Rolling countryside, a beautiful lake and unique roadside attractions greet riders in northeast Oklahoma’s favorite family-friendly bike ride – Dickens of a Ride.
Now in its 10th year, Dickens of a Ride is the perfect ride for all ages and skills with routes ranging from a seven-mile Lazy Lake Loop up to a 100-mile century. The ride kicks off at 8 a.m. Oct. 7 from Gazebo Park in downtown Claremore.
“Hundreds of people from multiple states come out each year to ride the scenic countryside surrounding our beautiful community, and it’s a joy to watch them discover the views and interesting attractions that await them,” said Jessica Jackson, Claremore Main Street Executive Director.
There are a total of seven distances to choose from. The Lazy Lake Loop is perfect for families. Other distances include 18, 30, 50, 62, 76 and 100-mile routes. Last year was the first year to host the 18- and 76-miler, and both were exceedingly popular.
Registration is now open for all distances for $25 before Sept. 1. Prices increase to $30 after that date. Registration is available online here, by downloading and mailing a registration form or in person at Bike-About Bicycles or the Claremore Main Street office.
Long-sleeved T-shirts should be purchased separately for $20. The deadline to order a shirt is Sept. 1.
The ride includes well-supplied rest stops and SAG and mechanical support through 5 p.m. as well as a map with instructions.
“Between our knowledgeable SAG support team and our homemade goodies at the rest stops, this low-pressure ride is an instant favorite for riders,” Jackson said. “We keep things light and not too serious, so it’s both a great foot in the door into the cycling community and a fun ride for more experienced cyclists.”
The available routes, depending on the distance chosen by the bike rider, will take you through the scenic country side west of Claremore, through Oologah, then to the Claremore Lake area.
The longer routes will continue east of Claremore through rolling hillsides then back into Claremore from the East, ending the ride back at the start, downtown Claremore’s Gazebo Park.
The Finish Line is sponsored by RCB Bank. Kevin Fortna, CPA, is a supporting sponsor of the ride.
“Without our community partners, this event would not be possible,” Jackson said. “The vision for this fun ride came from Janice and Tracy Whittaker of Bike-About Bicycles, and they’ve been part of the team to make this ride wonderful year in and year out.”
Proceeds from the ride benefit Claremore Main Street, a nonprofit organization dedicated to the revitalization of the downtown district and reigniting the area as the social core of our community.
For more information or to register, tap here.