Thousands of RAGBRAI riders roll into Charles City

(ABC 6 News) – RAGBRAI is the oldest, largest, and longest recreational touring bicycle ride in the world.

Riders started this year’s trek across the state on Sunday, and after Thursday’s stop they have two more days of riding to go.

The total route is roughly 450-mile ride with bicyclists pedaling close to 50 miles a day.

Riders rolled out of Mason City Thursday morning for Charles City where they’re setting up camp for the evening.

Food vendors, live music, and plenty of shopping and entertainment was ready for the over 30,000 cyclists to enjoy..

The bikers get a lot of the attention during RAGBRAI, but it’s the volunteers like the ones here in Charles City that make this event possible.

“Charles City has hosted several times, I think this is maybe number seven. And we always have good positive results. We have tons of volunteers that come out and volunteer in the community,” RAGBRAI Information Committee member said.

“All the volunteers that make sure everyone’s safe and gets here, I just want to say thank you to them. They did a great job,” added RABGRAI rider George Jessen.

But, the work for these volunteers isn’t over yet as there are two more days of RAGBRAIto go.

Friday morning, the bikers will leave Charles City and will pedal over 60 miles to West Union with some stops along the way.