Want to get outside and ride the bike trail this summer? Great! We’re here with tips and tricks and things not to forget before you grab your gear and hit the pavement on two wheels. Let’s start with the basics. “The trail has posted rules, but think of it as normal walking etiquette,” says Matt Richardson, manager of Loveland’s Montgomery Cyclery. “If you’re a biker coming through Loveland, I tell people just slow down a little bit. Stay to the right, be patient, and remember this is a family-friendly trail.” If you’re cycling, make sure you call out “on your left” when you’re passing. If you’re a walker and a cyclist is coming up (usually faster than you), consider stepping off the trail to let them have the right-of-way.
Planning a day trip and wondering what you should bring? Matt’s first and foremost suggestion is a no-brainer. “Bring your helmet,” he says simply. Plus a water bottle in a cage, because you’re gonna get thirsty out there. Another thing to take is a blowout bag. “A lot of people like to put their keys and phones in there, but really what you need is a spare inner tube.”
Now that you’ve got the rules down and you’re ready to ride, I’m sure you’re wondering where you should go. Matt’s advice? “Go south. It’s a little less crowded, and you have more incremental stops.”
Need some day-trip inspo? Try the “Brewery Ride”—travel 19 miles between Cartridge Brewing and Fifty West, with delicious food and drink options at either end (and in between!). Or try the “Town-to-Town” ride from historic Loveland to historic Milford, a quick two-to-three hour trip and just around 12 miles. Explore both spots and check out a wealth of local shops and restaurants!
MontgomeryCyclery.com | 116 Karl Brown Way, Loveland | 513.583.8600