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Four Pelotonia Rider Myths Debunked

By The Pelotonia Team|June 30, 2025

Ride a bike? Fundraise? Me? Yes, You!  

Hear directly from real Pelotonia Riders in this brand-new video as they debunk four common myths about participating in Pelotonia's cycling and fundraising events.

Take it from these dedicated participants and use these facts to join our passionate, grassroots community that is making an impact on Ending Cancer through their efforts.  

 
Watch the full video here on YouTube—and share with friends to encourage them to join us in Ending Cancer by registering to ride today! 
 
Riding your bike to fundraise for innovative cancer research is not only impactful but it can also be fun! We understand that it may seem intimidating though, so let’s talk about it. 
Below are four common myths about being a Pelotonia Rider, debunked with the facts, in case any of these myths may be holding you back from signing up! 
 

Myth #1: Pelotonia is a race.   

Fact #1: Pelotonia is a Ride, not a race.   

Unlike races, Ride Weekend and Gravel Day rides are about community, not competition. Anybody can ride; no matter your cycling experience or fitness level.  
If you haven’t ridden in years, just go at your own pace and take breaks at the rest stops—most importantly, enjoy the experience! 
   

Myth #2: Training is a grind.   

Fact #2: Training can be fun and manageable.  

Pelotonia offers various training resources (including a Safety & Training Handbook) to support Riders. If you start gradually, break it up, and can ride 60 to 70% of your route distance beforehand, you’re ready!  
Join a peloton to learn from more experienced Riders and participate in group training rides for practice (and more fun!). 
 

Myth #3: You need to own a specific bike.  

Fact #3: All bikes are welcome!  

No fancy bikes are needed for Pelotonia cycling events; all types are welcome. And if you don’t own a bike, no problem! Many participants borrow bikes from friends or neighbors.  
Pelotonia also offers bike rentals. In partnership with Unlimited Biking, you can rent a bike for Ride Weekend, with several bike options to choose from starting at $59—now including e-bikes. 
 

Myth #4: Fundraising is impossible.   

Fact #4: Fundraising is totally possible! 

Fundraising for Pelotonia 2025 goes through October 15 so you have time before, during, and after your ride to meet your goals.  
Share your personal story and connection to cancer. Don’t forget to have fun with it. We’ve seen lots of creative ideas across the community that are making an impact on the mission; many are featured in Pelotonia’s fundraising resources webpage and toolkit—and check back often as we continue to share new tips and tools each Fundraising Friday on the website, blog, and through social media on Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube.  
 
Now you know the facts.  
So, will you join us in Ending Cancer?  
Register as a Rider for Ride Weekend on August 2-3 or Gravel Day on October 4 today at pelotonia.org/register
 
Already registered? Share this blog post and video with others to see if they’ll join us to ride! 
Full link to the YouTube video is here: https://youtu.be/EvY3nNy70F0
 

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