Date & Location
March 29, 2025
Starting line:
8141 Lakewood Main St
Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
Time(s)
7:30am start - 50, 66 and 104 miles
8:30am start - 22 miles
Routes
Routes from 22 to 104 miles. See Routes & Maps below for more details.
Requirements
Fundraising Minimum: $250
Age Minimum: 12
This is where you will find your event schedule along with any local guidelines and regulations. Check back periodically for any updates.
Looking for information about all of our events and meet-ups leading up to the ride? Visit the Pre-Ride Activities Page.
Friday, March 28
Ameniti Bay Hotel – Packet Pick-up & VIP Reception
5985 Brookhill Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34232
4–7 p.m. Packet Pick-Up (all riders)
6–8 p.m. VIP Reception (invitation only) at Ameniti Bay Hotel
Saturday, March 29
Lakewood Ranch Main Street – Start Line sponsored by First Watch
8141 Lakewood Main St, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
6 a.m. Registration, Bike Compound and Breakfast open
7:15 a.m. Start Line Announcements begin ‘I Ride with MS’ participant ribbon cutting
7:30 a.m. 50, 66, and 104-mile Routes Begin
8:15 a.m. Start Line Announcements for 22-mile route.
8:30 a.m. 22-mile Route Begins
9:30 a.m. “Bike-A-Neers Bay” Team Village opens, sponsored by Raymond James
9:30 a.m.– 1 p.m. Lunch on route for 50, 66, and 104-mile routes at Osprey Junction Trailhead
9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Finish Line lunch at Lakewood Ranch Main Street
10 a.m. Beer Garden opens
10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Live music on Main Street by Aloha Sharks
11 a.m. “Admiral’s Quarters” VIP area opens, sponsored by Edrington
12 p.m. - Century route riders must be at the turnaround mile 43.1 to complete it.
3 p.m. Awards Celebration in Main Street
5 p.m. Route closes, beer garden, and bike lock-up closes
5:30 p.m. Team Village closes
Team Village
Check out the Team Village sponsored by Raymond James map to find your team’s gathering spot and explore all the amenities available before and after your ride.
From shaded seating areas to live music and a pirate ship, this map will help you make the most of your Bike MS: Suncoast Challenge experience!
From Lakewood Ranch to the sun-drenched Sarasota Keys, get ready to pedal through a mesmerizing journey that spans beautiful bridges, ocean front vistas like Casey Key, and the famous Legacy Trail.
Route Details
We are excited to unveil the 2025 Bike MS: Suncoast Challenge routes for the second year of this incredible ride! Over the last year, we have built close relationships with our law enforcement partners, parks and recreation departments, and county agencies to collaborate on route planning and support to ensure a safe and breathtaking ride.
You’ll experience the best of Florida’s Gulf Coast as you ride through scenic landscapes, iconic trails, and vibrant communities. From Lakewood Ranch to the Sarasota Keys, prepare to pedal across beautiful bridges with panoramic waterway views, oceanfront vistas like the breathtaking Casey Key and Manasota Key and the iconic Legacy Trail, a must-ride destination for cycling enthusiasts.
Route Options
Take a look at the newly updated routes on RidewithGPS as you prepare for Bike MS!
Due to delayed road construction, the 22M and 100M routes have been adjusted to ensure smooth and safe riding for our cyclists.
Be sure to review your route and download the directions to your bike computer before you roll out on Saturday morning.
22 Miles – NEW! This route has been enhanced with a safer and cyclist-friendly path for a perfect introductory ride around scenic Lakewood Ranch including its beautiful lakes. One rest stop on route.
50 Miles – A balanced challenge for intermediate riders along the Legacy Trail to the stunning coastal Casey Key. Four rest stops on route. Lunch stop on route at Osprey Junction Trailhead.
66 Miles – Push your limits with this extended route along the Venetian Waterway of the lower Legacy Trail hitting Casey Key along the way. Six rest stops on route. Lunch stop on route at Osprey Junction Trailhead.
104 Miles – A true century ride for seasoned cyclists, including the Legacy Trail, Casey Key and Manasota Key, it has it all! Nine Rest stops. Lunch stop on route at Osprey Junction Trailhead.
Note: Riders will need to leave Venice train depot rest stop (29.5 miles) by 11am, and reach the turn around point (43 miles) by 12pm to complete the route.
LEGACY TRAIL Rules and Etiquette
The Legacy Trail is a multi-use, non-motorized trail that supports a wide diversity of users. You are likely to encounter people of all ages and levels of fitness: walkers, rollerbladers, skateboarders, elliptical cyclists, two-, three-, and four-wheel bicyclists, dog walkers, wildlife viewers, and anglers. All have equal rights to use the trail.
Main rules that should be followed by Bike MS riders:
*Complaints were made about our event in 2024 from Legacy Trail users because these rules weren't followed...
1. The speed limit along the Trail is fifteen (15) miles per hour.
2. Form a single file line when passing or approaching other trail users. Don't cycle in wide groups.
3. No racing or drafting.
4. Give verbal warning when passing other Trail users.
Please take time before the ride to view the Legacy Trail Safety page from the Friends of the Legacy Trail Organization. It has comprehensive information about the trail, and it's use.
*All routes subject to change.
Bike MS Fundraising Weeks are proudly sponsored by Point B, an organization that shares our commitment to creating a world free of MS. Elevate your fundraising and win some prizes along the way.
The rules are simple: raise the most money during a Fundraising Week and we will reward you for your fundraising success.
Winners for each fundraising week will include both an individual (team member or non-team member) and the team(s) with most money raised online (total dollars) during this time.
Fundraising Week #1: Jan 20th - 26th 2025
Team Categories: Large team (14+ riders) and small team (2-13 riders)
Team Prize:
Choose from one of the options below
-Team Tent (10x10)
-Team Pizza Party
-Your own team ride out song
-Personalized team packet pick up
Individual Prize:
One night stay at one of our Bike MS host hotels (listed in hotel section) during Bike MS weekend.
Winner Announcement
Individual Winner
We would like to congratulate Richard Garrett for raising an amazing $11,122 during the Fundraising Challenge Week 1 (Jan 20th-26th). He is the winner of the hotel room prize for his efforts.
Team Winners
We would like to congratulate Cool Today for raising an amazing $14,843 during the Fundraising Challenge Week (Jan 20th-26th) in the large division competition!
Also, congratulations to team SOC-MS in the small team division for fundraising a fantastic $4,894. A mighty effort for a small team.
Fundraising Week #2: Feb 17th - 23rd 2025
Team Categories: Large team (14+ riders) and small team (2-13 riders)
Team Prize:
Choose from one of the options below
-Team Tent (10x10)
-Team Pizza Party
-Your own team ride out song
-Personalized team packet pick up
-Massages for your team
Individual Prize:
One night stay at one of our Bike MS host hotels (listed in hotel section) during Bike MS weekend.
2nd Prize = Four Tickets to The Florida Aquarium in Tampa
BONUS COMPETITION PRIZE - Tampa Bay Lightning Experience!
Individuals who raise $500 next week will be entered into a prize draw to win a chance to pull the lever for the Tesla coil at the Tampa Bay Lightning Game (Date TBD) and will receive 4 places to ride on the Zamboni!
Your Bike MS packet contains important items including your rider bib, event details and sponsor giveaways. In order to pick up your packet, you must meet the $250 fundraising minimum and have a completed waiver on file.
Please note:
- If you registered online, you've already completed a waiver during the registration process.
- Anyone who did not register themselves online will need to complete a waiver.
- Riders under 18 will need a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.
2025 Packet Pick Up
Tampa Bay
Date: Monday, March 17th
Time: 4pm-6pm
Location: The Bike Room, 2808 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704
Location Map View Here
Sarasota
Date: Saturday, March 22nd
Time: 10am-12pm
Location: Trek Bicycle Bradenton, 1849 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton, FL 34211
Location Map View Here
Pre-Ride Packet Pick Up
Date: Friday, March 28
Time: 4pm-7pm
Location: Ameniti Bay Hotel, 5985 Brookhill Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34232
Location Map View Here
You can also pick-up your packet on Saturday, March 29th from 6am-8am at Lakewood Ranch Main Street before the ride at customer service.
Packet Pick-Up FAQ
What’s in the Rider Packet?
Your Bike MS packet contains many important items including your bib number, bike bib number, helmet tag, wristband, event details and sponsor giveaways.
Why the $250 Fundraising Minimum?
The National MS Society makes a concerted effort to utilize each dollar raised to help people living with multiple sclerosis. To continue making an impact on the lives of those living with MS through our fundraising efforts, the National MS Society requires all registered participants to have met the $250 minimum fundraising requirement prior to picking up their packet.
Who can pick up a packet?
In order to pick up your packet, you must meet the $250 fundraising minimum and have a completed waiver on file. If you registered online, you've already completed a waiver during the registration process. Please note: Riders under 18 will need a waiver signed by a parent or guardian.
Another team member, team captain or family member may pick up your packet for you, as long as you've reached your fundraising minimum and have already turned in a signed waiver.
Can I Turn in Donations at Packet Pick-Up?
Yes, we will accept cash, checks, and credit card donations at all packet pick-ups. To ensure accurate fundraising, please write the participant's name and "2025 Bike MS: Suncoast Challenge" in the memo line or other available field on checks/money orders.
What Else is Available at Packet Pick-Up?
Participant t-shirt, sponsor giveaways, route maps, weekend schedule, and staff will be present to answer questions!
Top Fundraiser items will also be available like the Club K jersey for participants raising $1,000+ and Top 50 members will receive a branded item as a benefit of being in the Top 50 fundraisers for 2024.
Hotel Information
Participants of Bike MS can take advantage of exclusive room blocks reserved specifically for the event.
These room blocks ensure convenient accommodations close to the ride, providing a comfortable and accessible stay for riders, volunteers, and supporters.
Don’t miss the chance to book your spot and be part of an unforgettable experience!
EVEN Hotel Sarasota-Lakewood Ranch ($249 per night) - SOLD OUT
*Closest to start location
-48-hour cancellation policy (Modification and cancellation must be received by 3pm EST 48-hour prior to arrival )
-The last day to make a reservation in the Bike MS room block at the special group rate will be March 12, 2025
Super 8 Hotel by Wyndham Ellenton Bradenton Area - SOLD OUT
Ameniti Bay, BW Signature Collection ($239 per night) - SOLD OUT
*Location of our Friday, March 28th Packet Pick up and VIP Reception.
Tru by Hilton Bradenton I-75 ($239 per night) - SOLD OUT
Cut-off Date: 2/25/2025
Another way your guests can book their reservations is by calling our Hilton Reservations toll-free number at 1-800-HILTONS, have your guests mention the NationalMSSociety Suncoast Challenge Thu, Mar 27 – Sun, Mar 30, 2025 or the unique code 906 to receive your group rate.
Cancellation is 48 hours before check-in.
Super 8 by Wyndham ($157 per night) - SOLD OUT
Cut-off date: 3/14/2025
Find comfort and relaxation at the Super 8 Ellenton Bradenton Area hotel, located on I-75.
Cancellation is 48 hrs before check-in date.
Parking is available at Lakewood Ranch Main Street for participants, volunteers, and friends & family attending free of charge.
Meals & Food
Breakfast
Food at the Saturday start line will be provided by IHOP and includes pancakes, scrambled eggs, breakfast potatoes, sausages, and fresh fruit.
Coffee provided by FoxTail Coffee Co.
Cyclists must bring their own water bottles. We will have water & Gatorade for you.
At the rest stops enjoy individually packaged sweet and salty snacks such granola bars, mini bars, chips, pickle pops, and more.
LMNT pouches will also be available to pour into your water bottle.
Lunch
Lunch will be provided for all 50, 68 and 104-mile cyclists at the second rest stop (Osprey Junction Trailhead). Enjoy an assortment of meat and veggie subs courtesy of Firehouse Subs.
Post Ride
Meals from SoFresh will be available at the finish line festival area from 10:00am until 5:00pm. Gluten free and veggie options will be available.
Route
Whether you have a flat tire or need a snack to help get you across the finish line, we’ve got you covered.
Each route includes fully stocked rest stops, supplied with hydration and nutritional snacks (a mix of fruit, protein, sweet, and salty snacks), every 8 to 18 miles with some of the best snacks and volunteers around. Relax, hydrate, use the restroom, re-apply sunscreen and enjoy time with the volunteers. Along the route you will be joined by our support and gear (SAG) vehicles who will be on there to assist you.
After you cross the finish line, we will have plenty of local food available.
Bike Shops
The support we receive from local bike shops is crucial; bike mechanics will be located throughout the ride along with yearly support from shops in the area. For more Bike Shop information, check out the Training and Prep page!
Motorcycle Marshals
These motorcycle volunteers can be found at "trouble" intersections and along the route. They monitor and guide cyclist traffic but are not permitted to stop vehicular traffic. When you see a road marshal volunteer, ride with caution. They’ll be wearing yellow/orange vests so you can’t miss them. Thank you to the "Defenders" for supporting our event year after year.
Route/Ride Marshals
Cycling with you, this group can help if you need assistance. They’ll be wearing red jerseys so you can’t miss them.
Support and Gear (SAG) Vehicles
Just can’t push another pedal, or just need a ride to the next stop? These van & truck duos rove the route and rest stops to transport you and your bike.
If you need a pickup, flip your bike upside down and give a ‘thumbs-down’ signal as the SAG vehicle approaches.
NOTE: The trip into the finish line is not always direct. Be patient as we pick up other cyclists in need. If you only want a ride to the next rest stop, let the driver know. Always remember to thank your driver, who is volunteering his or her time for the weekend to support you.
Personal SAG Vehicles PROHIBITED. Personal SAG vehicles are not permitted on the route. Please understand our need to cut down on vehicular traffic for YOUR SAFETY.
Police & Communities Who Welcome Us
Please be respectful of the communities that support and welcome Bike MS! Their hospitality makes this event possible. Every effort is made to keep you safe. Where possible, local law enforcement agencies have been recruited to help you travel safely through intersections and on shared roadways. Be courteous, as they help you travel safely through their communities.
Staff
Bike MS staff and key volunteers will be monitoring the route.
We know you have some additional questions, and this will be the place where we can answer them! More Know Before You Go information will be coming soon, so check back often so you don’t miss anything.
‘Know Before You Go’ Pre-event Logistics Call: March 6
Ride weekend is around the corner. Join us virtually Thursday, March 6 at 12:00 pm via Microsoft Teams to get all the details needed to ensure you are ready to ride.
- Know everything you need to know about this awesome new cycling adventure from Bike MS.
- Learn how to get ready for your Bike MS ride.
- Gain a better understanding about what you can expect along the route.
- Bicycle preparation tips and advice from one of our mechanics.
- Information on how to be a safe and responsible cyclist.
All participants are encouraged to attend, especially those joining us for the first time (Rookie Riders) and anyone riding the 25-mile route.
HOW TO JOIN?
Microsoft Teams Need help?
Meeting ID: 215 900 988 212
Passcode: jv2tA9DX
Dial in by phone
+1 689-223-2878,,463522082# United States, Orlando
(833) 682-3858,,463522082# United States (Toll-free)
"Know Before You Go" Logistics Meeting Recording
For new riders to Bike MS: Suncoast Challenge to understand the logistics for the ride.
- Know everything you need to know about this awesome new cycling adventure from Bike MS.
- Learn how to get ready for your Bike MS ride.
- Gain a better understanding about what you can expect along the route.
- Bicycle preparation tips and advice from one of our mechanics.
- Information on how to be a safe and responsible cyclist
View the recording here
More know before you go information can be viewed here
2025 Bike MS: Suncoast Challenge – Relive the Ride!
Experience the excitement of the 2025 Bike MS: Suncoast Challenge through our photo gallery!
From scenic coastal routes to the triumphant finish line, these images capture the energy, determination, and spirit of the ride. Relive the journey and get inspired for next year! 🚴 ♂️ 📸. View the ride photo by clicking on the button below.
2025 Bike MS: Suncoast Challenge Photo Album
Time To Get Excited!
Watch the 2024 highlights video to see what this ride is all about! - 2024 Bike MS: Suncoast Challenge Highlight Video
Thank you very much for attending Bike MS: Suncoast Challenge 2024. If you missed the photos from the event in 2024, please check out the Flickr link below for your ride weekend photos here!
We hope you created some amazing memories...
Ride Weekend Awards for Teams
Best Team Tent Decorations
Decorate your team tent to win!
Best Jersey Design
Ask team member wearing your jersey to be present at "Awards Celebration" at 3pm to show off design.
Team Photo Time
Remember to book your team photo time! Photos under the arch.
View the Bike MS Team Photo sign up time form
This will be where you’ll find team information. Bike MS team information and awards will be posted as soon as it’s available.
Team Tents
Teams are able to order a team tent, table and chairs in our Team Village sponsored by Raymond James on Lakewood Ranch Main Street.
If you and your team would like your own team tent to relax in post-ride, please contact the Melissa from All Event Rental below. Many have our teams have their own tent at our event.
Tent, Table, and Chair Orders
All Event Rental
941-894-3406
Item Unit Price
10 x 10 Tent: $110.00
20 x 20 Tent: $440.00
6' Banquet Tables: $9.95 (6-8 people)
8' Banquet Tables: $9.95 (8-10 people)
60" Round Tables: $10.20 (8 people)
Linen for 60” round table: $16.00 (colors upon availability)
Black Plastic Chairs: $1.48
White Plastic Chairs: $1.70
Fan: $52.00 (Client responsible for ensuring an electrical outlet is accessible.)
Delivery/Pick Up Cost: Covered by Bike MS
Bike MS Awards
Our amazing 2024 Bike MS Award Winners are listed below
Who will win our 2025 Bike MS awards for these categories? Best of luck to our teams, volunteers and riders this year!
Highest Fundraising
1st Cool Today
2nd Ultimate Fighters
3rd Raymond James
Largest Team of the Year
RAYMOND JAMES
Friends & Family Team of the Year
1st Ultimate Fighters
2nd Romp to Cure MS
3rd Heckert's Heroes
Corporate Team of the Year
1st Cool Today
2nd Raymond James
3rd iHeartMedia
Highest Fundraising Per Rider (Large Team)
1st Romp to Cure MS
2nd Ultimate Fighters
3rd Cool Today
Highest Fundraising Per Rider (Small Team)
1st Ranch Riders
2nd Sue's Cruise
3rd Heckert's Heroes
Rookie Rider of the Year
Les Gray
Rookie Team of the Year
Team S.O.B. Seniors on Bikes
Volunteer of the Year
Todd Moore
Volunteer Group of the Year
YE MYSTIC KREWE OF THE SANTA MARGARITA
Parrish High School
Spirit of the Ride Award
Mickey Wyss