WHAT’S IN A NAME: ROOKIE RIDER

ROOKIE RIDER = A CYCLIST PARTICIPATING IN BIKE MS: WAVES TO WINE RIDE FOR THE FIRST TIME.

But I’ve been cycling for years, am I a Rookie Rider? Yes!

Whether you’re a veteran cyclist or you’re new to the sport, you are new to the Bike MS: Waves to Wine Ride and we want to ensure your first experience is the best it can be. This page is dedicated to making this happen.

Check out the resources and links below that help you connect with fellow cyclists, provide more information on Bike MS: Waves to Wine Ride, and help you prepare for the weekend.

If you have any questions or needs, please do not hesitate to contact Liz Bernstein for more information.

ACCOMMODATIONS
Cyclists have the option of camping or staying in a local hotel:

• Camping  - camping is free and on site. Log in to your participant center to make your camping reservation.
• Visit our list of 2015 Partner Hotels. These are the only hotels that we will run shuttles to on Saturday and Sunday. Make your reservation soon as rooms are going quickly.

LUGGAGE
If you start in San Francisco, drop off your luggage upon your arrival and luggage trucks will transport your belongings to Sonoma County where you can pick it up Saturday afternoon. If you are taking the shuttle back to San Francisco on Sunday, make sure to load your luggage on the shuttle before boarding.

WEEKEND TRANSPORTATION

• If you are staying in a hotel Saturday night: All shuttles to our local partnering hotels are FREE on Saturday afternoon and Sunday morning. Hotel shuttles will run on Saturday from 2:00 - 8:00 p.m. and Sunday from 5:15 - 7:30 a.m.
• Getting back to San Francisco on Sunday: After finishing Bike MS: Waves to Wine Ride on Sunday, September 27, if you intend to take our shuttles back to San Francisco, you must purchase a ticket for $20. Please log in to your account to purchase your ticket. Shuttle tickets are non-refundable.

RIDER PACKET
Your packet is required to participate in the ride. It includes your bib numbers that must be displayed on your bicycle, helmet and person. It also includes a wristband that is good for all of your meals, luggage tags, and entry into the beer and wine garden.

We will be mailing rider packets on September 4. To receive your rider packet in the mail, we must have received your required minimum $350 donation by August 31. If you do not meet the August 31 deadline, we will have them the week of the event.

FUNDRAISING
Don’t let the $350 fundraising minimum (in addition to the registration fee) intimidate you. It’s not hard to get there, and we’re here to help you along the way. Once you start telling people why you are riding and where their money goes, you will be surprised at how giving they can be. Set a goal and let our fundraising resources help you get there.

ON-COURSE RIDER SERVICES
Bike MS: Waves to Wine Ride is fully supported. There will be rest stops every 10 to 15 miles each day and vehicles equipped with first aid and mechanical support will be on the route at all times. If you need assistance, let a volunteer know and they will find someone to help you.

JOIN A TEAM
Being part of a team for Bike MS: Waves to Wine Ride is a great way to build camaraderie with people who share your interest in cycling and a desire to create a world free of MS. Plus, it makes the weekend of the ride even more fun! Click here to choose a local team or start your own team.

TRAINING
Click here for tips on stretching, exercise, nutrition, hydration and more. As a Waves to Wine cyclist, you’ll also receive a free subscription to TrainingPeaks, the official coaching software of Bike MS. Click here to set up your account.

FACEBOOK
The Bike MS: Waves to Wine Ride Facebook page allows you to virtually network with other cyclists, providing instant access to discuss questions about the route, fundraising, training, ride preparation and more. Plus, receive important updates and reminders throughout the season.

ADDITIONAL TIPS
Here's what you need to know to have fun and stay safe on your first Bike MS: Waves to Wine Ride.

• Train in a group (learn how to ride in a crowd)
• Don't wait to begin fundraising
• Start training now and ride regularly
• Set realistic goals and keep track of your mileage
• Stay hydrated by drinking before you become thirsty
• Wear padded shorts and gloves

BIKE MS: WAVES TO WINE RIDE STAFF
Our staff is here to answer any questions you may have. Feel free to contact us.