Why not hang out in a park and watch a bike race!?
(Photos © J. Maus/BikePortland)
This weekend (starting tomorrow actually) will be yet another one full of fun for bike lovers in Portland. From big-time bike racing downtown; to live bands, beer and bikes at an outdoor festival; to one of the most anticipated rides on the calendar.
To help plan your weekend, I’ve highlighted a few of my favorites below…
Twilight Criterium – Friday at the North Park Blocks
This is one of my favorite events of the year (and yes, I realize I say that a lot). But seriously, as a former crit racer myself, I have great respect for how awesome it is to fly around 90-degree turns at 30+ mph in a huge pack just inches away from the guy next to you. But the best thing about the Twilight Crit is that it brings that thrill of racing to spectators. The organizers do a great job making this bike race a true Portland experience by setting up food carts, a beer garden, and other fun vendors. Racing begins at 6:30. Don’t miss it! PortlandTwilight.com.
HUB’s 4th annual BiketoBeerFest – Saturday from 2-10:00 pm at HUB Brewery on SE Powell
Billed as “The World’s Only Bike-In Oktoberfest Party” this event packs in the fun. Great for all ages, Hopworks really pulls out all the stops to have something for everything. This year they’ll have four live bands (see the set list in their ad in the sidebar below), local bike builders and a “cargo bike demo”, 15 Hopworks beers on tap, break dancers, gold sprints, the famed “Huffy Toss” competition, good food, and more! Hopworksbeer.com/BiketoBeerFest
Stihl Tour des Trees – Sunday at 10:00 am, leaves from Holladay Park
The Tour des Trees is probably something I should do a front page story about. It’s a week long event ride now in its 20th year that raises money for tree research. This year’s tour concludes on Sunday with a recreational ride through Portland with the Tour des Trees participants. At the end of the ride, you can take in the International Tree Climbing competition and Arbor Fair at Laurelhurst Park. Check out StihlTourDesTrees.org for all the info.
17th annual Bridge Pedal – Sunday
The granddaddy of all organized rides, Bridge Pedal returns on Sunday with its usual massive crowds and unforgettable routes around Portland. Ride over the Fremont Bridge, marvel at the view from the Marquam, hang out and roll with thousands of friends you didn’t even know you had. More info at BridgePedal.com.
OBRA Short Track MTB Championships – Sunday in Cascade Locks
Short Track is taking over Oregon. The finale of Portland’s local Monday series had a record 477 riders a few weeks ago. There’s also a fledgling series down in Salem that gets rave reviews. On Sunday, a state champ will be crowned out at Cascade Locks, which is yet another burgeoning MTB riding area in our region. Make a weekend out of it, get in some fun and accessible MTB racing, and have fun! More info at OBRA.org.
What’s on your bike calendar this weekend?
Thanks for reading.
BikePortland has served this community with independent community journalism since 2005. We rely on subscriptions from readers like you to survive. Your financial support is vital in keeping this valuable resource alive and well.
Please subscribe today to strengthen and expand our work.
It’s the Ultimate Bike Weekend! I can’t wait.
TWILIGHT CRIT:
A few volunteers are needed and volunteering is the best way to be in the heart of the race. You’ll get free Hopworks Beer and Hot Lips Pizza. See http://PortlandTwilight.com for more info.
BIKETOBEERFEST:
* We’re looking for a few more cargo bikers who want to exhibit their bikes in the Cargo Bike Expo. Contact me for details.
* Volunteers are needed, particularly in the evening. You’ll get free beer and a rad t-shirt.
http://biketobeerfest.com
* MC Jo from Filmed by Bike will be MCing during Builders and the Butchers and the Team Beer Goldsprints
See you all out there!
Since you are mentioning one OBRA championship race, the OBRA TT championship race is also on Sunday. See obra.org for details.
The Albany Covered Bridges Bicycle Tour – this Sunday. http://www.mvbc.com/event-CBBT.html