by Miami Valley Regional Planning Commission!
Pre-register through May 16 at https://www.metroparks.org/bike-month/bike-work-day-pre-registration/
While you’re here you can mingle with bike related exhibitors, tour the Bike Hub, enter the team challenge to win sweet prizes, commemorate your ride at our photo booth or just enjoy a cup of coffee after an invigorating morning ride.
To see the morning schedule, find trail information and more please visit:
https://www.metroparks.org/bike-month/bike-to-work-day/
Team Rubi Ride at Rinse Cyle Dayton
Join Mark Brewer and Kristine Hofstra, TEAM RUBI, in the mission is to see an end to HIV and AIDS, and end to discrimination, and an end to intolerance and injustice. Mark and Kristine will be participating in AIDS/LifeCycle, a 545-mile bike ride from San Francisco to Los Angeles to raise funds for the life-saving services offered by San Francisco AIDS Foundation and the Los Angeles LGBT Center taking place June 5th to the 8th.
Tour de Donut
For its third year in Troy, the Tour de Donut ride will once again start and end around the square of historic downtown Troy on Saturday, August 24, 2019.
Last year’s event in Troy brought in 2700 riders, the largest participation number to date. Being Ohio’s largest one-day bicycle event, 2018 cyclists traveled to the Tour de Donut from 28 states and Canada.
For 2019, the Tour de Donut once again welcomes Be The Match as their official charity partner. For the runners/walkers out there, Be The Match invites you to participate in the Buckeye Donut Dash. This 5k will begin in downtown Troy at 8:30am on Saturday, August 24, 2019 running simultaneously with the Tour de Donut. The Buckeye Donut Dash raises funds to help patients in need of a bone marrow transplant. With your support in fundraising, you help more patients afford transplants, add potential marrow donors to the Be The Match Registry and make more life-saving research possible.
The Tour de Donut is a unique bicycle event in which participants’ ability to eat donuts is just as important as their ability to ride their bicycle. During this timed bicycle event, riders visit donut stops along the course. For each donut the rider will eat (and keeps down), five minutes will be deducted from their ride time. The Glazer, a special donut stop, will return by popular demand. Each donut eaten at this stop is worth a ten minute deduction in ride time. A competition will be held between area donut shops during the Troy Strawberry Festival in June to choose the coveted special glazer donut.
Traditionally there have been three distances offered for the Tour de Donut, 16, 32, & 64 miles, but in 2019, an additional distance will be introduced. A 10-mile ride on the bike path will be offered for those beginners or young riders who want to participate, but do not feel comfortable riding on the road with other riders due to car traffic.
The Donut Mini will return with one donut stop. The Full will offer two donut stops. And, for the experienced cyclist, the Double D Challenge will have three donut stops. New this year, the winner of each category for each ride will receive a Championship Jersey compliments of Kettering Health Network.
A free children’s bike ride will take place at 8 a.m. on N. Market Street. Anyone interested can register the day of the event at The Rec parking lot in downtown Troy. All children participating will receive a free T-shirt, finisher medal and all the donuts and milk they care to eat courtesy of Orthopedic Associates of Southwest Ohio.
Due to packet pickup on Friday, August 24th, an evening event has been designed to welcome riders, runners and residents to this beautiful area. This event, “Donut Jam”, will highlight bands, a donut eating contest, beer and food trucks, many children’s activities and the popular shops and restaurants in downtown Troy.
Saturday’s festivities will begin early with registration starting at 5:30 am. Not to worry, breakfast foods will be available throughout downtown and at food trucks. Everyone will be gearing up for the 8:30 am start of both the Tour de Donut and the Buckeye Donut Dash. More musical entertainment and children’s activities, along with a visit by the Columbus Zoo, will be a delightful way to spend the morning.
Online registration is open for both Cyclists and runners/walkers.
Volunteers are needed in a variety of areas including Tour de Donut set-up, the children’s activities area and beer pouring from 11am – 11pm on Friday, August 23 and from 8am – 2pm on Saturday, August 24. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact the Miami County Visitors Bureau at 937-339-1044.
Link’s Winter Warrior Program Returns!
Join The Great Miami Valley Tweed Ride
Celebrate fall, cycling, and tweed as we sally forth about town simply because it promises to be a smashing good time!
Meet at Riverfront Park for tea and registration, pose for photos, ride south on the bikeway, and return downtown to visit your favorite pub.
Bike with a Ranger Tour – Paul Laurence Dunbar House
Ride the Wolf Creek Trail to the final home of poet and author Paul Laurence Dunbar. See exhibits on Dunbar’s life and works, and tour the home where he lived with his mother Matilda until his death in 1906. This ride is a great way to get comfortable with cycling.
