SpokeFest brings bikers together

The SpokeFest motto says it all: Get your bike on. No matter how old you are, what kind of bike you ride or how much time you’ve spent riding this year, SpokeFest is the premier cycling event for everyone. It’s a celebration, organizers say – of “the joy of cycling, the beauty of Spokane, healthy lifestyles and the environment.” Now, the third annual event — which happens Sept. 12 – has even more to offer. In the past, routes consisted of a 1-mile loop around Riverfront Park and a 21-mile community ride through downtown, the Aubrey L. White Parkway and Riverside State Park. This year, riders have two additional options. Racers and others craving a more challenging workout can still be part of the festivities by riding the Four Mounds route – an additional 26 miles in the Coulee Hite area in addition to the 21-mile Classic River Loop for a total of 47 miles. Those who want to stay closer to downtown but desiring distance in between the Park Loop and the 21-mile route can choose the Spokane Falls Option, which allows participants a shortcut along the Classic River Loop and ride for just nine miles. The route is almost like the Bloomsday course, according to organizers, but includes a few extra miles along Government Way to the Military Cemetery and also along the Centennial Trail behind Spokane Falls Community College. Another change this year involves the 1-mile Park Loop. Just like last fall, participants can ride the loop as often as they want but new this year is a series of stations featuring bike handling skills and other fun events. Kids and other participants will receive a passport, which they can get stamped at each station. At the end of the loop, they will receive a small prize. Cyclists on the longer routes can take a break and enjoy refreshments at the food and beverage stop, located about halfway through the 21-mile ride at the Seven Mile Bridge. Aid stations will be available at the top of Doomsday Hill and the Four Mounds course. All four routes will have riders finishing at SpokeFair on the Post Street Bridge next to Riverfront Park. The fair will feature live music, food vendors and booths representing various cycling groups and other area organizations. “We wanted to expand the possibilities so that we can attract a wider range of people to get on their bikes,” said Dr. Bill Bender, the event’s founder. “SpokeFest was developed with everyone in mind – from first-timers to experienced cyclists.”