Get on your bike and explore marvellous Melbourne in the summer time!

On Sunday 20 February, thousands of cyclists will take to the street to pedal for a cause as part of the 2011 Melbourne Summer Cycle. The event, now in its fifth year, is fast becoming the city's iconic bike ride, attracting cyclists of all ages and abilities, from family groups to corporate teams; serious cyclists to recreational riders.

Last year more than 5,000 people took part, raising more than $630,000 for MS Australia. This year the goal is to have 7,000 participants and raise $750,000 for over 20,000 Australians living with multiple sclerosis.

The ride begins and ends in Carlton's Princes Park, taking in the streets of the CBD and Port Melbourne, leading up to a full-effort climb up the West Gate Bridge and a speedy descent down the other side, then winds along the waterfront of Williamstown before returning via Footscray to Princes Park.

Event manager Heather Rendell encourages people who are considering the ride but concerned about the distance to jump on their bike and give it a go. "While your legs and body do feel the effects of a 40km ride, you will know you are helping support people living with multiple sclerosis," she says.

"It's a fun, family-friendly ride with that great feeling of camaraderie and sense of community that comes from this type of a fundraising event," Ms Rendell says.

Participants can relax after the ride at the finish site, where they can benefit from the on-site massage services to ease those tired legs and then enjoy the live entertainment and food stalls - a perfect end to a fun-filled and rewarding day.

Want to join the fun and get involved in the Melbourne Summer Cycle?

- Visit www.melbournesummercycle.org.au to enter, then start or join an existing team.

- If you're unable to ride, why not ask a family member, friend or colleague to ride on your behalf? You can offer to help set up the team online, rally support and perhaps coordinate some fundraising to go towards the team's total.

- Support a team online by making a donation and/or alert your family, friends and colleagues to such a good cause. Every cent counts!

- Have you considered volunteering? There's something for everyone so give us a call on 1300 705 340 to talk about the opportunities available.

EVENT INFORMATION:

WHEN: Sunday 20 February 2011
START TIME: 7.00 - 8.15am (staggered start)
WHERE: Princes Park, Cnr Royal Pde & Walker St Carlton North, Mel Ref: 29 G12
DISTANCE: 40km

COST - EARLY ENTRY: (on or before 31 Jan)
Adult: $45
Child: $25
Family A (1 adult & 2 children): $85
Family B (2 adults & 2 children): $115

COST - LATE ENTRY:
(after 31 Jan) Adult: $55
Child: $30
Family A (1 adult & 2 children): $100
Family B (2 adults & 2 children): $140

ONLINE REGISTRATION:
www.melbournesummercycle.org.au

WHY: To raise $750,000 for people living with multiple sclerosis.

Funds raised directly contribute to the ongoing provision of programs, equipment and services for people with MS while the search for a cure continues.

ABOUT MS: MS is a disease that affects the Central Nervous System

About 20,000 Australians have been diagnosed with MS, with an additional 1,000 diagnosed each year.

About one in 20 Australians will be directly impacted through a diagnosed family member, friend or colleague.

Most people are in their 20s and 30s when first diagnosed.