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.

---

• 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.

First Snow Ride - 2024/2025

• Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride / Roads and snow-covered trails - over 80% of the ride is on dirt trails

• Location: Waltham/Belmont. Exact location will be announced closer to when we expect the first snow to hit

• Date & Time: Right after the first “official” snow hits!

• Distance: ~10 miles, approx 2 hrs, condition-dependent

• Price: Free, but you must be a NEER Member to attend (use this as your excuse to join up since we have a full year of awesome rides ahead!!!)

• Please RSVP in the form below if you hope to join in on this ride. We’ll ask for a more definite RSVP once the “go time” becomes clearer

• #rscfirstsnow

In 2017, we had a huge turnout for the first snow ride which hit early in the afternoon on a Saturday!

Important Ride Updates Last Update: 31 October 2024 2:00pm - posting this information so everyone can start prepping for the first snow ride this season!

Details: When the first snow comes to eastern Massachusetts, we ride in it regardless of the time of day or day of the week. This is our 10th year hosting this memorable and much-too-fun ride!

Starting/ending Location: The ride will begin in Belmont/Waltham. Exact location will be shared with all who RSVP.

Route:  The route will be emailed to those who have registered if time permits. We’ll have at least one ride leader, possibly more, who will lead the way so it is not required for you to come with the route loaded.

Estimated time: ~2 hours

RSVP: Please RSVP below (at the very bottom of this page) so we know if you’re interested in this ride.

Required: Possibly studded tires. We will determine this based on conditions. You might as well get the studded tires on your bike now regardless of this possible requirement since they’ll be needed in the post-snow freeze/thaw cycle which brings ice.

New snow falling on the frozen ground will turn to ice. If the ground isn’t frozen, there won’t be ice yet.

Front and rear lights are required anytime we’re riding in hard-to-see conditions which includes falling snow and/or night.

Ride Notes:  The pace is based on conditions. We don't ride too slowly because we'd get cold, we don't ride too fast because that wouldn't be safe with the snow. We will ride spaced out with a leader or two. Be sure to come prepared with the right bike & tires, and proper attire for the conditions and temperature.

The pace assumes riders who attend have adequate fitness to keep up on a 14mph avg road ride, if riders were on road bikes on a road ride. This is not that kind of a ride, of course, but that is the best way to describe the amount of fitness necessary to ensure you’ll have a good time.

Read on below, there is a lot to this ride and how it works. Be sure to understand it to be able to participate in it! KEEP READING - lots more information is further down this page.

Last Minute Information: We’ll send all who RSVP below an email - check your spam boxes and you’ll know if you’re getting our emails since we’ll email at least a day ahead to tell you where to go and further details.

Contact Information:  Email - connect@rideheadquarters.com, Phone - (413)-461-7433 - we receive voicemails left at this phone number regardless of where we are.

Riding Rules

• Everyone who chooses to participate in this ride must be comfortable with the protocols.

• All of our Riding Rules apply. Read and digest them before the ride. All riders are expected to abide by these throughout the ride. All rules stated here on this page override any conflicting rules stated in our ride rule page.
  
  Waiver:  When you join NEER, you’ll sign a waiver that applies for the year. Only NEER members may participate in this ride.

First Snow Nitty Gritty Details

One of our favorite pastimes is riding in snowfall.  You can hear the snow crunching under your tires.  It’s such a quiet time; all sound is suppressed by the snowfall.  No one is out on the roads and trails.  The world feels primitive and peaceful.

The moment of the first snowfall is THE time to ride. We are leading a ride when this first snow hits!

We are ready.  Are you?

Ride Synopsis

• We are leading a ride that begins very soon (1-2 hours) after the first snow of the season begins. We define the first snow as having accumulation of approximately 1” of snow at “go” time, and the forecast must predict that it will snow for the duration of the ride. This means the prediction will need to be for 4+ hours of snow fall, at least.

• For 2024’s ride: we’re seeing a lot of snow on the way so we are likely to set the start time a little earlier knowing it’ll be accumulating and we want everyone to be able to get home before there’s too much accumulation!

• We won’t be riding if the snow isn’t going to last for the duration of the ride.

• Most important to note: GO time is decided with at least 1 hour of notice for you, more if possible. So be ready and keep checking your email for our updates to know when it will hit. We try to get ahead of notifying you when it sounds like it might be happening a day or two in advance, depending on the weather forecast.

• The ride will be 90 minutes to 2 hours in length total. The distance of the route will take into account how hard the snow is falling & how fast the ride will be.

• The route is mixed terrain. Expect to be on- and off-road, on trails and through woods with some back roads too.

• The pace of the ride will be high enough to keep everyone working hard. This way, everyone stays warm. This doesn’t mean we’ll be moving fast considering studded tires and winter setups aren’t exactly fast. No one gets dropped.

Here’s How We Plan for the First Snow

• Be flexible. We have no idea when it’s going to snow. It’s most common for snowfall to occur during the afternoon but it could be 2am or any other time. A mindset focused on the ride, rather than when the ride will occur, is helpful.

• Be ready. Have a Snow Essentials Duffel packed and with you at all times – we provide some content hints below. Have your bike ready to go.

• The Right Tires: Studded tires may be required for this ride. Once the first snow falls you will very likely want to be riding studs for the rest of the winter since ice will be much more likely with the freeze/thaw of winter temps during the day and amount of precipitation.

• Headlight & Taillight: Whether we’re riding at 2pm or 2am, you have to have at least one headlight and taillight to join us. Snowfall makes it really difficult for drivers to see cyclists. A headlight and taillight will help a great deal with visibility for everyone. Make sure you charge those lights a few days in advance. If you’re looking to upgrade your lights, we stock very good lights and can bring them to you already charged!

First Snow History

In 2024, the first snow hit on January 6 late in the day, we started riding late in the evening in the dark of night in Cambridge and experienced a city asleep while we soaked up the atmosphere…and the melted snow that turned to slush.

In 2023, the first snow hit on the MLK holiday, later in January - a Monday morning! We had a fun, small group come out and we enjoyed the morning from Revival Cafe.

In 2021, there was no first snow! It came Friday, January 7 of 2022 and we started riding at 7:30am, in deep, rideable fluffy power. About 20 people joined in the festivities and enjoy hot cocoa at the big, red van afterward!

In 2020, we were out on December 17 in a big snowstorm with a ride that started at 10:30pm. We started from Sherborn so it was hard for people to drive to it. However, it was magical and in the heart of the pandemic, it felt normal and so full of good feelings and community. Sharing hot chocolate around a fire after the ride was special.

In 2019, we were out on December 1st in the early evening with 30+ people. This was the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.

In 2018, we were out from 9:30-11:30pm on a weeknight in mid-November with over 40 riders.

In 2017, we were out riding at 1pm on a Saturday afternoon with over 40 riders.

2016 was an 8am Monday morning ride, the hardest time to find riders and quiet trails/roads of all - but we still did it!

2015 - This was our inaugural year. We were out riding with a “go” time of 3am. People came as far and wide as Jamaica Plain to join in the festivities!

Knowing When the Snowfall Ride Moment Arrives

We’re emailing everyone who RSVPs for the ride with timing and details and we’ll post frequently on Instagram as well.

This is the hashtag to use with all photos you post: #rscfirstsnow

Tricks for Riding in the Snow

• Traction: Snow riding is all about traction. Four ways of maximizing traction are:

• Apply steady horsepower to the pedals.  This is a lot more difficult than it appears.  If you’re riding at 70 hp on a snowy trail, a change of 10%, or 7 hp, is a lot – and can be the different between maintaining your line and losing traction entirely.  Practice steady horsepower output.

• Keep your bike upright, even while turning.  The more you lean into a corner, the less traction you have.  Most tires have less tread and fewer studs toward the sides of the tire.  Don’t lean your bike too much.  Riding upright keeps you upright.

• Tire pressure:  Lower tire pressure provides better traction.  Of course, you want to balance this with the possibility of getting a flat.  We find that riding on an inch of snow is deceptive, in that you feel like the trail is really smooth, when in reality, all the obstacles are still there – and just as sharp – you just can’t see them, so your chance of getting a flat probably increases slightly.

• Tires and treads:  Studs are best.  Wider is better than narrower.  Treads are better than slicks.

• Be careful. This may seem obvious but we see this as a fundamental issue each season in the first snow. Taking a tumble in the ice and snow can be problematic; these falls are fast, unexpected, and hard. Ride conservatively and don’t worry about winning.

• No fenders: Snow time may seem like a great time to have fenders, but it’s not. Not only are fenders dangerous on mixed terrain – due to sticks and debris on the trail, it’s also likely that your fenders will get packed with snow and make your ride a lot tougher.

• Batteries die. Batteries don’t like the cold so they power down a lot more quickly than on an autumn day. Three hours of battery life can become one hour – or worse – in the cold months. Keep your electronics warm – in your jacket or jersey, not in your saddle bag – until you need them. This includes your phone, backup battery, spare light, and your Garmin – if you’re not the ride navigator.

Likely Weather Conditions

It can’t snow if it’s too cold so it’s likely to be somewhere between 28 and 36 degrees.  Also, you’re likely to get a bit wet as the snow melts on you; gear that leans toward rain protection can be useful.

Always Be Prepared:  Snow Essentials Duffel
Have your Snow Essentials Duffel in your car – if that’s your mode of work transport – so you’re always ready to roll.  In that bag, we recommend:

• All the clothing you typically use for 30-40 degree riding. Clothing that likes wet conditions isn’t a bad idea, either. Note: We’re only including the gear that people often forget when they’re in a hurry, and riding in unexpected conditions. If you forget to put your bibs in your Snow Essentials Kit, we have no sympathy!

• Headlight 100% charged and ready for 2.5 hours of use. Ideally, two headlights – one on your bars and one on your helmet.

• Taillight batteries in good condition.

• Winter shoes or your autumn shoes with overshoes.

• Long thick wool socks

• Helmet – with light mount ready to go.

• Long finger gloves, possibly with liners.

• Three season cap that covers your ears. A brim will be appreciated – it can help keep the snow out of your eyes.

• Neck gator - doubles as a face covering.

• Protective glasses if that’s your kind of thing for riding in a snowstorm.

• High-vis vest if you like to be visible. If there’s ever a time to increase your visibility, it’s during a snowstorm; drivers have a really difficult time seeing cyclists through snowfall.

• Towel to dry off after the ride.

• Puffy jacket, a change of clothes that are warm and fleece-lined, warm cap and mittens feel so good post-ride!

Ride Headquarters Is Here To Help

We have just about anything you could need for winter riding, including:

• Winter Bikes. There are considerations to be made where it comes to the bike you ride in the winter. We have bikes that are great all year, but are extra special for winter riding. Check out the Seven Cycles Treeline bike: summer mountain bike, winter fat bike. Titanium is a perfect frame material for a bike that’s going to see the salt and harsh conditions of winter. A winterized bike is also important. For example, if snow is allowed into the brake housing, your brakes will likely freeze up. We can winterize your bike to keep your rolling.

• Lots of studded tire options. And the tubes needed for each tire size. We can help determine the ideal tire size for your bike and guarantee what will fit and what won’t. Not all studded tires are created equal. We can help determine the right price point for your riding needs.

• Studded tire installation help. Studded tires are often the toughest type of tire to install because they’re thicker, stiffer, and sometimes are steel beaded. We’re happy to help.

• Lights: We have the toughest winter lights available. We’ll help you determine optimal number of lumens for your needs. We’ll help you determine where the best mounting spot is on your bike or body. The best kind of taillight for visibility and longevity. So many options – all with different strengths and weaknesses.

• Gloves: We have everything from lightweight full fingers to deep winter 45Nrth gloves and liners. We have an array of models and sizes to determine the ideal setup for your type of riding. We can help with determining which are best for wet weather, for glove liners, or for the coldest days. Lots of glove options for lots of kinds of riding.

• Winter Shoes: We’ve got 45NRTH Wolvhammers in stock and will order more upon request. We’ll help you find the right size, and install cleats on your new boots, too.

We hope to see you in the first snow!

#rscfirstsnow

Come by at least 15-minutes early to the ride starting location so you can make any last minute bike adjustments. We’ll be there with the van with supplies, hand warmers, toe warmers, and any gear you’ve asked us to bring to the start for you!

RSVP with your interest in joining now!