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Event ScheduleMAY 20061 MON10:30 AM B 29 mi. PINK EXPRESS. Depart from County Cycles, 2700 Lexington Av N, Roseville 55113. Park on Woodhill St. Ride past Owasso, Vadnais, and Bald Eagle Lakes. Marina Lim. 1 MON 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. and B 20-30 mi. MILES FROM MAPLEWOOD. Depart from the HealthPartners Maplewood Clinic, White Bear Av and County Rd B. Go south on White Bear Av from Hwy 36. Leave the city behind and ride into the countryside of Ramsey and Washington Counties. Kate Kovar, and Jim Pederson. 1 MON 6:00 PM B/C 15-22 mi. MELLOW MONDAY. Depart from Long Lake Regional Park main pavilion, New Brighton. Route varies weekly and may be map or mapless. Join us for a casual mellow ride round the northern suburbs. This is a stay-together ride. Weather will dictate the miles. Mike Daniels, Kay Mitchell, Dave Swaab. 1 MON 6:00 PM B 25-30 mi. MY OH MY MINNEAPOLIS. Depart from the rear parking lot of Sunrise Cyclery Bike Shop, 612-310-6698, 3031 2nd Av S, Minneapolis 55408, on the east side of 35W and south edge of Lake St. Sample the best scenery of Minneapolis via premier bicycle routes of many paved trails and some roads. Arrive early to check out the shop - water and restroom available. Leader rides at the rear of those who ride a B pace of 14 mph avg. Route scout: Jamie McDonald. Leader: Kristine Poelzer, . 2 TUE TCBC BOARD BUSINESS MEETING. Contact Charles Breer for info. 2 TUE 8:30 AM C 24-35 mi. AUGIE’S GATEWAY SOCIAL C RIDE. Starting/finishing at Maplewood Community Center, 2100 White Bear Av, Maplewood, MN 55109. It’s about 3 blocks south of Highway 36 and about a block north of the Gateway Trail. Park in the middle of the lot. All riders welcome. Rest stop at the end of the trail. Optional lunch after the ride at Panera’s, just 1.5 blocks north of Highway 36 on White Bear Av. Augie aka "The Gus Meister" Muller, 2 TUE 6:00 PM A/B 26/33 mi. GEARS, TEARS, AND FEARS. Depart from East Mississippi River Blvd and Hartford Av. Park on the south side of Hartford and in the three north lots of the Temple of Aaron. A classic hill ride and club favorite. Challenge yourself on St Paul's hills. It's easier than you think! Dave Erick . May 9 Lisa Dust, May 30 Pete Hawkins. 2 TUE 6:00 PM B/C, A/B 21-30 mi. BUNKER HILLS AND BEYOND. Depart from Bunker Hills Activity Center, 550 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW in Andover. Explore the northern Twin Cities metro area while riding through the open meadows and tree-lined avenues of the Anoka Sand Plain. Jim and Elizabeth Dohogne, . 2 TUE 6:00 PM A/B, B 24-30 mi. LEFTY'S WESTSIDE RIDE. Leave from Plymouth Station Shopping Center, two miles west of 494, on Highway 55, turn left on County 24. Park at the north end by tower. Rolling hills on quiet country roads. Joel Stenoien, Andy Danielson; Doug Duoos. 2 TUE 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. SIGHTS FROM THE HEIGHTS. Meet at Silver Lake Village Mall north of 37th Ave NE on Silver Lake Road in St. Anthony. This will be an A/B-friendly ride with hills, few turns or signals. Dinner option. Jim Elwell, 1st Tues; Dan Miller, 2nd Tues; Irene Erickson, 3rd Tues; Roger Schoffhausen, 4th Tues; and Mary Miller. 2 TUE 6:15 PM A/B 36/29/24 mi. THE ACAPULCO RIDE. Depart from the Acapulco Restaurant at 1240 North Frontage Road (of Hwy 36) in Stillwater. From I-694, take Hwy 36 east for 6.5 miles. Turn left on Washington Av (first stoplight past the Hwy 5 overpass). Take an immediate right on the frontage road for 1/4 mile to the Valley Ridge Mall and Acapulco Restaurant on the left. Dump the traffic! Relax on shady, undulating roads to Afton. Enjoy a taco or two after. Rain may force cancellation of the ride at the leader’s discretion, but we can still eat! Call me if in doubt. Bob Hoffman. 2 TUE 6:15 PM C 10-15 mi. BEAUTIFUL MINNEAPOLIS. Depart from St. Joan of Arc Church, 4537 3rd Av S, Mpls. (one block north and east of the 46th St exit of I-35W). This is a slow and easy ride. The group will ride together. Much of the ride will be on trails. Ride varies from week to week, and may be mapless. Edie Kalweit . 3 WED 10:15 AM C 25-30 mi. LAKES AND RIVERS ROUNDABOUT. Meet at parking lot above Minnehaha Falls pavilion. Park free on streets or pay to park in lot. Social ride along rivers and lakes of Minneapolis with lunch stop en route, possibly at Walker Art Center Museum. Clareyse Nelson, and Herb Schultz. 3 WED 11:00 AM A/B 30/40 mi. HILLS WE CALL HOME. Depart from Indian Mounds Park, corner of Mounds Blvd and Earl St in St. Paul, top of the hill in the park. We'll see if we can find a couple of hills to climb as we get ready for those Wisconsin hill rides coming up next month. Might even make it down to Grey Cloud Island if the roads are open. Michael McNutt, . 3 WED 12:30 PM A/B 35 mi. AN AFTERNOON RIDE. Depart from the picnic area just north of the parking lot near the Lake Harriet Bandshell. We will explore some Minneapolis and St Paul neighborhoods. Susan Evan (Web Ride) 3 WED 6:00 PM B 20-30 mi. RIDING FROM RICHFIELD. Pedal away from Woodlake Lutheran Church, 76th and Oliver Ave in Richfield, on this ever-evolving evening ride. Enjoy the variety as you experience a new and different route each week. David Gepner. 3 WED 6:00 PM B/C 20 mi. CRUISING COON RAPIDS. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop in Coon Rapids next to Lifetime Fitness. This ride is on a paved trail and on slow traffic roads around the Coon Rapids Dam and the Mississippi River. There will be a midpoint break, and after-ride socializing at a local coffee shop or restaurant. Phillip Lawson, . 3 WED 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. THE WHOLE ENCHILADA! Depart from the Roseville Professional Center (SW corner of Hwy 36 and Hamline Ave in Roseville - 2233 Hamline Ave No.). Park at the west end of the lot. Ride past area lakes and parks with the Speedy Gonzalezes of the group or at a more leisurely pace. Join your compadres afterwards at Ol' Mexico or other establishment for fun and refueling. Andele! Andele! Epa! Epa! Yeehah!!! Mary Derks. 4 THU 8:30 AM C 24-35 mi. AUGIE’S GATEWAY SOCIAL C RIDE. Starting/finishing at Maplewood Community Center 2100 White Bear Av, Maplewood, MN 55109. It’s about 3 blocks south of Highway 36 and about a block north of the Gateway Trail. Park in the middle of the lot. All riders welcome. Rest stop at the end of the trail. Optional lunch after the ride at Panera’s, just 1.5 blocks north of Highway 36 on White Bear Av. Augie aka "The Gus Meister" Muller, 4 THU 9:30 AM B/C 20/40 mi. THURSDAYS ON THE CANNON. Depart from Welch Village trailhead. Every Thursday from May 4 through September 28. Ride to Red Wing and return to Welch to complete the 20-mile option. Then on to Cannon Falls (40-mile option) for lunch at The Stone Mill. After lunch, it's a quick 10-mile downhill back to Welch. One of Minnesota's most beautiful, well-conditioned and flattest trails. Daily pass ($3) or season pass ($15) required. Don Picard. Various co-leaders. 4 THU 6:00 PM A/B 30 mi. THURSDAY THERAPY. Note new start location and time. A scenic ride into northern Dakota County, featuring a few hills and great river views. Depart from the parking lot of Health Partners, corner of Wabasha and Plato, across the Wabasha St. Bridge from downtown St. Paul. Park at the west end of the lot farthest from the building. Various leaders. May 4 and 18: Tony Wanschura, . May 11: Lisa Austin. May 25: Lee Thielman. 4 THU 6:00 PM A/B 20 or 32 mi. THIGHS, SIGHS, AND CRIES. A long-time western metro favorite. Leave from the parking lot in front of Woody's Grill at Shady Oak Road and City West Parkway in Eden Prairie. Join us as we experience the rolling hills of Eden Prairie and Minnetonka. A great hill training ride, with shorter options. Self-sufficient B riders welcome. You'll sigh and cry but your thighs will thank you! Restroom facilities at Super America on Shady Oak Rd across from Woody's. Dianne Bell, Rebecca Lawrence, Kathy Moe. 4 THU 6:00 PM B 23 mi. A DUTCH TREAT. Depart from Plymouth Station Shopping Center, Highway 55 and County 24 in Plymouth, 2 mi west of I-494. Park at north end by the tower. Scenic backroads of Medina, Maple Plain, Loretto, and Hamel. Rolling hills. Socialize over a light meal at Panera's after the ride. Map to start: http://zzzurn.com/maps/plymouthstation.html. Kay Mitchell, and Evie Walters. 4 THU 6:30 PM B 20 mi. DEPART LATER THAN USUAL. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop, 2059 Snelling Av N, Roseville (651-209-1990), across from Har Mar Theaters on the frontage road by McDonalds. Why be part of rush hour traffic trying to get to a 6 PM ride when you can join us for a 20-mile ride that departs at 6:30 on May 4 and then at 6:45 for the remaining three Thursdays in May? With this route there is no rest stop. Water, restrooms, and a place to change into biking clothes are in the shop. Park at far end of lot in back. Plan to join us afterwards for a bite to eat. Reminder: Depart 6:30 on 5/4 and at 6:45 on 5/11, 5/18, 5/25. Kristine Poelzer, and Deb Matchinsky. 5 FRI 10:00 AM B/C 24 mi JORDAN JAUNT. Depart from Lagoon Park lot next to waterfalls in Jordan, MN. Take Hwy 169 south from Twin Cities to first Jordan exit (winds under Hwy 169 heading south). Continue south on Hwy 21 to Hwy 282. Then turn right at light. Go 2 blocks to Varner St. Turn left on Varner St and proceed up the hill about 4 blocks to Lagoon Park on the left (Park Dr) . We'll ride on lightly traveled rural roads to Belle Plaine, have a luncheon break at Emma Krumbees, then return on a slightly different route. Terrain is somewhat hilly and has one half mile of unpaved road. This is a segment of the upcoming Jordan Valley Bike Tour (www.JVBT.org). Ambassador: Tim Bischke, Leader: Herb Schultz. 5 FRI 10:00 AM A/B 30-64 mi. MMVI METRIC. Try this classic ride to Marine On St. Croix and back. Depart from Vadnais-Sucker Lake Park, 4500 Rice St, 55127, north parking lot. May 5 and 19: Dave Pfuhl, May 12: Katie Angle, May 26: Michael McNutt. 5 FRI 10:00 AM C 20 mi. CHAMPLIN MIDMORNING RAMBLE. Depart from Trailhead Cycling and Fitness, 11351 Aquila Dr (115th and US 169), Champlin, MN. Park on the north side of the cycle shop. This ride uses paved trails and low traffic streets along the Mississippi River, Coon Rapids Dam, and Elm Creek Park Preserve. Midride break and lunch at Culver's after the ride. Ride moves to Wednesdays in June. Phillip Lawson. 5 FRI 3:00 PM A/B 30/40 mi. SPRING'S HERE. Depart from Spring Gate Center by Applebees in Golden Valley, SW corner of Hwy 100 and Duluth St. Explore Medicine Lake, Plymouth, and beyond. Nicer weather, longer ride. Longer rides include a rest stop at the Retro Cafe in Loretto. George Hagemann. 5 FRI 6:00 PM B 25-30 mi. TGIF DINNER SERIES. Depart from Burnet Realty at Highway 96 and Hodgson Rd in North Oaks. North on Village Center Drive, park in the rear lot. Optional post-ride dinner at Panino's. Map to start: http://www.zzzurn.com/maps/burnshore.html. May 5, 19, 26: Mark Gregory, May 12 and June 2: Lee Thielman. 6-7 GLACIAL LAKES / WOBEGON TRAILS SHORT WEEKEND. Get to know one or two paved asphalt railroad grade trails for a short weekend jaunt. See rides below. 6 SAT 7:30 AM B 35-45 mi. HAR-MARTIAN. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop, 2059 Snelling Av N, Roseville, across from Har Mar Mall, next to McDonald's. Explore lakes, trails, lightly traveled roads on this ever-changing route. Get up and ride. The yardwork can wait. Cindy Hanson. NOTE: No ride on May 27th. 6 SAT 8:00 AM A 125 mi. OUTREACH RIDE: 200 KM ROCHESTER BREVET. Depart from Walmart parking lot, just west of Hwy 52 on 55th St NW in Rochester, MN. If you're even thinking about Paris-Brest-Paris in 2007 (1200 km/750 miles), here's where to start. This is the first in a series of progressively longer training and qualifying rides for P-B-P and other 1200 km events. Or ride just for fun on great routes in southern MN. For further information and to register (required), see http://www.rasc-mn.org/rasc_randonneur.html. Charles Breer. NO TCBC INSURANCE. 6 SAT 9:00 AM A/B 65-75 mi. SEARCH FOR LEFTY. Depart from Plymouth Station Shopping Center. Two miles west of 494 on Highway 55, turn left on County 24. Park at the north end by tower. Self sufficient B riders welcome. Joel Stenoien, Andy Danielson, Doug Duoos. 6 SAT 9:00 AM BC 25-30 mi. "NOW AND THEN". (May 20th) Depart from Now Sports 3715 Lexington Av. No. Arden Hills. We bike out of Arden Hills to Long Lake with moderate number of hills and a nice bike in the middle of the ride.Red Ribbon Riders Welcome. Paul "Thunder" Huntington Leader. (Web Ride) 6 SAT 9:30 AM A/B 65-75 mi. WI HILLS MENOMONIE. Depart from Riverside Park in Menomonie, WI. I-94 to Menomonie, US 25 south to US 29, then right on US 29 across the river to the park. Challenging hills and little-traveled rural roads. Details on the TCBC e-group during the week before the ride. Shorter option available. If weather threatens, check TCBC web page "Ride Alert" link or contact ride leader before 7:45 AM on morning of ride. Tony Wanschura, . 6 SAT 10:00 AM B 20-25 mi. SONNY SIDE UP. Depart from Sonny's Ice Cream at 3401 Lyndale Av S. Stay for brunch on the piazza after the ride. Great food! Kay Mitchell, and Evie Walters. 6 SAT 10:00 AM B 37 mi. STILLWATER. Returning on a portion of the Gateway Trail. Leave from Woodland Hills Church parking lot in Maplewood, one block east and one block north of White Bear and Larpenteur Avenues. Doug Nelson. 6 SAT 10:00 AM B 30 mi. B RIDE WITH SOME HILLS. Depart from the bottom of Crosby Farm Road in Crosby Farm Park, along the Mississippi River in St. Paul. Entrance is at intersection where Mississippi River Blvd becomes Shepard Rd. The ride goes along the Mississippi River, with several nice climbs. Dave Dugan. 6 SAT 10:45 AM C 20-25 mi GLACIAL LAKES TRAIL. Meet in Willmar, MN at Civic Center parking lot trailhead. Take U.S. Hwy. 12 west from Twin Cities to Willmar. Turn north (right) on County Road 9 and go 2 miles to Civic Center trailhead parking lot. Topography is gently rolling and the route has waterfowl habitat for the birder in you. We'll experience the small towns of Spicer and New London and some of their fabled luncheon cuisine and return for an after-ride exposure to the bustling town of Willmar. Those doing the two days will then relocate to Albany MN and the Wobegon Trail for next day's ride. John Hoffmann, Don Picard, Herb Schultz. 6 SAT 1:00 PM A/B 42 mi. SCOTT CARVER COUNTY TRAILS. Depart from Rainbow parking lot on Marshall Rd and Vierling Dr, Shakopee. A scenic ride through Scott and Carver Counties. Self sufficient B riders welcome. Markus Bohler. 7 SUN 6:00 AM A/B 62 + 79 + 100 + 151 mi. SUNDAY SUNRISE SOLITUDE. Depart from Perkins Restaurant, New Brighton [zipcode 55112], 2 blocks west of I-35W on County Road D. Choose one of four mileage options to ride in the country & city plus the whole Gateway Trail, starting with the solitude of a sunrise. Park at end of lot. Depart times and leaders often change each Sunday 5/7 depart 6:00 AM: Peter Fischer. 7 SUN 8:00 AM A/B 67 mi. ROLLING ON THE WESTSIDE. Depart from Holiday Gas Station Eden Prairie, Dell Rd and Hwy 62, 3.5 miles west of I-494 on 62. Park at far end of lot next to Dell Rd. An excellent training ride in the western suburbs. Eric Feld. Co-leader: Lee Stagg 7 SUN 9:00 AM A/B 42 mi. WASHINGTON COUNTY WHIRL. Depart from Ojibway Park in Woodbury. Exit 494 at Lake Rd and go southeast, then left on Courtly Rd, and then right on Ojibway Dr. Bounded by I-94 on the north and Highway 10 on the south, we'll travel some familiar, and some scenic, lesser-traveled roads of southern Washington County. Tony Wanschura, . 7 SUN 10:00 AM C 25-30 mi. LAKE WOBEGON TRAIL - ALBANY, FREEPORT, AND HOLDINGFORD. Meet at the Albany trailhead, located at the shelter next to the library in downtown Albany, MN. We'll bike to our official rest stop in Freeport at Charlie's, who has some better-than-good cinnamon and caramel rolls and, yes, pies. Then onward to Holdingford, renowned for the million dollar lottery winner ladies. After a scrumptious indulgence, we return to Albany and our return home. This ride is scheduled either as a solo ride or an add-on to the Saturday Glacier Lakes ride. John Hoffmann, Don Picard, Herb Schultz. 7 SUN 10:30 AM B 25-30 mi. MAY DAY! May Day! Bikers Unite! Depart from Matthews Park, E 24th St and 27th Av S in Minneapolis. This is a social ride with lunch at the Turtle Bakery, and then on to watch the 32nd Annual Heart of the Beast May Day Parade – with its unique bike formation, giant puppets, politicians, and music. This is truly a unique parade! Bring a bike lock if you want to go to Powderhorn Park afterwards for a continuation of the Festival. See www.hobt.org/mayday/index.html. Patt Seleen Dan Miller. 7 SUN 12:00 PM C 26/27 mi. TAKE A RIDE ON THE LUCE LINE. Depart from Stubbs Bay parking lot in Orono. Mapless run on the Luce line trail to Watertown, MN. Trail is crushed limestone. Return via Watertown Rd (asphalt). Rest stop at Oasis Market/Subway/Lions Park in Watertown. Directions: 394/12 west through Long Lake to Old Crystal Bay Rd, left to Watertown Rd, right to Stubbs Bay Rd, then left to parking. Dave Rusinko. 7 SUN 2:00 PM B 30-35 mi. SERENDIPITY. Leaves from University of St. Thomas parking lot, corner of Cretin and Summit in St. Paul (use Cretin/Vandalia exit from I-94). Various routes using trails and roads. Julie VanMersbergen. 8 MON DEADLINE FOR JUNE TCBC NEWS. E-mail schedule info to scheduleatbiketcbc.org. Articles to Doug Nelson, newsletteratbiketcbc.org. 8 MON 10:00 AM C 25-30 mi. BALD EAGLE AND MORE. Depart from Burger King at Hwy 36 and Hwy 120 (Century Road). We'll bike around White Bear and Bald Eagle lakes and the Gateway Trail. Rest stop along the way and optional lunch at BK after ride. Ambassador: June Johnson. Leader: Herb Schultz. 8 MON 10:30 AM B 29 mi. PINK EXPRESS. Depart from County Cycles, 2700 Lexington Av N, Roseville 55113. Park on Woodhill St. Ride past Owasso, Vadnais, and Bald Eagle Lakes. Marina Lim, . 8 MON 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. and B 20-30 mi. MILES FROM MAPLEWOOD. Depart from the HealthPartners Maplewood Clinic, White Bear Av and County Rd B. Go south on White Bear Av from Hwy 36. Leave the city behind and ride into the countryside of Ramsey and Washington Counties. Kate Kovar, and Jim Pederson, . 8 MON 6:00 PM B/C 15-22 mi. MELLOW MONDAY. Depart from Long Lake Regional Park main pavilion, New Brighton. Route varies weekly and may be map or mapless. Join us for a casual mellow ride round the northern suburbs. This is a stay-together ride. Weather will dictate the miles. Mike Daniels, Kay Mitchell, Dave Swaab, . 8 MON 6:00 PM B 25-30 mi. MY OH MY MINNEAPOLIS. Depart from the rear parking lot of Sunrise Cyclery Bike Shop, 612-310-6698, 3031 2nd Av S, Minneapolis 55408, on the east side of 35W and south edge of Lake St. Sample the best scenery of Minneapolis via premier bicycle routes of many paved trails and some roads. Arrive early to check out the shop - water and restroom available. Leader rides at the rear of those who ride a B pace of 14 mph avg. Route scout: Jamie McDonald. Leader: Kristine Poelzer. 8 MON 6:00 PM AB 31 mi. MONDAY METRO RECOVERY. Depart from Lock & Dam parking lot underneath the west end of the Stone Arch Bridge (go northeast on Portland from Washington Ave then just past West River Road down a short steep hill to the Minneapolis Lock & Dam parking lot). Recover from your suffer-fest weekend rides with a metro ride after work. Relatively flat with 2 longer hills thrown in. Rebecca Lawrence. (Web Ride) 9 TUE 8:30 AM C 24-35 mi. AUGIE’S GATEWAY SOCIAL C RIDE. Starting/finishing at Maplewood Community Center, 2100 White Bear Av, Maplewood, MN 55109. It’s about 3 blocks south of Highway 36 and about a block north of the Gateway Trail. Park in the middle of the lot. All riders welcome. Rest stop at the end of the trail. Optional lunch after the ride at Panera’s, just 1.5 blocks north of Highway 36 on White Bear Av. Augie aka "The Gus Meister" Muller, 9 TUE 10:00 AM A/B 25-40 mi. CITY EXPLORER. Depart from Lake Harriet Band Shell in Minneapolis. With Lake Harriet as our base we'll venture out and explore the beautiful metro area. Self-sufficient B riders welcome. Kelly Hazel. 9 TUE 6:00 PM A/B 26/33 mi. GEARS, TEARS, AND FEARS. Depart from East Mississippi River Blvd and Hartford Av. Park on the south side of Hartford and in the three north lots of the Temple of Aaron. A classic hill ride and club favorite. Challenge yourself on St Paul's hills. It's easier than you think! Dave Erick. May 9 Lisa Dust, , May 30 Pete Hawkins. 9 TUE 6:00 PM B/C, A/B 21-30 mi. BUNKER HILLS AND BEYOND. Depart from Bunker Hills Activity Center, 550 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW in Andover. Explore the northern Twin Cities metro area while riding through the open meadows and tree-lined avenues of the Anoka Sand Plain. Jim and Elizabeth Dohogne, . 9 TUE 6:00 PM A/B, B 24-30 mi. LEFTY'S WESTSIDE RIDE. Leave from Plymouth Station Shopping Center, two miles west of 494, on Highway 55, turn left on County 24. Park at the north end by tower. Rolling hills on quiet country roads. Joel Stenoien, Andy Danielson; Doug Duoos. 9 TUE 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. SIGHTS FROM THE HEIGHTS. Meet at Silver Lake Village Mall north of 37th Ave NE on Silver Lake Road in St. Anthony. This will be an A/B-friendly ride with hills, few turns or signals. Dinner option. Jim Elwell, 612-827-5622, 1st Tues; Dan Miller, 2nd Tues; Irene Erickson, 3rd Tues; Roger Schoffhausen, 4th Tues; and Mary Miller. 9 TUE 6:15 PM A/B 36/29/24 mi. THE ACAPULCO RIDE. Depart from the Acapulco Restaurant at 1240 North Frontage Road (of Hwy 36) in Stillwater. From I-694, take Hwy 36 east for 6.5 miles. Turn left on Washington Av (first stoplight past the Hwy 5 overpass). Take an immediate right on the frontage road for 1/4 mile to the Valley Ridge Mall and Acapulco Restaurant on the left. Dump the traffic! Relax on shady, undulating roads to Afton. Enjoy a taco or two after. Rain may force cancellation of the ride at the leader’s discretion, but we can still eat! Call me if in doubt. Bob Hoffman. 9 TUE 6:15 PM C 10-15 mi. BEAUTIFUL MINNEAPOLIS. Depart from St. Joan of Arc Church, 4537 3rd Av S, Mpls. (one block north and east of the 46th St exit of I-35W). This is a slow and easy ride. The group will ride together. Much of the ride will be on trails. Ride varies from week to week, and may be mapless. Edie Kalweit . 10 WED 11:00 AM A/B 30/40 mi. HILLS WE CALL HOME. Depart from Indian Mounds Park, corner of Mounds Blvd and Earl St in St. Paul, top of the hill in the park. We'll see if we can find a couple of hills to climb as we get ready for those Wisconsin hill rides coming up next month. Might even make it down to Grey Cloud Island if the roads are open. Michael McNutt, . 10 WED 6:00 PM B 20-30 mi. RIDING FROM RICHFIELD. Pedal away from Woodlake Lutheran Church, 76th and Oliver Ave in Richfield, on this ever-evolving evening ride. Enjoy the variety as you experience a new and different route each week. David Gepner. 10 WED 6:00 PM B/C 20 mi. CRUISING COON RAPIDS. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop in Coon Rapids next to Lifetime Fitness. This ride is on a paved trail and on slow traffic roads around the Coon Rapids Dam and the Mississippi River. There will be a midpoint break, and after-ride socializing at a local coffee shop or restaurant. Phillip Lawson, . 10 WED 6:00 PM A/B 25/30 mi. STONE ARCHING. Depart from Lock & Dam parking lot underneath the west end of the Stone Arch Bridge in downtown Minneapolis. Go north on Portland from Washington Av, then just past West River Rd down a short steep hill to the Lock & Dam parking lot. No water at start. The ride uses East and West River Roads, Summit Av, and the High Bridge. Charlie Caswell. 10 WED 6:00 PM BC 20-25 mi. "KENT AND I". Depart from Now Sports 3715 Lexington Av. No. Arden Hills. We will bike out of Arden Hills/Shoreview in search of a few hills to climb for fun.Come a little early to shop Now Sports for your bike needs.Red RIbbon Riders welcome. Paul "Thunder" Huntington. (Web Ride) 10 WED 6:15 PM A/B 25-30 mi. WASHINGTON COUNTY WINDER. Depart from Mahtomedi High School on Hwy 12. Take Hwy 36 east past I-694, then north on Hilton Trail, east on Hwy 12, and left into the school. Ride the scenic, winding roads of the area. Optional dinner afterwards. Mary Derks. 11 THU 8:30 AM C 24-35 mi. AUGIE’S GATEWAY SOCIAL C RIDE. Starting/finishing at Maplewood Community Center 2100 White Bear Av, Maplewood, MN 55109. It’s about 3 blocks south of Highway 36 and about a block north of the Gateway Trail. Park in the middle of the lot. All riders welcome. Rest stop at the end of the trail. Optional lunch after the ride at Panera’s, just 1.5 blocks north of Highway 36 on White Bear Av. Augie aka "The Gus Meister" Muller, 11 THU 9:30 AM B/C 20/40 mi. THURSDAYS ON THE CANNON. Depart from Welch Village trailhead. Every Thursday from May 4 through September 28. Ride to Red Wing and return to Welch to complete the 20-mile option. Then on to Cannon Falls (40-mile option) for lunch at The Stone Mill. After lunch, it's a quick 10-mile downhill back to Welch. One of Minnesota's most beautiful, well-conditioned and flattest trails. Daily pass ($3) or season pass ($15) required. Don Picard. Various co-leaders. 11 THU 10:15 AM C 20-25 mi. BELLA CUCINA AND MORE. Discover the charm of Bella Cucina eatery with a fun celebration stop for lunch. Mostly paved trails with a bit of bike friendly roads. We ride mostly in Eden Prairie and a small piece of Bloomington. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop, 16376 Wagner Way, Eden Prairie. One block north from Hwy 5 and Hwy 4 (Eden Prairie Rd), turn right (east) on Wagner Way, then left into strip mall parking lot. Ambassadors: Duane and Diana Kasper. Herb Schultz, Clareyse Nelson,. . 11 THU 6:00 PM A/B 30 mi. THURSDAY THERAPY. Note new start location and time. A scenic ride into northern Dakota County, featuring a few hills and great river views. Depart from the parking lot of Health Partners, corner of Wabasha and Plato, across the Wabasha St. Bridge from downtown St. Paul. Park at the west end of the lot farthest from the building. Various leaders. May 4 and 18: Tony Wanschura, . May 11: Lisa Austin. May 25: Lee Thielman. 11 THU 6:00 PM A/B 20 or 32 mi. THIGHS, SIGHS, AND CRIES. A long-time western metro favorite. Leave from the parking lot in front of Woody's Grill at Shady Oak Road and City West Parkway in Eden Prairie. Join us as we experience the rolling hills of Eden Prairie and Minnetonka. A great hill training ride, with shorter options. Self-sufficient B riders welcome. You'll sigh and cry but your thighs will thank you! Restroom facilities at Super America on Shady Oak Rd across from Woody's. Dianne Bell, 612-554-1331; Rebecca Lawrence, 612-381-1070; Kathy Moe. 11 THU 6:00 PM B 23 mi. A DUTCH TREAT. Depart from Plymouth Station Shopping Center, Highway 55 and County 24 in Plymouth, 2 mi west of I-494. Park at north end by the tower. Scenic backroads of Medina, Maple Plain, Loretto, and Hamel. Rolling hills. Socialize over a light meal at Panera's after the ride. Map to start: http://zzzurn.com/maps/plymouthstation.html. Kay Mitchell, and Evie Walters. 11 THU 6:00 PM B 22-27 mi. HERE AND NOW. Depart from Now Bikes & Fitness, 3673 Lexington Av N, Arden Hills (just south of 694). Parks, trails, lakes--the usual pretty stuff. Cindy Hanson, ; Paul Huntington. 11 THU 6:30 PM B 20 mi. DEPART LATER THAN USUAL. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop, 2059 Snelling Av N, Roseville (651-209-1990), across from Har Mar Theaters on the frontage road by McDonalds. Why be part of rush hour traffic trying to get to a 6 PM ride when you can join us for a 20-mile ride that departs at 6:30 on May 4 and then at 6:45 for the remaining three Thursdays in May? With this route there is no rest stop. Water, restrooms, and a place to change into biking clothes are in the shop. Park at far end of lot in back. Plan to join us afterwards for a bite to eat. Reminder: Depart 6:30 on 5/4 and at 6:45 on 5/11, 5/18, 5/25. Kristine Poelzer, and Deb Matchinsky. 12 FRI 10:00 AM A/B 30-64 mi. MMVI METRIC. Try this classic ride to Marine On St. Croix and back. Depart from Vadnais-Sucker Lake Park, 4500 Rice St, 55127, north parking lot. May 5 and 19: Dave Pfuhl, May 12: Katie Angle. May 26: Michael McNutt. 12 FRI 10:00 AM C 20 mi. CHAMPLIN MIDMORNING RAMBLE. Depart from Trailhead Cycling and Fitness, 11351 Aquila Dr (115th and US 169), Champlin, MN (763-712-0312). Park on the north side of the cycle shop. This ride uses paved trails and low traffic streets along the Mississippi River, Coon Rapids Dam, and Elm Creek Park Preserve. Midride break and lunch at Culver's after the ride. Ride moves to Wednesdays in June. Phillip Lawson. 12 FRI 3:00 PM A/B 30/40 mi. SPRING'S HERE. Depart from Spring Gate Center by Applebees in Golden Valley, SW corner of Hwy 100 and Duluth St. Explore Medicine Lake, Plymouth, and beyond. Nicer weather, longer ride. Longer rides include a rest stop at the Retro Cafe in Loretto. George Hagemannl. 12 FRI 6:00 PM B 25-30 mi. TGIF DINNER SERIES. Depart from Burnet Realty at Highway 96 and Hodgson Rd in North Oaks. North on Village Center Drive, park in the rear lot. Optional post-ride dinner at Panino's. Map to start: http://www.zzzurn.com/maps/burnshore.html. May 5, 19, 26: Mark Gregory. May 12 and June 2: Lee Thielman. 12 FRI 6:00 PM B 20-30 mi. BY GOLLY IT'S GOOGLY (BGIG). Depart from University of St. Thomas main lot, Cretin & Summit Avenues, St. Paul. Use the Cretin/Vandalia exit off of I-94. I-35E/694 road construction keeping you south? Join us for a special Friday night edition of Great Googly Moogly. Julie VanMersbergen. 12 FRI 6:00 PM B 20–30 mi. DINING ON THE WESTSIDE. Go West for far Eastern cuisine after a ride from Edina’s Szechuan Star Restaurant, 3655 Hazelton Rd. David Gepner, . 13 SAT 7:30 AM B 35-45 mi. HAR-MARTIAN. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop, 2059 Snelling Av N, Roseville, across from Har Mar Mall, next to McDonald's. Explore lakes, trails, lightly traveled roads on this ever-changing route. Get up and ride. The yardwork can wait. Cindy Hanson 13 SAT 8:00 AM A/B 48 mi. AFTON-COTTAGE GROVE HILL TOUR. Meet at Eagle Valley Shopping Center parking lot, SE intersection of Woodbury Dr (Hwy 19) and Valley Creek Rd in Woodbury. See Maps to Ride Starts at http://www.zzzurn.com/maps/espresso.html. Roll through the great hills of Afton and Cottage Grove and stop in at Espresso Donuts afterward for refueling. Dave Haerle. 13 SAT 9:00 AM C 35 mi. RED WING – CANNON BALL RUN. All paved bike path. Starting at the north end of the Red Wing Pottery Mall of shops. Break at the halfway point (Welch village picnic area, about 16.1 km into the ride) and lunch at Cannon Falls or back in Red Wing. Because of the distance and the possibility of inclement weather, please do make that call before coming to the ride to make sure it’s a go. Any questions? fon Augie Muller 13 SAT 9:00 AM BC 40-45 mi. "KENT AND I". (May 27th) Depart from St. Joan of Arc 4537 3rd Av. So. Minneapolis. We will depart Minneapolis and bike to Shoreview with a few hills along the way.Red Ribbon Riders welcome. Paul "Thunder" Huntington. (Web Ride) 13 SAT 9:30 AM A/B 65-75 mi. WI HILLS PLUM CITY. Depart from municipal parking lot next to the gas station on Main St (County U) just off of Hwy 10 at north end of downtown Plum City, WI. Challenging hills and little-traveled rural roads. Plum City is on US Hwy 10, about 35 miles east of Prescott, WI. Details on the TCBC e-group during week before ride. Shorter option available. If weather threatens, check TCBC web page "Ride Alert" link or contact ride leader before 7:45 AM on morning of ride. Tony Wanschura, . 13 SAT 9:30 AM C 15 mi. EASE INTO BIKING SERIES. Depart from Holiday gas station at 109th Av N and Douglas Dr in Champlin, west side of parking lot. For directions, see related article. A friendly set of 6 Saturday morning rides (May 13 and 20, June 3, 10, 17, and 24) exploring the North Hennepin Corridor Trail between the Coon Rapids Dam and Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove. New riders encouraged, all social riders welcome. Bring a full water bottle, spare tube, questions. Optional lunch afterwards. Carolyn Caswell, Neil Millam, Deb Matchinsky. 13 SAT 10:00 AM B 20-25 mi. SONNY SIDE UP. Depart from Sonny's Ice Cream at 3401 Lyndale Av S. Stay for brunch on the piazza after the ride. Great food! Kay Mitchell, and Evie Walters, 13 SAT 10:00 AM B 30 mi. B RIDE WITH SOME HILLS. Depart from the bottom of Crosby Farm Road in Crosby Farm Park, along the Mississippi River in St. Paul. Entrance is at intersection where Mississippi River Blvd becomes Shepard Rd. The ride goes along the Mississippi River, with several nice climbs. Dave Dugan 13 SAT ALLIANZ LIFE MS (non-TCBC) 30 or 60 mi. Starts and ends in Maplewood and includes Gateway Trail. Non-profit pledge ride. Contact: 1-800-528-5296 or 612-335-7900 or www.mssociety.org. 14 SUN 5:45 AM A/B 62 + 79 + 100 + 151 mi. SUNDAY SUNRISE SOLITUDE. Depart from Perkins Restaurant, New Brighton [zipcode 55112], 2 blocks west of I-35W on County Road D. Choose one of four mileage options to ride in the country & city plus the whole Gateway Trail, starting with the solitude of a sunrise. Park at end of lot. Depart times and leaders often change each Sunday; 5/14 depart 5:45 AM: Kristine Poelzer, . 14 SUN 9:00 AM A/B 42 mi. WASHINGTON COUNTY WHIRL. Depart from Ojibway Park in Woodbury. Exit 494 at Lake Rd and go southeast, then left on Courtly Rd, and then right on Ojibway Dr. Bounded by I-94 on the north and Highway 10 on the south, we'll travel some familiar, and some scenic, lesser-traveled roads of southern Washington County. Tony Wanschura, . 14 SUN 2:00 PM B 30-35 mi. SERENDIPITY. Leaves from University of St. Thomas parking lot, corner of Cretin and Summit in St. Paul (use Cretin/Vandalia exit from I-94). Various routes using trails and roads. Julie VanMersbergen 15 MON 10:30 AM B 29 mi. PINK EXPRESS. Depart from County Cycles, 2700 Lexington Av N, Roseville 55113. Park on Woodhill St. Ride past Owasso, Vadnais, and Bald Eagle Lakes. Marina Lim, . 15 MON 10:30 AM C 25-30 mi CHASKA TRAILS/DIKES RIDE. Discover signs of spring on blacktopped trails through Chanhassen and Chaska where we join the Chaska Dike Trails with luncheon stop at the famous Chaska Mills restaurant. Leave from Bokoo Bikes, 550 Lake Dr, Chanhassen. From Hwy 5, turn south on Market St (Hwy 101). Go one block, turn left (east); Bokoo Bikes is on the left. Ambassadors: Duane and Diana Kasper. Herb Schultz, ; Clareyse Nelson,. . 15 MON 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. and B 20-30 mi. MILES FROM MAPLEWOOD. Depart from the HealthPartners Maplewood Clinic, White Bear Av and County Rd B. Go south on White Bear Av from Hwy 36. Leave the city behind and ride into the countryside of Ramsey and Washington Counties. Kate Kovar, and Jim Pederson, . 15 MON 6:00 PM B/C 15-22 mi. MELLOW MONDAY. Depart from Long Lake Regional Park main pavilion, New Brighton. Route varies weekly and may be map or mapless. Join us for a casual mellow ride round the northern suburbs. This is a stay-together ride. Weather will dictate the miles. Mike Daniels, Kay Mitchell, Dave Swaab. 15 MON 6:00 PM B 25-30 mi. MY OH MY MINNEAPOLIS. Depart from the rear parking lot of Sunrise Cyclery Bike Shop, 612-310-6698, 3031 2nd Av S, Minneapolis 55408, on the east side of 35W and south edge of Lake St. Sample the best scenery of Minneapolis via premier bicycle routes of many paved trails and some roads. Arrive early to check out the shop - water and restroom available. Leader rides at the rear of those who ride a B pace of 14 mph avg. Route scout: Jamie McDonald. Leader: Kristine Poelzer, . 15 MON 6:00 PM AB 31 mi. MONDAY METRO RECOVERY. Depart from Lock & Dam parking lot underneath the west end of the Stone Arch Bridge (go northeast on Portland from Washington Ave then just past West River Road down a short steep hill to the Minneapolis Lock & Dam parking lot). Recover from your suffer-fest weekend rides with a metro ride after work. Relatively flat with 2 longer hills thrown in. Rebecca Lawrence (Web Ride) 16 TUE 8:30 AM C 24-35 mi. AUGIE’S GATEWAY SOCIAL C RIDE. Starting/finishing at Maplewood Community Center, 2100 White Bear Av, Maplewood, MN 55109. It’s about 3 blocks south of Highway 36 and about a block north of the Gateway Trail. Park in the middle of the lot. All riders welcome. Rest stop at the end of the trail. Optional lunch after the ride at Panera’s, just 1.5 blocks north of Highway 36 on White Bear Av. Augie aka "The Gus Meister" Muller 16 TUE 10:00 AM A/B 25-40 mi. CITY EXPLORER. Depart from Lake Harriet Band Shell in Minneapolis. With Lake Harriet as our base we'll venture out and explore the beautiful metro area. Self-sufficient B riders welcome. Kelly Hazel. 16 TUE 6:00 PM A/B 26/33 mi. GEARS, TEARS, AND FEARS. Depart from East Mississippi River Blvd and Hartford Av. Park on the south side of Hartford and in the three north lots of the Temple of Aaron. A classic hill ride and club favorite. Challenge yourself on St Paul's hills. It's easier than you think! Dave Erick. May 9 Lisa Dust, May 30 Pete Hawkins. 16 TUE 6:00 PM B/C, A/B 21-30 mi. BUNKER HILLS AND BEYOND. Depart from Bunker Hills Activity Center, 550 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW in Andover. Explore the northern Twin Cities metro area while riding through the open meadows and tree-lined avenues of the Anoka Sand Plain. Jim and Elizabeth Dohogne. 16 TUE 6:00 PM A/B, B 24-30 mi. LEFTY'S WESTSIDE RIDE. Leave from Plymouth Station Shopping Center, two miles west of 494, on Highway 55, turn left on County 24. Park at the north end by tower. Rolling hills on quiet country roads. Joel Stenoien, Andy Danielson; Doug Duoos. 16 TUE 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. SIGHTS FROM THE HEIGHTS. Meet at Silver Lake Village Mall north of 37th Ave NE on Silver Lake Road in St. Anthony. This will be an A/B-friendly ride with hills, few turns or signals. Dinner option. Jim Elwell, 1st Tues; Dan Miller, 2nd Tues; Irene Erickson, 3rd Tues; Roger Schoffhausen, 4th Tues; and Mary Miller. 16 TUE 6:00 PM B/C 18-22 mi. INTRO TO GROUP RIDING. Depart from Erik’s Bike Shop in Oakdale. From I-694, take 10th St exit. Shop is in the Bergen Plaza strip mall. Arrive early to shop for necessities, like a rear-view mirror or new patch kit and tubes. Tired of riding alone? Looking for new friends to ride with? Expand your environs and please join us for a casual ride. Seasoned riders, bring a friend who is new to cycling. For general info or directions to store, call Erik’s LeAnn Plinske. 16 TUE 6:15 PM A/B 36/29/24 mi. THE ACAPULCO RIDE. Depart from the Acapulco Restaurant at 1240 North Frontage Road (of Hwy 36) in Stillwater. From I-694, take Hwy 36 east for 6.5 miles. Turn left on Washington Av (first stoplight past the Hwy 5 overpass). Take an immediate right on the frontage road for 1/4 mile to the Valley Ridge Mall and Acapulco Restaurant on the left. Dump the traffic! Relax on shady, undulating roads to Afton. Enjoy a taco or two after. Rain may force cancellation of the ride at the leader’s discretion, but we can still eat! Call me if in doubt. Bob Hoffman. 16 TUE 6:15 PM C 10-15 mi. BEAUTIFUL MINNEAPOLIS. Depart from St. Joan of Arc Church, 4537 3rd Av S, Mpls. (one block north and east of the 46th St exit of I-35W). This is a slow and easy ride. The group will ride together. Much of the ride will be on trails. Ride varies from week to week, and may be mapless. Edie Kalweit . 17 WED 10:15 AM C 25 mi. LRT NORTH TO VICTORIA SOCIAL RIDE. Should find spring wildflowers on this trek on our way to charming town of Victoria for luncheon stop. LRT trail is packed limestone. Leave from Minnetonka Community Center, 14600 Minnetonka Blvd. From Hwy 494 exit #17, go right (west) on Minnetonka Blvd .6 mi, turn right at Center and park in rear. Clareyse Nelson, and Herb Schultz. 17 WED 11:00 AM A/B 30/40 mi. HILLS WE CALL HOME. Depart from Indian Mounds Park, corner of Mounds Blvd and Earl St in St. Paul, top of the hill in the park. We'll see if we can find a couple of hills to climb as we get ready for those Wisconsin hill rides coming up next month. Might even make it down to Grey Cloud Island if the roads are open. Michael McNutt, . 17 WED 12:30 PM AB 35 mi. AN AFTERNOON RIDE. Depart from picnic area just north of the parking lot, near the Lake Harriet Bandshell. We will explore some Minneapolis and St. Paul neighborhoods Susan Evan. (Web Ride) 17 WED 6:00 PM B 20-30 mi. RIDING FROM RICHFIELD. Pedal away from Woodlake Lutheran Church, 76th and Oliver Ave in Richfield, on this ever-evolving evening ride. Enjoy the variety as you experience a new and different route each week. David Gepner. 17 WED 6:00 PM B/C 20 mi. CRUISING COON RAPIDS. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop in Coon Rapids next to Lifetime Fitness. This ride is on a paved trail and on slow traffic roads around the Coon Rapids Dam and the Mississippi River. There will be a midpoint break, and after-ride socializing at a local coffee shop or restaurant. Phillip Lawson. 17 WED 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. THE WHOLE ENCHILADA! Depart from the Roseville Professional Center (SW corner of Hwy 36 and Hamline Ave in Roseville - 2233 Hamline Ave No.). Park at the west end of the lot. Ride past area lakes and parks with the Speedy Gonzalezes of the group or at a more leisurely pace. Join your compadres afterwards at Ol' Mexico or other establishment for fun and refueling. Andele! Andele! Epa! Epa! Yeehah!!! Mary Derks. 17 WED 6:00 PM A/B 25/30 mi. STONE ARCHING. Depart from Lock & Dam parking lot underneath the west end of the Stone Arch Bridge in downtown Minneapolis. Go north on Portland from Washington Av, then just past West River Rd down a short steep hill to the Lock & Dam parking lot. No water at start. The ride uses East and West River Roads, Summit Av, and the High Bridge. Charlie Caswell. 17 WED 6:00 PM BC 20-25 mi. "KENT AND I". Depart from Now Sports 3715 Lexington Av. No. Arden Hills. We will bike out of Arden Hills/Shoreview in search of a few hills to climb for fun.Come a little early to shop Now Sports for your bike needs.Red RIbbon Riders welcome. Paul "Thunder" Huntington. (Web Ride) 17 WED 7:00 PM B/C 8-10 mi. RIDE OF SILENCE. Depart from the parking lot (off of the W. River Parkway) near the Stone Arch Bridge. Park your car at a public parking lot at the corner of 2nd St and 11th Av. Join cyclists nationwide in a silent slow-paced ride (max. 12 mph) in honor of those who have been injured or killed while cycling on America's public roadways. This ride also raises AWARENESS that we are here and to ask that we all SHARE THE ROAD. Wear a black arm band in honor of those who have been killed or a red arm band if you have been involved in a bicycle incident. This is a group ride together in silence and use hand signals. Helmets are required. Email me the name, hometown and state of any cyclists killed of which you know and we will read the names before heading out. Stephan Kieu, tcbc at slkieu dot com, and other leaders. For more information, go to www.rideofsilence.org. 18 THU 8:30 AM C 24-35 mi. AUGIE’S GATEWAY SOCIAL C RIDE. Starting/finishing at Maplewood Community Center 2100 White Bear Av, Maplewood, MN 55109. It’s about 3 blocks south of Highway 36 and about a block north of the Gateway Trail. Park in the middle of the lot. All riders welcome. Rest stop at the end of the trail. Optional lunch after the ride at Panera’s, just 1.5 blocks north of Highway 36 on White Bear Av. Augie aka "The Gus Meister" Muller, 18 THU 9:30 AM B/C 20/40 mi. THURSDAYS ON THE CANNON. Depart from Welch Village trailhead. Every Thursday from May 4 through September 28. Ride to Red Wing and return to Welch to complete the 20-mile option. Then on to Cannon Falls (40-mile option) for lunch at The Stone Mill. After lunch, it's a quick 10-mile downhill back to Welch. One of Minnesota's most beautiful, well-conditioned and flattest trails. Daily pass ($3) or season pass ($15) required. Don Picard. Various co-leaders. 18 THU 10:00 AM A/B 25-40 mi. HALF A GRAND. Depart from Steamworks Coffee and Tea Co, corner of 44th Av N and Penn Av in Minneapolis. Experience the best of north Minneapolis' parkways on this half of the Grand Round Tour. Come early for waffles at the coffee shop. Please park on neighborhood streets to the west and south, not in the coffee shop parking lot. Self-sufficient B riders welcome. Kelly Hazel. 18 THU 6:00 PM A/B 30 mi. THURSDAY THERAPY. Note new start location and time. A scenic ride into northern Dakota County, featuring a few hills and great river views. Depart from the parking lot of Health Partners, corner of Wabasha and Plato, across the Wabasha St. Bridge from downtown St. Paul. Park at the west end of the lot farthest from the building. Various leaders. May 4 and 18: Tony Wanschura, . May 11: Lisa Austin. May 25: Lee Thielman. 18 THU 6:00 PM A/B 20 or 32 mi. THIGHS, SIGHS, AND CRIES. A long-time western metro favorite. Leave from the parking lot in front of Woody's Grill at Shady Oak Road and City West Parkway in Eden Prairie. Join us as we experience the rolling hills of Eden Prairie and Minnetonka. A great hill training ride, with shorter options. Self-sufficient B riders welcome. You'll sigh and cry but your thighs will thank you! Restroom facilities at Super America on Shady Oak Rd across from Woody's. Dianne Bell, 612-554-1331; Rebecca Lawrence, 612-381-1070; Kathy Moe. 18 THU 6:00 PM B 23 mi. A DUTCH TREAT. Depart from Plymouth Station Shopping Center, Highway 55 and County 24 in Plymouth, 2 mi west of I-494. Park at north end by the tower. Scenic backroads of Medina, Maple Plain, Loretto, and Hamel. Rolling hills. Socialize over a light meal at Panera's after the ride. Map to start: http://zzzurn.com/maps/plymouthstation.html. Kay Mitchell, and Evie Walters. 18 THU 6:00 PM B 22-27 mi. HERE AND NOW. Depart from Now Bikes & Fitness, 3673 Lexington Av N, Arden Hills (just south of 694). Parks, trails, lakes--the usual pretty stuff. Cindy Hanson, ; Paul Huntington. 18 THU 6:30 PM B 20 mi. DEPART LATER THAN USUAL. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop, 2059 Snelling Av N, Roseville (651-209-1990), across from Har Mar Theaters on the frontage road by McDonalds. Why be part of rush hour traffic trying to get to a 6 PM ride when you can join us for a 20-mile ride that departs at 6:30 on May 4 and then at 6:45 for the remaining three Thursdays in May? With this route there is no rest stop. Water, restrooms, and a place to change into biking clothes are in the shop. Park at far end of lot in back. Plan to join us afterwards for a bite to eat. Reminder: Depart 6:30 on 5/4 and at 6:45 on 5/11, 5/18, 5/25. Kristine Poelzer, and Deb Matchinsky. 19-21: LOOMIS MTN BIKE WEEKEND. Cable, WI. See separate article. Rides each day. 19 FRI BIKE TO WORK DAY – see separate story for more details. 19 FRI 6:15 AM B/C 10 mi. BIKE TO WORK, ST. PAUL. Depart from Burger King parking lot at 120 (Century) & Hwy 36, Oakdale. Join us as we utilize some of the best trail system St. Paul has to offer. Our destination in Rice Park for the "Bike to Work" day festivities. View displays and learn how to "bike with buses" on the Metro Transit system. When gas hits $5 a gallon, you'll be glad you did! Ron Plinske. 19 FRI 6:30 AM B/C 10 mi. BIKE TO WORK DAY - WOODBURY. Depart from SW corner of parking lot at Valley Creek Rd & Weir Dr, Woodbury. Note Valley Creek Exit off 494 is closed. Ride to downtown St. Paul via roads and trails and enjoy food, giveaways and festivities in Rice Park before heading to work. Lucia Pierson(Web Ride) 19 FRI 7:15 AM B 7 mi. BIKE TO WORK DAY. Depart from Menard's parking lot, University Av and Prior, St. Paul. Celebrate Bike to Work Day! Ride to downtown St. Paul and enjoy the food, giveaways and festivities in Rice Park before heading to work. Lisa Austin. 19 FRI 7:15 AM B/C 7 mi. BIKE TO WORK ON UNIVERSITY AVENUE. Depart from Menard’s parking lot, corner of University and Prior Avenues in St. Paul. Observe Bike to Work Day and ride with us from St. Paul to downtown Minneapolis. Majority of ride will follow University Av to promote its viability as a commuter corridor. Please ride to the start location if you can! Cindy Hanson, and Richard Franco. 19 FRI 7:15 AM B 8 mi. BIKE TO WORK DAY - MENDOTA HEIGHTS. Depart from Mendota Plaza, Hwy 110 and Dodd Road in Mendota Heights, less than a mile east of I-35E on Hwy 110. Celebrate Bike to Work Day! Ride to downtown St. Paul and enjoy the food, giveaways and festivities in Rice Park before heading to work. Scott Larson. 19 FRI 10:00 AM B/C 30 mi. CZECH TREK. Depart from Lagoon Park (lot next to waterfalls) in Jordan, MN. Take Hwy 169 south from Twin Cities to first Jordan exit (winds under Hwy 169 heading south). Continue south on Hwy 21 to Hwy 282. Then turn right at light. Go 2 blocks to Varner St. Turn left on Varner St and proceed up the hill about 4 blocks to Lagoon Park on left (Park Dr). We'll ride on lightly traveled rural roads to New Prague, stopping for lunch and return. Terrain is somewhat hilly. This is a segment of the upcoming Jordan Valley Bike Tour (www.JVBT.org). Ambassador: Tim Bischke. Leader: Herb Schultz. 19 FRI 10:00 AM A/B 30-64 mi. MMVI METRIC. Try this classic ride to Marine On St. Croix and back. Depart from Vadnais-Sucker Lake Park, 4500 Rice St, 55127, north parking lot. May 5 and 19: Dave Pfuhl. May 12: Katie Angle. May 26: Michael McNutt. 19 FRI 10:00 AM C 20 mi. CHAMPLIN MIDMORNING RAMBLE. Depart from Trailhead Cycling and Fitness, 11351 Aquila Dr (115th and US 169), Champlin, MN (763-712-0312). Park on the north side of the cycle shop. This ride uses paved trails and low traffic streets along the Mississippi River, Coon Rapids Dam, and Elm Creek Park Preserve. Midride break and lunch at Culver's after the ride. Ride moves to Wednesdays in June. Phillip Lawson. 19 FRI 6:00 PM B 25-30 mi. TGIF DINNER SERIES. Depart from Burnet Realty at Highway 96 and Hodgson Rd in North Oaks. North on Village Center Drive, park in the rear lot. Optional post-ride dinner at Panino's. Map to start: http://www.zzzurn.com/maps/burnshore.html. May 5, 19, 26: Mark Gregory. May 12 and June 2: Lee Thielman. 20 SAT 7:00 AM A 183 mi. OUTREACH RIDE: 300 KM ROCHESTER BREVET. Depart from Walmart parking lot, just west of Hwy 52 on 55th St NW, in Rochester, MN. This is the second in a series of progressively longer training and qualifying rides for Paris-Brest-Paris and other 1200 km events. Or ride just for fun on great routes in southern MN. For further information and to register (required), see http://www.rasc-mn.org/rasc_randonneur.html. Charles Breer. NO TCBC INSURANCE. 20 SAT 7:30 AM B 35-45 mi. HAR-MARTIAN. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop, 2059 Snelling Av N, Roseville, across from Har Mar Mall, next to McDonald's. Explore lakes, trails, lightly traveled roads on this ever-changing route. Get up and ride. The yardwork can wait. Cindy Hanson. 20 SAT 8:00 AM A/B 48 mi. AFTON-COTTAGE GROVE HILL TOUR. Meet at Eagle Valley Shopping Center parking lot, SE intersection of Woodbury Dr (Hwy 19) and Valley Creek Rd in Woodbury. See Maps to Ride Starts at http://www.zzzurn.com/maps/espresso.html. Roll through the great hills of Afton and Cottage Grove and stop in at Espresso Donuts afterward for refueling. Dave Haerle. 20 SAT 8:30 AM B 60 mi. SPRING CAMPING RIDE DAY 1. A self-supported camping ride. Participants carry their own camping gear from Saint Paul to Interstate State Park. Will probably eat in restaurants, but single-burner chefs welcome. Contact Leon Webster, or Margaret Kelly, by May 10 to register. 20 SAT 9:00 AM A/B 65-75 mi. SEARCH FOR LEFTY. Depart from Plymouth Station Shopping Center. Two miles west of 494 on Highway 55, turn left on County 24. Park at the north end by tower. Self sufficient B riders welcome. Joel Stenoien, Andy Danielson, Doug Duoos. 20 SAT 9:00 AM A/B 41 mi. MORNING GLORY. Depart from the parking lot in Mendota on the north side of Hwy 13, just east and down the hill from St. Peter's Church. If the lot is full, park on the street. Please do not park in the church lot. No restrooms at start of ride. Ride to Rosemount and back, with the opportunity for a rest stop at the Morning Glory Cafe. Steve Scholl. 20 SAT 9:00 AM BC 25-30 mi. "NOW AND THEN". Depart from Now Sports 3715 Lexington Av. No. Arden Hills. We bike out of Arden Hills to Long Lake with moderate number of hills and a nice bike in the middle of the ride. Red Ribbon Riders Welcome. Paul "Thunder" Huntington Leader. (Web Ride) 20 SAT 9:30 AM C 15 mi. EASE INTO BIKING SERIES. Depart from Holiday gas station at 109th Av N and Douglas Dr in Champlin, west side of parking lot. For directions, see related article. A friendly set of 6 Saturday morning rides (May 13 and 20, June 3, 10, 17, and 24) exploring the North Hennepin Corridor Trail between the Coon Rapids Dam and Elm Creek Park Reserve in Maple Grove. New riders encouraged, all social riders welcome. Bring a full water bottle, spare tube, questions. Optional lunch afterwards. Carolyn Caswell, 763-315-3687; Neil Millam, 763-862-3780; Deb Matchinsky. 20 SAT 10:00 AM B 20-25 mi. SONNY SIDE UP. Depart from Sonny's Ice Cream at 3401 Lyndale Av S. Stay for brunch on the piazza after the ride. Great food! Kay Mitchell and Evie Walters. 20 SAT 10:00 AM B 30 mi. B RIDE WITH SOME HILLS. Depart from the bottom of Crosby Farm Road in Crosby Farm Park, along the Mississippi River in St. Paul. Entrance is at intersection where Mississippi River Blvd becomes Shepard Rd. The ride goes along the Mississippi River, with several nice climbs. Dave Dugan. 20 SAT 10:00 AM C 3-9 mi. SHOREVIEW TRAILS. Depart from the Shoreview Community Center, 4600 N Victoria St, Shoreview 55126. We will be riding the trails and some roads of the city of Shoreview. Please park in lower level far end of parking lot. Paul Huntington, Kristine Poelzer, Deb Matchinsky. 20 SAT 10:00 AM C 3/8/15/32 mi. SPRING CLOVERLEAF. Depart from Hay Lake Lions Park, 2 mi. south of Scandia on Cty 3. Riders have choice of routes and may ride one or all for up to 32 miles of (mostly) gently rolling back roads through Scandia and Marine-On-St. Croix. Routes will be marked and maps provided. This ride will not have a group start. Riders may start between 10-11 AM. Join us for this great family ride! Jan Hogle. 20-21: SAT & SUN 10:30 AM A/B *CRUISIN' THE COULEES OVERNIGHT*. Explore the winding byways of southwest Wisconsin. The Saturday ride of 60 miles or 57 less hilly miles will depart from Pepin, Wisconsin at 10:30 AM. Pepin is about 70 scenic miles southeast of the Twin Cities on WI Hwy. 35. In Pepin, turn right on Prairie St. for two blocks to 1st St. Veer left, cross the R.R. tracks, and park in the lot along the river front by the Pickle Factory Restaurant. After the ride, we'll head south 10 miles to Wabasha, Minnesota in search of dinner, and then we'll overnight there. The AmericInn Lodge & Suites of Wabasha (1-800-634-3444) is one possible choice. Do a web search of Wabasha, MN for other lodging possibilities. The Sunday ride of 62 or 42 miles will depart from Alma, Wisconsin at 10:30 AM. Alma is about 12 miles south of Wabasha on WI Hwy. 35. Meet and park on Main St. (WI 35) at the north end of town near Lock and Dam #4. The official breakfast will be at the Pier 4 Cafe, 600 North Main St. in Alma, just north of the Lock and Dam. The leaders will meet there around 9:00 AM. Some long climbs will be encountered, but the incredible views and glorious descents make it worth every bit of effort. Spring time cycling in "coulee country" is something that words really can't describe... it's simply a "feeling" you must experience. Come along! Bob Hoffman, Rebecca Lawrence and Tony "The Mapmaker" Wanschura. 20 SAT 11:00 AM C 20-30 mi. IT'S ALL ABOUT THE SCENERY. Depart from Health Partners Como Lot at Hwy 280 and Como Ave, St Paul. Exit 280 at Como and park in the main lot behind Health Partners. We will be proceeding along a route that includes most of the Grand Rounds, with stops at many of the places that give it the name, such as historic plaques, Minnehaha Falls, Eloise Butler Wildflower gardens. Plan on taking most of the afternoon, stopping at the scenic places you usually float by on other rides. We'll stop at 43rd & Upton for lunch break. Mapless. Since the roads are bad and all of the bike paths are new, we will use them. Mary.C.Miller. (Web Ride) 20 SAT 1:00 PM A/B 42 mi. SCOTT CARVER COUNTY TRAILS. Depart from Rainbow parking lot on Marshall Rd and Vierling Dr, Shakopee. A scenic ride through Scott and Carver Counties. Self sufficient B riders welcome. Markus Bohler. 21 SUN 5:45 AM A/B 62 + 79 + 100 + 151 mi. SUNDAY SUNRISE SOLITUDE. Depart from Perkins Restaurant, New Brighton [zipcode 55112], 2 blocks west of I-35W on County Road D. Choose one of four mileage options to ride in the country & city plus the whole Gateway Trail, starting with the solitude of a sunrise. Park at end of lot. Depart times and leaders often change each Sunday 5/21 depart 5:45 AM: Richard Franco. 21 SUN 8:00 AM A/AB 67 mi. ROLLING ON THE WESTSIDE. Depart from Holiday Gas Station Eden Prairie, Dell Rd and Hwy 62, 3.5 miles west of I-494 on 62. Park at far end of lot next to Dell Rd. An excellent training ride in the western suburbs. Eric Feld. Co-leader: Lee Stagg. 21 SUN 8:30 AM B 60 mi. SPRING CAMPING RIDE DAY 2. Return from Interstate State Park to Saint Paul. Self supported camping ride. Participants carry their own camping gear. Contact Leon Webster or Margaret Kelly, by May 10 to register. 21 SUN 9:00 AM B/C 20/40 mi. ST. JAMES HOTEL BRUNCH. Depart from parking lot north of Red Wing Pottery/Mall. 40 mile: Red Wing to Cannon Falls and back. 20 mile: Departs at 10 AM, goes to Welch Village and rejoins 40-mile group for return to Red Wing. Then bike or drive two miles to St. James Hotel for their elegant, fabulous 5th floor brunch at 1 PM. Brunch price, $16.75. Please RSVP so we can make appropriate brunch reservations. Don Picard, and Herb Schultz. Various co-leaders. 21 SUN 10:00 AM AB 45 mi. DAKOTA BADLANDS. Depart from Mendota Plaza, located on the southeast corner of Hwy 110 and Dodd Blvd. in Mendota Heights. This is located less than 1 mile east of 35E on Hwy 110. Park on the west end near Subway. Scenic ride through northern Dakota County. A moderately hilly route with a few thrilling downhill rewards. Jeff Johnson, Patt Seleen. (Web Ride) 21 SUN 10:30 AM. 42 or 62 mi from Alma, WI. CRUISIN’ THE COULEES. See May 20. 21 SUN 2:00 PM C 3-9 mi. SHOREVIEW TRAILS. Depart from the Shoreview Community Center, 4600 N Victoria St, Shoreview 55126. We will ride the trails and some roads of the city of Shoreview. Leaders Paul Huntington, ; Kristine Poelzer, Deb Matchinsky. 21 SUN SIERRA CENTURY BIKE TOUR (non-TCBC). 12, 30, 60, 80, and 100 mi. In and around Eau Claire, WI. Non-profit ride. See ad. Contact http://wisconsin.sierraclub.org/chippewa. 22 MON 10:30 AM B 29 mi. PINK EXPRESS. Depart from County Cycles, 2700 Lexington Av N, Roseville 55113. Park on Woodhill St. Ride past Owasso, Vadnais, and Bald Eagle Lakes. Marina Lim, . 22 MON 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. and B 20-30 mi. MILES FROM MAPLEWOOD. Depart from the HealthPartners Maplewood Clinic, White Bear Av and County Rd B. Go south on White Bear Av from Hwy 36. Leave the city behind and ride into the countryside of Ramsey and Washington Counties. Kate Kovar, and Jim Pederson, . 22 MON 6:00 PM B/C 15-22 mi. MELLOW MONDAY. Depart from Long Lake Regional Park main pavilion, New Brighton. Route varies weekly and may be map or mapless. Join us for a casual mellow ride round the northern suburbs. This is a stay-together ride. Weather will dictate the miles. Mike Daniels, Kay Mitchell, Dave Swaab, . 22 MON 6:00 PM B 25-30 mi. MY OH MY MINNEAPOLIS. Depart from the rear parking lot of Sunrise Cyclery Bike Shop, 612-310-6698, 3031 2nd Av S, Minneapolis 55408, on the east side of 35W and south edge of Lake St. Sample the best scenery of Minneapolis via premier bicycle routes of many paved trails and some roads. Arrive early to check out the shop - water and restroom available. Leader rides at the rear of those who ride a B pace of 14 mph avg. Route scout: Jamie McDonald. Leader: Kristine Poelzer, . 22 MON 6:00 PM AB 31 mi. MONDAY METRO RECOVERY. Depart from Lock & Dam parking lot underneath the west end of the Stone Arch Bridge (go northeast on Portland from Washington Ave then just past West River Road down a short steep hill to the Minneapolis Lock & Dam parking lot). Recover from your suffer-fest weekend rides with a metro ride after work. Relatively flat with 2 longer hills thrown in. Rebecca Lawrence. (Web Ride) 23 TUE 8:30 AM C 24-35 mi. AUGIE’S GATEWAY SOCIAL C RIDE. Starting/finishing at Maplewood Community Center, 2100 White Bear Av, Maplewood, MN 55109. It’s about 3 blocks south of Highway 36 and about a block north of the Gateway Trail. Park in the middle of the lot. All riders welcome. Rest stop at the end of the trail. Optional lunch after the ride at Panera’s, just 1.5 blocks north of Highway 36 on White Bear Av. Augie aka "The Gus Meister" Muller, 23 TUE 10:00 AM A/B 39 mi. MINNEAPOLIS GRAND ROUND. Depart from Steamworks Coffee and Tea Co, corner of 44th Av N and Penn Av in Minneapolis. Experience the best of north Minneapolis' parkways on the Grand Round Tour. Come early for waffles at the coffee shop. Please park on neighborhood streets to the west and south, not in the coffee shop parking lot. Self-sufficient B riders welcome. Kelly Hazel. 23 TUE 6:00 PM A/B 26/33 mi. GEARS, TEARS, AND FEARS. Depart from East Mississippi River Blvd and Hartford Av. Park on the south side of Hartford and in the three north lots of the Temple of Aaron. A classic hill ride and club favorite. Challenge yourself on St Paul's hills. It's easier than you think! Dave Erick, . May 9 Lisa Dust, , May 30 Pete Hawkins. 23 TUE 6:00 PM B/C, A/B 21-30 mi. BUNKER HILLS AND BEYOND. Depart from Bunker Hills Activity Center, 550 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW in Andover. Explore the northern Twin Cities metro area while riding through the open meadows and tree-lined avenues of the Anoka Sand Plain. Jim and Elizabeth Dohogne. 23 TUE 6:00 PM A/B, B 24-30 mi. LEFTY'S WESTSIDE RIDE. Leave from Plymouth Station Shopping Center, two miles west of 494, on Highway 55, turn left on County 24. Park at the north end by tower. Rolling hills on quiet country roads. Joel Stenoien, Andy Danielson; Doug Duoos. 23 TUE 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. SIGHTS FROM THE HEIGHTS. Meet at Silver Lake Village Mall north of 37th Ave NE on Silver Lake Road in St. Anthony. This will be an A/B-friendly ride with hills, few turns or signals. Dinner option. Jim Elwell, 612-827-5622, 1st Tues; Dan Miller, 2nd Tues; Irene Erickson, 3rd Tues; Roger Schoffhausen, 4th Tues; and Mary Miller. 23 TUE 6:00 PM B/C 18-22 mi. INTRO TO GROUP RIDING. Depart from Erik’s Bike Shop in Oakdale. From I-694, take 10th St exit. Shop is in the Bergen Plaza strip mall. Arrive early to shop for necessities, like a rear-view mirror or new patch kit and tubes. Tired of riding alone? Looking for new friends to ride with? Expand your environs and please join us for a casual ride. Seasoned riders, bring a friend who is new to cycling. For general info or directions to store, call Erik’s. LeAnn Plinske. 23 TUE 6:15 PM A/B 36/29/24 mi. THE ACAPULCO RIDE. Depart from the Acapulco Restaurant at 1240 North Frontage Road (of Hwy 36) in Stillwater. From I-694, take Hwy 36 east for 6.5 miles. Turn left on Washington Av (first stoplight past the Hwy 5 overpass). Take an immediate right on the frontage road for 1/4 mile to the Valley Ridge Mall and Acapulco Restaurant on the left. Dump the traffic! Relax on shady, undulating roads to Afton. Enjoy a taco or two after. Rain may force cancellation of the ride at the leader’s discretion, but we can still eat! Call me if in doubt. Bob Hoffman. 23 TUE 6:15 PM C 10-15 mi. BEAUTIFUL MINNEAPOLIS. Depart from St. Joan of Arc Church, 4537 3rd Av S, Mpls. (one block north and east of the 46th St exit of I-35W). This is a slow and easy ride. The group will ride together. Much of the ride will be on trails. Ride varies from week to week, and may be mapless. Edie Kalweit . 24 WED 10:00 AM C 20 mi. MENDOTA AND ST PAUL. Depart from the parking lot across from Axel's Restaurant, 1318 Hwy 13 in downtown Mendota. We'll trek into St Paul via the High Bridge with a rest stop at Caribou Coffee at Grand and Grotto. Then we return via Summit Av, Fort Snelling, and Mendota Bridge. Optional lunch after ride. Ambassador: June Johnson. Leader Herb Schultz. 24 WED 11:00 AM A/B 30/40 mi. HILLS WE CALL HOME. Depart from Indian Mounds Park, corner of Mounds Blvd and Earl St in St. Paul, top of the hill in the park. We'll see if we can find a couple of hills to climb as we get ready for those Wisconsin hill rides coming up next month. Might even make it down to Grey Cloud Island if the roads are open. Michael McNutt, . 24 WED 1:00 PM AB 35/50 mi. KICKING ALONG THE KINNI. Depart from Glen Park 2 blocks west of DQ and College Campus on 35/29 at Park St.in River Falls WI. Come enjoy the scenic and winding country roads on a quiet weekday afternoon. If weather turns foul call ride leader by 11 AM Bruce Berry. (Web Ride) 24 WED 6:00 PM B 20-30 mi. RIDING FROM RICHFIELD. Pedal away from Woodlake Lutheran Church, 76th and Oliver Ave in Richfield, on this ever-evolving evening ride. Enjoy the variety as you experience a new and different route each week. David Gepner. 24 WED 6:00 PM B/C 20 mi. CRUISING COON RAPIDS. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop in Coon Rapids next to Lifetime Fitness. This ride is on a paved trail and on slow traffic roads around the Coon Rapids Dam and the Mississippi River. There will be a midpoint break, and after-ride socializing at a local coffee shop or restaurant. Phillip Lawson, . 24 WED 6:00 PM B 25 mi. WHITE BEAR LAKE LOOP. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop at the NW corner of I-694 and Rice St. A scenic ride past area lakes en route to, and around, White Bear Lake. Optional dinner afterwards. Mary Derks. 24 WED 6:00 PM BC 20-25 mi. "KENT AND I". Depart from Now Sports 3715 Lexington Av. No. Arden Hills. We will bike out of Arden Hills/Shoreview in search of a few hills to climb for fun.Come a little early to shop Now Sports for your bike needs.Red RIbbon Riders welcome. Paul "Thunder" Huntington. (Web Ride) 24 WED 6:00 PM A/B 25-30 mi. STONE ARCHING. Depart from Lock & Dam parking lot underneath the west end of the Stone Arch Bridge in downtown Minneapolis. Go north on Portland from Washington Av, then just past West River Rd down a short steep hill to the Lock & Dam parking lot. No water at start. The ride uses East and West River Roads, Summit Av, and the High Bridge. Charlie Caswell. (Web Ride) 25 THU 8:30 AM C 24-35 mi. AUGIE’S GATEWAY SOCIAL C RIDE. Starting/finishing at Maplewood Community Center 2100 White Bear Av, Maplewood, MN 55109. It’s about 3 blocks south of Highway 36 and about a block north of the Gateway Trail. Park in the middle of the lot. All riders welcome. Rest stop at the end of the trail. Optional lunch after the ride at Panera’s, just 1.5 blocks north of Highway 36 on White Bear Av. Augie aka "The Gus Meister" Muller, 25 THU 9:30 AM B/C 20/40 mi. THURSDAYS ON THE CANNON. Depart from Welch Village trailhead. Every Thursday from May 4 through September 28. Ride to Red Wing and return to Welch to complete the 20-mile option. Then on to Cannon Falls (40-mile option) for lunch at The Stone Mill. After lunch, it's a quick 10-mile downhill back to Welch. One of Minnesota's most beautiful, well-conditioned and flattest trails. Daily pass ($3) or season pass ($15) required. Don Picard. Various co-leaders. 25 THU 10:00 AM A/B 25-40 mi. CITY EXPLORER. Depart from Lake Harriet Band Shell in Minneapolis. With Lake Harriet as our base we'll venture out and explore the beautiful metro area. Self-sufficient B riders welcome. Kelly Hazel 25 THU 12:30 PM AB 30/40 mi. AN AFTERNOON RIDE. Depart from Spring Gate Center by Applebees in Golden Valley, SW corner of Hwy 100 and Duluth . Enjoy a ride in the West Metro with a rest stop at the Retro Cafe in Loretto. Susan Evan. (Web Ride) 25 THU 6:00 PM A/B 30 mi. THURSDAY THERAPY. Note new start location and time. A scenic ride into northern Dakota County, featuring a few hills and great river views. Depart from the parking lot of Health Partners, corner of Wabasha and Plato, across the Wabasha St. Bridge from downtown St. Paul. Park at the west end of the lot farthest from the building. Various leaders. May 4 and 18: Tony Wanschura, . May 11: Lisa Austin, May 25: Lee Thielman. 25 THU 6:00 PM A/B 20 or 32 mi. THIGHS, SIGHS, AND CRIES. A long-time western metro favorite. Leave from the parking lot in front of Woody's Grill at Shady Oak Road and City West Parkway in Eden Prairie. Join us as we experience the rolling hills of Eden Prairie and Minnetonka. A great hill training ride, with shorter options. Self-sufficient B riders welcome. You'll sigh and cry but your thighs will thank you! Restroom facilities at Super America on Shady Oak Rd across from Woody's. Dianne Bell, Rebecca Lawrence, Kathy Moe. 25 THU 6:00 PM B 23 mi. A DUTCH TREAT. Depart from Plymouth Station Shopping Center, Highway 55 and County 24 in Plymouth, 2 mi west of I-494. Park at north end by the tower. Scenic backroads of Medina, Maple Plain, Loretto, and Hamel. Rolling hills. Socialize over a light meal at Panera's after the ride. Map to start: http://zzzurn.com/maps/plymouthstation.html. Kay Mitchell, and Evie Walters. 25 THU 6:00 PM B 22-27 mi. HERE AND NOW. Depart from Now Bikes & Fitness, 3673 Lexington Av N, Arden Hills (just south of 694). Parks, trails, lakes--the usual pretty stuff. Cindy Hanson, ; Paul Huntington. 25 THU 6:30 PM B 20 mi. DEPART LATER THAN USUAL. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop, 2059 Snelling Av N, Roseville (651-209-1990), across from Har Mar Theaters on the frontage road by McDonalds. Why be part of rush hour traffic trying to get to a 6 PM ride when you can join us for a 20-mile ride that departs at 6:30 on May 4 and then at 6:45 for the remaining three Thursdays in May? With this route there is no rest stop. Water, restrooms, and a place to change into biking clothes are in the shop. Park at far end of lot in back. Plan to join us afterwards for a bite to eat. Reminder: Depart 6:30 on 5/4 and at 6:45 on 5/11, 5/18, 5/25. Kristine Poelzer, and Deb Matchinsky. 26 FRI 10:00 AM A/B 30-64 mi. MMVI METRIC. Try this classic ride to Marine On St. Croix and back. Depart from Vadnais-Sucker Lake Park, 4500 Rice St, 55127, north parking lot. May 5 and 19: Dave Pfuhl, May 12: Katie Angle, May 26: Michael McNutt. 26 FRI 10:00 AM C 20 mi. CHAMPLIN MIDMORNING RAMBLE. Depart from Trailhead Cycling and Fitness, 11351 Aquila Dr (115th and US 169), Champlin, MN (763-712-0312). Park on the north side of the cycle shop. This ride uses paved trails and low traffic streets along the Mississippi River, Coon Rapids Dam, and Elm Creek Park Preserve. Midride break and lunch at Culver's after the ride. Ride moves to Wednesdays in June. Phillip Lawson. 26 FRI 10:15 AM C 25 mi. SOUTHWEST METRO SPRING RIDE. Mostly paved trails through Eden Prairie, Chanhassen and Chaska, with gorgeous lakes scenery. Luncheon / rest stop in Chaska at Hwy 41 and Pioneer Trail. Return on LRT (crushed stone). Leave from Erik's Bike Shop, 16376 Wagner Way, Eden Prairie. From Hwy 5, turn north on Eden Prairie Rd. Go one block, then right (east) on Wagner Rd. to Erik's in strip mall. Ambassadors: Duane and Diana Kasper. Herb Schultz, and Clareyse Nelson. 26 FRI 6:00 PM B 25-30 mi. TGIF DINNER SERIES. Depart from Burnet Realty at Highway 96 and Hodgson Rd in North Oaks. North on Village Center Drive, park in the rear lot. Optional post-ride dinner at Panino's. Map to start: http://www.zzzurn.com/maps/burnshore.html. May 5, 19, 26: Mark Gregory, May 12 and June 2: Lee Thielman. 26 FRI 6:00 PM B 20-30 mi. BY GOLLY IT'S GOOGLY (BGIG). Depart from University of St. Thomas main lot, Cretin & Summit Avenues, St. Paul. Use the Cretin/Vandalia exit off of I-94. I-35E/694 road construction keeping you south? Join us for a special Friday night edition of Great Googly Moogly. Julie VanMersbergen. 26 FRI 6:00 PM B 30 mi. DINNER AT DAVE’S. Leave from the Famous Dave's in Bloomington at 98th & Normandale, on this Southwestern finger-licking, TGIF alternative. David Gepner. 27 SAT ALL-CLUB MEMORIAL RIDE. Three routes from Shoreview: 29, 48, 63 mi. Leaders include Pete Hawkins and Doug Nelson. See story in this issue. 28 SUN 5:30 AM A/B 62 + 79 + 100 + 151 mi. SUNDAY SUNRISE SOLITUDE. Depart from Perkins Restaurant, New Brighton [zipcode 55112], 2 blocks west of I-35W on County Road D. Choose one of four mileage options to ride in the country & city plus the whole Gateway Trail, starting with the solitude of a sunrise. Park at end of lot. Depart times and leaders often change each Sunday 5/28 depart 5:30 AM: Charles Breer. 28 SUN 9:00 AM C 40 mi. HARDWOOD CEEK – SUNRISE PRAIRIE TRAILS. We’ll start / finish at the trail head in Hugo, MN, at the corner of Hwy 61 and 14. We’ll be going 20 miles up the trail und 20 miles back. We’ll make a lunch stop on the way back in Stacy, MN, about a block off the trail. Should you have any questions, fon Augie Muller at Hope to see you all there. 28 SUN 9:30 AM A/B 65-75 mi. WI HILLS MAIDEN ROCK. Depart from the park on the river in Maiden Rock, WI. Cross into Wisconsin at Prescott or Red Wing and take WI 35 south to the town of Maiden Rock on Lake Pepin. Turn towards the river on Chestnut St and into the park. Challenging hills and little-traveled rural roads. Shorter option available. Option for dinner at The Nortons Restaurant (Bay City) after the ride. Details on TCBC e-group during week before ride. If weather threatens, check TCBC web page "Ride Alert" link or contact ride leader before 7:45 AM on morning of ride. Tony Wanschura. 28 SUN 1:00 PM AB 35-40 mi. REVISIT TRIMBELLE RIVER . Depart from Gaslight Cafe, Trimbelle, WI, 10 miles E of Prescott. From dntn St Paul, head E on 94 and S on 61 to US Hwy 10 East, through Prescott 10 miles to Trimbelle. Don't blink!!. The ride offers a few steep hills, but mostly rolling, with a nice break weaving right along the river. It is highly scenic with the most beautiful views between here and Vermont. Call leader before driving to the ride (prior to Noon) to see if ride is cancelled. (Web Ride) 28 SUN 2:00 PM B 30-35 mi. SERENDIPITY. Leaves from University of St. Thomas parking lot, corner of Cretin and Summit in St. Paul (use Cretin/Vandalia exit from I-94). Various routes using trails and roads. Julie VanMersbergen 28 SUN OUTREACH RIDE: LEINENKUGELS CHIPPEWA VALLEY CENTURY RIDE. (Non-TCBC) 30, 50, 75, 100 mi. Paved routes around Chippewa Falls, WI. Non-profit ride. See ad. Contact: http://www.chippewavalleyride.us/. See Outreach Ride section. NO TCBC INSURANCE. 29 MON 6:30 AM A 60/75 mi. DUNN EARLY. Depart from Dunn Brothers Coffee East Lake St and West River Pkwy Mpls. Fast ride out to Mtka and around, flat warmup on Greeway then through the rolling hills around Mtka, Wayzata, & Excelsior quick rest stop possible at Dunn Brothers in Excelsior then finish with a few more minor hills and a nice cool down returning on the Greenway. Randall Huskamp (Web Ride) 29 MON 9:30 AM A/B 46 mi. GAIL ELLIOTT MEMORIAL. Meet at Northland Mall on Hwy 61 in Forest Lake. Join us in honoring the memory of a special person and TCBC leader. On this yearly ride we typically form at least two groups; one rides at an A/B pace and one at a B pace. Pete Hawkins. 29 MON 10:00 AM B 55-64 mi. MEMORIAL MUNCHY METRIC. Leaves from University of St. Thomas parking lot, corner of Cretin and Summit in St. Paul. Use Cretin/Vandalia exit from I-94. Take advantage of the day off with a social-pace metric. Lunch stop on route. Julie VanMersbergen. 29 MON 10:30 AM C 25-30 mi. MEMORIAL DAY / RED CEDAR AND CREAMERY BRUNCH OBSERVANCE. Ride departs from Menomonie, WI, Red Cedar trailhead. From I-94, exit 41A (Menomonie). Go south on Hwy 25, then west on Hwy 29, following the signs to trailhead. We'll have brunch at the Creamery in Downsville. Bring money for brunch and trail fees. You may want to check out the annual pass if you plan to ride Wisconsin trails often during season: $4 daily, $15 seasonal, subject to change. This ride may work as an add-on to riders doing Chippewa Valley Century Ride (Chippewa Falls, WI on Sunday May 28). John Hoffmann, Clareyse Nelson,; Herb Schultz. 30 TUE 8:30 AM C 24-35 mi. AUGIE’S GATEWAY SOCIAL C RIDE. Starting/finishing at Maplewood Community Center, 2100 White Bear Av, Maplewood, MN 55109. It’s about 3 blocks south of Highway 36 and about a block north of the Gateway Trail. Park in the middle of the lot. All riders welcome. Rest stop at the end of the trail. Optional lunch after the ride at Panera’s, just 1.5 blocks north of Highway 36 on White Bear Av. Augie aka "The Gus Meister" Muller, 30 TUE 10:00 AM A/B 39 mi. MINNEAPOLIS GRAND ROUND. Depart from Steamworks Coffee and Tea Co, corner of 44th Av N and Penn Av in Minneapolis. Experience the best of north Minneapolis' parkways on the Grand Round Tour. Come early for waffles at the coffee shop. Please park on neighborhood streets to the west and south, not in the coffee shop parking lot. Self-sufficient B riders welcome. Kelly Hazel. 30 TUE 6:00 PM A/B 26/33 mi. GEARS, TEARS, AND FEARS. Depart from East Mississippi River Blvd and Hartford Av. Park on the south side of Hartford and in the three north lots of the Temple of Aaron. A classic hill ride and club favorite. Challenge yourself on St Paul's hills. It's easier than you think! Dave Erick, . May 9 Lisa Dust, , May 30 Pete Hawkins. 30 TUE 6:00 PM B/C, A/B 21-30 mi. BUNKER HILLS AND BEYOND. Depart from Bunker Hills Activity Center, 550 Bunker Lake Blvd. NW in Andover. Explore the northern Twin Cities metro area while riding through the open meadows and tree-lined avenues of the Anoka Sand Plain. Jim and Elizabeth Dohogne. 30 TUE 6:00 PM A/B, B 24-30 mi. LEFTY'S WESTSIDE RIDE. Leave from Plymouth Station Shopping Center, two miles west of 494, on Highway 55, turn left on County 24. Park at the north end by tower. Rolling hills on quiet country roads. Joel Stenoien, Andy Danielson; Doug Duoos. 30 TUE 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. SIGHTS FROM THE HEIGHTS. Meet at Silver Lake Village Mall north of 37th Ave NE on Silver Lake Road in St. Anthony. This will be an A/B-friendly ride with hills, few turns or signals. Dinner option. Jim Elwell, 1st Tues; Dan Miller, 2nd Tues; Irene Erickson, 3rd Tues; Roger Schoffhausen, 4th Tues; and Mary Miller. 30 TUE 6:15 PM A/B 36/29/24 mi. THE ACAPULCO RIDE. Depart from the Acapulco Restaurant at 1240 North Frontage Road (of Hwy 36) in Stillwater. From I-694, take Hwy 36 east for 6.5 miles. Turn left on Washington Av (first stoplight past the Hwy 5 overpass). Take an immediate right on the frontage road for 1/4 mile to the Valley Ridge Mall and Acapulco Restaurant on the left. Dump the traffic! Relax on shady, undulating roads to Afton. Enjoy a taco or two after. Rain may force cancellation of the ride at the leader’s discretion, but we can still eat! Call me if in doubt. Bob Hoffman. 30 TUE 6:15 PM C 10-15 mi. BEAUTIFUL MINNEAPOLIS. Depart from St. Joan of Arc Church, 4537 3rd Av S, Mpls. (one block north and east of the 46th St exit of I-35W). This is a slow and easy ride. The group will ride together. Much of the ride will be on trails. Ride varies from week to week, and may be mapless. Edie Kalweit . 31 WED 9:30 AM C 20-25 mi. NORTHEAST / THEODORE WIRTH. Depart from Webster School parking lot at Adams and Spring St NE in Mpls. Join us for this social ride with lunch at the end. Clareyse Nelson,, and Herb Schultz, . 31 WED 11:00 AM A/B 30/40 mi. HILLS WE CALL HOME. Depart from Indian Mounds Park, corner of Mounds Blvd and Earl St in St. Paul, top of the hill in the park. We'll see if we can find a couple of hills to climb as we get ready for those Wisconsin hill rides coming up next month. Might even make it down to Grey Cloud Island if the roads are open. Michael McNutt, . 31 WED 6:00 PM B 20-30 mi. RIDING FROM RICHFIELD. Pedal away from Woodlake Lutheran Church, 76th and Oliver Ave in Richfield, on this ever-evolving evening ride. Enjoy the variety as you experience a new and different route each week. David Gepner, . 31 WED 6:00 PM B/C 20 mi. CRUISING COON RAPIDS. Depart from Erik's Bike Shop in Coon Rapids next to Lifetime Fitness. This ride is on a paved trail and on slow traffic roads around the Coon Rapids Dam and the Mississippi River. There will be a midpoint break, and after-ride socializing at a local coffee shop or restaurant. Phillip Lawson, . 31 WED 6:00 PM A/B 25-35 mi. THE WHOLE ENCHILADA! Depart from the Roseville Professional Center (SW corner of Hwy 36 and Hamline Ave in Roseville - 2233 Hamline Ave No.). Park at the west end of the lot. Ride past area lakes and parks with the Speedy Gonzalezes of the group or at a more leisurely pace. Join your compadres afterwards at Ol' Mexico or other establishment for fun and refueling. Andele! Andele! Epa! Epa! Yeehah!!! Mary Derks. 31 WED 6:00 PM BC 20-25 mi. "KENT AND I". Depart from Now Sports 3715 Lexington Av. No. Arden Hills. We will bike out of Arden Hills/Shoreview in search of a few hills to climb for fun.Come a little early to shop Now Sports for your bike needs.Red RIbbon Riders welcome. Paul "Thunder" Huntington. (Web Ride) (NOTICE: Non-bicycling TCBC activities listed in this newsletter are not covered by LAB insurance.) |