Wednesday Morning Training Speed for Spring
Date & Time: Wednesday, April 29, 6-8am
Location: Start and end Cutler Park, Needham, MA
Ride Type: Road Training Ride
Location: Start and end at Cutler Park in Needham, MA
Ride Type: Road Training Ride for riders of ALL speeds/abilities
Date & Time: 6am start, Every Wednesday in April and May, 2026
Distance: ~20 miles. The ride is always done just before 8am
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
Join in this ride to Build Strength, Speed, and Camaraderie!
Are you ready to elevate your cycling game in a supportive, fun group setting? Whether you're a seasoned rider looking to sharpen your skills or someone building fitness from the ground up, this ride is designed for you!
Led by our dedicated Super Domestique, it's the perfect opportunity to get focused, effective training that boosts your leg speed, overall endurance, and confidence on the bike – all while enjoying the early morning hours with like-minded cyclists. No matter your pace, you'll leave feeling accomplished and energized - and you’ll get faster, too.
Come join us – it's a fantastic way to challenge yourself without overdoing it!
How this ride is run
We start with a group warm-up to get everyone rolling comfortably together as we ride over to the loop where we execute quality laps from the parking lot. This is about 20 minutes. Then, we ramp up into hill intervals where everyone tackles them at the pace that feels right for each person. The terrain isn't overly steep or punishing – it's just the right setup for putting in solid efforts that build real fitness gains without pushing you too far. Think improved power, better recovery, and that satisfying "I did it" glow!
Each interval lasts about 6 minutes (faster riders might finish in around 5, slower ones closer to 7), and we fully accommodate all speeds with a designated regroup spot. Here, you'll catch your breath, chat with the group, and gear up for the next one – it's all about recovery and enjoyment in between efforts.
We'll kick off with a survey loop so everyone understands how each effort works, where it starts and ends, then the group executes 3 intervals for the first two weeks, ramping up to 5 as we progress.
The best part? It's totally flexible to fit your needs. Feel free to sit out an interval, ride at a leisurely pace, or even choose a shorter section for a quicker burst – it's entirely up to you. We're not about maxing out your effort or heart rate; the goal is sustainable pacing so you can complete the full session and cruise back to the Cutler Park parking lot feeling strong and ready to start the work day.
Don't miss out – this is your chance to train smarter, connect with others, and take your riding to the next level. See you there!
Distance
The ride is ~20 miles in length, about 1 hour and 50 minutes total. The first two sessions include more warm-up time to allow bodies to acclimate to the efforts. Regardless, we’re certain to get people back to the parking lot before 8am.
Parking
Cutler Park, Needham, MA
Route
Here's the Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42427386
It's called "20 GIDSIB Training"
GIDSIB = Glad I Didn't Stay in Bed
Estimated Ride Time
No more than 2 hours. We’ll try to get everyone back slightly before 8am, but not too much before that!
Route Notes
None. We discuss where we’re going easy and where we’re regrouping at the ride.
After the Ride
Everyone needs to get to work or start their day. We’ll stick around with anyone who would like to discuss a new bike!
Last-Minute Information & Weather Cancellations
We will email all participants (those who RSVP) with any critical late-breaking news. If it’s looking like bad weather the night before, we’ll email letting everyone know if the ride is on or not. Check your email first thing in the morning if there’s any question about weather, we’ll be sure to email late the night before with a decision or further information.
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 (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
Road bike with road tires. 25mm-32mm are the most common on this ride. Want to get faster on your gravel bike for gravel racing or whatever you do on it? Bring it!!
Clip-in pedals: This is an important element of bike control, especially given the speeds we’ll be riding and needing to climb hills as efficiently as possible.
Front and rear lights that will last the duration of the ride and WILL NOT blind your riding friends. Eye-piercing rear lights (look into it, does it hurt your eyes?) should be pointed downward or replaced with non-eye-piercing bright lights. All rear lights should be set on steady, not blinking.
A Tuned Bike: 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.
SPRING Forward into Road Ride Season! Sunday, March 8
Date & Time: Wednesday, April 1 at 6am-8am
Location: Start and end at Cutler Park, Natick, MA
Ride Type: Road Training Ride
Location: Start and end at Elm Bank, Natick
Ride Type: 100% Paved Road Ride
Date & Time: Sunday, March 8, 9am start (remember we lose an hour overnight!)
Distance: 57 miles
Price: Free; NEER membership is only required after the first ride you do with us due to insurance.
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Details
This is a fun road ride from Elm Bank in Natick (just over the border from Wellesley) and the route heads down to Diamond Hill Reservoir in Rhode Island and back!
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the last group to depart which will be rolling at a ~15-16 mph average endurance pace. Other pace groups will be 17-18mph and 18+ mph is possible if we have riders sign up for this pace.
Distance
57 miles
Parking
There is all-day parking at Elm Bank. Details will be sent to all who RSVP by 7pm the evening before the ride.
Route
The route will be emailed before 7pm the evening before the ride to all participants.
All riders should load the ride on a GPS computer so everyone knows where we’re going and it makes splitting into groups easier.
Start Time & Estimated Ride Time
We’ll be at the starting parking lot by 8:30am so look for the big, red van when you arrive. Please arrive with enough time to get ready that allows you to roll out on time with the group at 9am promptly.
Allow ~4.5 hours for the ride if you’re in the “endurance” pace group.
Route Notes & Food/Water Stops
Bring extra calories and 2 full water bottles.
There is one stop for food at a large grocery store a little over 1/2 way in the ride.
After the Ride
A Seven Cycles representative will be around post ride to host demo riders at Elm Bank and will be available to discuss new bikes with anyone who wants to meet up or hang out after the ride to do this! Be sure to email Seven at info@sevencycles.com if this interests you.
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news if there is any. We email ALL RSVPs by 7pm the evening before the ride. If you don’t see an email by 7pm the evening prior to the ride, be sure to email us so we can get you the information.
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
We require 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
Bring your road bike with whatever size tires you enjoy riding that will allow you to keep pace with the group. 25mm tires or bigger road slicks are appropriate for this route. A gravel bike is acceptable if you want to ride it and feel you can keep pace with road riders.
If the roads are wet/messy, please mount a rear full-coverage fender. If you don’t have one, expect to ride at the back!
Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. Since we are riding near to each other on the road, platform pedals don’t offer necessary bike control for this kind of riding.
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.
All Wednesdays in May: Morning Training Speed for Spring
Date & Time: Wednesdays in May, 6-8am (these rides will be posted just before May to keep calendar from getting cluttered)
Location: Start and end Cutler Park, Needham, MA
Ride Type: Road Training Ride
Location: Start and end at Cutler Park in Needham, MA
Ride Type: Road Training Ride for riders of ALL speeds/abilities
Date & Time: 6am start, Every Wednesday in April and May, 2026
Distance: ~20 miles. The ride is always done just before 8am
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
Join in this ride to Build Strength, Speed, and Camaraderie!
Are you ready to elevate your cycling game in a supportive, fun group setting? Whether you're a seasoned rider looking to sharpen your skills or someone building fitness from the ground up, this ride is designed for you!
Led by our dedicated Super Domestique, it's the perfect opportunity to get focused, effective training that boosts your leg speed, overall endurance, and confidence on the bike – all while enjoying the early morning hours with like-minded cyclists. No matter your pace, you'll leave feeling accomplished and energized - and you’ll get faster, too.
Come join us – it's a fantastic way to challenge yourself without overdoing it!
How this ride is run
We start with a group warm-up to get everyone rolling comfortably together as we ride over to the loop where we execute quality laps from the parking lot. This is about 20 minutes. Then, we ramp up into hill intervals where everyone tackles them at the pace that feels right for each person. The terrain isn't overly steep or punishing – it's just the right setup for putting in solid efforts that build real fitness gains without pushing you too far. Think improved power, better recovery, and that satisfying "I did it" glow!
Each interval lasts about 6 minutes (faster riders might finish in around 5, slower ones closer to 7), and we fully accommodate all speeds with a designated regroup spot. Here, you'll catch your breath, chat with the group, and gear up for the next one – it's all about recovery and enjoyment in between efforts.
We'll kick off with a survey loop so everyone understands how each effort works, where it starts and ends, then the group executes 3 intervals for the first two weeks, ramping up to 5 as we progress.
The best part? It's totally flexible to fit your needs. Feel free to sit out an interval, ride at a leisurely pace, or even choose a shorter section for a quicker burst – it's entirely up to you. We're not about maxing out your effort or heart rate; the goal is sustainable pacing so you can complete the full session and cruise back to the Cutler Park parking lot feeling strong and ready to start the work day.
Don't miss out – this is your chance to train smarter, connect with others, and take your riding to the next level. See you there!
Distance
The ride is ~20 miles in length, about 1 hour and 50 minutes total. The first two sessions include more warm-up time to allow bodies to acclimate to the efforts. Regardless, we’re certain to get people back to the parking lot before 8am.
Parking
Cutler Park, Needham, MA
Route
Here's the Route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/42427386
It's called "20 GIDSIB Training"
GIDSIB = Glad I Didn't Stay in Bed
Estimated Ride Time
No more than 2 hours. We’ll try to get everyone back slightly before 8am, but not too much before that!
Route Notes
None. We discuss where we’re going easy and where we’re regrouping at the ride.
After the Ride
Everyone needs to get to work or start their day. We’ll stick around with anyone who would like to discuss a new bike!
Last-Minute Information & Weather Cancellations
We will email all participants (those who RSVP) with any critical late-breaking news. If it’s looking like bad weather the night before, we’ll email letting everyone know if the ride is on or not. Check your email first thing in the morning if there’s any question about weather, we’ll be sure to email late the night before with a decision or further information.
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 (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
Road bike with road tires. 25mm-32mm are the most common on this ride. Want to get faster on your gravel bike for gravel racing or whatever you do on it? Bring it!!
Clip-in pedals: This is an important element of bike control, especially given the speeds we’ll be riding and needing to climb hills as efficiently as possible.
Front and rear lights that will last the duration of the ride and WILL NOT blind your riding friends. Eye-piercing rear lights (look into it, does it hurt your eyes?) should be pointed downward or replaced with non-eye-piercing bright lights. All rear lights should be set on steady, not blinking.
A Tuned Bike: 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.
Sat. Feb 28: Snow Ride
Location: Harold Parker
Ride Type: Snow for fat bikes
Date & Time: Saturday, Feb 28, 7am Start
Distance: 3 hours of riding
Location: Start and end at Harold Parker
Ride Type: SNOW for fat bikes
Date & Time: Saturday, February 28, 7am start
Distance: 3ish 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
This SNOW ride appropriate for fat tires 3.8” or wider. We’re aiming for a 3-hour ride and will adjust the route appropriately on the fly if necessary.
This ride is early to be sure to be out there when it’s cold enough. It’s supposed to be quite warm mid-day Saturday.
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 14mph (probably more like 3-5 mph) with the winter clothes, big boots, snow conditions, fat tires, etc.
Start Time
6:55am - Be ready to ride!
7:00am - Safety talk starts, then everyone rolls out
Estimated Ride Time
Allow ~3 hours for the ride.
Parking
Parking is free and ample. All who RSVP will receive information and we’ll update this info here if we know early enough in the week where the ride will be taking place.
Route
The route will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm the night before the ride.
Route Notes
Will add these if any, once we know where the ride will be taking place.
After the Ride
Everyone who comes out will be served hot chocolate if you want one!
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
STUDDED 33.8” knobby tires OR BIGGER. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. We expect to see fat bikes at this ride considering the snow conditions.
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!
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.
Extra Salty Trail Mix - 150 miles
Location: Phillipston, MA
Ride Type: Gravel/Mixed Terrain Event Ride
Date & Time: Saturday, May 9
Distance: 150 miles
This is a challenging day on the bike and it’s set up with the intention of offering riders proper training for big gravel events such as Unbound, Michigan Coast-to-Coast and other big rides/races early in the season.
If you’re looking for a more fun day of gravel and mixed terrain riding, we’re hosting a 100km and 50km Trail Mix ride on Saturday, May 16. You can find information about this ride on its Ride Page.
Location: Start and end at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston, MA
Ride Type: Gravel & mixed terrain ride for your gravel, adventure, or mountain bike (any bike with 35mm or wider tires)
Date & Time: Saturday, May 9, 2026
Distance: 150 miles
Speed requirements: All are welcome if you’ve got the basics on bike and gear requirements covered AND you are confident in being able to complete the ride with a 10mph average minimum (not trivial for this kind of route).
Price: $75, Prices increase April 1 and again on May 1 - Register early and commit to your training now!
Registration deadline: Wednesday, May 6 at 11:59pm EST
Register on BikeReg.com.
Details
We are hosting this long, hard 150-mile gravel ride out of our favorite farm, Red Apple Farm.
This is not a catered ride; it’s done in the style of Unbound meaning you bring the provisions you want to see on the route; pack a duffel and we’ll transport it to a mid-ride stop location so you’ll have access to your stuff twice during the ride. There is a stop mid-ride in a town where food/water can be purchased.
We will provide all-you-can-drink water at the two mid-ride stop locations where you have access to your stuff.
Your registration covers staffing this mid-ride stop location all day and insurance.
The start time is very early in the morning (4 or 5am) and it’s a big day out there. We want everyone back to the farm before sunset.
Parking is free and ample at Red Apple Farm. There is unlimited water and bathrooms at the start as well. Riders have the farm to ourselves first thing in the morning at Red Apple.
Ride a well-vetted gravel route with your friends, a group of people who have similar speed aspirations for the day as you or ride solo.
Ride in an area without much traffic and where you're probably not riding otherwise.
Food and drink are on your own at the end of the ride at Red Apple. This allows you to get what you want and if you would like to bring your own food, that’s fine. This keeps the price of the ride down, you get to eat and drink what you want, and still get a great social atmosphere post-ride. All good things!
Red Apple will be open until 9pm so all riders will be in long before the farm and food closes.There are picnic tables outside, also plenty of tables inside.
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.
This ride runs rain or shine.
This is a low-budget yet very nicely put together ride.
NEER members receive a discount to their registrations.
Refunds: no refunds are available for any reason, this is a low dollar event. Your dollars go toward organization of this ride and myriad other events we host; your dollars are well spent whether or not you are able to attend.
Want to ride with your Friend Group or Ride Solo? Options abound!
Get your friends together and you get your own departure time. You’ll tell us when you register when you want to depart and who you want to ride with. You and your friends can stick together and enjoy this ride as a group (but keep moving!) If you want to ride solo, that’s fine too.
Everyone who registers will receive an email by 9pm Thursday, May 7 (two nights before the ride) with route information and exact start time information along with parking instructions and more.
What You Get
Good communication and organization, a way to ride in a cool area with others without being alone, having a quality social aspect to riding before and after the ride, know you’re supporting a sweet local farm that offers a comfortable experience!
A well-vetted route.
An opportunity to ride your bike on dirt roads, trails, and random back paved and broken roads.
A quality training ride that tunes you up for big event rides like Unbound! This 150-mile ride is properly hard and at the right time in your training schedule to allow you to feel confident. Unbounders have been using this ride as race training for years now. It works. We have many Unbound finishers point to this ride as being important in their training and prep.
No clock: this is not a race, but we do expect riders to average a bare minimum of 10mph (including stops) only because we need you to get in before sunset!
Get your Friends Together to Ride Together, Ride with a group we assemble, or ride solo!
If you want to do this with a friend group, please let us know that when you register. It’s good for us to know who is riding together for safety.
If you don’t have friends who want to do the ride, that’s fine, you’re welcome to ride solo.
If you would like to ride with a group of people you don’t know who are likely going to ride at or near your pace, please register for that option and we’ll do our best to get you a group to ride with.
There will be at least one group that will be averaging just above 10mph for the duration of people who are open to riding with anyone who wishes to join in the fun!
We will want to start solo riders first before groups so you’re seeing others throughout the day as much as possible.
Start Time
4am for those expecting to average close to 10mph average, 5:30am for fast riders.
You'll get an email with exact rollout times by 9pm Thursday prior to the ride.
We expect all riders to be done riding before sunset. People should arrive well before this time.
Pace
We need everyone to be ready to ride a minimum of 10mph average for the ride. This is not trivial given the terrain and 11,000 ft of climbing. There are ways to cut the route and we’ll suggest timing and mileage where it is good to make sure you’re there by a certain time, otherwise, cutting the route is a good idea to get back before sunset.
Feel free to ride as fast as you want, within the constraints of safe riding on open roads, of course. This is NOT a race, do not ride it like it’s a race.
Parking
Parking is in a large dirt lot that is free of charge. It’s a very short ride or ~4-minute walk to the bathrooms/starting area/Brew Barn from where you’ll park. It is very important not to park where Red Apple day visitors park. We send detailed instructions to get into the proper parking lot.
Toilets
Indoor bathrooms are open for all riders at the start/end. We’ll be set up near these so it’s easy to access them and the person who is organizing the starting groups for roll-out.
Your pre-ride instructions will include specifics as to exactly where to find the toilets and the start location.
Route & Route Notes
The route and detailed instructions will be emailed to all who register no later than 9pm Thursday evening prior to the ride.
Route notes and special things to watch for or to expect are included in the email to riders. We never have you do anything we wouldn’t do ourselves!
We never seek out gratuitous climbs. However, since we’re in central Massachusetts, there will be plenty of climbs and descents, for that matter. Climb at your own pace and hills aren’t as bad!
Elevation: It’s approximately 11,000 ft of elevation gained over the 150 mile route.
Food & Water During the Ride
We’ll provide riders with water and a van stocked with mechanic tools and your duffel bag with your food and supplies in it. This is exactly how Unbound is run, so you get access to your preferred calories and gear. You will see this support vehicle twice during the day, also similar to Unbound. Someone will be at the van with stuff all day until the last rider has come through as long as the rider maintains a 10mph average. After this point, all riders’ bags are transported back to the farm for retrieval upon the completion of your ride. We include details of how these logistics work in the pre-ride email.
After the Ride, Food & Drinks Post-Ride
Enjoy food at the farm, ice cream, drinks on tap, and more. Red Apple has plenty of tables for hanging out together and the farm animals are right there, too. It’s a wonderful atmosphere for spending good time together!
Check out the Red Apple Menu. There is also brick-oven wood-fired PIZZA! (These are two separate businesses at the farm, you can order from your ride and food will be ready for you when you arrive!)
Red Apple has opened their arms to our rides since the start of the pandemic and they bend over backwards to help us all be comfortable while on their property. Their food is tasty and there’s a big selection of food and drinks including wood fired pizza and tasty brews; their animals are friendly and welcoming too! We want to support their business as much as we can by way of this ride! A lot of the food we provide to you mid-ride is purchased from Red Apple.
What happens if it’s rainy?
This ride will happen rain or shine. Yes, it’s possible to have a great day out there regardless of rain.
The roads and trails won’t be affected by rain or tires rolling through on them 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.
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news via email.
Everyone will receive complete ride details before 9pm Thursday evening prior to the ride to their email. If you do not receive an email by 9pm Thursday, please email us so we know you haven’t gotten information. Please do not email prior to 9pm 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. 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
This is covered by USA Cycling insurance, you’ll fill out the waiver online when you register or it’ll be emailed to you prior to the event to complete in advance of this ride.
Day-of Registrations and Last-Minute Favors
We would have to charge a lot more for this ride if we needed to pay more people to staff this ride. Therefore, check-in has to be manageable for a single person. Please do not email a few hours before the ride asking for special favors or show up at the ride expecting to ride. If you have a special circumstance, email at least 48 hours before the ride and we’ll work with you.
Proper bike & Equipment
A gravel bike is ideal, though a mountain bike or 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 ride slower in spots. Ride what you’re comfortable with. You know your skill level and what you’re capable of. Either flat pedals or mountain-style clipless pedals (like Shimano SPD, for instance) 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
Very nice to have: Extra chain link, chain breaker, chain pliers
Nice to have: Change of socks if it’s a rainy/wet day
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)
Extra battery and cords so you can plug in your GPS computer and cell phone to charge them in case they need more juice.
Required: Two full water bottles at the start of the ride
Front and rear lights if there is any chance you’ll be riding in the dark or in inclement conditions. 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!
A duffel to drop off with the support person in the wee hours of the morning, just before starting your ride.
Fat Bike Weekend Getaway in Bethlehem, NH
Location: Bethlehem, NH
Ride Type: Fat bike snow rides, 1-3 days
Date & Time: Friday, Feb. 13-Sunday, Feb. 15
Distance: Various distances appropriate for conditions with lunch stops and breaks included
Enjoy this Winter Wonderland!
Imagine this whole area under a beautiful blanket of snow! This is the house you will be staying in Bethlehem this year.
Location: Bethlehem, NH & surrounding nearby towns - an easy 2.5 hour drive north of Boston
Dates: Friday, Feb 13-Sunday, Feb 15
Not required to stay in the NEER house, feel free to come up for 1, 2 or 3 days
Price to ride with NEER: Free if it’s your first ride with us. The price to stay in the shared home and NEER membership requirements are discussed below.
Details
This area is picturesque and offers some of the most fun fat bike riding we’ve found, quite accessible from the Boston area!
Bike the North Country, a non-profit organization in Bethlehem, Littleton, and Franconia, is the sponsor of a Fat Bike Poker Run event over this weekend and we overlay enjoying their event with riding together, staying in a shared rental house, having a great time with camp fires, making food together, and sharing in the joy that snow and fat bike brings everyone. The reality is that we’re typically riding mid-day Sunday when the poker game is happening so riders are likely to miss it, but not really feel like they’re missing it since the riding is so good!
The benefit to us in riding here at the same time as the Poker Run is that these trail systems are really nicely groomed for this event, so it’s the way to find the best conditions of the trails. Besides, it’s fun to find poker chips out on the trails! We ask that you either participate in the Poker Run registration or make a donation to the grooming efforts in this area.
NEER is leading rides Friday night, Saturday, and Sunday at groomed PRKR, Bethlehem, and Franconia trails so everyone has others to ride with and there is a good ride plan to execute together.
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 has organized groups for the past two years and each year has been exceptionally great. Thus, we received MANY requests to offer this again.
Reserve Your Spot in the NEER House
Reserve your spot in the NEER house right away! Every spot was reserved within a couple of days of us offering this option last year and we ended up with a terrific group of people sharing food, conversations about adventures, campfires, and so much fun riding too!
Sauna for everyone to enjoy in the snowy landscape.
Kitchen in the house where conversations of adventures will be had!
View from the NEER House.
What you get with your NEER house spot:
Healthy snacks and tasty roasted apples ala mode Friday and Saturday evenings
Hearty, healthy, tasty breakfasts Saturday and Sunday morning - prepared for you by NEER! Includes real maple syrup, wholesome tasty pancakes (think whole grains, nuts and berries baked in!) and eggs + fresh fruit + coffee made with quality freshly ground beans
Dinner Saturday evening, healthy and tasty!
Campfires! We bring the wood, you enjoy the heat and the beautiful surroundings with friends old and new
This house includes a sauna. Enjoy to your heart’s content!
Reserve your spot with one of the options below! The sooner you reserve, the better. Some of the quantities of these will change depending on who registers for what since there’s a house max of 13.
The details of each registratation type are explained once clicking “Purchase” so you can see more of each of these before making your selection.
Join us for three days and two nights of a winter wonderland, great fat bike riding, and fun together time at the NEER house in Bethlehem, NH!
There are queen, full and twin-sized beds. Some are in shared rooms and others are private. There is a good chance you’ll be in a twin bed/bunk. Be flexible on your sleeping arrangements but let us know if you have specific needs/desires before registering if so. Preference of beds goes to NEER membership level, then to who signs up first for the house. Couples get priority for shared beds, but must register while the spots are still open! There is an item specifically for couples to register. This will go away when spots are sold. There is space in the house for people to bring their own air mattresses. That is a separate item offered. Total people will not exceed 13.
Join us for three days and two nights of a winter wonderland, great fat bike riding, and fun together time at the NEER house in Bethlehem, NH! This item is for two people who will share a queen-sized bed.
Join us for three days and two nights of a winter wonderland, great fat bike riding, and fun together time at the NEER house in Bethlehem, NH! This item is for people who want to bring their own air mattress and bedding (including blankets) for sleeping in a shared bedroom or living room. The first person to sign up for this option who mentions that you want to sleep on a couch (if this is preferable to you over sleeping on an air mattress) will get a non-pull-out couch. Please bring your bedding.
Contact Information
Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the weekend at 413-461-7433.
Don’t send a txt msg 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.
RSVP for the Rides
RSVP for the ride(s) you want to do over the weekend if you won’t be staying in the house, so we know when to expect you and you’ll get all of the riding information!
Portland, Maine Fat Bike Snow Ride
Date & Time: Saturday, February 7 at 10am
Location: Groomed trail area local to Portland, Maine
Ride Type: Fat bike ride
Distance: ~4 hours of pedaling
Date & Time: Saturday, February 7, 10am start
Location: Bradbury Mountain, near Portland, Maine
Ride Type: Snowy groomed trails appropriate for fat bikes, unlikely to be around snowmachines
Distance: 10 miles then extra riding and some exploring for those who want to go longer, 3-4 hours of riding
Price: Free; please sign a waiver and RSVP so we know who all to expect!
Details
This is a fat bike fun ride on great groomed trails at Bradbury State Park, very close to Portland, Maine! Come out and enjoy this beautiful area, ride with other fat bike riders who are coming up from the Boston area and who live in the Portland, Maine area! All who RSVP will receive a route, though trail conditions when we’re there may dictate route updates during the ride.
Pace
This ride is suitable for people with good fitness to push your fat tires! The group will ride fast enough to stay warm but it won’t be fast considering the conditions (snow on trails)! It’ll be good fun. It will be properly cold.
Start Time
9:55am - Be ready to ride in the parking lot - find the big, red van! That’s where everyone will meet up.
10:00am - Safety talk starts, then everyone rolls out
Distance & Estimated Ride Time
However far we can ride in 4 hours is approximately the distance.
Parking
Parking is $6 in the Bradbury State park lot for out-of-state license plates. Exact parking location will be emailed to all who RSVP. Bring cash for parking. Mainers pay less for parking.
Route
The route(s), starting location, and more information will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 7pm the night before the ride.
Route Notes
Dress appropriately for the weather since it will be cold out. It will be easy to overheat if you overdress (overheating/sweating leads to freezing). Wear layers so that it’s possible to start warm and then take some off as the ride start moving. Bring chemical hand & foot warmers if your gloves/boots are thin.
With this cold, bringing extra of everything is smart. Goggles and hand warmers are really good to have no matter what.
Any mechanical issue that will take more than just a couple of minutes will mean that a rider will need to walk back 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 and be ready for any issues with all of the right tools/tube.
After the Ride
We’ll bring a camp stove and boil water for hot chocolates together. Practicing boiling water in the winter is important since it’s how to stay safe in winter expeditions! It takes some time; if you want to bring your camp stove to practice, this is a great opportunity to learn in a supportive environment!
Optional - Sunday Ride Option & Saturday overnight camping
On Sunday, we’re headed north to York Hill Farm, another wonderful place to fat bike! If you’re interested in being kept in the loop for this ride, please email us connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com. It’s about an hour north of Bradbury.
Saturday night we’ll be finding a nice place to camp outside at a state park or public lands. If you’re interested in joining in on this aspect, email us! connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.
Contact Information
Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.
Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.
Riding Rules
All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.
Waiver
NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.
If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.
Proper bike & Equipment
3.8” knobby tires bare minimum OR BIGGER - 4.6” are ideal. Wider tires at lower pressures are nicer! Narrower tires won’t be welcome on groomed trails for the foreseeable future since they rut up the hard work groomers do.
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.
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 tell us you’d like to be on this ride!
Please RSVP with your interest in being on this ride. We’ll confirm the plan once the weather and trail conditions are known. If the weather is too cold for you and your gear, there is no pressure to attend. Do be sure to ask since we often have extra gear that we may be able to lend to you for the ride.
Be sure to email us if you can’t attend after RSVP’ing: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.
Thursday Evening Fat Snow Ride
Location: Start and end in Waltham
Ride Type: Snow Ride for fat bikes
Date & Time: Thursday, February 5 at 7:00pm
Distance: 10 miles
Location: Start and end in Waltham
Ride Type: Snow ride for fat bikes with studded tires
Date & Time: Thursday, February 5 at 7pm
Distance: ~10 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
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the group. We’ll ride fast enough to stay warm but not fast since it’s snowy. If you have fitness such that you’re capable of riding a steady 14mph on a road ride for 2 hours, you’ll have the fitness necessary to join in on this ride. No one will be dropped as long as you’ve met the minimum requirements set forth on this page. Average pace will likely be in the 3-4 mph area.
Distance
The ride is ~10 miles in length or 2 hours, whichever is shorter, depends on conditions.
Parking
Elsie Turner Park
421 Trapelo Road, Waltham, MA 02452
Parking is free and ample and usually available during snow emergencies here.
Route
The route will be emailed to all who RSVP no later than 5pm the day of the ride.
Estimated Ride Time
No more than 2 hours, aiming for total time out of 2 hours.
Route Notes
We discuss these with you prior to rollout. This route was developed for snow riding.
After the Ride
We will serve hot cocoa at the end to whoever is sticking around to enjoy it! We’ll have hot water, too, so if you prefer to bring a tea bag or other drink that you can heat up with hot water, feel free to bring it.
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 each calendar year. Please fill it out now.
If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.
Proper bike & Equipment
3.8” studded tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. You’re welcome to try your narrower studded mountain and gravel studded tires out on this ride. However, if you can’t keep up with the group, you’ll be on your own. Fat bikes are likely the best suited for these conditions, but it’s hard to know for sure until we’re out there riding.
There is ice out there so studded tires are required. No studs, no ride.
Mountain bike clipless pedals and shoes or platform pedals with appropriate shoes.
Proper Apparel: Appropriate hat, gloves, jacket(s), tights/pants, and boots for the weather. It’s always a good idea to have a pack of chemical hand warmers in case your hands get cold, since this helps heat them quickly.
Front and rear lights that will last at least 2 hours in the COLD (this means more battery is necessary than usual) and WILL NOT blind your riding friends. Eye-piercing rear lights (look into it, does it hurt your eyes?) should be pointed downward or replaced with non-eye-piercing bright lights. All rear lights should be set on steady, not blinking.
A Tuned Bike: 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.
Michigan Coast to Coast Gravel Grinder
NEER Travels for Gravel!!
June 27, 2026
100-mile & 210-mile route options
Takes place across beautiful Michigan!
NEER is traveling to Michigan this summer to participate (race?) in the Michigan Coast to Coast Gravel Grinder! There are 100-mile and 200-mile options available. The 200 miler crosses from the west coast of Michigan to the east coast offering a variety of terrain and lots of views of beautiful Michigan!
This is a great opportunity to ride your gravel bike somewhere totally new, take on a proper challenge on your gravel bike, and have a great group from Massachusetts to meet up with either for the trip out or once you’re out there (most will drive, some will fly).
Details about this Gravel Grinder are on their website: https://micoasttocoast.com/
Let us know you’re “in” for it so we keep you in the loop on travel arrangements and plans once we’re all out there! (You MUST register on their website to be entered into their event).