Rookie riders

Welcome to your first Bike MS: TRAM Ride! You're not alone. Last year, more than 300 riders participated in Minnesota’s biggest weeklong cycling event for the first time. National MS Society staff and more than 300 volunteers will be supporting you from start to finish.

Bike MS events are not races; you don't have to be a professional biker to participate. This weeklong event is geared toward riders of all skill levels and abilities. Last year, TRAM raised nearly $750,000 to help create a world free of MS. It's never too early to start fundraising. Each rider is responsible for a minimum of $300 in donations. Keep in mind that people can’t say yes until you ask!

Helpful insider tips:

• The most important thing on your bike is a properly fitting saddle. Spend some time in it to make sure it’s the one you want to be sitting on for 25 or more hours during the week. 
• Most riders start on the route before 6:30 a.m. If you leave at 7:30 a.m., you’ll be one of the last on the route.
• The speed of our riders averages from 10 to 18 miles per hour. Don’t feel like you need to go faster than you’re comfortable with, there are riders of all speeds on this event.
• Lines for the showers can get pretty long. The longest lines are usually between 1 and 3 p.m.
• Rest stop snacks and your finish line meal are provided. Restaurants and local vendors will be available. Most riders spend and average of $20 to $25 a day on food.
• Some riders choose to bring a small amount of spending money with them in case they want to visit the food vendors or local hot spots. Small bills are best.
• Bring plastic bags for your wet gear (swimsuits, towels, etc.).
• You may also want to bring a credit card and blank checks with you in case the worst happens and you need some major repair on your bike during the event.
• The bike mechanics come prepared with almost everything you could possibly need. If you forget a water bottle or one of your spokes break, these are the people you want to see.  
• If you’re a light sleeper, you might want a sleeping mask and ear plugs. They’re not all that attractive, but at least you’ll be sleeping.
• Information booths are located in each host town. If you have any questions or need any assistance, this is the best place to start.
• Your family and friends can join you for the lunch buffet at the finish line by paying $10.
• On the trail, keep sunscreen, bug spray, lip gloss, tissues and eye drops readily accessible.
• Each host city committee will have information available and a Bike MS: TRAM Ride flier with information. Be sure to grab one when you arrive in each city.
• Shuttle bus schedules will vary in each city. 
• As always, National MS Society staff are available to answer any questions or concerns you might have at bikeMS@MSsociety.org or 612-335-7900.