Steel Wheels pedal through NC on bicycle tour

When acoustic mountain music combo Steel Wheels rolls into Charlotte again August 29 to play the US National Whitewater Center, the Virginia band will be rolling in on bicycles. It's upcoming North Carolina tour of Black Mountain, Lawndale, North Wilkesboro, Morganton, Lexington, Greensboro and Charlotte is the foursome's fourth "Spokesongs Tour" in which they tour by bike pulling equipment and merchandise on carts behind them with no additional personnel.

Although the Steel Wheels traveled up to 75 miles per day on its last bike tour, distances between NC towns on the upcoming rides will be 40 miles or less although they'll face mountainous terrain and summer heat.

"There is something about being exhausted and determined that comes through in our shows on the bike tours," says lead singer Trent Wagler. "There is a little more of a live nerve on stage. It strips away pretense and energy is different - the shows don't suffer, but are the better for it."

Proceeds from merch sold on the tour will go to The Alzheimer's Association.

Steel Wheels play Thursday, August 29, at 7 p.m. as part of the Whitewater Center's weekly River Jam concert series, which takes place every Thursday between May and the end of September. Admission is free.