BAM 2026 Rider Letter

Thank you for registering for the BAM 2026 tour. We’re excited that you will join us!

Please read this Rider Guide thoroughly prior to arriving in Detroit Lakes, MN for all ride details including rider check in, luggage requirements, opt-in for text messages, meals and more.

SAFETY

Helmet – You are required to wear a helmet at all times when riding your bicycle on BAM.

Earbuds, Headphones and Cell Phones – You are prohibited from wearing earbuds and headphones while riding on BAM.  Please stop your bicycle and pull off the road to use your cell phone. This is to preserve everyone’s safety.

Your Bicycle – Please make sure your bicycle is in good working order prior to the ride. We highly recommend bringing your bike into your local bike shop for a tune up if it’s been awhile since it’s been serviced.

Personal Support Vehicles – No unofficial (non BAM volunteer) support vehicles are allowed on the route for safety reasons. Only registered participants are allowed to camp or participate in meals or other activities.

Safe Bicycling – riders are expected to follow the rules of the road.

Follow the law and ride as far to the right as is safe and obey all traffic signs and signals.
Be predictable – Signal your intentions so drivers and other riders know your intentions; ride two abreast only when you are not obstructing traffic.
Be conspicuous – Wear bright, visible clothing and use lights and reflectors in low light and be sure you can be seen.
Communicate your intentions (i.e. slowing, stopping, turning) with other riders and drivers.
Use standard bicycling etiquette:
- Call out ‘car back’ to surrounding riders
- Call out ‘on your left’ to alert a rider you intend to pass.
- Point out potholes, glass, sand, and any other hazards to those riding behind you.
Be careful crossing railroad tracks, especially in wet conditions. Cross them at a 90-degree angle. Angled tracks are a risk for injuries on bikes. When in doubt, dismount from your bike and walk across.
Tactics to use if you encounter a dog:
- Do not panic and do not try to kick the dog.
- If necessary, stop and dismount your bike and put your bike between yourself and the dog.
- If the dog seems aggressive and is chasing, yell firmly at the dog. Yelling “NO” or “GO HOME” in a commanding voice typically works well.
- If you can do so safely, spray them in the face with your water bottle.
Think ahead – Pay attention to other riders and traffic on the road; anticipate their actions.
Ride ready – make sure both you and your bike are in good working order before the ride.

Rules of the Road – To help ensure the safety of all riders, riders are expected to adhere to Minnesota’s rules of the road. Bicycle safety information and laws can be found on MnDOT’s website. Please watch this seven-minute safety video prior to the ride:  NTSHA’s Bicycle Safety Tips for Adults

Daylight – The sun rises about 6:15 AM and sets about 8 PM. If you plan to ride before daylight or after dark please bring lights.

STARTING THE TOUR

Rider Check-In – Rider check-in is at Becker County Fairgrounds (1310 Rossman Ave, Detroit Lakes, MN) on Wednesday, August 12, from 4:30 – 7:30 pm and again on Thursday, August 13, from 6:15-7:00 am. This is the same location used for Wednesday and Thursday evening camping.

At check-in you will receive your rider meal ticket wristband, e-bike charging label (if relevant), t-shirt (if you registered before the early bird cut-off), and a jersey if you ordered one. Each participant must check in and show a valid driver’s license/government-issued ID; you are not allowed to check-in for someone else. You will not be receiving paper route maps. If you wish to have paper maps, please print prior to arriving.

Long-Term Parking: Free long-term parking is available at start/end location – Becker County Fairgrounds. The address is 1310 Rossman Ave, Detroit Lakes, MN.

Do not leave valuables in your vehicle and make sure all items are out of sight.

Camping in Detroit Lakes –The Wednesday and Thursday evening camping location is Becker County Fairgrounds (1310 Rossman Ave, Detroit Lakes, MN) starting at 4:30 pm on August 12th. Please do not start setting up your tent before 4:30 pm. The permit for camping in Detroit Lakes requires us to follow campsite space guidelines. BAM Campground hosts will be available to answer questions about where you can set up tents.

Meals in Detroit Lakes – There are several dining options in Detroit Lakes and the surrounding communities. There will also be a beverage tent and live music at the campground Wednesday evening.

Pre-Ride Meeting– The pre-ride meeting will be held Wednesday, August 12 at 7:30 pm at the campground. Important information about the ride will be shared and you can meet the staff and volunteers who will be supporting you on the tour. The information will be repeated on Thursday, August 13 at 6:45 am during breakfast. Please attend whichever session works best for you.

LUGGAGE

Weight Limits and Number of Bags - Riders are allowed TWO SOFT SIDED duffel bags, neither to exceed 35 pounds each.  Do not pack all your gear into one bag that exceeds the weight limit. If your bags are overweight, you will be asked to repack so that your bag(s) do not exceed 35 pounds each. Adhere to these weight and quantity limits to ensure that all bags fit into the luggage truck and to protect our volunteers from injury. All belongings must be inside the bags with no tie-ons.  If you bring a chair, it must fit inside one of your two bags. If you are hoteling, please limit your luggage to one bag.

A scale will be available Wednesday evening at check-in if you would like to pre-weigh your bags to ensure they meet the weight limit.

Luggage Weighing – Bags will be weighed by BAM personnel Friday morning starting at 6:30 am.

Loading Luggage – Riders must load their own luggage onto the truck each morning. The luggage truck will be available from 6:30-8:00 am.  If you arrive at the luggage truck before it is open, do not leave your luggage on the ground next to the truck, it will not be loaded for you.

Luggage Tag with Your Name – Please have your contact information on a label or tag on each of your bags.  

Rain – BAM makes every attempt to keep bags dry, but to ensure clothing and sleeping bags stay dry, pack items in plastic bags.

Luggage for hoteliers – BAM transports luggage to and from these hotels:

Fergus Falls – The Mill Hotel
Perham:
- Grandstay Hotel & Suites
- Super 8

These are the only hotels that BAM services. Riders who wish to stay elsewhere will be responsible for getting their luggage to and from their lodging property. One option is to bring a small backpack to carry what you need for your overnight stay and bike to your lodging property.

If you are staying in a hotel on Thursday evening in Detroit Lakes, please bring your bag with you when you park in long-term parking for weighing prior to loading on the luggage truck.

We close the luggage truck at night and you can leave your luggage bag on the truck at night. Bags left in the luggage truck overnight will be taken out first thing in the morning so that they are accessible.

Due to safety and state regulations, RVs are not allowed at the campsites or on the route.

CAMPING

Camping – Camping locations are as follows:
•   Wednesday, Aug 12 and Thursday, Aug 13: Becker County Fairgrounds in Detroit Lakes

•   Friday, Aug 14: Kirkbride Park in Fergus Falls

•   Saturday, Aug 15 East Otter Tail Fairgrounds in Perham

BAM Campground Hosts – BAM campground hosts will be on hand to answer questions in each town. Some parks have guidelines about where tents can be set up. Please ask a BAM volunteer if you have questions.

Showers During the Ride – Pork Belly Ventures (PBV) will operate a shower truck every day of the ride. The truck will be located near the campground. PBV will provide a fresh towel daily free of charge, so there is no need to pack a towel. This service will begin Wednesday evening in Detroit Lakes and end Sunday afternoon in Detroit Lakes.

Coffee – Pork Belly Ventures will also provide fresh coffee at the campsite each morning for all riders. A reusable mug is a good item to bring.

Electronic Device Charging Stations – Charging stations will be available at each campground. It is a good idea to put your name on your devices, cords, and chargers. Address labels work well for this.

Beverage Tent and Music– There will be a beverage tent at the campground daily along with live music. Credit cards may not be accepted, so please bring CASH.

Massages and Yoga: Massage therapists will be available Thursday-Saturday from 1:00 – 7:00 pm with pre-booking available. To guarantee your spot, please contact Ashley Guillaume, LMT, at ashley@pkbelly.com or 515-710-2273 (email preferred). Massage rates are $50 for 30 minutes, $70 for 45 minutes or $90 for 60 minutes. Pay your therapist after each massage session. CASH only. Please bring a twin sheet or towel for your massage session.

Afternoon yoga will be available also. Please bring a yoga mat or a beach towel if it is easy to pack.

MEALS AND REST STOPS

Meals and Rest Stops – Four breakfasts, one lunch and three dinners are provided. On the last day, only breakfast is provided. Meals are served by a combination of caterers and local groups. If you have dietary restrictions, please review the menus carefully and plan your fueling needs accordingly. Here are the menus:

Thursday, August 13 | Breakfast – Detroit Lakes

Fresh seasonal fruit
Greek vanilla yogurt parfait with house-made gluten-free granola
Cappuccino overnight oats (GF)
Assorted bagels and spreads
Sausage, egg, and cheese croissant
Egg bites – two varieties: “Original” with wild rice, feta, and roasted red pepper; “Garden” with tomato, broccoli, spinach, and Swiss cheese (GF)
Bacon

Thursday, August 13 | Dinner – Detroit Lakes

Garlic and herb chicken
Roasted pork loin with pineapple and mango chutney
Roasted baby red potatoes
Vegetable medley
Dinner salad and roll
Assorted Cupcakes

Friday, August 14 | Breakfast – Detroit Lakes

Fresh seasonal fruit
Greek vanilla yogurt parfait with house-made gluten-free granola
Seasonal-flavor overnight oats (GF)
Assorted bagels and spreads
Sausage, egg, and cheese croissant
Egg bites – two varieties: “Original” with wild rice, feta, and roasted red pepper; “Garden” with tomato, broccoli, spinach, and Swiss cheese (GF)
Bacon
Bananas

Friday, August 14 | Lunch

Grilled burgers with option to add bacon, cheese, lettuce, tomato, and onion
Gluten-free buns available
Black bean burgers
Fries
Fresh fruit
Homemade cookies

Friday, August 14 | Dinner – Fergus Falls

Quinoa pilaf
Creamy garlic chicken
Falafel
Seasonal Vegetable
Spicy sambal sauce
Mixed green salad
Bread service
Pumpkin bars with cheesecake frosting

Saturday, August 15 | Breakfast – Fergus Falls

Egg scramble bowl with spinach, organic long-grain rice, sauteed zucchini, onion, and mushrooms
Farmer’s potatoes
Sausage
Fruit and grab-and-go fruit
Bread service
Bananas
Oatmeal

Saturday, August 15 | Dinner – Perham

Honey and garlic chicken
State Fair meatballs
Roasted sweet potatoes with maple Dijon sauce
Roasted vegetable medley
Garden salad and dinner roll
Assorted cheesecakes

Sunday, August 16 | Breakfast – Perham

Fresh seasonal fruit
Greek vanilla yogurt parfait with house-made gluten-free granola
Seasonal-flavor overnight oats (GF)
Assorted bagels and spreads
Sausage, egg, and cheese croissant
Egg bites – two varieties: “Original” with wild rice, feta, and roasted red pepper; “Garden” with tomato, broccoli, spinach, and Swiss cheese (GF)
Bacon
Bananas

Vegan Meals – BAM tries to have meal choices that accommodate a variety of dietary needs. BAM will have vegetarian meals, which will only be available to riders who signed up for vegan meals per the online meal survey. Your choice will be indicated on your rider wristband.

Meal Ticket-Wristband – Your wristband also serves as your meal ticket. Servers at the front of the food line will mark off your wristband for each meal. You will not be able to go through the line again unless there is extra food at the end of the meal. DO NOT LOSE YOUR WRISTBAND. No wristband=no meals.

Rest Stops -Supported rest stops are not provided on this ride, however, the ride travels through small towns every 20-30 miles where you can purchase a snack from a convenience store or other local establishment. 

COMMUNICATIONS

Daily Ride Briefings – Daily ride briefings will be held each evening to go over the route for the following day and answer any questions. The first ride briefing will be held Wednesday night at 7:30 pm in Detroit Lakes and repeated again on Thursday morning at 6:45 am during breakfast. Please attend whichever session works best for you. Ride briefings for Thursday-Saturday will be at 6 pm at the campground.

Communications during the tour – BAM will be utilizing the BAND app to communicate important weather, emergency, route and schedule information during the tour. The BAND app will also contain daily schedules and RWGPS routes.

BAND app:
Joining BAND

The 2026 BAM Bike Tour will be utilizing the “Band” Application for one way communication updates related to the tour for both riders and volunteers this year. Click the link below to be directed to your application store to download the application and join the group.

https://band.us/n/aca1b2c3V4R4O

To turn on notifications for this application you will need to click the settings option which will take you to your profile to update settings.

Steps to enable BAND app notifications:

1.  In the BAND app:

Open the BAND app and go to the More tab (usually represented by your profile picture). 
Tap on Settings. 
Select Push Notifications. 
Check if Pause or Repeat Do Not Disturb is enabled and disable it if you want to receive notifications. 
Ensure that notifications for Posts, Comments, and Chat are turned on.

2.  Check your device’s notification settings:

Go to your phone’s Settings app. 
Tap on Notifications. 
Find and tap on BAND. 
Make sure notifications are turned ON for the app.

3.  BAM Information – BAM Contacts, Daily Schedules, RWGPS Links

Inside the BAND App tap the Info headings link
Tap on files
Tap on one of the folders below and tap on the file you wish to open
– BAM 2026 Contacts
– BAM 2026 Daily Routes
– BAM 2026 Daily Schedules

4.  BAM Information – During the tour, please share your photos with everyone

Inside the BAND App tap the Albums headings link
Tap on the upload photo button
Select the photos you wish to upload
Click on the Done link
Select Upload

Facebook Communications – To connect with other riders prior to the ride to arrange carpools or ask questions not covered in the Rider Guide, please use our Facebook page or email bammarcomm@gmail.com. Please be patient for a response as a BAM volunteer will field these messages.

RIDING

Wednesday pre-tour ride – If you arrive early, you’re welcome to join a 21‑mile unsupported pre‑tour ride departing from People’s Park at 2:30 pm on Wednesday, August 12. People’s Park (1310 Phinney Ave) is across from the Becker County Fairgrounds, our camping location. The route is included in the Event link, and riders may complete it at any time on Wednesday.

Maps – RidewithGPS (RWGPS) files and pdf maps/cue sheets are accessible below. We will not be providing paper maps/cue sheets. If you wish to have paper copies, please print them at home.

Click here to access the RWGPS files for the BAM 2026 ride, or use the QR code below.

PDF Map Links for Download – Please print if you would like a copy

Wednesday – Day 0 – 21 mile Detroit Lakes Loop
Thursday – Day 1 – 32 mile Detroit Lakes Loop (Short)
Thursday – Day 1 – 53 mile Detroit Lakes Loop (Medium)
Thursday – Day 1 – 62 mile Detroit Lakes Loop (Long)
Friday – Day 2 – Detroit Lakes to Fergus Falls (58 miles)
Saturday – Day 3 – Fergus Falls to Perham (63 miles)
Sunday – Day 4 – Perham to Detroit Lakes (36 miles)

Route Markings – The route will be marked with directional arrows on the pavement. There will be 3 arrows per turn: 1 before the turn, 1 at the turn, and 1 after the turn (confirmation arrow).

Start and End Times – Please plan to be on the route no earlier than 7 a.m. and no later than 8 a.m. Lunch times and SAG support are based on this schedule. SAG services end at 3:00 pm; please plan to be finished riding by 3:00 pm. On Sunday, Aug 16, the SAG support ends at noon.

SAG Service – Support Assistant Group (SAG) vehicles, marked with BAM signs, will be roaming the route daily from 7:30 am – 3:00 pm or until the last rider completes the course, whichever comes first. SAG support will provide assistance to riders for injuries or mechanical problems that cannot be repaired on the road. SAG support will not be available as a transport for tired riders or e-bike riders whose batteries have run out of power. Personal SAGs are not allowed on the route.

Mechanical Support – Freewheel Bike will provide basic mechanical support along the route and at the campsite. They will not be able to make major repairs. Please make sure your bike is in good working order before the tour, and bring a couple spare tubes that match your wheel size. The mechanic will not charge for service, but please leave a tip in the tip jar. They will also sell parts, tires and tubes.

Activities throughout the Tour – This year’s tour will have several local points of interest/activities, so please plan to enjoy the local entertainment.

Weather – Temperatures in the area can be variable. It may be hot and humid or it may be cool in the mornings and evenings such that you may want to bring arm and knee warmers or a jacket. Mornings can be foggy so bring front and rear lights. If dangerous weather or air-quality issues arise, we will send alerts via the BAND app (see Inclement Weather and Emergency Recommendations below). You may want to bring an N95 mask with you. All campgrounds have emergency shelters.

ENDING THE TOUR

On Sunday, August 16, the final day of the tour, SAG support will end at noon and the tour will officially conclude at 2:00 p.m. Any luggage remaining after 2:00 p.m. will not be monitored.

Please plan to complete your ride, shower and collect your luggage before 2:00 p.m.

PHOTO SHARING

We LOVE photos of BAM rides/riders. Please use the BAND App to upload your photos during the tour. Instructions for doing so will be posted on August 9.

If you use social media, please tag us on Facebook (@Bicycling Around Minnesota) and/or Instagram (#bambicycling).

INCLEMENT WEATHER AND EMERGENCY RECOMMENDATIONS

In case of severe weather (thunderstorms, tornado, flooding, bad air quality, etc.), BAM will notify participants of any dangerous conditions we are aware of. Our priority is everyone’s safety! If bad weather arrives, seek shelter in a safe location until dangerous conditions no longer exist.

Here are a few scenarios:

Lightning on Route

Take immediate shelter in a building or home, if possible.
If no shelter is available, find a clearing away from trees. NEVER stand under or near a tree. Lightning strikes the tallest point and travels downward, sometimes arching to things, including people nearby. Once you find a clearing, squat on your toes with as little body touching the ground as possible.

Hail on Route

Take immediate shelter in a building or home, if possible.
If indoor spaces are unavailable, keep your bike helmet on as it provides some protection for your head.
If there is NO lightning, you can seek shelter under a tree.
If hail starts to accumulate on the road, it is wise to dismount and walk.

Tornados on Route

A tornado watch means conditions are favorable for formation of a tornado. It doesn’t necessarily mean a tornado has been spotted.
A tornado warning means that rotation has been spotted in the clouds or a funnel has touched down. Take cover immediately!
Most injuries and deaths from tornadoes are the result of flying debris. Tornadic storms can produce multiple tornadoes and can include lightning, heavy rain, and hail. Take shelter immediately!
If there are no indoor spaces available, lay down in a low spot on the ground not subject to flooding.

Severe Storms at Campsites

If there is a severe storm approaching, please seek shelter in the designated emergency facility at the campground. Do not stay in your tent if there is potential for lightning, high winds, flooding, or other dangerous conditions. Trees, limbs, or power lines could fall on tents.

EMERGENCIES

In the event of a serious injury or emergency, dial 911 immediately! Be ready to provide a physical address along with your exact location. After emergency services have been contacted, please phone the SAG team at 402-948-0058. If an individual is transported for medical treatment, BAM will assist in contacting the appropriate family member and securing the individual’s bike and luggage.

E-BIKES

We are again offering a service for e-bikes as defined by Minnesota law.
E-bike riders pay an additional $40 + processing fees to cover the costs of the charging system. If you have decided to bring an e-bike since you registered, please contact us at info@bikemn.org to add the e-bike service to your order.
When you check in for the ride: In your registration packet we will provide tags for your e-bikes, batteries and charging cords if you registered as an e-bike rider. This will help us confirm that riders using the charging station have paid the e-bike rider fee.
Please label your e-bike battery and charger with your name and contact information.
A charging service will be available at the campground only (not at rest stops along the route).
E-bike riders are expected to be able to lift their own bike into the SAG vehicle if they need SAG service.
Running out of battery power is not an acceptable reason to request SAG service. If you need SAG service for this reason you will be asked to leave the ride.
Please conserve your battery power throughout the day.
E-bike riders are expected to use extra caution when riding in a group; ride as if you don’t have electric assist in regards to accelerating, braking and safe group riding.
Be sure to follow the rules of the road and posted MPH limits.