The Hardy Toll Road is free today ย of cars, that is! Itยs also free of charge if youยre on a bike and with the Tour de Houston. The ride, now in its fourth year, highlights different areas of Houston each time it rolls around. This year, the north side will get some love as the 70-mile, 40-mile and 20-mile treks venture as far as Humble. The ride is great for those gearing up for the MS-150. Houston may not have the lush backdrop of France, but at least our cityยs lack of elevation will guarantee you donยt have to worry about any steep uphill climbs. Registration begins at 6 a.m.; first race starts at 7 a.m. Hermann Square, 901 Bagby. For information, call 713ย247ย3500 or visit
www.tourdehouston.org. $15 to $35.
Sat., March 15, 6 a.m., 2008
This article appears in Mar 13-19, 2008.