A cyclist speeds through a scenic route on top of Signal Mountain. Staff File Photo by Allison CarterThe bicycling community in the Chattanooga area has grown significantly in recent years with many organized rides for road and mountain bike riders of all ability levels.
The Tour de Georgia pro bicycle race, which featured many of the top racers in the world, made several stops in Chattanooga and north Georgia during its existence before the race was suspended following the 2008 race.
Area cyclists took advantage of the interest and excitement generated by the Tour de Georgia and other events and have worked to make the city one of the most bicycle-friendly towns in the Southeast.
Among the top annual events for cyclists in the area is the 3-State, 3-Mountain Challenge, a 100-mile ride that starts and ends in downtown Chattanooga and takes riders over three mountain climbs.
For mountain bike enthusiasts, the local chapter of the Southeast Off-Road Bicycle Organization works to build trails and promote riding and competitive racing throughout the area.