– Photos by Bobbie Toner

A section of Chester Street was blocked off Monday night as Redbones hosted the 16th Annual Bike Party to benefit Massachusetts Bicycle Coalition (MassBike) and New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA). Originally held during Bike Week in May, the party moved to June three years ago to benefit from warmer weather, additional daylight, and more cyclists on the road for the season.

The June date has proved to be a popular choice, attracting more people and proceeds every year. Over $11,000 was divided between MassBike and NEMBA. It was a night of great food, live entertainment, and raffles. The Grand Prize this year was a custom made Basket Bike valued at $3,500, donated by returning lead sponsor Alternative Needs Transportation (ANT). Many additional sponsors donated awesome prizes for the drawing which included bikes, gear, and lots of swag.

Redbones’ first Bike Party was conceived in tandem with Redbones free Bicycle Valet parking introduced in 1996. Robert Gregory, co-owner of Redbones and a mountain biker, initiated the valet parking for the cyclists who ride to the restaurant, as well as other destinations in Davis Square. Many riders are hesitant to leave their bikes, including some very pricey models, unattended on the street.

Success of the parking lead to the Redbones Rib Rider, a custom designed cargo bike from ANT, used for free dinner delivery in neighborhoods surrounding the restaurant. Fifteen years later, the party is always eagerly anticipated by attendees and sponsors alike.