Some cyclists ride bikes to get from one location to another. Some ride socially, some compete and some just want to get exercise.
All types of riders come together each year for the Cover Indiana Bike Tour. Sponsored by Habitat for Humanity, the event starts in Lafayette, goes into Southern Indiana and then travels through Indianapolis. Cyclists can participate for one or three days of the event, which starts May 10 and continues until May 16.
Doug Taylor, executive director of Habitat for Humanity in Lafayette, is the main organizer for the event.
"A lot of people go that aren't experienced, but then they turn into cyclists," he said.
Cyclists ride an average of 50 to 60 miles a day. While traveling, they spend nights in churches.
"It's always a lot of fun," he said. "Everyone really likes it. In the evenings, we get to know each other well."
Sophomore John Callahan, a pre-business major, is the president of the Ball State Cycling Club. He said long distance bike trips can be challenging.
"Physical fitness and keeping yourself fueled for the entire time [can be tough]," he said.
Callahan has never participated in the Cover Indiana Bike Tour, but he has been involved in other bike tours that have taken him across the state, such as Ride Across Indiana. This tour takes riders from Terre Haute to Richmond and is sponsored by the Bloomington Bicycle Club.
"It's really cool leaving in the morning and then seeing the Indianapolis skyline as you ride," he said.
While these trips can be challenging, Callahan agreed that they can be fun.
"You ride with friends and meet characters along the way," he said. "These people have the same compelling spirit."
To participate, cyclists must pay an entry fee that goes to support the Habitat for Humanity chapter of their choice. It costs $50 for one day, $150 for three days and $250 for the entire week. Cyclists can then get others to sponsor their trip.
Because the Lafayette chapter of Habitat for Humanity sponsors the trip, students at Purdue University get much of their fees paid. While Ball State students do not get the same deal, Taylor said they are eager to get Ball State students signed up.
Callahan encourages students to participate even if they are not that experienced in cycling.
"If you think you can't ride, you'll never know until you try," he said.
More Information
Sign up for the Cover Indiana Bike Tour: Call Taylor Callahan at 765-404-9210
To learn more about Ball State Cycling Club: Visit http://ballstatecycling.weebly.com or e-mail Callahan at cycling@bsu.edu
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