Saturday Snow Ride! February 1, 2025, Hollis, MA

Saturday Snow Ride! February 1, 2024

• Location: Hollis, NH

• Ride Type:  Fat bike ride

• Date & Time:  10am Saturday, January 20

• Distance:  ~3+ hours of riding, see details

• Price:  Free*

• * You are welcome to ride once ever as a non-NEER member, after this membership is required to attend

• RSVPs: Required, form is at the bottom

Details

This ride departs at 9am. We’re riding together as a group, everyone climbs at a comfortable pace, re-groups happen at the top and bottom of hills. No one will get dropped, we re-group periodically.

Studded tires are REQUIRED. Fat tires are going to be the best tires for the terrain, but studded mountain bikes might be okay. We won’t know until we start riding. The snow isn’t that deep, so maximum float might not be necessary.

Distance

The route is ~13 miles in length and there’s some elevation gain/loss so it’s not a fast 13 miles by any means. We’ll return to the lot at the end of this loop and there’s a very good chance the Super Domestique will want to keep riding so if you want to go longer, you’ll probably have that option. PLEASE mention in your RSVP if you’d like to take on a longer ride for another 2-3 hours.

Schedule

The big, red van will be in the parking lot at 9:30am, so look for it and park nearby. Please be ready to roll by 8:55am.

Parking

Parking is free in this very large lot:

130 Silver Lake Rd, Hollis, NH 03049

https://goo.gl/maps/Zj5Rdx7XzGRVq2gd6

As far as we know now, trails will be closed to snowmobiles. If the trails are open, this lot might fill up.

Route

The route will be shared via email with all who RSVP.

Questions? We’re at connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com. Need to reach us at the ride? Call 413-461-7433, this reaches the organizer/Super Domestique who is at the ride.

Estimated time

~3+ hours

Ride Notes

We discuss these with you prior to rollout. It’s all appropriate for 4” tires or bigger. We can’t speak to the exact quality of the snow. Be ready to take air out or add air to your tires.

Contact Information

Email - connect@rideheadquaters.com, Phone which reaches the ride leader before and during the ride: 413-461-7433

Riding Rules, What to Bring, How Our Rides are Different

All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. 

Waiver

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

The proper bike for this ride includes the following:

• Fat bike with 4”+ tires are suggested, but tires MUST be studded.  If you want to try a studded mtn bike, you’re welcome to, but no guarantees.

• A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. You’ll need to walk back to the lot if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.

• Always bring a spare tube, air, tools for taking your wheels off your bike, a derailleur hanger if your bike needs one and ALL of the tools you’d need to fix common mechanical situations.

• Bring warmer clothes than you think you’ll need

After the Ride & Longer Ride Option for those who want more riding!

We’re serving hot chocolate to everyone who comes out before parting. ALSO there’s a longer ride option for anyone who wants to keep riding awhile longer so there’s a chance to refill your water before taking on more miles.

Buckley’s Market (9 Market Pl, Hollis, NH 03049) is around the corner from the Silver Lake lot (probably a ~5 minute drive) and they offer a nice selection of food and treats. It’s a good place to stop enroute to the ride and again before heading home.

Saturday Blue Hills Snow Bike Ride

A NEER group went out on a scouting ride at Blue Hills last fall (don’t dress like this for a mountain bike ride in August)!

• Location: Start and end at the Blue Hills, Milton, MA

• Ride Type:  Ride appropriate for bikes with studded tires (studded tires required), bikes such as hardtail mountain, fat, dual suspension all appropriate

• Date & Time:  Saturday, January 25, 9am start

• Distance options: 21 miles, ~3-4 hours of good riding (the snow will make it a bit slower but smoother going)

• 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

We’re riding the paths and trails at the Blue Hills!

Pace: endurance zone 2-3 for most cyclists - if you can average 15/16mph on a road bike on a paved road for 2+ hours, you’ll be fit enough for this ride. The pace on a mountain bike ride is much slower than a road ride so expect the ride to take ~3 hours to complete.

We’re likely to split into two pace groups with a Super Domestique pulling up the end at a very low-low moderate pace (Super Domestique coming back from illness so will be taking it especially easy).

This is a fun route, not that technical and snow smooths everything out too so there’s nothing “hard core” or crazy mountain biking required to enjoy this route immensely.

Distance

The ride is ~21 miles long.

Parking

Houghton’s Pond Parking Area

Blue Hills, Milton, MA

Link to the parking lot & where to park: PIN

Route

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

Estimated Ride Time

~3-4 hours. There is a spot at mile 10 to cut the route short for riders who want a shorter day on the bike. Details will be emailed to everyone who RSVPs.

Route Notes

These trails are not particularly technical, there is some climbing, they’re a lot of fun to ride. There is no pressure ever to ride anything you prefer to walk.

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

• Studded tires are required since there’s likely ice out there.

• 2” knobby tires minimum.  Wider tires are nicer! Ideal: 40mm or wider. We expect to see hardtail mountain bikes, dual suspension, and fat bikes on this ride. Tire choice depends on your riding skill set.

• 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 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.  

• 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.

Saturday Morning Mixed Terrain Ride

• Location: Start and end near Bedford, MA

• Ride Type:  Mixed Terrain ride for gravel bikes, hardtail mountain bikes or fat bikes

• Date & Time:  Saturday, January 18, 9am start

• Distance:  18 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 leads cyclists to many back roads, plenty of dirt paths and trails for a total of 18 miles. This is on the more techy side of mixed terrain riding but nothing crazy for those who are used to riding mixed terrain (more technical than gravel riding).

Pace: endurance zone 2-3 for most cyclists - if you can average 15/16mph on a road bike on a paved road for 2+ hours, you’ll be fit enough for this ride. The pace on a mixed terrain ride is much slower than a road ride so expect the ride to take ~2.5-3 hours to complete.

Distance

The ride is 18 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

After the Ride

Enjoy social time together at Revolution Hall where we’ll talk about upcoming rides for this year, review people’s goal rides and simply enjoy kicking off the year with talking about bikes and riding them!!

Route Notes

This route offers a wide variety of terrain and trail types. Expect roots, rocks, a steep-ish hill or two, and a bit more technical terrain than the majority of our mixed terrain rides. 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.

• Studded tires are strongly recommended. There may or may not be ice out there, but with the temps we’ve had, there will be ice, generally, in this area, and studded tires help guard against surprise slip outs (which are worse if they’re on ice).

• 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 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.  

• 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.

Fat Bike Weekend Getaway in Bethlehem, NH

Imagine this whole area under a beautiful blanket of snow!

• Location: Bethlehem, NH & surrounding nearby towns - an easy 2 hour drive north of Boston

• Dates:  Friday, Feb 14-Feb 16, exact schedule will be shared closer to this weekend

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

Details

This area is picturesque and offers some of the most fun fat bike riding we’ve found! We’re joining in on the fun of the Fat Bike Poker Ride, NEER is leading rides both Saturday and Sunday at groomed Prkr, Bethlehem, and Laconia trails so people have others to ride with and have a good ride plan to execute.

Detailed Information and Ride Schedule

We will email all who express interest in the rides with further information so you know how everything will be organized.

NEER organized a group to do this last year and everyone couldn’t wait to return it was so much fun!

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.

Be sure to email us with questions: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.

Saturday Snowy Adventure

• Location: Start and end in Rutland, MA

• Ride Type:  SNOW Mixed Terrain Ride for fat bikes with studded tires (mtbs are likely to be good on the terrain as well, will update you)

• Date & Time:  Saturday, December 28, 8am start

• Distance:  20-30 miles, lots of ways to cut it short if needed, expected ride time: ~4 hours

• 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 snow ride takes cyclists on the interesting paths in Rutland, around old prison camps, in a quiet, beautiful snowy wonderland.

There is ice on the ground, thus studded tires are required. Fat bikes are ideal, we’re scouting to see if mountain bike tires will work on the terrain as well.

Pace

If you can maintain a 14mph average pace on the road (on a road bike) for 3+ hours, you have the fitness you need for this ride. This ride’s pace will be much much less than this (probably more like 4-5 mph max) with the winter clothes, big boots, new snow conditions, twisty trails, etc. We’ll regroup periodically.

Start Time

7:30am - Get to the ride early and get your stuff on! We need to roll promptly at 9am so getting there early to ensure 100% readiness at 9am is a very good idea!

7:55am - Be ready to ride! Stay in your car if you’re ready early if it’s cold enough to freeze you before the ride starts.

8:00am - Safety talk starts, then everyone rolls out

If the roads aren’t safe to drive, we encourage you to not be on the road.

Distance & Estimated Ride Time

The ride is 20-30 miles in length, the route can be cut short easily in a number of places.

Allow 4 hours for the ride. Bring food and water to last this long, we’re not expecting to have anywhere to stop to eat or refill water.

Parking

Parking is free and ample at the parking lot. All who RSVP will get directions to the parking lot.

Route

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

Route Notes

The most important aspect of this ride is to dress appropriately for the weather since it will be very cold at the start and then warm up quite a bit. It’s going to be easy to overheat if you overdress (overheating leads to freezing). Wear enough layers so that it’s possible to start warm and then not overheat. Bring chemical hand & foot warmers if your gloves/boots are thin.

Any mechanical issue that will take more than just a couple of minutes will mean that rider needs to walk out to the car and the group will need to proceed or else everyone could be at risk with the cold. Please understand that the group will need to continue moving. We make sure to take care of people at these temps, so just do everything possible to minimize issues and have warm enough clothes that if you need to walk, you’ll stay warm.

After the Ride

Anyone who wants to enjoy a hot cocoa or talk about bikes after the ride is welcome to do so. We’ll make hot chocolates for anyone who wants one and be there at the big, red van.

Last-Minute Information

We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news. Be sure to check your email the morning of the ride.

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

• STUDDED 2” knobby tires OR BIGGER.  Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set and your raw power. We expect to see fat bikes at this ride considering the snow conditions. It is possible a mountain bike with studded tires will be okay out there too, we’ll let you know.

• Bright clothes - There could be hunting in the area, so we want to be highly visible to everyone.

• 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 any 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.  

• 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.

Metro West Mixed Terrain Ride!

• Location: Start and end is in Sudbury, MA

• Ride Type:  Mixed terrain ride for your gravel, adventure, or mountain bike (any bike with 38mm or wider tires). Fat bikes are likely to be in attendance as well.

• Date & Time: Sunday, December 15, 2024

• Distance: 41 miles

• Price:  No charge for NEER members, if this is your first ride with us, you’re not required to be a member, but you must sign the waiver (below). If this is your second ride or more ever, membership is required (for insurance purposes).

Details

We are hosting a really fun mixed terrain ride starting in Sudbury, MA. This route has many great trails, back roads, and paths. There’s a mid-ride stop at a nice coffee shop as well. It’s a great ride full of discovery, enjoying an area near where many people live but are unlikely to know a lot of the places and trails where this route goes!

Everyone who RSVPs for this ride will receive an email by 7pm Saturday, the night before the ride with route information and parking instructions.

Please don’t RSVP unless you know you can make it. We understand that emergencies come up last minute, and we need to know if you’re not able to come if you have already RSVP’d. This makes the experience better for everyone who shows up and it allows us to run a safer ride as well.

Pace

Expect the pace of the Super Domestique-led group to be “endurance” on the low side of moderate. It would equate to ~15mph if it were a paved road ride, except there’s a lot of dirt so the average pace will be much lower than this (7-9mph is more likely).

We will split into a faster and not-as-fast groups depending on who registers and what everyone wants to do. If you want to ride faster or slower than the Super Domestique-led group, please state this in your RSVP!

Start Time

Ride starts at 9am. Be ready to ride by 8:55am.

Parking

Parking is in a large public lot near ballfields that is free of charge.

Toilets

There may be a porta-john at the ballfield, but don’t rely on it at the start.

Route & Route Notes

The route will be emailed to all who register no later than 7pm Saturday evening prior to the ride.

After the Ride

We’re parking in ballfields away from businesses. We’re serving up hot chocolate to anyone who wants to stick around to enjoy it. If you’re in a faster group, it may mean you’ll return too early to get anything, but feel free to stick around!

What happens if it’s rainy? The weather looks mild and dry so we should be good.

Spitting rain wouldn’t be an issue, but cold, pouring rain would cause us to change plans. We’ll email all who RSVP should a weather Plan B need to be implemented.

At this time of year, it’s always a good idea to bring lots of layers since the temps change during the day, and it’s easy to overheat as well as get cold.

Last-Minute Information

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

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. 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.

Waiver

A NEER waiver would have been something you filled out when you signed up for NEER. If you’re not sure if you did it already, then do it again! Waiver - it’s required to be be signed prior to participating.

Proper bike & Equipment

A gravel bike or hardtail mountain bike are ideal. There will be fat bikes on this ride. Any well-maintained bike with 38mm 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: 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 canisters or hand pump, multi-tool

• Nice to have: Extra chain link, chain breaker, chain pliers

• Nice to have: Rain jacket, it’s that time of year to have this on you regardless of the forecast

• 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: Front and rear lights. It’s getting dark earlier now and this is for safety just to have these on your bike from now on this time of year. Visibility is always a good thing for safety regardless.

• Nice to have: Extra calories in your pockets

• Change of clothes to wear after the ride so you’re comfy!

Live Free and Ride Gravel Sunday

Details

• Ride Type: Remote paved and dirt roads

• Time & Date: Sunday, November 24

• Starting Point: New Boston, NH

• Distance: 65 miles / 105 km

• Price: Free

• Price: $0, but you MUST be a NEER member to participate
  

Description

This is a gorgeous, well-planned gravel route with others out there on it at the same time. It’s got a bit of everything (though averages out at smoother), all appropriate for gravel bikes and tires. Some people are doing the ride as a training ride so they’ll be on loaded fat bikes.

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

You’ll have co-adventurers, you’re not out there alone. If you’re a slower rider, the loaded fat bike riders are likely to be either at your speed or behind you so you won’t be the last rider. Send an email if you’re unsure of your pace and who else is coming out.

Please know that fat bike tires are way, way overkill for this route. Gravel bikes/tires are totally appropriate!

Start Location

• Starting Point: New Boston, NH

Route Information

Here is some general information about the route:

• Distance: ~65 miles

• We will share the route and ride details no later than 7pm Friday before the ride to all who RSVP before then. If you RSVP Saturday, you’ll receive the route by 9pm the night before the ride (so don’t panic)!

• The route has not been vetted this year so there’s a chance a road is closed or a trail is closed or conditions have changed since we vetted it. This route is not that likely to present big navigation challenges given its location and the roads/trails we’re taking.

There will be one group averaging a solid “moderate” pace to depart last at 9am. This is not necessarily a sweep group. Everyone up for a solid moderate pace is welcome to join in this group. These are riders who are usually comfortable with a 16-17mph pace on a 4+ hour road ride for comparison purposes. The pace will be less since the terrain is mixed with plenty of dirt and elevation and everyone is riding a bigger-tire bike.

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

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

• There is 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.

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, your personal circumstances, your health, etc. 

  • You will want to come prepared with extra food, water, and fitness for the distance. The route file will show where food/water stops are located. These aren’t fancy (think: Dunkin Doughnuts).

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.

Proper Bike for this Ride

• A road or gravel bike that has 32mm tires or wider. 32mm tires will work for riders on this route based on what we saw of the roads last year. 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!

Tri-State Mountain Bike Ride, Douglas State Forest

• Location: Douglas State Forest, Douglas, MA (near RI/CT corner)

• Ride Type:  Mountain Bike Ride

• Date & Time:  Saturday, November 16 at 9am

• Distance:  ~3-4 hours total ride time with option for extra 2-3 hours ride time

• 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

We have a designated Super Domestique leading the group & we’ll split into pace/ability groups depending on who comes out for this ride. The purpose of the ride is to enjoy fun mountain bike riding on a beautiful autumn day in an area you’re unlikely familiar. The pace will be moderate, with frequent regroups, we’ll let people get through it and then keep moving. The route is comprised of “green” and “blue” trails so it’s not overly technical.

Distance

The route is 21 miles in length. It’s just off of a great gravel trail so once riders return to the lot, we’ll serve up hot chocolate to all. Anyone who wants extra time on the bike for endurance base miles is welcome to join in for another ~2-3 hours of pedaling.

Parking

Park in this lot, it appears there is no charge since this is off-season in the state park:

Here is a pin to the lot, this is off of Wallum Lake Park Road:

https://maps.app.goo.gl/Zzx6vunErF8uUqfW6

Route

Will be emailed to all who RSVP by 7pm the night before the ride.

Estimated Ride Time

3-4 hours. We will be done before 1pm.

Route Notes

None at this time.

After the Ride

We’ll be serving up hot chocolate to everyone post-ride! Then for those who want to keep riding for base miles, you’re welcome to join for more - we might even cross over state lines to both RI & CT!

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 up until 10pm the night before 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 (NEER) requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out 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

• Mountain bike with 2” tires or wider are the most common on this ride. Some people are riding fat bikes. Gravel bikes will be too much “under” biked and not appropriate for this ride.

• Clip-in pedals: This is an important element of bike control. If you’re very experienced with platform pedals, these are okay.

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

• 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.

Thursday Evening Mixed Terrain

• Location: Mighty Squirrel, Waltham, MA

• Ride Type:  Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes

• Date & Time:  Thursdays in November: Thursday, November 7, November 14 (Full Moon!), November 21

• Distance:  ~15 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.

There will be rocks, roots, boardwalks, road crossings, and short sections of road to ride.

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 it’s dark out. We have to stay moving since it’s cold so come prepared.

Distance

~15 miles

Parking

Address for your GPS: 411 Waverley Oaks Rd, Waltham, MA 02452

Pin of the exact spot to park in the lot - it’s not next to the Mighty Squirrel since that’s for customers: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7EWmn2YTh66Nj2Xj6

Route

Please download the route on your GPS device, it makes it easier for everyone to know which turn is coming next.

All who RSVP will receive the route in your inbox prior to the ride.

Start time, Estimated Ride Time

Start: 7pm, be ready to roll by 6:55pm

Ride time: Expect this to take a full 2 hours.

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.

After the Ride

Some riders will enjoy having a hot coca with us in the parking lot. We’re serving hot chocolate after this ride now that it’s chillier and hot chocolate really hits the spot! Mighty Squirrel is open and they serve beer, hot (large) pretzels, chips and guac, that sort of cuisine. It’s fun to hang out for a few minutes 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

• 35mm 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, 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.  Ask us if you’re not sure where to set your tire pressure.

• 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.