Bike the US for MS : FAQs

Featured 2010 Cyclist

Stephen French

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the trip take?
The trip covers 3,800 miles in about 60 days.

How many miles per day?
We will average about 70 miles per day.

What route do we take?
In 2011 we'll be offering more routes to accommodate cyclists that want to participate. The original route is Virginia to California along the TransAm and Western Express. New routes will include the Northern Tier & also the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route. Check out the route page for more detailed information & an interactive Google map.

How much does it cost?
Most expenses will be covered by the fundraising minimum except for food. The fundraising minimum is $1 per mile. The TransAm route is 3,785 miles so the fundraising minimum is $3,785. Occasional group meals will be provided but in general food is the most expensive part of the trip. Cost of food varies depending on whether you prepare your own meals or eat out frequently. To get an idea, spending $20 each day on food ends up being $1200 for the whole trip.

Do I need a bike?
We don't provide bikes but we can help you find one. Road or touring bikes are the best option. Road bikes are faster but aren't designed to carry the heavy loads that touring bikes are made for. Most of your belongings will be in the trailer, but it's nice to carry some things during the day so you can be more independent. We often suggest purchasing a bike that you'll be most happy with when the trip is over. Do you want a fast bike? Or would you prefer a commuter that you can load up with bags and carry heavy loads? Both kinds of bikes have been used successfully in the past.

Where do we stay at night?
Churches, fire stations, city parks, state parks, national parks and the occasional hotel. Hotels are more expensive than camping so we try to keep these stays to a minimum so that more of the raised funds can be given to MS organizations we support. You are always welcome to pay out-of-pocket for a hotel room.

How will I know where to go?
Maps will be provided that contain route information such as distances between stops, stores, restaurants and other important information. Route leaders will ride with the group and assist you if you have mechanical or other problems. The support vehicle will always be within 20 miles if you need assistance.

What happens to the money we raise?
All funds raised in 2010 will support the James Q. Miller Multiple Sclerosis clinic in Charlottesville, VA. This clinic is a part of the University of Virginia Health System, and the only MS specific clinic in the region. Cyclists will visit this clinic on June 3rd as they pass through Charlottesville. In the future we hope to expand our program and fund other clinics around the country. If you are affiliated with a clinic or program that needs funding please contact us.

Are contributions tax deductible?
Yes, our program is part of the MS Cure Fund, a 501c3 tax exempt organization with tax ID #36-4562602. For more information on how to deduct charitable contributions from your taxable income try the following links: About.com & IRS.gov. Your google checkout receipt serves as documentation for online contributions.

How do I raise the fundraising minimum?
It's easier than you think & you will find tips for fundraising on the cyclist information page once you've applied & been accepted.

What kind of camping equipment do i need?
A tent, sleeping bag and sleeping pad are the essentials.

How much training / experience does the trip require?
We ask that you ride 500 miles before the trip on the bike you plan to ride. Being comfortable in a range of riding conditions is helpful and will make the trip more enjoyable. Our riders range from no experience to cross-country veterans. Your route leaders have completed trips like this and will be more than happy to answer any questions you have.