What are you doing this weekend? We've got the perfect ride for you. But Bike to the Future is about so much more than just going for a ride: it is an opportunity for in-depth exploration of some of Portland's most innovative sustainability projects. And because of the ride's interactive elements, flat course and support along the way, this event is a great one to entice your friends and family who don't ride very often. Come on, summer is almost over - make sure those sometimes-riders get out on their bikes! The organizers have even added extra mechanics on course to so new riders are well supported.

You'll start the morning with pedal-powered fruit smoothies at Sunnyside Environmental School, where student volunteers will use their boundless energy to whip up a refreshing peach and yogurt treat especially for you. After a 28-mile ride on low-traffic streets with three destination rest stops, the course will guide you back to the school for lunch with Laughing Planet. They're bringing the most delicious fresh fixings for a make-your-own rice bowl.

This creative ride is not to be missed. Sign up before Friday at midnight and save $10, or register on the morning f the event. Portland is not afraid to think big, and this ride will highlight some of Portland's most incredible programs and projects. Be a part of the future that is happening now. Bike to the Future.

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Whether you're on the sidelines or on the course, you're going to get muddy at cyclocross - and that's part of the beauty of it. A great culture has developed around this blossoming autumnal sport that makes it equally entertaining for both spectators and racers, no matter the weather. In fact, we've got the nation's largest cyclocross races, with huge attendance and participation. Oregonians: we're not afraid of a little wet.

So slip on your boots (for plodding through the mud) and grab your cowbell (for ringing) and head on out to the Alpenrose Dairy on Sunday, October 7 for the first race of the River City Bicycles Cross Crusade Series. The Beginners and Masters 50+ categories start at 9 am and the last race of the day is at 2 pm.

Other cyclocross races are popping up around the state. Stay tuned into our blog for all the season's info.

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Battle at Barlow is held at Sam Barlow High School. This popular and classic former Cross Crusade course is best known for its challenging, railroad tie stepped run-up and long off-camber section. Two gradual climbs per lap will add to the burn, but overall the course is best described as Euro-style: fast with ample room to pass. Racers will love it as a great way to open up the season.

But it's not just about winning for the sake of winning, they've also got prizes, as in cash and trophies. There is a $300 cash payout to Cat A Men and a 100% payout for Cat A Women. Winners of other categories will get custom trophies.

OBRA membership is required for all riders. Single race memberships are available, but a season membership is only $10 and once you've done one, you'll be itching for more.

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Ahhh, the fresh peaches of late summer with sweet juicy fruit and enticing skin tones of white, rich yellow and reddish brown. Salem Bike Club has put together a ride to celebrate this delectable fruit: The Peach of a Century. The ride includes a full century and a metric century. Both routes start and end at Chemeketa Community College. The 100-mile is a nice route goes through Jefferson, Roaring River, Mehama and Stayton. The 62-mile route is generally flat and passes through Jefferson and Stayton. There are three rest stops on the 100-mile route and two on the 62-mile route. All rest stops are stocked with food, water, sports drink and provide restrooms.

The Salem Bike Club is well known for their solidly organized rides with well planned courses, but if that's not reason enough to sign up, then surely the famous finish line peach pie should get you on your bike.

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