I agree with MBC - DEET is the ONLY way to go to avoid Lyme, and for the bugs. Heck - I usually walk out the door slathered in Ivy Block, sunscreen and bug spray.

The key is not to spray the bug spray on your bike clothes - if you just spray your arms and legs, you won't damage your clothing. And your bike won't be an issue unless you dunk it in a vat of the stuff . I have been using DEET for years, and have not ruined any clothing or bike parts as a result.

The other trick - spray some on your helmet/head before you go as well.

Here in MA, deer flies are also an issue. Soon, my MTB season will be over until the fall. Once the bugs get that bad, I stick to road riding.

SheFly