Posts: 8,845
8/11/09 11:01 A

That looks like a good ride. I wouldn't worry about being in the back of the pack. Meet people and just enjoy the ride!

Posts: 1,768
8/11/09 10:05 A

Bev

Nice comments on what to expect. I think that really covers it.

Thanks;-)

Jim

Posts: 1,944
8/11/09 10:00 A

Hey! The bike ride is a charity ride. Its a small scale ride as far as I can tell. There isn't a map of the route because it just goes down a single road. You can just mapquest it. Here is the link with information:
www.bikereg.com/events/register.asp?eventi
d=8608

Also, I will be riding with my husband. He can ride a lot faster. I don't know if he will go faster and check his time or wait for me. Either way is fine. It will be his first one too. I definitely plan on eating my normal breakfast since it doesn't start until 10. Thanks for the tips so far!

~Ang

current weight: 161.5

188 174.75 161.5 148.25

135

SparkPoints: (111,042)
Fitness Minutes: (60,890)
Posts: 9,056
8/11/09 9:55 A

It may be different in various areas of the country, but on the rides I have done so far they give you a list of the basic rules and maps/cue sheets when you register. Some rides have mass starts, some are show and go. Mass starts may give verbal instructions and changes to the route, be sure you can hear them. Show and go is just what it says, register and start when you are ready. Here are some basics:

-be sure to sign out/in
-Remove cleats before entering buildings
-Wear your helmet!
-Follow all traffic laws
-Ride as far right as is safe
-Pass on the left and call out "on your left"
-Find someone riding about the same speed you are and strike up a conversation, it may be their first ride too
-Take advantage of all rest stops, even if it is just for a few minutes
-Have fun, that is why you are there

Some rides have meals following, take advantage of them and meet some of the riders. We have made several friendships that way. Once you do a few rides you will start to see some of the same riders. Take clothes to change into, some rides also offer shower facilities post ride so you can clean up before heading home, I recommend them also.

Having participated as a rider and organizer of rides, I have a few extras I try to include. The workers are often volunteers, please thank them for their time. If you don't get the help you need, ask to speak to one of the organizers. If there is something you need (like Advil at a rest stop) feel free to ask. I supply the rest stops with sheets for comments/requests from riders. If you have suggestions, mention them to the workers at the rest stop or to the sign in table at the end.

Pounds lost: 8.0

0 5.75 11.5 17.25

23

Posts: 219
8/11/09 9:45 A

I completed my first organized ride (35 miles, also on a mountain bike) 4 months ago. At my event, they had bananas/fruit, some bars and even an electrolyte drink at the rest stops. I brought what I was used having while riding, but it was reassuring to know they supplied items. If it's going to be hot, or you will be out for a few hours, you need to keep hydrated and give your body some fuel. The biggest "surprise" I had was that I had more fun than I thought I would! I couldn't believe how many nice people were out for the RIDE, and not to race. Eventually you will find a group of people that are going at your pace and you end up chatting along the route and helping each other out. I was relieved I wasn't at the back of the pack either.
Good luck! Stay safe!

Posts: 8,845
8/11/09 9:40 A

First of all, what kind of organized ride is it? Charity? Club ride? I ask because chances are that it is not a race. If it's a club ride, is it "no drop"? In which case someone will ride with you if you are at the back of the pack. If it is a charity ride, chances are that it will not be a mass start. If you start to the beginning of the registration time, there will be people starting after you, and you will not be the last one on the course.

Two bottles of water is a good idea. You can refill them at the rest stops. You might want to do one bottle of water, one of something else, like gatorade. Make sure you hydrate well the day or two prior to the ride as well. And eat a good meal the night before, in addition to breakfast!

Do you have a link for the ride so we can see what you are going to do?

Posts: 1,944
8/11/09 9:20 A

Hey everyone! I am going to be doing a 33 mile ride (mostly flat) in a few weeks. I have not gotten up to that point yet but I feel confident I will be fine. I can always stop if I am having trouble! I am riding a mountain bike so I expect to be in the back of the pack. I just wanted to know what to expect. I've read up on the "rules" and etiquette but its not the same as being there! The entire ride is on a single road that is pretty busy but with a wide shoulder. Any tips or suggestions? There are two rest stops on the way and I plan on bringing two bottles of water. Thanks for any help!

~Ang

current weight: 161.5

188 174.75 161.5 148.25

135