Register’s Annual Great Bike Ride Across Iowa (RAGBRAI®)

Adaptive Sports Iowa (ASI) recognized that cyclists with disabilities face many barriers that limit the accessibility of  RAGBRAI. ASI organized this team to reduce the impact of these barriers and make RAGBRAI accessible and enjoyable to cyclists with disabilities. The team was first organized in 2011 and consisted of 24 riders, 11 of which had physical or visual disabilities. Today, our team regularly reaches up to 80 riders with 30 or more riders with disabilities. Since our first ride, we have looked to increase our numbers and provide a great experience for those that love cycling. Thanks to our generous sponsors and volunteers, RAGBRAI has become a strong tradition for the Adaptive Sports Iowa Cycling Team.

Eligibility

In order to participate in RAGBRAI as a member of the Adaptive Sports Iowa Cycling Team Presented by Iowa Farm Bureau, we require all cyclists to be able to self-propel or physically assist in the population of a cycle. We approach RAGBRAI as a major endurance event and our cyclists need to be prepared accordingly.

Application

• Adaptive Riders: https://event.sportreach.com/asi-cycling-team-adaptive-rider-application-2027
• Volunteers: https://event.sportreach.com/asi-cycling-team-volunteer-application-2027

Guides: 

• Adaptive Riders: Adobe Acrobat – 2027 RAGBRAI Adaptive Rider Guide (1).pdf
• Volunteers: Adobe Acrobat – 2027 RAGBRAI Volunteer Guide.pdf

• October 2 | Applications Open
• November 8 | Applications Close: Applications submitted after this date will automatically go to the waitlist or be reviewed only if spots remain open.
• November 9–13 | Application Review: Applications will be evaluated by our review team. (Note: Individuals not accepted onto the ASI team are still warmly encouraged to participate in RAGBRAI individually or with another group!)
• November 14 | Notification Day: All applicants will receive notification of their application status via email.
• November 15 | RAGBRAI Registration Opens: All accepted team members must register directly with RAGBRAI once approved.

• Meeting Town Supervisor: Oversees set-up, teardown, volunteer shifts, and lunch flow at the mid-day stop.
• Meeting Town Support: Assists riders in meeting towns with food, water, KYBO access, navigation, and half-day rider handoffs.
• SAG Driver: Drives support vehicles on-route for medical or mechanical needs; coordinates closely with the Director and Nurse.
• Overnight Truck Driver: Drives gear trucks between host towns, assists with equipment/tote unloading, and maintains morning/evening schedules.
• Overnight Crew Support: Helps unload gear, set up camp, and direct riders in overnight host towns.
• Loading/Unloading Supervisor: Oversees morning and evening luggage operations, enforces tote weight limits, and directs truck packing.
• Loading/Unloading Support: Handles daily heavy lifting, gear loading, and camp setup/teardown.
• Team Nurse: Manages basic medical/first-aid needs, rider records, and medication support mid-day and overnight.
• Volunteer Rider: Rides on-course alongside assigned adaptive athletes to provide pacing, navigation, and emergency support (must be conditioned for 40–70 miles/day).
• Specific Rider Support: Serves as dedicated 1-on-1 support for a specific adaptive athlete throughout the week (on-course or in camp).

Amenities

All Adaptive Sports Iowa Cycling Team Presented by Iowa Farm Bureau members with physical and visual disabilities are provided the following amenities:

• Team cycling jersey
• Accessible transportation from Des Moines to the starting location, and from the ending location back to Des Moines
• SAG Crew to help transport overnight essentials between overnight stay locations
• Support crew and vehicles to transfer wheelchairs and other essential equipment
• Accommodations for overnights that are indoors and accessible

Overnight Locations

2027 RAGBRAI® ROUTE- TBD

Training Program

Click Here to view the RAGBRAI Training Program 

Packing List

You can download the packing list here: CLICK HERE TO DOWNLOAD

DAILY NEEDS:

Water Bottle, All-in-one Tool, Bike Lock, Camera, Electrical Tape, Road ID, Helmet, Patch Kit, Spare Tube, Tire Lever, Pump or air cartridge, Cycling Gloves, Appropriate footwear, Portable electronic device, Charger, Plastic waterproof case, Ziploc case, Zip Ties, Cash/Credit Card, Health Insurance Card & ID, Sunscreen/Lip Balm, Toilet Paper, Air Mattress, Catheter Supplies

CLOTHING:

Hat, Cycling/Riding shorts (2-3 pair), Sunglasses, Swim Suit, T-Shirts (2-3), Underwear (3-5), Shorts (1-2 pair), Pants (1), Rain Jacket, Biking Shoes, Biking Socks, Cycling Gloves, Sandals/Casual Shoes

TOILETRIES:

Prepackaged Wipes, Disposable Razor, Eye-Drops, Q-Tips, Shampoo, Anti-Chaffing lotion, Soap, Deodorant, Soap to wash clothes, Toilet Paper, Tooth Brush & Toothpaste, Prescriptions, Band-Aids

MISC:

Bug Spray, Ear Plugs, Gum, Ziploc Bags, Sleeping Bag or Sheets, Small Pillow, Towel

DO NOT PACK:

Cooler, More than one bike, more than one overnight bag/tote, Camping Gear

POSSIBLE THERAPEUTIC OUTCOMES:

• Increased joint mobility, muscle movement, and circulation
• Improved core control, coordination, and balance
• Increased sense of independence
• Increased social connections through in-person events and Facebook group
• Maintain healthy weight
• Improved cardiovascular endurance and overall health
• Reduced stress and anxiety through increased endorphins
• Improved sleep quality
• Improved alertness, concentration, and overall cognitive function
• More effective communication skills