Although we would love for it to be all fun and games at Bike MS: The Road Divided, we do want to make sure that everyone remains safe during the event. Bike MS Ride Marshal Captain Susan Brock has several tips to help you train now, and she shares best practices for event weekend.

Going the Distance

Bike MS is unlike any other cycling event with two full days of riding that can be a challenge for even the seasoned cyclist. It's important to properly train so you can have a safe and successful weekend. Here's why:

• Proper training will leave you less prone to injury or "bonking" that can derail your ride.
• Your legs will be prepared so you're more likely to finish on your bike rather than in SAG.
• You'll have enough left in the tank after Day 1 to go again on Day 2.
• Your backside will thank you!

With three route options on Day 1, you can pick which route is best for you by multiplying the route mileage by 75% and comparing that number to your longest training ride. Your longest ride should be equal or higher.

Route Maps and Site Maps

Please visit here to view the route maps and site maps for the weekend!  

Be a Safety MVP

As a cyclist, you have the same rights and duties as drivers. Both your safety and the image of bicyclists depend on your behavior on the bike. Be a safety MVP by being Mindful, Visible, and Predictable.  

 be Mindful

• Pay attention and think ahead.
• Anticipate what drivers, pedestrians, and other cyclists will do next.
• Watch for turning, oncoming, and passing vehicles
• Look out for road hazards like debris and potholes, and cross railroad tracks at right angles. 
  

 be Visible

• Be seen.
  
• Ride where people notice you; use correct lane positioning. 
  
• Use front and tail lights and reflective gear in dim and dark conditions.
• Wear bright clothing and make eye contact with others on the road when possible. 
  

 be Predictable

• Ride consistently and safely.
• Hold your line - don't swerve or drift.
• Make your intentions clear; check behind you and signal when changing lanes or turning. 
  
• Obey traffic signals and stop signs. 
  

Visit Bike MS Oklahoma for more safety information and cycling tips.

Sign up for text alerts

Riders, stay connected! Text the word OKLAHOMA to 68686 to opt-in to receive important text alerts for Bike MS: The Road Divided, presented by Sam's Club, before and during event weekend. Standard message and data rates may apply.

Before you go, pack more than H2O

Water is great for hydration, but for an endurance event like Bike MS, your body needs more than plain H2O. The simple science here is that when you sweat, you expel more than just water. Sweating during a long ride depletes your body of much-needed sodium and other electrolytes.

If you only refuel with water, you're not adding back all you're losing, which can spell trouble: muscle cramping, nausea, dizziness, or the dreaded "bonk" that puts you out of commission.To stay ahead of electrolyte loss, especially during Bike MS, it's important to replace electrolytes often. There are lots of products out there: drinks powders, gels, chews and tablets. Most of them will work, but if you're not sure, ask around; your bike shop and other cyclists can help.

Each Bike MS rest stop will have sports beverages and snacks available. Refill your drink bottles, and eat and drink often - take in fluids every 20 minutes. If it's a hot day, you may need to drink more often.

Rules of the Road

Follow these simple Bike MS specific rules to help you have a smooth ride. 

• For the safety of all riders, personal SAG vehicles are not allowed on any route.
• Starts on both days will be staggered to allow for less congestion on the roadway.
• SAG drivers will be identifiable by a National MS Society sign on the side of the vehicle and blinking lights on top.
• To signal for SAG help from one of our SAG drivers, pull off the road and pat the top of your helmet or wave your helmet.

The ABCs of Bike Maintenance

Get into the habit of checking your bike before every ride to ensure it's in good working order. Small adjustments can make a big difference in the safety and quality of your ride. ABC Quick Check only takes a minute - this LAB demo video shows you how - and gets your bike ready to roll.

• Air: Be sure you have enough air in your tires.
• Brakes: Look to see that your brake pads are not worn.
• Chain and Cranks: Pull on your cranks to see that they are not loose. Check that the chain is not rusted and is free of gunk.
• Quick Release: Make sure all quick releases are closed.
• Check: Take a slow, brief ride to check that your bike is working properly.

Give your bike some love before the ride by getting it tuned up at one of our official bike partner stores. Bike inspections are free, and a tuned bike pedals, shifts, and stops properly to help you have a safe ride. Once inspected at an official Bike MS store, you will receive an inspection sticker for your bike.

Additional resources

The National MS Society has partnered with the League of American Bicyclists (LAB) to create Safety in Group Cycling. This is a great resource for you and your team, from rookie riders to veterans. 

The LAB also has lots of additional safety videos and general information for riders of all levels on its website. It's a thorough source for safety education.

Check out the LAB's Ride Smart page for cycling tips and rules of the road.

Reminder, you MUST raise the $300 fundraising minimum in order to pick up your rider packet and participate in Bike MS: The Road Divided.

Questions or concerns? Contact:

Morgan Adams

morgan.adams@nmss.org

918.770.7270