Welcome to our Back Roads
Radsport Back Roads is the brainchild of Long Tail Productions founders Kacey and Gabe Lloyd and was born from a love for adventure and a deep appreciation for Eastern Pennsylvania's beautiful, bike-friendly landscapes. Every back road is essentially found out the back door of the Lloyd’s house and was once part of their daily training geography as elite cyclists. The event was conceived to share the stunning farm roads and unique culture of the Pennsylvania Dutch region and show off the amazing venue that brought them to the Lehigh Valley: The Velodrome.
We want to ensure that every participant, whether a seasoned racer or a casual rider, can enjoy the adventure to the fullest. The event is committed to pushing limits, keeping things fun, and riding like we used to ride on any given day: choosing the route that suited our legs and training plan.
Nestled where rolling hills and lush farmlands stretch as far as the eye can see, Olympians and World Champions know this hidden gem as some of the best training roads in the world. Since 1975, riders from around the world have come to test themselves at the velodrome. Their training rides take them through the rolling hills, dense forests, gravel climbs, and scenic overlooks that make the Lehigh Valley perfect for riding. It was this racing scene and the associated training routes that attracted both Gabe and Kacey to this area and kept them here after their racing careers ended. This scenic ride is designed to immerse participants in the natural beauty and rustic charm of the region they now call home. You will experience a ride that blends challenging terrain with breathtaking landscapes and a variety of speeds and technical abilities.
The reason we think this ride deserves special attention is because it would be nearly impossible to complete self-supported, even for the best of riders. This route is a mixture of a few training routes that were usually done with detours that took away from some of the opportunities to link these loops in such a scenic way. It also means we can keep you on many more back roads for the entirety of the ride. By creating fully-supported rest stops with real food and cold drinks, you can experience the Lehigh Valley north of the velodrome in an immersive way that few locals have ever experienced.
Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, Radsport Backroads invites you to embark on an unforgettable adventure. Pedal at your own pace, breathe in the fresh country air, and let the charm of Pennsylvania backroads captivate your soul. Join us in celebrating the simple joys of cycling, nature's beauty, and community warmth at Radsport Back Roads.
Event Highlights
Beautiful Scenery: Each route takes riders through the heart of Central Pennsylvania’s farmland, past historic landmarks, and along serene backroads. Expect lush green fields, quaint villages, and the occasional covered bridge. The routes wind through areas steeped in Pennsylvania Dutch culture.
Rest Stops: Well-stocked rest stops along each route provide refreshments, mechanical support, and a chance to rest and enjoy the surroundings. These stops are perfect for refueling and sharing stories with fellow riders.
Community and Camaraderie: Radsport Backroads is more than just a ride; it celebrates cycling culture. The event fosters a supportive and festive atmosphere where riders can connect, share experiences, and enjoy post-ride festivities featuring local food and beverages.
Timed segments and awards for the top three in each category: To add a competitive edge, Radsport Backroads includes several timed segments throughout the routes. Riders can test their mettle against others on challenging climbs and sprint sections. The top three male, female, and non-binary cyclists in each route will receive awards and recognition during the post-ride celebration.
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