CALEB S. PATTON Managing Editor caleb@arktimes.com
MIKE SPAIN Art Director
LESA THOMAS LUIS GARCIAROSSI Senior Account Executives
MADELINE CHOSICH Digital Marketing Director
SARAH RICHARDSON Digital Ad Coordinator / Customer Service
WELDON WILSON Controller
ROLAND R. GLADDEN Advertising Traffic Manager
KATIE HASSELL Art Director / Digital Content Manager
ROBERT CURFMAN IT Director
CHARLOTTE KEY Accounting
ANITRA LOVELACE Circulation Director
ALAN LEVERITT President alan@arktimes.com
BRYCE WARD
cyclist based in Fayetteville and the Northwest Arkansas General Manager of local paper shredding company, Rock Solid Shredding.
CALEB S. PATTON is the Managing Editor of Special Publications at Arkansas Times and a beginner cyclist. He enjoys riding through his neighborhood on breezy afternoons and with the Pedal Party crew.
also been an avid cyclist since 2004. “I don’t get dropped, I attack off the back.”
MIKE SPAIN is a graphic designer and an art director with Arkansas Times. He’s
›RACE NEWS
Arkansas to Host NICA Central Regionals
Mountain bikers from 11 states will descend on Fayetteville’s Centennial Park for the National Interscholastic Cycling Association Regionals on Nov. 8-9.
The weekend-long festival will include riding and racing, clinics and an expo. NICA riders from leagues in Arkansas, Indiana, Kentucky, Kansas, Missouri, Mississippi, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas and Wisconsin are eligible to participate.
Tour of Arkansas Announced for 2026
In March, All Sports Productions announced that is was working on plans for the Tour of Arkansas, a international road stage race set for May 2026.
“For 46 years, we produced the Joe Martin Stage Race in Fayetteville, Arkansas, and became a fixture on both the North American and international racing calendars,” All Sports Productions owner Bruce Dunn said. “Now we are ready to expand our focus and our footprint with the Tour of Arkansas beginning in 2026. We will be working diligently in the months ahead to tap into the state’s resources to bring a new marquee cycling event to life.”
Initial plans for the Tour of Arkansas are for the event to be concentrated in Northwest Arkansas, including road racing, a time trial and criterium. If sponsorship funding allows, future plans could include expanding the footprint of the event to encompass other regions throughout the state.
Allied Releases New Able
Rogers-based Allied Cycle Works launched a redesigned Able gravel race bike in April.
The new bike features clearance for tires up to 57mm and internal storage.
“Gravel racing is evolving at an incredible pace, pushing bikes and riders harder than ever,” Allied CEO Drew Medlock said. “The new Able was born from that evolution, built to thrive on the most demanding courses, where speed, durability and adaptability are paramount. With massive tire clearance, integrated storage and precision handling, Able empowers riders to push their limits across any terrain.”
The Able is offered in three complete builds starting at $6,775 or a frameset from $4,500.
KAI
CADDY
›BIKE NEWS
KAI CADDY
COURTESY ALLIED
›RACE NEWS
Pedal Kids USA Launches App
Northwest Arkansas-based Pedal Kids USA has launched the Pedal Kids App for families to engage with youth cycling.
The app features skill development tracking, expert content and resources, community-based ride challengers, and allows families to sign up for local Pedal Kids classes and camps.
Pedal Kids USA, known for its mission to build a kinder, more connected world through cycling, has grown from a local program in Northwest Arkansas to a national movement. The app is a key piece in expanding that reach, helping families everywhere build lifelong habits through cycling, regardless of location. The app is now available for download in the App Store and Google Play.
Adventure Lodge Set to Open in Bella Vista
Campfire Ranch Little Sugar, a bike-focused adventure lodge, will open Oct. 10 in Bella Vista.
The lodge features seven rooms in a fully renovated, historic E. Fay Jones-designed inn. Amenities include a shared outdoor cooking space, sauna, cold plunge, fire pits, indoor lounge, gear storage, bike wash stations, grab-and-go snacks and daily freshbrewed coffee for all guests.
There will also be an Adventure Concierge service that connects visitors to local recreation including mountain biking, hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and paddle boarding.
Bookings are now live at campfireranch.co/booknow.
First Phase of Southwest Trail Opens
The first four miles of the eventual 65-mile Southwest Trail are open in Pulaski County.
The first phase runs from the Saline County line to Hilaro Springs Road. The multi use path is built atop an old railroad bed. Parking is available at the Iron Horse Church at 12611 Chicot Road in Mabelvale when gates are open or on pine straw, off the pavement, at Castle Valley Drive.
The trail will eventually connect Little Rock to Hot Springs.
COURTESY
PEDAL KIDS USA
The dynamic nature of the bike and the technique required for punchy group rides can feel like a daunting activity to jump into, especially when few other female riders are joining the pack. With the help of a local men’s team, we created Rock City Cycling. The goal of the team is to create a safe and encouraging launch point for women to confidently train and race together, even for those who have never raced before.
We eventually cruise back into the Clinton Center parking lot and regroup to chat a bit. Sometimes we’ll head over to Fidel & Co Coffee, which is a couple of blocks away, to refuel before heading home.
Our best rides (and races) are the ones all our amazing teammates can be a part of — Alex Wiggins, Kesley Winn, Jo Spencer, Halyna Pokhylevych, Payton Williams, Kaylie Noll, Kayla Lercher, Katelyn Alexander and
Fuel Up, Fellow Riders!
We are so grateful to our sponsors who have made this 2025 season possible and have opened a door for more women to race their bikes fast. These sponsors include Ortho Arkansas, Stewart Clark Inc., Intrepid Technologies, West Little Rock Glass, Psychiatry Arkansas, Little Rock Athletic Clubs, Bud Thomas Construction, Wild Birds Unlimited and Superior Concrete Inc.
LITTLE ROCK’S COFFEE HOTSPOTS FOR CYCLISTS
Need a mid-ride pick-me-up or a post-adventure brew? Little Rock’s got you covered with some fantastic, cyclefriendly coffee shops. Here are three top spots where you can park your trusty steed and recharge:
MYLO COFFEE CO. (HILLCREST LOCATION)
Nestled in the charming Hillcrest neighborhood, Mylo Coffee Co. offers a welcoming vibe and plenty of outdoor seating, perfect for keeping an eye on your bike. Their expertly crafted coffee and delicious pastries make it an ideal spot to refuel. Plus, other cyclists often stop by, so you might just find a new riding buddy!
FIDEL & CO
Located with easy access in the East Village, Fidel & Co. is a local favorite known for its passionate baristas and
exceptional coffee. They offer a relaxed atmosphere and are always happy to see cyclists roll up. Grab a perfectly pulled shot of espresso or a refreshing iced coffee before hitting the road again.
PETTAWAY COFFEE
Tucked into the energetic Pettaway Square, Pettaway Coffee provides a cozy and inviting respite for cyclists. Pull up, park your bike nearby and enjoy their thoughtfully sourced coffee. It’s a fantastic place to take a breather, maybe grab a pastry and soak in the unique vibe of the surrounding neighborhood before continuing your ride.
So, next time you’re pedaling through Little Rock, make sure to swing by one of these cyclist-approved coffee havens! You deserve a great cup and a friendly atmosphere. Happy riding!
Maddie Wacker.
Post-ride chats aren’t all serious.
when I was shopping for a space for the shop, I wanted to make it sustainable. Sometimes when you get up you don’t really feel like riding, but can I still ride? It’s 1.18 miles to my house from here. That’s something I’m proud of that I’ve stuck to.
WHAT’S A GOOD BIKE FOR BEGINNERS?
A fitness hybrid, so not a cruiser, but certainly not anything racy. It’s like if you start running, you’re not going to run 10 miles the first time out. So, on a bike, start out just doing two, three miles, five miles that you build up. You want to feel stable, comfortable and confident. Utilize that infrastructure, like the Big Dam Bridge and the River Trail. You don’t have to go ride down a city street. See how far you can go.
WHAT BRANDS DO YOU CARRY?
I’ve been a Surly dealer since day one. My favorite company to deal with is the owner of Surly and Salsa — QBP. I really like dealing with that company and they’re very much in business to keep little guys like me alive. I knew a lot of people from the Arkansas Bicycle Club back then. The ABC group had all decided they wanted to start doing some loaded, unsupported tours, you know,
The Two Rivers Bridge, if you really want to get on a road bike and want to go do some real mileage, that’s a wonderful bit of infrastructure to get you on out there towards Pinnacle Mountain.
just get out there and camp, and it became kind of a big thing and I loved it and I was into that. Surly had the Long Haul Trucker at that time that had become No. 1 for an affordable touring bike. I pretty much sold them all on Truckers and they loved them and they worked great.
At first, I’ve got to say, Salsa didn’t work as well as I was hoping it would, maybe the first year or two, but I would say the last three years, it’s been my hottest brand. And, of course, the gravel craze is a big part of that. Salsa, you could argue, they actually created the gravel category.
WHAT HAS HELPED DEVELOP THE CYCLING COMMUNITY IN LITTLE ROCK?
It’s a wonderful thing to see the changes that I’ve seen. The Big Dam
Williamson’s pristine Schwinn Paramount usually hangs in the showroom.
CREATING SAFER COMMUNITIES
PLANNING. ENGINEERING. DESIGN.
Ride Ready, Ride Prepared
As you’re preparing to make the first, hesitant steps into the world of cycling, the good folks over at The Ride in Conway have taken the time to curate the following guide for beginners. No matter what you’re looking for, The Ride, 2100 Meadowlake Road, Conway, (501) 764-4500, has everything you need to get started on your journey.
break the bank. So keep sweat out of your eyes and look cool doing it.
RAVEMEN FR300 DAYTIME RUNNING SAFETY LIGHT
This handy little light mounts directly underneath your Garmin head unit, so it leaves all of your handlebar real estate for other needs. Run this bad boy during the day or night to raise awareness that you are there.
CAMELBAK PODIUM STAINLESS
EVERYONE DESERVES A BIKE
PEDAL IT FORWARD AIMS TO INCREASE ACCESS TO BICYCLES FOR ALL.
STORY AND PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAI CADDY
On a gorgeous mid-April early evening at the Springdale Housing Authority apartment complex near downtown, parents and their children lined up eagerly.
Kenny Williams and his crew from Pedal It Forward were unloading and lining up bikes and helmets for about 50 kids.
Williams and his organization were prepping the first of three bike giveaways set to take place at the complex this summer. Last year, Pedal It Forward gave away 3,100 bikes. They’re donated, repaired by volunteers and given back to those who need a bike.
Pedal It Forward’s mission is simple: to increase the number of people who have access to bikes for health, recreation and transportation. The group’s vision is ambitious: Everyone in Northwest Arkansas will have access to a working bicycle.
The organization was founded in 2014 by Bentonville cyclists Gary Vernon, David Tovey and Justin Tubb. The trio had the idea to gather old bikes from neighbors to do a neighborhood giveaway during the holiday season.
“That turned into 40 bikes just that December,” Williams, Pedal It Forward’s executive director, said. “They just did that in their garage and thought, ‘Wow, this could be a thing if we kept asking people for bikes.’ So they did.”
The bikes have never stopped coming. Pedal It Forward has donated more than 10,500 bikes in 10 years. The group expanded to two connected garages and a building next door in Bentonville to house and repair all the donated bikes. Soon after, they added a Rogers location and just last year expanded into Washington County with a shop in Springdale next to the Jones Center.
Kids wasted no time pedaling away on their new bikes.
A good helmet is a must-have..
“We give tons of bikes away directly through schools and school counselors.
“We fill up the space at all of them,” Williams said. “We are constantly cramming things in.”
Actual full-time employees came much later, Williams said. The first half of the operation’s life was fully run by volunteers. All of the bike repairs are still done by volunteers — Williams estimates 60 to 80 regular volunteers a year. But Pedal It Forward also hosts groups.
“Just this week, (Operations Manager) Joe (Maneiro) hosted 15 people from Sam’s Club,” Williams said. “Last Saturday, I hosted 10 people from a therapy clinic. And the previous Tuesday, I hosted a group from Walmart, so we have hundreds of groups coming through in one-off capacities that help us a lot.”
Williams wasn’t Pedal It Forward’s first employee, but those hired before him were semi-retired and never intended to make Pedal It Forward a career. But, Williams has jumped at the chance, and has since added Maneiro and Springdale shop manager Justin Thacker as full-time employees.
“We’re three employees strong,” Williams said. The majority of the group’s bikes still come from individual donations, but Pedal It Forward pulls from various sources.
“We are getting a lot of return bikes from local Walmart Supercenters,” Williams said. “We’re getting them from city parks and recs. We’re getting city police departments calling us with abandoned bikes. We got 16 bikes from Boston Mountain Solid Waste out in Prairie Grove. They’re a brand-new partner. The city of Fayetteville is now collecting for us.”
Occasional bike drives also help keep inventory high. Williams said a neighborhood bike drive can easily result in 40-50 donated bikes. The most success has come from city-wide drives.
“The first one we did was Bella Vista, and we’ve worked with almost every city now,” Williams said. “We almost always pull in more than 100 bikes in a four-hour bike drive. The most recent one we did was in Rogers. We put three trailers at three parks across the city, and I think we pulled in 110 bikes just between 9 and noon.”
Pedal It Forward really shines, though, when the bikes are given away. Most of the bikes are distributed through their Pedal Partners, a collection of nonprofits that pass the bikes on to their clients in need.
“We just dropped 12 bikes at True Self Recovery, which is a really, really good addiction
FUTURE OF PEDAL IT FORWARD
Pedal it Forward’s executive director, Kenny Williams, said the next step in the business is working on a way to pivot into repairing bikes for those who aren’t able to afford repairs.
“A bike is great, but all bikes break and, unfortunately, fixing a bike can be as expensive as purchasing a bike, depending on the bike and the problem,” he said. “So, we’re starting to realize that we’re gonna have to be strategic about how we offer bike repair in a way that doesn’t compete with our local bike shops. We have such a good relationship with them. They send people to us all the time. That’s because sometimes they have to have the honest conversation: Your bike is totaled or the cost to repair your bike at the market rate is way out of your budget, but there’s a place that can help you.”
Williams said they are also working on ways to get higher-quality bikes to those who have shown a passion for cycling.
recovery and job placement program,” Williams said. “We keep all their clients on bikes. We give tons of bikes away directly through schools and school counselors. All the homeless shelters, Seven Hills, New Beginnings, the Salvation Army in Bentonville, we keep them on bikes. We partner with the people who help the people who need them.”
The giveaways when the staff and volunteers are present, though, like the one on that April night in Springdale are where Pedal It Forward shines.
“The big kind of celebratory giveaways are special,” Williams said. “We do six or eight of those a year. The big ones are when we go to the big backpack giveaway at Arvest Ballpark and several hundred people come through there. We try to give away at least 100 bikes. We do a big giveaway at the Boys and Girls Club in early December every year.”
The Springdale giveaway was a new project where they brought the bikes directly to the people.
As the crew lined up the bikes and helmets, those in line waited patiently, counting down the time until the giveaway was set to begin at 5:30.
And when 5:30 came, the volunteers and staff walked everyone through their helmet and bike choices. Just 15 minutes later, 50 kids were riding off with big smiles and the mission was complete for the night.
Thacker said he hoped for similar crowds, if not bigger, at the next two giveaways at the apartment complex.
“We believe everyone deserves a bike,” Williams said. “It’s just a bike, right? Like, we’re not feeding people. We’re not fixing people. But we believe in the power of bikes to be both preventative and a solution for a lot of people’s problems, or the power that the joy of having a bike to get to wherever you’re going, or just for fun, can be. We don’t say you have to need transportation as an adult to get a bike. If you can’t afford a bike, but you just want a bike to put a smile on your face, you’re qualified.”
“We are focusing on more creative ways to get bikes to the right people,” he said. “We’re encouraging donations of entry-level mountain bikes. A subset of ‘everyone deserves a bike’ is that every kid who has actually fallen in love with mountain biking and joined the NICA team deserves a decent mountain bike. We run it the same way, but we hold every decent mountain bike that comes through and we are constantly asking the NICA coaches who’s that kid on your team who’s on a loaner who’s gonna have to return their bike at the end of the season?”
Moving into the rural areas of Benton and Washington counties has also been a point of emphasis.
“We’ve been going hard in Pea Ridge,” Williams said. “We’ve been doing tons of bikes in Decatur. We did a bike giveaway last year in Goshen. We’re getting onto these towns that are growing. Benton and Washington counties are big places, they want bikes out there to rip around on the dirt roads.”
Bikes await their new home.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
PEDAL IT FORWARD NWA
Williams said the biggest ways to support are:
1. Donate a bike or your old bike stuff. 2. Volunteer.
3. $25 funds the repair of one bike.
Locations
Bentonville: 3902 NWWishing Springs Road. Rogers: 315 W. Olive St. Springdale: 922 E. Emma Ave.
Visit pedalitforward.org for more info
In Central Arkansas RECYCLE BIKES FOR KIDS
717 E. 10th St., North Little Rock
Founded in 2008, RB4K has donated more than 23,000 bikes. Donated bikes go to kids for free. Adults have the opportunity to earn bikes.
The shop is open for volunteers Mondays from 1-7 p.m. or by appointment throughout the week.
Bike donations can be dropped off at: Arkansas Cycling and Fitness, The Community Bicyclist, J&P Bike Shop, Southwest Bike Shop, Spokes, Trek of Little Rock, Shift Modern Cyclery and Subaru of Little Rock. Visit recyclebikesforkids.org for more info.
CONWAY CYCLING PROJECT
1820 Old Morrilton Highway
The Conway Cycling Project assists residents of Conway with bicycle repairs, maintenance and safety instruction, and also takes in gently used bikes and refurbishes them for those who need bicycles.
Volunteer hours vary by week. Check the group’s Facebook group for updates. Visit cycleconway.com/conway-cycling-project for more information.
Pedal It Forward staff makes sure bikes and helmets fit their new riders (above and below).
A volunteer wrenches away on a donated bike in the Springdale shop.
HOW TO GET CYCLING
BY BRYCE WARD • PHOTOGRAPHY BY KAI CADDY
The title of this article is a little misleading. There is no right way to get into cycling. It comes in too many distinct forms, and our reasons for riding are too personal and ever-changing for a single route to suffice. The best I can do is give you a few pointers.
Cycling has had a transformative impact on my own life and the lives of many others. If you stick with it long enough and learn to cultivate a healthy relationship with it, I’m confident it can do the same for you.
TIP 1
A BIKE RIDE SHOULD NOT BE AN UNCOMFORTABLE EXPERIENCE.
When you first begin riding, you are bound to experience some discomfort on the bike. A sore bottom, a tight neck and numb fingers are some of the most common early symptoms. But with the right-sized bike, a proper fit and good form, your body will learn to adapt to the bicycle and symptoms like these will subside, allowing you to enjoy your time both on and off the bike.
Before choosing a bike, do some research on the right-sized frame for your height. A bike shop is not necessarily the best source to trust, as they could have incentives to sell off inventory that may or may not align with what your body needs.
Once you have a bike, a good fit is crucial to an enjoyable and efficient ride. Some of the most important factors to consider are your saddle’s height and position over the pedals, the distance between your saddle and the contact points on your handlebars, and the cleat position under your shoes if you decide to use clip-in pedals. YouTube and online articles are great places to start. If you have money to spare, though,
a professional bike fit can be well worth the investment, especially when you are just getting started.
A bike fit can only provide so much comfort. At the end of the day, riding puts our bodies in a restricted position for prolonged periods of time. The more we ride, the more likely it is that nagging imbalances will develop. Off-the-bike activities — such as mobility exercises, stretching, yoga, weightlifting, and running—that address parts of the body that cycling neglects are indispensable to keeping your body (and mind) well-balanced.
Good on-bike form is also important. Keep a light but firm grip on the handlebars, paying mind not to place too much of your weight through your arms (the right amount is likely less than you think). Try to find a stable foundation between your sit bones and saddle (if you feel numbness down there, you will need to adjust your form or fit or find a different saddle). Occasionally standing up while pedaling can help, too (try to keep your weight centered over the cranks instead of the handlebars for a more stable and powerful position).
INTO CYCLING
TIP 2
TAKE CARE OF YOUR BIKE AND IT WILL TAKE CARE OF YOU.
Bike maintenance is not the most glorious part of cycling, but it is important. If you keep your bike in good functioning order, your rides will be more enjoyable, safer and quieter.
There are a lot of great resources online to help you get started with some of the smaller tasks like airing up your tires to the right PSI (it may be lower than you think) and regularly cleaning your bike (it’s especially important to clean the chain and cassette, and to keep the chain well lubricated). For the more complicated tasks that require specialized equipment, you will want to find a local bike shop that you trust.
Your knowledge of bike maintenance will improve over time, so try not to get discouraged. A surprising amount can be achieved with a little bit of patience and a large set of tools.
TIP 3
FUEL YOUR BODY.
In cycling, there is a phenomenon known colloquially as a “bonk.” Runners may call it “hitting the wall.” Essentially, it means your body has run out of fuel or, more specifically, glucose. The result is an impending sense of doom and a gradually worsening state of sluggishness and lightheadedness that only subsides after you manage to crawl off your bike and devour the nearest food in sight.
Bonking is not only unpleasant, but also detrimental — it can cause muscle loss, immune system vulnerability, and inhibit the body’s ability to perform and rebuild. If you ride for long enough, you will likely experience a bonk at some point, but do your best to avoid it.
Cycling requires a significant amount of energy, and it’s easy to underestimate the number of calories your body needs. Bring more food and fluids on your rides than you think you need. There are plenty of great resources out there to help you determine the right fueling strategy for your situation.
TIP 5
RIDE WITH OTHERS.
It’s ok and even beneficial to ride by yourself sometimes, but there is a lot of value in riding with others, too. Ride with a friend or loved one. Try out some local group rides. Enter an event. When you ride with others, you open yourself to the possibility of learning new things and building new friendships and connections. Having others to ride with can also help you maintain motivation. The social aspect of cycling is one of its greatest benefits, particularly in our digital age.
TIP 4
DON’T WORRY ABOUT NUMBERS.
Speed, power, heart rate, cadence, weight, distance, elevation gain … cycling, for better or for worse, is saturated with numbers, and apps like Strava don’t help matters. Metrics can be helpful reference points, especially if you’re training for a specific goal, but they can also be distracting and even detrimental to your long-term enjoyment and performance. The most important metric while riding is how you feel. Try not to give too much weight to numbers and resist the urge to compare yourself to others. Everyone is at a different point in their fitness journey. Focus on your progress. Improvement in cycling takes time — years, even. The best way to reach your goals on a bike is to pursue them with patience and purpose.
TIP 6 BE CAUTIOUS OF CONSUMERISM.
It’s easy to mistake a passion for cycling with a passion for purchasing cycling-related products. There is no shortage of companies out there promising to improve our cycling experience or performance, but surprisingly little is needed to enjoy a bike ride (or to go fast, if that is one of your goals).
I’m not advocating that you become a monk on the bike — sometimes it’s nice or even necessary to upgrade your equipment and apparel — but try not to fall into the slippery trap of consumerism. Learn to love the act of riding itself and give secondary importance to the material side of cycling.
TIP 7
BE WILLING TO GO BEYOND YOUR COMFORT ZONE.
The very act of learning how to ride a bicycle requires a degree of blind faith. The fact that we can balance on two wheels by staying in motion is itself a sort of miracle.
As you progress through cycling, you will continually confront uncharted territory — roads and trails you’ve never ridden before, speeds you’ve never gone before (with only a helmet as protection, that is), clothes you’ve never worn before and a variety of other experiences that will require a bit of courage and calculated risk.
Err on the side of action. Embrace the unknown. The only way to discover what is on the other side of you and a tough decision is to take a leap of faith. You will likely fall over or wreck at some point. You will likely fall short of your aspirations from time to time. But it is much better to try and to fail than not to try and never know.
TIP 8
MAKE CYCLING A HABIT.
If you wait for the perfect conditions to ride, or only ride when motivation strikes, it is difficult to build a sustainable habit. If cycling does not become a habit, there’s a good chance you will lose interest in it altogether, depriving you of the many great experiences and benefits that cycling has to offer.
Consistency looks different for each person. For some, it could mean one ride a week, for others, one ride a day. Reflect on your long-term motivations for riding and keep them in mind when the well of motivation dries up. Any amount of time spent on a bike is time well spent. It all adds up, and it’s all worthwhile.
TIP 9
ENJOY THE RIDE.
The bicycle is a simple machine with a profound ability to enhance the quality of our lives (in large part due to its simplicity). Unlike much of the technology in our modern world, the bicycle feels like a natural and complementary extension of the human body.
When we encounter a hill or a headwind, we must toil up or against it; when we crest a hill or catch the wind, we reap the fruits of our labor, no different from any other creature on earth. The output of a bicycle is proportional to the effort we exert into it, and over time this interplay of energy equates to a deeply gratifying and rewarding experience.
There are a lot of distractions in life, but a bike ride is a great way to stay grounded in the present moment and connected with the natural world around us that we often overlook. Don’t take cycling or yourself too seriously, and enjoy the ride.
›UPCOMING EVENTS
Mark Your Calendar
Mark your calendar and gather your gear, because there’s always another ride or race to participate in The Natural State. We’ve listed and organized all of the cycling events throughout Arkansas and no matter your level of experience, you’re sure to find a ride that fits your skills and preferences.
NATURAL STATE CRITERIUM SERIES
May 7
$20-$25
Springdale (Road)
One of the richest weeknight criterium race series in the country in downtown Springdale. Registration is open at bikereg.com/natural-state-criterium-series-springdale.
UGLY GNOME
May 10
$20-$45
Conway (Mountain)
Cross-country mountain bike race at the Meadows Tech Park. Part of the Arkansas Mountain Bike Championship Series. Visit ambcs.com for more information.
FEMMES GRAVEL 100
May 10
$40-$60
Bentonville (Gravel)
A 100-mile gravel ride that’s the culmination of a four-month training program
that includes on- and off-bike clinics for people identifying as femme. Register at bikereg.com/femmes-gravel-100
OZ KIDS CRIT CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
May 10
$15
Pea Ridge (Road)
One of five kids races in a series throughout Northwest Arkansas. Each race is scored; scores accumulate throughout the series with an overall podium celebrated at the final race in October. To qualify for the overall series championship podium, racers must have a minimum of three finishes, one of which must be crossing the finish line at the series finale in Bentonville. Visit ozkids.org for more information.
RULE OF THREE
May 17
$80-$300
Bentonville (Gravel)
A super-popular race featuring tarmac, gravel and singletrack. Race options
SCAN HERE TO SEE ALL UPCOMING EVENTS
include a 50-mile or a 110-mile route. Returning for a second year is a 200-mile self-supported endurance option kicking off the night before. New for 2025 is a juniors-only 15-mile mountain bike race across the street from the venue. Visit ruleofthree.bike for more information.
BIKE CITY FONDO
May 17
$40-$130
Fayetteville (Road)
A fondo with four road-route options from 13-105 miles. Gravel route options of 44 and 70 miles are also available. There are also three family-friendly routes available that take advantage of the Razorback Greenway: a 4-mile loop, a 5.4-mile ride and a 21-mile option. Visit bikecityfondo. com for more information.
DOUBLE BARREL GRAVEL RIDE
May 18
$15
Bentonville (Gravel)
Annual gravel ride starting and ending at
MONDAY NIGHT LIGHTS CRITERIUM
May 12, May 19, June 6, June 9, June 23, June 30
$20
Vilonia (Road)
A series of crit races at the Central Arkansas Karting Complex. The course is 0.7 of a mile with 14 turns. Cash prizes for the A-race are sponsored by Spokes. Podium prizes are from Trek Little Rock and prime prizes are from Trek, Arkansas Cycling and Fitness, Tifosi Optics, Hand-Up Gloves, Blue Sail Coffee, Lost 40 and more. Register at bikereg.com/ monday-night-lights-criterium.
OLD POST CHALLENGE
June 8
TBA
Russellville (Mountain)
Cross-country mountain bike race at Old Post Park. Part of the Arkansas Mountain Bike Championship Series. Visit ambcs.com for more information.
the Benton County Quail Barn. There are route options of 15, 31 and 71 miles. The 31- and 71-mile routes are unmarked. After the ride there’ll be skeet shooting, live music from Frisky Squirrels and a jambalaya and crawfish boil. Register at bikereg. com/double-barrel-gravel-ride.
BENTONVILLE BIKE FEST
May 23-25
$20-$100
Bentonville (Mountain/Road/Gravel)
A weekend jam-packed with cycling events, including an expo, gravel race, cross-country mountain bike races, enduro races, rhythm, balance, kids races, clinics, live music and more. Visit bentonvillebikefest.com for more.
THE SKIRMISH
May 29-June 1
$60-$120
Jonesboro (Gravel)
The inaugural edition of a gravel race
starting and finishing in downtown Jonesboro. Routes of 24-100 miles are available as well as a family-friendly slow roll. Shakeout rides will be offered Thursday and Friday as well as an expo, live music and more. Visit skirmishjonesboro.com for more information.
ARKANSAS GRAVELER
June 3-8
$250-$990
Mena (Gravel)
A super-supported gravel tour of some of Arkansas’s most beautiful gravel roads. This year’s event will tackle the Ouachitas with stops in Mena, Glenwood, Hot Springs, Morrilton and Heber Springs. Included for riders is: luggage transport daily, six breakfasts, three community dinners, daily post-ride beer and nonalcoholic beverages, mechanical support, medical support, SAG vehicles, aid stations, nightly entertainment and recreation opportunities, and more. Visit arkansasgraveler.com to learn more.
BENTONVILLE WOMEN’S GRAVEL CAMP
June 6-9
$1,800-$2,200
Bentonville (Gravel)
Hosted by off-road pros Crystal Anthony and Paige Onweller. Topics covered will include nutrition, recovery, race tactics, bike setup and equipment education. On-the-bike lessons will include cornering, pacelining, fueling, descending and underbiking. Register at bikereg.com/ bentonville-gravel-camp
MAJOR TAYLOR 111 AT THE PORT
June 7
$45
Little Rock (Road)
Road ride created in partnership of the Major Taylor Cycling Club of Little Rock and Recycle Bikes for Kids. Distance options of 24, 52, 62 and 111 miles. Rides start and end at the Little Rock Port Authority. The long route will run through Wrightsville, Redfield, Pine Bluff, England, Keo and Scott. The ride will benefit underserved communities. Visit bikereg.com/ major-taylor-111-at-the-port to register.
HAZEL VALLEY RALLY
June 14
$60
Fayetteville (Gravel)
Long-running gravel event starting and finishing from the Hazel Valley Ranch with unmarked route options of 45 and 64 miles of Ozark National Forest roads. Camping is available at the ranch April 4-5. Visit ruleofthree.bike for more information.
NW ARKANSAS
BIKE CAMPING TRIP
WITH ALL BODIES ON BIKES AND ALL BIKES WELCOME
June 14-15
$10
Fayetteville (Gravel)
Join All Bodies on Bike and All Bikes
Welcome for an overnight camping trip. The round trip will be 50.2 miles on a mix of rural paved roads, gravel and forest service roads. Register at bikereg.com/ nw-arkansas-bike-camping-trip-with-allbodies-on-bikes-all-bikes-welcome.
BATTLE FOR TOWNSEND’S RIDGE
June 15
$25-$40
Rogers (Mountain)
Cross-country mountain bike race at
KAI CADDY
Hobbs State Park. Part of the Arkansas Mountain Bike Championship Series. Kids race free. Visit ambcs.com for more information.
NWA SPRING CLASSIC ROAD RACE
June 15
$35-$60 Prairie Grove (Road)
USA Cycling-sanctioned, one-day road race with proceeds benefiting Pedal It Forward NWA. Juniors 11-14 will race a 13-mile course. All other categories will race a 24mile course, with Juniors 15-18, Novice Men and Women, Masters Women and Category 4 Women doing one lap; Masters Men, Category 4 Men and Category 1/2/3 Women doing two laps and Category 1/2/3 Men doing three laps. Visit nwaspringclassic.com for more information.
NATURAL STATE CRITERIUM SERIES
June 18
$20-$25 Springdale (Road)
One of the richest weeknight criterium race series in the country in downtown Springdale. Registration is open at bikereg.com/natural-state-criterium-series-springdale
OZ KIDS CRIT CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
June 21
$15 Fayetteville (Road)
One of five kids races in a series throughout Northwest Arkansas. Each race is scored; scores accumulate throughout the series with an overall podium celebrated at the final race in October. To qualify for the overall series championship podium, racers must have a minimum of three finishes, one of which must be crossing the finish line at the series finale in Bentonville. Visit ozkids.org for more information.
TEAM ARKANSAS TO CURE T1D POKER RIDE
June 21
$40 Little Rock (Road)
Poker ride along the Arkansas River Trail. There will be five checkpoints along the route for riders to collect playing cards. The best poker hand wins. Prizes include a sailing excursion, a Hot Springs getaway and custom bike kits. Register at bikereg. com/team-arkansas-to-cure-t1d-pokerride-2025.
OZARK ENDURO LITE
July 13
$10-$50
Bella Vista (Mountain)
Beginner-friendly enduro race series. Race will consist of 4-6 timed segments. All rider abilities are welcome, but the goal of the series is to introduce enduro racing to riders. Register at bikereg.com/ozark-endurolite-race-1-bellavista.
RIVER VALLEY RUMBLE
June 22
TBA
Fort Smith (Mountain)
Cross-country mountain bike race at Ben Geren State Park. Part of the Arkansas Mountain Bike Championship Series. Visit ambcs.com for more information.
THE TRUE GRIT RIDE
June 28
$35-$55
Fort Smith (Road)
An annual charity ride raising money to provide meals for at-risk children. Ride features road route options of 30, 40 and 62 miles. More information available at truegritride.com
ARKANSAS STATE ROAD CHAMPIONSHIPS
July 11-13
$15-$50
Conway (Road)
A weekend of road racing for State Championship jerseys. The state time trial cham-
pionship will take place Friday with distances of 10, 20 and 30 kilometers based on age and experience level. The road race is Saturday, with race distances of 19, 38, 57 and 76 miles. And the state criterium championship will be Sunday with race times of 20, 25, 40 and 60 minutes. Register at bikereg.com/arkansas-state-omnium-championship
WAMPOO ROADEO
July 19
$25
Keo (Road)
Long-running charity ride raising money for infrastructure improvements along the Arkansas River Trail and Recycle Bikes for Kids. Five flat, fast-course options are available ranging from 20-75 miles. Register at bikereg.com/wampoo-roadeo
OZARK
July 27
ENDURO LITE
$10-$50
Fayetteville (Mountain)
Beginner-friendly enduro race series. Race will consist of 4-6 timed segments. All
rider abilities are welcome, but the goal of the series is to introduce enduro racing to riders. Register at bikereg.com/ozark-enduro-lite-race-2-centennial-park-fayetteville
OZ KIDS CRIT CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
Aug. 9
$15
Gravette (Road)
One of five kids races in a series throughout Northwest Arkansas. Each race is scored; scores accumulate throughout the series with an overall podium celebrated at the final race in October.To qualify for the overall series championship podium, racers must have a minimum of three finishes, one of which must be crossing the finish line at the series finale in Bentonville. Visit ozkids.org for more information.
OZARK ENDURO LITE
Aug. 10
$10-$50
Bentonville (Mountain)
Beginner-friendly enduro race series. Race will consist of 4-6 timed segments. All rider abilities are welcome, but the goal of the series is to introduce enduro racing to riders. Register at bikereg.com/ozark-endurolite-race-3-coler-bentonville-ar
NICA RACE CLINIC AND TIME TRIAL
Aug. 23-24
Mountain Home (Mountain)
The Arkansas NICA season kicks off with a race clinic Saturday and then the annual time trial Sunday to determine call-up positions for first races of the season. Visit arkansasmtb.org for more information.
FAYETTEVILLE ENDURO
Aug. 30-31
$30-$125
Fayetteville (Mountain)
First race of the Arkansas Enduro Series. Up to eight stages of enduro racing at Fayetteville’s Kessler Mountain Regional Park. Pre-ride is available Saturday with racing on Sunday. Visit arkansasenduroseries.com for more information.
SCAN FOR MORE BIKE EVENTS
PLEASE BE AWARE, IT’S ARKANSAS STATE LAW:
USE OF BICYCLES OR ANIMALS
Every person riding a bicycle or an animal, or driving any animal drawing a vehicle upon a highway, shall have all the rights and all of the duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle, except those provisions of this act which by their nature can have no applicability.
OVERTAKING A BICYCLE
The driver of a motor vehicle overtaking a bicycle proceeding in the same direction on a roadway shall exercise due care and pass to the left at a safe distance of not less than three feet (3’) and shall not again drive to the right side of the roadway until safely clear of the overtaken bicycle.
Beginning in 2019 with the “Idaho Stop” law, cyclists may treat stop signs as yield signs and red lights as stop signs.
AND CYCLISTS, PLEASE REMEMBER:
Your bike is a vehicle on the road just like any other vehicle and you must also obey traffic laws as applicable — use turning and slowing hand signals, ride on right and yield to traffic as if driving. Be sure to establish eye contact with drivers. Remain visible and predictable at all times.
