Spin with the Stretchies

If you have ever wanted to go for a recovery ride with professional cyclists without worrying about getting dropped, Spin with the Stretchies might be one of Tucson’s most unique group rides.

Hosted by the Homestretch Foundation, the Friday morning ride brings local cyclists together with the professional and elite athletes staying in Tucson through Homestretch. The resident athletes are affectionately known as the “Stretchies.” Homestretch was founded by former professional cyclist Kathryn Bertine to help professional and elite athletes pursue their careers by reducing some of the financial barriers that come with competing at the highest levels.

This is definitely not a pro training ride. It is deliberately a slow recovery spin, limited to about 15 mph, covering roughly 15 flat miles through northeast Tucson. The ride lasts about an hour, is no-drop and is open to everyone. The whole idea is conversation and community. Riders are encouraged to ride alongside someone they don’t know, giving everyday Tucson cyclists an unusual opportunity to pedal and talk with professional and elite athletes from around the world.

Afterward, everyone heads into Le Buzz Caffe for coffee, pastries and more conversation.

When: Fridays, December through March
Time: 10:00 AM
Distance: About 15 miles / 60 minutes
Pace: Recovery pace, 15 mph maximum
Start/Finish: Original Le Buzz Caffe, 9191 E. Tanque Verde Road
Ride: No drop, easy and social
Requirements: Helmet and comfortable riding two abreast

One important note for 2026: Homestretch is taking a sabbatical, so the ride is currently on hiatus. The Foundation says Spin with the Stretchies returns in December 2026 and runs through March 2027.

For a city filled with fast group rides, this one is refreshingly different. You may find yourself riding next to an Olympian or professional cyclist, but nobody is trying to drop you. The point is to slow down, spin the legs, have a conversation and finish with coffee.