Bike Tour: Trails, No Tribulations

Most cycling events geared to the bike-riding public really pile on the miles--25, 50, even 100 or more.

The annual Newport Beach Bike Tour, in contrast, keeps the pace slow and the mileage low, giving children and beginning riders a chance to take part without being left in the dust.

At nine miles, Sunday’s event is less an endurance test than a chance to sample some of the best local biking areas. But familiarizing riders with the city’s trail system is just one goal of the event’s organizers, the Newport Beach Bicycle Committee, which is active in cycling issues in the city and reports to the City Council.

Another goal is to stress helmet use and other safety issues, said event organizer Joe DeCarlo. Toward this aim, Sprocket Woman, a costumed character who visits area schools promoting bicycle safety, will be on hand at Sunday’s event.

“The ride itself is a very leisurely ride, so just about anyone can do it,” DeCarlo said. “People ride at their own pace.”

The ride winds around Upper Newport Bay on mostly level ground, taking in parts of Backbay Drive and bike paths in the area.

“It’s just designed as a fun event, and it’s all free,” said event spokeswoman Barbara Gaughran. Event entry, refreshments and even T-shirts will be given away. There will also be door prizes, along with clinics on bike safety and maintenance.

“It’s just a very festive atmosphere,” Gaughran said.

About 400 riders, from children to seniors, took part in last year’s event, DeCarlo said. The ride begins at the Newport Dunes Resort.

*

The first stretch of the new Foothill tollway will open Saturday, but before it’s turned over to cars, runners will get a chance to try out the newly laid tollway. The onetime event, dubbed “Cruise the Corridor,” will also take runners on a new extension of Portola Parkway, which links to the tollway. When completed, the tollway will stretch from Tustin to San Clemente.

A half-marathon and 5K will begin at 7:30 a.m.; a 10K follows at 8:30 a.m., and a 1K fun run for kids at 10 a.m. The 3.2-mile tollway is near Portola and Alton parkways in the community of Foothill Ranch, east of Lake Forest. Entry (including T-shirt) is $15 for the 1K, $20 for all other events. Race-day registration begins at 6 a.m. Information: (714) 557-3388, Ext. 444.

What: Newport Beach Bike Tour.

When: Sunday, Oct. 17, at 10 a.m.

Where: Newport Dunes Resort, 1131 Backbay Drive, Newport Beach.

Whereabouts: From Pacific Coast Highway in Newport Beach, go north on Jamboree Road and turn left on Backbay Drive. Newport Dunes is on the left.

Wherewithal: Free.

Where to call: (714) 644-3311.