KalTour 2016 dedicated to the crash victims of June 7th

     The Kalamazoo Bicycle Club announces that 100% of the proceeds from the 25th Annual KalTour bicycle tour will be given to the Kalamazoo Strong Organization. So many cyclists were impacted by this tragedy that organizations are joining forces to raise money for the victims and their survivors.   Collaborating with the TriKats, SWWMBA, Pedal Bicycles and other local organizations  KBC will provide the donation to benefit 9 families affected by the tragic cycling crash on Tuesday, June 7th.  Online registration is available at www.kalamazoobicycleclub.org and will be limited to the first 1200 riders.

        KalTour is a chance for beginning and experienced cyclists to challenge themselves while enjoying the scenery of the Kalamazoo and Van Buren County countryside. Cyclists will pass through the farm fields, orchards, vineyards, and forests of southwest Michigan.  The tour begins and ends at the Bronson Athletic Club just south of I-94 at 9th Street in the “Groves” Business Park where riders will exit to low-traffic roads.  Participants may choose one of four marked routes to ride at their own chosen pace: a 15 mile family ride, 31 miles (50 kilometers), a 62 mile (metric century), or a challenging 100 mile route. The routes are marked with colored arrows painted at intersections, maps are also provided for the cyclists to carry.  KalTour is a supported ride; there are several scheduled stops providing restrooms, water, snacks, and vehicles available to assist in the case of breakdowns.  Area bike shops provide mechanical support. All of the routes converge for lunch at the Briar Patch Plant Nursery on Q Avenue west of 2nd Street.  Cold watermelon will be served at the end of the ride.

     Ride courses open promptly at 7:00 AM.  Course support ends at 4:00 PM. Helmets are required at all KBC events.  Headphones are prohibited.  Riders under 18 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.   We are expecting a large crowd.   Riders should base their arrival time according to the scheduled start of the chosen route:   

• 7:00 to 8:30 - 100 miles (century)

• 8:00 to 10:30 - 62 miles (100 K or metric century)

• 9:30 to Noon - 31 miles (50 K)

• 10:00 to Noon - 17 miles

• Departing at 10:00 and 11:00 - 13 mile escorted family ride

Parking is available at Bronson Athletic Club, but consider carpooling and parking in the main KVCC lot before riding to the start.