Ok, so we’ve piqued your interest. But how does a two-day or seven-day cycling adventure really work? Here’s what you need to know!

Riders

While there are two different distances, the New England Classic is one ride. The starting line is at Middlesex Community College in Bedford, Massachusetts, and that’s where the finish line is, too.

The two-day riders pedal from Massachusetts to Maine and then return to Bedford on a comfy tour bus, while the seven-day riders make a big loop up through New Hampshire, Maine and Vermont; then back into New Hampshire before returning to Massachusetts.

Support for your ride

The NEC is intended to be an enjoyable cycling vacation. You do your part through fundraising at least the minimum pledge requirement of $600 for the NEC 150 or $3,000 for the NEC 550. We do ours by taking care of everything else. That includes:

  • A gear truck that will transport your luggage from each day’s start to that night’s lodging.
  • Accommodations in air-conditioned college dorms, hotels and scenic resorts.
  • Breakfast (other than the first morning) and dinner each day. Lunch is on your own, but we’ll let you know about great places to enjoy lunch and a view.
  • Bike mechanics at the start and finish each day. The mechanics then drive the route to provide mechanical support when and where you need it.
  • Bike mechanics at the start and finish each day. The mechanics then drive the route to provide mechanical support when and where you need it.
  • Well-stocked rest stops with water, Gatorade, fruit and a wide variety of snacks (including homemade cookies, pickles and, on some days, PB&J’s!).
  • A “Boost Bus” to provide that extra margin of support for cyclists who need a little extra help at the beginning or end of the day.

So that’s how it works. You bring your bike, your enthusiasm and your energy, and we’ll make sure you have a great time on the New England Classic, the cycling adventure of a lifetime!