Ride a BOMBA

A day of sport and nature in the Bolognese Apennines

Ride a BOMBA is the social ride event of the Bologna Mountain Bike Area (BOM.BA), the mountain bike area that crosses the Tuscan-Emilian Apennines in the municipality of San Benedetto Val di Sambro, in Emilia-Romagna. The heart of the event is the picturesque Castel dell'Alpi lake, a small hamlet nestled among the woods of the Bolognese mountains, which for one day becomes the meeting point for cycling enthusiasts, families, and the curious.

What is a social ride

Unlike a race, a social ride is a non-competitive gathering: the goal is not performance, but the pleasure of cycling together and sharing a passion for nature in an informal and welcoming setting. It is the format through which the BOM.BA project promotes its trails and a model of slow, sustainable tourism in the Apennine woods, between the provinces of Bologna and Florence.

Routes and activities

The day offers various experiences designed for every level and every type of bike:

• Lake Trail: an all-mountain loop around the lake, with natural trails, technical sections, and stunning views of the Apennines;
• All Star: an inclusive and accessible route, also suitable for handbikes and tandems;
• Guided walk along the Bologna Mountain Art Trail, for those who prefer to explore the area on foot;
• E-bike rental and trial, to get into mountain biking even without experience;
• Information point on the Bologna Mountain Bike Area project.

The Bologna Mountain Bike Area project

Born from the commitment of local enthusiasts, the BOM.BA project involves four municipalities in the Bolognese Apennines — Loiano, Monzuno, Monghidoro, and San Benedetto Val di Sambro — and has built a network of trails over the years, ranging from the most technical Gravity Enduro to loops accessible to everyone. Along the routes, you can admire natural caves, waterfalls, and breathtaking views. The Bologna Mountain Bike Area is also the first Italian bike area recognized as "powered by Santa Cruz".

A free event for everyone

Ride a BOMBA is completely free and part of the Bologna Estate program, promoted by the Municipality of Bologna and the Metropolitan City of Bologna. Participation requires online registration on the official website and submission of the insurance form on the day of the event. A perfect opportunity to discover the Bolognese mountains on two wheels, in a setting of sport, nature, and community.