The 2026 CycleAbility Challenge

The CycleAbility Challenge is an annual cycling event; for the second year, the ride is benefiting New Hope Community SHS Division. Every mile ridden helps create new opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to build confidence, develop real-life skills, and grow their independence.

Proceeds from the 2026 ride will help build a new Teaching Kitchen where more than 100 people will learn to cook, explore nutrition, gain everyday living skills, and create meaningful experiences together.

Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or simply looking for a ride with purpose, we invite you to join us for a memorable day on some of the region’s most scenic cycling routes.

Saturday, September 19, 2026 (Rain or Shine)

Start & Finish
Kent Volunteer Fire Department
28 Maple Street
Kent, CT 06757

Wrap Dinner
KPG Kitchen & Bar
17 Railroad Street
Kent, CT 06757

Ride Options

Challenge Ride
Approximately 70 miles through the scenic Hudson Valley and Litchfield County countryside.

Family-Friendly Rail Trail Ride
A beautiful 40-mile out-and-back ride (20 miles each direction) along the Harlem Valley Rail Trail. This mostly level route is ideal for recreational cyclists, families, and anyone looking for a more relaxed ride.

Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles, hydration stations, and volunteers will be available approximately every 5 miles to keep riders safe and supported throughout the day.

Virtual Ride
Can’t join us in Kent? Register as a virtual rider and complete your miles throughout September wherever you ride. Set a personal goal, invite friends and family to support your journey, and help create opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Rider Amenities

  • Supported ride with SAG and Gear Vehicles
  • Volunteers stationed approximately every 5 miles
  • Water, sports drinks, and snacks along the route
  • Lunch during the ride
  • Post-ride dinner and celebration at KPG Kitchen & Bar
  • Event T-shirt (registration deadline applies)

Event Schedule

8:00 a.m.                                         Rider Check-in & Breakfast

8:45 a.m.                                              Welcome & Safety Briefing

9:00 a.m.                                         Ride Begins

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.            Lunch Stop

2:00 p.m.                                         Riders Begin Returning

4:00 p.m.                                         Ride Concludes

4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.               Wrap Dinner & Celebration

 

Rider Requirements

  • All participants must wear a CPSC-, ANSI-, or SNELL-approved bicycle helmet.
  • All riders must sign the event waiver prior to participating.
  • Riders under 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian.
  • Cyclists are expected to follow all traffic laws and practice safe riding etiquette.
  • Riders should bring a bicycle that is in safe operating condition.

 

Your Impact

Every registration, every donation, and every mile help build a new Teaching Kitchen at New Hope Community’s SHS Division. This new space will give more than 85 people the opportunity to build everyday life skills, explore creativity, gain confidence, and grow their independence through hands-on cooking and learning experiences.

Whether you ride 10 miles or 70, your participation helps create opportunities that last long after the finish line.