this morning outside Powell’s on
NW Couch at 11th.
(Photo © J. Maus)
– Slideshow below –
Can you feel it? That energy/buzz/mojo you sensed in the air when you woke up this morning was because Pedalpalooza starts tonight (as if you didn’t know already).
This our fifth year covering this distinctly awesome 17 days of bike fun and it’s gotten bigger and better each time around. (Browse our coverage from 2005, 2006, 2007, and 2008).
For 2009, there seems to be more events, more excitement, and more attention on the event than ever (and we haven’t even gotten started yet). On that note, run out and pick up a fresh copy of the Portland Mercury. Their rad “Bike Issue” hit the stands this morning and inside you’ll find the official Pedalpalooza Calendar pull-out. Stuff it in your bag. You’ll need it starting tonight.
The Kickoff Parade starts things off. Meet at 6:00 (St. Francis Park, SE 12th and Stark) to decorate your bike and we’ll ride at 6:30. It’s free. It’s fun. And it’s required riding to welcome another Summer of Bike Fun.
Since I’m feeling all nostalgic and such, I threw together a quick little slideshow with a few photos from the last four years of Pedalpalooza. (Warning: There’s both frontal and rear-al nudity, but it’s nothing to be afraid of. Really.)
Check the slideshow below, get all revved up, and then stay tuned to our super-special Pedalpalooza 2009 Page and to the BikePortland Twitter feed for full coverage. See you out there!
— Special thanks to Laughing Planet Cafe for sponsoring our Pedalpalooza coverage this year!