FAQ

LOGISTICS
When is Bike MS?
August 22 & 23, 2015

Where is Bike MS?
Start/Finish Location:
Saturday Starts at Bellevue Beach Park (665 Frank Benke Way, Bellevue, KY 41073) and ends at Camp Kern (5291 Ohio 350, Oregonia, OH 45054).
Sunday Starts at Camp Kern and ends at Bellevue Beach Park
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What time does the Bike MS ride start?
Registration/check-in begins Saturday morning at 6 a.m. The ride begins at 7:30 a.m. All riders who are not on the route by 8:00 a.m. will be taken by Support & Gear (SAG) van to the appropriate rest stop.
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Are cyclists required to wear a helmet?
YES!  You MUST wear a helmet!  Riders will be asked to leave the ride if found not wearing a helmet.  It makes safe sense!   
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How much does it cost to participate?
There is an individual registration fee dependent upon date of registration (see schedule below) and all riders are required to raise minimum donations of $300. 
Example: 1 Rider = Cost of Registration fee + $300 minimum fundraising

Registration Fee Schedule:
August 23 - $20.15 (2014 Rookies - $15)
September 8 - $25
November 3 - $30
December 1 - $35
January 5 - $40
February 16 - $45
March 18 - $50
April 6 - $55
May 26 - $60
July 6 - $65
August 3 - $70
August 18 – online registration closes
August 22 - $75

*Does not include lodging fee
*Each rider is required to raise a minimum of $300.00 to participate in Bike MS. Rider packets will not be released until the $300 fundraising minimum is met.

Registration fees are non-transferable.
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Is my child able to ride?                                                                                              
The minimum age to ride is 12 years old. Regardless of age, all children under 18 years old must be accompanied by a legal guardian. A notarized waiver is required . No trailers or carriers are permitted. Anyone under 12 years old who wishes to participate in Bike MS is welcome to volunteer with a legal guardian.
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What if it rains?
Bike MS takes place rain or shine. Please pack appropriate gear!
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How can I sign up to volunteer?
Volunteers are the key to success and the main reason Bike MS is a wonderful event for everyone participating.  Volunteering is a fulfilling experience that also gives you a great opportunity to make new friends, have a positive impact and help others. Recruit your friends, family and co-workers to volunteer and enjoy everything Bike MS has to offer. Volunteers are needed for everything from cheering at the finish line to traffic control, so there's something for everyone!  Sign up to volunteer online.
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When and where can I pick up my event packet?
We will offer pre-event packet pick-ups at designated locations. We encourage you to attend pre-event pickups to avoid long lines on Saturday morning!
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We will offer pre-event packet pick-ups at designated locations. We encourage you to attend pre-event pickups to avoid long lines on Saturday morning!

Tuesday, August 17                       Northern KY Packet Pick UP         Fidelity          
Wednesday, August 18                  VIP Packet Pick Up             TBD
Thursday, August 19                       NMSS Office, 4440 Lake Forest Drive #120, Cincinnati, OH 45242
Attn: ALL RIDERS
To receive your rider number you must have met your $300 minimum. If you have not met the minimum you must sign a Promise to Pay Form. If you’ve registered online, you do not need to complete a Participation Waiver. If not, a completed waiver will be required. ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST ALSO COMPLETE A CAMP KERN WAIVER.

What is included in the rider packet?
The packet includes bib number, bike frame numbers, luggage tags and a wristband for meals. You will also receive your participant t-shirt. Please have t-shirt sizes for those whose packets you are picking up.

USING THE WEBSITE
Is my information secure?
The National MS Society and Bike MS website and have made every effort to protect your information. We use industry standard SSL encryption techniques to make sure passwords, and personal information travel securely over the Internet. We have also installed an encryption engine on our database server so your data is securely stored.
Credit card information is not stored in our database.
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How is my credit card information handled?
Credit card information is not stored in our database. During the donation process, we send your credit card information to an online processing terminal using a secure connection. The information passed back is an approval or denial for the credit card donation.

What credit cards do you accept?
We take Visa, MasterCard, Amex and Discover.
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What is my username and password?
When you register online, you will create a username and password to continue with the registration process.  Each person has a unique username and password. If you are a past participant, please login with your existing information and then register. The system will recognize you and provide a much easier registration experience!
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What if I forget my username and password?
Remember that your username and password are case sensitive.  The link to click to find your password is "Forgot Your Password." You will receive an e-mail with your username and password.  If you still have problems, please contact us at 513-956-4110, or email at ohgbike@nmss.org.
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How do I change my username and/or password?
First, log in to the site using your current username and password.  Once logged in, you will see a link called "Edit My Profile." Once in your profile, you will be able to change your contact information, e-mail address and username.  All changes will be made to your account immediately; there is no need to sign in again. To change your password, please contact us at 513-956-4110 and we will help you.
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FUNDRAISING
Is there a minimum fundraising requirement to participate?
Yes, each rider is required to raise a minimum of $300 in addition to the registration fee.  Last year, the average amount raised was more than $700 per rider. Volunteers may fundraise if they choose.  The minimum is due by packet pick up. To receive your rider number you must have turned in the minimum $300. If you have not met the minimum, you must sign a Promise to Pay Form. If you’ve registered online, you are set with the Participation Waiver. If not, a completed waiver will be required. ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST ALSO COMPLETE A CAMP KERN WAIVER.
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Where does the money go?
Your money helps fund national research for finding the cause and cure for multiple sclerosis, and supports programs and services offered to the nearly 6,000 people living with MS in the Ohio Valley area. 
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Who donates to me?
ANYONE can donate to you.  Participants can donate to themselves or ask co-workers, friends, neighbors, local businesses and family members to contribute.  Many companies support their employees. Be sure to ask your employer if they offer a matching gift program.
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People have asked me for a receipt.  What should I do?
For donations of $249 or less, you may download a printable receipt. We will also send a letter with the appropriate tax information to all donors who give over $250. (provided we have their correct name and mailing address information).
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Who do I make checks payable to?
Make checks payable to: National MS Society. In the memo section, please specify who the donation is for as well as the event, e.g. "John Q. Public / Bike MS Kern ".
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What if I don't want to mail my donations?
You may drop off your donations at the National Multiple Sclerosis Society, 4440 Lake Forest Dr., Suite 120, Cincinnati, OH  45242.

You can turn in checks and cash at packet pick up; however, it is recommended that you turn in donations as you receive them, so they can be entered quickly and reflected in your personal fundraising total. 

You can turn in checks and cash at packet pickup; however, it is recommended that you turn in donations as you receive them, so they can be entered quickly and reflected in your personal fundraising total. 
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I have received donations, but am unable to participate in Bike MS.
You can turn in donations and be eligible for prizes as if you were there the day of the ride. Simply mail your donations to the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and you will then receive information about how to receive prizes.
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How can I get more donation sheets?
Download pledge sheets here.

When do I turn in my pledges?
Pledges can be turned in anytime from now until September 30, 2015 to qualify for prizes. (You can continue to fundraise until September 30th, 2015.) Submit pledges online or mail to:

Bike MS 2015
National MS Society
4440 Lake Forest Drive, #120
Cincinnati, OH 45242

What is the deadline to meet my minimum requirement?
The minimum is due by packet pick up. To be able to receive your rider number you must have turned in the minimum $300. If you have not met the minimum you must sign a Promise to Pay Form. If you’ve registered online, you do not need to complete a Participation Waiver. If not, a completed waiver will be required. ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST ALSO COMPLETE A CAMP KERN WAIVER.

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What is a matching gift?
A matching gift is a gift from a donor's employer that matches the donor's original gift. Most employers match dollar for dollar. Please read carefully the guidelines of your employer's matching gift program. Also, check to see if your company only matches your individual donations. Some companies only match checks / cash from the employee and will not match all pledges turned in by the employee. Often companies have a minimum amount that you must donate before they match, such as $25.00.
How do I know if my employer has a matching gifts program?
Ask your human resources staff or visit your company's intranet.
Where do I get a matching gift form?
Forms are available only from your employer. If it's not clear whom to ask at your company, talk to your human resources staff.
What do I do with the form when I've filled it out?
Please include the name of the rider and the event somewhere on the form or in the purpose/gift designation field if your company has a web-based matching gift program. Including the rider's name and event will assist with quicker processing. Please turn in the form/request the match at the same time turning in the donation / pledge. This makes processing faster as well.

Please send all matching gift forms to:
National MS Society
Attn: Matching Gifts
4440 Lake Forest Drive, #120
Cincinnati, OH 45242


If I enter the donor's gift and the matching gift through my participant center, do I enter them as one gift (lump sum)?
No, they are two separate gifts. Please enter only the employee's gift and mail/electronically submit the matching gift form. The National MS Society will enter the match.

How will I know when the matching gift has been paid?
Check the "My Progress" section of your participant center. Gifts labeled “Unconfirmed” have not yet been received by the chapter. It usually takes several months to receive payment for matching gifts. Even though they are not yet paid, you will receive credit for matching gifts for prize purposes.

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My fundraising total in my Participant Center doesn't match what I know I turned in.
We may experience a 3-4 week delay entering donations during peak event times. Your total may be inflated if you entered donations as offline gifts; please go to the "My Progress" section and delete the "Unconfirmed" versions of duplicate gifts.
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I turned in my donations at the event but I don't see them in my Participant Center total.
It may take up to 10 business days for all of your donations to be credited to your Participant Center. If you'd like to see your donations right away, please ask your supporters to donate online.

Guidelines for Splitting a Donation between Multiple Participants
Teams often hold fundraising events for Bike MS and like each team member to receive a portion of the proceeds.  We are happy to help your fundraising efforts, but please follow these guidelines:
1. The designation of funds (amount and participant) needs to be included with the donation at the time it is turned in or mailed.
2. Funds being allocated must be at least $50 per participant.
3. Participants designated for funds must be registered at the time the donation is received.
4. The Recognition scroll will list the name of the fundraising participant (if applicable) as the donor. 
5. Retroactive designations are not allowed.  Once a donation has been processed by the chapter we cannot transfer it.  Refunds can be issued, but must be processed through our national office.
How can people donate to me online?
Once you've registered, you will receive a username and password. Return to the BikeMS.org website and enter in this information in the upper right corner. Once you have navigated to your participant center, select the Personal Page link in the top navigation on the far right. Then click on the Edit link on the right and you'll see "create a custom URL" at the very top of the page. Type your name (no spaces) and the current year (if you want) or other appropriate text in the box and save. Now you can copy this URL and send it in e-mails, attach it to e-signatures, etc.

I’ve never fundraised before, can someone help me?
Yes, contact Steven.Niemann@nmss.org and he will provide you with some great fundraising ideas to help you.

SAFETY
Are there special emergency numbers for the event?
In case of an emergency during the ride dial the phone number located on the back of your rider number. Dialing this number will notify event officials. We strongly recommend riders bring cell phones for additional safety measures.

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Will there be informational and/or route marking signs?
Bike MS provides cue sheets. Directional signs and road markings are placed at every turn along the route. 
We have signs providing guidance with turns and rest stops. They are there for your safety and assistance. Please note: These signs are posted the Friday before the Bike MS.
There are also road markings along the route and at every turn to help guide you in the right direction. Each arrow will have a mileage indicator. If you go more than a couple of miles without seeing a road sign, you may be off the route. Please note: These markers are placed the Friday before Bike MS. We will have route maps available at the start (Bellevue Beach Park) and at Camp Kern for to help you along the way.
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Will there be support and gear assistance (SAG)?
Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles will continually drive the route to check on cyclists. These volunteers are in direct communication with medical volunteer and event officials. SAGs are available to transport riders and their bikes to the next rest stop should a rider need medical of mechanical assistance. Do not be shy about taking advantage of SAG’s if you feel tired or need assistance.
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How do I signal a SAG vehicle?
To signal Support and Gear vehicle drivers, follow these three steps:
1. Get off the road - move out of the path of other riders.
2. Get off your bike - stand or sit nearby.
3. Wave your helmet to let the SAG drivers know you are not just taking a breather. (From a moving car, it is hard to distinguish a friendly wave from a call for help.)

Help our volunteer SAG drivers help you. Be aware that some of the official vehicles on the route are medical, staff, or communications vehicles and are not equipped to carry riders. In addition, at peak hours SAG vehicles may be full. We appreciate your patience.
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Will there be medical support?

Medical personnel will be available throughout event weekend at Rest Stops and in mobile units along the route (including the overnight stay and finish line). In the case of minor roadside situations, SAG drivers may transport riders to the next rest stop for assistance.

Bike Mechanics
Our bike shop partners will be available at all Rest Stops for those in need of assistance. Repairs will be free of charge..
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Can my child, infant or dog ride with me? 
Children can ride only if they register and are of the required age (12), but we ask that you keep infants and dogs off the route for everyone's safety. 

Can I have a friend or family member follow me in a vehicle while I ride?
NO!!!! Personal SAGS are absolutely prohibited. They cause congestion on the road as we try to eliminate as much traffic as possible. For the safety of our riders and vehicle drivers, do not have your friends and family follow you during the tour. All personal sags found on the route will be escorted off the course by law enforcement due to safety concerns. 
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ROUTE
What is the route?
We will do our best to post the route maps to the Download Center. Due to last minute route changes, which often happen because of road construction and other unforeseen circumstances, we cannot guarantee the route will be published or made available before the ride. Copies of the route for Saturday & Sunday will be available at check-in Saturday morning. 
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Are there rest stops along the ride?
Yes, there are rest stops every 8 to 12 miles.  Please refer to your cue sheets for rest stop locations. Every rest stop is supported with beverages and energizing snacks. Lunch is provided both days on the route.
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Is the route marked?
Yes, each day will have route markings painted on the road, as well as directional signage.
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How long does it take a rider to finish in a day?
It depends. The average cyclist rides from 8 to 12 miles per hour.  Please remember that Bike MS is not a race and everyone should ride at their own pace.
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What if I get tired at any time along the route?
Not a problem.  There are Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles along the route to assist you. 

What are the route options?

Saturday
25 Miles > TBD
50 Miles > From Bellevue Beach Park to Camp Kern
75 Miles > From Bellevue Beach Park to Camp Kern
100 Miles > From Bellevue Beach park to Camp Kern

** All ONE DAY ONLY riders will have the option to board a bus back to Bellevue Beach Park.
Bus transportation from Camp Kern to Bellevue Beach Park is available for a $15.00 transportation fee. Busses will be available at 3:00 p.m. 5:30 p.m. & 8:00 p.m.
To reserve transportation times, please email Rebekah.Schraer@nmss.org          
**If you chose to return to Bellevue Beach Park on Saturday, there will not be a bus available to take you to Camp Kern on Sunday.
Sunday
25 Miles > From Camp Kern
**Riders will have the option to board a bus to Bellevue Beach Park or arrange for their own transportation
50 Miles > From Camp Kern to Bellevue Beach Park
75 Miles > From Camp Kern to Bellevue Beach Park

Transportation from Camp Kern to Bellevue Beach Park on Sunday will be available at 9 a.m. & 1 p.m.
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TEAMS
How do I go about forming a team?

All you need is a minimum of four people and a team name.  For more information, call 513-956-4110, if you want to form your team, register online. As your teammates register, have them click on Join an Existing Team and then search for your team name. If you have already registered as an Individual Rider, please call 513-956-4110 and we will be happy to create your team for you or place you on an existing team.

I don’t belong to a team, can I still ride?
Absolutely, you can ride as an individual. If you are interested in joining a team, email Steven.Niemann@nmss.org and he will help you.
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EVENT WEEKEND
Will parking be available?
Parking will be available for all Bike MS participants, staff and volunteers.

Can I leave my vehicle at the Start location for the weekend?
We ask that you please carpool if possible. Please park in your assigned lot. Abide by all parking laws; we are not responsible for any parking fines acquired. Once you park, proceed to the assigned luggage drop off area in your lot and proceed to the Start location. The local police will be patrolling the lots at the Start/Finish location throughout the weekend.
What do I do with my overnight luggage or camping equipment?
We will transport your luggage to Camp Kern. Each rider is limited to two pieces of luggage including your tent; make sure each item is labelled with your rider number. Luggage will be loaded into the supply truck. You will receive your numbered luggage at Packet Pick Up. Please ensure your luggage tags are attached securely.
Luggage Pick Up, Saturday at Camp Kern
Luggage will be stored inside Schiewetz Assembly Hall.
Luggage Drop Off, Sunday at Bellevue Beach Park
Luggage will be loaded into supply truck, Please ensure your luggage tags are attached securely.

No luggage will be accepted after 8:30 a.m. Please allow ample time to drop-off your luggage.   
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Will food and beverages be provided?

We provide all riders with a variety of food options from fruit, pasta, energy bars, sandwiches and snacks to sports drinks, water and much more. If you have special dietary needs or allergies, please pack any additional food you may need for the weekend as we are not able to accommodate all dietary restrictions.
The ride provides food, beverages and lunch along the route both days. Water, energy drinks and light snacks are available at every rest stop. All Bike MS participants and volunteers can enjoy dinner on Saturday evening and breakfast and lunch on Sunday. 

I'm a vegetarian.  Will there be food choices available to me?
YES! There will be a variety of options including a vegetarian selection that will fulfill your needs. 
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Can my family come for the weekend and support me?                                
Family, friends and team support are welcome to join us at the start/finish area, rest stops and the overnight.  For families and friends who are not volunteering who wish to have dinner and/or breakfast please visit the Welcome/Information booth to purchase tickets.
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Where will my bike be kept overnight?
There will be a designated area for bike storage; however, this area will not be locked or enclosed. Please bring your own personal locks to secure your bike in this area. Bike may also be kept at your personal tent. Bikes are not permitted in cabins due to fire hazards.
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Where do I stay for the overnight?
4 options:

• Camp at Camp Kern (Tents count as luggage piece). Showers and toilets will be provided.
• Reserve a cabin bed at Camp Kern, $32 overnight fee applies upon registration.
• Stay with a friend and relative who lives close by (must be back to Camp Kern Sunday by 6:30am).
• Book a room at one of the nearby hotels (participant is responsible for own reservations & transportation)

  All Riders are responsible for arranging their own accommodations during the Bike MS.

   

   

  MISCELLANEOUS
  I can't ride on Saturday. Can I join in on Sunday?
  Sure, you must transport yourself to the start on Sunday morning at Camp Kern before 6:30 a.m.
  Can I be added to a team if I didn't indicate I was on a team when I registered?
  YES! You can be added to a team anytime by calling/emailing Steve Niemann:
  (513-956-4110) or Steven.Niemann@nmss.org.
  Packet Pickups
  To be able to receive your rider number you must have turned in the minimum. If you have not met the minimum you must sign a Promise to Pay Form. If you’ve registered online, you are set with the Participation Waiver. If not, a completed waiver will be required. ALL PARTICIPANTS MUST ALSO COMPLETE A CAMP KERN WAIVER.
  
  When do we get our Bike MS t-shirts?
  At all packet pick-ups. Check website for the Packet Pick-Up schedule.
  What to Bring
  Each rider is limited to two pieces of luggage including your tent. Please help us conserve space by limiting your bags to no more than 25lbs each. Thank you
  On the Ride
  Helmet
  Water bottle
  Sunglasses
  Sunscreen
  Personal ID and medical insurance cards
  Money
  
  For Overnight if Staying at Camp Kern
  
  Toiletries, towel and washcloth
  Pillow and sleeping bag and/or tent for those camping outside at Camp Kern
  
  What if I have additional luggage?
  Camping, Cabin lodging & Team Tent set-up is available at Camp Kern from 5 -9 p.m. on Friday, August 21. All items must be removed from the Camp Kern cabins by 2:30 p.m. Sunday, August 23.

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