Cascade Spawning Cycle, Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if it rains?
All Cascade Bicycle Club organized rides happen rain or shine. It is always a good idea to carry a light rain shell on any bike ride in the Pacific Northwest most of the year. There are many great places to stop and take a break along the route if that pesky Seattle sprinkle does come down.

How do I register for the Spawning Cycle?
That's easy! Check our registration page for more details.

You can mail in your registration and payment.
You can drop by the Cascade Bicycle Club office and pay in person.
You can register online.
You can just show up on the day of the event at Myrtle Edwards Park to register between 8 a.m. and 11:30 a.m.

If I register by mail will I receive a confirmation in the mail?
No confirmation will be mailed. All you need to do is show up to the start line, and we will have your registration packet for you. The registration booth will be located next to the concrete statues in the middle of the park.

How much does it cost?
Registration fees are different for adults and kids. If you're a Cascade Bicycle Club member, you'll receive a $5 discount.

[back to top]

What does my registration fee include?
Your registration includes your bib number, food stops, route map, emergency services, and a lot of fun.

Where does my registration fee go?
The Restore Our Waters Cascade Spawning Cycle is a fundraiser for the Cascade Bicycle Club Education Foundation, a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.

What kind of food will be on the route?
Every year, we offer fun, themed food stops with delicious treats. The two food stops are located at wonderful parks: Seward Park, for all you longer route riders and at the Ballard Locks. We serve high-carbohydrate food that is not meant to constitute a meal but is designed to keep you going. If you need a meal or have special dietary needs you should plan accordingly. Typical food at the stops include items like Clif bars, bagels, fruits, cookies, and peanut butter and jelly. We offer a wonderful no-host salmon BBQ (other food available also!) at the end of the ride.

Will there be any mechanical support or on this ride?

Yes, we have two service stops open en route to help you should you run into trouble. One at the start/finish line and one at the Seward Park stop.

If we are on a tandem do we have to register both people?
Yes, each rider must complete a registration form including the waiver on the back side. This way each rider will have access to all the services.

How long is the ride?
We're offering five routes to suit all levels of riders:

Family Fry - A fun 4-mile ride on bike paths only.
Chinook Explorer - an 8-mile-to-the-Locks and back ride (very small hill)
Chum Run - Buddy up for this 14-mile excursion.
Fit for a King - A longer Seattle loop at 33 miles.
Cedar River Special - At 55 miles, it's longest loop for the sturdiest riders.

[back to top]

Where does it go?
Check out the routemaps to get an idea.

Will you provide a map at the startline?
We will provide a detailed cue sheet at the packet pick-up.

Once I'm riding, how will I know where to go?
The route will be marked with direction fish shaped arrows (Dan Henry's) and you will also receive a map at registration.

What happens if I can't finish the ride for some reason?

Because the ride takes place within the city of Seattle, we do not offer a support vehicle on the Restore Our Waters Cascade Spawning Cycle. We suggest using the existing Metro service (and bike racks) and having a personal plan for getting back should the need arise. We do have a day of ride hotline where we will try and help riders who are stranded or have minor medical issues. Riders should call the day or event hotline on the cue sheet for assistance. As always call 911 first in the case of serious accidents.

Can I wear an earbud? Or two?
Cyclists must turn off and put away any headset or ear bud (s) connected to any electronic device capable of transmitting or playing a broadcast or recording. Distractions such as music players and radios are also not permitted. If necessary to check, use, or answer a cell phone or pager, the cyclist must first pull ofthe road or trail and stop.

Should kids go on this ride?
YES! This is a great ride for kids and families. The 4-mile Family Fry, 8-mile Chinook Explorer and 14-mile Chum-Run are doable by just about anyone in your gang.

Is there other cool stuff for our kids to do on or after this ride?

Yes, we feature a FREE Bike Skillz and Thrillz rodeo and stunt course, with bike games for kids for ages 4-14. The course combines mountain bike jumps with safety and skills lessons addressing the most common accidents of kids. Course is open 11am -1pm, Bring your own bike and helmet. Parents/guardians must sign waiver.

I've don't think I'm experienced enough to participate in a Cascade Bicycle Club ride like STP. Maybe I can't do this one either.
The Spawning Cycle is perfect for riders like you. We don't expect you to join a paceline or become Lance Armstrong. This ride is designed to celebrate the sights of Seattle from two wheels.

Is it possible to ride the Spawning Cycle for charity?

We have a program already in place that allows you to pedal your bike for your favorite charity or organization: Pedal Power.

[back to top]

Will there be food?
We'll have a couple of food stops on the courses, more for longer, less for shorter. Details are coming soon!

Is there parking at the start line at Myrtle Edwards Park and is it free?
No assigned parking, only street parking, which is free on Sundays. We urge people to avoid the cruise ship south side of the Park. This is a great event to ride to start line via your own bike...leave the car at home or park over in the Magnolia side and ride in on the trail!

What happens when I finish the ride?
The fun's not over! The Finish Line Party features live music, crafts for kids and more food (for sale) from local vendors.

Can I see a complete schedule of the days events?
It's on the details page… But please plan on starting by 9 a.m. to miss any potential sporting event traffic along the route if you are doing the two longer routes.

[back to top]

For additional Cascade Bicycle Club contact information, visit About Cascade.