Where Does IRide Travel? Do I have to ride all 4 days?
If you are interested in IRide, you can participate in a lot or just a little! We have many different options for your participation.
IRide is a different kind of ride. We don’t just turn you lose with a route map and the dinner schedule. We leave in the morning as a group, and while we tend to spread out as we ride each leg, we regroup at all of the rest stops. This allows time for everyone to rest and chat, and for us to make sure we have wheelchairs and other equipment waiting for the riders at each stop.
The regrouping means that the faster riders either need to slow down or stay a little longer at each stop to wait for the group to catch up and get ready. It also means that some of the slower riders who struggle to maintain the group pace may not be able to do all of the sections of the ride. You must be able to average at least 12 miles per hour for the day. It is not hardcore, but it is intended as a challenge, and not everyone will be ready.
So, why do we do it this way then? Well, as we said, it’s a different kind of ride. The standard model that lets everyone go on their own is fine and works for a lot of people but we didn’t feel the need to be just another ride. By riding and working together we get to know each other very well in a short time. Stronger riders slow down, meet more people, and get a new ride experience. Slower riders get help and encouragement and learn from the skills of people they would only have seen zipping by before.
It is not for everybody but if you are ready to try something new, we would love to have you join us!
Riding Options
IRide route options include four “First Miles” each day, four 1-day rides, a 2-day ride on Saturday and Sunday, and the full 4-day ride. In addition, many riders join us for just the “Final Mile” on the last day of the event when we arrive in Ann Arbor!
More Info
- IRide covers approximately 60 miles each day on lightly traveled paved roads.
- Lunch and snacks will be provided at rest breaks along the way.
- IRiders travel and work together in groups with riders of a similar pace.
- Overnight lodging is provided for the multi-day riders.
- Transportation to return IRiders and their equipment from the finish of their ride to their starting point is available.
- IRide registration includes a cycling jersey or t-shirt.
- The personal wheelchairs or mobility aids of riders will be waiting at each rest stop along the route.
- We will work to accommodate all riders throughout the trip.
Maps and route details will be available soon.
Day 1
St. Joseph to Paw Paw
Day 2
Paw Paw to Battle Creek
Day 3
Battle Creek to Jackson
Day 4
Jackson to Ann Arbor
