Ride
Details
The BP MS 150 is a two-day fundraising bike ride on April 27 – 28, 2019 organized by the National MS Society. The ride is the largest event of its kind in North America, with 13,000 cyclists, 3,500 volunteers, and countless spectators along the route and at the finish line in Austin. The fundraising goal for the 2018 BP MS 150 is $14 million dollars to bring hope to many who are affected by multiple sclerosis.
Your participation will drive MS research forward faster and deliver services to those who face the challenges of MS every day so they can live their best lives.
Ride Info & Requirements
Thank you for your interest in Bike MS. For the best experience, here are some things you need to know:
- The minimum age to ride is 12. See additional requirements below for cyclists ages 12 through 17.
- The fundraising minimum is $400.
- Walk-up registrations are gladly accepted, however, Bike MS is a fundraising ride with a minimum fundraising requirement, so register as early as you can to raise money and have the greatest impact.
- We ride rain or shine. In the event of lightning or other dangerous conditions, we will delay the event until conditions improve. Please watch for weather-related updates via email and the event website.
- Helmets are required. No exceptions.
- Family and friends are always welcome at our start and finish locations, but not on the route. Please encourage your friends and family to meet you at the finish line, or to volunteer for the event.
- Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles are provided to transport any cyclists in need so personal vehicles are prohibited on the route and at rest stops.
- Pets are not allowed at the ride; however, service animals are welcome.
- View the BP MS 150 Welcome Packet.
Youth Riders
We love having families participate in Bike MS! Here are some special requirements for cyclists ages 12 through 17:
- All riders must be at least 12 years of age on or before the day of the event – NO EXCEPTIONS.
- All riders ages 12 through 17 must review the Safety in Group Cycling brochure with a parent or legal guardian.
- Youth riders must be accompanied by a parent or responsible adult (at least 21 years of age) at all times.
- One parent/adult may be responsible for no more than three youth riders.
- Even if the child is on a tandem bicycle, all of the requirements above still apply.
- No trailers, tagalongs, or child carriers are allowed on the route.
What to Wear
We are delighted to welcome Primal Wear as the official apparel of Bike MS and invite you to check out our Primal Wear page to see their specials for Bike MS participants.
So what should you wear for Bike MS?
- Helmet – of course! You should wear one every time you ride, and you must when you ride in Bike MS. Modern helmets are lightweight, airy, and stylish as well.
- Jersey – a cycling jersey with rear pockets is handy for carrying snacks, your wallet and other items. Summer jerseys are usually made from a material that wicks moisture way from the skin, keeping you drier and more comfortable. Plenty of casual riders simply pull on a T-shirt, but realize that sweat (or a rain shower) makes cotton heavy and clammy.
- Shorts – cycling shorts are no joke. They are key to minimizing chafing and other discomforts when sitting on a saddle for any length of time. Good shorts have a large, smooth, lightly padded liner (“chamois”). If you don’t care for the skintight look of Lycra, opt for the “baggie” mountain bike style that look like casual shorts but still has a liner. Being a loose fit, though, means they could bunch uncomfortably during long rides.
- Gloves – short-finger cycling gloves absorb perspiration for a safer grip, protect against raw spots and blisters, and pad your palms to reduce road shock. Most have a terry back that gives you a way to wipe sweat from your eyes or energy drink from your chin.
- Shoes and socks – dedicated cycling shoes, either for road riding or mountain biking, are the best choice. The reason? Very firm soles that let you press as hard as you want without feeling uncomfortable pedal pressure. You can use mountain bike style shoes with or without toe clips and straps, or with clipless pedal systems. Plenty of casual riders simply wear running shoes, but their softness makes them less suitable for longer distances. Socks are important for comfort and sweat absorption. Choose the low-cut style if you’re worried about a funny tan line.
- Sunglasses – it’s best to use a sports model with unbreakable lenses that have 100% UV protection. The wraparound style will reduce bothersome wind, important if you wear contacts.
If you need some help training for Bike MS, make sure to read about Training Resources and remember to also read about Rider Safety.
First time riders: Get ready for the ride of your life!
Whether you’re a veteran cyclist or you’re new to the sport, if you’re new to Bike MS we want to ensure your first experience is the best it can be.
Tips for a Great Experience
1. Make sure you are in the know!
- bikeMS.org is your go-to source for ride information, especially the Event Updates section of the BP MS 150 website.
- If you have any questions or needs, please contact us.
2. Connect with other Bike MS cyclists
- Attend Rider kick-off events, Bike MS Happy Hour, and/or a sponsoring bike shop training ride. Be sure to check the Event Updates page for all of the local events happening for your ride.
- Recruit others to join you! It’s more fun when you ride with a friend. Use your Fundraising Center to email invitations to join you, or download photos and share videos, or request free promotional materials by contacting us at FundraisingSupport@nmss.org to tell others about Bike MS.
- Connect with us and other Bike MS cyclists on social media using #bikeMS:
@mssociety 
@bike_ms
3. Don’t wait to begin fundraising
- Don’t let the $400 minimum intimidate you – the average Bike MS cyclist raises on average $800! Raise $1,500.00 or more and become a member of an exclusive VIP Club. It’s not hard to get there, and we’re here to help you along the way.
- Tell your donors why you are riding and how their dollars make a difference.
- Log into your Fundraising Center to send emails and increase your goal as you reach it.
- Check out these fundraising Tips & Tools for additional ideas and resources.
4. Start training now and learn how to ride in a crowd
- Set realistic goals and keep track of your mileage.
- Take a Group Riding Skills Course at a local bike shop. With so many cyclists on the road, it’s important that everyone is a responsible cyclist. Learn the rules of the road and safe cycling practices.
- Check out sponsoring bike shop training rides.
- Take advantage of your free subscription to TrainingPeaks.
5. Make your ride meaningful
- Wear your “I Ride for…” bib, included in your Bike MS packet.
- Find out why others ride and get inspired.
- If you are living with MS, participate in the “I Ride with MS” program.
6. At the ride
- Check out What to Wear for more advice on what to wear for ride day.
- Stay hydrated by drinking before you become thirsty. Rest stops along the route will be fully stocked. Learn more about proper hydration and nutrition.
7. Experience the finish line
- After crossing the finish line to an abundance of cheering spectators, have your commemorative photo taken, collect your t-shirt, and enjoy all the finish line has to offer.