Happy New Year!

 Happy New Year! May the New Year bring you the best in cycling adventures wherever you may ride!

Once More Around the Pond

 We had a nice crisp, Fall day for our not so Wicked Wayne ride last Saturday - much nicer weather than the previous weekend.  This was followed by some superb Fall days earlier this week which were a tantalizing prospect for further late season riding.  This weekend also looks nice, if a bit cooler, so we will meet Saturday at the Belgrade Community Center for a circuit around Great Pond, perhaps with a stop at Hello Good Pie in Belgrade Village.  Hope you can join us!

November 13th, Saturday:  BELGRADE LAKES

"Great Pond Go Round" - a November tour through Castle Island, Belgrade, and Rome.

START:  10:00 A.M., at the Belgrade Community Center on Rt. 27, a half mile south of the Village of Belgrade Lakes, on the right (northbound) just past the Great Pond Marina.  Park in the community center parking lot nearest the street (just as you turn in).

DISTANCE:  23 miles.

TERRAIN:  rolling to hilly.

HIGHLIGHTS: views of the Belgrade Lakes, some roller coaster hills, Castle Island, and Blueberry Hill - possible post-ride stop at the bakery in Belgrade Lakes Village.

LEADER:  David Chiappetta, dlchiappetta@aol.com.

LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37985825
 

For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club, contact Jim at 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com, find us on Facebook, or check out our blog at http://postedroads.blogspot.com.  

Water Destroys Wickedness

 Last weekend was pretty much a wash-out, even though the sun made a brief appearance right at 10 am, Sunday's scheduled ride start in Wayne.  This weekend looks much better (so far) so let's try it again.  We'll shoot for Saturday at 10 am, with a rain date for Sunday (you can still come in costume if you like).  Hope to see you Saturday!

Saturday, November 6 - WAYNE

"Not So Wicked Wayne" - a post-Halloween ride featuring some historic cemeteries along some quiet back roads (maybe not quiet enough). 

START: 10:00 AM at the Wayne Elementary School, 48 Pond Road, Wayne.

DISTANCE: about 22 miles.

TERRAIN: moderate, maybe creepy in spots (no promises).

HIGHLIGHTS: at least five local cemeteries, including the circular Wing family cemetery and the Kent family cemetery; the Apple Shed on Kents Hill, a notorious, unsolved historic crime scene, and other local haunts. 

LEADER: Jim Merrick, hjmerrick@gmail.com, 293-3784.

LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37867944

For more information about the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club contact Jim Merrick at hjmerrick@gmail.com, 293-3784, or check out the club blog at http://postedroads.blogspot.com.    

All Hallows on Falloes

 

We had a rather cold, gray, overcast day for our ride from Farmington to Industry on Saturday, but the roads were dry and the winds were calm, and the 8 brave souls who turned out had a fine ride. We are hopeful that the monsoons this week will clear out in time for our annual Halloween/Cemetery ride in Wayne on Sunday - please note the 10:00 am start. As in past years, costumes are optional - just remember to include helmets and clothing appropriate for the weather, and bring a mask if you are stopping in stores.  Hope to see you on our last scheduled ride of the year, and perhaps into November if the weather holds out!

Sunday, October 31st - WAYNE

"Wicked Wayne" - a Halloween ride featuring some historic cemeteries along some quiet back roads (maybe too quiet). 

START: 10:00 AM at the Wayne Elementary School, 48 Pond Road, Wayne.

DISTANCE: about 22 miles.

TERRAIN: moderate, creepy in spots.

HIGHLIGHTS: at least five local cemeteries, including the circular Wing family cemetery and the Kent family cemetery; the Apple Shed on Kents Hill, a notorious, unsolved historic crime scene, and other local haunts. 

LEADER: Jim Merrick, hjmerrick@gmail.com, 293-3784.

LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37867944

For more information about the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club contact Jim Merrick at hjmerrick@gmail.com, 293-3784, or check out the club blog at http://postedroads.blogspot.com

Industry still has Clearwater

 It was a bit damp for the start of Sunday's KVBC ride in Waterville.  We had a brief shower as we headed out, but it stopped about ten minutes later and we did see quite a bit of sunshine.  Our thanks to David for leading and to the lucky 13 riders who turned out.  This Saturday we will meet at Hannaford's in Farmington for a ride out to Industry and Clearwater Pond.  We will add an optional route along the Whistle Stop Rail Trail, and we may check out the new trail in Farmington.  Hope you can join us!

Saturday, October 23:  FARMINGTON

"The Ups and Downs of Industry":  a ride through the picturesque hills and hollows of Farmington, New Sharon, and Industry.

START:  9:00 A.M., at the Hannaford Plaza on Rt. 4 in Farmington, about a mile south from the junction of Rt. 4 and Rt. 27, towards Wilton.  Park near the entrance to the shopping plaza.

DISTANCE:  25-30 miles.

TERRAIN:  rolling to hilly; approx. one mile of gravel along the Sandy River, and 3 miles of cinder on the Rail Trail (optional)

HIGHLIGHTS:  quiet back roads along the Sandy River, spectacular panoramic views from the ridgetops of New Sharon & Industry, Clearwater Pond at Allens Mills, a possible stop at Java Joe's in Farmington, and an optional run along the Whistlestop Rail Trail.

LEADER:  Jim Merrick, 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com.

LINK to ROUTE MAP: http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6874732

 

For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club and its rides contact Jim Merrick, 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com, or check out the KVBC blog, "Posted Roads" at http://postedroads.blogspot.com.

Sorting out the Sortie

 We had beautiful Fall weather and colorful foliage on our ride from Wayne last Saturday. There were roads with nice new pavement and roads with nice smooth gravel. Many thanks to Fritz for leading and to Susan and Holly for riding sweep and keeping the 19 riders (mostly) on track. This Sunday we will venture north from Waterville to Canaan for what promises to be a nice foliage tour through Somerset County. Keep masks on hand should you need to use them, and dress yourself and your bike to stand out to motorists who may be distracted by the seasonal colors. Hope you can join us!

Sunday, October 17 - WATERVILLE

"A Somerset Sortie" - a scenic tour through Somerset County in peak Fall season.

START: 9:00am at the Alfond Youth & Community Center, 126 North Street, Waterville.

DISTANCE: 33 miles.

TERRAIN: moderate with some hills.

HIGHLIGHTS: country roads along the Kennebec and inland from Canaan to Benton, with some fine ridge-top views.

LEADER: David Chiappetta, dlchiappetta@aol.com.

LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37739372

Way out of Wayne

 

Our thanks to Brian and Denise, our ride leaders on the Wire Bridge Ride that was rescheduled to last Sunday. I personally regretted missing their ride and the Cadillac Challenge, but I've been telling everyone for the last year and a half to stay home if they are feeling sick, so I thought I had better practice what I preach, so to speak.  I am definitely ready to ride this weekend (I hope) and I hope to see everyone there!

Saturday, October 9th - WAYNE

"Which Way to Wayne?" - an early Fall tour from Wayne to Fayette, Livermore, Leeds, and Winthrop.

START: 9 am at the Wayne Elementary School, 48 Pond Road, Wayne. 

DISTANCE: 37 miles.

TERRAIN: flat to moderately hilly; with perhaps an optional route with some gravel riding.

HIGHLIGHTS: scenic back roads with some great views. 

LEADER: Fritz Onion, fritzonion@gmail.com

LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://www.strava.com/routes/4011324

For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club, contact Jim Merrick at 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com, or check out our club blog, "Posted Roads" at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or keep up to date via our Facebook page.

October Rides

Autumn is here! Here are the KVBC Rides for October!

UPDATE: Saturday's Ride Still On - Sunday's Ride Postponed One Week

 Ride Updates: this Saturday's ride from Livermore Falls to Boothby's Apple Orchard is still on - 10:00 am start at the Mallard Mart at the junction of Rt.s 106 and 133.  Sunday's ride from Norridgewock & Madison to the Wire Bridge has been postponed a week to Sunday, Oct. 3.  Hope to see you tomorrow, and a week from Sunday!

Wire That Bridge, Grill Up Those Hotdogs

Sunday's KVBC ride (part 2 of our weekend doubleheader) will be a revision of our popular Fall ride out to the historic Wire Bridge in New Portland. The Long Ride (62 mi.) will start in Norridgewock at 9 am, and connect up with the Short Ride (37 mi.) starting in Madison at 9:30 am. We will have ride leaders at both starting locations. At the end of the ride we will pay homage to the traditions of Ken's Hot Dog Ride with a post-ride get together. Hope you can join us!

Sunday, September 26 - NORRIDGEWOCK and MADISON

"The Wire Bridge Ride" - a Fall Foliage tour along the scenic Carrabassett River, through Norridgewock, Madison, Anson, New Portland and New Vineyard.

START: Long Ride - 9:00 AM at 434 Frederick's Corner Road in Norridgewock; Short Ride - 9:30 AM at the parking lot across from the former Madison Mill on Main St. in Madison, just before the bridge over the Kennebec.

DISTANCE: Long Ride - approx 62 miles; Short Ride - approx. 37 miles.

TERRAIN: moderate with some hills

HIGHLIGHTS: Fall foliage along the Carrabassett River, and the historic Wire Bridge in New Portland, a civil engineering landmark built in 1866, perhaps the only one of its kind still in existence; and a post-ride gathering with hotdogs at the ride leaders' house!

LEADERS: Brian Bowker, 485-6793, bbowk321@yahoo.com; and Denise Crowell, 213-8336, denisemcrowell@gmail.com.

Link to long route (62 miles) starting at 434 Fredericks Corner Road in Norridgewock https://www.mappedometer.com/?maproute=888453

Link to short route (37 miles) starting from parking lot across the street from the former Madison Paper Mill, Madison

http://www.mappedometer.com/?maproute=837129

For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club contact Jim Merrick at 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com, and check out the KVBC blog at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or the KVBC Facebook page.

An Apple a Day

We had a mostly overcast day with Fall-like temperatures for the ride in Augusta on Sunday. The ride saw a fine turnout, great scenery, and some sections of fresh new pavement. Many thanks to Duncan for leading and for all who turned out. This weekend we will feature two popular rides: the first will be on Saturday in Livermore and will stop at Boothby's Apple Orchard.  Please note the 10:00 am start. Sunday we will ride to the Wire Bridge in New Portland from both Norridgewock and Madison (details forthcoming). Please remember to bring masks and be prepared to use them when stopping at stores, maintain social distancing, and please stay home if you are feeling sick. Hope you can join us!

Saturday, September 25 - LIVERMORE FALLS

"Boothby's Apple Ride" - a tour of the ponds and ridges around Livermore and Chesterville, with an apple orchard stop.

START: 10:00 am at the store formerly known as Pike's Corner Oasis (now Mallard Mart) at the junction of Rt.s 106, 133, and Campground Road in Livermore.

DISTANCE: 40 miles.

TERRAIN: moderately hilly with several good hills.

HIGHLIGHTS: great back roads with numerous scenic views, and a stop at Boothby's Orchard, a family-owned farm for seven generations going back to 1865. Plans are to have a vehicle at the orchard to transport any apples you buy back to the start.

LEADER: John Lanoue, john.lanoue@avid.com.  

LINK to ROUTE MAP (2016): https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6799282

For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club contact Jim Merrick at 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com, and check out the KVBC blog at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or the KVBC Facebook page.

Oh Capital

The KVBC gravel ride on Sunday went really well.  Despite the rains of late, the roads were not too muddy, although slippery enough to cause a few minor mishaps.  Everyone returned, mostly intact, and mostly mud free.  Thanks to all who turned out!  This Saturday we will return to pavement for our "Capital Ride" in Augusta, our last ride of the summer.  Fall officially begins on Sept. 22, and we have lots of great riding ahead.  Hope to see you Saturday!

Saturday, September 18th - AUGUSTA

"A Capital Ride" - a tour through the stately residential areas and outlying farms of our capital city.

START: 9:00 AM at the parking lot of Cony High School, 60 Pierce Street off of Rt. 105, Augusta

DISTANCE: approx. 30 miles.

TERRAIN: moderate with a few good hills.

HIGHLIGHTS: Some really fine touring roads east of the capital.

LEADER: Duncan Tate, datateme@gmail.com
LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7524009

 

For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club, contact Jim Merrick at 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com, follow us on Facebook or check out the KVBC blog at http://postedroads.blogspot.com.

Gravel On

 We had another fine ride from Damariscotta to Pemaquid on Sunday. It was overcast and cool until the very end of the ride, but the views of surf pounding on the shoreline rocks and the quiet roads along the Pemaquid peninsula were delightful. This Sunday we will venture off-pavement for a (mostly) gravel ride from New Sharon exploring the back roads of Vienna and Chesterville.  The route can be done on 28mm tires, but be sure to bring bikes with good rubber, and given the recent rains, be prepared to negotiate some mud.  Even though we will be off in the woods away from civilization, please remember to bring masks, maintain pandemic distancing, and stay home if you are feeling sick.  Hope to see you Sunday!

Sunday, September 12 - NEW SHARON

"Sandy River Gravitas" - a mostly gravel ride on back roads around New Sharon, Vienna, and Chesterville.

START: 9:00 am at the New Sharon Town Office on School St. near the junction of Rt. 2 and Rt.134 in New Sharon. Park in the gravel area behind the town office (not in front of the fire station).

DISTANCE: 20 miles, approx. 12.5 gravel and 7.5 pavement.

TERRAIN: varied with some moderate climbs and fast descents.

HIGHLIGHTS: a sampling of local gravel roads, ranging from delightful to decrepit, and lots of pre-Fall foliage up close. Paved alternatives abound to avoid some of the gravel.

LEADER: Jim Merrick, 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com.

LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/36359083

You Otta Ride Damariscotta

 We had another excellent ride out of Oakland last Sunday. It was cloudy and a lot cooler but the rains held off, and we only saw some drizzle at the very end of the ride. Many thanks to Tammy for leading the ride and making some special treats for the lucky ones who turned out.  Next Sunday we will venture down to the coast for our annual ride from Damariscotta to Pemaquid - please note the 10:00 am start.  Remember to bring a mask if you should need to stop in any stores (and don't forget helmets either).  Hope you can join us, and if not, have a great holiday weekend!.

Sunday, September 5th; DAMARISCOTTA

"Drafting Through Damariscotta" - a tour through Bristol, Bremen, Pemaquid and Damariscotta.

START:  10:00 AM at Hannaford's supermarket, 469 Main Street (Business Rt. 1) in Damariscotta.

DISTANCE:  approx. 39 miles.

TERRAIN:  Moderate to rolling with no major hills.

HIGHLIGHTS: scenic roads within the Pemaquid Peninsula, fresh and salt water views abound.

LEADER:  David Lipman, dlipman@lkblawmaine.com

LINK TO RIDE MAP:  https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37338970

September Rides

 Here is the KVBC Ride Calendar for September! Get ready for Fall!

Roll Out Around Those Barrels

 We had a fine ride last Saturday in Smithfield, despite it being a bit humid and overcast.  It was quite a bit wetter for Sunday's ride in Lincolnville, but we still had a number of intrepid riders turn out and we got both rides in despite the threatening weather.  Many thanks to Larry and David for leading, and to all the folks (including some newcomers) who joined us.  This Sunday we hope to return to dry, sunny conditions for our ride in Oakland.  Remember to stay well apart and bring a mask, especially when stopping in stores.  Hope you can join us!

Sunday, August 29 - OAKLAND

"Barreling through Oakland" - a tour around Oakland, Norridgewock, New Sharon, and Smithfield.

START: 9:00 am at the Oakland Post Office at the corner of Oakland Road and East School Street.

DISTANCE: about 38.5 miles.

TERRAIN: moderate with some hills.

HIGHLIGHTS: fine back roads with lakeside views and barrels of fun.

LEADER: Tammy Jones, tjjones@colby.edu.

LINK to ROUTE MAP : https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37266362

Lincolnville on Sunday, Smithfield on Saturday

Here are the details for the second ride of this weekend's double header.  Saturday we will meet in Smithfield at 9 am at the Tri-Pond Variety on Rt.s 8, 137 and 225.  Sunday we will meet in Lincolnville at 9:30 am (Note later start) at the Lincolnville Central School on Rt. 235.  Both of these rides have fine roads and outstanding scenery, and we hope you can join us on one or both!  Please note that, at the time of this writing, both Somerset and Waldo Counties have high levels of Covid-19 community transmission, and masks are recommended in all indoor settings, so it would be wise to bring a mask in case you need to go in a store.  Stay Well!

Sunday, August 22 - LINCOLNVILLE

"Moping Around Moody Mountain" - a tour around Lincolnville, Slab City, Belmont, Moody Mountain, Youngtown, and Camden.

START: 9:30 am at the Lincolnville Central School at 523 Hope Road, Rt. 235.

DISTANCE: 31 miles.

TERRAIN: rolling with some hills in Camden

HIGHLIGHTS: some great back roads we don't often get to ride on as a group, and a possible stop in Camden.

LEADER: David Chiappetta, dlchiappetta@aol.com.

LINK TO ROUTE MAP: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37170188

Smithfield on Saturday, Lincolnville on Sunday

We had another outstanding Tour de Whitefield on Saturday, thanks to Bryan and Holly, and to whomever made an offering to the weather gods. The torrential rains held off til about an hour or so after we finished, and the 25 of us had a fine ride.  This weekend we have a double header, with rides in Smithfield on Saturday, and in Lincolnville on Sunday (details on Sunday's ride to come shortly).  Hope you can join us on one or both days!

Saturday, August 21 - SMITHFIELD 

"Looping the Lakes" - a scenic tour through Smithfield, Belgrade, Rome, and Mercer.

START: 9:00 AM, at Tri-Pond Variety (formerly Sweet Dreams) on Rt. 8 in Smithfield, at the junction of Rt. 8 and Rt. 137. Please park in the back along the northwest side of the lot away from the redemption center and store entrance..

DISTANCES: approx. 10, 17 or 30 miles. 

TERRAIN: moderate to moderately hilly.

HIGHLIGHTS: many scenic lake views, summer camps, and a possible stop at the Ice Cream Place in Smithfield.

LEADER: Larry Childs, lrchilds@roadrunner.com

LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7295953

For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club, contact Jim Merrick at 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com, or check out our club blog, "Posted Roads" at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or keep up to date via our Facebook page.

Amishly Whitefield

 Saturday, August 14 - WHITEFIELD

"Tour de Whitefield" - a rural tour through the rolling hills and farms of Whitefield, Windsor, Somerville and Coopers Mills.

START: 9:00 am, at the Whitefield Elementary School, 164 Grand Army Road, Rt. 126

DISTANCE: about 34 miles.

TERRAIN: rolling hills.

HIGHLIGHTS: lots of scenic rural roads around the Sheepscot River Valley, possible sightings of local Amish families out at work, and a stop at the Sheepscot General Store.

LEADER: Bryan and Holly Griffin, bjgriffin@roadrunner.com, 207-332-1775 (cell).

LINK to ROUTE MAP (2020): https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37084569 or https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7605889

For more information about the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club, contact Jim Merrick at 293-3784 or hjmerrick@gmail.com, and check out the KVBC blog, Posted Roads, at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or follow our Facebook page.  

Whisked off to Wiscasset

Sunday, August 8th - RICHMOND

"Wheeling to Wiscasset" - a tour along the river through Richmond, Dresden, and Wiscasset.

START: 9 AM at the public landing in Richmond (also known as Fort Richmond Park) at 315 Front Street (Rt.24). Park in the public lot next to the landing.

DISTANCE: approx. 35-40 miles.

TERRAIN: moderate with one or two significant hills.

HIGHLIGHTS: scenic views along the river and Wiscasset, with a possible stop at Treats in Wiscasset.

LEADER:  David Lipman, dlipman@lkblawmaine.com.

LINK to RIDE MAP (2015): http://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6791013

 

 

We welcome suggestions for improving our rides and encourage active participation of all members.  For more information, contact Jim Merrick at hjmerrick@gmail.com or via the club blog, Posted Roads at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or check out the KVBC Facebook page. 

August Awaits

Here is the KVBC ride calendar for August!

Eleven Plus Two

Last Sunday's ride from Gardiner to Bowdoinham was postponed due to heavy rain, despite the ride leader's best efforts to arrange a delayed start and an alternate route, and venturing out to the start in a downpour to check to see if anyone showed up. Thanks to Joe for his efforts - we hope to reschedule the ride later in the season. This Saturday we will gather in West Mount Vernon at "The Chimney" (a free-standing brick chimney from an old tannery - a local landmark) for an expanded version of the old Eleven (now Thirteen) Ponds route. Hope you can join us as we close out the month of July! Saturday, July 31st - WEST MOUNT VERNON "Thirteen Ponds" - a tour past many of the hidden ponds and lakes in Mount Vernon, Fayette, Chesterville, and Vienna. START: 9:00 AM, at the boat landings on Echo Lake and Taylor Pond on Rt. 41 at the junction of Sandy River Road; the nearest street address is 1156 ME-41. There is a bridge and a dam and a free-standing brick chimney as landmarks. Park in either boat landing lot on opposite sides of the road. DISTANCE: 13.5 and 36.5 miles. TERRAIN: Flat to rolling with a few good hills (and one memorable one). HIGHLIGHTS: rural back roads winding through many small ponds and lakes, and across the top of the Chesterville Esker. LEADER: Jim Merrick, hjmerrick@gmail.com, 293-3784. LINK to RIDE MAP (Long): https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7600572 or https://ridewithgps.com/routes/36840577 LINK to RIDE MAP (Short): https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7601045 Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club rides are open to members and to the cycling public. Helmets are required of all riders at KVBC events. In case of severe weather, scheduled rides may be postponed or designated as "show & go" rides at the discretion of the ride leader. For ride updates and reports, check out the KVBC blog at http://postedroads.blogspot.com or follow us on Facebook.

Gardiner Ride DELAYED START at NOON

Due to the forecast of rain for tomorrow, we have shorted the planned route and are rescheduling for a delayed start at noon, hoping that we can get a ride in between showers. If it is pouring at noon the ride will be cancelled. Otherwise, see you tomorrow! Sunday, July 25th - GARDINER "Biking towards Bowdoinham" - a tour of the southern Kennebec Valley through Gardiner, Richmond and Litchfield. START: 12:00 PM, at the Laura Richards School, Rt. 201 in Gardiner, 1.5 miles south of the junction of Rt. 201 and Rt.s 126/9 (the junction near the A-1 Diner). The school is a modern brick building with a "spiked ball" sculpture, on the west side of Rt. 201, on the left past the Gardiner Armory (just as you enter the "thickly settled" area). Park in the lot on the north side of the school. DISTANCE: 27 miles. TERRAIN: Moderately hilly. HIGHLIGHTS: quiet back roads along streams and farmland south & west of Gardiner. LEADERS: Joe Renda, geologyjoe@gmail.com LINK to ROUTE MAP (2015): https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6800442

Back to Bowdoinham

It was cloudy and somewhat humid on the ride out of Liberty last Saturday, but the rains held off and we had a very nice ride over some unfamiliar roads with great scenery. Those of us who climbed up on Appleton Ridge got in some gravel riding as well. Many thanks to Paul, who was leading his first ride with the club, and to all who turned out. Next Sunday we will revisit one of our club favorites as we ride from Gardiner to Bowdoinham. If you haven't gotten your coronavirus vaccination yet please remember to wear a mask and observe distancing - with the new variants afoot we are not out of the woods yet. Hope to see you Sunday! Sunday, July 25th - GARDINER "Biking to Bowdoinham" - a tour of the southern Kennebec Valley through Gardiner, Richmond and Bowdoinham. START: 9:00 AM, at the Laura Richards School, Rt. 201 in Gardiner, 1.5 miles south of the junction of Rt. 201 and Rt.s 126/9 (the junction near the A-1 Diner). The school is a modern brick building with a "spiked ball" sculpture, on the west side of Rt. 201, on the left past the Gardiner Armory (just as you enter the "thickly settled" area). Park in the lot on the north side of the school. DISTANCE: 40 miles. TERRAIN: Moderately hilly. HIGHLIGHTS: quiet back roads along streams and farmland south & west of Gardiner. LEADERS: Joe Renda, geologyjoe@gmail.com LINK to ROUTE MAP (2015): http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6654861

Liberte, Egalite, Fraternite

We had fine weather and a fine ride last Sunday in Winslow over some very pretty back roads and a nice run along the River Road. We had a nice turnout of 21 riders, including some new faces, and 3 or 4 folks biked to the start. Many thanks to Tom for leading (and to Paul for switching ride dates)! Next Saturday we will venture further afield for a ride around Liberty and Palermo and vicinity; please note the 9:30 am start, and a new starting location. Hope you can join us! Saturday, July 17 - LIBERTY "Palermo, Beyond the Pale" - an adventurous ride through Liberty, Palermo, Appleton and Searsport. START: 9:30 am at the parking lot of Revision Energy on Rt. 3 in Liberty, about a half mile east of the junction of Rt.s 3 & 220 (about 1.5 miles past the entrance to Liberty State Park). Revision Energy is on the left, east-bound. DISTANCE: 31 or 34 miles. TERRAIN: rolling to hilly; the Appleton Ridge option is partially unpaved. HIGHLIGHTS: exceptional rural back roads and small hamlets, including the option of traversing Appleton Ridge with its spectacular vistas. LEADER: Paul Mitnik, pjmejm@gmail.com LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7599701 LINK to ROUTE MAP with Appleton Ridge Option: https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7599703

Win Some, Win Slow

We had a fine Fourth of July ride in Sidney on July 5th, taking advantage of the long weekend to bypass the cold, wet conditions on Sunday for sunshine, dry pavement, and warmer temperatures on Monday. Many thanks to Peggy for prompt rescheduling, welcomed by the 20 other riders who turned out (especially those of us who wouldn't have been able to make it otherwise). Thank you! Next Sunday we will head out from Winslow along the banks of the Kennebec. Hope you can join us! Sunday, July 11 - WINSLOW "Winsome Winslow" - a tour along the Kennebec through Winslow, Benton, Fairfield and Clinton START: 9 am at the Winslow Elementary School, 285 Benton Avenue, Winslow DISTANCE: 30.8 miles TERRAIN: Moderate with some hills HIGHLIGHTS: Back roads of Winslow, Benton, Fairfield, and Clinton with Kennebec River views. LEADER: Tom Michaud, sdnytom@yahoo.com LINK TO RIDE MAP: https://ridewithgps.com/trips/70587004 https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/65546974

Ride Forth

We had a record turnout of 31 riders at the start of the KVBC ride Sunday in Readfield, and we were joined by 2 or 3 others along the route. The ride itself followed a popular and pretty route that offered lots of shade on a hot sunny day. Many thanks to Lydia for leading and to everyone who turned out! Next Sunday we will revisit a classic Fourth of July route starting at the Bean School on Middle Road in Sidney. If we don't see you, have a safe and wonderful holiday weekend! Sunday, July 4th, SIDNEY: "Go Forth on the Fourth" - a mainstream tour through the middle of Sidney & the middle of a prime farming district & the middle of Fourth of July preparations. START: 9:00 AM at the James H. Bean Elementary School on Middle Road in Sidney. Directions to the Bean School: From south: I-95 North exit #120. Turn right at end of exit ramp onto Lyons Rd. Follow Lyons Rd. to stop sign. Turn left onto Middle Rd. Bean School is approximately one mile on the right. From the north: I-95 South exit #120. Turn left at end of exit ramp onto Lyons Rd. Follow Lyons Rd. to stop sign. Turn left onto Middle Rd. Bean School is approximately one mile on the right. DISTANCE: 16 or 30 Miles. TERRAIN: moderate with a few hills. HIGHLIGHTS: some fine back roads and Kennebec River views, and some Fourth of July paraphernalia, most likely. LEADER: Peggy Horner, phorner_1@yahoo.com LINK TO RIDE MAP: http://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6799304 For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club, contact Jim Merrick at hjmerrick@gmail.com, check out our blog, Posted Roads at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or follow us on Facebook.

July Rides

Here is the lineup of KVBC Rides in July! Some changes and some new routes in store. Please remember to get your vaccines up-to-date, and if not, please remember to bring masks and use them at ride starts and when in close contact with others (you are also free to wear a mask if you feel more comfortable doing so). Hope you can join us as we head into Summer!

Meandering Around Maranacook

We had a great turnout last Saturday under threatening skies, but the rains held off (for the most part) and we were rewarded with a splendid route and a super post-ride lunch, courtesy of our ride leaders, David & Laura - many, many thanks! This Sunday we will meet in Readfield for another popular ride around Winthrop, Wayne, Readfield and Kents Hill, as we close out the month of June. Summer is here and we hope you can join us! Sunday, June 27th - READFIELD "The Maranacook Meander" - a lakeside tour through Readfield, Winthrop, Wayne and Kents Hill START: 9:00 am at the Maranacook School Superintendent's Office parking lot, 45 Millard Harrison Drive, off of Rt. 17 about one quarter mile north of Readfield Depot. The Superintendent's Office is the first left on the drive up to the High School. DISTANCE: about 27 miles. TERRAIN: moderate to hilly. HIGHLIGHTS: many lakeside and hill top views; optional stop at the Apple Shed Bakery in Kents Hill.. LEADER: Lydia Leimbach, lydialeimbach@gmail.com LINK to ROUTE MAP (2017): http://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6864286 BCM Where to Ride Link: Maranacook Meander - A bike ride in Readfield, ME (ridewithgps.com) For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club, contact Jim Merrick at 293-3784 or hjmerrick@gmail.com, and check out the club's Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/KennebecValleyBicycleClub and the KVBC blog at http://postedroads.blogspot.com.

Velo and Lunch

We once again had gorgeous weather for our ride in Jefferson on Sunday. There were sections of new pavement, lakeside views and verdant landscapes on a newly revised route that was top notch. Add in an ice cream stop at the end and it was a day well spent! Many thanks to Bryan and Holly for leading, and to all the riders and newcomers who turned out. This Saturday we will return to Vassalboro for a ride around one of our club's favorite areas. Please note that there will be a post-ride luncheon at the ride leaders' so an RSVP (as detailed below) to let them get a head count would be much appreciated. Hope you can join us! Saturday, June 19 - VASSALBORO "Velo Vassalboro" - a scenic tour around the China Lake region START: 9am at the home of David and Laura Lipman. Condo is after Natanis Golf Course on ARROWHEAD DRIVE off of Webber Pond Road heading north. (Not to be confused with Fairway Drive. Use Barrows Road on your GPS and we are the next road on the left after that) Please park at the end of the road, beyond the garages in the large dirt parking lot after the condo buildings. DISTANCE: approx. 19 or 31 miles TERRAIN: Moderate to Hilly HIGHLIGHTS: Views of China Lake and Webber Pond, gentleman farms and country homes along the Neck Road. Stay afterwards for a light lunch and to socialize with fellow bikers. Please RVSP to laura.lipman@roadrunner.com so Laura can get an idea of how many will be staying for lunch. LEADER: David Lipman, dlipman@lipmankatz.com LINK TO RIDE MAP (2015): http://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6796302 For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club, contact Jim Merrick at 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com, or check out our club blog, "Posted Roads" at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or keep up to date via our Facebook page.

Bring Us Your Lupines

We are starting to see some high summer temperatures and summer is still 12 days away. We had another great turnout last Sunday in Norridgewock featuring scenic views, smooth pavement, some pretty descents, and a great post-ride gathering at the ride leaders'! Many thanks to Brian and Denise for another great club ride! Also, a shout-out to Laura and David Lipman for leading a successful Women's Ride with BCM in Augusta on Saturday - the ride was well-attended and well-appreciated! Next Sunday we will meet in jefferson for a ride around Damariscotta Lake. Will the summer heat bring out the fields of lupines around the lake? Come find out on Sunday - see you then! Sunday, June 13 - JEFFERSON "Lupine Damariscotta Lake" - a most colorful circumnavigation of Damariscotta Lake. START: 9:00 am at the Jefferson Village School, 48 Washington Road, Jefferson. DISTANCE: 27 miles. TERRAIN: moderate with some hills. HIGHLIGHTS: scenic back roads in full flower with a stop at the Damariscotta Mills Fish Ladder and the Bunker Hill Church overlook of the lake. LEADER: Bryan Griffin, bjgriffin@roadrunner.com. LINK to ROUTE MAP (2018): https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7254743 For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club, contact Jim Merrick at 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com, or check out our club blog, "Posted Roads" at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or keep up to date via our Facebook page.

Not for Naught

We had a fine turnout for last Sunday's ride around Lake Cobbossee despite the cool, cloudy, and threatening conditions. We did manage to avoid the rain, and got in a nice ride and even a nice ice cream stop at the end. This week we may see a return to summer temperatures, just in time for our ride Sunday in Norridgewock. Don't forget to bring a mask should you have to stop at a place that requires them, and stay home and get well if you are feeling sick. Hope to see you Sunday! Sunday, June 6 - NORRIDGEWOCK "Not for Naught, Norridgewock" - a tour through Norridgewock, Smithfield, and Mercer. START: 9:00 am at the ride leaders' house at 434 Fredericks Corner Road, about two miles from the junction of Rt.2 in Norridgewock. Please park on either side of the driveway. DISTANCE: about 32.5 miles. TERRAIN: rolling with a few hills. HIGHLIGHTS: scenic roads around North and East Ponds in Smithfield, and the not to be undone wiles of Norridgewock. LEADERS: Denise Crowell, denisemcrowell@gmail.com, and Brian Bowker, bbowk321@yahoo.com. LINK TO ROUTE MAP: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/36223920 For more information on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club contact Jim Merrick at 293-3784, hjmerrick@gmail.com, and check out the KVBC blog at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or the KVBC Facebook page.

June Rides

Here is the KVBC Ride Calendar for June! A reminder: the KVBC ride in Manchester is still on for tomorrow, Sunday, May 30, at 9:00 am. The KVBC-BCM joint Women's Ride in Augusta on June 5 is currently at capacity (there are still openings at many of the other rides around the state). Lots of great riding ahead - hope you can join us!

Odysseys around Cobbossee

We had a very pretty ride last Saturday from Chesterville along some scenic back roads, some good climbs and exhilarating downhills, and special post-ride and mid-ride stops thanks to our gracious hosts at the ride leader's house on Parker Pond. Many thanks to John and his crew who kept us moving to avoid being dined on ourselves by an armada of insects. This Sunday we will meet in Manchester near Fielders' Choice Ice Cream for one of our traditional rides around Lake Cobbosseecontee. This will be our first ride with the new Maine CDC guidelines in place, so fully vaccinated people (not partially vaccinated or unvaccinated) can carry on outdoors without masks. You will still need a mask to go indoors in many places, and it might be prudent to have a mask while waiting in line for ice cream, so use your best judgement. Hope to see you Sunday, and if not, have a great Memorial Day! Sunday, May 30th - MANCHESTER "A Cobbossee Odyssey": a tour around Cobbosseecontee Lake. START: 9:00 A.M., at the parking lot on McArdle Street, just off Rt. 202W past the junction of Rt. 202 & Rt.17, between the Manchester Grange Hall and Fielders' Choice Ice Cream Stand. The parking lot is the first right after you turn on McArdle Street. DISTANCE: 28.8 miles. TERRAIN: rolling with some challenging hills. HIGHLIGHTS: views of Cobbossee Lake, back roads of Winthrop, Manchester, West Gardiner, Litchfield, and Monmouth, and a potential ice cream stop conveniently at the end! LEADER: Jim Merrick, hjmerrick@gmail.com Link to Ride Map (2015): http://gmap-pedometer.com/?r=6801528 For more info on the Kennebec Valley Bicycle Club contact Jim Merrick at hjmerrick@gmail.com, check out the club blog at http://postedroads.blogspot.com, or follow us on Facebook.

Hill Topping

We had a really nice ride out to the Nezinscot Farm on Sunday, with a near record turnout of 28 riders, about a half-dozen or so actually stayed on the planned route, but everyone got back OK and in good spirits. Thanks to all who came out and kept their cool in the face of going astray and dealing with hostile truckers (dealt with admirably, I should note).. With luck, we will have more fine riding in store for this Saturday in Chesterville. Please remember that we are still in an on-going pandemic, despite mixed signals from public health authorities, so keep up with social distancing and bring a mask for times when you can't (especially if you are still waiting on vaccination), and please stay home if you are feeling unwell. Hope to see you Saturday! Saturday, May 22 - CHESTERVILLE "There's No Place Like Home" - a tour around Chesterville, Farmington Falls, New Sharon and Vienna. START: 9:00 am at the ride leader's new home at 192 Hilltop Road (aka Hill Top or Hill-Top) in Chesterville. Please park along the roadside. DISTANCE: 28 miles. TERRAIN: flat to rolling with some significant hills. HIGHLIGHTS: the scenic Chesterville Esker, Zion Hill, Cape Cod Hill, and a bunch of no-name hills. Possible post-ride get-together at the ride leader's house. LEADER: John Lanoue, john.lanoue@avid.com. LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://www.strava.com/routes/2821566370865323008

Not for Naught by the Nezinscot

We had a wonderful Mothers' Day ride out of Vassalboro last Sunday under exceptionally clear, sunny skies. We had a great group of 20 riders as we explored some of the prime roads around Vassalboro and China. Many thanks to Jeanine for again leading another fine ride. This Sunday we will start in Wayne and head out to Turner and Leeds and explore some new roads, taking us past the Nezinscot Farm. Please remember to bring masks and use them at the ride start and when stopping at stores, maintain social distancing, and stay home and get well if you are feeling sick. Hope to see you Sunday! Sunday, May 16 - WAYNE "A Nezinscot Necessary" - a tour across the Androscoggin to the Nezinscot, through Wayne, Turner and Leeds. START: 9:00 am at the Wayne Elementary School on 48 Pond Road. DISTANCE: 30 miles. TERRAIN: some flat, some hilly. HIGHLIGHTS: scenic riversheds and ridgetop views, Androscoggin Riverlands State Park, and a possible stop at the Nezinscot Farm Store. LEADER: Jim Merrick, 293-2784, hjmerrick@gmail.com. LINK to ROUTE MAP: https://www.gmap-pedometer.com/?r=7422519