The Cyclist’s Guide to Houston
Riding With the Pack: A Guide to Houston’s Bike Clubs
Fear not, new cyclists—you’re not alone.
Image: Shutterstock
Braving Houston streets alone can be a daunting task for rookies and skilled cyclists alike. Fortunately, the cycling scene has grown to include myriad groups devoted to all manner of rides. Whether you’re into socializing, training or exploring—whatever your skill and commitment level—there’s a pack of cyclists out there waiting for you.
Bayou Bikers
Vibe: A partly off-road ride exploring the beauty of the bayous
When: First Sunday of the month, 8 a.m.
Starting point: Market Square Park
Ride: Slow, 25-40 miles, mountain bike or equivalent recommended
Info: downtownhouston.org/calendar/bayou-bikers
Blue Line Bike Ride
Vibe: A serious training ride that keeps a consistent route—great if you’re working on your times
When: Wednesdays, 7 p.m.
Starting Point: Blue Line Bike Lab, 3302 White Oak Dr.
Ride: Divided into two groups of riders. Group A travels 30 miles at speeds of up to 26 mph. Group B travels 23 miles at a more moderate pace.
Info: bikehouston.org/weekly-rides-beta/blue-line-wednesday-ride
Bohemeo’s Bad Ass Bike Ride
Vibe: Kinda short, kinda slow, lots of fun
When: Thursdays, 7 p.m.
Starting point: Bohemeo’s, 708 Telephone Rd.
Ride: 12-15 mph for 12-15 miles except on the first Thursday, when the ride speeds up to 16-18 mph and hits the local hills, a.k.a. bridges.
Info: facebook.com/groups/106062032876910
Critical Mass
Vibe: The controversy-loving granddaddy of all group rides
When: Last Friday of the month, 7:15 p.m.
Starting point: Market Square Park
Ride: About 20 miles, super slow and social
Info: facebook.com/groups/MassHouston
Crucial Matter
Vibe: Ride. Eat. Party.
When: First Fridays (known as Tour de Tacos), third Fridays (Raspas & Elotes), 6:45 p.m.
Starting point: Market Square Park
Ride: About 15 miles, casual pace
Info: facebook.com/groups/crucialmatter
HTX Bike Social
Vibe: A smaller, faster version of Critical Mass
When: Second Friday of the month, 7:20 p.m.
Starting point: Varies, usually Whole Foods Market—Montrose, 701 Waugh Dr.
Ride: 18-24 miles at cruising speed with a themed mid-point stop
Info: facebook.com/groups/htxbike
Karbach Brews Cruise
Vibe: A bar crawl by bike
When: First Monday of the month, 7 p.m.
Starting point: Varies; ride hits two bars and then Karbach Brewing Co.
Ride: Good for all skill levels at 11-12 mph
Info: karbachbrewing.com/tours/brews-cruise
Toxic Shocks
Vibe: A twice-weekly ride just for the ladies
When: Mondays and Wednesdays, 7 p.m.
Starting point: Carnegie Vanguard High School, 1501 Taft St.
Ride: 15-20 miles at a “brisk but casual” pace
