Local Rides & Clubs
Check this page often for updated listings of all types of cycling events in and around our area.
Rides require, at minimum, an appropriate bike in good working order, water, and a helmet. We suggest a spare tube, energy food, maybe a little cash in case we stop, and your biggest smile! Many rides are held subject to weather. It’s a good idea to confirm dates, time and any specific requirements, too. We’ll see you out there — and have fun!
Our Weekly Group Rides and Routes
Longboat Key Ride
The Longboat Key Ride is a classic in Sarasota. Crossing the highest point in Sarasota the Ringling Bridge, it continues to the north end of Longboat Key and beyond
VICC Wed Night Worlds - LWR
The Village Idiots Wednesday Night Worlds – LWR is a 30 mile ride that winds through the communities of Lakewood Ranch, Florida. This ride starts and ends @ Village Bikes – LWR and there are many speed groups to choose from. Post ride there is a gathering at one of the local pubs for socializing and adult beverages. This ride is only during daylight savings time, March – October.
Groups:
A = 26+
B+ = 23-25
B = 22-23
C+ = 21-22
C = 19-21
C- = 17-19
D = 14-16, no drop
Saturday Morning Bacon Ride - LWR
The Village Idiots Saturday Morning Bacon Ride is a 42 mile ride (for groups C+ and above) that winds through the communities of Lakewood Ranch, Florida and crosses over the Linger Lodge Rd bridge twice. This ride starts at Village Bikes – LWR and ends at the Starbuck's nearby for breakfast after the ride. There are many speed groups to choose from. This ride is year around
Groups:
A = 26+
B+ = 23-25
B = 22-23
C+ = 21-22
C = 19-21
C- = 17-19
D = 14 -16, no drop
Legacy Trail
Legacy Trail’s ‘Rail-to-Trails’ project runs from Clark Rd in Sarasota to the Train Station in Venice. Some detours due to unfinished bridges and extension. Currently being extended into Sarasota.
Ride and Event Disclaimer
You must wear a helmet to attend the shop rides. If you arrive without a helmet you will not be permitted to ride with the group – this is for your own safety.
You must ride responsibly and show respect to all others.
Although there will be experienced riders present, able to help you with problems, you are responsible for the upkeep of your bike and must turn up to rides with it well maintained. A badly maintained bike will be a liability to yourself and an annoyance to the others.
Ride within your own limitations. If you think the ride is too difficult, do not be influenced by other riders to attempt it. The responsibility of negotiating any corner, turn or other hazard must rest with the rider.
The function of the ride leader of the ride is to do no more than indicate the route direction.
The rides involve the use of public roads. Each rider must assume individual responsibility for his/her own safety in relation to other traffic and abide by the law of the land relating to road traffic.
Any person participating in a ride does so without any liability whatsoever on the part of the Village Bikes and those leading the ride on behalf of the Village Bikes in respect of any injury, loss or damage suffered, however caused.
Local Bike Clubs
Sarasota Manatee Bicycle Club
Sarasota Manatee Bicycle Club (SMBC) was founded in 1974 as the Sarasota Bicycle Club and merged with the Manatee Bicycle club in 1989 becoming the Sarasota Manatee Bicycle Club, Inc.
Whether you’re new to the sport or a seasoned rider we’ve got a group and a ride for you. Our rides are open to members and non- members alike. Check our rides and events calendar for a listing of current and future rides.
We also sponsor special weekend rides where the club will provide refreshments after the ride. You will also find that many of our members ride multi day rides both in the state and nationally. Join us and you’ll find a welcoming group who love to ride.
Village Idiots Cycling Club
We are located in the Sarasota/Manatee area of Florida. We have a very active ride schedule with group rides originating primarily in Lakewood Ranch, but we ride all over Bradenton and Sarasota as well.
Our group rides cater to various levels of ability, with ride leaders making sure the pace is controlled and assisting with pace line instruction when needed. Our beginners start out in a 14-18mph group and ride 20 miles. Our most advanced group rides 35 miles at speeds over 26mph, and we have many levels in between.
We are primarily a road biking club but have members that participate in mountain biking, cyclocross, and triathlons as well.
Get the Gear You Need
Shop for the perfect bike before your next ride. We’re here to answer all of your cycling related questions.
