Bike Philly bicycle ride happening September 11

The annual Bike Philly bicycle ride returns on Sunday, September 11, 2011. The ride closes major Philadelphia streets to cars, giving Center City the appearance of a bicycle-first neighborhood for several hours Sunday morning.

Bike Philly is organized by the Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia, which uses the ride as a fundraiser and as a demonstration of bicycling’s widespread appeal in the city. Over 2,500 people participated in last year’s rainy ride, and 3,500 rode in 2009. The ride is supported by mechanics and rest stops, and the flat course and closed-to-cars aspect make Bike Philly very popular with families and inexperienced riders.

“My daughters and I love Bike Philly, and we wouldn’t miss it,” said John Iodice, a Bicycle Coalition member and volunteer.  “It’s such a different experience sharing the road with thousands of cyclists and no motor vehicles.”

The ride begins at Eakins Oval at 8:00 AM on Sunday, September 11th.  Riders complete 10, 20, or 35-mile courses and return to Eakins Oval. The route takes riders through Logan Square, Chinatown, Old City, Society Hill, Fairmount Park and outlying suburban townships in Montgomery & Delaware Counties. Online registration closes on Saturday, September 10th and day-of registration will be available at Eakins Oval beginning at 6:30 AM. More information on the ride and its routes is available at www.bikephilly.org.

Photo opportunity at east-facing Philadelphia Museum of Art steps from 7:30 AM – 8:15 AM and along the ride course starting at 8:00 AM.  Locations along the ride course include 10th & Arch, Columbus Blvd at the Race Street Pier, Broad & Lombard St, Logan Square, and the Girard Street Bridge.