We’re going to start a new weekly feature on PLP with a roundup of bicycle tourism related news. We always have our ears to the ground with interesting developments with how communities and destinations are embracing cycling. To be featured in the roundup or to send us tips, email us here.

Central Otago in New Zealand gets more funding.
New Zealand’s Central Otago Rail Trail is one of the best examples of bike tourism we’ve ever seen. Not only did it revitalize an area that was dying on its feet, but it was also the inspiration for New Zealand’s Great Rides. In recent news, it looks like the NZ government is going to invest some more money to make this iconic ride better by connecting it to other trails. Check out the vid below to see our experience of the area.



Gravel Bikeway Signed in Hastings, MI

It is not news that gravel events are hot right now and attract cyclists from all over the world to small rural towns. But why just have the visitation one day of the year? The community that hosts the wildly popular Barry-Roubaix is welcoming cyclists all year round to ride this regions iconic gravel event with permanent signs!

2016 Barry-Roubaix Promo Video from Rick Plite on Vimeo.


New bicycle hostel in Eastern, OR Opens – Spoken Hostel

Eastern Oregon is hands down one of our favorite places to ride in the state. The roads are lightly trafficked compared to the coast and it is dotted with lots of great small towns. For cyclists exploring Eastern Oregon or riding the TransAM route, there’s a great new lodging option in the town of Mitchell, OR. You’ll still be able to camp in the city park but if you want to stay indoors there is another great bikefriendly option! Check out their Facebook page here.

A vid from our experience in Mitchell, a few years ago.

Got a bicycle tourism related tip or news story? Email us here.