Doing it in the Dirt (again some more)

Dirt Road Practice Rides:

The purpose of these is, first and foremost, to have some fun!  A close second is to go out, with others, and practice the skills necessary to riding on unpaved surfaces.

For the purposes of these rides, we’re choosing some routes that include sections of unpaved roads.  Initailly, we have two routes selected.  Each is less than 13 miles total.  One features 2.3 miles of unpaved road, and the other has 1.7 miles without pavement.

We can go out and do these in one pass, or we could do multiple passes on the dirt sections.  The decision will depend on the fun factor and enthusiasm of those present.  So it’s not going to be a grueling test of a rider’s might and sinew.

FAQs

Q: “Can I bring my mountain bike?” 

A:  Of course you can, if it will make you feel better.  But these roads most certainly can be ridden on a road bike, and the greatest amount of each loop is paved.  I’d recommend a road bike.  (A tourist would be a great choice.)

Q:  “Will these be “no drop” rides?”

A:  It would be kind of silly to engage in “keep up or die” behavior when the goal is to get everyone to the dirt.  And I have no intention of leaving anyone stranded.  So I guess the answer is, “Yes.”

Q:  “Will there be a cuesheet?”

A:  Come now.  We’re doing this in Fayette County, not outer Mongolia.  No point of either of the intended loops is more than five miles from the shop.  No cuesheets, but you won’t get lost.

Q:  “What if it rains?”

A:  Then water will fall out of the sky, and we will have to spend a bit more time cleaning our bikes after.  Oddly, dirt roads are easier to ride when wet.  Rides will go rain or shine.

Q:  “I’ve never done this before.  What if I can’t?”

A:  The whole purpose is to teach folks how to.  We’ll take it easy, and demonstrate and coach.  If you really and truly can’t handle it, you won’t be far from pavement, and an easy ride back home.

The Details:

Where:  Start and Finish at Bicycles Unlimited, Peachtree City, GA.

Dates:  (Let’s try two to start with.)  Sept. 11, and Sept. 25

Times:  Start at 2:00 PM (sharp)

Pace/Distance:  Approx 15 miles (more by consensus), moderate to easy (remember this is a skills exercise!)

Conditions/Requirements:  Rain or shine.  Helmets are a must!