More than 200 cyclists will pedal over 425 miles of scenic Ohio terrain in the sixth annual Great Ohio Bike Adventure July 19-26.

“All the bikers will meet in Cleveland, and then they will take a five hour bus trip to Cincinnati, where the bicycling trip starts,” said Randy Bennett, director of the Across Ohio Bike Adventure (XOBA) and an Ohio State alumnus.

Pedaling 50 to 75 miles per day, the bikers can sleep at schools, YMCAs or even pitch a tent. Bikers can also sample regional dishes at local restaurants.

“Participants have come from California, Florida, Maine and even Quebec, Canada, ranging from 10 to 78 years old. But we’d really like to see more OSU riders join us,” Bennett said.

The biking events, sustained by volunteer commitment, have increased over the past years. Columbus Outdoor Pursuits manages the XOBA, and umbrellas other activities, such as kayaking and hiking.

Each year, the bikers take a different route, relying heavily on the Ohio to Erie Bike Trail.

“Gov. Bob Taft has been fundamental in allocating a budget for the Ohio to Erie Bike Trail. It’s such a huge job to accomplish, but already 225 of the 425-mile route has been completed,” Bennett said.

During the bike voyage, committees in local towns will greet the bikers as they stop to ring bicentennial bells of different counties.

“In case of an emergency, 911 services will be utilized, as well as local squads to transport anyone requiring immediate medical attention,” Bennett said.

The OSU Cycling Club members concurred that long-distance trips are usually well organized events, offering cyclists a great opportunity to socialize.

“Long-distance tours offer a lot of assistance, and the organizers make sure you have food and shelter – they’re just really safe,” said Matt Izor, a junior in zoology and philosophy and president of the OSU Cycling Club.

Participation in the XOBA is granted on a first-come, first-serve basis, and each cyclist is obligated to a $225 fee.

In comparison to other long-distance biking tours, OSU Cycling Club member Todd Sahr finds XOBA’s rate reasonable.

“Exclusive biking tours in Colorado are around $1500, so this trip’s price is extremely affordable,” said Sahr, a junior in computer science engineering.

The OSU Cycling Club, which focuses on racing, takes part in nine to 12 competitions per school year, weather permitting.

“The purpose of our club is not only to compete, but also promote bike racing,” Izor said.

During long biking trips, such as the XOBA, cyclists may encounter inclement weather conditions, a battle Sahl frequently endures.

“I’ve been in mountain bike races with 25 pounds of mud on my bike, and I’ve even biked through snow and pounding rain.”

Physical endurance is imperative for long-distance cycling, so inexperienced bikers considering the XOBA should immediately start resistance training coupled with cardiovascular exercise.

“Even though racing bikers are usually in good shape, off weeks are great opportunities for bikers to take long-distance training rides,” Izor said.