Note that we are now using the winter starting time of 9:30 AM.
The Salt Box Village Saturday Morning ride will continue on 1/16/10 at 9:30 AM unless it is raining or the forecast for RDU at 10:00 AM on Weather.com is for less than 40 degrees.
All riders are welcome. All riders are expected to be able to complete at least the 34 mile ride.
The 34 mile ride will be a no-drop group ride that will go as fast as the slowest rider can manage and is designed for riders who are looking to increase their pace and distance.
In addition to the 34 mile ride, there will be a 50 mile ride that
will NOT be a no-drop ride. So if you decide to ride the 50 mile ride, please bring a Cue sheet. The 34 miler route and the 50 mile route are identical for the first 19.7 miles and the last 5.4 miles. Riders on both routes will stay in one group until the 19.7 mile point. You can decide which route you want to take at that time. If you are new to the group or are new to road biking or group rides and you are not sure if you can complete the 50 mile ride and stay with the pack, you might want to do the 34 mile ride first, then try the 50 mile ride later. There's always next week to try the longer ride.
There are cue sheets for a 33 to 38 mile option. Those who elect to do the shorter route can decide whether to do the 33, 34, or 38 mile option. The 34 mile route has fewer hills, but more traffic than the 33 and 38 mile options. I will try to make most of the rides during the winter. If I am not available, I am relying on the regulars who do show up for this ride to maintain the original intent of this ride - i.e., to provide an opportunity for slower riders to participate in a group ride and learn group riding techniques. The goal should be to keep the group together at the fastest pace the slowest rider can maintain until 19.7 miles. At that time, the no drop ride will take the shorter route.
The intent of this ride will focus on group riding technique. If we have at least eight riders, we will ride in a double paceline were road conditions and traffic allow (usually beginning on Tingen Road at mile 7.1). The rest of the time we will ride in a single line. Do not worry if you have never ridden in a paceline before. We will teach you what you need to know to maintain a safe and fun paceline.
Cue Sheets and Garmin TCX files are available at these links:
34 mile route
33 and 38 mile variations
50 mile route
Please bring your own copy of the cue sheet.
If you have not signed a liability waiver for any Slow Spokes ride since January 1, 2010, Please go to this link, print the liability waiver form that is attached at the bottom of the post, sign the form, and turn it in to Al or Perry or Rick at the ride. We only need one waiver form on file from each rider for the calendar year regardless of the Slow Spokes rides in which you participate.
Comments:
- RSVP requested to help plan riding groups. RSVP by replying to the ride announcement thread.
- Beginners are very welcome to join this ride.
- New riders should read Bicycling Hand Signals and Safety Pointers and Ride Preparation - Equipment, Nutrition, Hydration
- First time riders with this group should fill out the linked liability waiver and bring it to the ride. NCBC’s insurance company requires one on file each year for each cyclist.
- Please arrive in time to prepare your bike to leave promptly at 9:30 A.M.
- All riders should carry proper equipment in case they have a flat (spare tube, pump or CO2 cartridge).
- Helmets are required.
It is strongly recommended that you carry your driver’s license, health insurance card (or a photo copy), emergency contact information or Road I.D. in case of an emergency. You may also want to program your cell phone with an emergency contact number under the name “ICE” In Case of Emergency.
DARK HELMET
01-12-2010, 05:53 PM
