The Ride

The formal start time is 7:00 AM, but you're welcome to start earlier if you prefer. Check-in at the start runs 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM, so give yourself a few extra minutes if you still need your hangtag.

You have to check in one of the two days, but you choose which. Friday pickup is 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Sports Basement Presidio, and it makes your morning a lot easier. If you can't make it, check in at the start on ride day between 5:00 AM to 8:00 AM instead.

Yes, every rider signs one at check-in. It only takes a minute, but it's the reason you can't send a friend to grab your packet: the signature has to be yours.

It's the tag that goes on your bike, and it's how our SAG drivers, aid station volunteers, and course marshals know you're one of our registered riders. If you're out there without one, we don't know to look after you. Everyone gets one at packet pickup or at morning check-in.

At check-in, same as your hangtag, whether you come Friday or on ride morning. The exception is riders who paid to have their order shipped, since that gear goes straight to your door and there's nothing waiting for you here. Grabbing it Friday means you're not carrying a box around at 5 AM.

No. Every rider signs a waiver at check-in, so it has to be you in person. That's true whether you come Friday or on ride morning, and it applies to groups too: everyone needs to come to the table themselves.

Yes! E-bikes are welcome on both routes. We embrace all forms of cycling.

Yes! Both routes are identical for the first 35 miles. At the decision point, you can simply keep riding if you want to do the full circumnavigation. There's no additional cost or logistics, just keep pedaling!

No worries! We have SAG (Support and Gear) vehicles on the course. If you need to stop for any reason, our support team will help you get back safely.

Bring your bike (in good working condition), helmet, water bottles, and any nutrition you prefer. We provide aid stations with snacks and water along the route. Dress in layers, because Bay Area weather can change!

Yes! Sports Basement Presidio offers bike rentals. Since we start and finish there, it's the perfect place to pick up a rental bike for the day.

The route features moderate terrain with rolling hills and some sustained climbs. It's challenging but achievable. 65% of first-time riders go farther than they ever have before!

No, this is not a race! The Bay Ride is a supported charity ride. Ride at your own pace, enjoy the scenery, and soak in the experience.

Two great hotels sit inside the Presidio itself, less than a mile from the start line: the Lodge at the Presidio and the Inn at the Presidio. Both include breakfast, which helps with the early rollout. See the full where-to-stay guide.

Richmond closes at 10:30 AM, Oakland closes at 12:00 PM, Newark closes at 2:00 PM, San Jose closes at 4:00 PM, Woodside closes at 6:30 PM, Pacifica closes at 8:00 PM. Each station packs up at its closing time, so plan your pace to reach one before it does. If you arrive at Woodside after 6:00 PM, a volunteer will point you toward the quickest way back.

That's what SAG is for. If a station has closed or you'd rather not finish the route, our support vehicles will get you and your bike back safely. Nobody gets stranded. The finish line stays open until 10:00 PM.