Trip Presentation: Epic Bike Rides for the Average Cyclist: RAGBRAI, BRAG and the Tuscany Trail

  • 17 Mar 2025
  • 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
  • 40 Orchard View Blvd
  • 35

Registration

  • Please confirm if you plan to attend. This event is for members only and their guests.

Register

Trip Presentation

Epic Bike Rides for the Average Cyclist: RAGBRAI, BRAG and the Tuscany Trail

These events targets cycling enthusiasts who dream of adventure but aren’t professional racers, there are plenty of epic bike rides that offer breathtaking scenery, camaraderie, and personal challenge without requiring Tour de France-level fitness. The event is free and open to all TBN members and their guests.

Three standout events that cater to the average cyclist are RAGBRAI, BRAG, and the Tuscany Trail. 

RAGBRAI: The Ultimate Ride Across Iowa

The Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI) is the longest, largest, and oldest recreational bike tour in the world. Covering about 400–500 miles over seven days. RAGBRAI is famous for its fun-loving atmosphere, with participants enjoying live music, delicious Midwestern food (think pie and pork chops), and an unmatched community spirit.

BRAG: The Southern Charm of Cycling


The Bike Ride Across Georgia (BRAG) is a weeklong cycling event that showcases the Peach State’s charming landscapes, rolling hills, and historic towns. Each year, the route changes, allowing riders to experience different parts of Georgia, from the Appalachian foothills to the coastal plains. BRAG combines cycling with Southern hospitality, featuring well-planned rest stops, live entertainment, and a relaxed, friendly vibe.

Tuscany Trail: A Gravel Adventure Through Italy

For those looking for an international challenge, the Tuscany Trail offers a breathtaking bikepacking journey through one of Italy’s most picturesque regions. Unlike RAGBRAI and BRAG, this is an unsupported ride, meaning cyclists carry their own gear. The 500-kilometer (310-mile) route winds through rolling vineyards, medieval villages, and rugged trails, making it a dream for gravel and mountain bike enthusiasts. It’s an unforgettable mix of adventure, culture, and incredible food.

Conclusion

Whether you prefer the festival-like atmosphere of RAGBRAI, the hospitality of BRAG, or the self-supported adventure of the Tuscany Trail, each of these rides provides an unforgettable experience. In this session we will discuss the logistics of these rides and we will prove that you don’t have to be a pro to take on an epic journey—just a love for cycling and a spirit of adventure!  ‍♂️

The event takes place at The Northern District Public Library, which is  conveniently located a two-minute walk north of the Eglinton Subway station. You can find free parking on the small streets west and north of the library. Please read parking signs before parking. 

The presentation will take up 1 hour including a short Q and A, but participants are welcome to continue discussion afterward at the Duke of Kent Pub, which is across the road from the library. 

Location: 40 Orchard View Boulevard - main floor meeting room

(view map here)

Day:   Monday, March 17 

Time: 7 pm to 8 pm

Apres-Pres: Duke of Kent Pub, 2315 Yonge St.


Questions or concerns please contact Elena Balland, Membership Experience Director at experience@tbn.ca.

Contents Copyright © The Toronto Bicycling Network Inc.

Powered by Wild Apricot Membership Software