BETHEL – Bicyclists from across Maine, several other states and Canada will gather at Gould Academy from July 11 to 13 for the Maine Bike Rally co-hosted by the Bicycle Coalition of Maine and local bike clubs.

“We are gearing up for the biggest and best Maine Bike Rally yet,” said Jeffrey Miller, Bicycle Coalition of Maine director. “With nearly 30 rides to choose from both off-road and on-road, some as short as 10 miles, others 100 miles long, there is something for everyone to enjoy.”

Camping, food, all rides, entertainment and a T-shirt are included in the price of $80 for adults ($65 for members of the bike clubs or Bicycle Coalition of Maine), and $30 for children ages 6 to 15. Children under the age of 6 participate free. Bethel region residents can participate in the rally free due to “Local Rider Sponsorship” by L.L. Bean. Registrations received after Monday, June 16, will be $90.

All the bike rides – from the Moose and Mountain Mosey, Paper and Pulp Mill Pedal and Covered Bridges Cruise to the traditional sunrise ride and stargazing night rides – are designed to take in the region.

On Saturday afternoon, participants can attend a Maine Bike Expo and check out the Ice Cream Social. On Saturday night, the Bicycle Coalition will host a Bicycle Safety Fashion Show fearturing Miss Maine 2002. There will also be an awards ceremony and a slide show by author Marty Basch detailing his Maine-to-Alaska bike tour.

The rally is co-hosted by Bicycle Coalition of Maine, the Casco Bay Bicycle Club, the Merrymeeting Wheelers, the Western Maine Pedalers and local Bethel businesses and organizations.

To register or for more information, contact the coalition at 623-4511, e-mail info@BikeMaine.org or visit the rally Web site at www.BikeMaine.org.

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