Make sure your bike is in good running condition.
If you are not a frequent rider, take your bike to the shop for a check-up and tune up.  Make sure the seat and handlebars are at the correct height.  There will be mechanics at every rest stop and roving mechanics on the road to assist you.  But you must do your part—please arrive with your bicycle tuned and ready to ride.

Bring a spare inner tube.  We can’t stress this enough (and some of us carry two tubes).
Flat tires are the most common bicycle breakdown.  Remember, this is an urban ride that highlights the green jewels of the city. Be prepared so that you can thoroughly enjoy the ride. While we make a concerted effort to sweep as much of the route as we can, it is an urban ride; some glass and debris should be anticipated.

Bring a water bottle, you will need it all day long.
Except for our morning coffee station, disposable cups and containers are not available at Tour dem Parks, Hon!

Bring Sunscreen and sunglasses.

Bring your Helmet!
Every rider must wear a helmet -- no ‘cuses!

Prepare Your Body.
Your bike is tuned up, ya got your helmet and water bottle…  now focus on yourself.   Tour dem Parks, Hon! offers 4 routes to accommodate a wide range of riding abilities… but it can also offer motivation to improve your cycling skills and to get yourself in better shape.  The more you prepare, the more comfortable you will be on the Tour, and the more likely you will be to go cycling on your own.  (Ain’t that part of the plan?)  If you haven’t cycled or exercised in a while, you should start slowly and maybe consult a personal trainer or physician as part of your training.  

Suggestions for Preparing Your Body:

• Take a short ride several evenings every week until the Tour.
• Make a date with your bicycle every weekend.  You can even take your bike on the Metro, Light Rail and MTA buses.
• Check www.meetup.com -- there’s a group in Baltimore that meets for bicycle rides.
• Cycling is becoming part of Baltimore’s transportation future—take this opportunity to join the fun.

Check out our links for the Description of Rides, Schedule of Events and others for more detailed information.