Two big events Thursday night: Manifest launch and scenic bikeway video screening

Tonight’s event will feature the premiere of the
Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway video.
(Photo by Russ Roca/Path Less Pedaled)

One of the “problems” of living in a town with such a richly layered bicycle culture is that there is often too much of a good thing. This Thursday night is an example of when two big events — the Oregon Scenic Bikeways Video Party and the Oregon Manifest Launch Party — happen at the same time on the same night, forcing some bike lovers into a painful decision.

Here’s what’s on tap:

Oregon Scenic Bikeways Video Party – 6:00 to 8:30 pm at Chris King Precision Components HQ (2801 NW Nela St.)

Oregon’s Scenic Bikeways program is the only one of its kind in the nation. The cyclists who’ve ridden these community-suggested, state-adopted, best-of-the-best Oregon road routes know exactly why this program and the rides themselves are so special. But what about those who have yet to experience a Scenic Bikeway?

For you, we and Path Less Pedaled have been working hard on a series of inspirational videos highlighting each bikeway route and the things that make it a fun, beautiful and uniquely Oregon experience. And we think wintertime, while you’re dreaming up your next bike vacation, is the perfect time to watch them.

In addition to the videos, this is a great opportunity to meet Russ Roca and Laura Crawford of Path Less Pedaled. Travel Oregon has also brought in the proponents of each route to talk about why the bikeways are important to their community. The event will also feature the premiere of three new videos for the Tualatin Valley Scenic Bikeway, the Grande Tour Scenic Bikeway and the Twin Bridges Scenic Bikeway.

To further entice you, there will be beer from Base Camp Brewing and appetizers prepared by Chris King’s chef Chris DiMinno. This is a free event. More info here.

Oregon Manifest Launch Party – 6:30 to 9:00 pm at Ace Cleaners (1022 SW Stark St)
It’s been almost three years since we last basked in the wonderfulness of the Oregon Manifest. This is the event that looks to push the creative boundaries by challenging builders to create the “ultimate urban utility bike.” Organizers are being very tight-lipped about the details of this year’s event; but they have a history of surprising us with major partnerships and exciting new elements to the competition. We expect nothing less this year. Due to limited space, this event is invite only. Stay tuned for more info or sign up for updates at OregonManifest.com.