Cycle2Health

To participate in Cycle2Health Howard County (C2H), it will be important to review the Bicycle Guidelines and then register online.  A $15 fee will be collected at the time of registration (renewed annually).   

Registered participants are encouraged to join the Cycle2Health Listserv to receive ride updates and cancellation notices. To join, email [email protected].

Registered participants may opt to join the associated Google Group, Seniorbikers (not affiliated with the Office on Aging and Independence) to access ride cue sheets and connect with other riders. Click here to request to join the Google Group.  Email [email protected] with questions about Seniorbikers.

Rides take place during the week, during daytime hours, and depart from various locations within Maryland. Rides typically depart in the morning, with the exact departure time varying by route and season. Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled ride time to prepare yourself and bicycle for an on-time start. 

To provide an opportunity for safe and enjoyable riding for all C2H participants, two different level rides are offered each week throughout the riding season:

Casual rides are rides of less than 12 miles on relatively flat terrain at a relaxed pace. These rides are on pathways, trails or quiet residential streets with frequent re-grouping.

Moderate rides are rides of less than 20 miles at 10-12 MPH with some moderate short hills and maybe a longer hill. Moderate riders should be comfortable riding in some traffic and should know basic group riding etiquette.

Advanced rides are rides of over 20 miles at 13-15 MPH and will include moderate to steep hills with limited rest stops. Riders should be aware of their riding ability and limitations before participating in an advanced ride.

Cue sheets will be made available in advance of the ride and riders are encouraged to drive the route to determine if the route is appropriate for them. Riders just getting back to riding or those who haven’t had experience riding in a group venue are encouraged to start with the Casual Ride group.

Yes. Guests are welcome on Cycle2Health rides. They must sign a waiver to participate on the ride. Guests and unregistered participants must register after one ride to continue participating.

Instructional clinics are available at various times during the riding season. The instructional clinics focus on bike control, bike safety, rules of the road, and group riding etiquette. C2H registration is required to participate in the instructional clinics.

In the event of inclement weather, C2H will follow the inclement weather policy outlined below.  The policy was developed with reference to local, state, and federal government resources and partners to help ensure safety among C2H participants.  Certain forecasts will require ride cancellation, while at other times cautionary discretion will be advised.  In cases of cautionary discretion, a ride leader will determine if a ride will be offered considering the unique characteristics of that ride.  We ask that rider leaders and riders stay informed of current weather forecasts through direction and forecasting from the National Weather Service in order to recognize potential hazards and, considering personal health and riding experience, make an informed decision whether one should participate in a ride.  Participants are strongly encouraged to join the C2H list serve for information regarding ride updates and cancellations. To join, email [email protected]. 

When to Use Cautionary Discretion

Wind: ≥ 15 mph sustained winds for the period/duration of the ride

Rain/ Storms: Precipitation forecasts of ≥40% OR a Flash Flood Watch has been issued for the period/duration of the ride

Extreme Heat: Heat index is expected to reach 104℉ for the period/duration of the ride

Air Quality: Air quality index forecast of Yellow OR Orange for the period/duration of the ride

When Will Rides Be Cancelled?

Wind: ≥ 20 mph sustained winds AND/OR a Wind Advisory has been issued for the period/duration of the ride

Rain/ Storms: Precipitation forecasts of ≥60%, AND/OR a Severe Thunderstorm Watch, AND/OR Tornado/Hurricane Watch, OR a Flash Flood Watch, OR a Winter Storm Watch has been issued for the period/duration of the ride

Extreme Heat: Heat Advisory has been issued for the period/duration of the ride

Air Quality: Air quality index forecast of Red OR higher for the period/duration of the ride

Each participant provides their own bicycle, helmet, water, spare tube, bicycle air pump, tools to change a flat tire, and snack/lunch money as rides may conclude with a lunch outing. Each participant should wear a road ID on all rides. A courtesy road ID is given to participants upon registration.

A bike with a solid frame that is fitted for your height and equipped with multiple gears to assist in managing hills. Bicycles should be in working order to ensure safe and enjoyable riding for both the participant and group. We welcome e-bikes on rides; please notify your ride leader that you use one on ride day & select the appropriate ride level for yourself.

Dress for the weather, layers may be necessary in the spring and fall months. A neon, or other brightly colored shirt or jacket is recommended.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a ride leader, contact Rachel Filar at [email protected]

If you are a current ride leader, please click here for all necessary information and important documents.