TRIKKE Tampa, Withlacoohie Trail Ride

Have we got a ride planned for this weekend! The Withlacoochie Trail is supposed to be one of the best trails in Florida. BJ Viers with First Coast Trikkers in Jacksonville, FL is rounding this ride up and asked if we'd like to participate. He's been on the trail and knows exactly where to meet with full facilities available at the Ridge Manor trail head. He's been kind enough to invite anyone and everyone that would like to join in. It looks like this weekend is really going to be beautiful so we're going to get out once again to enjoy the scenery, burn some calories and have some fun. With temps in the upper 70's it's going to be perfect Trikke weather.

Plenty of parking, restrooms and picnic area.

Like most rail-trails in Florida, the Withlacoochee State Trail is generally flat, offering an easy ride for all skill levels. Mile markers are included on the trail.

Trail Length/Surface: 46 miles, paved (asphalt, 12’ wide). We'll determine how many miles once we're at the trail. For most a 10 to 12 mile ride is average. BJ can provide recommendations once we're there. For anyone who thinks they're a beginner you will be surprised how far you can ride a Trikke once you get on the trails. If anyone wants to go further you can or you can turn around at anytime. Nobody gets left behind!

Fee: None

County: Citrus, Hernando, Pasco

Nearby Towns: Brooksville, Dunnellon

Ridge Manor Trailhead - From Interstate 75, take Exit 61 (new Exit 301) to US 98/50. Head east on US 98/50 approximately one mile to Croom Rital Road. Take a left and proceed to trailhead. Click Here for a Streets & Trips Map. I don't know the exact distance once you turn on Croom Rital Rd to the trail head but it shouldn't be far.

Two weeks ago on the Suncoast Trail it proved to be a little difficult for some due to the inclines. There weren't any complaints and I know that everyone enjoyed the workout and the ride. I also didn't realize how far we had ridden and probably went a little farther than some had expected. The Suncoast had the toll road next to most of the trail that we rode which took away from the peacefulness of the ride. From what I understand the Withlacoochie ride is going to be the best one yet. I think the Withlacoochie will be easier and most certainly more scenic.

If you plan to ride please send me an email with your name and phone number letting me know. Having this list will help ensure everyone is accounted for before the ride begins. It also helps us to notify everyone of any last minute changes that might occur. Don't forget to take my phone number with you in case something comes up so you can give us a call and let us know. We don't want to leave anyone behind.

For the riders that feel like they don't have enough experience to ride with us you shouldn't worry. We have riders of all experience levels so you won't be left behind. If you want I can work with you to help you ride better before we get started to make it more enjoyable. I'll try and be there by 11:00am. Most importantly, bring water to carry on the ride.

The picture below is from our Suncoast Trail ride on Feb. 19th. Fantastic turnout with 14 riders. One rider isn't pictured because she was very late...Nickie! ;o) Jana and I enjoyed meeting the ones who rode with us for the first time. It's also a great feeling to see so many come back and ride with us again. Click the image to enlarge.

Feel free to call me or send an email to let me know you're going to be there so we can expect you. You can reply to this email, call (813) 610-7384 or email me at andy@trikketampa.com .

April 30, 2006 - Sunday
60th Annual Beach Parade
Sunday at 2 PM
Location: Downtown Jacksonville Beach
Floats, marching bands and hometown parade to welcome the summer season.

BJ Viers with First Coast Trikkers is having a very big Trikke event at the Opening of the Beaches Parade in Jacksonville, Florida. His club is the "First Coast Trikkers" and has participated in this event for the past couple of years. He is trying to get the word out to anyone who wants to ride their Trikke in the parade. Last year he had a dozen or so ride and this year he's expecting at least 50 riders. The Trikker Gods will be there too -

Jimmie Evans - Rode a T8 Original from California to Key West, Florida. I've heard there is possibly a ride from Jacksonville to Key West. No definite plans yet, just rumors right now.

Claudio Pagan - Has been involved with Trikke for many years assisting in the development and promotion. Claudio also plans on coming to the Tampa Bay area around this time to do a ride with us locally.

Trikke Tech, INC - We don't know for sure who is coming but they are being bugged continuously to show!

Please feel free to forward this email to anyone who may be interested in our Trikke events and rides. I also have an email signup form on my website for anyone you think may be interested in receiving these newsletters and Trikke updates. Click Here to add yourself to my newsletter. Your email is only for TRIKKE Tampa use and is not given or sold to anyone.