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The “Sweet Ride”, Saturday, May 18, 2013

Frequently Asked Questions


Where will the ride begin and end? At the Cambridge Main Library, 449 Braodway.

What if I want to drive or take public transit to the start? The closest T stop in is in Harvard Square. On weekends, bikes are allowed on the Red Line all day. If you drive, there’s a parking garage under the library, with an entrance on Broadway. On Saturday, the garage is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The fee is 25 cents for every 15 minutes. You may pay using quarters or with a credit card.

Who is running the event? The Cambridge Bicycle Committee with the help of the Cambridge Police Bicycle Patrol Unit, and the Cambridge Community Development Department. Additional support is provided by Urban AdvenTours and Quad Bikes,

Do I need to register? There is no registration, just show up and enjoy!

How much does it cost? It’s free.

Is this a ride for children? While the ride is not fast, it might be too long for young riders. Young children who aren’t used to riding distances would fare best on a trail-a-bike (and the youngest in seats or trailers). Anyone under 12 must be accompanied by an adult.

Is it suitable for adult beginner cyclists? Yes, if they are in sufficient physical health to safely travel at an average speed of about 7 miles an hour for an extended length of time. If you want to ride only half the route, please note that the starting point at the library is also where we’ll be taking a mid-ride break. If you’ve had enough, you can end your ride at this point.

How long is the ride? How long will it take? The route is about 12 miles long. Traveling at roughly 7 mph, with one long and one short break, the time from start to finish will add up to about 2.5 hours. You should allow more time if you stay for lunch at the end.

How difficult will the route be? Mostly flat and easy.

Will there be a police escort? Yes, the Cambridge Police Department’s Bicycle Patrol will be with us the entire way. Riders are expected to stay with the group and follow the instructions of the Bicycle Patrol officers.

Where will we ride? Check out the map, which will be posted to this site shortly before the ride.

What if I'm late? You can try to catch the ride along the route using the map.

What if I get a flat tire? Riders should ensure that bikes are in good working order before the day of the ride. Mechanics from Urban AdvenTours and Quad Bikes will be on hand for minor repairs.

What about the weather? Heavy rain will cancel the ride. There is no rain date. If the weather looks doubtful, check CambridgeBikes.org. An announcement will also be sent to the ride email list. (Sign up on this web site's home page.)

Will there be public toilets? Yes, in the library, where we’ll start, end, and take our mid-ride break.

Are helmets required? Helmets are required by law for children 16 years old and younger and recommended for everyone.

What are the rules?
1. Stay with the group and behind the leader.
2. The Cambridge Bicycle Patrol will be accompanying the group. Obey all police directives.
3. Stay to the RIGHT of any yellow center line on the road
4. We will ride as a group with the road open to traffic ahead of us and behind us. Please ride safely and courteously, and obey all police directives.


Email info [at] cambridgebikes [dot] org for more information.

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