Published May 3, 2024
Gear up for Bike Month with MetroParks cycling programs, resources this spring
Bike Month is this May and you can set yourself up for an entire spring full of cycling fun by checking out MetroParks programs this March and April.
With over 350 miles of connected paved trails, 8 bicycle friendly communities, multiple amazing bike shops, and a diversity of mountain biking options, the Miami Valley is a great place to be a cyclist. We are fortunate to have over 350 miles of paved trails in the Miami Valley joining together to make the Nation’s Largest Paved Trail Network. This network connects communities from Sydney all the way south close to Cincinnati. These trails offer a great way for families to get out and ride together, for riders to go out for longer rides and a unique way to travel between the historic communities that the trails pass. Did you know MetroParks offers trailside camping opportunities at Island, Taylorsville and Eastwood? These campsites are a great way to experience bike camping close to home
Bike Touring
For those who want to see local sights or perhaps even make a vacation out of a cycling adventure, bike touring is a great option. Whether you wish to pack for a single day excursion or a longer trip, MetroParks’ bike touring programs provide you with the resources needed for a fun, safe experience. Bonus: Your human-powered mode of transportation keeps you in great shape and lessens your carbon footprint.
Maintaining Your Bike
As with most gear, it is important to take time for regular maintenance – this includes your bike. Learn from MetroParks’ cycling pros as they help you with everything from common brake repairs to drive-train maintenance.
Mountain Biking
As opposed to biking on paved trails, mountain biking allows people to experience biking on natural surface trails, as they encounter different terrain, challenges and more.
The Miami Valley is also a great place to go for a mountain bike ride, with choice spots including John Bryan State Park, Caesar’s Creek State Park, MoMBA, Dayton Bike Yard.
Located at Huffman MetroPark, MetroParks Mountain Biking Area (MoMBA) is home to 9 miles of mountain biking trail for all ages and experience levels. Trails include a tot trail and advanced black diamond trail. Visit MoMBA any time during the park’s hours of operation. Because spring tends to be rainy, be sure to visit metroparks.org/momba to ensure trails are open before your visit.
No gear? No problem, MetroParks offers mountain bikes and helmets for those of all ages during Try Mountain Biking.
Just getting started?
Whether you have taken a break from cycling during the winter or it’s been a few years since you were on a bike, here are some resources that can help you get ready to ride:
TIPS & HOW-TO VIDEOS
WEBSITES & MAPS
SAVE THE DATE
Save the date for MetroParks annual National Bike to Work Day Pancake Breakfast on May 17, from 7 to 9 a.m. at RiverScape MetroPark. Enjoy flying flapjacks, live music and find community resources that help you Get Out & Ride. Learn more.
