Bicyclists are gearing up for the second annual Tour de Bill, two exploratory rides of various lengths that will allow participants to see the city's historic, industrial, college and residential neighborhoods.
The event is scheduled, rain or shine, for June 6.
"We had such success last year we had to do it again," said organizers David and Louisa Stone, who are encouraging registrants to sign up for either a six-mile tour or a 15-mile trek.
The Stones said they were inspired by a 40-mile tour of New York City's five boroughs.
"We thought, 'Why not here?''' they said.
Last year, more than 130 cyclists rode in heat and humidity without injury, discovering the city's hidden gems.
Most participants said they wanted to repeat the experience.
"It's a real chance to see the city from a perspective that you don't see when driving by on the Interstate or on a street or highway," Louisa Stone said.
As done last year, the ride proceeds are going to be turned over to the River Valley YMCA Strong Kids campaign, which provides activity scholarships to area youth, the Stones said.
More than $3,000 was raised last year, the couple said.
"The scholarship helps families who can't afford full memberships, and it gets more children enrolled in the YMCA, which promotes a healthy lifestyle," Louisa Stone said.
Once again, the ride organizes outside the YMCA, 320 Elmira St., between 8 and 10 a.m. Registrants may select either a 6-mile route through historic, college, residential and city park areas or the 15-mile route covering a wider and more challenging course. Most of the riders were on the tour last year until 2 p.m.
"Either tour selected will show off a city that is becoming more bicycle friendly," Louisa Stone said.
The longer course is relatively flat, but some hills may challenge riders, especially at Wahoo Drive and the incline behind Roosevelt Middle School.
All riders will receive an event T-shirt, cue sheet, and snacks such as fruit and water at rest stops.
Except for a few flat tires and other minor equipment malfunctions, there were no problems during the ride last year, David Stone said. The route is mostly on city streets, and ride leaders are familiar with the sites.
Cyclists are responsible for obeying traffic rules. Riders need to sign a liability waiver and wear a helmet, the couple said.
Parents should be sure that their children are capable of riding on city streets with traffic.
The tour offers riders an additional rest stop at Bowman Field.
Cost to register is $15 for adults and $5 for those under 18. To register, go to www.williamsportymca.org or www.TourdeBill.org.
