RYDB Fest – Community Overnighter

The Ride Your Damn Bike Festival is back — and once again we’re inviting you to ride your damn bike, any damn way you want.

Patrick Farnsworth of Bikes or Death will be leading a beginner-friendly, lightly supported, no-drop community overnighter as part of a weekend full of riding, learning, and good times.

This year we’re riding the Lake Wedington Loop — a classic route from the Bikepacking Roots Fayetteville Route Network that heads west of Fayetteville on mostly gravel roads into the rolling oak woodlands of the Ozark National Forest and Lake Wedington Recreation Area.

Expect quiet backroads, gentle hills, beautiful scenery, and optional rocky singletrack adventures on the return.

There are no stores on route — riders should plan to carry all food and snacks from Fayetteville. Water will be available at camp.

This ride is designed for riders curious about bikepacking, first overnighters, or anyone looking for a supportive adventure with a great community.

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What “Beginner Friendly” Means

We will ride together at a relaxed pace and create a supportive environment — but this is still an adventure ride.

You can expect:

• Ride leads and sweepers (no one left behind)
• ProSlow pace (10–12 mph moving average)
• Mandatory regroup stops
• Mechanic support for minor repairs
• SAG vehicle available if you need assistance or a ride to camp

Riders should still plan to be self-supported — carry your own food, water, clothing, and camping gear. A packing list will be provided before the event.

Expect long stretches without services and variable conditions — preparation is part of the experience.

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Route Options

Both routes ride together to camp on Day 1. On Day 2 you can choose your adventure.

You can decide which option to take at camp — no need to commit ahead of time.

Lake Wedington Loop — Gravel Option

• 59 miles total (35 miles Day 1 / 24 miles Day 2)
• ~2,800 ft elevation
• Gravel and pavement only
• Best for first overnighters or riders wanting a smoother experience

Lake Wedington Loop — Singletrack Option

• 68 miles total (35 miles Day 1 / 33 miles Day 2)
• Includes ~20 miles of singletrack on Day 2
• Slower, more physical, and more technical
• Best for riders comfortable on trails

Bike recommendation:
Gravel bike with 40mm+ tires for gravel route. Mountain bike recommended if riding singletrack.

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Support vs Self-Supported (Important)

This is not a fully supported tour.

We are providing:

• Group leadership
• Basic mechanical help
• SAG safety net
• Water at camp

You are responsible for:

• Your pace and effort
• Food and personal nutrition
• Camping gear
• Weather preparedness
• Completing the route

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Weekend Itinerary

Friday — Expo at the Upper Ramble
Optional expo included with registration. Meet partners, attend workshops, and connect with riders.

Saturday — Day 1
7:30 am — Gather at Upper Ramble
8:30 am — Rider meeting
9:00 am — Grand Depart

Camp — Optional hike or ride to Twin Knobs viewpoints.

Sunday — Day 2
10:00 am — Roll out toward Fayetteville
Gravel or singletrack options available.

Evening gathering — details TBD.

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FAQ

What if I can’t keep up?
We ride no-drop with regroup points. SAG is available if needed.

Can I switch routes on Day 2?
Yes — decide at camp.

Is this okay for beginners?
Yes — as long as you are comfortable riding 30–40 miles per day and camping overnight.

Is there resupply?
No stores on route. Bring food. Water at camp.

What bike should I ride?
Gravel bike or hardtail works great. Mountain bike recommended for singletrack.

What if I can’t make it to camp?
SAG can transport you and your bike.

Will there be a mechanic?
Yes — limited trail repairs.

Refund policy
A portion of proceeds supports Bikepacking Roots. No refunds, transfers allowed.