Margate or Bust

John Kennedy

If you’re looking for a leisurely bike ride, some strenuous exercise, a chance to enjoy some nice scenery, or the opportunity to have a few drinks with friends, why not do all four?  Saturday, June 7 is our date for a scenic 55-mile bike trek to marvelous Margate by the sea.  We depart from the New Jersey transit station in Atco.  The station entrance is off of Route 73 north, just north of the Route 30 interchange.  We’ll begin convening around 8:00 AM for an 8:30 departure.  Our trip takes us past Mullica Lake and Atsion Lake, through Hammonton and Mays Landing, Egg Harbor Township, and Somers Point.  After crossing the JFK Bridge into Longport, we head north to Maynard’s Café on Amherst Avenue in Margate to cool off the wheels.

There are several stops along the way, usually one for breakfast (maybe we’ll try the Red Barn on 206 this year).  Other stops are Testa’s Good Guys Pub at Lake Lenape, Juliano’s in Egg Harbor Township and Dairy Queen in Somers Point. These 2 are optional.  (Actually, they’re all optional.  It all depends on how quickly you want to get there.  Personally, for a 55-mile trip, I’m in no hurry.)

Last year, our trip home was via New Jersey transit.  From Maynard’s, it’s about 5 miles north to the Atlantic City Terminal.  Cost is about $3.00 and you can bring your bikes on the train (although they’ll probably make you stand with your bike).  The train drops you back at the Atco station.

There are several requirements for the trip.  First, you must be in good shape.  It’s a leisurely trip, not a race, but 55 miles is still 55 miles.  We hope to have a support vehicle (or 2) following us, but that’s not guaranteed.  You must bring your own hydration for the trip, plus sunscreen and a helmet, and any supplies you might need to make repairs on the way. Tire repair kits, pumps, maybe a spare tube or 2 are essential.  The surface is asphalt all the way, but precautions must be taken with high-pressure tires.  Cell phones are handy to have too in case you get lost.  Maps will be provided.  There is no cost for this unless we have a support vehicle; then I’ll ask for $3 donations to cover the gas.  There will be sign-up sheets at the first meeting in June.

This is NOT a rain or shine event.  If it’s going to rain, we cancel and there is no rain date.  Just a “maybe-next-year” date.

Any questions, call me at 609-458-4193 or e-mail at john.kennedy67@verizon.net