(Photo: J Maus/BikePortland)
Welcome to your menu of weekend rides and events, lovingly brought to you by our friends at Hopworks Urban Brewery
Now that we’re well into October, I guess it’s not too early to get into the Halloween mood. If you need some inspiration on that front, look no further than the Ghostbusters ride happening on Sunday. They’ll stop for a behind-the-scenes look at a graveyard, eat Ghostbusters-themed donuts, and ride bikes — that’s a lot of birds to kill with just one stone.
This weekend also ushers in the official start of cyclocross season. Yes, we know races have been happening for over a month now, but the start of the Cross Crusade is so momentous that it has earned its season-changing status.
Oh, and it looks like the rain will hold off until Monday! Have fun out there…
Saturday, October 11th
River City Bicycles Cross Crusade #1 – Alpenrose Dairy
This is the big weekend ‘cross fans have been waiting for. Two days of racing and fun at a legendary venue in Portland’s southwest hills. Expect two very fun courses, a huge expo area full of vendors, lots of team tents, and of course, huge crowds of both spectators and racers. More info here.
Reduce, Reuse, Bicycle tour – 9:45 am at AJ Java (6425 N Albina Ave)
PBOT’s Transportation Options crew is hosting this easy, family-friendly ride (part of their Portland By Cycle series) that will stop at several organizations that do sustainability-focused work. More info here.
Ventura Park Pump Track Cleanup Day – 10:00 am to 4:00 pm at Ventura Park (115th and Stark)
Help buff out and smooth the pump track in Ventura Park as part of Portland Park & Recreation’s Parke Diem project. This even is organized by the NW Trail Alliance. Registration required. Learn more here.
Three Speed Ride – 10:00 am at Paul Bunyan Statue in Kenton (8440 N Interstate Ave)
Ramble around the peninsula (St. Johns, Kelly Point Park) on your trusty three speed! This ride is sanctioned by the Society of Three Speeds, who reminds you that, “Three speeds preferred, but we will also allow 2, 4, and 5 speed hub-geared bicycles. (Sorry, no single speeds, hub geared bikes with more than 5 speeds, or derailleur-geared bikes.)” Expect a 25-30 mile loop with stops for a picnic and brewing tea. Bring your kettle and a camping stove. More info here.
Sunday, October 12th
River City Bicycles Cross Crusade #2 – Alpenrose Dairy
Day 2 will offer a completely different race course. Guaranteed fun. More info here.
North Tabor-Montavilla Bike Explortation Tour – 1:00 pm at Fred Meyer (6616 NE Glisan)
Join neighborhood activists to learn more about northeast streets and learn more about fun bike destinations (the Montavilla Farmer’s Market) and upcoming projects in the Montavilla/Mt Tabor area. Ride leaders will also help you find ways to access the 80s neighborhood greenway, safe places to cross 82nd, and more. More info here (FB).
Ghostbusters Ride – 1:00 pm at Kenilworth City Park (3214 SE Holgate Blvd)
Marking the 30th anniversary of the classic movie, this ride will stop at an open house event at the Davis Graveyard (famous for their Halloweeen decorations) and then hit up Krispy Kreme to buy limited-edition Ghostbusters-themed donuts. More info here (FB).
— If we missed anything, feel free to let us know and/or give it a shout-out in the comments.