In town or out on the trails and at any riding level, Missoulians love their bicycles.

So, the Historical Museum at Fort Missoula figured it was high time they "spoke" up and invited you to a wonderful new exhibit opening this Friday, September 15. Welcome to "Missoula MT - The Bicycle Town."

The Missoula MT - The Bicycle Town exhibit explores the history of cycling in Missoula, from its inspiring long-distance races to local bike shops. Viewers will be able to "explore and learn why Missoula is known as one of the most bike-friendly cities in America today."

Cycling has been a long-honored tradition throughout the world for over two centuries, from its humble beginnings as the “hobby-horse” in 1817 to what it has become in the world today. And it didn’t take long for the craze to reach Missoula. Our first bike shop opened its doors back in the 1890s.

Cycling popularity has had its ups and downs worldwide, but Missoula has maintained a  strong tie to the biking scene that has lasted over 130 years. And that can be evidenced by the excellent local bike shops you will find, including the two Bicycle Hangar locations, Missoula Bike Source, Missoula Bicycle Works, Scheels and many more.

The Fort Missoula Museum exhibit rides through the history of biking, early bike shops that introduced the pastime Missoula, and the biking traditions of group rides that inspired many more through western Montana and beyond.

The exhibit can be viewed during regular museum hours, Tuesdays through Sundays, Noon - 5:00 pm. No official end date to the exhibit has been announced.

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