PUMP IT UP!

The Clark Fork Valley Bike Club (CFVBC) invites everyone to pump up those bicycle tires, strap on their helmets and join them for some riding.

The posse of cycling enthusiasts, founded by Andrew Ordelheide, Reuben Stratford and Erik Digby, have organized cycling events geared toward getting riders of all skill levels out to enjoy what the area has to offer.

"As we rode together we got excited about all the great cycling opportunities in this beautiful valley. We wanted to spread the word to get more locals involved," Digby said. "We formally started the club in 2017 and we are currently trying to get our status as a non-profit."

The bike club meets for a Monday Night Beginner's Ride, unless it is raining or snowing. They gather on Main Street in Thompson Falls across from Minnie's Cafe at 5:30 p.m. (time changes to 6 p.m. in May) to take an exploratory journey on two wheels.

"This is a slow-paced ride averaging 12-15 miles, but you can turn around at any time if you don't want to go the whole distance," Digby said. He added that attendance has been great, averaging six to eight people each ride.

Digby encouraged everyone to "come see what the CFVBC is all about. We are here to promote a happy, healthy lifestyle through cycling. Come on over and bring a friend!"

Attend the club's first meeting of the season to determine if the group is a good fit for you. The members plan to develop upcoming events for the 2018 season and discuss what other items the club should tackle.

"Meet the club members and consider joining if you like to ride bikes and socialize," Digby said, extending an invite to anyone who is 12 years of age and older.

Saturday, April 21 at 11 a.m. the crew will meet in the parking lot of CFVH to kick off the season with their first official ride. The plan is to roll at a slow pace, exploring Plains for an hour or so. Digby assures that "no one will be left behind." He added that helmets are required on all club rides, and leaders teach new cyclists about cycling etiquette and road rules.

After the ride, the season's first business meeting is scheduled to take place 2-4 p.m. at the Community Congregational Church in Thompson Falls.

The mission of the group is to "provide a fitness and social outlet for residents and visitors to our community. We will take an active role in educating our members on bicycle safety, road and mountain biking etiquette, and in cooperating and sharing resources with other bicycle advocacy groups such as the U.S. Forest Service, MTB Missoula and International Mountain Biking Association."

More information on the bike club can be found by visiting their Facebook page, Clark Fork Valley Bike Club.