Eastown Alleycat & Kids Rodeo

Join us for the Eastown Alleycat & Kids’ Bike Rodeo!

Kick off the day with the Kids’ Bike Rodeo, running from 10 AM to Noon at the Calvin Church parking lot (700 Ethel Ave SE). Kids can enjoy a fun obstacle course and skill stations where they’ll practice stopping, turning, signaling, and navigating through obstacles. Plus, they can get creative at our bike decorating station, where they can add some flair to their ride before hitting the course!

Afterward, gear up for the Alleycat Bicycle Scavenger Hunt around Uptown! Grab your bike, helmet, and camera, and get ready for a thrilling hunt through the city. At 11:45 AM, you’ll receive your manifest with clues, giving you 15 minutes to plan your route before the race starts at Noon. The race will run from Noon to 2 PM, and you’ll have two hours to track down all the stops.

Choose your own route and ride at your pace. Whether you’re in it to win or just for the fun of it, the adventure is yours! Prizes will be awarded to the top 5 fastest riders who complete all the stops, and a prize for our last place finisher who makes it to every stop!

After the hunt, meet us at Harmony Brewing (1551 Lake Drive) for an after-party and awards ceremony!

A huge thank you to our sponsors:

Uptown Grand Rapids

Calvin Christian Reformed Church

Grand Rapids Bicycle Company

Johnny D's Bike Bags

Velocity USA

The Alleycat is open to riders aged 12 and up, with anyone under 18 required to ride with an adult.

Pre-registration is required for the Alleycat Race.

Registration will close two days prior to the event on October 17th.

Alleycat Check-In begins at 11am in the Calvin Church Parking lot (700 Ethel Ave SE).

Helmets are strongly encouraged for all participants.

Traffic Riding Rules

1. Obey Traffic Laws: Even though it’s a race, all participants must follow the traffic laws (stop at red lights, yield to pedestrians, etc.).
2. Stay in Bike Lanes (if available): Use the designated bike lanes where they exist to stay safe and avoid disrupting vehicular traffic.
3. Yield to Cars and Pedestrians: Be cautious when crossing streets, and always yield to cars and pedestrians. Avoid cutting through heavy traffic.
4. Ride Predictably: Sudden lane changes or stops can cause accidents. Ride in a straight line when possible and signal your intentions.
5. No Blocking Traffic: Keep intersections and major thoroughfares clear. Don’t block traffic, even when stopping for a checkpoint.
6. Helmet Required: For your safety, helmets are mandatory.
7. No Dangerous Maneuvers: Avoid weaving between cars or riding on sidewalks (unless absolutely necessary). Stick to the road and bike paths.
8. Stay Alert at All Times: Watch for road hazards like potholes, parked cars, and doors opening unexpectedly.
9. Respect Checkpoints: All riders must stop at designated checkpoints, get their stamps, and continue on their way

Traffic Riding Tips

1. Be Visible: Wear bright colors or reflective gear to make sure you're seen, especially at intersections. Use front and rear lights if riding in low light.
2. Use Hand Signals: Always signal before turning or stopping to communicate your intentions to drivers and other cyclists.
3. Make Eye Contact with Drivers: This can help ensure that drivers see you before turning or merging into traffic.
4. Ride with the Flow of Traffic: Always ride in the same direction as the traffic, not against it.
5. Check for Blind Spots: Before changing lanes or making turns, check over your shoulder to ensure it's clear.
6. Take the Lane When Necessary: In some cases, it’s safer to “take the lane” rather than ride close to the curb, especially when the lane is too narrow to share.
7. Be Extra Cautious at Intersections: Most cycling accidents happen at intersections, so slow down and be prepared to stop even if you have the right of way.
8. Avoid Distractions: Keep your focus on the road. Avoid using headphones or anything that can block your awareness of your surroundings.
9. Communicate with Fellow Riders: If riding in a group, alert others to potential hazards like cars, pedestrians, or road conditions.
10. Maintain Your Bike: Ensure your brakes, tires, and gears are in good condition before the race to avoid mechanical failures.

Host or Publisher Eastown Community Association