Amish Country Bike Tour rides into Dover Sept. 9

Kent County Tourism Corp. and Bike Delaware have formed a new partnership that will begin with organizing this year's Amish Country Bike Tour, scheduled for Saturday, Sept. 9. The partnership will combine the event management and marketing expertise of Kent Country Tourism with the vast and varied cycling experiences of Bike Delaware.

"Since 2011, Bike Delaware has worked behind the scenes to create a walking and biking trail system touching the state's three counties," said Drew Knox, Bike Delaware president. "We are tremendously excited to have this opportunity to put our name and mission before the public. This year, we'll fine-tune one of the most successful rides in the state. Our goal in coming years is the creation of a regional, weekend event with multiple ride options that connects the quaint villages of Kent County."

The Amish Country Bike Tour is presented by WSFS Bank. Cyclists can choose up to five different loops; 15, 25, 50, 62, or 100 miles, each of which starts and stops at Legislative Mall in downtown Dover. Participants will receive a bike tour map, giveaways, up to four food and rest stops - including the famous pie stop at the Amish Schoolhouse - and an invitation to the after-tour catered picnic.

"Our goal is to continually evolve what is already a major event," said Wendie Vestfall, Kent County Tourism Corp. executive director. "Partnering with Bike Delaware lets us do that rapidly. As in past years, the Amish Country Bike Tour will likely draw more than 2,000 riders to enjoy the famous pie stop, SAG and mechanical support, and a picnic lunch. The Amish Country Bike Tour has something for everyone, from families with young children to dedicated riders who want a challenge of riding 100 miles in a day."

Registration is $60 for adults, $30 for those 5-16 and free for anyone 5 and under. For more information or to register, go to AmishCountryBikeTour.com.

Bike Delaware is an independent, non-government, member-supported advocacy organization that works in partnership with government, businesses and local communities to make cycling and walking safe, convenient and fun transportation options in Delaware. The vision is bikeway networks throughout the state that everyone can use to get where they want to go on a bike. For more information on Bike Delaware, visit www.bikede.org.