Sure, the weather here might occasionally leave a visitor from, say, California pining for a sunny day in Sausalito. And for a devoted Coloradan, the hills of Western Massachusetts, even those slightly taller mounts in Vermont and New Hampshire, just don’t measure up to the Rockies.
Still, this part of the world has more than its fair share of cycling enthusiasts, more than its fair share of scenic rides and challenging terrain, more than its fair share of cool places to go before and after a ride. Each of cycling’s sub-genres, from BMX to downhill to long-distance commuting—finds an audience in the Valley; in recent years, the once relatively obscure (except in Europe) sport of cyclocross has become a huge deal in the greater Northampton area, where you might see top racer Jeremy Powers, an Easthampton resident, out for a training ride.
Next month, two big events on the local calendar will showcase Valley cycling at its best and most beautiful.
On Sept. 24, Northampton Cycling Club will present the fourth annual BikeFest Tour of the Valley, an event that celebrates the full breadth of the local cycling scene. BikeFest mixes a wide range of two-wheel activities, including five fully supported rides—from a 104-mile trek of Western Mass. and Southern Vermont to an eight-mile family ride—and a BMX stunt show, with live music (Roger Salloom performs), local food and beer and fall foliage. Proceeds from the event benefit the NCC’s youth and cycling programs. BikeFest also supports Steph’s Wild Ride, a non-profit providing direct support to local families struggling with juvenile cancer. The event begins and ends at Look Park in Northampton. (For more information, go to www.nohobikeclub.org.)
The connection between cycling and charity is well-established, epitomized by the Pan Mass Challenge and Katelynn’s Ride, both to benefit the Dana Farber Cancer Institute. On Sept. 17, the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts reaches out to the cycling community for help fighting hunger, hosting the first annual Will Bike 4 Food. The bike-a-thon event will feature 25-, 50- and 100-mile rides, with a fundraising minimum of $250. The event, which takes place at Millside Park in Easthampton, includes a spirited after party. (For more information, go to www.foodbankwma.org.)
Both events are scheduled for a time of year that cyclists favor for its warm but rarely hot weather and for the beauty of New England in autumn.
