Saturday, February 12th

MERCHANT MARINE CONVOY
10AM, Cunningham Park (196th & UnionTurnpike free, safe parking lot; 2, 592.5
feet West of the Clearview Expressway), 35 moderately hilly miles.

Warm up those dormant cycling muscles on a leisurely ride to the US Merchant
Marine Academy in Kings Point, overlooking Long Island Sound (www.usmma.edu).
We'll bike through some scenic residential areas, eat lunch indoors, and then
proceed to the Academy. On the way back, we'll enjoy waterfront views in
Douglaston Manor and along the Joe Michaels Mile Bike Path. Note: Temperature
below
32 degrees one hour before the start, or ANY ice or snow on the road,
cancels. Leaders: Ira Najowitz and John Chiarella. Pace?  15 mph, or slightly
less;
point, drop sweep.

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Saturday, March 5th

MONTAUK TRAINING RIDE #1: SANDS POINT
9AM, Cunningham Park (196th & Union Turnpike free, safe parking lot; 2, 592.5
feet West of the Clearview Expressway), 30 miles

Last week we were testing the waters, this time we're really serious. It's
time to get into shape for the bicycling season and whether youve been riding
with us in the cold or youve just had your bike hanging on the hooks all winter
long, it's time to stretch those legs. Join the first training ride for a
short but fun one on the island. Bring or buy lunch. Remember to pack your tools
and a spare. Leaders: to be announced in the March April issue.
Five Borough Bicycle Club - New York
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Day trips are free rides in and around New York City. Rides are open to
responsible cyclists, both 5BBC members and non-members. No advance sign-up is
required. Rides are led by trained, experienced 5BBC leaders. Unless noted, the
Point-Drop-Sweep system is used, in which leaders ride at the front and rear of
the group, keeping cyclists together. This system accommodates a wide range of
paces within one ride. Riders generally receive a map or cue sheet of the
route. Rest and lunch stops are planned. Unless otherwise stated, day trips
return to the starting point at the end of the ride. Riders are required to wear
a
helmet approved by either ANSI or SNELL, and are required to have a legally
equipped bicycle, including working brakes, a bell or horn, and front and rear
lights for night rides. Bicycle gear should include at least one water bottle,
a pump, spare tube or patch kit, basic tools, and a lock. Dress for the
season, including temperature variations of 15-20 degrees in either direction
from
the temperature at the starting time. Bring lunch or money for it, plus money
for admission fees and railroad tickets as needed; an area map is also
suggested. Motorized vehicles and headphones are not permitted. At the
discretion of
the leaders, rides may be cancelled due to bad weather. Participants under Age
18

Most leaders welcome responsible cyclists of all ages to join our rides, but
we need to know that they understand the risks involved and are assuming
responsibility for their own safety. The law of this country limits the ability
of
those under 18 to take responsibility for themselves. We therefore REQUIRE
that the parent or guardian of a minor joining a 5BBC ride come with them to the
start of the ride. Only if the parent or guardian signs a special waiver for
minors and either rides with the minor or arranges for another adult to
accompany the minor during the ride may the minor join the ride. EXCEPTION: If
the
parent or guardian of a minor wishes the minor to ride with 5BBC, but cannot
appear at the start of each ride, please contact the Club to arrange to sign a
waiver of liability that we can keep on file. Minors with waivers on file must
also have an adult agree to accompany them on each ride. The participation of a
minor in a 5BBC event must always be cleared with the leader of that event.
Don't Worry, Be Happy!

Looking to get into or return to cycling? It's not too late. The Five Borough
Bicycle Club offers a variety of rides led by trained 5BBC leaders. We're
eager to share the joys of cycling with newcomers, returnees as well as active
trippers. How about you? Some of our rides are suited for beginners. See the Day
Trips listings with a happy face symbol. Rides range from 20 to 30 miles, go
at a leisurely pace and attract cyclists like you. Make sure your bike is in
good working order, has adequate tire pressure and brakes that work well. Carry
at least one spare tube, tire irons, a pump, a patch kit and a lock. Most
important: wear a helmet approved by either ANSI or SNELL. Ride smart, and have
an adventurous spirit. Bike Access on Trains

Metro-North Railroad and Long Island Railroad (LIRR) Bike Permits
There is one permit for both, available at either Grand Central Terminal,
Metro-North window #27 (or call 212-532-4900), and Penn Station LIRR information
booth (or call 718-558-8228). There is a $5 fee. Specific restrictions apply.
Note: old LIRR and Metro-North permits are still valid for their respective
lines.



Five Borough Bicycle Club - New York





Questions? Emial me anytime



John Chiarella (Fixer3@...)

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                       |  /<,
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