2011 Austin
Bike Month Guide
May is Bike Month in Austin, including Bike to Work Week and Day and myriad other events, rides, and celebrations. Thanks to the city of Austin, the Austin Cycling Association, and Austin on Two Wheels for information included in this section – including the new map of city bike routes (right).
Some Resources:
The city of Austin's Bike Month information page contains calendars and event information. www.cityofaustin.org/rideyourbike
The Neighborhood Connectivity Division of the Public Works Department represents the city of Austin's bicycle program. www.cityofaustin.org/bicycle
Commute Solutions, a collaborative partnership sponsored by the Capital Area Metropolitan Planning Organization, offers a wide variety of commuter resources. www.commutesolutions.com
Austin on Two Wheels compiles a ton of information of all kinds (including some 345 bike events for the month of May alone). www.austinontwowheels.com
MAY BIKE EVENTS & RIDES
Jump to: Selected Weekly Events | Monthly Events | Calendar of Bike Rides | Austin Bike Shops
2011 Mellow Johnny's Classic at Juan Pelota Ranch
Sunday, May 1, 6:30am-4pm
Juan Pelota Ranch, Dripping Springs
This race at Lance Armstrong's ranch near Dripping Springs has become the biggest mountain bike race in Texas. It's part of USA Cycling's Pro XCT and is one of the largest in the United States.
Pfinally Pflugerville
Sunday, May 1, 8am
The ride routes are 14, 19, 25, 48, and 63 miles long and meander through flat to slightly rolling farmland. Rides start in the Hendrickson High School parking lot.
Second Annual Community Garden Tour
Sunday, May 1, 10am-4pm
Join the Coalition of Austin Community Gardens, the Sustainable Food Center, and the Congress for the New Urbanism in celebrating the growing number of community gardens in our city at the second annual Austin Community Garden Tour – a free, open house tour providing the opportunity to visit each of these unique places, talk to the gardeners, learn how to get involved, and maybe even be inspired to start your own. Join in to celebrate these community spaces for locally grown (and self-grown!) food in Austin. More info at www.communitygardensaustin.org.
Dripping Springs to Johnson City
Sunday, May 1, 8am
Intermediate-level rides of 26 and 52 miles follow back roads through the undulating Hill Country landscape to Johnson City. Meet at the Dripping Springs ISD Administration Building, located on the north side of Highway 290, about 3/10 of a mile west of the traffic light at Highway 12.
Bike to UT Day
Wednesday, May 4
University of Texas at Austin
Contact UT Bike Coordinator Sam Cortez for more info: cortez@austin.utexas.edu.
Intro to Tri Clinic presented by Team in Training
Thursday, May 5, 6:30pm
Jack & Adam's Bicycles, 1210 Barton Springs Rd.
Can't swim? No bike? Doesn't matter! Come to Jack & Adam's Bicycles on Thursday for the Intro to Tri Clinic.
Bicycle Print Show
Thursday, May 5, opening reception 6-9pm
Gallery Black Lagoon, 4301-A Guadalupe
This monthlong exhibit, organized and curated by Poster Cabaret, features more than 60 art prints inspired by the bicycle.
Bike to School Day
Friday, May 6
Take two wheels to class.
Austin Bike Poster Show
Friday, May 6, opening reception 7-9pm
The Frame Corner, 5601 Adams
The Austin Bike Poster Show 2011 is on and this year will be even better than last. The show runs from May 6 to June 5. The opening event is on Friday, May 6, at which you can enjoy beer, barbecue, and music. Additionally, the 20 posters selected for the show will be on display in the atrium outside City Council chambers May 16-20.
Shiner G.A.S.P. Charity Bicycle Ride
Saturday, May 7, 6:30am-4pm
Met Center 10, 7551 Metro Center Dr.
Join Central Texas cyclists for this traditional 100-mile bicycle ride from Austin to the Spoetzl Brewery in Shiner, Texas. Registered participants can spend the afternoon in Shiner enjoying complimentary food and plenty of free, cold Shiner beer! Spoetzl Brewery Tours run 1-4pm. www.shiner.com/shinergasp.
Ladies Army III, Women's Bike Polo Tournament
Saturday-Sunday, May 7-8
South Austin Recreation Center, 1100 Cumberland
The Austin Texas Bike Polo Social Club hosts Ladies Army III, an international women's bike polo tournament. www.leagueofbikepolo.com/ladiesarmy3.
Bike-in Book Swap
Saturday, May 7, noon-4pm
Twin Oaks Branch Library, 1800 S. Fifth
The Austin Public Library and the Yellow Bike Project team up to host this second annual book swap: Enjoy food, crafts, demos, workshops, and a huge book swap in honor of Austin's 2011 Bike Month theme, "Austin Bright Cyclists: Be Bright, Be Seen, Be Flashy." Bring your bike, bring your books, and bring the kids to celebrate National Bike Month, Austin style!
Skeese Greets Women's Triathlon
Sunday, May 8, 6am; race starts at 8am
Texas Ski Ranch, 6700 N. I-35, New Braunfels
This short early-season event is perfect for a beginner to test the waters or an intermediate to advanced triathlete to get warmed up for the season to come. The Texas Ski Ranch is a great location that is safe and participant and spectator friendly. Come join us for an outstanding event, then relax on the beach with food and music. The triathlon includes a 300-meter swim, an 11.1-mile ride, and 2-mile run. More info at www.skeesegreetstri.com.
Armadillo Hill Country Classic
Saturday, May 14, 6am-5pm; race starts at 8am
Liberty Hill High School, 13125 Hwy. 29 W., Liberty Hill
Enjoy one of seven different courses that wander through the Texas Hill Country and the National Wildlife Refuge. See quaint towns like Bertram and Burnet. Enjoy the beautiful rolling scenery, get in a great ride, and do something good for the Austin cycling community at the same time. The ride benefits the Austin Cycling Association.
Columbia Muddy Buddy Austin
Saturday, May 14, 8am
Flat Creek Crossing Ranch, CR 201 & Ulrich Road, Johnson City
The total distance of the team course is about six miles. Each partner will complete the entire course by running about three miles and biking three miles. One partner runs while the other bikes; you switch tasks at each obstacle/transition area. The person biking will reach the obstacle, drop the bike in the designated area, complete the obstacle, then begin running. The runner will then arrive, complete the obstacle, find the bike, and begin biking. Obstacles in past events have included a cargo net crawl or climb, a low wall, and hay bales. Teams will have to conquer the infamous Mud Pit before crossing the finish line together as muddy buddies! More info at www.muddybuddy.com.
Yellow Bike Project Birthday
Saturday, May 14, 4pm-12mid; 1216 Webberville Rd.
The Yellow Bike Project is celebrating its 14th birthday with a party in the shop – giving away 50 children's bikes to the first 50 kids who come to the party, as well as raffling off a sweet bright-yellow cargo bike built by a local bicycle-building extraordinaire from the Austin Bike Zoo. Raffle tickets are $10 each. The party will include family-friendly contra dancing early in the evening with bike polo debuting in the shop that night. Austin Bike Zoo will also make an appearance. Several local bands will play into the late evening hours. Beer and food will be provided – and donations are always appreciated.
Ranger Triathlon
Sunday, May 15, 9-11am
Texas School for the Deaf, 1102 S. Congress
The Texas School for the Deaf and Jack & Adam's Bicycles are proud to present the second annual Ranger Triathlon, a USAT-sanctioned event that benefits the Texas School for the Deaf's physical education programs. The purpose is to offer kids ages 7 years and older as well as "first-time adults" the opportunity to experience a multisport event in a safe and positive environment. While competition is always part of any race, it is not the primary focus of this race. The main focus is to have fun! Ages 7-10: 100-meter swim, 2.2-mile ride, half-mile run. Ages 11-14: 200-meter swim, 5.5-mile ride, one-mile run. Adults (15 and older): 200-meter swim, 5.5-mile ride, two-mile run. For more info or to register visit www.rangertri.com.
Bike to Work Week
May 16-20, nationwide
Celebrate life by biking to work every day this week, or as many days of the week that you can. Get tips and help from the city by contacting the Bicycle Program at nadia.barrera@ci.austin.tx.us.
Bike Posters Displayed at City Hall
May 16-20
(See Friday, May 6, for more info.)
Bike to Work Day
Friday, May 20, 7-9am
As always, it's the third Friday in the month of May. Snag free breakfasts courtesy of various bike shops, plus City Hall, Wheatsville Co-op, Whole Foods, El Chilito, and many others. See more info on the centerfold map.
Real Ale Ride
Saturday, May 21, 6am-3pm; ride starts at 8am
Real Ale Brewery, Blanco
This favorite Bicycle Sport Shop ride rolls through the scenic hills of Blanco and includes route distances of 15, 30, 50, 65, and 80 miles. All routes are fully supported and end at Blanco's Real Ale brewery for a celebration of local beer and barbecue. To register and get more info, visit www.realaleride.com. The $60 registration fee includes a fully supported route, parking at the brewery, lunch, live entertainment, brewery tours, a ride T-shirt, and a whole lot of fun.
Rockin' R Toobin' Triathlon
Saturday, May 21, 7:30am
Rockin' R River Rides, 1405 Gruene Rd., Gruene
This triathlon begins at the Rockin' R located on the beautiful Guadalupe River in the quaint town of Gruene. The 400-meter swim is an out-and-back river swim. The 12-mile course is an out-and-back course on lightly traveled roads. The 3.3-mile run is a one-loop course on pavement in the city of Gruene – mainly on country roads with gently rolling hills. There will be five sheriff deputies at intersections and main turns. Drafting is illegal and will not be tolerated. Be aware that the roads are open to traffic. Special camping rates and tubing discounts are available for participants. For more info and to register, see www.redemptionrp.com/RockinRTri2011.
Mystery Meat Road Race
Saturday, May 21
Location TBA, Austin
More info coming soon at www.txbra.org/events/event.asp?EventID=2155.
2011 Texas State Championship Adventure Race
Saturday, May 21
Camp Longhorn at Indian Springs, Burnet
Events include an approximately three-mile trail run, a seven-to-14-mile mountain bike ride, half-hour canoe, and mystery events. The races are designed to take two to two-and-a-half hours on average. More info and registration at www.terrafirmapromo.com/view.asp?id=29.
6th Annual Belterra Hill Country Classic
Saturday, May 21, 8am
Rooster Springs Elementary, 1001 Belterra Dr., Dripping Springs
This Texas State Cup Event is held on a two-mile loop. The course surface is smooth asphalt and features one long, gradual hill and one small kicker of a hill. Various distances and categories, including juniors; more info at www.hollandracing.org.
Texas Toast Jam
Friday-Sunday, May 27-29 East Side Drive-In, 1001 E. Sixth
This pro-level BMX contest will host the best riders in the world on some of the most unique obstacles ever created. There will be dirt jumping, street events, minicontests (like bunny-hop high jump and rail jam), and even a Gauntlet of Death obstacle course – plus bands, food, and drinks on-site, afterparties, a video premiere, and fun for everyone! www.odysseybmx.com/fairdale.
FrankenBike #70
Saturday, May 28, 10am-4pm
BikeTexas, 1902 E. Sixth
Austin's monthly free bike swap returns. If you've got bike stuff to sell or trade, just show up with a table or blanket to hawk your wares. More info at www.frankenbike.net.
Capital of Texas Triathlon
Monday, May 30, Auditorium Shores
Triathlon racing Memorial weekend Downtown. Olympic Triathlon: swim 1,500 meters; bike 24.9 miles; run 6.2 miles. Sprint: swim ½ mile; bike 12.4 miles; run 3.1 miles. Tri First-timers: swim 400 meters; bike 6.2 miles; run 3.1 miles. More info: www.captextri.com.
SEVEN DAYS A WEEK: SELECTED WEEKLY EVENTS
Jump to: May Bike Events & Rides | Monthly Events | Calendar of Bike Rides | Austin Bike Shops
SUNDAYS
Southwest CycleSport Sunday Road Ride
8-11am; Southwest CycleSport, 11701 Bee Cave Rd.
A 40-50 mile ride at a moderate pace, sponsored by Southwest CycleSport and leaving from the shop. More info at www.southwestcyclesport.com.
Cream Cheese Ride
8am-noon; Einstein Bros. Bagels, 1465 E. Whitestone (RR 1431), Cedar Park
The Cream Cheese Ride is a fairly fast-tempo road ride, consistently averaging over 18 mph. It's definitely not for recreational cyclists, as most participants race regularly in Category 3 and 4 fields. Distance is usually 60 miles on country roads north of Cedar Park and in the areas around Florence, Andice, Bertram, and Liberty Hill. Group size is usually about 12 riders. During December, January, and February, the ride departs at noon. Contact: Jason Newman, jason@jasonnewman.net.
Sunday Mellow Ride
8:30-11:30am; Mellow Johnny's, 400 Nueces
Mellow Johnny's Sunday road ride is a two- to three-hour ride at a brisk, social pace (17-18 mph). More info at www.mellowjohnnys.com.
Capital City BMX Weekly Race Series
1-5pm, Capital City BMX, 15010 RR 620 N.
Opened in November 2008, Capital City BMX offers you a chance to learn about and race BMX. BMX races are held every Sunday (rider check-in 1-2pm). $10 per rider. Practice racing is available on Mondays and Fridays, 6-8pm, for $3 per rider. More info at www.capcitybmx.com.
Austin Ridge Riders Sunday Ride
9:30am; Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park, 12138 N. Lamar
This Austin Ridge Riders Sunday ride is appropriate for all levels of bikers. Beginners are welcome, and there will be no drops. Meet in the parking lot by the swimming pool; bikers will be divided into groups according to ability. The route will make it easy for anyone to get back to the parking lot via freeways. Helmets are required, along with a bike in good working order. More info at www.austinridgeriders.com/events.htm.
MONDAYS
Mellow Johnny's Ladies' Ride
5:30pm; Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop, 400 Nueces
Starting at 5:30 sharp, this two-hour ride is for ladies only. Join experienced riders from Mellow Johnny's for a friendly and moderately paced social ride (14-16 mph average). Get more comfortable riding in a group, learn tips and tricks, and meet other like-minded cyclists. Stay afterward for Champagne and strawberries at Royal Blue Grocery across the street! Some things to keep in mind before meeting up for this ride: Have a road bike in good working condition, bring a helmet, wear cycling clothing, bring plenty of water, and be sure you're able to ride comfortably for two hours without stopping. Find more info at www.mellowjohnnys.com/2011.
Nelo's Cycles Weekday Ride
Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays, 7pm; Nelo's Cycles, 8108 Mesa Ste. B-105
Riders leave from the shop at 7pm on a 20-mile loop around Northwest Austin, traveling parts of Steck Avenue, Spicewood Springs, Loop 360, Jollyville Road, Great Hills Trail, and Mesa Drive, and ending at the shop. Visit www.neloscycles.com/specials.php for a complete route.
TUESDAYS
Tuesday Morning Blazing Saddle Ride
7-10am; Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop, 400 Nueces
Join Mellow Johnny's and the 787 Racing team for a blazing fast morning road ride. Meet at the shop for a 7am-sharp rollout. This ride is for the cyclist who wants to put in some fast miles before heading off to work. This is not a "no drop" ride – the pace averages above 22 mph (including hills) and routes vary. If you can't keep up, you may find yourself rolling solo. General group ride expectations include having a helmet, a road bike in good working condition, water and food, flat-changing tools, and bike lights; no headphones are permitted. Participants are encouraged to arrive via bike, but those who drive should park on the street. Find more info at www.mellowjohnnys.com.
Tuesday Morning Ride by Social Cycling Austin
8-10am; start locations vary
Latest new ride of Social Cycling Austin meets at 8am, wheels down at 8:30am from a different coffee shop each week. Slightly faster than a social pace ride and will often stop for breakfast after the ride. More info at www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=56122823659.
Orange Bike Project Shop Hours
5-8pm; Orance Bike Project Bike Cage, UT campus, Guadalupe Parking Garage, 16th & San Antonio
The Orange Bike Project has shop hours during the week at which volunteers fix up bikes to be used by students throughout the semester. The OBP Bike Cage is on the ground floor of the garage in the southeast corner. The car entrance to the garage is on 17th Street Entrance is free for the first half hour. Metered on-street parking is available on San Antonio Street Orange Bike Project is a subcommittee of the Campus Environmental Center at the University of Texas that provides students with more sustainable choices for transportation. Its enthusiastic volunteers are given access to used bikes, tools, and a space in which to work. Through the program, students are able to "check out" bikes as they would library books and are free to keep the bike for the entire semester. This allows many students to make bikes their primary mode of transportation. More info at www.utenvironment.org/orangebike.
Tuesday Night Bike Polo Match
5:30pm; Joslin Park, 4500 Manchaca Rd.
The Austin Texas Bike Polo Social Club brings its matches to South Austin on Tuesday nights. Find more info at www.atxbpsc.blogspot.com.
The Outlaw Race: Tuesday Nighter
5:30pm; Intersection of SE 45 toll road and North Turnersville, Pflugerville
This is a harder, hillier course with one section of baaaaddddd road. Have fun and keep the rubber side down.
WEDNESDAYS
Hump Day Nooner Ride
Noon; Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, Lady Bird Lake
This ride with Social Cycling Austin is a medium-paced ride for the those who can make it out during the work week. A few stops for coffee and lunch are included. All levels are welcome. Hey, this is a benefit of being "funemployed," right? Meet at the bridge a little shy of noon to get to know your fellow riders, and ride out shortly after.
Bike Maintenance and Flat-Repair Classes
6pm; Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop, 400 Nueces
Get your hands dirty on Wednesdays while learning how to keep your bike rollin'. Learn how to fix a flat tire and add life to your bike with simple maintenance and repairs. RSVP to chuck@mellowjohnnys.com if you plan to attend. Classes fill up quickly, so hurry to get your name on the list! Find more info at www.mellowjohnnys.com.
Gears for Beers Happy Hour
5-9pm; Club de Ville, 900 Red River
Every Wednesday from 5 to 9pm, Club de Ville hosts "Gears for Beers." Ride your bike there and get $3 imperial pints and $3 well drinks.
THURSDAYS
Pure Austin Fitness Driveway Series
Driveway Austin Motorsports, 8400 Delwau Lane
The longest-running crit series in the U.S. (which takes place during daylight saving time, roughly from March to October) returns to Austin for another season. Road races take place on the closed, car-free driving course. Weekly races for women, men, and juniors run from 5pm to 7:55pm. Entry costs $20 for men, $15 for women, and $10 for juniors or students. Full season passes and discount punch cards are available. A USA Cycling license and helmet are required for all events. Find a full schedule of weekly races at www.drivewayseries.com.
Thursday Night Bike Polo
5pm; Eastwoods Park, 3001 Harris Park Ave.
The Austin Texas Bike Polo Social Club has added another weekly match. All bikes and skill levels are welcome, and spare mallets and balls are available if you don't have any. Visit www.facebook.com/pages/Austin-Texas-Bike-Polo-Social-Club/139846364293.
Bicycle Sport Shop Maintenance Class
6-7pm; BSS North, 10947 Research; BSS Central, 517 S. Lamar
This class is free and open to everyone. Learn how to do a pre-ride bicycle check, along with crucial skills like proper tire inflation, flat tire repair, removal and installation of wheels, removal and installation of tires, and chain lubrication and cleaning. Seating is limited to 10 at the Reasearch Boulevard location. Seats are given on a first-come, first-seated basis. Check out the details and a list of other classes at www.bicyclesportshop.com.
Thursday Night Social Ride
7pm; Plaza Saltillo, Comal & E. Fifth
Social Cycling Austin hosts a weekly ride with routes changing weekly. The final stop usually involves some complimentary Lone Star. Hell yes. Check www.socialcyclingatx.com for updates.
FRIDAYS
Truancy Friday Ride
2:30pm-4:30pm; Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop, 400 Nueces
Feeling like a rebel? Need to get away? How about a nice ride to help make the work blues disappear? Joining Mellow Johnny's for the Friday Truancy Ride will do the trick. This coed, no drop ride is a great way to ease out of a long work week. Riders meet at the shop at 2pm and hit the road at 2:30pm. A socially paced, 30-mile road ride through neighborhoods and official bike routes takes you through a minimum of busier roadways. Expect a 15 mph average pace with a few hills and optional sprints. Helmets, as always, are required. Contact erin@mellowjohnnys.com for information or questions.
Fast Fridays Ride
7:30-10pm; Pfluger Pedestrian Bridge, Lady Bird Lake
It doesn't matter whether you're a fixie queen or the proud rider of a janky mountain bike – the Fast Friday crew is enthused to have your company. Two hours of hard pedaling are followed with laidback socializing.
SATURDAYS
Violet Crown Bagel Ride
7:30am-12:30pm; Einstein Brother's Bagels, 12400 N. I-35
This Violet Crown cycling club ride normally has two groups, a 50-mile group and an 80-mile group. Maps are only included when the group joins an Austin Cycling Association ride, so plan to keep up. A note on pace: You should be fit to ride at 18 mph for nearly three hours when joining this ride. Typically, rides cover between 50 and 80 miles at 18-22 mph during warmer weather. Don't let those bagels slow you down is what we're trying to say. Full details are available at www.violetcrown.org.
Southwest CycleSport Saturday Road Ride
7:30-9:30am; Southwest CycleSport, 11701 Bee Cave Rd.
This 30-mile ride leaves from Southwest CycleSport. Expect a moderate pace. View the full route and more at www.southwestcyclesport.com.
Yellow Bike Project at the Austin Farmers' Market
9am-1pm; Austin Farmers' Market, Fourth & Guadalupe
The Austin Yellow Bike Project occupies a booth at Austin's weekly Farmers' Market Downtown. Bicycle repair tools are available, along with the occasional informal class. Stop by to wrench on your bike, buy a T-shirt, or chat up the Yellow Bike mavens.
MONTHLY EVENTS
Jump to: May Bike Events & Rides | Selected Weekly Events | Calendar of Bike Rides | Austin Bike Shops
Fabulous Fixed First Friday Alleycat Races
First Friday of every month, 6:30-9:30pm; state Capitol
An informal in-town race and scavenger hunt, alleycat races are a blast and not to be missed. Bring $5, a bag, and a fixed gear bike to race; come and cheer even if you don't plan to tear it up.
Austin Critical Mass Ride
Last Friday of every month, 5pm; UT campus, West Mall between 22nd & 23rd
This bike-jamming ride is designed to shout to the world that bikes belong. You never know what will happen, but don't miss this foundation of the Austin bike culture as we know it today.
A CALENDAR OF AUSTIN BIKE RIDES
Jump to: May Bike Events & Rides | Selected Weekly Events | Monthly Events | Austin Bike Shops
May 7: Shiner G.A.S.P.
Starting in Austin, cyclists will ride 100 miles through small towns and scenic byways on the way to the historic Spoetzl Brewery in Shiner, Texas. Post-race, riders are provided with food from the Shiner Smokehouse (including vegetarian options). While relaxing and enjoying some ice-cold Shiner beer and Smokehouse food, listen to some great music from Shiner Records musicians among other hot Texas country bands. www.shiner.com/shinergasp.
May 21: Real Ale Ride
Five different ride lengths from 15 to 80 miles all start and end at the Real Ale brewery in Blanco, Texas. Registration includes a fully supported route, parking at the brewery, a smoked sausage and Real Ale beer (or other drink of your choice) for lunch, live entertainment, brewery tours, a ride T-shirt, and a whole lot of fun. www.realaleride.com.
June 4: Texas 4000 ATLAS Ride
The Atlas Ride benefits the Texas 4000, a community of cancer fighters. The riders, all UT students, are the passionate young people at the heart of the organization. They train, fundraise, educate, and bring hope to those with cancer. The ride starts at Running Brushy Middle School in Cedar Park and ends at the Texas Legato winery in Lampasas. Distance options include 25-, 50-, and 70-mile routes, and full SAG, rest stops, and mechanical support will be provided. The post-ride celebration includes barbecue, live music, and more! www.texas4000.org.
Aug. 27: Hotter'N Hell 100
Five routes include lengths from 10K to 100 miles. The Hotter'N Hell weekend includes a consumer show, a spaghetti dinner, a USA Cycling Criterium Race, a USA Cycling Road Race, the Hotter'N Hell Hundred Endurance Ride, an off-road bicycle race, and an off-road trail run as well as entertainment, food, and fellowship at the Finish Line Village. This event is not just one day; it's four days of challenging and inspiring activities. Thursday-Sunday, Aug. 25-28. www.hh100.org.
Oct. 1: Texas Mamma Jamma Ride
This recreational bike ride raises much-needed funds for our Central Texas neighbors coping with breast cancer. The Mamma Jamma Ride welcomes all levels and celebrates all participants. It's a ride for the whole family, with route distances for everyone, and is fully supported by an enthusiastic team of volunteers. www.mammajammaride.org.
Oct. 15-16: Team LiveStrong Challenge
Choose from distances ranging from 20 to 90 miles. At the finish line, each cancer survivor is celebrated with a yellow rose. Afterward, participants and spectators are invited to the post-event party. www.livestrong.org.
Nov. 5-6: Tour de Gruene
This great family ride offers several distance choices; each is scenic, relatively flat, and contains rest stops along the way to replenish your thirst and hunger. Distances of 17, 31, 46, and 64 miles. Enjoy a beautiful bike ride down River Road alongside fellow cyclists who share your love of touring the beautiful countryside, then get back to enjoy the charm and ambience of Gruene – or head for the Wursthalle for the German Festival. www.tourdegruene.com.
Nov. 6: The Wurst Ride in Texas
Riders are treated to a scenic view of rural Texas at the foot of the Texas Hill Country. Five rest stops between Austin and New Braunfels provide plenty of refreshments for all participants, plus there's a post-ride party in New Braunfels. Sausage and beer for everyone (over the age of 21, that is)! www.wurstride.com.
April 2012: Spokes 'n Spurs Ride for the Ranch
Course distances range from 14 to 62.5 miles, plus a six-mile family ride. Riders enjoy beautiful views, gently rolling hills, and the wildlife of the Texas Hill Country. All ages and skill levels are welcome. A post-ride celebration includes lunch, live music, and activities for children. www.spiritreins.org/sns.
April 21-22, 2012: BP MS 150
The BP MS 150 is a two-day fundraising ride organized by the Lone Star Chapter of the National Multiple Sclerosis Society. It's the largest event of its kind in North America. In 2010, 12,000 cyclists raised more than $16 million for multiple sclerosis, and the BP MS 150 has raised more than $131 million since the first ride in 1985! It's a two-day, 180-mile journey from Houston to Austin, with breakpoints positioned every eight to 15 miles. www.ms150.org.
Late April 2012: Hill Country Ride for AIDS
Voted Best Bike Ride in the annual Austin Chronicle "Best of Austin" Readers Poll, this annual cycling event rolls through beautiful Central Texas, starting and ending at Reunion Ranch. Riders and volunteers provide life-saving support for thousands of Central Texans living with HIV/AIDS by raising money for 10 local nonprofit organizations. It's a ride, not a race, and all levels are welcome and celebrated. Choose the distance that best suites you – 13, 27, 53, 70, or 100 miles – all routes are fully supported with helpful volunteers. www.hillcountryride.org.
AUSTIN BIKE SHOPS
Jump to: May Bike Events & Rides | Selected Weekly Events | Monthly Events | Calendar of Bike Rides
1) AJ's Cyclery
10019 W. Parmer (North of 620 at Lakeline), 351-3179
2) Alchemy Bicycle Company
209 E. Ben White Ste. 100B, 443-2900
3) Alien Scooters
1122-B S. Lamar, 447-4220
4) Arrowhead Bicycles
402 Old Hwy. 81 S., Kyle, 512/268-2600
5) Austin Bike Farm
6516 Shirley Ave., 419-1911
6) Austin Bikes
1213 W. Fifth, 468-9557
7) ATX Bikes
5000 W. Slaughter Ste. B-201, 282-0400
8) Austin Tricyclist
923 Barton Springs Rd., 494-9252
9) Barton Springs Bike Rentals
1529 Barton Springs Rd. #31, 480-0200
1707 Barton Springs Rd., 614-4676
10) Bicycle Sport Shop – Central
517 S. Lamar, 477-3472
11) Bicycle Sport Shop – North
10947 Research, 345-7460
12) Bicycle Sport Shop – Parmer Lane
9900 W. Parmer, 637-6890
13) Bobby's Bikes
3315 Hancock, 947-1339
14) Buck's Bikes
12530 Research, 250-9550
15) Castle Hill Cycles/Biciclette Italiane
1112-B N. Lamar, 524-2064, 478-4567
16) Clown Dog Bikes
2821 San Jacinto, 477-4221
17) Cycle Progression
2026 S. Lamar, 447-7764
18) Eastside Pedal Pusher
1414 E. Fifth
19) Easy Street Recumbents
5555 N. Lamar, 453-0438
20) Empire BMX
1114 W. Fifth, 474-4BMX
21) Fast Folks
1105 E. Sixth, 524-8260
22) Freewheeling
2401 San Gabriel, 473-8700
23) Hammerhead Bicycles
6706 Burnet Rd., 331-2002
24) Jack & Adam's Bicycles
1210 Barton Springs Rd., 472-5646
25) Longhorn Bikes
2308 E. Cesar Chavez, 542-9505
26) Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop
400 Nueces, 473-0222
27) Music City Cycles
7212 McNeil #201, 336-BIKE
28) Nelo's Cycle Shop
8108 Mesa Ste. B-105, 338-0505
29) Ozone Bike Department
3202-C Guadalupe, 302-1164
30) Peddler Bike Shop
5015 Duval Rd., 220-6766
31) Performance Bicycle North Austin
2900 W. Anderson #3, 879-9500
32) Performance Bicycle South
4040 S. Lamar (Brodie Oaks Shopping Center), 879-9570
33) Pro Cycle Works
2525 S. Lamar #14, 391-0626
34) REI Downtown
601 N. Lamar, 482-3357
35) REI Northwest Austin
9901 N. Capital of TX Hwy. #200, 343-5550
36) REI Round Rock
201 University Oaks Blvd #1100; 255-1938
37) Southside Bicycle Shop
2210-M S. First, 916-4422
38) Southwest Cycle Sport
11805 Bee Caves Rd., 263-5107
39) Sun & Ski Sport
2438 W. Anderson, 467-2782
40) Texas Cycle Werks
5300 MoPac S. #501, 892-BIKE
41) Tsunami Cycles
2114½ S. Congress, 448-9725
42) University Cyclery
2901 N. Lamar, 474-6696
43) Waterloo Cycles
2815 Fruth, 47-CYCLE
