Sub-40-degree temperatures aren’t exactly prime biking conditions. Nor are baggy clothing ensembles, floppy hats or long beards — unless, of course, you’re one of the hundreds who hop in the saddle for Milwaukee’s annual Santa Cycling Rampage.
The event organized by the Wisconsin Bike Fed returns this Saturday and will add to what was already going to be a spirited downtown scene, what with the intrastate basketball showdown of Marquette vs. Wisconsin at Fiserv Forum.
The red-clad folks from Madison will feel right at home when more than 1,500 cyclists roll through the city, many of whom will be dolled up in Kris Kringle cosplay. They’ll have plenty of festival company on the 12-mile route, with other riders opting for other seasonal characters — Mrs. Claus, the Grinch, snowmen, reindeer and more.
While fun is central to the Santa Cycle Rampage, the impact of the Milwaukee ride and its sister event in Madison on Dec. 14 extends across the state. The funds raised support the Bike Fed’s youth and family-based education and encouragement programs in Milwaukee and Dane Counties that keep everyone riding safe and often. In Milwaukee, those efforts reached more than 2,000 young cyclists.
The Santa Cycle Rampage pushes off from Bike Fed headquarters (187 E. Becher St.) at 9:30 a.m. sharp and follows a 12-mile route that finishes right back where it started. Café Hollander on Downer Avenue will once again serve as the halfway point or — if 12 miles is a bit much for you — a starting point for those who can safely and politely merge with the bigger group.
Speaking of shorter routes, the Elf Cycle Frenzy aimed at little pedalers and their families is back as well and will also leave from Bike Fed HQ at 9:45 a.m., right after the main ride departs.
The organization’s Safe Routes to School education staff will lead a 3-mile ride through Bay View, ending at Centraal Grand Café & Tappery (2306 S. Kinnickinnic Ave.). There will be holiday music to spice up the ride, as well as a free make-your-own hot cocoa bar and kids activities at Centraal.
If you’re interested in either ride, visit the Wisconsin Bike Fed website and choose the appropriate ticketing option.
