Routes

 

The 26 mile ride is an out and back around the north end of Elk Lake through Torch River to the food stop at Crystal Beach Park. It features the same hills and flats of the other routes only less.

 

The 40 mile ride extends the 26 mile ride from the Crystal Beach Park food stop, by going east, then north through the charming village of Alden, toward Clam River, before looping back to the Crystal Beach food stop. The route will then rejoin the 26 mile route to the post ride picnic in Elk Rapids.

 

Our signature 63 mile ride circles Torch Lake passing through Eastport, Clam River, Alden and Torch River with hills, lakeside flats, and scenic countryside views. A shortcut is available that bypasses some hills and reduces the overall length to just over 50 miles.

 

All new for 2026 is the 104 mile Chain-O-Lakes Century ride that adds to the 63 mile route with extensions that include Atwood, Central Lake, Ellsworth and Bellaire. A truly epic route, it was designed with the goal of maximizing lakeside views across the entire upper chain of lakes.

Jersey Details

 

3 Styles/Fit Choices and Hem Choice

• Men's Sport Fit: This jersey tapers slightly to the waist and is designed with a more specific body contouring fit for men.
• Women’s Sport Fit: This jersey tapers to a slim fit with a slight flare at the waist and is designed with a more specific body contouring fit for women.
• Unisex Club Fit: The club cut or “relaxed fit” jersey allows for a more generous fit around the midsection. The waist does not taper on the club cut – ie., the sides are cut straight down.
  
• Hem Choice: All jerseys come standard with a Silicone Gel Injection grip, to keep from riding up for that no-slip action. Optionally, specify Non-Gel for a more relaxed fit which lays like a polo.

Standard Features

• Tailored Design with 2 diverse Lightweight Performance fabrics:
• Chest > tight weave fabric provides wind shearing, aero dynamic properties and improved moisture wicking capabilities.
• Back, Arms, Side Panel & Collar > cooling fabric provides superior breathability, engineered to move perspiration away from the body, pushing it through and off the face of the jersey where it can evaporate quickly.
• Zipper full length upgraded YKK.
• 3 Rear Pockets: Positioned for easy access while riding.
• +PLUS 1 Rear zippered security pocket for storing valuables.
• Italian inks ensure detailed, vibrant colorfast graphics that will not wash out or fade.

How to select and size your RAT Cycling Jersey

Step 1:  Select Fit (& Hem Choice, if non-Gel)

• Men's Sport Fit
• Women's Sport Fit
• Unisex Club Fit

Step 2:  Select your size using Life Behind Bars Cycling Jersey instructions:

• First, find an existing jersey that fits the way you like
• Refer to the “LBB Jersey Fit Guide.pdf” for measurement instructions
• NOTE:  ALL JERSEYS ARE MADE TO ORDER AND CAN NOT BE RETURNED OR EXCHANGED

Ride Details

 

HIGHLIGHTS

• Detailed route maps and cue sheets provided
• Roving SAG support
• Great snacks at food stops
• A wonderful catered buffet lunch at the end of the ride at Veteran’s Park in Elk Rapids. The menu includes: Burgers, Bratwurst, Vegan Veggie Burgers, Red Skin Potato Salad, Italian Pasta Salad, Creamy Coleslaw, Fresh Fruit, Black Cherry Ice Cream and Lemonade <TBR>
• Showers back at the School until 4:00 pm.
• Swimming at the Village Beach on East Bay
• Free camping the night before the ride at the School
• Pre-ride bike tech support provided at registration by Bayfront Beach and Bike
• Class 1, 2 and 3 E-bikes are welcome
• Tour profits are donated to organizations and groups that support and improve non-motorized infrastructure in our region through our grant program

SAFETY

• All riders are expected to follow the health guidelines at the time of the ride. Hand sanitizer will be readily available at all locations during the day. Cooperation with guidelines is imperative for the success and safety of the Ride Around Torch and we thank you for your efforts. 
• Helmets must be worn by all riders
• Devices that impair hearing (e.g. earbuds, headphones) are not allowed
• Riders are to obey all traffic rules and laws and to ride in a courteous and safe manner. Michigan law requires cyclists to ride as close to the right as practicable and not more than two abreast
• Children 15 and under must be accompanied by a cycling adult

START/FINISH LOCATIONS

The start location is Elk Rapids High School, 308 Meguzee Point Rd, Elk Rapids MI 49629. It is located on the east side of Elk Rapids, about 17 miles north of Traverse City off US 31. At the traffic light on US 31, turn east on Ames Street and follow the signs to the school.

 

The finish and After RAT Party location is at Veterans Memorial Park, a stunning beachfront in downtown Elk Rapids, where we enjoy the day, live music, and our delightful picnic buffet. It is less than 2 miles from the tour starting point and bike routes are marked for your return.

 

REFUND POLICY

The bike tour is a rain or shine event. Individuals may cancel their registration and request a refund up to July 6.

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Questions may be directed to ratdirector@cherrycapitalcyclingclub.org

 

Both of our one-day tours, the Ride Around Torch and the Leelanau Harvest Tour have enabled the CCCC to conduct a productive and meaningful grant program that supports bicycling projects that contribute to achieving our mission of promoting bicycling as part of a healthy lifestyle. Since 1999 the CCCC has proudly granted nearly $500,000 to local organizations pursuing projects aligned with this objective.

 

Leelanau Harvest Tour

For more cycling fun, plan to ride our stellar fall tour, the Leelanau Harvest Tour on Saturday, September 12, 2026. Starting in Sutton's Bay Michigan, this tour features the best of fall scenery along bike paths and roads, passing along lakes, beaches, apple orchards, and rolling hills.