How often does the group ride together?
Our group rides are seasonal from April through October; earlier and later in the year if weather permits. There are two weekly rides; one on a Tuesday night and the other on a Sunday morning. Additionally, there are twice a month longer rides on the weekend.

How do the twice a month weekend rides differ from the weekly rides?
These rides explore rail trails throughout Ohio and Western Pennsylvania. They are longer in distance, 20-30 miles, and typically include lunch in conjunction with the excursion. The 2nd weekend ride explores the Towpath Trail and other trails within 1 hour of Akron. The 4th weekend ride explores more distant rail trails up to 2 hours travel time from Akron. Rides will alternate between Saturdays and Sundays.

Where does the group ride?
Our weekly rides primarily use sections of the Towpath Trail and Summit Hike and Bike Trail around the Akron area. Refer to our Meet-up events for specific ride locations.

How difficult are these rides?
Our weekly rides are geared towards the beginner to intermediate rider. Remember that we are also a support group with people of all physical abilities. These rides run on trails that are flat with little elevation change. You will ride a distance of 6-8 miles at a leisurely pace. Our longer weekend rides are ideal for the intermediate to experienced cyclists and ride over similar trails at a slightly faster pace. Remember we leave no cyclist behind.

What does “no cyclist left behind” really mean?
Exactly that! As one of our group riders, you agree to cycle at the speed of our slowest cyclist. Again, remember that you are supporting fellow riders with the development of their riding ability.

I am a more experienced cyclist. Can I still participate in the weekly rides?
Sure. These rides involve a 6-8 mile round trip ride as a group. At the completion of this segment, more experienced riders can continue on the trail at their own pace.

How many people go on your rides?
Typically 6 cyclists ride with us. Towpath Trail rides tend to be more popular with more people. Distant trails have less cyclists.

Can I schedule a ride on Meetup.com for other members?
We hope you do! Our weekly rides are the basis of our support mechanism for fellow members cycling for weight loss. If you are a group member, you have the ability to schedule your own meet-up.

Can anyone go on your rides?
Yep. We ask that you respect our “no cyclist left behind” rule and respect the varying cycling abilities of our members. Bring your spouse, significant other, friends and family to enjoy the trails.

Does this group offer road rides?
No. This group schedules our rides on bicycle and rail trails. If you want to experience road rides, there are several local road cycling clubs in the area.

What type of people cycle in this group?
We have riders of a wide range of ages and abilities. What brings us together is a desire to cycle to lose weight. Keep in mind people are on different points of their journey of losing weight and growing their physical activity level. You can get an idea of our diversity by checking out our photo albums.

I see many of the members have had weight loss surgery. Why is that?
This group was founded by members of local bariatric (weight loss) surgery support groups. A key component to a healthy life after surgery is to maintain an active lifestyle. The core founding members chose cycling as a means to achieve this goal. They work with bariatric centers to encourage other patients to join this group.

So, I have not had bariatric surgery, will I feel out of place in this group?
We hope not. Bariatric surgery was a tool that some members used to achieve a healthy weight. This type of surgery is not a guarantee of being a thin person for life. Like you, they must exercise and maintain a good diet to stay fit. If you want to cycle to stay fit and socialize with people who put an emphasis on diet and exercise, this group is for you.

Are there any charges for the group’s rides?
No. We hold an annual dinner and raffle to raise funds to pay for our Meetup web hosting and other expenses. We may have an additional find raising event or two during the year.

Are there any membership dues for this group?
No. Our annual raffle raises funds to cover all of our expenses. As a member, you can see our financial statement on this web site. We operate in a very lean and responsible manner. If you enjoy our meet-up events, please consider a donation to keep us fiscally healthy.

I haven’t been on a bike since I was in grade school , and I'm scared!
No problem at all! You have found a home with this club. Our members work on creating a healthy learning environment with experienced club members showing the ropes to beginners.

I don’t own a bike. Can I rent one for a ride?
Yes. Some of our rides will be at trailheads where bikes are rented. The meet-up invitation will denote whether rental bikes are available. We will attempt to include as much detail as we can to help you with the rental. Often, rentals are available relatively close to our meet-up locations. We hope to publish a list of bicycle rental facilities in the area.

Does the type of bike I own make a difference?
It could. Our rides are relatively short in distance, and travel across asphalt or fine crushed limestone trail bed with little elevation change. Most bikes are acceptable for these rides. Mountain bikes tend to have a bumpier ride. Road bikes give a smoother ride but with a little less traction on some trails. Hybrid bikes work the best. The occasional rider will most likely do well with any bike they have.