The 9th Annual Neighborhood Bike Ride is set for Saturday, September 19, beginning at 10 a.m. in Market Square. 

The theme of this year's event is "Southern Exposure" and riders will journey across the Tennessee River to tour great South Knoxville neighborhoods including the Vestal, Lindbergh Forest and Island Home neighborhoods, parks like Sam Duff Park and the South Waterfront area.

The ride begins and ends in Market Square. Free bike safety checks start at 9 a.m. and riders should meet on Market Street between Clinch Avenue and Church Avenue, behind the East Tennessee History Center.

The route of the beginner, family-friendly ride is less than 11 miles long and all ages and skills levels are welcome. Helmets are required and there is no registration required for this free ride.

The ride is sponsored by the City of Knoxville and the Knoxville Regional Bicycle Program and riders are invited to enjoy free pizza after the trip

Past rides have traveled through Knoxville neighborhoods scattered across the city giving participants a view of great places they may not have been familiar with. It's a great way to spend a Saturday morning in September.

For more information about the 9th Annual Neighborhood Bike Ride please go to www.knoxtrans.org or call 215-3815.