BikeMaine changing gears

Dear Bicycle,

As we head into the 10th iteration of BikeMaine this August we’d like to share an update. This year’s ride, based in the beautiful mountain village of Bethel, will be the last multi-day ride for the Bicycle Coalition of Maine.

After careful evaluation of the changing events landscape including the rising costs of goods and services, supply chain interruptions, rider preferences, and low registration rates, it has become clear that we can no longer deliver a high quality and financially viable multi-day ride. The landscape has shifted too far from where it was when we began this journey.

Our mission is as important as ever, and the BCM is dedicated to making communities all across Maine better for biking and walking. As we shift away from resource-heavy multi-day rides, we will put more resources into traffic safety education, local and state advocacy, and partnerships. We will still host single day and group rides under the BikeMaine umbrella that celebrate on- and off-road riding, explore the state, and encourage more people to enjoy Maine by pedal.

We’re announcing this now to be transparent and to encourage anyone who is interested in the 2023 BikeMaine Weekend to join us in Bethel, Maine’s most beautiful mountain village. Don’t miss your last chance to be a part of BikeMaine Weekend! And stay tuned for next year’s line-up of one-day on- and off-road riding adventures.

Thank you for being a part of our mission to make Maine better for biking and walking!

Jean Sideris

Executive Director

Ps. Looking for an off-road adventure this year? Join us in Millinocket for the 3rd annual Maine Woods Rambler!

About the BCM

The Bicycle Coalition of Maine supports better walking, biking, and rolling in Maine through education, advocacy, outreach, and events. As a membership-based organization, the BCM is powered by individual and business donors. Please consider joining as a member or giving an additional donation. Together, we can make Maine better for pedestrians and people with bikes!

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DEI Statement: The Bicycle Coalition of Maine is committed to advancing our equity and inclusion efforts. The Coalition is prioritizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in these focus areas: self-education, community engagement, advocacy, and events. We welcome community members and visitors of Maine—Wabanaki Territory—from all backgrounds to join the Coalition. Our most outstanding achievement will be that everyone who joins the Coalition or attends our events will feel respected and valued.