The Old Art Building in Leland will host its inaugural Community Tweed Ride on Saturday, May 4, from 2-4 pm. The free event is sponsored by Suttons Bay Bikes, Dam Candy Store, Cherry Republic and the Leland Lodge. A Tweed Ride is a leisurely, non-competitive bicycle ride where participants don vintage-inspired clothing, often featuring tweed fabrics, plus fours, bowties, and other attire reminiscent of the early 20th century.
In Leelanau County, kids who do not have access to a bike now have options, thanks to groups like Bike Leelanau, Northport Strong, and Norte, and the generous support of local businesses like McLain Cycles and Suttons Bay Bikes. The new Leelanau County Bike Library now makes it easy for ANY family to borrow a bike and get their kids rolling, just by filling out a simple form online.
The morning heat was starting to sizzle as I escaped into the shade of the woods. I was just south of Suttons Bay on the TART trail pedaling north towards a dunk in the lake and a hearty breakfast. Dappled sun bounced off the clean pavement ahead as I shifted gears for more speed, energized by a cool breeze and the sight of the exit for Hop Lot.
A local nonprofit aims to bring brand new, eco-conscious multi-use trails and a bolstered mountain bike community to Leelanau County, to provide more outdoor activity options for people of all ages, and to help locals rediscover the natural wonders in their own backyard.