What to Know before a Bicycle Fun Club Ride
Equipment
Properly fitted helmets are strongly recommended and are required by law in some of the communities in which we ride. Please bring at least one full water bottle or hydration pack. Additional items that are helpful and easily stowed in a jersey pocket or seat bag are a spare tube, a set of tire levers, and a small pump or CO2 cartridge. Tire changing tools and a multi-tool that fits your bike come in handy and can get you back on the ride without waiting for a SAG vehicle. However, you may take our rides without any special equipment; just be sure your bike is in safe working order. Trailers and trail-a-bikes for kids are welcome, but please, no training wheels.
SAG
Trailnet SAG (Support and Gear) vans cruise the routes until 3:00 p.m. unless otherwise noted. Vans are equipped with basic first aid, hydration, nutrition, and tools for minor repairs. Phone 314.913.BIKE (2453) if you need assistance.
Maps and Arrows
Maps are offered at ride registration and show route options, towns, attractions, and rest stops. Look for the pink arrows and dots on the pavement to show you which way to go. Maps are not available ahead of time. Map preparation is time-intensive and our maps are created for an event experience. ROUTES BFC rides are predominantly on roads; prepare to share with motorized traffic. Most rides start on the short route and the longer routes branch out from there. The longest route is designed for experienced riders and may have more hills or be routed on more heavily trafficked roads.
Terrain
- Flat – very few small hills
- Rolling – frequent small hills
- Moderate – a mix of hills, just a few steep
- Big – some hills over 150 feet
- Very hilly – many hills over 150 feet
Registration
Preregistration is available online at trailnet.org or you can register at the starting location on the day of most BFC rides (exceptions are noted). Online registration closes two days prior to the ride. Preregistered riders need to check in at the ride start to get their map and wrist band. Advanced registration for the Ride the Rivers Century Ride is recommended.
Wrist Bands
Wrist bands will be distributed to all registered riders and will be checked throughout the ride at rest stops and by SAG drivers. Riders without wristbands using the rest stop or seeking assistance during the ride will be charged $20.
Price
Online registration price for most rides is $8 for Trailnet members and $13 for nonmembers. Day of ride price for most rides is $10 for Trailnet members and $15 for nonmembers. Children under 10 riding with an adult are $3. Visit participating bike shop sponsors for a free coupon good for $3 off the ride. Coupons are limited, available beginning March 10 and while supplies last.
Group Rides
Before most BFC rides there is a “no-drop” group ride on the short route that starts at 8:30 a.m.