A 345 Km bicycle brevet / double century from San Jose to San Luis Obispo
Here is your opportunity to become a part of a group of cyclists that will ride their bikes 345km (a little over 200 miles) in one day. This ride will be relatively easy by double century standards. There is less elevation gain than most double centuries, and we expect to be aided by a tailwind for at least half of the double century.
The course has been designed to follow the Highway 101 corridor, which is relatively flat. It mostly follows quiet, rural roads, however there is a necessary stretch of highway (101) near the end when entering San Luis Obispo over Cuesta Grade. This stretch of highway is legal, as there are no alternative routes for bicycles.
History
I have pedaled this course solo twice. This will be the first time that I have done the ride with others. In the past, the distance has been covered fairly quickly thanks to strong tailwinds from Salinas to Paso Robles, and very short breaks. The first time I did this trip, riding time (moving time) was 11 hours, 6 minutes. Total Time (includes rests) was 12 hours, 30 minutes.
If enough people sign up, we may be able to pitch in for a driver who will meet us at designated checkpoints, carry some gear, and food for us. If only a few people join, we may elect to ride self supported.
Details
Departure Date:
We will leave on our bikes from the San Jose Train Station on July 12, 2008 at 5:30 AM Wheels Rolling!
Schedule:
Currently, there are no official checkpoints. This may change if riders prefer to do a more organized, brevet-style ride. This will require support, which we will have to pay for. The organizers will be on a tandem bicycle, and will be targeting a completion time of 13 hours. We plan to spend the night in San Luis Obispo, and then return the next day via a car that we have left in town. We may be able to provide return transportation for up to 4 participants (and their bikes) on Sunday.
Cost:
Because we are not providing anything other than a Cue Sheet, and a GPS track, there is no fee. We are merely looking for some fit, enthusiastic riding partners for this double century. Depending on the size and preferences of the group, we may decide to hire a driver to follow and support the ride (driving ahead and waiting at pre-designated checkpoints). If we choose this, the driver could also carry light gear and food.
Fitness Level:
All participants should have some double century experience. You should be able to sit on a bike seat for 13+ hours. We will provide you with a cue sheet and a GPS track (see links above). In general, we do not plan to wait for participants who are not on target to complete the course in 13 hours. We will not be racing. We plan to complete the course without using lights. Your bike should be in good repair, and you should have an emergency contact who can pick you and your bicycle up in case you cannot continue. If we hire support this may not be necessary.