We are experienced cyclists who enjoy social, recreational rides in the range of 15-50 miles at speeds averaging between 10-14 mph, with rest stops and optional post-ride socials. We keep the group moving, but we're not racers.
Classes of e-bikes.
Classes of e-bikes (click to enlarge).
All of our trip leaders are volunteers, trained by the AMC in group management, and by the Bicycling Committee leaders to have the skills necessary to plan and run safe, enjoyable group bicycling trips.
Group Ride Policies
All AMC rides require advance registration. We pre-screen all riders to ensure comfort and safety.
You must have a bicycle in good working order. Road, touring, or hybrid bikes are acceptable. Effective 03/2024, we now permit Class 1 & Class 3 pedal-assist bicycles (see diagram). Class 2 bikes that use throttles are not permitted. Mountain bikes are not permitted.
You must wear a properly-fitting bicycle helmet at all times while riding. You must carry an adequate supply of water with you (one or two water bottles is typical).
If you use tires with tubes, you must have a spare tube that fits your tires. It is recommended that you carry a full fix-flat kit regardless of tire type that may include items such as tire levers, tire plugs, a patch kit, and a portable air pump or CO2 inflator.
For rides of an hour or longer, we encourage you to bring a light snack with you. There may or may not be opportunities along the route to purchase drinks and snacks.
You do not have to be a member of the AMC to participate in our trips. (Though we do encourage membership! Join here!)
Introduction to Recreational Riding Series
In April through June of each riding season, we lead a series of bicycling activities specifically for people who are new to recreational outdoor group cycling. Each activity begins with a short training session. The session covers basic on-road rider safety, proper helmet fit, efficient pedaling and gear shifting techniques, and simple bike maintenance skills. After the training, we lead the group on a relatively short ride. Rides are under 15 miles in length and follow scenic rural roads which are mostly flat. The riding pace is relaxed (9-11 mph average), there are regular rest breaks, and the AMC-trained bike trip leaders always keep the group together.
All of our group ride policies (see above) apply on intro rides. This ride series is suitable for adults who are comfortable with being continuously active in the outdoors for 90 minutes. After the ride, participants have an opportunity to ask the leaders any questions they might have. The goal for the training is to build rider confidence, ensure riders can maintain their bicycles in good working order, and prepare them for more challenging rides later in the season.
Activity Schedule
All activities are subject to cancellation due to poor weather conditions. Check activities on outdoors.org for up-to-the-minute additions not yet shown here. Not all activities may be posted yet.
Bicycling Committee Schedule
Event
Date
Location
Distance
Difficulty
Notes
Great Barrington to Mill River Bike Ride
10‑Aug‑2024
Great Barrington, MA
26 miles
moderate
Registration is open
Cycling the Pioneer Valley - Williamsburg to Ashfield to Conway
17‑Aug‑2024
Williamsburg, MA
31 miles
moderate
Registration is open
Cycling the Connecticut River Valley - Whately to Conway
25‑Aug‑2024
Whately, MA
30 miles
moderate
Registration is open
Cycling the Berkshires: Tyringham Valley
14‑Sep‑2024
Lee, MA
31 miles
vigorous
Registration opens 14-Aug-2024
Schedule is subject to change Difficulty is rated for the intended audience
Massachusetts Ranks #1 in Bicycle Friendly State Report Card
Did you know that Massachusetts ranked #1 in the country in the 2022 Bicycle Friendly State Report Card? The League of American Bicyclists gave MA a grade of "A" for infrastructure and funding, education and encouragement, and policies and programs.