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Over 300 cyclists expected to participate

 

 LAKE LURE—Cycle North Carolina is headed back to Lake Lure and Rutherford County for Cycle North Carolina weekend “Mountain Ride” slated for August 4-6. Lake Lure previously hosted the inaugural Mountain Ride back in 2014 and again in 2015. Registration for the 2023 event is open at www.ncsports.org.

The Mountain Ride annually brings in over 300 cyclists to participate in a fully supported weekend of summer cycling along the scenic mountain back roads in the region. Tryon, Brevard, Forest City, Marshall and Bryson City have all hosted the event in the past. This will be Lake Lure’s third time hosting the event. This year, the cyclists hail from 19 states and range in age from 7 to 80. The fun-filled weekend will offer two days of cycling, plus many off-the-bike activities and opportunities to explore the beautiful mountain town of Lake Lure and the neighboring towns.

The Cycle North Carolina Mountain Ride is a fully supported bicycle event with support vehicles available to aid cyclists who experience physical or mechanical breakdowns. Rest stops will be set up every 10-20 miles along each route for riders to get off their bikes and explore while quenching their hunger and thirst. 

Cycling routes will pass through small towns such as Chimney Rock, Bat Cave, Gilkey, Ruth, Rutherfordton, Spindale and Mill Spring. The routes will also meander along the banks of beautiful Lake Lure. Routes of varying distances, from six to 63 miles will be offered to cater to cyclists of all ages and abilities. Cyclists will be able to visit attractions on and off the bike, with scenic and fun rest stops planned at Rumbling Bald Resort, Parker-Binns Vineyard, the Spindale House and the Emerald Woods.

The Cycle North Carolina Mountain Ride is presented by Retire North Carolina. Partner organizations of Cycle North Carolina include BODYARMOR, Truist, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of NC, Capitol Broadcasting Company, Harris Teeter, Fat Tire and the N.C. Department of Transportation.  The event is also supported by the Rutherford County Tourism Development Association and the Town of Lake Lure.

 

Submitted by Chip Hofler