Mixed Terrain Ride Specifically for non-technical Gravel Riders
Location: Start and end near Bedford, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain
Date & Time: Saturday, October 31, 2026, 9am start
Distance: ~25 miles
Location: Start and end near Bedford, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain ride for gravel bikes, hardtail mountain bikes or fat bikes
Date & Time: Saturday, October 31, 9am start
Distance: ~25 miles
Pace: Fun - everyone rides together at a slower pace, no one feels “slow” all enjoy getting on mixed terrain
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 mixed-terrain ride leads cyclists to many back roads, plenty of dirt paths and trails for a total of ~25 miles.
Pace: “Fun: - everyone rides together at a slower pace, no one feels “slow” all enjoy getting on mixed terrain and getting a chance to feel comfortable on the terrain.
Distance
The ride is ~25 miles in length.
Parking
In the large parking lot for offices just across from Revolution Hall:
3 Maguire Rd, Lexington, MA 02421
Link to the parking lot & where to actually park: PIN
Route
The route will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm the night before this ride.
Estimated Ride Time
~2.5-3+ hours, we will not be on a schedule, making sure everyone feels comfortable and has fun.
After the Ride
Enjoy social time together at Revolution Hall!
Route Notes
This route offers a wide variety of terrain and trail types. Expect roots, rocks, twisty, turny terrain, the typical stuff found in eastern Massachusetts. If you’re not certain about riding something, walk it, it won’t be any slower to walk than to ride anything like that anyway!
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
New England Expedition Riders 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
40mm knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Ideal: 40mm or wider. We expect to see gravel bikes, hardtail mountain bikes, and fat bikes on this ride. Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. Do NOT ride road tires since you’ll be flatting out there.
Clipless pedals and shoes or platform pedals. Clipless pedals are an important element of bike control. If you are an experienced cyclist who has used platform pedals and sticky shoes extensively, this is acceptable. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We do not allow road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not on a mixed terrain ride.
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. We’ll discuss tire pressure during the ride.
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.
Sunday Mixed Terrain Ride starting in Arlington
Location: Start and end in Arlington
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Date & Time: Sunday, November 1, 9:00am
Distance: 36 miles
Price: Free
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Location: Start and end in Arlington at the Arlington reservoir
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Date & Time: Sunday, November 1, 9am start
Distance: 36 miles
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 mixed-terrain ride takes cyclists to many back roads, plenty of dirt paths and trails for a total of 36 miles. This equates to ~4 hours of total ride time.
The route is a mixed terrain route so any gravel bike with 38mm tires or larger should be suited for the terrain. We’ll be riding a moderate endurance pace and focusing on minimizing stops so as to have a more focused ride.
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the last group to depart, if we split into groups.
Pace: endurance zone 2/3 for most cyclists - if you can average 16-17mph on a road bike on a paved road, you’re fit enough for this ride.
Distance
The ride is 36 miles in length.
Parking
Free, all day parking at the Arlington Reservoir
210 Lowell St., Arlington, MA 02474
Route
The route will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 5pm Saturday night, October 31. If you RSVP later than 7pm, that’s fine, the route will be in your inbox by 6am Sunday morning.
Estimated Ride Time
~4 hours
Route Notes
We discuss these with you prior to rollout. Note that a mixed terrain ride is rougher than a “gravel” ride on the dirt sections. There are a number of boardwalks. It should be dry on these so as long as you feel comfortable riding average width boardwalks, you’ll be fine.
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
38mm knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. We expect to see gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and fat bikes at this ride, the majority of bikes will likely be gravel bikes.
Clipless 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. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We strongly discourage road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not a mixed terrain ride.
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. We recommend about 80% of maximum rated tire pressure. Sometimes this is much too high, ask us if you’re not sure where to set your tire pressure. We like you to have more than enough air for these reasons:
We want to minimize flats on the ride; waiting for someone to change flats is not why we ride. We typically see zero flats on our ride. One of the primary reasons for this is due to higher than average tire pressure.
You can easily take it out, much harder to add it in.
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.
Brutiful Cape 2026: An off-season vacation paradise with super fun Gravel and Fat Riding
Location: Eastham, MA on the Cape
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel bikes & Fat Bike ride for Fat Bikes
Date & Time: Saturday, October 24 & Sunday, October 25
Distance: various!
Camping options exist to stay Friday night and Saturday night
Location: Start and end in Eastham, MA on the Cape
Ride Type: Gravel and fat bike adventure event ride! Mtbs have great fun on the gravel routes as well! (Routes are different for the gravel/mtbs and fat bikes.)
Date & Time: Saturday, October 24, 2026 - Gravel options + shorter fat option AND
Sunday, October 25, 2026 - 100 mile fat ride
Distance: 50km, 100km, 100mi options for gravel/mtn bikes AND
50km option for fat bikes on Saturday; 100 mi on Sunday for fat bikes only.
A 100 Mile VERY SPECIAL Fat Ride is happening on Sunday, October 25! 5th Annual running of this ride!
Price: $75-$105
Registration deadline: Thursday, October 22 at 11:59pm. No registrations will be allowed after this time for any reason.
Camping option offered upon checkout (at BikeReg) - stay right where the ride starts & ends! It’s a great area that we have on one full side of the campground so it’s fairly private.
Register at BikeReg.com
Details
This very special ride takes cyclists to many interesting trails, dirt roads, and pavement that connects the dirt sections on the Cape. Fat bikes go to some sandier places and a few beautiful beaches for extra fun. This is a sandy place meaning the trails dry very quickly if they get wet and there is sandiness on the trails in general. The chances we would need to cancel this ride due to the weather are very small. We expect to ride rain or shine and will only cancel if the weather appears dangerous to riders or trails.
If you’re a bikepacker and want to test your gear, strap it to your bike and come along! If you just want to enjoy a lovely autumn day on the bike without hoards of people on the Cape, this ride is for you, too.
Keep reading, there’s a campsite near the start of the ride if you want to bikepack out to the ride or drive from somewhere that’s further away.
100 Mile Fat Bike Option offered for Sunday, October 25
If you are a fat bike rider interested in a 100-mile fat bike ride option, we have this very special option running separately on Sunday, October 25. Every year, this ride is incredible and people who thought there is no way they can ride 100 miles on their fat bikes do it and LOVE it!!
100 mile Fat Bike riders experience the very best of fat riding on glorious stretches of beach, sandy trails, back roads, and just have a full day of joy on their bikes!
What You Get
Ride a beautiful place not all that far from civilization nor too far from where you started. It’s off-season on the Cape but before everything closes for the winter - a perfect time to be there!
A well-vetted route that takes you to places you’d never know to ride otherwise.
An opportunity to ride your gravel or fat bike with plenty of dirt, cool trails and beautiful beaches.
The chance to share the day with your friend group, ride with a group of people we match up based on expected pace, or ride solo without feeling alone.
A hearty, warm meal at the end of the ride to finish feeling satisfied from riding and not being hungry!
No clock: this is not a race, it’s an opportunity to enjoy riding your bike, take the time you want to out there, ride as fast or slow as you wish.
Get your friends together to do the ride and enjoy camping together right at where the ride starts and ends, it’s a mini-vacation for everyone!
Get your Friends Together to Ride Together!
We’re offering a separate rollout time for all friend groups so you can start together and stay together. Get your friends together and when you register, tell us their names. Your start time will not be more than 30 minutes different from the start time for the category you register for unless you request a different time for your friend-group rollout. We’ll accommodate as much as possible, just ask!
If you don’t have friends who want to do the ride, that’s fine, we are grouping riders of similar paces to ride together or you’re welcome to ride solo. We prefer to start solo riders nice and early so you’re seeing others throughout the day and not be the last rider out there.
Start Time Requests if different from the category start time
We’re happy to accommodate anyone’s start time requests unless it looks like it’ll get you back too late so please tell us your requests in your registration information. If you’re riding with a friend group and you request a specific time, we’ll assume everyone in your group is on board with this request.
Pace
If you choose to ride with a group of friends you or one of your friends puts together, ride the pace your group prefers! We offer a start time for your group so that you can start separately and stay together.
If you’re riding solo, you’re welcome to ride the pace you want as long as you have time to complete the route before we stop serving food. If you’re wondering about your pace and timing, email us.
If you select to ride with a group of people we assemble, then you’ve told us your pace and hopefully those who we match you with are around the same pace. There’s always a risk of the group being a little faster or slower than how you want to ride so come with the route loaded and be prepared. Our rides typically attract people in this category who want to ride with others so will alter their pace to appease others in the group so as to have a group experience.
Start Times
Start times that you see when you register are all approximate. We will roll out groups of friends, groups we assemble, and solo riders separately. You'll get an email with exact rollout times by 7pm Thursday evening prior to the ride.
Your roll-out time will be within 30 minutes of the time you’ve registered for and it’ll probably be a bit closer than that.
We expect all riders to be done riding by 6pm, that’s when the sun sets. We don’t want anyone out riding after dark.
Distance Options
Distances offered for gravel & mountain bikes are 50km, 100km & 100 miles.
A 50km fat bike option is offered on Saturday.
A very special 100 mile fat bike option is offered on Sunday. We offer this separately in order to give adventure fat bike riders a special day of riding and it’s a way for adventure fat bike riders to find each other prior to the winter since there will be many other adventure fat rides happening that this ride is great prep for!
Parking
The ride starts and ends at a lovely campground on the Cape where we’re serving coffee, a light breakfast, and after-ride warm, hearty meal. There will be plenty of chairs, places to sit and enjoy time together.
We’re offering a camping option at the campground (more details are further down this page) so you can park and start/end right there & be near us too (if you want!) We highly recommend you and your friends camp together the night before and night of the ride; we’ve had lots of people do this in previous years and have enjoyed a mini-vacation together doing this.
If you’re driving to the ride the day of the event, there will be ample and free parking offsite. It is close to the start. Those staying at the campground can park their vehicles at the campground.
Bathrooms, water at the start & end
With the start at the campground, bathrooms and clean water are abundant. You’re welcome to all of the services a comfortable campground offers.
Route & Route Notes
The routes will be emailed to all who register no later than 7pm Thursday evening prior to the weekend of the ride.
This is a sandy area. Both gravel and mountain bikes are welcome for the gravel-version of the ride. Gravel cyclists not familiar with sand will have the opportunity to get familiar with it! 40mm or larger tires are recommended. The terrain is special and really fun to ride.
For the fat bike routes: fat bikes are required with a minimum of 3.8” tires in order to properly enjoy the beaches included.
Terrain Description & Which bike to ride?
The routes may evolve prior to them being finalized. Weather may change the route at the last moment, too. Last minute road work also sometimes requires re-routing. The point is, these percentages are estimates and may change.
Percentages are by shown by distance, not time.
Percentages are very similar regardless of route distance. The fat bike class is the exception; see those differences below.
Total climbing: 4,300 ft.
| Cars/No Cars | Terrain | Percentage | Ideal Bike |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cars Likely | Pavement, roads | 20% | Gravel bike w/30mm slick tires |
| Cars Allowed | Dirt roads | 5% | Gravel bike w/30mm slick tires |
| No Cars | Pavement that's car-free, abandoned roads, closed roads, and bike paths | 10% | Gravel bike |
| No Cars | Fire roads and access roads | 20% | Gravel bike w/40mm tires |
| No Cars | Smooth Singletrack | 15% | Gravel bike w/40mm knobby tires |
| No Cars | Rough, abandoned, washed out, and class 4 roads | 10% | Hardtail Mountain Bike |
| No Cars | Singlegrack, tight, rocky, or overgrown | 15% | Hardtail Mountain Bike |
| No Cars | Trail Sand | 5% | Gravel 40mm knobby or wider, depends on how rainy it is just prior to the ride |
| No Cars | Beach Sand | 0.3% | Fat tires 4" or wider, Probably not rideable on a mountain bike tire. Definitely not rideable on a gravel bike tire. |
| For the Fat Bike Routes: | No Cars | Beach & Sand | 20% | Fat tires 4" or wider | This % replaces some of the above terrain |
Plant life on the Cape & Tall Socks
Cape plants are tougher than usual mainland plants, so they can be scratchier to your skin. We recommend wearing tall socks to protect skin from these plants and any insects, etc as well. There are some places where you’ll be riding through trails with plants that are overgrown into the trail.
Food & Water During the Ride
There are quality food stops on the route with stores that are open at this time of year that provide water and tasty food if you’d like to get extra things to eat while you’re riding. Free water is available at a number of stores so it doesn’t need to be purchased.
We charge less for this ride so that you have $ to buy food at local establishments. The routes we provide and pre-ride notes discuss nice places to stop for food and the route directs you through the front door of these places so you can’t miss them.
Our pre-ride email will include information on places to stop to refuel during the ride.
Support on the Route
There are no support vehicles on the route, be prepared to deal with the usual mechanicals by bringing tools and supplies. Have a plan if your body or bike won’t allow you to finish the ride. The Cape is quiet this time of year, but it’s not shut down, either. Cell reception is generally decent in places where we’re riding, though it can’t always be depended on.
After the Rides
Bring a change of clothes and a lawn chair so you can enjoy a bunch of social time post-ride! We bring chairs, there are tents to block the sun and any precipitation, we keep a fire going in the mid afternoon through evening Friday and Saturday.
We’ll provide a hot, tasty after-ride meal for all riders. We’ll be serving food until the sun sets and hang out until everyone is done enjoying themselves. Be sure you have completed your ride prior to sunset which is 6pm.
The end of the ride is at a campground so enjoy the atmosphere, campfire, food together, and if you bring a bag with a change of clothes for the end of the ride, you can change and stay awhile!
For Fat Bike Riders on the Sunday 100 mile route:
This ride starts early in the morning - 4am-6am (faster riders can start later if desired). However, we want everyone to arrive back before the sun goes down if possible. It’s safest to plan to take a nap or stay over on the Cape Sunday night after such a big ride. Don’t schedule any Monday morning meetings at work!
What happens if it rains?
This runs rain or shine. Dangerous weather cancels and we’ll offer a partial credit for a future ride based on expenses already incurred by the time we need to make the decision.
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news via BikeReg.com so make sure you get communications from BikeReg!
Contact Information
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.
Camping Option
We recommend staying at the Atlantic Oaks Campground if you’d like to camp at the start. We’ll be hanging out there Friday and Saturday evening.
We offer camping options in your registration if you want to stay next to us, right where the ride will start/end. This is the easiest way to camp since the sites are reserved and we can always reserve more; it helps us to show the campground how many sites we are reserving and using (helps us get invited back for future years).
Otherwise, you will want to make your reservation with this campground via calling them. Their phone number is (508) 255-1437.
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.
Waiver
The insurance for this ride requires a signed waiver. This will be shared with all who register to sign via an email from BikeReg.com.
Proper bike & Equipment
For the Gravel Routes: A gravel bike or mountain bike with 38mm tires which are minimum. Riders are typically happier with 45-50mm gravel tires or mtb tires on hardtail mountain bikes. It all depends on how technical of a rider you are as to which bike you’ll have the most fun on. The terrain is varied and really fun! If you don’t like riding on sandy trails, bring a bike with bigger tires. We don’t put gravel routes on beaches, but sometimes the trails are sandy. Amount of rain leading into the ride impacts the firmness of the trails and roads as well.
For the Fat Routes: A bike with tires 3.8” or wider is required due to the beaches these routes include.
For ALL Riders:
Required: A GPS computer with the route loaded ahead of time
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
Nice to have: 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 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)
Required: Two full water bottles at the start of the ride (there is running water at the start so you can fill up)
Required: Front and rear lights if there is any chance you’ll be riding in rain or before the sunrise/after the sun sets
Nice to have: Extra calories in your pockets
Gravel Rhodes Island Ride
Location: Coventry, RI
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride
Date & Time: Saturday, November 7, 9am start
Distance: 100km
Location: Start and end in Rhode Island (near Connecticut)
Special Requirement: MUST wear an orange vest/jersey for visibility - it’s hunting season
Ride Type: Gravel & mixed terrain ride for your gravel, adventure, or mountain bike (any bike with 35mm or wider tires)
Date & Time: Saturday, November 7, 2026, 9am rollout
Distance: 100km
All are welcome if you’ve got the basics on gear covered.
Theme: Have fun riding gravel and enjoy nice riding before we switch to winter cycling!
Price: No charge; see requirements for joining NEER after the first ride you do with us.
Details
We are hosting a really fun day of gravel and mixed terrain riding in Rhode Island (route will touch Connecticut some as well). This is a great opportunity to have a nice, long day on the bike on gravel and some mixed terrain as well.
Ride a well-vetted 100km gravel ride with our led group (moderate pace, the equivalent of riders who would be averaging 16mph on the road if it were a road ride which it is not), or a faster group, or your friends or ride solo ahead of the groups
Ride in an area without much traffic and where you're probably not riding otherwise
There is no on-bike mechanical support. We're starting riders off with gaps so that slower riders will be passed by faster riders at some point and will allow more overlap which offers visibility for riders throughout the ride. Riders are expected to bring all tools necessary for mechanical situations. Keep reading for recommendations of what to bring with you.
Pace
If you choose to ride with a group of friends you or someone puts together, ride the pace your group prefers!
If you’re riding solo, you’re welcome to ride the pace you want though we prefer if you start earlier than the groups.
There will be one moderate-fast group, possibly a fast group, and a Super Domestique-led moderate group.
Speed Definitions, for those opting in to a group we assemble for this ride
Your pace will be well below these on a longer gravel/mixed terrain ride, but use this as a gauge as to who you are likely to enjoy riding with!
Fun: You usually average ~13-14mph on a road bike, on a paved road ride of 30 miles in length with the usual hilly terrain we find in New England.
Moderate: You usually average 16-17mph on a road bike, on a paved road ride of 30 miles in length with the usual hilly terrain we find in New England.
Moderate-Fast: You usually average 18-19mph on a road bike, on a paved road ride of 30 miles in length with the usual hilly terrain we find in New England.
Fast: You usually average 20+mph on a road bike, on a paved road ride of 30 miles in length with the usual hilly terrain we find in New England.
Start, Distance & Estimated Ride Time
Start times that you see when you register are all approximate. We will roll out groups of friends, groups we assemble, and solo riders separately. You'll get an email with exact rollout times by 7pm Thursday evening prior to the ride.
We expect all riders to be done riding by 5pm. People should arrive back to the parking lot well before this time. We’ll pack up and leave at 6pm unless people are either all done before then or having too much fun, in which case we’ll stay for the party!
Parking
There is a large parking lot that allows for all-day parking at no charge where we’ll be starting and ending. We’ll share exact directions with you to this lot.
We’ll suggest a place to find a toilet enroute to the lot since there is not a toilet on-site.
Route & Route Notes
The route and ride schedule will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm Thursday evening prior to the ride.
The route is about as gentle in terms of elevation gain as you’ll find a gravel ride within a 90-minute drive of the Boston area! It’s a little over 4,000 ft of climbing for the 100km route. We’ll tell you lots more in the pre-ride communication.
Food & Water During the Ride
There is one stop mid-ride for the 100km route to refill water and buy calories. It’s not fancy (think nice, clean gas station), there’s almost no where in this area to refill.
After the Ride
Bring warm clothes to change into and hang out; there are nice places nearby to eat, it’s likely many will want a meal in a nice bar & grill before heading home.
What happens if it’s rainy?
The roads and trails won’t be affected by rain except for possibly adding more puddles for riders to avoid. We aren’t riding sensitive trails or areas where it would be irresponsible for bikes to go when it’s wet.
We will email if we decide to cancel due to cold rain, but we’ll try not to cancel for weather, we need to be outside this time of year!
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news via email.
Everyone will receive complete ride details by 7pm Thursday evening to their email, two days before the ride. If you have NOT received an email by 7pm Thursday, please email us so we know you haven’t gotten information. Please don’t email prior to 7pm Thursday wondering where your information is because we probably haven’t sent anything to anyone yet and your email will just slow down our ability to release information to everyone.
Contact Information
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.
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.
Waiver
The insurance for this ride requires a signed waiver. This will be shared with all who register to sign electronically.
Proper bike & Equipment
A gravel bike is ideal, though a mountain bike, fat bike or even road bike with 35mm tires or wider is fine if you know you’ll be able to keep the pace you’re signing up for with that bike. Riders with tires on the narrower side will want to walk a few more spots (around rocks, roots). Either flat pedals or mountain-style pedals should be used, no road pedals/shoes.
Required: An ORANGE vest or jersey that’s hunter orange and 200 square inches from the waist up. These can be purchased for $5 at Home Depot and many convenience stores. It’s the law!
Required: Front and rear lights - there is a chance you’ll be riding in the dark, the sun goes down EARLY in November! Visibility is always a good thing for safety.
Required: A GPS computer with the route loaded ahead of time
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.
Required: All of the tools for typical mechanicals such as:
Flat fix tools and at least TWO spare tubes (yes, even if you’re running tubeless tires), air via CO2 or hand pump, multi-tool
Nice to have: Extra chain link, chain breaker, chain pliers
Nice to have: Change of socks, waterproof socks (in case your feet slip into a puddle)
Spare derailleur hanger if your bike needs a spare
Extra clothes and storage capacity so adding/taking off layers is easy
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)
Required: Two full water bottles at the start of the ride
Nice to have: Extra calories in your pockets
VERY NICE TO HAVE: Change of clothes to wear after the ride so you’re comfy!
Sunday Ashland Mixed Terrain Ride
Date & Time: Sunday, October 11
Location: Start and end in Ashland, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride
Distance: 32 miles
Location: Start and end in Ashland, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Date & Time: Sunday, October 11, 10:00am start
Distance: 32 miles
Pace: Moderate with possible group splits for a faster-moderate and moderate with sweep rider
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 mixed-terrain ride takes cyclists to many back roads, plenty of dirt paths and trails. It’s a fun route!
The route is a mixed terrain route so any gravel bike with 40mm tires or bigger are suited for the terrain. Riders who aren’t familiar with mixed terrain shouldn’t make this your first mixed terrain ride - gravel is much smoother than mixed terrain.
We have a designated Super Domestique leading one of the slower moderate groups, likely to be keeping a rather chill pace.
Distance
The ride is 32 miles in length.
Parking
Ashland Center, use this address for your GPS: 41 Front St, Ashland, MA 01721
Route
The route will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm the evening before the ride.
Estimated Ride Time
~3-4 hours (likely closer to 4 hours)
Route Notes
We discuss these with you prior to rollout. Note that a mixed terrain ride is rougher than a “gravel” ride on the dirt sections.
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news. Very, very last-minute news is found on our Twitter feed (shown on the home page of this website in case you don’t have a Twitter account).
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
Ride Headquarters 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
40mm knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. We expect to see gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and fat bikes at this ride, the majority of bikes will likely be gravel bikes.
Clipless 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. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We strongly discourage road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not a mixed terrain ride.
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.
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.
Mixed Terrain Night Ride
Date & time: Thursday, Sept. 24, 7pm-9pm
Location: Near Bedford, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Distance: ~17 miles
Location: Revolution Hall near Bedford, MA
Date/Time: Thursday, Sept 24 7pm start, done at 9pm
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Distance: ~17 miles, 2 hours of riding
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 & Pace
This mixed terrain ride takes cyclists to many interesting trails with roads connecting them.
The route is a mixed terrain route so any bike with 38mm tires or bigger is suited for the terrain. Faster riders are always welcome to go ahead, we discuss how we manage this before the ride starts. Typically people come out with the interest of riding together, sharing the night air together riding a peppy, but not fast, pace.
There are some easy-to-ride boardwalks on the route, it’s pretty well ridden so not hard to navigate when the sun is gone.
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the main group. New-to-mixed terrain riders should try our weekend rides first prior to coming out to this ride.
It doesn’t mean much to talk about the average pace of a mixed terrain ride since it sounds a lot slower than it really is. We keep moving at an endurance pace but it’s not fast given the waning sunlight.
There are enough regroups to keep riders together and allow faster and not-as-fast riders to all ride a comfortable pace.
Distance
~17 miles
Parking
Address for your GPS: 10 Maguire Rd, Lexington, MA 02421
Pin of the exact spot to park in the lot: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ebJ1c1ufZA3bL4ZR7
This is across the road from Revolution Hall, please don’t park at Revolution Hall.
Route
Please download the route on your GPS device, it makes it easier for everyone to know which turn is coming next.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/56159336
Start time, Estimated Ride Time
Start: 7pm, be ready to roll by 6:55pm
Ride time: Just shy of 2 hours total
Route Notes
We discuss these with you prior to rollout. Note that a “mixed terrain” ride is rougher, twistier, and slower than a “gravel” ride. There are roots, a few boardwalks, etc to navigate. If you’re concerned about your ability to ride mixed terrain, do one of our weekend rides first.
This ride is a good “first” night ride for those who have mixed terrain riding experience but haven’t gone out at night before.
After the Ride
Some riders will enjoy post-ride food and drink at Revolution Hall if riders return before 9pm (food service stops at 9). Feel free to join in having food and hanging out afterwards if you’d like! Note: this route rarely gets riders back with enough time to order food before 9pm.
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news or anything that differs or needs to be communicated beyond what’s on this page. We will not send out a pre-ride email since all of that information is here.
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
38mm knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. We expect to see gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and fat bikes at this ride, the majority of bikes will be gravel bikes.
Lights, front and rear. Bring both front and rear lights with battery power to stay lit for a 2.5 hour ride. Correct, the ride is 1.5 hours, but if there’s a mechanical or if you accidentally set it too bright, then you want to still have enough light for the duration of the ride.
Concerning Rear Lights: A super bright and/or flashing rear light will blind the person riding behind you and it actually hurts that person’s eyes and can make it hard for that person to see. Please look into your rear light. If it burns your eyes, get a “group ride friendly” light such as the Super Flash ($25) - it has a steady mode and isn’t too bright.
Clipless 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, these is acceptable. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We strongly discourage road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not this kind of mixed terrain ride.
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.
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.
Mixed Terrain Night Ride
Date & time: Thursday, Sept. 17, 7pm-9pm
Location: Near Bedford, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Distance: ~17 miles
Location: Revolution Hall near Bedford, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Distance: ~17 miles, 2 hours of riding
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 & Pace
This mixed terrain ride takes cyclists to many interesting trails with roads connecting them.
The route is a mixed terrain route so any bike with 38mm tires or bigger is suited for the terrain. Faster riders are always welcome to go ahead, we discuss how we manage this before the ride starts. Typically people come out with the interest of riding together, sharing the night air together riding a peppy, but not fast, pace.
There are some easy-to-ride boardwalks on the route, it’s pretty well ridden so not hard to navigate when the sun is gone.
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the main group. New-to-mixed terrain riders should try our weekend rides first prior to coming out to this ride.
It doesn’t mean much to talk about the average pace of a mixed terrain ride since it sounds a lot slower than it really is. We keep moving at an endurance pace but it’s not fast given the waning sunlight.
There are enough regroups to keep riders together and allow faster and not-as-fast riders to all ride a comfortable pace.
Distance
~17 miles
Parking
Address for your GPS: 10 Maguire Rd, Lexington, MA 02421
Pin of the exact spot to park in the lot: https://maps.app.goo.gl/ebJ1c1ufZA3bL4ZR7
This is across the road from Revolution Hall, please don’t park at Revolution Hall.
Route
Please download the route on your GPS device, it makes it easier for everyone to know which turn is coming next.
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/56159336
Start time, Estimated Ride Time
Start: 7pm, be ready to roll by 6:55pm
Ride time: Just shy of 2 hours total
Route Notes
We discuss these with you prior to rollout. Note that a “mixed terrain” ride is rougher, twistier, and slower than a “gravel” ride. There are roots, a few boardwalks, etc to navigate. If you’re concerned about your ability to ride mixed terrain, do one of our weekend rides first.
This ride is a good “first” night ride for those who have mixed terrain riding experience but haven’t gone out at night before.
After the Ride
Some riders will enjoy post-ride food and drink at Revolution Hall if riders return before 9pm (food service stops at 9). Feel free to join in having food and hanging out afterwards if you’d like! Note: this route rarely gets riders back with enough time to order food before 9pm.
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news or anything that differs or needs to be communicated beyond what’s on this page. We will not send out a pre-ride email since all of that information is here.
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
38mm knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. We expect to see gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and fat bikes at this ride, the majority of bikes will be gravel bikes.
Lights, front and rear. Bring both front and rear lights with battery power to stay lit for a 2.5 hour ride. Correct, the ride is 1.5 hours, but if there’s a mechanical or if you accidentally set it too bright, then you want to still have enough light for the duration of the ride.
Concerning Rear Lights: A super bright and/or flashing rear light will blind the person riding behind you and it actually hurts that person’s eyes and can make it hard for that person to see. Please look into your rear light. If it burns your eyes, get a “group ride friendly” light such as the Super Flash ($25) - it has a steady mode and isn’t too bright.
Clipless 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, these is acceptable. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We strongly discourage road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not this kind of mixed terrain ride.
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.
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.
Martha’s Vineyard Off-Road Adventure Tour with Mike and Mary
Location: Martha’s Vineyard
Ride Type: Adventure mixed terrain
Date & Time: November 21, 2026
Price: $125 NEER / $195 non-NEER
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: Saturday, November 21
Distance: ~40-50 miles
Max attendance: Registration is capped at 25 riders
Price: $125 - NEER members / $195 - Non-Members
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.
A great bike ride! Enjoy riding your bike on awesome terrain hidden out of sight on Martha’s Vineyard!
Nice welcome gathering with warm, fresh baked goods and refreshments to start the day.
Light lunch/home-made snacks served mid-ride
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 riding down to the ferry terminal so it’s easy to figure out the logistics of making it to the right ferry and getting a ticket.
There are 2 ride guides and 1 professional mechanic guaranteed to be on the ride so you’re well taken care of, though we need 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, 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 Cat 4 NEER members / $195 for non-NEER members
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 or if the ferry can’t sail (forecast of light rain doesn’t cancel), money + time will have already have been spent on organization, food, and prep so a 70% refund 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 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 AND Current (2026) 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. Feel free to ask Mary questions during the tour on any of these topics.
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 lifetime 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!
Register Now - Select one of the following tickets
Enjoy a full day of incredible riding with Olympian Mary McConneloug and Pro cyclist Mike Broderick exploring the wonders of Martha’s Vineyard on your gravel or hardtail mountain bike. 40mm tires and bigger are appropriate for the terrain.
The day starts with healthy, tasty baked treats and hot drinks, there’s a mid-ride stop for snacks (also homemade), and there is hot food and drinks at the end of the ride before taking the ferry back to the mainland. The ferry boat ride for you and your bike is not covered in the registration fee.
This is a rare and special opportunity to hear stories from professional cycling at the highest levels, the stories of world travel, feel the positive energy of these genuine people, and have an exceptional day on the bike. Riding will be ~40-50 miles for the day.
NEER guide leads you from a free parking lot in Falmouth to the ferry terminal so all ride together and it makes sense on how to board the ferry. It’s gorgeous terrain, a beautiful part of MA, multi-modal, full of tasty food, good people, and it’s just great fun! Come on out!!
Note: USE your CAT 1, 2, 3 or 4 discount code when you check out to pay the correct amount!
Enjoy a full day of incredible riding with Olympian Mary McConneloug and Pro cyclist Mike Broderick exploring the wonders of Martha’s Vineyard on your gravel or hardtail mountain bike. 40mm tires and bigger are appropriate for the terrain.
The day starts with healthy, tasty baked treats and hot drinks, there’s a mid-ride stop for snacks (also homemade), and there is hot food and drinks at the end of the ride before taking the ferry back to the mainland. The ferry boat ride for you and your bike is not covered in the registration fee.
This is a rare and special opportunity to hear stories from professional cycling at the highest levels, the stories of world travel, feel the positive energy of these genuine people, and have an exceptional day on the bike. Riding will be ~40-50 miles for the day.
NEER guide leads you from a free parking lot in Falmouth to the ferry terminal so all ride together and it makes sense on how to board the ferry. It’s gorgeous terrain, a beautiful part of MA, multi-modal, full of tasty food, good people, and it’s just great fun! Come on out!!
Note: pricing is for Cat 4 NEER members. Cat 3, 2 & 1 get discount codes to apply when checking out.
Saturday Adventure Mixed Terrain Ride - Dragon’s Tail!
Location: Start and end near Bedford, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel bikes, hardtail mtbs
Date & Time: Saturday, August 29, 2026
Distance: 48 miles
Location: Start and end at Revolution Hall near Bedford, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel bikes
Date & Time: 9am, Saturday, August 29, 2025
Distance: 48 miles
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 mixed-terrain ride takes cyclists to many roads, back roads, plenty of dirt paths and single-track trails for a total of 48 miles. It’s probably 50% paved. The dirt sections are numerous and fun (and slower so they occupy a good amount of time!)
Any gravel bike with ~40mm tires or bigger is suited for the terrain. The terrain is not that technical where it’s off-road, expect (as always on mixed terrain): dirt, some sticks, rocks to roll over and around. There’s never any shame in riding these more slowly or walking something that you’re not comfortable riding.
Pace
We’ll split people into 2 groups based on bikes and speeds that are likely to result. Moderate Plus for those who want to zip along a bit more quickly and Moderate Endurance.
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the last group to depart which will be rolling at a steady endurance pace. If you can maintain a 15-16mph average pace on the road (on a road bike) for 3+ hours, you have the fitness you need for this ride. This group’s pace will be much less than 15mph (probably more like 8-10mph average).
Start, Distance & Estimated Ride Time
Please be ready to ride at 8:55am. We’ll start the safety talk at 9am and then roll out.
The ride is 48 miles in length.
Allow 5ish hours for the ride.
Parking
Across the street from Revolution Hall. DO NOT park in the Revolution Hall parking lot.
Address for your GPS: 10 Maguire Rd., Lexington, MA
Exact spot to park: https://goo.gl/maps/DXJyjgRdjp6BCqcA8
Route
The route will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm the night before the ride. Here is what it looks like, it’s a great mix of terrain and feels like plenty of dirt and the pavement comes at good times too:
Route Notes
A mixed terrain ride is rougher than a “gravel” ride on the dirt sections. We ride mixed terrain because it’s fun, gets us off of roads, makes us better bike handlers, and there is always so much more to see and experience when hitting the trails and back alleys!
After the Ride
Anyone who wants to enjoy a drink or food at Revolution Hall is invited to hang out and enjoy social time together! The ride leader will stick around for awhile post-ride.
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
40mm knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. We expect to see mostly gravel bikes, likely some hardtail mountain bikes too.
Clipless 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. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We strongly discourage road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not a mixed terrain ride.
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. We recommend about 80% of maximum rated tire pressure. Sometimes this is much too high, ask us if you’re not sure where to set your tire pressure. We like you to have more than enough air for these reasons:
We want to minimize flats on the ride; waiting for someone to change flats is not why we ride. We typically see zero flats on our ride. One of the primary reasons for this is due to higher than average tire pressure.
You can easily take it out, much harder to add it in.
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.