Tour of Lakes Bicycle Ride 1996 - Brainerd, MN

Join us for an exciting day of cycling.

Come to your senses.....smell the fresh air, feel the physical challenge and exuberance, see the pristine wilderness, and hear the quiet of Minnesota's backdrop. Nothing quite matches the Tour of Lakes.

The Tour of Lakes is a recreational ride for cyclists of all abilities and is not a race.

The Ride

The 1996 Tour of lakes will begin and end in Brainerd/ Baxter and will be a part of the dedication of the Paul Bunyan Trail. In keeping with past tradition, we have again modified the routes to change the scenery. This year we will offer route choices of 35 and 70 miles. We have added a separate start for long course tandems only at 8:00 a.m.

Registration will be open at 7:30 a.m. for tandems and 7:45 for single bikes riding the 70 mile route. The 70 mile ride starts en masse at approximately 8:30 a.m. Riders for the 35 mile route may begin registering at 9:00 a.m. The mass start for the 35 mile route will be approximately 10:00 a.m. These start times should allow most riders to return to the area by mid-afternoon. All riders should plan to be off their respective routes by 4:00 p.m.

We are greatly concerned about the safety of our participants. All riders must obey the rules of the road, watching out for others as well as themselves. Our tour is entirely on public roads, and we must cooperate with other users.

We require the use of an ANSI approved helmet by all entrants.

Services

Two food stops will be available on the 35 mile route, and four on the 70.
Both routes will be monitored by support vehicles to aid in emergency situations and to help those with mechanical problems. Due to the large amount of Tour of Lakes riders, priority will go to those with serious problems. riders and their equipment ar expected to be in proper condition. As on all other rides, cyclists should carry tools, pump, and a spare tube.

The Tour of Lakes encourages family participation. Bikes pulling trailers will be considered as one unit. Riders under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult.

Lodging and Dining

Brainerd Lakes Vacationland offers information about lodging and dining.