Saturday, Dec 6 - Massachusetts’ Global Fat Bike Day!! Adventure Ride

• Location: Start and end in Wompatuck State Park, Hingham, MA

• Ride Type:  Trails, Beaches, Roads on Fat Bikes

• Date & Time:  Saturday, December 6, 2025 8am start*

• Distance:  We have OPTIONS! ~40 and ~70 miles (bring lights!)*

• Price: $0 - if this is your first ride with NEER, it’s no charge, come on out! If you’ve ridden with NEER previously, please become a member, it’s required of our insurance.

• RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form

Details

This is a fat bike adventure ride! It’s got a little of all of the fun riding and a whole lot of adventure to look forward to. It’s a big day on the fat bike, come well prepared for a big day! There are quality beaches, sand, trails, back roads. A whole lot of everything.

* We reserve the right to shift start times & change route lengths based on conditions for the day.

Raffle! Win $350 in Cold Weather Goodies

All riders who show up to this ride will be entered into a raffle that will be held prior to rollout! Fat-bike and winter-specific items will be raffled.

• The raffle Grand Prize is these sweet pedals and studded boot system from 9point8 out of Canada! Other items include:

• NEER Wool Neck Warmer - 2 will be raffled! $60 value each

• 45NRTH Draugenklaw drop bar pogies - 1 set, $85 value

NEER members receive an extra entry each to this raffle!

Pace

This ride is suitable for people with good fitness to push your fat tires all day long! The average pace will be ~8mph for the stronger riders. This is not slow when you’re on a fat bike.

We are offering a “fun” pace for those wanting a less intense day or riders who are newer to their fat bike. This pace is offered for the 40-mile version only considering this is still a big day in the saddle.

Distance & Estimated Ride Time

Allow 9-10 hours for this ride for the 70-mile version, depending on your pace. We’ll break up into groups if that allows everyone to get the ride of his/her desires, but only if we have > 10 riders or people at different paces.

The 40-mile route is a ~5.5 hour ride for stronger riders, 6.5 hours for less strong riders so still a big day at this time of year!

Food and Drink During the Ride

There are good cafes and places to fill up water bottles and eat calories on the route. Riders should bring the equivalent of 2 x 26 ounces of water and extra calories as you would on any long ride, but expect to have enough places to stop (and warm up!) on the way for both route options.

Parking

Parking is free and ample at the Wompatuck parking lot. Details will be shared with all who RSVP no later than 7pm the evening before the ride.

Route

The routes will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm the night before the ride.

Route Notes

Expect everything on this ride! Beaches, paved roads, plenty of fun trails, nothing too technical, but lots of fun.

After the Ride

Bring something to eat for post-ride. Also bring a change of clothes for the drive home! Since we aren’t charging, we aren’t staffing the finish of the ride or providing food.

Last-Minute Information

We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.

Contact Information

Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.

CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.

Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.

Riding Rules

All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.

Waiver

NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.

Proper bike & Equipment

• 3.5” knobby tires OR BIGGER.  Wider tires are nicer! We’ll be on some beaches so mountain bikes don’t have wide enough tires for these sections. Besides, it’s Global Fat Bike Day! Studded tires are fine. There are paved sections, these won’t be bad or unsafe for studded tires, it’s just louder.

• All 70-mile (long route) riders MUST bring front and rear lights to see and be seen for 2+ hours. The ride will finish in the dark.

• Enough food and water to be hydrated and satisfied in between food stops. This should mean 2 x 26 ounce bottles + 2 food bars/equivalent.

• Bring money for food, there are cafe and food stops on the routes.

• A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. We’ll ask you to call for a ride or take an Uber home if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.

• High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires. Some of the beach riding may involve riding on rocks, and there are paved roads connecting the beaches and trails.

• Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike. Have a plan if your legs or bike stop working so you can get home.

Register to Participate in Global Fat Bike Day Massachusetts 2025 Now!

If you can’t make it, we just ask that you let us know (email connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com) so we aren’t looking for you at the start or during the day.

Myles Standish Fat Fun + Extra Ride Option on fun MTB Trails

• Location: Myles Standish for part 1, Carolina Hill for part 2

• Ride Type:  Pine Barrons, sandy trails, hilly terrain

• Date & Time:  Sunday, November 23, need to be there by 9:20am, rolling at 10am

• Distance:  ~2 hours of riding, 18 miles first part, 2-3 hours for optional part B

• Price:  Free; see NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us

• RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form

Details

This is a fat bike wonder ride on different terrain! David Farrell of SE NEMBA is leading the Myles Standish portion of the ride. After it concludes in 18 miles and ~2 hours of riding, those who wish for more will continue to Carolina Hill for a whole lot of fun trails and exploration there. David describes the trails as one of the best fat bike trails you have ever been on!! Myles Standish State Forest is the third largest WORLD of Pine Barren of pitch pines, sandy, and infertile soil.

Pace

This ride is suitable for people who are fit enough for climbing and pushing their fat bikes on sand. It will not be a fast pace at all.

Start Time

9:20m - David has requested riders be here by 9:20 for discussion of the trails

10:00am - Wheels roll

Parking

DCR PARK

194 Cranberry Road Carver MA

Better directions will be emailed to all who RSVP for this.

Route

Everyone will stay together, no route will be shared for either part of the ride. Frequent re-groups will happen, no one will be lost or dropped.

Route Notes

Expect sand and 800’ of elevation gain total.

Last-Minute Information

We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.

Contact Information

Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.

CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.

Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.

Riding Rules

All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.

Waiver

NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.

If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.

Proper bike & Equipment

• 3.8” knobby tires OR BIGGER.  Wider tires are nicer! We’ll be on beaches so mountain bikes don’t have wide enough tires for these sections.

• A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. We’ll ask you to call for a ride or take an Uber home if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.

• High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires.  8psi is usually max for fat tires, you’ll probably be happier somewhere around 6psi depending on the width of your tires and your weight.

• Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike.

RSVP to Participate in this Ride Now!

Please RSVP only after you’ve made sure you can attend. It is inconsiderate to RSVP prior to committing to attending since it affects the experience of the other cyclists in attendance. We understand that things come up last-minute. Be sure to email us if you can’t attend: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.

January 16-18: Three Day Hut-to-Hut Fat Bike Adventure Ride

• Ride Type:  Fat bike hut trip

• Date & Time:  Friday, January 16-Sunday, January 18 (3 days, 2 nights)

• Location: Carrabassett Valley, Maine, where the snow is the best and trails allow for incredible riding

• Distance each day:  Conditions dictate, options will be offered. Long ride option for Saturday of 40-50 miles.

• Price:  $450 per person. Open to NEER members due to insurance requirements. See what’s included, below.

• Register now!

Details

This is a fun and potentially demanding fat bike 3-day adventure riding incredible trails in Carrabassett Valley, a winter wonderland, and staying in nice huts to go further and see more!

The huts are full service offering freshly prepared, hot breakfasts and dinners accommodating all dietary needs of participants. Lunch is either at the hut or they pack it so riders can enjoy lunch in the wild.

Included in the price is stuff-schelpping from parking lot to the first hut, then from one hut to the next, then getting your stuff back to your car at the end of the trip. This allows you to enjoy riding with only the things you need for the day, not sleeping bag, toiletries, and your change of clothes.

Read about what to expect at the huts!

We have 9 spaces reserved for attendees and 2 are already spoken for. We expect to sell out and have a waiting list. We have to have a firm commitment via full payment the first week in December since we have to pay in full to the huts the first week in December.

The first night, we’ll be at lovely Stratton Hut.

The second night, we’ll be at secluded, private Flagstaff Hut.

Distance and pace

Ride at your own pace. Fat bike riding in the snow is slow for the fittest riders. Everyone will start and end at the same places each day and night for camaraderie and we expect enough people of various fitness levels so that everyone will have company out there. There is one designated trip organizer/ride leader who will likely be riding a fully loaded bike allowing for slower riders to have company. Route options will be shared with participants for each day (a shorter and longer option), so everyone is welcome to take on the distances that are comfortable for each person. Saturday’s minimum distance requirement is 20 miles to travel from the first hut to the second hut. There will be a long option of 40-50 miles for those who want a big day of riding.

Schedule

Exact timing of activities and rides will be emailed to everyone a few days prior to the start of the trip. Snow conditions will be factored into route lengths and will be adjusted as appropriate.

Friday - Meet up at 9:30am, at parking lot where cars can spend the weekend, drop overnight stuff off

10am - Ride starts

Arrive Stratton Brook Hut, enjoy a hot shower!

Enjoy a hot, hearty Dinner prepared by hut staff

Saturday -

7:30am - Enjoy a hot, hearty Breakfast prepared by hut staff

Ride 8:30am - Long - 40-50 mile

10am - Shorter - 20 miles (this isn’t short!)

Enjoy sack lunch hut staff prepared on the trail!

Arrive Flagstaff Hut before dinner

6-6:30pm - Enjoy a hot Dinner prepared by hut staff

Sunday -

7:30am - Enjoy a hot, hearty breakfast prepared by hut staff

Ride - 9am - it’s ~15 miles to return to cars / longer option available

Enjoy the sack lunch hut staff prepared on the trail!

Monday is the Martin Luther King, Jr holiday so hopefully you don’t have to rush home Sunday night!

Are you training for an ultra winter cycling event?

If you’re an ultra winter cyclist preparing for future ultra events and want the challenge of sleeping outside in a bivvy and want to self-support (ie bringing and making most/all food on the trail), this is an option! You can still take advantage of the gear shuttle to get extra stuff to the huts and have stuff moved from one hut to the next to transport extra food and any extra gear you think you might want. This is an option at the bottom of the page where registration links appear.

Parking

Airport Trailhead. All attendees will receive driving directions to this parking lot. This is where you’ll bring your stuff so it can be transported to the first hut.

Routes

All routes will be emailed in advance of the weekend.

Complete Information

We will email all participants with full details at least 2 days prior to the trip, including routes of shorter and longer options. Please don’t hesitate to ask questions via email or txt.

If you need to arrive later on Friday and your stuff will miss the gear shuttle, we can arrange for you to get us your stuff prior to the trip (in the Boston area) and we’ll bring it up early so that it makes it to the hut.

Contact Information

Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride.

CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.

Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.

Our Super Domestique rides with a Garmin InReach in case of emergency that is out of cell phone range. We do this to facilitate rider safety. If you’re not riding with the Super Domestique, we ask that you follow the proposed route for the day and let us know if you’re planning on doing something different for safety. We always want to know where you are!

Preparation

This is unlike our other rides. It’s very important to come prepared with all necessary equipment and have a bike that is tuned and completely ready for what this ride entails. Clothing appropriate for the temperatures is important and remember that overheating on very cold days can happen so layers are important. Everyone who registers will receive a packing list and guidance on proper gear.

Waiver

NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.

Proper bike & Equipment

• Fat bike with tires 3.8” or wider.

• A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. Have a plan in case your bike or legs stop working. Note there are a lot of dead cell phone areas in the areas where we’ll be riding.

• All necessary equipment and supplies - we’ll email a comprehensive list so you know what is necessary well ahead of time. This list includes bringing a sleeping bag (summer weight is fine) for sleeping in the hut beds.

• Lights - front and rear, back up lights and back-up batteries (cold batteries don’t work like warm ones do)

• Optional and fun! Stove - ability to make water from snow in cold temps

Register Now and Reserve Your Spot!! Space is VERY limited. If all spots are not reserved by January 1, we will cancel those bed reservations.

Sold Out

Ultimate Hut-to-Hut Fat Bike Adventure

$450.00

Purchase

Ultimate Hut-to-Hut Fat Bike Adventure - OUTDOOR Sleeping & eating

$125.00

Purchase

Ultimate Hut-to-Hut Fat Bike Adventure - WAITLIST

$0.00

Purchase

Connecticut Coffee & Gravel, NEER x The Bike Shop

Details

• DATE CHANGE - Now happening Saturday, November 15 at 9am due to nice weather Saturday!!!

• Ride Type: Remote paved and dirt roads

• Time & Date: Saturday, November 15

• Starting Point: Willington, CT

• Distance: ~50 miles

• Price: Free

• Your first NEER ride does not require membership, if it’s your 2nd ride or more, you MUST be a NEER member to participate for insurance reasons.
  

Description

This is a gorgeous, well-planned gravel route that serves up a New England mix of classic gravel, scenic farm roads, rolling paved stretches, cat 4 roads, carriage roads, some single and some double track too. Thank you to The Bike Shop - One Love Outdoors for curating this route and sharing it with us!

We’ll be riding with NEER riders and The Bike Shop has invited their local community to join as well, so it’ll be a wonderful mix of people out there!

You’re welcome to ride whatever bike you want as long as the minimum tire size is met, your bike is in safe working order, and you have tools/tubes in case of a mechanical.

Start Location

• A free lot adjacent to The Bike Shop

  Address:

  14 Tolland Turnpike
  Willington, CT 06279

Pace

There will be at least three groups, possibly more. One will be a moderate-quicker pace, for those who prefer an ~18mph road pace for 4 hours (pace will be lower than this since it’s gravel).

One group will average a solid “moderate” pace, this is appropriate for riders who are comfortable with 16-17mph average on road bikes for 4+ hours. This group will have a Super Domestique.

There is likely a “fun” pace group with a Super Domestique that will average a little less than the “moderate” group’s pace.

Your pace will be ~20-30% slower than your road riding pace.

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• We cannot shuttle riders anywhere, it’s your responsibility to have a plan in case your bike or legs stop working.

• There may be little cell coverage in this area, so be aware of that.

• We’ll send an email by 7pm the day before the ride, with the route, instructions, and details so you understand logistics and exactly what to do and where to go.

Waiver

If you’re a member of NEER, you’ve signed the waiver. If you think you haven’t signed it, please do it now: https://www.newenglandexpeditionriders.com/ride-waiver

Riding Rules

• Be sure you’re up for the general riding rules: https://www.newenglandexpeditionriders.com/ride-rules

Preparation

• Bring everything you need for mechanicals that pop up on gravel/mixed terrain rides. All the things you need for a flat, tubeless puncture, EXTRA TUBE even if you run tubeless, air, levers, chain breaker, chain pliers, multi tool, spare derailleur hanger if your bike uses these.

• Be sure to bring anything else you might need taking into account the weather conditions this time of year, your personal circumstances, your health, etc. 

  • You will want to come prepared with the equivalent of three full 26 ounce bottles of water, enough food to fuel the full ride distance, and fitness for the distance. There might not be a good resupply for the entire route. (We’re researching options now and will tell all who RSVP more in the pre-ride email.)

After the Ride

• Bring a change of clothes and food to enjoy for the drive home. There aren’t a lot of food/drink options in this area.

• The Bike Shop will be making lattes and will organize food to be brought in from a local establishment (think pizza). Bring cash if you want to join in on the food and drinks and fun social time together!

Proper Bike for this Ride

• A road or gravel bike that has 38mm tires or wider. 40mm should be ideal. Mountain bikes will be a little overkill on much of the route. Narrower than 32mm are strongly discouraged. There is some loose gravel on the roads, and some sandy spots. Narrower tires are more likely to pinch flat and are less stable. If you’re not sure of your gravel riding ability, this isn’t the best first ride to take on.

• Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. Mountain bike pedals/shoes are appropriate; road pedals/shoes should not be used.

• A bike that’s in safe working order. Make very certain your bike comes clean, lubed, safety checked with fresh brake pads, and tires in good shape. A bike that makes any unusual noises - from a squeaky chain to any kind of other noise should not be ridden prior to being evaluated and fixed by a professional mechanic.

Contact Information and How to Get Your Questions Answered

Email connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with any questions. Call 413-461-7433 the day of the ride to speak with the organizer on route. Please contact us via email prior to the day of the ride for all matters otherwise.

RSVP NOW!

Martha’s Vineyard Off-Road Adventure Tour with Mike and Mary - Spring 2026

• Location: Martha’s Vineyard, MA

• Ride Type:  Mixed Terrain Adventure - ride trails, dirt roads, ancient paths, and back roads with the day catered by Mike and Mary with homemade, tasty food to delight hungry riders

• Date & Time:  Re-scheduled to Spring 2026 when it’s warm and Mike & Mary are back in town!

• Distance:  ~40 miles

• Max attendance: Registration is capped at 35 riders

• Price:  $125. Register at BikeReg.com. Open to everyone! (NEER membership not required.)

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If you’re interested in doing a private ride or tour of the Island with Mary at a separate time, please email Mary at:

marymcconneloug at fastmail.com (replace “at” with “@” when you email her!)

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Details of this Special Adventure Tour with Mike & Mary

Come join mountain bike legends, Olympian Mary McConneloug and pro Michael Broderick, for a fun day of riding bikes on and off road on charming Martha’s Vineyard! They are taking riders on a mixed terrain tour showcasing some of their favorite quiet back routes over ancient trails and roads with an emphasis on cool trails that are hiding all over the island. Highlights include full immersion into the natural island beauty, cycling to remote areas, offering views from a favorite high point and a beach stop to take in the Atlantic Ocean. Riding will be fun at a moderate pace; all riders will enjoy a solid day on the bike at a moderate (not slow) pace. This should not be a rider’s first gravel or mixed terrain ride, participants should be experienced cyclists with experience riding on dirt and mixed terrain.

What You Get

• An exciting full day adventure on bikes with Mike & Mary, professional cyclists who have a lifetime of adventures to share and who continue to live their dream racing all over the world. 

• A day to just ride and enjoy nature, experience the incredible mixed terrain riding on Martha’s Vineyard.

• Nice welcome gathering with refreshments to start the day.

• Hot, homemade meal served at the end of the ride.

• All diets and preferences are accommodated.

• Opportunity to enjoy ferry crossings of the Vineyard Sound which offer picturesque calm during the trip to/from the island. (Tickets for the ride aren’t included in event price.)

• A morning greeter where you park in the morning prior to catching the ferry.

• There are 3 ride guides and 2 professional mechanics on the ride so you’re well taken care of though we want you to come with tuned and ready bikes!

• An intimate cycling experience with locals, a chance to meet some new friends and gain knowledge of special places to ride off-road on Martha’s Vineyard!

Food & Water During the Day

After arriving to Martha’s Vineyard on the ferry, Mike and Mary will greet riders and treat everyone to coffee and tea and some homemade wholesome treats to eat.

There will be food & water stops during the ride where riders may fill water bottles or purchase food if desired.

Riders will enjoy something to eat prepared by Mary prior to departing the ride/catching the ferry for those who are taking it back to the mainland.

All dietary preferences are accommodated, we ask for this information when you register.

Martha’s Vineyard riders having the time of their lives with Mike and Mary and crew!

Price

$125 for the experience, ride, and everything Mike & Mary are providing in terms of homemade food, hot drinks and baked goods at the start of the ride, hot tasty food at the end of the day and mid-ride food too.

Refund Policy

Cancellations up to 2 weeks in advance will be refunded 50%. If the ride can’t be run due to dangerous or miserable weather (forecast of light rain doesn’t cancel), a rain date will be announced and if participants can’t make the new date, a 50% refund & 50% credit will be issued.

Parking for People Coming from the Mainland & Ferry Details

For riders coming from off-island, there are a number of free parking lots a short bike ride away from the ferry. Everyone who registers will receive detailed information about where to park, where to meet up with each other and when to ride over to the ferry. A NEER Super Domestique will be at the lot to get everyone together for the ride to the ferry terminal.

Riders will be taking the 9:30am ferry which arrives Vineyard Haven at 10:15am.

At the end of the day, riders will be back at Vineyard Haven around 3pm making the 3:45pm ferry the earliest ferry ride possible to return on. Be prepared to take the next ferry in case it’s not possible to get back in time for the 3:45pm departure or if you’re having such a nice time you want to stick around a little longer.

Ferries run nearly every hour until the last ferry which is ~9:30pm.

Route, Distance, Pace

This is a guided experience so no one needs to have the route, but a route file will be provided and a shorter option will be provided as well via GPS file. No one is getting dropped or lost. The route will be appropriately adjusted if the weather or time requires. The route length is 40 miles.

The pace will be moderate throughout the day, it’s important to keep riding to stay warm. The ride assumes riders have the ability to ride 15-17 mph on a road bike (this is not a road ride, it’s just a way to state speed/fitness levels), and the ride assumes riders have experience riding mixed terrain (mixed terrain is a little more twisty, turny and sandy than gravel), but this is not an overly technical route. As long as riders have experience riding some dirt on a gravel or mountain bike and fitness for a 15-17mph road pace, this ride is within the scope of riders’ abiities.

Terrain Details

Mostly off road paths, trails, dirt roads, and some pavement, very light traffic. Most trails are not overly technical, but there will be more emphasis on super fun trails this year than in previous editions of this adventure ride. There is a fair amount of sand on the roads and trails. You’ll see some secret spots very few people have visited!

Riding Rules

All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by these Rules. Registering for this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.

Proper bike & Equipment

• Required: A bike with tires 38mm wide or bigger. The bigger, the better!

• Required: A bike that’s in safe working order that has been recently tuned and is free of creaking and squeaking.

• Required: All of the tools for typical mechanicals such as:

  • Flat fix tools and at least one spare tube (yes, even if you’re running tubeless tires), air via CO2 or hand pump, multi-tool

  • Extra chain link, chain breaker, chain pliers

  • Spare derailleur hanger if your bike needs a spare

• Extra clothes and storage capacity so adding/taking off layers is easy

• Required: Cell phone

• Required: Two full water bottles at the start of the ride

• Required if coming from off-island: Front and rear lights that have at least 1.5 hours of run time.

• Nice to have: Extra calories in your pockets

About Mary McConneloug!

Mary is a 2 x Olympian (Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008), 4 x US National MTB Champion and also the 2017 Masters Enduro MTB World Champion.  She loves to get creative in the kitchen, fueling their days with good healthy foods.  Mary loves the outdoors, riding in new places where the car cannot go.  She manages many of the fine details necessary to run their professional race team. 

Mary loves to cook, garden and is learning to surf.  She is an advocate for healthy active lifestyles, and sharing that with others!  She has coached herself from the beginning and has her own coaching and mentoring business.  She holds a nutrition based philosophy combining lifestyle balance and periodization training techniques to reach fitness goals.

About Mike Broderick!

In Mike’s 30+ years of competitive bike racing, he has ranked among the top of his field in Cross Country, Cyclocross, mixed team stage racing (with Mary) and most recently in the Masters Enduro World Series. Legendary for his technical handling skills and fitness, Mike has raced on the US National Team for over 10 years alongside Mary. He earned the Masters Enduro MTB World Champion Title in 2016. His mechanic skills have stood by him as he continues to tune and refine both his and Mary’s race machines. He earned his University degree with a Bachelor in English and minor in Art from Springfield University, MA (1995). Mike was born and raised in Chilmark, MA and has always enjoyed riding in the woods, shredding dirt and surfing waves since he was a kid.

More about Mike and Mary, The A-Team!

Mike was born on Martha’s Vineyard, MA and Mary was born in Fairfax, CA. They met at a MTB race in Northern California during the Spring of 1999.  Their first date, a 70-mile road ride out to Point Reyes National Seashore set the back drop for a life time of adventures on the bikes - which they continue to enjoy today.  Their second date was a week long road trip to race at the NORBA National XC in Big Bear, CA…. They were smitten from the start, by each other and the challenge of racing, riding bikes and pushing their limits to improve.  They have supported each other, creating their own 2 person team, alongside a handful of great companies (which includes Seven Cycles), pursuing many disciplines of off road cycling - mainly XCO, cyclocross, stage race and Enduro.  For the past 26 years Mike and Mary have built their life around sustaining a career in racing bikes and continue to be involved at domestic and international events and sharing the ride.

Still going strong, both Mike and Mary were the 2024 USAC Masters 50+ Enduro National Champions in their respective fields!

Express your interest in attending this event now! Once registration opens up, you’ll be the first to know (we’ll email you)!!!

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West Hill Dam Mountain & Fat Bike Ride

• Location: Start and end at West Hill Dam, Uxbridge, MA

• Ride Type:  Trails of green and blue difficulty, mostly flowy and fun

• Date & Time:  Saturday, October 11, 9am start

• Distance:  Route is 14 miles long (almost 3 hours prob) & there will be a longer extra riding opportunity for those who want more

• Price:  Free; see NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us

• RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form

Details

This is a great area for mountain bike riding with fun flow, not too technical so it’s a really nice venue for a terrific ride on mountain and fat bikes!

Pace

We’ll split into two groups: faster and endurance moderate. For endurance group, there will be re-grouping periodically at intersections so no one gets lost but everyone can ride at their comfortable pace.

Start Time

8:55am - Be ready to ride!

9:00am - Safety talk starts, then everyone rolls out

Distance & Estimated Ride Time

Allow 3 hours for the ride. After the 14-mile route we’ll be following, there will be an opportunity to try out other trails nearby to tack on another few hours on the bike. Do what you want to do! Refill at your car after the first 3 hours for the next leg.

Parking

Parking is at West Hill Dam’s parking lot. Details will be shared with all who RSVP.

Route

The route will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm the night before the ride.

Route Notes

Nothing specific. This is a mountain bike trail area so we don’t expect to be on roads for the first 14 miles. The optional additional mileage will involve taking roads to other nearby trails to do some exploring and other trail riding.

After the Ride

Anyone who wants to hang out and talk about bikes after the ride is welcome to do so. We’ll fill back up with water after the first 14 miles and then those who want to head back out will do that and everyone else can go on with their day!

Last-Minute Information

We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.

Contact Information

Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.

CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.

Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.

Riding Rules

All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.

Waiver

NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.

If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.

Proper bike & Equipment

• 2” knobby tires or bigger.  

• MTB clipless or flat pedals and shoes.  These are important elements of bike control. If you are an experienced cyclist who has used platform pedals and sticky shoes extensively, this is acceptable. No road pedals/shoes.

• A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned.

• High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires.  

• Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike.

RSVP to Participate in this Ride Now!

Please RSVP only after you’ve made sure you can attend. It is inconsiderate to RSVP prior to committing to attending since it affects the experience of the other cyclists in attendance. We understand that things come up last-minute. Be sure to email us if you can’t attend: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.

Autumn Overnight Bikepacking Weekend

Riders enjoy time sitting around a fire after a long day of great riding!

• Location: Starts in Fitchburg, MA, Ride to and camp to a campground in Philipston, MA then have a great ride back to your vehicle or the train back home in Fitchburg - route is a loop

• Route: Bikepacking, mixed terrain, plenty of dirt under your tires, some paved roads as well

• Ride Type: Mixed Terrain

• Date & Time: Saturday & Sunday, 27-28 September 2025, 9:30am & earlier rollouts Saturday. Back to the lot by 6:30pm Sunday.

• Distance: ~50 miles each day

• Price: $30 per person. Must be a NEER member to participate (this keeps the price down for everyone since we don’t have to buy extra insurance, become a member!) The cost covers your spot in a campground that offers showers, water, electricity, campfire (NEER buys the wood for a group campfire)

• Non-Riding family/friend option! See details below.

Description:  The Autumn Overnight bikepacking weekend is a two-day and one-night event that covers almost ~100 miles of diverse terrain in New England.  This ride is intended to be fun, give you a chance to enjoy bikepacking with others who love to bikepack, give you a nice way to do it for the first time if you haven’t done it before with a not-too-hard and not-too-climby route at a perfect time of year.  The event is part bikepacking and part adventure ride.

This is a great way to have a full weekend of riding, test your bikepacking setup, enjoy camping with others of similar cycling interests, and share the experience with your friends and family as well.

• Enjoy fun mixed-terrain riding over two days

• This is not a catered trip, we’re not bringing stuff to camp for anyone.

• We’re providing knowledge and ideas, ask questions and we’ll get you answers.

• Self-sufficiency is important! We are not providing mid-ride support. You are expected to be able to fix mechanical issues or ride with friends who can help each other out.

• We’ll teach campfire starting at camp and keep the fire going to stay warm at night and in the morning before rolling out Sunday morning

• We’re providing a comprehensive packing list so you know what to bring and are prepared for this and any bikepacking trip. We’ll email this to all who register!

Photo from a warm 2017 bikepacking trip called Maneha. The fire was hot and post-ride feasting/post-ride food coma Saturday night was memorable.

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Maneha is the ride that started it all.  We first scouted Maneha in 2010. It has evolved over the years and has brought a terrific bikepacking experience to riders of all backgrounds and experience levels together and to cool places. This ride is a close relative of Maneha, the difference being that this ride isn’t catered and Maneha was.

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Overview

The Autumn Overnight is a bikepacking ride on a mixed-terrain route.  We're riding everything from primitive 'goat trails' to good paved roads. There are lots of nice, smooth dirt paths and roads too. Everyone goes the pace that works for each person, some people will be riding loaded fat bikes at the rear and others will have 40mm tires and have a lighter bike setup.

Route Information

• Distance: About 50 miles each day. We’ll tell you the specifics of the route as we get closer to ride time. Be sure you have the fitness and ability to ride an unloaded gravel bike on mixed terrain/gravel 100km without excessive fatigue or body issues. This ensures you’ll have the baseline fitness and readiness for this trip.

• Territory: Central MA, there’s not a lot in the areas where we’re riding either day.

• Riding Options: Two day, Saturday only, Sunday only - if you have a non-riding friend or loved one coming up to meet you, you’re welcome to ride one day up and get a ride home. We are not transporting anyone to the start or from the campsite back to the starting lot. The price stays the same regardless. Just let us know your plans so we’re aware, that’s all you need to do.

• Gear Packing Options: There are no options: if you want it to eat, to sleep on, to wear, you’re carrying it with you! You are expected to have everything you need for a long-day ride on you where it comes to fixing mechanicals. This said, there is a nice place farm with food, drinks, woodfired pizza about a mile from the campground so you could cheat and grab dinner there. But be sure to bring it back to the campfire to enjoy the group dynamic with everyone!

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When:

27 & 28 September 2025.  Saturday and Sunday. Saturday’s Grand Depart happens at 9:30am. Riders are encouraged to arrive at the start (a parking lot at a train station) no later than 7:15 so there’s time to deal with all of the stuff on the bike prior to 8am. Starting on time is important!

Sunday’s ride back begins when riders want to get moving, this will probably be around 9am though this will be discussed around the campfire prior to everyone heading off to slumber land.

Where we Start:

Wachusett Train Station. There is overnight parking offered here.

Train Schedule:

The outbound train from Boston leaves North Station at 7:45am and picks up riders all the way west, arriving at the Wachusett lot at 9:21am Saturday.

The inbound train to Boston from Wachusett picks up at 6:25pm, arriving back to North Station at 8:01pm. The last train Sunday is at 8:55pm though we expect all riders will have ample time to get to the 6:25pm train. The next earliest train is at 4:25pm for faster riders.

Where we Camp:  

We have campsites reserved together for riders in the Lamb City campground in Philipston, MA. NEER buys wood for a fire/fires everyone can enjoy.

There are showers, picnic tables, electricity to recharge your electronics, campfire rings, a campground (small) store if you forgot something.

Why:  

Bikepacking trips are hard to find and it’s nice to have the opportunity to test your equipment, figure out how to pack your bike, and isn’t it fun to get two big days on the bike with nice people also out for the same? It’s important to do it while it’s still possible with the weather and campfires sure feel amazing at this time of year!

How:

Register at the NEER store!

Questions?  Email us at connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com

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Who can do the Autumn Overnight ride?

Any fit and competent cyclist with equipment that meets our minimum requirements and who is willing to abide by basic riding safety rules may participate.  Riding 50+ miles of mixed-terrain feels about three times that amount of road riding. If your bike is loaded, it feels even further. There are no time cut offs, you’re welcome to take your time. We do want you to be in to the campsite before dark.

All who register to participate in this ride will receive the following pre-ride:

• Equipment Checklist: This is a comprehensive list of what NEER recommends for participants to have on bike and body. It also includes a list of items we find useful on self-supported multi-day rides for your knowledge and you’re welcome to add whatever you wish for this ride.

• Logistics, Route & Route Notes by 7pm September 25: You’ll understand how the ride is being run, where you’re headed, where to be when.

  This information will help you prepare your bike, mind, and spirit for the adventure ahead. It includes recommended food and rest stops along the route. The information also includes tips on how to navigate difficult trails.

• Waiver: This ride is being insured by NEER’s insurance. Your NEER waiver covers your participation on this ride.

All details subject to change, all who register will receive every communication by email.

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"The staff did a remarkable job on a complex event. I can't wait until next year!" - C.B.

Ride with Your Friend Group

You can ride this ride as a solo rider or with a team/self-organized friend group (AKA team) ahead of the NEER-led group.  All of these ways of participating are fantastic and your choice.  Solo riders and slower groups will be encouraged to start earlier than 9am so there’s some cross-over during the day. It’s early and understandable if people don’t want to start earlier than this!

The last group to depart will be Super Domestique-led, and the Super Domestique will be riding a loaded fat bike so it won’t be fast, but steady.

• A team consists of as many riders as you want to assemble to take this on together.

• The team must have at least two people with GPS units for navigation along with backup batteries for the GPS units.

• The team members commit to riding together and finishing together.

Solo Riders

• Solo riders must have their own GPS navigation device with backup battery to charge the unit if necessary.

• Ride as fast or slow as you wish, we just want you to be at camp no later than 8pm.

• We prefer if you start earlier (we will be at the start very early so it’s possible to leave earlier and have a send-off committee). It’s nicer to be solo in a rider sandwich somewhere rather than off-the-back solo for safety and all of the positive psychological benefits as well! We usually have all paces show up to our rides so there’s a good chance your pace will be similar to that of others.

Display your location

We will have ALL riders display their location on the route via Life360 (not necessary to pay for an account for this), it helps us know where everyone is. This will take a little more battery life from your cell phone, so a backup battery is essential.

Non-Riding Significant Other Camping Option / Bringing your Family

Your non-riding spouse or significant other is welcome to join you for the weekend at the campsite at no additional cost as long as you’re sharing a tent. Please let us know if you’ll have someone meeting you at camp.

If you’d like this to be a bigger family affair, we’ll ask you to make a reservation with the campground on your own and we’ll credit you for the campsite space you won’t be occupying. Email us separately if this applies to you and we’ll figure it out.

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Sunday After the Ride back at the parking lot/train station

We’re expecting riders to arrive back at their cars/train at various times. Most people will be tired from the long weekend and just want to get home. There is no food there so bring some with you or have it in the car awaiting you for the few moments after you finish.

Contact Information - Call 413-461-7433 if it’s urgent

Email us with questions at connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.

CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.

Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes. Ring our phone please with urgent anything!!!

Riding Rules

All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by these Rules. Registering for this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.

Proper Bike & Equipment

There are quite a few bikes and setups that work great for bikepacking and gravel riding on terrain you’ll find on this ride. Your choices will potentially impact your speed relative to others. We don’t care how fast/slow you ride, this is up to you, as long as you are on a safe bike with minimum basics and arrive before sunset on both Saturday and Sunday.

• Required: A bike with 38mm tires or wider. Mountain, gravel, fat, CX bikes are all acceptable. Ideally, the bike will have 40mm knobby tires or bigger.

• Required: Flat pedals or mountain-style pedals should be used, no road pedals/shoes.

• Required: A GPS computer with the route loaded ahead of time if you’re riding solo. If you’re riding with a friend group, the group must have 2 GPS computers among members.

• Required: Backup battery to charge GPS computer and phone during the ride. (There is no electricity to recharge things at camp.)

• Required: Sign-on to Life360 or other service that you share with us so we can see your location you when you’re riding. We’ll share connection info with you in the pre-ride information email.

• Required: A bike that’s in safe working order that has been recently tuned and is free of creaking and squeaking. The chain should be lubed just prior to the ride. Squeaky chains and noisy bikes are unacceptable because it means there is something wrong with your bike and more might be wrong.

• Required: All of the tools for typical mechanicals. These are on the Gear Checklist you’ll receive when you register. Lots of extra “nice to haves” are on the Checklist too!

• Required: Cell phone and a plan to get back to your car in case your bike or body stops working - we cannot offer rides to anyone (per insurance requirements) and there won’t be a vehicle on the route.

• Required: Two full water bottles/other vessel with at least this much water at the start of the ride

• Required: Front and rear lights (do not need to be turned on if visibility is good but available), reflector on ankle or pedal (this is now required per MA law at dusk and later). Visibility is always a good thing for safety regardless of weather or time of day. Lights are important at camp too!

• Nice to have: Extra calories in your pockets to get you to stores where you can buy more.

• Change of clothes to wear after the ride at camp and for sleeping so you’re comfy!

NH Weekend of Gravel!

Details

• Enjoy one or both days and camping in between of two terrific gravel rides starting in Meredith, NH

• Time & Date: Saturday and Sunday, September 20 & 21

• Starting Point: Meredith, NH

• Distance Options:

  • 60 mi routes both days and quite different loops going in different directions each day!

  • Short option of 29 mi for anyone who wishes to go shorter either day

• Elevation gain:

  • A little less than 100 ft per mile, this is a hilly area but also offers lots of great terrain and views!

• Price: $0 if you’re just coming for the day. It’s $30 each for those staying over Saturday night, we’re taking a collection then doing a group food shopping trip Saturday evening for dinner (cooking out on the grill) and the remainder goes to our hosts who are generously inviting us to stay on their property!

• You MUST be a NEER member if this is your second or more ride with us to participate
  

Start Location

Meredith, NH - Parking is at a private residence. Address will be shared with all who RSVP.

Route Information

• All who RSVP for one or both days will get 3 route files: one for Saturday, another for Sunday and an optional shorter route if one doesn’t want to ride as far one or both days.

Pace

• We’re likely to split into two groups, a faster, stronger pace and a good endurance pace. It all depends on who chooses to join in! We expect to have a good turnout for both rides so everyone has people to ride with at their preferred pacing!

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• We’ll send a detailed email by 7pm the day before the ride, Friday night, with the route, instructions, and details so you understand logistics and exactly what to do and where to go.

• All of our Riding Rules apply. All riders are expected to abide by these throughout the ride. All rules stated here on this page or in our social distance protocol override any conflicting rules stated in our ride rule page.

Preparation

• Bring everything you need for mechanicals that pop up on gravel/mixed terrain rides. All the things you need for a flat, tubeless puncture, EXTRA TUBE even if you run tubeless, air, levers, chain breaker, chain pliers, multi tool, spare derailleur hanger if your bike uses these.

• Gravel bikes with 40mm or bigger tires are suited for the expected terrain.

• Be sure to bring anything else you might need taking into account the weather, your personal circumstances, your health, etc. 

• You will want to come prepared with extra food, water, and fitness for the distance.

• Bring your tent, change of clothes, everything you need to be comfortable camping if you’re choosing to stay over Saturday night.

• Rain jacket in case of inclement weather, etc.

• There is water and bathrooms where we’ll start so you can fill up prior to rolling out in Meredith.

• Waiver: If you think you haven’t signed the waiver in 2025, please do it now: https://www.newenglandexpeditionriders.com/ride-waiver (If we discover that you haven’t filed out a waiver at the start, you won’t be able to ride with the group, no exceptions. It’s a requirement of our insurance.)

Proper Bike & Equipment for this Ride

• A road or gravel bike that has 38mm tires or wider. 40mm should be ideal. Hardtail mountain bikes with strong riders will be happy out there. These are all gravel routes intended for gravel bikes.

• There is some loose gravel on the roads, and sandy spots. Expect anything and you’ll be ready!

• Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. Mountain bike pedals/shoes are appropriate; road pedals/shoes should not be used.

• A bike that’s in safe working order. Make very certain your bike comes clean, lubed, safety checked with fresh brake pads, and tires in good shape. A bike that makes any unusual noises - from a squeaky chain to any kind of other noise should not be ridden prior to being evaluated and fixed by a professional mechanic.

• There is no support on the ride so if your bike or body stop working, you’ll have to figure out how to return to the start.

Contact Information and How to Get Your Questions Answered

Email connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with any questions. Call 413-461-7433 the day of the ride to speak with the organizer on route. Please contact us via email prior to the day of the ride for all matters otherwise.

RSVP NOW! Be sure to select one or both days you plan to be there & the camping option if you’re camping & staying over Saturday night!

West Hill Dam Mountain & Fat Bike Ride

• Location: Start and end at West Hill Dam, Uxbridge, MA

• Ride Type:  Trails of green and blue difficulty, mostly flowy and fun

• Date & Time:  Sunday, September 7, 9am start

• Distance:  Route is 14 miles long (almost 3 hours prob) & there will be a longer extra riding opportunity for those who want more

• Price:  Free; see NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us

• RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form

Details

This is a great area for mountain bike riding with fun flow, not too technical so it’s a really nice venue for a terrific ride on mountain and fat bikes!

Pace

We’ll split into two groups: faster and endurance moderate. For endurance group, there will be re-grouping periodically at intersections so no one gets lost but everyone can ride at their comfortable pace.

Start Time

8:55am - Be ready to ride!

9:00am - Safety talk starts, then everyone rolls out

Distance & Estimated Ride Time

Allow 3 hours for the ride. After the 14-mile route we’ll be following, there will be an opportunity to try out other trails nearby to tack on another few hours on the bike. Do what you want to do!

Parking

Parking is at West Hill Dam’s parking lot. Details will be shared with all who RSVP.

Route

The route will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm the night before the ride.

Route Notes

Nothing specific. This is a mountain bike trail area so we don’t expect to be on roads for the first 14 miles. The optional additional mileage will involve taking roads to other nearby trails to do some exploring and other trail riding.

After the Ride

Anyone who wants to hang out and talk about bikes after the ride is welcome to do so. We’ll fill back up with water after the first 14 miles and then those who want to head back out will do that and everyone else can go on with their day!

Last-Minute Information

We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.

Contact Information

Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.

CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.

Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.

Riding Rules

All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.

Waiver

NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.

If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.

Proper bike & Equipment

• 2” knobby tires or bigger.  

• MTB clipless or flat pedals and shoes.  These are important elements of bike control. If you are an experienced cyclist who has used platform pedals and sticky shoes extensively, this is acceptable. No road pedals/shoes.

• A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned.

• High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires.  

• Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike.

RSVP to Participate in this Ride Now!

Please RSVP only after you’ve made sure you can attend. It is inconsiderate to RSVP prior to committing to attending since it affects the experience of the other cyclists in attendance. We understand that things come up last-minute. Be sure to email us if you can’t attend: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.