Moonlight Ride

Friday, July 18th
8:00 p.m.
(Rain Date: Next night, Saturday, July 19th)
Emy J's Coffee Shop
Downtown Stevens Point

The Event: This 2nd Annual Moonlight Ride starts from and ends at Emy J's Coffee Shop in downtown Stevens Point at 8:00 p.m. We will start off just before dusk and ride until after dark, all the time watching the full moon rising in east. In case of heavy overcast or inclement weather, we will hold the event on Saturday, July 19th--watch the Heartland website home page for go-no go plans.

The Ride: We will gather at Emy J's and then head out just prior to dusk. We will ride to the north and east on familiar roads. The moon rise on this date is at 8:06 p.m., so it should be visible in all it's glory soon after we begin the ride and continuously throughout the ride, depending on the cloud cover. We should be returning to Emy J's about 10:00 p.m. The total ride distance will be about 20 miles.

If you have never ridden a bike after dark with lights, you are encouraged to do so prior to this group ride. The biking environment is very different at night and having some experience alone or in a small group will help you to feel comfortable riding in this group, which can have 20-30 riders. Most importantly, remember that, for safety reasons, the speed on this ride will be very slow--in the 12-14 mph range. Listen to and obey the ride leaders who will be responsible for the over-all safety of the group and to keep it together by all riding at the same speed. Do not ride out in front of the lead rider and stay ahead of the designated last rider--both equipped with special safety lights and vests.

Bring your camera. We will have at least one stop for taking photos of the moon--they are always spectacular!

Special Equipment Needed: In order to ride on the streets and roads after dark, your bike will need to be equipped with at least a (white) headlight and a (red) tail light. Other reflectors (wheels and frame) are highly recommended. If you do not have night riding equipment, contact the event host(s) and you will be able to borrow the lights you will need for this ride from Heartland Club.