Wheels moving for bike tours

Cyclists of all ages and abilities are tuning up their bikes and taking to the streets in preparation for a one- or two-day cycle through Ontario's streets and countryside. They are preparing for the RONA MS Bike Tours, events organized by the MS Society of Canada that raise funds for multiple sclerosis research and services.

With route lengths varying from 30 to 180 kilometres, the RONA MS Bike Tours are geared to cyclists of various ages and abilities. All tours include food and beverages as well as rest stops, cyclist support vehicles, bicycle repair, and prizes. Cyclists raise pledges and are eligible for a variety of prizes based on amount raised.

Proceeds from events like the RONA MS Bike Tours funds services for people with MS and their families, as well as helping to advance the MS Society's national research program. Researchers are discovering new treatments for MS as they get closer to finding a cure.

"There is much research taking place around the world that is looking to improve the life of people with MS and eliminate the disease for future generations," said Dr. William J. McIlory, national medical advisor for the MS Society of Canada.

Five RONA MS Bike Tours will take place in Ontario this year - Ottawa to Kemptville (Aug. 11 and 12), Brampton to Waterloo (Aug. 18 and 19), Niagara Region (Aug. 26), and Toronto (Sept. 9).

More information about the RONAMS Bike Tours is available at www.msbiketours.com or by calling 1-800-268-7582, ext. 3038.