Gear Library Fundraiser Overnighter Ride with the Common Wheel in Lancaster, PA

Gear Library Fundraiser Overnighter Ride: Join the Adventure and Support Accessible Bikepacking

The Common Wheel and Hellbenders Collective PA are excited to announce a special Gear Library Fundraiser Overnighter Ride, aimed at making outdoor adventures more accessible for everyone. This unique event will not only offer an unforgettable bikepacking experience but will also raise funds to build a gear library that provides essential camping and bikepacking gear to those who need it.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, September 7th – Sunday, September 8th, 2024

Route Overview:

• Option 1: Participants can start from the Lancaster location at 701 East King St and ride 15 hilly miles to the Columbia location at 137 Locust St. From there, they will continue another 13 miles to River Rock Campground.
• Option 2: Participants can start directly from the Columbia location and ride 13 miles to River Rock Campground.

At each starting point, there will be staff members available to assist with loading gear, and for those who prefer, there is an option to transport camping gear in a support van.

Upon arrival at River Rock Campground, participants will set up camp and enjoy an evening under the stars. The following morning, they will ride back to the Columbia location, where a delicious brunch awaits.

Fee and Registration

The trip operates on a sliding fee scale, with a suggested value of $40. All proceeds go towards building the gear library, making future trips like this accessible to more people. A bikepacking gear list will be provided to those interested in participating.

Important Requirements:

• Mandatory Gear: Participants must bring a bicycle and helmet. For those planning to camp, a tent and temperature-appropriate sleeping bag/pad are required. If participants do not have these items, they are encouraged to contact the organizers in advance to see if assistance is available, though availability is not guaranteed as this is a fundraiser to build the gear collection.

Inclusivity and Conduct:

• Priority will be given to sign-ups from underrepresented members of the cycling community.
• Respectful behavior is mandatory, and any signs of disrespect will result in being asked to leave the event.

Registration Link: Interested participants can sign up here.

How to Support the Gear Library

Even those who can’t join the ride can contribute to the gear library in several ways:

1. Monetary Donations: Donations can be made through the link in the bio or in person at any Common Wheel location.
2. Wishlist Orders: Items can be purchased directly from the wishlist to help stock the gear library.
3. Gear Donations: Donations of bikepacking and camping gear, including bike bags, tents, sleeping bags, cookware, and more, are welcome.
4. Shop Local: Support local businesses like Nittany Mountain Works and Dutchware Gear, who offer quality bikepacking and camping gear.

Get Involved

This event is more than just a ride; it’s an opportunity to make outdoor adventures accessible to everyone. Whether by participating in the ride, donating, or helping to spread the word, every contribution helps build a community where everyone can enjoy the great outdoors.

For more information or to sign up, visit the registration link or contact Kayla at [email protected]. Let’s come together to ride and build a gear library that supports the entire community!