Bike the 'Burg Challenge

media release: 

****MEDIA ALERT FOR APRIL 14TH****

FITCHBURG CHAMBER VISITOR + BUSINESS BUREAU ANNOUNCES

ANNUAL “BIKE THE ‘BURG” CHALLENGE WITH NEW PARTNERSHIPS

Area cyclists of all ages and abilities are invited to participate in the Fitchburg Chamber Visitor + Business Bureau’s 2026 Bike The ‘Burg Challenge! Participants will be challenged to bike 150 miles (or more) during the spring and summer of 2026.

The Bike the ‘Burg Challenge began the summer of 2021 and has grown in participation and enthusiasm in Fitchburg and all of Dane County. It’s free to join the challenge, and everyone registered will be entered in several drawings to win prizes from local businesses throughout the season. Fitchburg has ideal access to three of Wisconsin’s finest bike trails and is home to three local bike paths. The challenge encourages cyclists both new to the area, and those who are familiar with biking in Dane County, to get on a bike and discover what makes Fitchburg a top destination for biking enthusiasts. The 2026 Bike The ‘Burg Challenge is sponsored by Fitchburg Family Pharmacy and The Cesta, an Illuminus Community.

“’The ‘Burg’ is a wonderful place to ride, and we are so fortunate to have this great infrastructure,” said Thad Schumacher, owner of Fitchburg Family Pharmacy. “We know the important role exercising plays for your health and since cycling is one of my passions, it is natural for us to sponsor this great event.”

“We’re proud to support an initiative that brings people together, promotes active lifestyles, and strengthens the sense of community," said Stephanie Burris, Executive Director of The Cesta. "Many of our future residents are avid cyclists.  Supporting Bike the 'Burg allows us to advocate for a safe, accessible outdoor activity which directly benefits older adults who want to stay active, independent, and engaged. Bike the ‘Burg sponsorship honors our commitment to senior wellness beyond our future walls, especially through its support of Cycling Without Age and the meaningful experiences it provides to older adults.” 

Back by popular demand, an additional option for riders is to join the Fitchburg’s Brewery Ride on June 6th. This is an organized ride that takes cyclists on an 18-mile ride through Fitchburg, with stops at local breweries along the way. The ride is organized by the Bike the ‘Burg Challenge and Bike Fitchburg. New in 2026 Bike the ‘Burg will be partnering with local non-profit, Cycling Without Age-Fitchburg Chapter, with all proceeds from sales of the commemorative 2026 Bike the ‘Burg tee and Brewery ride going to the organization. Cycling Without Age Fitchburg Chapter is part of an international coalition that brings the amazing feeling of riding a bicycle to those who cannot pedal on their own.

For more information about the 2026 Bike The ‘Burg Challenge, please contact Angela Kinderman. Click here to sign up for Fitchburg’s Brewery Ride.

WHO:  Fitchburg Chamber Visitor + Business Bureau

WHAT: 2026 Bike The ‘Burg Challenge

WHEN: April-September 2026

WHERE:  Fitchburg and Dane County, Wisconsin

MORE INFO:  www.biketheburg.org