Adrenaline

Looking Inside an Active Northern Michigan

May 4, 2014

For area cyclists, the second annual Pumpkin Pedal in Traverse City on April 27 was a perfect way to send off an all too cold northern Michigan winter and herald the spring. Despite strong winds and chilly temperatures, more than 100 riders turned out to celebrate two-wheeled fun, great beer and some rare views.

It all kicked off at Jolly Pumpkin, where riders of all abilities geared up to circumnavigate the Old Mission Peninsula by bike.

Riders chose either a 20- or 40-mile route, with some of the more serious riders making portions of the ride "mini races," pausing to regroup inter mittently.

No matter the speed, what’s impressive at these community rides is the overwhelming sense of community and support: For every rider a wave, and to some, a bit of vocal encouragement and the reminder of cold beer and great food waiting at the end.

Area riders soon moved their attention to Mud, Sweat & Beers (held this past weekend), the Zoode-Mackinac Bike Tour on May 17, Conquer The Village on May 24, the Harbor Springs Cycling Classic on May 31 or smaller area races in May and early June. Here comes the season!

Cody Sovis is an avid cyclist, writer and Nutella consumer from Traverse City.