
¡Pick Me Up at the Border! is a road cycling race on September 18–19, 2026 in Fitchburg, WI, with an entry fee of $20.
From the Organizer
This is a long-distance, nighttime, gravel ride. Don't miss this unique experience!
There will be three ride options: 25 mile (Belleville), 40 mile (Monticello), and 80 mile (Illinois state line) out and back, asphalt for 5.3 miles in Fitchburg, then all gravel/dirt trail, except for a short detour on Tunnel Road around the closed Stewart Tunnel, beginning at nightfall.
End times vary according to distance. Participants generally return to their motor vehicles at the start point or ride home.
This ride is on the Badger State Trail. Riders are responsible for their own state trail passes.
We meet at 6:30pm for required check-in and safety briefing. Then grab some snacks provided by Fitchburg Family Pharmacy before you hit the trail!
The ride starts at 7pm. We will ride as a group south to the crossing of County Highway M, after which riders may ride in small groups or alone at their own pace and distance.
Your on-line registration fee of $15 is a donation to Bike Fitchburg, Inc., a 501(c)(3) charity devoted to improving biking in Fitchburg, Wisconsin, and is deductible to the full extent of federal and state tax law. You will also sign a release and pay a registration service fee when you register. Additional donations and donations from non-riders support our work and are greatly appreciated!
Helmet and long-lasting headlight(s) are required. Spare lights, batteries, and/or power packs are recommended for the longer distances.
This ride is mostly unsupported, however there will be water and snack stops along the route at the Belleville, Monticello, and Jane Addams Trail trailheads and a 24-hour convenience store in Monroe.
Thank you for supporting bicycle advocacy in Fitchburg!
Events
Weather
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
72°
Typical Low
51°
Chance of Rain
33%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Charmany Farm, 2 mi from the venue.
Host City
Nearest Airport
MSN
Dane County Regional Truax Field · 11 mi
Major Hub
MKE
General Mitchell International Airport · 81 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
Line up lodging and travel early to lock in your race weekend.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at ¡Pick Me Up at the Border!, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
57
Days to train
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From Endurance Grid
Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it’s the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer’s event page.
Road cycling rewards pacing judgment and consistent time on your bike more than raw power. If you already ride regularly and can comfortably ride a few miles, you have a good starting base for most beginner-friendly events.
Built around sustained effort on a bike, exploring cities on the open road. Beginner distances create a great entry point into endurance sports.
Coming Up
Lake Ripley Ride 2026
24 miles away
Pedal The Peace Rides
37 miles away
Dairyland Dare Presented by Incredible Bank
33 miles away
Kevin D. Rice. Sr. Memorial Bike Ride and Picnic
56 miles away
Plan your trip
Coming from out of town? There's more to Fitchburg than race day. We'll help you line up nearby lodging, flights, a rental car, and things to do so you can make the most of your racecation.
Plan your trip to FitchburgFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
¡Pick Me Up at the Border!
Sep 18, 2026