By Darren Lum

Get rolling with the Haliburton Real Easy Ryders (HRER) this cycling season to meet new people who share a love and interest for riding.

The recreational group of cyclists are encouraging new members to join them on tours of various lengths throughout the week around the Highlands and outside the area this season.

President Robin Bell said the club provides new and experienced cyclists over 18 an opportunity for an opportunity for social interaction and physical benefits.

“So, we’re looking for people who like to cycle. We’re very happy to let people [join] on electric bikes … you don’t have to have any great experience, but you do need a bike and you do need to know how to ride it and you have to a helmet, have a bell or horn,” he said.

Many rides include a social opportunity after the ride, with food or drinks at various local eateries, and can be as short as 10 kilometres are or as long as 60 kilometres. One of the featured rides is the ride through Algonquin Park and a two night/three day autumn trip in the Ottawa Valley.

Rides are held Sundays, Tuesdays or Friday morning, starting in May until the end of October.

From a press release, the club held its first ride in 1997 when a group of eight friends came together for a ride. By the next year, the group of eight grew to 30 cyclists and the Highlands Cycling Club started. In 2005, the club grew to more than 100 members. It was at that time, that the club incorporated as a non-profit organization and took the name “Haliburton Real Easy Ryders.” 

The objective of the club is to “promote recreational cycling in a non-competitive, inclusive, friendly and social atmosphere. All levels of road cyclists and bikes (road, touring, hybrid, gravel, recumbent, and electric) are always welcome.”

There are 76 scheduled rides this season.

Membership is $40 and helps to cover insurance and with covering expenses related to the club’s organized social events.

The club has a private Facebook page for members. It offers information about the club, upcoming rides, and maps for solo efforts outside of the scheduled rides. Three people are allowed during the season to ride as guests of a member for two rides during the season.

To commemorate the 25th anniversary, the club will hold a “Let’s Get Rolling Social” at 1 p.m. on Sunday, May 1 at the Stanhope Firefighters Hall, located at 1123 North Short Road in Algonquin Highlands. Coffee and treats will be offered, with a presentation highlighting some of the fun rides, trips and socials planned. All interested cyclists are invited to join this fun afternoon and learn more about cycling in Haliburton County. For more information visit the club’s website at www.haliburtonrealeasyryders.com.