Summer Cycling Series #5

Looking for a fun slower pace training series that improves your hill climbing, stamina, and confidence?

Summer Cycling Series may be what you are looking for. These slower-paced rides are geared for new or beginning riders but all are welcome. We will regroup at the top of hills, major turns, and as needed throughout the ride. The routes will include trails, roads, and popular destinations. Learning how to ride in groups and with traffic will also be shown. This 12 ride series, April 8th – July 8th, is intended to be relaxed and fun. 

Each new weekly route will have some fun stops to enjoy and will help you reach whatever goal you have, whether it’s just to ride or to conquer ‘that’ long hill while having fun along the way. This week you will have the option of repeating some hills, hill intervals or leaving the group and returning to the start if you choose.

This week we will meet in the NW end of the Des Moine Marina, near the board walk and restrooms. Restrooms are open. There is paid parking, but not expensive. If you would like to park in a free parking area and ride to start, let me know, as I will be riding to the start. This is a beautiful and hilly ride. So beautiful, you wont even know you are riding the hills. We will start with the Spring Creek Trail, a very gentle and warm up climb, we will be on and off roads through Normady Park, Burien with a ride to Three Tree Point. There will be places to stop for pictures, snacks and bathrooms along the way. Yes this is a shorter ride, but we can do some bonus miles and hills after the ride. 

Please arrive 30 minutes early to ready your bike, check in, and to listen to the S.M.A.R.T talk. You should dress appropriately for the weather, but you do not need spandex or other specialized bike gear. All you need is a working bike, water, snacks and a helmet. If you haven't ridden your bike for quite some time, please do an ABC Check (link below) or take it to your local bike shop a few days prior to the ride date. During the safety and ride briefing, we will go over hand signals and what we say during the ride to keep ourselves safe. If it’s wet or raining, please use fenders and buddy flaps if you have them. If you do not have them, you may be asked to ride in the back.

Register - Please sign an e-waiver by clicking on the “Register Now” button at the top of this page (right below the ride title) and enter your information. If you cannot make the ride, you do not need to un-register. Weather – Showers, severe weather or unsafe riding conditions will cancel the ride. Ride cancellation will be announced in the comments section at least two hours before the start time, and the ride leader(s) will not be at the start.

As we increase distance and elevation, its important to make sure you have plenty of snacks and water. For more detailed ideas on nutrition, or any questions, please contact the ride leader and I will be happy to answer questions and help with nutrition suggestions.