Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
To help those interested in BRAN, we have compiled a list of frequently asked questions and their answers. Please review the lists below.
If you still have questions, don’t hesitate to email us at info@BRAN-inc.org, and we’ll get back to you soon.
General FAQ
How do I register for the ride?
We will update this section as soon as BRAN registration goes live. Thanks for your patience.
I can only get away to ride for certain days; is that possible?
Yes, there are multi-day options for BRAN again this year. We offer a 7-day tour, 4-day tour or a 3-day tour.
What is included in my registration fees?
Your registration includes access to outdoor camping or RV spaces, hot showers, baggage transportation from overnight town to the next for the entire week, aid stations with hydration and basic nutrition, access to bike mechanics as needed, access to sag vehicles as needed, medical support, and an end of ride luncheon.
Does BRAN provide refunds?
BRAN has a NO REFUND policy with no exceptions. If you have concerns about receiving a refund and you are not able to participate, then you should consider purchasing Travel Insurance on your own.
BRAN will ONLY offer a refund if the BRAN Ride Director cancels the ride.
How do we pick up our packets?
- Information will be emailed to all registered participants, including a PDF copy of the riders book.
- Full packet will be provided during check-in.
Is Registration open on the first day of the ride?
Registration on the first day is available ONLY if the ride has space available.
How many people ride on BRAN?
We typically have between 300 and 400 bicyclists who participate in BRAN.
How do I get information about BRAN?
- BRAN stands for “Bicycle Ride Across Nebraska.” It is a once-a-year opportunity to visit the sites and enjoy the small-town hospitality of Nebraska from the seat of your bicycle.
- Proceeds from the ride are used to fund scholarships at post-secondary schools in Nebraska (Nebraska students attending Nebraska schools).
- Information about the ride itself can be obtained here at the FAQ site, our website or EMAIL US
Who is the ride designed for?
BRAN is a multi-day bike tour designed and run by bicyclists for bicyclists.
It’s a supported ride for able-bodied bicyclists who want shared miles, open country, and fewer crowds.
Is BRAN a rain or shine ride?
Yes, the ride is rain or shine. During severe inclement weather, we will have support vehicles to transport riders to safety.
What kinds of bicycles are allowed on the ride?
All bicycles are welcome on the ride so long as they have two working brakes and are in good working order.
Are e-bikes allowed on the ride?
Yes, E-bike riders are welcome so long as their bicycles conform to Nebraska state law. Please be aware of your E-bike’s battery pack limits for long day riding – and bring a backup if necessary.
Note that we do have a charging station in each overnight town. Contact us for details.
Are pets allowed?
No. To respect the space of other participants, pets are not permitted on the camping or headquarters sites. Thank you for understanding.
For service animal exceptions, please contact the BRAN Ride Director by EMAIL
Are teams allowed to ride?
Yes!
Teams are not only allowed to ride, but we also encourage corporate, organizational, and hobby teams to join us!
How can I find out more information on Nebraska?
Visit www.VisitNebraska.gov or call 877-NEBRASKA
Beginning the Ride
How do I get out to the starting point?
- BRAN arranges a Charter Service to take the rider, and luggage to the starting point. This Service is indicated on the registration form for an additional fee. You must sign up for this when you register as the number of seats are limited. We cannot take day of bus registrations. You are responsible for getting yourself to the bus departure point on time.
- You can drive to the starting point or carpool with other riders. You may have a friend or family member drop you off at the start town. If you bring a vehicle that will be with you all week then you need to register that vehicle.
- If you do not wish to ride the bus out, you can post your travel needs on the BRAN Facebook page to see if any other riders from your area are going and if you might arrange to ride with them.
How do I get my bike to the starting point?
If you ride the BRAN buses, a separate truck will take your bike to the starting point. If you are not riding the bus, you will be responsible for transporting your bike to the starting point.
How do I get my bike to the starting point if I live out-of-state or don’t want to ride the bus?
In the past, many riders have arranged with Nebraska-area bike shops to mail their bikes to the starting point. Others have made their situations known on our BRAN Facebook page and have made arrangements with other riders going on the tour. Or contact the ride start town and arrange to ship your bike directly to them.
I need someone to drive my car to the starting point. Can BRAN help?
Please post your needs on the BRAN Facebook page. We have had people volunteer to help out with driving when they see those needs.
What time does the BRAN bus leave?
The busses will depart promptly at 8:00 am. Please arrive 1 to 1 ½ hours early to allow time to park your vehicle, get your bike on the bike transport and then check in with our BRAN bus coordinators prior to putting your baggage and getting yourself on the bus.
Where do I park my car if I want to leave it at the bus departure point?
There will be designated parking for BRAN participants taking the bus from the End Town to the Start Town.
Parking will be in a designated area. A signed waiver is required to leave your car for the week, and will be provided on the day by the BRAN crew.
Is there a place for me to leave my car at the first host community?
Further instructions will be issued in the spring for riders who want to leave their car in the first host town. If you are considering this, please e-mail us at info@bran-inc.org
What do I need to bring for check in?
Please bring your government-issued ID or Driver’s License. Check-in is at 2:00 pm on the Saturday before the ride in the Start Town for week-long riders and any 3-day or 4-day riders starting in the Start Town.
All riders will receive an email from info@bran-inc.org about 1-2 weeks prior to the ride with all pertinent ride information.
Can I camp at the departure point before buses leave for the Start Town?
There will be a designated area in Start Town for overnight camping. There will be a Port-A-John there and a couple of our BRAN volunteers will be there to let you know where to camp.
BRAN Registration
Is online registration available?
- Yes! The link and necessary waiver will be available through this website once it’s active.
What are the full week, 3-day or 4-day ride options?
Details coming soon!
How much does BRAN cost?
Pricing and other info coming soon!
Is Registration open on the first day of the ride?
We encourage individuals and groups to register early. Registration on the first day is available ONLY if the ride is not filled to capacity.
How do I register the person(s) who will be driving (or riding in) my car during the tour and providing private support?
Private support vehicles must register. All drivers must be registered and sign the BRAN Agreement, Waiver and Release of Liability.
There is a field on the registration form for car registration.
A BRAN Agreement, Waiver and Release of Liability must be signed by all additional passengers in your vehicle.
How do I know if I have been accepted for the tour? What kind of confirmation is given?
When using online registration, you will receive an automatic email notification at the time of registration.
How long does it take to receive the BRAN packet and Tour Guide after registration/fees are sent in?
Packets will be emailed out mid-May. Please watch for emails from info@bran-inc.org
How can I help to sponsor BRAN?
As a nonprofit organization, BRAN is dedicated to offering one of Nebraska’s best multi-day biking experiences at an affordable cost.
Individual and corporate sponsors help keep registration fees affordable so more riders can participate. When you sponsor BRAN, you’re supporting the Nebraska’s longest-running bicycle tour. Contact us today to discuss options.
You can also choose to support additional scholarships for the host towns that welcome BRAN along the route!
To learn how you can get involved as a sponsor, please email our leadership team at info@bran-inc.org
Accommodations & Amenities
What about sleeping accommodations?
- BRAN is a camping tour. Each rider is expected to provide for their own sleeping arrangements. Most riders bring a tent to sleep in. BRAN arranges for riders and support personnel to camp on high school football fields or in their city parks. In the event of inclement weather (i.e. heavy rains, thunderstorms, tornadoes, snow, etc.), facilities will be provided.
- Each of the host towns will designate camping areas and places for those requiring RV parking. Riders may choose to bring their own gear and set up in the basic camping space at no charge; other for-fee options include charter tent and cabin services provided by our partners at Pork Bellies LLC. Our registration page contains links for those wishing to charter a tent or cabin.
- Some towns/cities have hotel/motel/Bed & Breakfast accommodations as well. Anyone interested in such lodging is responsible for making their own reservations.
- In the past some churches have allowed riders to stay in their basements. Again, this kind of arrangement would depend on what the host community provides. Check with the Host Community contact to confirm if they will be offering this service.
Do I have to carry my own gear?
No. A baggage truck transports your luggage/camping gear to each host town. The luggage is lined up and riders claim their gear when they get in from the day’s ride.
How is my gear tagged?
Please put a durable luggage tag on your gear with your name and contact information. You are limited to 2 bags.
What time do we have to get up in the morning?
You can wake up whenever you want to, but you are required to take down your tent, pack your gear, and get it to the Baggage Trailer each day so that it can be taken to the next town. We will post the baggage drop-off time once it is determined (usually by 8:00 am).
DO NOT START TO RIDE BEFORE DAYLIGHT!
Where do we eat/get food on the tour?
It’s always a good idea to check your Tour Guide for food options. The host towns will provide breakfast/dinner at a cost. Many of the churches and civic organizations plan buffets, potlucks, etc. There are also restaurants in the towns/cities on tour. A city/town along the way may set up a luncheon (at cost to the rider).
The BRAN SAG support also offers fruit/water and other snacks on the tour. Donations are welcome for these supplies. There are also convenience stores along the way most days of the tour, as well as bake sales and other food booths supplied by various civic/school organizations.
What do we do during the day and in the evening after the ride?
- Check the Tour Guide for interesting stops on the ride. In the Host Communities, people will get a nap in after riding all day or will take advantage of whatever the town has to offer for entertainment. There are several options for grub, ranging from Potlucks to local restaurants. The evening is also a great time to meet new friends and have fun!
- We work closely with our overnight towns to create a festival area in each, complete with food and beverage, live entertainment (if available), and culture unique to that town. As the towns complete their planning, we will provide updates on our website and Facebook page. Be sure to click ‘follow’ us on Facebook to get the latest updates.
What if I need service done on my bike?
We recommend riders carefully check their bikes each day to make sure there are no thorns/glass, or other debris in their tires and the bike is in prime running order for the following day.
We intend to have a dedicated bike shop that travels with us and can meet most of your cycling needs.
Is there internet access available on the ride?
Internet access can be limited along parts of the BRAN route. Some areas of rural Nebraska still have weak or unreliable cell and data coverage for smartphones.
Many of our overnight communities, schools, and host facilities occasionally offer Wi-Fi or open their computer labs so riders can check email, send messages, and stay in touch.
We encourage all riders to plan ahead and not rely on constant connectivity during the week. Let family and coworkers know your access may be limited, download and print off what you need in advance, and always make safety your first priority when using devices on or near the road.
Is there an emergency phone number for people to use who have to reach someone on BRAN?
Yes.
The BRAN Emergency Number is 402-344-4120. Please add this to your phone’s contacts, so you have it handy in the event of an emergency.
Will someone wake us up in the morning?
No.
Individuals are responsible for waking up on their own. However, he sound of tent zippers, chatting in the campsite, and other noises usually wake folks up in a hurry.
If you are a heavy sleeper or sleep away from the main campground area, you will need a travel alarm or someone to wake you up.
Are showers available in each town?
YES!
As part of your registration fee, showers will be available at each campsite in partnership with Pork Belly Ventures. The cost is included in your registration fee.
Are there any dump stations along the route?
Individuals needing RV services are advised to check with the individual host communities for details.
Are laundry facilities available?
There are Laundromats in some of the towns we will stay in, and some of the host homes allow riders to wash/dry their clothing.
Most riders choose to bring enough clothing for the entire tour.
Is there medical support while on tour?
- Yes. We have a nurse that can be seen at the Camp Director Headquarters after the days ride to get limited medical aid.
- If a rider is injured on the road, BRAN staff will call an ambulance to transport the rider to the nearest medical facility.
- If a rider is unable to continue due to fatigue, a designated SAG vehicle will be available to provide assistance. Please remember that support vehicles are intended for unexpected needs, so we strongly encourage all riders to train and prepare for the demands of a weeklong ride.
Is there on-road support?
- Yes. We have roving SAGs and stationary SAGs that follow the riders on tour. All riders receive course maps, sag wagon support as needed, course markings, fully stocked aid stations, medical support and mechanical support each day of the ride.
- All riders should know how to fix a flat tire and carry the necessary tools and spare tubes. However, if you feel that you lack this knowledge or are physically unable to do this, a support person or bike shop can help you when they are available. In many cases, more experienced riders will help you change your tire. To prevent most flats, make sure tires are properly inflated and free of thorns, etc.
- Please be sure your bike is fully serviced and ready prior to the ride.
Am I allowed my own SAG?
Yes. While BRAN provides a SAG free of charge, we do permit riders to be supported by their own SAG. Note that independent SAG drivers will be charged a nominal fee of $100 to access our campsite, use the Pork Belly showers, and other services. We charge this amount to ensure our insurance covers all participants and support personnel.
Occasionally, the route may not permit individual SAGs to operate on the same road as the riders. In those cases, we will provide an alternate vehicle route and ask the rider to rely upon the BRAN-provided SAG.
At the Rider’s Meeting on Saturday before the ride begins, we will provide updates on the routes, and we ask that your SAG driver attend as well.
It is critical that everyone participating in BRAN follow all rules and signage.
Are the roads closed to traffic?
No. All roads are open to vehicle traffic throughout the ride. However, we work closely with law enforcement agencies across jurisdictions to provide the safest possible ride.
Are there restroom facilities on the road?
Restrooms are not formally provided by BRAN along the route. On most days, the route passes through small towns with gas stations, convenience stores, or other public facilities where riders can use the restroom and refill supplies.
Some riders also choose to make quick nature stops when necessary. If you do so, you must be respectful of both private and public property and follow all laws in the state of Nebraska and in the communities we ride through. Please be discreet, leave no trace, and consider carrying a small amount of toilet paper and hand sanitizer in your bag.
Occasionally, residents along the route may offer riders the use of their restrooms, at their discretion.
What can I do if I want to take off a jacket or pants that I’ve worn in the cool early morning but don’t want to carry them on the bike?
You can give them to a stationary SAG and pick them up at Camp Headquarters after the days ride.
Sharing Photos & Memories
How do I share my pictures on the Photo Gallery?
If you are comfortable uploading your own photos, email the BRAN leadership team at info@bran-inc.org
What do I do if I don’t feel comfortable doing the upload?
If you would prefer not to do the upload yourself, you can forward the photos to info@bran-inc.org and we will get them posted.
Making BRAN a Better Ride
How can I help to sponsor and support BRAN?
BRAN is a nonprofit organization committed to offering one of Nebraska’s best multi-day biking experiences at an affordable cost.
As a sponsor, you can help keep registration fees low so more riders can participate, or choose to support additional scholarships for the host towns that welcome BRAN along the route.
For more information on how you can help, please contact our leadership team at info@bran-inc.org
How can I volunteer to help BRAN?
Volunteers are a big part of what makes Bicycle Ride Across Nebraska special. If you want to be involved without riding, there are many opportunities and ways to assist.
BRAN is supported by a core crew with years of experience, and we are always glad to welcome a few more helping hands. Whether you are available for the entire week or just a day or two, we can match you with a role that fits your schedule. Many volunteers are family members of riders who travel along and pitch in when they have free time.
If you are interested in volunteering, please contact us at info@bran-inc.org
2025 BRAN Sponsors & Partners
The Bicycle Ride Across Nebraska is a non-profit, registered 501c3 organization. Our committee is made up of volunteers who work year-round to bring you the best biking experience in Nebraska. Sponsors help us to operate efficiently and keep the registration price as low as possible. Please consider them in all your future needs.. If you are interested in sponsoring, supporting, or volunteering for BRAN 43, please CONTACT US!









