Lance and his entourage may have packed up and left, but it's yet not time for Colorado riders to put their cycling shorts into winter storage.

The first-ever Pedal The Plains, a celebration of the state's cycling culture and its other non-mountainous half, kicks off Friday.

"This is going to be a blast," said Gov. John Hickenlooper in a news release. "Riding bikes with friends and family while visiting some incredible Colorado towns — there aren't many better days than that."

The ride will cover from 30 to 100 miles each of its three days. Unlike some of Colorado's more famous rides, the tour, billed as "a ride for the rest of us," won't feature any oxygen-depleting hill climbs.

Instead, riders will tour the broad vistas of the state's east side, visiting host communities like Yuma, Wray and Burlington, which organizers describe as "the heart of western agriculture."

The cycling event, sponsored by The Denver Post and Fort Morgan-based Viaero Wireless, is expected to generate hotel stays, restaurant visits and other financial benefit to the communities on the circuit, some of which could use an economic jolt.

And, once riders are off their bikes, they can enjoy pie-eating contests, live music, beer gardens and other entertainment.

Proceeds from the event will benefit the Denver Post Community Foundation, in support of Future Farmers of America, 4-H and Rural Solutions.

More information about the event is available at www.pedaltheplains.com.