R&R Cycling Tour on the Freedom Trail - Akron, OH to Kent State University

Sun, Aug 22, 2021 12:00 PM

Event Organizer - Jef Crew

Ride and Refresh! on the Freedom Trail in Akron, Ohio to the Portage County Hike & Bike Trail taking us to Kent State University's Brain Plaza. Explore the rich history of Kent State University and then enjoy a tasty refreshment before returning back to Akron.

The Freedom Trail "follows an unused railroad corridor" connecting downtown Akron to the Portage County Hike & Bike Trail - "Historically used as a transportation route by Native Americans, with Standing Rock nearby, the Portage Hike and Bike Trail is also located along the historic Erie rail line, with a portion of it running alongside a still-active railroad operated by the Akron Barberton Cluster Railway. Portions of the trail travel along the Cuyahoga River, remnants of the P&O Canal, the historic Kent Railyards, Towner’s Woods, and Chestnut Hills Park." (source: Birding in Ohio)

Beyond the excellence for producing educators Kent State University is known for, there is also the tragic event of 1970 - Four Dead in Ohio. "The tragedy was a watershed moment for a nation divided by the conflict in Southeast Asia. In its immediate aftermath, a student-led strike forced the temporary closure of colleges and universities across the country." (source: History - Kent State Shooting)

The tour route is 22 miles roundtrip. Some segments are rail-to-trail level, while other segments follow the lay of the land. Expect to put your cycle's gear shifter to use - there are some hills along the trail. Nevertheless, the tour comes with the usual CycleNuts 50% downhill guarantee. Near the midway turnaround spot is a refreshing tasty stop.

Points of interest: Freedom Trail, Portage County Hike & Bike Trail, Kent State University May 4th remembrance monument, Brain Plaza, and the town of Kent.

STARTing spot and tasty midway stop details are revealed with your ticket purchase. Watch the email address you have associated with CycleNuts for last minute changes, tour updates and helpful reminders. This is a rain or shine event except for dangerous weather conditions, such as a hurricane, tornado, or lightning storms which will trigger either a reschedule or tour credits for a future event.

CycleNuts Suggested Coronavirus Defense Strategy - Here is a safe social distancing strategy to practice on tour at starting spots and tasty stops during the ongoing Coronavirus pandemic. For the safety, consideration, and well-being of all it is a great idea to consider the following:

Governor DeWine Statement on New CDC Mask Guidance

(COLUMBUS, Ohio) — Ohio Governor Mike DeWine issued the following statement directing the Ohio Department of Health to conform the remaining health orders to CDC guidance through June 2nd:“Ohio will be amending our remaining health orders to comply with the new CDC guidance, which says that those who have been vaccinated no longer need to wear masks, while those who have not been vaccinated should still wear a mask and socially distance." The CDC still recommends everyone wear masks when they are in a healthcare setting, when they are travelling on public transportation, including airplanes, and when they are in a business or employer that chooses to require masks. Our order will be amended to reflect these recommendations, as well. source:

In a nutshell - CycleNuts is an alternative cycle touring experience where seeing and socializing take emphasis over speed and (ugh!) sweat. Join along on bikeway touring adventures to destinations near and far as we strive for the

• Goal: to create bikeway touring opportunities for cyclists of all types to enjoy together

• Mission: to encourage casual cyclists and cyclists interested in casual cycling to tour together

• Vision: a united cycling community that tours together on bikeway adventures for the holistic benefit of all

What to expect - Casual social cycle touring where exercise is optional, everybody finishes together, and nobody is dropped, abandoned, or left to fend for their self (unless they wish to be). Anticipate a slow pace under 11 mph average with CycleNuts’ 50% downhill guarantee. Sweating is optional. Pictures, merriment, and other tourist activities heartily encouraged. Allow ample time for the nature of CycleNuts tours including

• Trail-side breaks

• Eating and drinking

• Picture taking and posing

• Pacing with the slowest riders

• Looking at cool stuff along the way

• And other sorts of tourist activities – as well as unforeseen detours, breakdowns, and delays of various sorts.

Helmets are not mandatory - CycleNuts tours give preference to bikeways - bicycle trails and protected bicycle lanes. Routes may include dedicated bicycle lanes on streets, bicycle ‘friendly’ streets, and of necessity, regular streets, parking lots, sidewalks, and unpaved trails. Darkness may be experienced on evening or early morning rides. Lights in good working order at all times on CycleNuts tours are a great idea – to be seen and to see!

SAG-free - CycleNuts tours, including travel and over-night accommodations, are self-supported with the slightest of guidance. SAG is not provided. Carpools and caravans are individual choices. Emergency road support – if necessary – may be a creative, collective group effort or you may need to fend for yourself. Be prepared with options.

Recommended Gear - A cycle (uni, bi, tri, tandem, E, recumbent, or cycle/trailer rig). Protective gear of your choice. ID. Front and rear lighting. Communication device. Spare tube. Patch kit. Air pump. Wrench kit. Cycle lock. Water. Energy bar. Funds for refreshment breaks and emergencies. Sun screen. Pest repellent.

Recommended Preparation – Pre-check (before you load that bike for transport to the starting spot) brakes, tire pressure, lights, and rideability. Consider what you are wearing on tour and what you may need for changing weather conditions.

Yes – CycleNuts tour year-round.

Got questions? - Get answers! – http://CycleNuts.link FAQS

Ride and Refreshment Ts - what a great look for that next CycleNuts R&R touring adventure to another tasty stop!

It's getting hot out. It is hot out! Who needs sleeves?? And... look! ... it's a racerback! That's gotta make you go faster...right?

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

CycleNuts Tours in Akron, Ohio, Actual starting location revealed with your ticket, Akron, United States