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