The 50 States and 13 Colonies Ride returns!

Congratulations to everyone who came out and rode in this year's 50 States and 13 Colonies Ride! Despite some rain later in the day the event was a huge success with close to 400 riders, lots of happy faces, and lots of bikes! Thank you to everyone who participated in the event and of course, a big thank you to event sponsors Signal Financial, REI, Bourbon, the Nation's Triathlon and Drink More Water.

The legendary 50 States and 13 Colonies Ride is back in 2009. Are you ready to try one of the hardest rides in DC? Expect a Start/Finish area and 3 pit stops fully stocked with water, food, and a bike mechanic.

 

Here is what riders had to say about this year's event:

" The 50 states ride was amazing!  Thanks so much for coordinating.  I had a great time riding and also bonding with the other riders.  It was so unique and I can't wait for next year." -Libby

" Thanks so much to you and to the staff for organizing such a great event. It was so well put together, and such a great group of people. Ihad SO MUCH FUN this year!  " -Tish

Check out photos from this year's event on our

flickr page>>

and if you took any photos from the event, feel free to send them our way and we'll add them to the photo page events@waba.org

Choose Your Ride:

50 States

The most unique and challenging bike ride in DC! This 60+ mile ride is for cyclists experienced and comfortable with riding through the city streets with traffic. The 50 States ride covers all 50 state streets in all 8 Wards in search of the District of Columbia's statehood. Often been referred to as "brutal," "insane," and "engrossing." You have not seen the city of Washington by bike until you have done the 50 States Ride.

View online map>>

*cue sheets will be available the day of the ride

13 Colonies

Not quite as challenging as the 50 States Ride, but equally as enjoyable. Ride on all the streets named for every one of the 13 original colonies. This ride is a little under 15 miles and is also for cyclists who are comfortable with riding on city streets with traffic.

View online map>>

*cue sheets will be available the day of the ride

About the Ride:

Lunch:

Those who choose the California Tortilla burrito lunch option will receive their food at the Capitol Hill Pit stop no earlier than 11:30AM.

Post Ride Meet Up:

The post ride meet up location will be at Bourbon in Adams Morgan 2pm to 8pm. All riders who have 50 States and 13 Colonies ride wrist bands will be able to take advantage of the post ride specials ($3 drafts and 10% off all food).

Tips:

• This tour is self supported. No roads will be shut down for this ride and you will rely on public transportation as your support vehicles should you need to end the ride early. Remember to bring some cash for the metro or bus.
• Ride with a group. Bring friends or hook up with other riders.
• Riding with a group allows for some riders to serve as navigators while others watch for traffic and besides, it's more fun that way!
• The 50 States and 13 Colonies routes will not be signed.
• Careful reading of the route cue sheet is necessary.
• Be safe! Remember that helmets are required for all WABA events and don't forget to check out WABA's Safe Cycling Guide for more information before the ride.
• Obey all traffic laws, rules, regulations, and use common sense. You are a vehicle per D.C. law so ride single file with the flow of traffic.
• If you become confused, need to study the cue sheet, or suffer mechanical or other difficulty, move out of the street onto a sidewalk or into a driveway.
• Do not ride in the door zone and always be aware of what is going on behind you.

Be Prepared!

As mentioned above, the 50 States and 13 colonies ride is unsupported so be prepared for any eventuality. Below is a list of what you should carry on the ride.

• Tools
• pump
• patch kit or extra tubes
• a good map (WABA will provide DC bike maps at the start area)
• Additional food and water
• A cell phone in case of emergencies
• Money for the Metrorail or Metrobus in case you are unable to finish.

Volunteer with WABA during the ride!

Events like this cannot take place without the time and help of our dedicated volunteers! WABA is looking for volunteers to help us out with all aspects of the event including set up/registration and help covering the rest stops along the ride. Email chantal@waba.org if you're interested in volunteering.

For more information about the 50 States Ride email chantal@waba.org.

 

 

 

 

Interested in sponsoring this event? contact: chantal@waba.org

top sponsor

 

Lead Sponsor

Post Ride Sponsor

           

In Kind Sponsor

Drink More Water