Life Cycle

This summer, thousands of people will once again strap on helmets and embark on the bike ride of the year. But it doesn't matter who finishes first or last. Pelotonia-and its riders-have only one goal: support cancer research and awareness. Its riders choose one of six distances, from 25 to 180 miles, and, based on their mileage, commit to raising $1,200 to $2,200. Now in its fourth year, the event has raised more than $25 million for the Ohio State University Comprehensive Cancer Center–James Cancer Hospital and Solove Research Institute. New for 2012 is the starting location, the Columbus Commons. An opening ceremony at the park will allow riders to get together and celebrate with loved ones before hopping on their wheels for the cause. "People need community," said Kelley Griesmer, chief operating officer of Pelotonia. "Cancer is a disease where people need people."

The 2012 Pelotonia is Aug. 10 to 12. For more, visit Pelotonia.org.

The bike shown is a Trek Madone 4.5 and is available at all three Central Ohio Trek stores for $2,200.