FAQ
Most of your questions should be answered below, but if not please reach out via the contact form.
What time do I need to be there?
Classic check-in is at Como Lakeside Pavilion starting at 7:30 a.m. All riders must be on the course by 9:30 a.m.
REVIEW YOUR CHECK-IN TIME on your registration.
Where do I park?
Let’s start with where NOT to park. The lots at Como Lakeside Pavilion are reserved for regular parkgoers, Dock and Paddle patrons, volunteers, musicians and staff. Do NOT park in the Zoo parking lots, Como Golf Course lots or McMurray Fields lots. Parking is available elsewhere on the Como Park Campus. There is also lots of parking just east of Lake Como at the Como Elementary School and Como Senior High School and on neighborhood streets east of Lexington Avenue. We have obtained a permit to park in these school lots from 7 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
What kind of bikes are allowed?
Just about all of them! E-bikes that meet the state of MN’s definition of Class I, II, or III e-bikes, analog “acoustic” bicycles, adaptive bicycles, tandems, recumbents, kiddos in bike trailers, tricycles, and even well behaved dogs in enclosed bike trailers.
Can I register the day of the event?
Very Important: There is no day-of registration.
How much does it cost?
Rates are $25-$58. Volunteers ride for free. NOTE: T-shirts are not included in the ride price.
How do I get there?
Bicycling to the Classic is a great way to go, but please avoid the trail going south from Como Pavilion as this will be filled with outgoing cyclists.
Is it a race?
NO. Please stay to the right to allow passing. Bicyclists should say “on your left” when passing.
I’m a faster rider, can I ride in the street?
Yes, we encourage you to do so to allow slower riders more space on the trails. Bicycles are legal vehicles. There are designated bike lanes adjacent to the trails on Como Boulevard, Mississippi River Boulevard and Johnson Parkway. Lilydale Road has very light traffic. We do NOT recommend bicycling on Shepard Road, Warner Road or Wheelock Parkway (due to its narrow width).
Is the course difficult?
On both routes, there are a few climbs to contend with which riders may find challenging, but Ramsey Hill is no longer included so you’ll have to conquer that on a different day.
Are roads closed to automobile traffic?
No. Riders will enjoy riding on paved trails, bicycle lanes and protected bikeways. As always, bicyclists ride at their own risk and must follow the rules of the road.
Are there support (SAG) vehicles in case of mechanical difficulties?
Ride Marshals patrolling the course and police officers stationed at several intersections will request a SAG vehicle as necessary. Riders should call 911 if there is an accident.
Are there directional route signs?
Yes, the route has signage. Police officers and volunteers will direct you as well. Riders receive a map when they check in too.
Is it a fundraiser?
Yes. The Classic supports the Friends of St. Paul and Ramsey County Parks and Trails.
Where do my registration fees go?
It costs a lot of money and requires hundreds of hours to produce an event like this. Besides staff time, your registration fee includes fresh coffee, bountiful refreshments, live music, and police officers on route. Funds collected beyond the cost of the event benefit Friends of the Parks.