It’s not always easy to stay motivated to ride through the winter, but our bodies crave the activity so it’s worth the extra effort to get out there on your bike around the holiday season. Riding in a group or finding an event to attend is the easiest way to get out the door and on your steed, so we’ve put together a selection of our favorite winter events.
Deschutes Brewery Cup | December 7-8 – Bend
Whether you’re there to race or join the throngs of cheering fans, you’re sure to have a good time at this lively race.
Christmas Ships Ride | December 6 – Portland
Every year, Portlanders dress their ships in festive lights and parade along the Willamette and Columbia Rivers for a spectacular nighttime display. A double fleet of ships will be sailing on the 6th and the ride will watch from the North Portland Harbor for an up-close view.
Holiday Bike Book Sale | December 10 – Portland
There is a burgeoning scene of bike-based authors emerging in Portland and they’ll be hanging out at the Waypost cafe and bar to talk about their books.
Santiam Spokes | Several rides a week – Corvallis Area
This Mid-Willamette Valley bike club stays active through the winter so if you’re looking for some riding company, you’ve got a variety of rides to choose from.
Women’s Cycling Group | Saturdays – Eugene
This self-described slower and funkier bunch is a group of easy going women who love to ride bikes. If you’re looking for a hammerhead race, you won’t find it here, but if you’re looking for some wintertime camaraderie, the Women’s Cycling Group is perfect.
Bike the Lights Night | December 9 – Portland
Every year Bike Gallery hosts a bikes-only night at Portland International Raceways holiday lights display as a fundraiser for the Bicycle Transportation Alliance. This event is family friendly. We have not yet heard about a group ride to PIR, but often one occurs so keep checking.