Emerald City Ride supported by Western WA Honda Dealers

Registration

What's the price of registration? 

$55 for adults and $22 for youth (18 and under).

What's the purpose of the tiers?

If you'd like to add a donation while checking out, you can select an optional tier. Your donation supports Cascade Bicycle Club's work in advocating for safer streets for people who bike, walk, and roll.

Do I have to register my child separately if they're on the bike or in a trailer with me? 

Yes. All persons participating in the event -- even if they're not actively powering the bike -- need to be registered. 

How do tandem riders register?

Each rider will need to register separately, for safety and liability reasons.

Can I register if I plan to ride an ebike?

Yes, however please note that class 3 ebikes are not permitted to ride on multi-use trails such as the Alki Trail, which is an alternative option that runs parallel to the route.

Can I get a refund if I can’t use my registration?

See our refund policy.

Route

What sections are car-free?

SR-99 and the West Seattle Bridge (the high bridge) will be free of vehicle traffic.

Can I start the ride early?

Course hours are from 7 a.m. to 11 a.m. SR-99 and the West Seattle Bridge will only be open during a brief window; neither before nor after will riders be able to access these highways. Riding outside of these hours may mean that you'll miss out on course access, route support, the rest stop, and more.

Is this route flat?

No. The West Seattle Bridge is a climb. This route features several notable hills that will have your legs, heart, and lungs all pumping. They really start near the Fauntleroy ferry terminal. The first climb is curvy, swervy, and about a mile long. If you're not a big fan of biking up hills, there will be sidewalks that you can use to walk up. You may utilize a short cut that takes you back to Lumen Field after crossing the West Seattle Bridge, but this route is only about 7 miles long, and Outriders and SAG vehicles may not be stationed along the latter half of it until the rest of the pack reaches that return section.

What if I can not make it the entire route?

In the event of a mechanical issue or a non-life threatening injury like a sprained wrist, SAG vehicles can transport you to the nearest rest stop or the finish line.

If I have a flat or other mechanical problems will there be someone to help me? 

Yes! Outriders, posted mechanics, and SAG drivers can all assist you with common mechanical problems.

Are the other roads closed to vehicle traffic?

No. You should be comfortable riding with vehicular traffic, familiar with the rules of the road, and know how to communicate with other riders (including kids on bikes), pedestrians, and drivers around you. Read more on how to Ride S.M.A.R.T.

Is the route family-friendly?

Probably not for very young riders. This depends entirely on the family and the age and experience of the child. We strongly suggest you consider how comfortable you and your child (or children) are with riding (or being a passenger) in large groups of thousands of riders, alongside fast vehicular traffic, going up long hills alongside cars, and riding in all sorts of weather conditions (wind, rain, sun) up and down hills. For some children, this might not be a fun experience and they may not yet be skilled enough to handle these situations on their own bike, even with an adult. If you haven't taken a bike ride as a family yet this year, we suggest you plan a couple before the event. Many families do ride Emerald City Ride together. It's best to be prepared and to talk to your kids first.

Read more on the blog:

• Dad’s Tips for Riding STP with the Kids

• Family Bonding: How Bicycling Parents can Nurture their Kids’ Love of Long Rides

Logistics

Where can I park my car at the start line? Parking near the start line will be very limited. You can check Downtown Seattle Parking for information. Note that parking rates vary on days with special events! Parking is not included in your registration. We strongly suggest that you bike to the start line, take transit, or use a combination (such as parking a little further away and then biking to the start line). Thousands of other riders will be making their way to the start line, so have a plan in place in advance.

Miscellaneous

Suggested items to bring? Spring weather can be extremely variable. Bring a change of clothes to have in the car or in your pannier. Consider installing fenders on your bike, bring your rain and wind gear, and two water bottles. You will want water at the top of that hill climb! Even if you don't know how to change a flat, bringing a flat kit and a spare inner tube that fits your bike will enable others to help you on the go.