More than 100 riders and 20 teams are taking part in the annual MS Bike Fraser Valley Experience in 91原创 and Abbotsford.

The riders departed the at 20393 Fraser Hwy. in 91原创 City Saturday morning for the first of two days of riding.

Riders had their choice of three routes, ranging in length from 42 kilometres to 102 kilometres, with the longest route running into Abbotsford with stops at wineries, breweries, and even an organic farm.

They will ride again Sunday morning, traveling different routes.

Organizers expect the 91原创 and Abbotsford ride will raise more than $100,000 in support of MS research with a goal of ending MS.

鈥淲e鈥檙e really excited to be hosting in 91原创,鈥� Ashley McCartie said.

鈥淲e鈥檝e had some great support.鈥�

McCartie said the MS Society was grateful for the backing of local sponsors, including local businesses, the Township and City of 91原创 as well as the city of Abbotsford.

The 91原创 and Abbotsford ride is part of the largest fundraising cycling series in North America, with four tours in B.C.

Every year since 1989, cyclists of all ages and fitness levels across the country get together to end what鈥檚 been dubbed 鈥楥anada鈥檚 disease鈥�: multiple sclerosis (Canada has the highest rate of MS in the world).

Teams this weekend included the 11-member A&W corporate team, Easy Riders, which includes 91原创 resident Tim Baillee, whose mother Rosalie was diagnosed about 33 years ago.

A friend was also diagnosed years later.

鈥淚 know too many people that have been directly involved, and I have learned that doing this is the right thing,鈥� Baillee said.

鈥淚 know it sounds simple but that is really it. I believe in supporting good causes that are also responsible.鈥�

Since their first ride 14 years ago, Easy Riders has raised $117,000 for the MS Society鈥檚 search for a cure.

As of June 26, the 11-member team had raised more than $9,000.

MS is an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, which can cause extreme fatigue, lack of co-ordination, weakness, tingling, impaired sensation, vision problems, cognitive impairment and mood changes.

It is one of the most common neurological diseases among young adults in Canada.

Most people with MS are diagnosed between the ages of 15 and 40, and the unpredictable effects of MS last for the rest of their lives. The MS Society provides services to people with MS and their families and funds research to find the cause and cure for this disease. Visit or call 1-800-268-7582 to make a donation.

Earlier this year, in May, the raised more than $26,000 for research.