First off, for some of you, the idea of riding 45 miles in a group may be a bit intimidating. Please don’t be put off by it. Please read the next paragraphs carefully.
Basic Fitness preparation for the 45 Mile Tune Ups:
Ride your bike… Regularly! Each and every week.
Build your time on the bike gradually.
By the beginning of March be averaging 7 to 10 hours of riding every week.
Do at least one three hour ride every week, starting in mid-February.
Take it very easy during the week of March 14 – 20.
Bike & Equipment preparations:
Road bikes please. I am not a “bike snob.” I suppose it’s possible to do this kind of ride on a hybrid, fitness, or mountain bike. However, every time I’ve seen someone try this, sooner or later, they have gotten into trouble. It’s like showing up with a knife for a gunfight. It just never ends well.
You will want to have gearing that allows you to climb. All of these rides are hilly.
Have your bike tuned and inspected before the middle of February.
Plan to carry the following:
Two Water bottles.
Two spare tubes
Your favorite ride food
A bit of money to buy water and munchies at the stops
Any unique spares your particular bike may need
Sunscreen
A wind jacket (possibly a rain shell)
A strong tail light and reflectors are a good idea.
Strong suggestion: Carry the “stuff” you will carry on the bike. The bike is your beast of burden. You have to provide the power to move everything you carry. You should not have to use energy to support it on your back. Start practicing, and testing, loading plans and methods now.
Tomorrow: Riding in Groups
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