“If biking is your passion, set aside time to enjoy a good ride.” Patrick Dempsey
Whether you enjoy the pedal variety, fat tire, motor biking or one of the new electric-hybrid bikes, biking in southern Maine is one of those wonderful 4-season activities. You can ride for the scenery, to stay in shape (after a long year riding the couch), to raise money for a worthy cause or just for the camaraderie of friends and family outdoors.
So what makes you a happy biker? Old Orchard Beach and the surrounding area is chock full of potential biking adventures. Pick a road, a trail – paved or natural, a mountain or a beach. September is one of the best months to bike. The weather is starting to get a bit cooler and the summer crowd is waning.
Here are some organized events coming up:
Sat. Aug. 27, 2022
Bikefest “On the Pier”
This is the 17th year for this all day motorcycle event. Showcase your bike, listen to live music, meet other motorcycle enthusiasts, enjoy delicious roasted pig, fresh Maine lobster and more. There are vendors and prizes and with the amusement park and the beach right there, you’re bound to have an unforgettable time.
New England Parkinsons Ride Fundraiser
The New England Parkinson’s Ride took shape in the summer of 2008, and linked up with Team Fox at The Michael J Fox Foundation. The Ride has grown at an incredible rate over the past thirteen years. 2019 drew over 1300 cyclists, from 27 states and 3 provinces of Canada. Choose from a 10, 30, 50, or 100 mile route. All rides begin and end at The Ball Park, Old Orchard Beach, Maine. Food, beverages, music and family activities will be available depending on COVID restrictions. For those of you who would like to join in from your own beautiful place, sign up for virtual “Cycling In Sync.”
Maine Lighthouse Ride
There isn’t a more iconic symbol of Maine than a majestic lighthouse. Join the Eastern Trail Alliance for the 2021 Maine Lighthouse Ride. Ride starts at the Southern Maine Community College in South Portland.
Four route options include:
• Century – 100 miles with 9 lighthouses
• Metric Century – 62 miles with 8 lighthouses
• 40 Miler – 40 scenic miles with 8 lighthouses
• 25+ miler – Brand new exciting ride with 7 lighthouses
Go Your Own Way
The Eastern Trail
Be your own guide! The Eastern Trail was started in the early 1990’s and has 22 off-road miles from Bug Light (in South Portland) to Kennebunk, as well as a scenic on-road route that mostly follows quiet country roads. Experienced bike riders and hikers can enjoy a beautiful journey from South Portland’s Bug Light Park on Casco Bay (near Portland) to Kittery’s Piscataqua River.
Rent Some Wheels
If you bring your own bike, great. If not, there is a local bike rental establishment that delivers for free: Fun and Sun Rentals
