BFC FAQs
WHAT EQUIPMENT SHOULD I HAVE FOR A BFC RIDE?
- Properly fitted helmets are strongly recommended and are required by law in some of the communities in which we ride.
- Bring at least one full water bottle or hydration pack.
- Be sure that your bike is in safe working order. Trailers and trail-a-bikes for kids are welcome, but please, no training wheels.
- 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 support vehicle.
WHAT SHOULD I WEAR?
- Special clothing is not required but can make the ride experience more pleasant.
- Padded shorts will alleviate pain in the rear and wicking garments will prevent overheating.
- Wear or bring sunscreen.
WHAT KIND OF SUPPORT WILL BE AVAILABLE TO RIDERS?
- Most BFC rides include a “no-drop” Group Ride on the short route that starts at 8:30 a.m. The Group Ride is for new riders or riders who would like to have an experienced leader.
- 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.
HOW DO I KNOW THE ROUTE FOR THE RIDE?
- Route maps are not available until the day of the ride. Map preparation is time-intensive and our maps are created for an event experience.
- Maps are available at ride registration and show route options, towns, attractions, and rest stops
- In addition to the route map, pink arrows and dots on the pavement will direct you.
WHAT ARE THE ROUTES LIKE?
- 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, with some steep climbs
- Big – some hills over 150 feet
- Very hilly – many hills over 150 feet
HOW DO I REGISTER FOR A BFC RIDE?
- Preregistration is available online at trailnet.org or you can register at the start location on the day of most BFC rides (exceptions are noted on the website). Online registration closes two days prior to the ride. Preregistration for the Ride the Rivers Century Ride is recommended.
- Many rides have a “happy hour” at the sponsoring bike shop the week before the ride. This is an opportunity to preregister and learn about the ride. Check the website for listings.
- 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).
- Preregistered riders need to check in at the ride start to get their map and wrist band.
HOW MUCH DO BFC RIDES COST?
- 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.