Would you like pie during your ride? Bicycling fundraiser features lunch, dessert, music

Organizers of the Amish Country Bike Tour are gearing up for the 38th annual ride around Kent County in what has become identified with a certain dessert. More on the sweet stuff later.

As for the main details, the bicycle ride and after-party will be Saturday, Sept. 7, starting and ending at Legislative Mall, 410 Legislative Ave., Dover.

The event benefits Bike Delaware, which advocates for safe, convenient cycling and walking and for connecting communities with a bicycle-friendly transportation network.

“We welcome riders from all over the Mid-Atlantic region to enjoy a truly peaceful and scenic bicycle tour across the western Kent County while rewarding themselves with freshly baked pie,” said tour coordinator Ryan Kennedy. “There’s a special bond between returning riders and volunteers, making this event a true labor of love.”

About 2,000 riders are expected, with about 1,800 registered as of Aug. 24.

Here are 5 things to know about the ride, accompanying attractions and how to register.

1. How far is the ride?

You can choose from five routes of 16, 25, 50, 62 or 100 miles. The longer rides start earliest: 100 miles at 7 a.m., 62 miles at 7:30 a.m., 50 miles at 8 a.m., 25 miles at 8:30 a.m. and 16 miles at 9 a.m.

2. Are there rest stops and help if something’s wrong with me or my bike?

Yes, all rides have a rest stop at the Amish School House on Rose Valley School Road. The rides of 50 and 62 miles have two additional rest stops, while the 100-mile ride has three additional rest stops.

For serious injuries or illnesses, organizers recommend you call 911. Police and emergency responders are aware that the event is happening.

For mechanical problems or flat tires, riders will be given the “SAG” support phone number to call for help, but riders are advised to carry extra tire tubes because those won’t be provided.

Riders who are unable to finish their route can call SAG support.

3. Stop for pie, then enjoy lunch and the after-party!

One of the highlights included with the registration fee is the slice of freshly baked Amish pie at the rest stop at the Amish School House. Because this has become such a well-known part of the tour, the event is also called the “Ride for Pie” with that Twitter/X hashtag.

Lunch is included after the tour on Legislative Mall, but you have to give your event wristband to the food truck vendor of your choice to get your meal. Sodas and water are included.

The after-party features music by the band Glass Onion from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., vendors, and – for those 21 and older – beer, wine, hard cider and seltzers for sale.

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4. What are the safety rules during the ride and what if it rains?

Helmets are required. Earphones and earbuds aren’t allowed.

Obey traffic laws. Roads won’t be closed to traffic.

Riding side by side with another rider is allowed, but if traffic backs up behind you, please ride single file.

The organizers emphasize: “This is a tour, not a race.”

The event will be held rain or shine but could be delayed or canceled because of severe weather. No refunds will be given. If the tour is canceled, you may claim your registration fee as a tax-deductible donation.

More bicycle news: Your guide to cycling in Delaware. See the best trails, with more in the works.

5. How much does it cost and how do I register?

The fee for ages 17 and older is $75 by Sept. 1 at 11:59 p.m. or $80 after.

The fee for children 16 and younger is $25, and they must ride with an adult.

For registration information, see the website, www.bikede.org/amish-country-bike-tour/.

If you want to plan for next year, discounts are available for early registration, with information on the website and Facebook page.

After registering, make sure you have “[email protected]” and “[email protected]” as approved or trusted senders in your email to receive updates.

No registration packets will be mailed. Packet pickup dates are Friday, Sept. 6, from 4-7:30 p.m. at 9 East Taphouse, 9 E. Loockerman St., Dover, or on the day of the tour, Saturday, Sept. 7, from 6-10 a.m., at Legislative Mall.

Reach reporter Ben Mace at [email protected].

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This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Amish Country Bike Tour fundraiser Sept. 7 in Dover has pies and party