Starting at Smolak Farm in North Andover, the routes pass through beautiful quiet forests and along ponds on the back roads of Bradford, Groveland, Boxford, and North Andover. Terrain is gently rolling with a couple of “refreshing” climbs, particularly Uptack Rd.
Riders can choose 1 of 3 routes- 24, 32, or 41 miles, that we offer on Wednesday AMs, starting May 10, at 10AM. (9AM in the heat of July, returning to 10AM in September). The group averages a 12-14 mph pace and is no-drop. Each route’s 1/2 way point is the Boxford police station, and those who wish can take a 4 mile escape route from the BPD returning directly to Smolak
Lunch is at the Smolak Farm Stand following the ride where a variety of fresh muffins, sandwiches, and coffee are available. Riders typically eat and socialize at the outdoor tables. These ride options provide training for the longer rides in the fall, such as the NSC Century, Cycle for Shelter, Seacoast Century and others.
... offers something for everyone in the riding season.
Hillary Benson's Ponds and Forests from Smolak on Wednesday Morning covers paces up to the mid 14's on beautiful routes.
The Wednesday Morning Rotating Ride is usually ridden at a 15 mph minimum though some ride it slower. It is a great ride to help improve your pace on some of NSC's finest routes. There is one route each week with 30 miles as the out of/early season distance and 40 or so as the in season distance. The ride is followed with lunch, usually at the restaurant the ride starts from.
Both groups are very inviting and at their peaks will have 20 or more riders each.
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