Windsor Tweed Ride Returns

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The annual Tweed Ride takes over the streets of Windsor again on Saturday, May 7th, with an expected 300 to 500 participants taking part.

Cyclists, dressed in their finest tweeds and old-time clothes, will leisurely take in some the city’s finest parks landmarks celebrating the best of the previous rides since 2012.

This years ride has a new registration at the riverfront park at the foot of Askin Avenue. From there the ride will go along the city’s riverfront bike paths, for a lunch break at Rino’s Kitchen, then winding through city streets and parks, with a photo-op at Willistead Manor, before culminating at the inaugural Windsor Little British Festival in Sandwich Towne behind Rock Bottom, Westside Foods and the soon to open Sandwich Brewery.

“We’ve been blown away, not only by the event’s growth in popularity, but by how many participants put in so much effort into their dress and their bicycles,” said Windsor Tweed Ride organizer and co-founder Stephen Hargreaves. “It’s such a great way to promote cycling in an apolitical and friendly way while having a great time, meeting new people with great local food, drink, and music … all while enjoying our city.”

The Windsor event began in 2012 saw over 350 participants from Windsor; Essex County; Detroit; London, and beyond last year.

Any efforts by participants to recreate the “spirit of a bygone era” will be appreciated, and while all bicycles are acceptable, vintage bicycles are encouraged, and Penny Farthings are especially welcome.

Riders will have the opportunity to win a new bicycle, handmade in Windsor, from SGC Bicycles, a Detroit Bikes ‘A-Type’ also handmade, but this time in Detroit. Additional prizes will be awarded in several categories, including Best Dressed Gent, Finest Dressed Lady, and Best Bicycle.

“We’ve really made a special effort for this one, with great partners and sponsors, and the collaboration with the British Festival is really going to make this year extra special,” said Hargreaves.

Admission is $15 with proceeds supporting Bike Friendly Windsor-Essex, which includes entry into the Windsor Little British Festival.