BTCNJ's 36th Annual Ramapo Rally

Staged by the Bicycle Touring Club of North Jersey (BTCNJ), the Ramapo Rally is a 36-year old “must-ride” tradition for cyclists in the quad-state area. Cyclists from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and Connecticut participate in the Rally and pre-registration for the 2013 event is very strong.  Scheduled for Sunday, August 18 and starting from Campgaw Mountain Reservation in Mahwah, the Ramapo Rally is an annual cycling event that always delivers lots of fun. 

The Ramapo Rally has a variety of bicycle rides, from a challenging ultra century 125-mile route designed for more experienced cyclists, to an easy 12-mile cruise created for novice and beginning riders. Ride routes of other lengths, speed and difficulty of terrain are also available for recreational cyclists whose riding skills are at varying levels.

 All of the Rally’s rides are mapped through some of the best countryside New Jersey has to offer. Cyclists can ride the Rally routes on their own by using supplied cue sheets and following on-course directional arrows. Or they can join an escorted ride group led by a seasoned ride leader volunteer from the Bicycle Touring Club of North Jersey. In addition GPS files will be made available several days before the event.

Besides its fun and challenging cycling routes, the Ramapo Rally also is known for supplying lots of food. For breakfast, registered cyclists can select from a wide range of food that include bagels, spreads, baked goods, tea and coffee. And after completing their routes, everyone is treated to a scrumptious lunch and dessert. In between the start and finish line, you’ll discover all kinds of goodies at well-stocked rest stops.  Comfort facilities are available on each route, and SAG wagons patrol each ride ready to provide help to riders with mechanical or physical issues. All registrants will receive a free bicycle-related gift.

In addition, all non BTCNJ members will receive a free 3-month trial membership to BTCNJ, beginning August 1st. As a recipient of the free membership you will have the option to let the membership expire or you can renew after the 3-month trial period.

Adding to the fun is an expanded Marketplace Exposition. Comprised of bicycle retailers, service vendors and many other prominent companies serving the northern New Jersey area, the Marketplace Expo is a great way to view the latest merchandise and services geared to the needs of the bicyclist enthusiast.   

There is a registration fee to ride in the Ramapo Rally. Complete information on fees, registration forms, ride starting times, directions to Campgaw Mountain, the day’s agenda, etc. is available at www.ramaporally.com.  A portion of the proceeds from the Rally supports the activities of Camp Sunshine, a local facility for multiply-disabled children and young adults.