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BIKE MS FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How long is the ride?

The Bike MS: Express Scripts Gateway Getaway Ride is a two day event, with four different route options offered each day.  You can choose to ride 20, 40, 75 or 100 miles each day.  Many people ride a longer route on Saturday and a shorter one on Sunday – but you do not have to decide which route you want to ride until the start.

Where do the routes go?

All routes, both days, start and end at the Central Missouri Events Center (formerly known as the Boone County Fairgrounds). The routes are on rural roads and take you through a lot of small towns in Central Missouri.  The longer routes will take you through the Amish area, with a rest stop at an Amish farm.

Do I need a particular kind of bike?

Any kind of bike is fine.  On the longer routes, we tend to see a lot more road bikes, but plenty of people ride mountain bikes or hybrids, especially on the shorter routes.  If you need to upgrade your equipment, or need a tuneup before Bike MS, please visit one of our partner bike shops. No motors allowed!

How much money do I have to raise?

You have to raise a minimum of $250.  The average cyclist raised a lot more last year, around $775.  We offer fundraising prizes starting at $500, and fundraising clubs starting at $1,000.

How will I raise the money?

When you sign up, you’ll get access to our online tools, which make the fundraising pretty easy.  Check out our Fundraising Ideas page for other ways to raise money.  If you have any trouble, our development team is here to help.

Where should I stay in Columbia?

Hotel rooms are available, and you can also camp in a tent or RV at Bike MS for a small fee.

Are kids allowed on the ride?

No.  You have to be 12 years old to ride.  That means no kids under 12 on the route riding bikes, in bike seats or trailers, or riding tag-alongs or tandems.

Do I need to have a team?

No, but it’s fun if you do!  If you want to join a team, call our office 314-781-9020 and we’ll hook you up.  If you’d rather ride on your own, that’s fine too.

What time should I get there?

A lot of people from out of town come in to Columbia on Friday afternoon or evening.  The fairgrounds open at 4pm on Friday.  On Saturday, if you’re not staying at the fairgrounds, you’ll want to get there pretty early. Breakfast starts at 6am, and the top team start is at 7am. The start line will be open for the 40, 75, and 100 mile routes from 7:30am until 8:45am, and the start will be open for the 20 mile route from 9am until 9:30am.

Sunday morning the start line will be open for the 40, 75, and 100 mile routes from 7:00am until 8:45am, and for the 20 mile route from 9am until 9:30am.

What meals are included?

Breakfast, lunch and dinner Saturday and Sunday are included. Breakfast and dinner will be served at the fairgrounds, and lunch will be served on the route for the longer routes and at the fairgrounds for the shorter route. Food will also be available for purchase at the fairgrounds throughout the weekend, starting Friday evening. Non-cyclists will be able to purchase a wristband for meals on-site.

What if I am unable to ride?

Bike MS registration fees are non-refundable and non-transferable. However if you do not ride (if your packet is not picked up), the fundraising minimum is not required – but is appreciated.

Where does the money go?

The money you raise will help fund medical research to find a cure for MS, and it will help people living here in our community in Missouri and Illinois move forward in their lives.  Visit our Gateway Area Chapter website for more information about how the National MS Society helps people!

Have more questions?  Send us an email at gatewayinfo@nmss.org or ask us on Facebook.

Thank you to our premier national sponsors

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