Saturday Rides

Our weekly signature ride, and one of the largest weekly group rides in Portland. Distances range from just over 30 miles to the occasional metric century (100 km, or approximately 62 miles). Most Saturday rides are between 40-50 miles, and most have a shorter option.

Routes vary from week to week. Some routes are relatively flat, while others climb. We ride rain or shine. Fenders with “buddy flaps” are required when the roads are wet. With the popularity of indoor cycling apps, the attendance on rainy days has decreased significantly.

Each Saturday we divide into speed groups, see ‘Choosing the Right Speed Group’ to the right. Faster groups leave first. Each group is led by an experienced ride leader who is responsible for keeping the group together and safe on the road, and who will assist with roadside emergencies. Riders are responsible for joining the correct speed group. A rider who is struggling to stay with the group can always drop back and join a slower group.

Riders are expected to be self-sufficient on the road. Print the cue sheet or load the route on your bicycle computer or smartphone. Bring adequate food and hydration, at least one spare tube, a pump or CO₂inflation system, and a basic tool kit. Riders should be able to change a flat tire and perform other simple roadside repairs.

Saturday rides start and end at 6725 NW Evergreen Parkway, in Hillsboro. We roll out at 9:00 am sharp. Arrive early so you are prepared to roll out on time.

Riders under 18 years old must be accompanied by parent or guardian and submit a special printed and signed waiver available via the Portland Velo Contact page to ride with Portland Velo.

Choosing the Right Speed Group

Groups are organized by speed ranges. Speed ranges are not the same as the “average speed” on your bike computer at the end of a ride. Many factors can affect average speed, including terrain, weather, traffic signals, and regroups. Choose a speed group based on the speed you can maintain on your own on flat terrain for a period of time. If in doubt, choose a slower speed group until you find the right group for your skill and fitness level. Ride leaders can assist you in choosing the right speed group.

Portland Velo Speed Groups

14-16 mph (Not available on all Saturday rides)
This group rides at a steady pace and stops to regroup. An excellent choice for those new to group riding or those working on their fitness. Riders should be able to ride 40 miles in 3.5 hours. Class 1 and Class 3 E-bikes (pedal assist without a throttle) are allowed in this group. Availability depends on having a ride leader for this group.
16-18 mph
This group rides at a steady pace with riders drafting off each other to improve efficiency, and stops to regroup as directed by the ride leader. Riders should be able to consistently ride at 16-18 mph on flat terrain. Class 1 and Class 3 E-bikes (pedal assist without a throttle) are allowed in this group.

18-20 mph
A moderately fast-paced group where skills and expectations ramp up. This group rides in a paceline for much of the route. Riders must be comfortable and proficient riding in a paceline. Regroup points are determined by the ride leader. Class 1 and Class 3 E-bikes (pedal assist without a throttle) are allowed in this group.
20-22 mph
Riders must be able to ride smoothly and confidently in a tight and often rotating paceline. Riders must be able to climb well and communicate effectively with other riders. Good bike-handling skills are just as important as being fit enough to ride at this pace. No E-bikes of any class are allowed in this group.
22-24 mph
A spirited group with speeds in the mid- to high 20s. Riders must be able to climb and descend well and have excellent bike-handling skills. Riders should anticipate hard efforts and few regrouping stops. No E-bikes of any class are allowed in this group.