Bike the Trail ready to spin on Sunday
Online registrations have opened for the popular Bike the Trail event in the Hutt Valley on Sunday, March 5.
And, for those that do register, they are in with a chance to win a new bike.
A free event, Bike the Trail is a family friendly ride on the Hutt River Trail. It starts in Upper Hutt, at Harcourt Park and follows downstream to the river mouth at Petone.
More than 1200 riders of ages and abilities are expected to turn out for the annual event which is always popular for families because the route is flat and offroad.
This year people can choose to do the full trail ride (25km) from Harcourt Park or a shorter ride, about half the distance, from Stokes Valley.
Bike the Trail is not a race and is not timed. Start times at Harcourt Park will be staggered to reduce any waiting with the more serious ‘‘rapid riders’’’ heading off at 9.50 am.
Those wanting to take their time will head off 20 minutes later while riders planning a picnic along the way, or with young, children, will pedal away at 10.30am. At Stokes Valley all riders will start at 10am.
Riders arriving at Hikoikoi Reserve, at the end of their journey, will be met with live entertainment, games and activities and a gold coin barbecue.
Free return transport to Stokes Valley and Upper Hutt will run for two hours from 1pm while specialised bike transport service is available for a gold coin donation.
While people can register on the day they are encouraged to pre-register.
By doing so they will will also go into the draw to win a Malvern Star Cruisestar, and donated by Green Jersey Cycle Tours.
There are also bikes for hire which can be reserved with registration. They can also be hired on the day but are limited in numbers.
Bike the Trail, Sunday March 5. Starts at Harcourt Park , from 9.50am, Upper Hutt or Eastern Hutt Road, Stokes Valley, 10am. Register at: bikethetrail.co.nz