OUT OF DATE

It started with an “idea man” …

Thomas Pendelton, City of Ann Arbor Bicycle Coordinator, Peter Lagerwey, and Sally Janacek were driving home from a professional bicycling conference in Iowa, and were discussing the fact that there should be a ride similar to RAGBRAI across the state of Michigan. This kind of ride would be good for cycling and good for Michigan. They brainstormed a name and decided to plan a ride.

“Tom has a big personality and is a good idea man that people are willing to follow.”

The idea of Pedal Across Lower Michigan (PALM) was to be open to all cyclists, especially novice riders and families. The first annual ride was June 20-25, 1982, and was sponsored by the Great Lakes Bicycle Council with the assistance of Metropolitan Detroit Council of American Youth Hostels; Southwestern Michigan Regional Planning Commission, South-Central Michigan Planning Council and the Southeast Michigan Council of Governments.

Michigan is considered by many to be the prime vacation/recreation state in the Midwest. Bicycling is an unsurpassed way to experience the pleasures of such a state. We hope that by involving up to 500 people in bicycle touring, they may think about using bicycles more in their everyday lives. At the same time, thousands of Michigan citizens will encounter PALM participants during the tour. We hope that this will increase their consciousness about safe bicycling too.
PALM registration form, 1982

A group of dedicated volunteers lead the steering committee for PALM and meet monthly beginning in September to review the previous year’s ride and begin the planning for the next year. The cooperation among the diverse staff volunteers has been extraordinary. PALM continues to attract riders of all ages and abilities.

PALM TODAY

PALM begins along the shore of beautiful Lake Michigan and heads east along a different route from the previous year. Typical routing includes paved, lesser used roads and generally avoids major urban areas. We try to choose roads with shoulders and a smooth surface, however, you may encounter heavier traffic due to urban sprawl, road construction, and/or limited routing choices . The total distance of the ride is between 250 and 300 miles. Daily rides range from 30-60 miles averaging approximately 50 miles. We also provide longer optional routes each day (except Friday).

Schools along the route serve as our overnight stops. We camp on their grounds and use their facilities for showers and meals. Trucks transport our luggage from site to site. SAG vehicles support our riders during the day. Bike shops accompany the tour and can make repairs in the evening.

MISSION STATEMENT:
Pedal Across Lower Michigan (PALM) is a non-profit group dedicated to encouraging family bicycling and the promotion of bicycling safety.