Pete’s Pick: Biking is More Fun with Friends

Nothing makes a ride more fun than pedaling with friends. While you can always grab a buddy and go any time, there are weekly riding groups where you can meet new like-minded cyclists for great group rides.

All of these rides get my seal of approval!

M3 Ride (Monday Mill Mountain)

Mondays at 6 p.m. (if the temperature is 50°F or higher): Kyle Inman leads a mountain bike ride ride that explores the amazing trails on Mill Mountain, and the urban alleyways that lead there. The trails are not particularly technical, although expect at least 1000′ of climbing per loop. Generally, an hour to an hour-and-a-half in duration. Lights needed on the season fringes. Great trails, a sweet route is insured, and you can count on post ride Yuenglings at Fork in the Alley Brick Oven Pub, too.

Starting location: Pedestrian bridge over Roanoke River, River’s Edge

Tuesday Night Carvins Cove Ride

Tuesdays at 5:45 p.m.: Join Roanoke IMBA Board Vice President & IMBA Certified Ride Guide Richard Blackwood for an intermediate level tour of the trails at Carvins Cove. Route will be determined by the group but will include a mix of the “uppers” and “lowers”.

Starting location: Meet at the Bennett Springs lot

L’Eroica Roanoke

Tuesdays at 5:45 p.m.: L’Eroica Roanoke starts with pre-ride gathering and socializing. There are four routes for all ability levels – even first-timers.

Starting location: Transportation Museum on Norfolk Avenue

Thursday Lunch Vacation Ride

Thursdays at 12:30 p.m.: Weekly ride of Mill Mountain followed by lunch at Fork in the Alley (if you have time).

Starting location: UnderDog Bikes, 1113 Piedmont St SE, Roanoke, VA 24014

Thursday Night Special with RMA

Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. (every other week): Join Roanoke Mountain Adventure (RMA) for their Thursday Night Special, a group mountain bike ride on Mill Mountain. The ride will leave from the RMA shop around 5:45, head to Mill Mountain via the Greenway and ride a predetermined route to the Star. This group ride is free. All ability levels welcome but keep in mind Mill Mountain is mostly intermediate trail. Call in advance at 540-525-8295 if you need to rent a bike.

Starting location: Roanoke Mountain Adventures, 806 Wasena Ave. SW

Blue Ridge Bicycle Club Calendar

Daily rides: Want more rides? The Blue Ridge Bicycle Club keeps a calendar with these events and others so you can find a group to hit the trail, or road, with pretty much any time.