Organizers hoped to double the size of the Bike About Town event in its second ride, and almost got there as over 80 riders participated Friday evening. The event is hosted by the City of Albany Recreation and Community Services Department and Solano Avenue Cyclery.

Local cycling advocacy group, Albany Strollers and Rollers guided riders along the route from Solano Avenue Cyclery to Albany beach and back. All along the way drivers and by-standers waved and cheered as the sizable group moved along Solano, Jackson and Buchanan Avenues, commanding an entire lane.

Eva Phalen from Albany's Recreation & Community Services Department said the goals of the event include building community, promoting bicycling, and patronage of local businesses through sponsorships.

Participants had various reasons for coming out. Rick Markell said the chance to ride with the community brought him and his family out, and his favorite part was riding down the middle of the lane on Solano. 

Valdemar Jordan came out to support biking and simply enjoyed riding with so many friends. He said, "Next time I'm going to bring a cow bell."

Rider Ed Fields said, "I like riding with a big group of people. My favorite part was the 10 seconds at the beach. I would have liked more."

A post-ride gathering in Solano-Peralta Park featured food, drinks and raffle prizes provided by Solano Avenue Cyclery.

The final Bike About Town event will take place on September 23.