2008 Music City Double Ride Report
April 19, 2008
By Jeff Bauer
Yesterday I rode our Music City Double Century. I rode it geared for a couple reasons(*): 1) I wanted to give my fixed legs a break; 2) I thought if I rode it geared I wouldn't have an excuse not to keep up with some of the faster riders. A number of people were originally signed up to break the 11h08 record, but the wind, rain and cool temps may have dissuaded them. This included John Schlitter, the uber bent racer who finished first at Heart of the South earlier this month.
I was fortunate to ride with Bryce Walsh and Paul Carpenter from Chicago, along with local Tennessean George Hiscox who refuses to ride his age (60+). Paul is somewhat famous in Chicago for commuting daily -- 30 miles each way, in all weather -- he has been out on the road in 20 below zero! Paul's been interviewed in local media, and is a regular part of the motor commuters routine. Miles count: my first impression of Paul as a stocky rider was quickly dispelled when I saw him motoring along with no apparent effort well into the second 100 miles. He's a British ex-pat, with a typical insouciance in the weather or road conditions. Paul will ride in Ride Across the West this year, the first 1000 miles of RAAM.
Bryce Walsh was a RAAM soloist in 2006, finishing a respectable 5th in the race. He's also the crew chief this year for Scott McIntosh, so I'll see both he and Paul again in June. Bryce has reserved the Chicago velodrome in August in an attempt to break the 24-hour UMCA record, currently: 532 miles. He'll have to average almost 23 mph!
With the four of us, our 202 mile ride was fairly smooth until the rain started. Then we lost the momentum to draft at a fast pace, though we still enjoyed each other's company. Lots of dogs, and Bryce even got bit once (two puncture wounds). We decided not to waste time by calling animal control, though it irritates me that some owner is allowing his dog to endanger cyclists.
We made one market stop, about 110 miles into the ride, to replenish fluids and get something quick to eat. I mostly relied on Perpetuem and Hammer Gel, with a quick pint of chocolate milk at the store. About 9 hours into the ride, one of our group started to fade. Rather than leave him behind, we ratcheted down our pace, but were still the first riders to finish. Our total time was 12h10 (ridetime: 11h42). I was happy with my effort, which shaved off about an hour from my 2006 ride. The ever-effervescent Dave Harris was waiting for us at the finish with our premium recovery drinks.
11609' climbing, 17.2 mph avg, power 174 watts avg.
Next weekend I'll ride the GA 400K fixed, and then start to moderate on distance rides. I've offered to SAG our TN 600K, since it's so close to RAAM. I obviously won't be riding the GA 600K for the same reason.
Jeff Bauer
Days to RAAM: 49
(*) Actually another reason I rode it geared is that I wanted some PowerTap numbers to look at on an extended ride.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Turkey Trot 200K Ride Report - Bob Hess
Turkey Trot 200K Ride Report
November 24, 2007
By Bob Hess
There must be something therapeutic about sharing experiences after your first major long distance accomplishment. Here's mine:
After a few long tandem rally rides and MS 150s with my wife, I got the bug to try long distance riding solo. I finished my first supported century this summer with the club and set my sights on the next distance goal. I like the idea of riding unsupported and so decided to sign up for the last 200k brevet event in my area, the Turkey Trot 200k brevet out of Brentwood TN. I figured it would be a good training experience and give me an idea of if I would be able to handle the full spring brevet series next year.
The ride started at 7am on Nov 24. Temps were 28F at the start. My ride partner and I left about 10 minutes behind the main group of about 20 riders. My saddle bag was packed with food, and I had plenty of warm wool stuff on.
The first 40 miles were pretty mild, some good flat to rolling terrain, good hills to get the blood flowing and the body warm. Munched on a cliff bar, another sports bar I can't remember the name of, and drank my water and cytomax. The countryside is beautiful in this part of Tennessee, rolling hills, lots of pasture land and horses everywhere. We hit the first control right in the middle of the time limit, so I figured our pace was good and comfortable for the rest of the ride.
After the first control at 40 miles the terrain got more challenging, leaving the Nashville basin with some good sustained climbs. We had munched on bananas, ate some fig bars, drank more fluids and were feeling fairly strong. The climbing in this section really took it's toll on my partner, who has been recovering from knee injuries all summer. I normally ride around the Knoxville area in East Tennessee, so I felt well prepared for the climbs, but this section also provided a serious mental and emotional challenge.
At about 55 miles while climbing a long hill I heard a dog barking off in the woods. This area is forested, so the houses sit back off the road, surrounded by trees. I could also hear a lady calling after the dog, but it seemed like we would pass without incident. I was ahead of my partner by about 200 yards when I heard him shooing the dog off. I looked back to see that he was OK and the dog had abated it's chase. I put my head down and refocused on the hill only to hear a few seconds later the sickening sound of tires screeching and a loud thud.
I turned around to see the form of a dog in the road, with cars pulled off to the side. It appears as though the dog had turned around to go home and was hit by a car coming up the hill. It had to be going fast, the dog wasn't moving. My wife and I are SERIOUS dog lovers, we have three, and seeing this all... my heart was breaking and my stomach was in agony. In a strange and odd coincidence, my wife was in Nashville this same day, picking up our new puppy, a Rhodesian Ridgeback she's been waiting on for several years.
None of the motorist that stopped seemed to want to do anything, so I turned back down the hill, appraised the dog from a distance to make sure he wouldn't be violent (as wounded dogs often are). I dropped my bike and quickly knelt down next to the dog. He was beautiful, some kind of husky/shepherd mix. It was clear he had been hit hard, I stroked his head, talked softly to him. Motorists piled up, the fella that hit him only added "I think he's dead" (add your best red-neck vernacular to it). Moments later the owner came out of her driveway and with one look was hysterical and running up the road, her daughter (maybe in her 20s?) close behind. She was crying and very upset, came and hugged her dog next to me. I asked if she had a vet, or somewhere to take him, but he wasn't long for this world. Within a minute or so he was gone, off to chase bikes in better place.
I hugged the lady, cried a little with her, and carried her dog for her into her car so she could take care of him. I couldn't talk to anyone, I told my ride partner I was OK, and the motorists departed (the fella who hit the dog never really said or did anything). This was the first time anything like this has ever happened to me on the road. It took a lot out of me, mentally and emotionally. I teared up off and on throughout the remainder of the ride. My ride partner helped by keeping me focused. The hills continued and took their toll.
At 80 miles we found ourselves at the second control, a quirky little market in the middle of the country. My partner decided to bail on the ride, his knees were gone and he didn't want to risk injury. We ate, chatted, made sure he could be evacuated by his lady and I set off.
Cold light rain begin and continued for the rest of the ride. My wool stuff kept me warm, even though it was soaked. The remaining miles proved to be much more manageable terrain, having come down off the basin rim, but there were definitely a few small hills left. The ride was peaceful, I put on my headphones and listened to the Tenn vs Kentucky football game... all 4 (or was it 5) overtimes... that will keep you focused (Go Vols!).
The final control before going on the the finish found me back in a more populated area, but with darkness coming on. It was cold, dark, and I was beat. I called my wife, gave her my best ETA for being at the finish, let her know it had been a rough day, without going into details, and set off into the night with my lights. With only 28 miles left, this was the first time I've ever ridden in the full darkness of the country roads. It was magical. I usually like the sounds of the road, but my head would keep wandering to the day's events, so I turned on the Mp3 player and got lost in my music. The Talking Heads took me to the Finish in Brentwood, my wife in a warm truck with our new puppy, and a patient RBA to take my brevet card. Total finishing time 12:10.
This ride was the toughest thing I've ever done, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I was proud of myself for finishing, my head wanted me to quit many times. The ups and downs were tremendous. I know it would have been easier without the drama during the ride, but even considering that, it was still tough. I know that I carried too much food, and I know that I can turn in a better time down the road. These are some improvements I can make, but I am hooked and I will be a participant in the spring series for as long as my body and mind will take me.
Thanks for reading, and thanks for the therapy.
November 24, 2007
By Bob Hess
There must be something therapeutic about sharing experiences after your first major long distance accomplishment. Here's mine:
After a few long tandem rally rides and MS 150s with my wife, I got the bug to try long distance riding solo. I finished my first supported century this summer with the club and set my sights on the next distance goal. I like the idea of riding unsupported and so decided to sign up for the last 200k brevet event in my area, the Turkey Trot 200k brevet out of Brentwood TN. I figured it would be a good training experience and give me an idea of if I would be able to handle the full spring brevet series next year.
The ride started at 7am on Nov 24. Temps were 28F at the start. My ride partner and I left about 10 minutes behind the main group of about 20 riders. My saddle bag was packed with food, and I had plenty of warm wool stuff on.
The first 40 miles were pretty mild, some good flat to rolling terrain, good hills to get the blood flowing and the body warm. Munched on a cliff bar, another sports bar I can't remember the name of, and drank my water and cytomax. The countryside is beautiful in this part of Tennessee, rolling hills, lots of pasture land and horses everywhere. We hit the first control right in the middle of the time limit, so I figured our pace was good and comfortable for the rest of the ride.
After the first control at 40 miles the terrain got more challenging, leaving the Nashville basin with some good sustained climbs. We had munched on bananas, ate some fig bars, drank more fluids and were feeling fairly strong. The climbing in this section really took it's toll on my partner, who has been recovering from knee injuries all summer. I normally ride around the Knoxville area in East Tennessee, so I felt well prepared for the climbs, but this section also provided a serious mental and emotional challenge.
At about 55 miles while climbing a long hill I heard a dog barking off in the woods. This area is forested, so the houses sit back off the road, surrounded by trees. I could also hear a lady calling after the dog, but it seemed like we would pass without incident. I was ahead of my partner by about 200 yards when I heard him shooing the dog off. I looked back to see that he was OK and the dog had abated it's chase. I put my head down and refocused on the hill only to hear a few seconds later the sickening sound of tires screeching and a loud thud.
I turned around to see the form of a dog in the road, with cars pulled off to the side. It appears as though the dog had turned around to go home and was hit by a car coming up the hill. It had to be going fast, the dog wasn't moving. My wife and I are SERIOUS dog lovers, we have three, and seeing this all... my heart was breaking and my stomach was in agony. In a strange and odd coincidence, my wife was in Nashville this same day, picking up our new puppy, a Rhodesian Ridgeback she's been waiting on for several years.
None of the motorist that stopped seemed to want to do anything, so I turned back down the hill, appraised the dog from a distance to make sure he wouldn't be violent (as wounded dogs often are). I dropped my bike and quickly knelt down next to the dog. He was beautiful, some kind of husky/shepherd mix. It was clear he had been hit hard, I stroked his head, talked softly to him. Motorists piled up, the fella that hit him only added "I think he's dead" (add your best red-neck vernacular to it). Moments later the owner came out of her driveway and with one look was hysterical and running up the road, her daughter (maybe in her 20s?) close behind. She was crying and very upset, came and hugged her dog next to me. I asked if she had a vet, or somewhere to take him, but he wasn't long for this world. Within a minute or so he was gone, off to chase bikes in better place.
I hugged the lady, cried a little with her, and carried her dog for her into her car so she could take care of him. I couldn't talk to anyone, I told my ride partner I was OK, and the motorists departed (the fella who hit the dog never really said or did anything). This was the first time anything like this has ever happened to me on the road. It took a lot out of me, mentally and emotionally. I teared up off and on throughout the remainder of the ride. My ride partner helped by keeping me focused. The hills continued and took their toll.
At 80 miles we found ourselves at the second control, a quirky little market in the middle of the country. My partner decided to bail on the ride, his knees were gone and he didn't want to risk injury. We ate, chatted, made sure he could be evacuated by his lady and I set off.
Cold light rain begin and continued for the rest of the ride. My wool stuff kept me warm, even though it was soaked. The remaining miles proved to be much more manageable terrain, having come down off the basin rim, but there were definitely a few small hills left. The ride was peaceful, I put on my headphones and listened to the Tenn vs Kentucky football game... all 4 (or was it 5) overtimes... that will keep you focused (Go Vols!).
The final control before going on the the finish found me back in a more populated area, but with darkness coming on. It was cold, dark, and I was beat. I called my wife, gave her my best ETA for being at the finish, let her know it had been a rough day, without going into details, and set off into the night with my lights. With only 28 miles left, this was the first time I've ever ridden in the full darkness of the country roads. It was magical. I usually like the sounds of the road, but my head would keep wandering to the day's events, so I turned on the Mp3 player and got lost in my music. The Talking Heads took me to the Finish in Brentwood, my wife in a warm truck with our new puppy, and a patient RBA to take my brevet card. Total finishing time 12:10.
This ride was the toughest thing I've ever done, physically, mentally, and emotionally. I was proud of myself for finishing, my head wanted me to quit many times. The ups and downs were tremendous. I know it would have been easier without the drama during the ride, but even considering that, it was still tough. I know that I carried too much food, and I know that I can turn in a better time down the road. These are some improvements I can make, but I am hooked and I will be a participant in the spring series for as long as my body and mind will take me.
Thanks for reading, and thanks for the therapy.
Monday, September 17, 2007
Ride Accross Tennessee (RAT) 250K Ride Report - Jeff Bauer
Ride Across Tennessee (RAT) 250K Ride Report
September 15, 2007
By Jeff Bauer
The 2007 Ride Across Tennessee (RAT) was probably the best since I've been riding it. Toward this time of the year, especially after Paris-Brest-Paris, all of the training pressure is off so we can simply enjoy the ride for its own sake. About a dozen riders showed up, including one recumbent. In contrast to earlier RATs, last Saturday's ride started out at a balmy 55F. Cool enough for vests and arm warmers, but much nicer than the near-freezing temps we've experienced when the ride was scheduled in October.
RAT is unique in that it's strictly a one-way route from north to south. This makes the logistics more complicated -- dropping off riders and bikes at the Kentucky border in Clarksville, then picking them up on the Alabama state line. However this inconvenience is ameliorated by the typical northern tailwind that usually accompanies us. This year the wind was exceptionally strong and constant throughout the ride.
No less than five PBP anciens showed up at RAT, including Chris Gaughan from Ohio, so we had a good mix of long distance riders. Robert Hendry joined us for the first 50 miles then turned back at the Burns control to fight a headwind back to Clarksville. Nobody wanted to join him?
At Hohenwald (mile 106), we all regrouped at the Subway for lunch. For the next 7 miles we fought a harsh crosswind, then turned south onto the Natchez Trace Parkway. The last 44 miles was great fun, with Chris and I trading off to see how fast we could push up our average, frequently taking pulls in the 27-28 mph range. Having a goal of finishing the ride before 5 pm, we crossed the Alabama state line with Bill Glass and George Hiscox at 4:49.
Every rider except the recumbent (who got off course) finished RAT.
Note that you do not have to be an ultra cyclist to ride the RAT. Anyone who's finished a 100 mile century can probably complete this ride. It's a great way to closeout your riding season and includes bragging rights.
September 15, 2007
By Jeff Bauer
The 2007 Ride Across Tennessee (RAT) was probably the best since I've been riding it. Toward this time of the year, especially after Paris-Brest-Paris, all of the training pressure is off so we can simply enjoy the ride for its own sake. About a dozen riders showed up, including one recumbent. In contrast to earlier RATs, last Saturday's ride started out at a balmy 55F. Cool enough for vests and arm warmers, but much nicer than the near-freezing temps we've experienced when the ride was scheduled in October.
RAT is unique in that it's strictly a one-way route from north to south. This makes the logistics more complicated -- dropping off riders and bikes at the Kentucky border in Clarksville, then picking them up on the Alabama state line. However this inconvenience is ameliorated by the typical northern tailwind that usually accompanies us. This year the wind was exceptionally strong and constant throughout the ride.
No less than five PBP anciens showed up at RAT, including Chris Gaughan from Ohio, so we had a good mix of long distance riders. Robert Hendry joined us for the first 50 miles then turned back at the Burns control to fight a headwind back to Clarksville. Nobody wanted to join him?
At Hohenwald (mile 106), we all regrouped at the Subway for lunch. For the next 7 miles we fought a harsh crosswind, then turned south onto the Natchez Trace Parkway. The last 44 miles was great fun, with Chris and I trading off to see how fast we could push up our average, frequently taking pulls in the 27-28 mph range. Having a goal of finishing the ride before 5 pm, we crossed the Alabama state line with Bill Glass and George Hiscox at 4:49.
Every rider except the recumbent (who got off course) finished RAT.
Note that you do not have to be an ultra cyclist to ride the RAT. Anyone who's finished a 100 mile century can probably complete this ride. It's a great way to closeout your riding season and includes bragging rights.
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
What Makes Paris-Brest-Paris Different
What Makes Paris-Brest-Paris Different
By Jeff Bauer
July 15, 2007
Some thoughts on PBP before the big event. I'm no PBP expert, having only ridden the course once, but for first timers it might be worth presenting some of the differences you'll experience compared to a "normal" 1200K. Here are some notes I made in reference to a discussion we had at an orientation earlier this year.
What makes Paris-Brest-Paris different from any other kind of randonnee?
Roads:
-Slightly rougher surface
-Some "Pave"
-Hardly any shake & bake sections
-Rolling, nothing > 9% grade (but: never flat)
Controls:
-French riders do not queue in line
-Main areas:
--Bike racks
--Card swipe/stamp (Go HERE first!)
--Cafeteria / café
(The cafe, if available, is mostly for food "to go" and doesn't offer the selection of hot, buffet-style food at the cafeteria.)
-Optional areas:
--Water spigot (ask for "Aqua")
--Sleep (A cot may not be available at peak hours)
--Drop Bag area (Loudeac)
--Shower trailer
(Showers are only available at some controls such as Loudeac. Don't expect hot water, and bring your own towel.)
Markets: -
-No 24-hour "Kwik-Marts"
-Bars are often open past midnight and serve food
-Roadside offerings: "Aqua" & "Cafe"
Everything:
-A La Carte
-No freebies, always carry euros
Restroom breaks:
-Public restrooms are almost non-existent and you may have to wait a while at the controls.
-Bring toilet paper!
Sleep breaks:
-At the controls:
--You may have to wait.
--Cots were €2 (Euros) in 2003
--Bring earplugs (100+ snorers = high decibels)
-Out in the open:
--Daytime - find some shade
--Nighttime - careful not to use someone's restroom
Motorists:
-Patient, except for trucks (lorries)
-You may ride side-by-side without bothering anyone
-Don't yell "Car back!”
(It's stupid, unnecessary, and assumes everyone around you speaks English. Not.)
Road Markings:
-Excellent: bright with reflective tape
-Cue sheet: Almost useless, but program your bike computer to use kilometers anyway.
-Town-to-town: Although the cue sheet isn't very useful, it *is* helpful to know which town you're about to enter/leave. If you get lost, it's easier to find your way back.
-Vandalism: On the last few kilometers in 2003, some punks vandalized/removed the route makers. Fortunately the organizers painted the markings so we could find our way back to the finish.
-Outbound vs. inbound: Each direction will have a different color marker. Don't follow the wrong color! This has happened before and caused riders to DNF.
Self-sufficient:
-It may rain; temps can drop into the 40's at night.
-No roving SAG support such as GRR, BMB, etc.
-There are excellent bike mechanics at the controls; however you may have to wait in line for them to attend to your needs.
By Jeff Bauer
July 15, 2007
Some thoughts on PBP before the big event. I'm no PBP expert, having only ridden the course once, but for first timers it might be worth presenting some of the differences you'll experience compared to a "normal" 1200K. Here are some notes I made in reference to a discussion we had at an orientation earlier this year.
What makes Paris-Brest-Paris different from any other kind of randonnee?
Roads:
-Slightly rougher surface
-Some "Pave"
-Hardly any shake & bake sections
-Rolling, nothing > 9% grade (but: never flat)
Controls:
-French riders do not queue in line
-Main areas:
--Bike racks
--Card swipe/stamp (Go HERE first!)
--Cafeteria / café
(The cafe, if available, is mostly for food "to go" and doesn't offer the selection of hot, buffet-style food at the cafeteria.)
-Optional areas:
--Water spigot (ask for "Aqua")
--Sleep (A cot may not be available at peak hours)
--Drop Bag area (Loudeac)
--Shower trailer
(Showers are only available at some controls such as Loudeac. Don't expect hot water, and bring your own towel.)
Markets: -
-No 24-hour "Kwik-Marts"
-Bars are often open past midnight and serve food
-Roadside offerings: "Aqua" & "Cafe"
Everything:
-A La Carte
-No freebies, always carry euros
Restroom breaks:
-Public restrooms are almost non-existent and you may have to wait a while at the controls.
-Bring toilet paper!
Sleep breaks:
-At the controls:
--You may have to wait.
--Cots were €2 (Euros) in 2003
--Bring earplugs (100+ snorers = high decibels)
-Out in the open:
--Daytime - find some shade
--Nighttime - careful not to use someone's restroom
Motorists:
-Patient, except for trucks (lorries)
-You may ride side-by-side without bothering anyone
-Don't yell "Car back!”
(It's stupid, unnecessary, and assumes everyone around you speaks English. Not.)
Road Markings:
-Excellent: bright with reflective tape
-Cue sheet: Almost useless, but program your bike computer to use kilometers anyway.
-Town-to-town: Although the cue sheet isn't very useful, it *is* helpful to know which town you're about to enter/leave. If you get lost, it's easier to find your way back.
-Vandalism: On the last few kilometers in 2003, some punks vandalized/removed the route makers. Fortunately the organizers painted the markings so we could find our way back to the finish.
-Outbound vs. inbound: Each direction will have a different color marker. Don't follow the wrong color! This has happened before and caused riders to DNF.
Self-sufficient:
-It may rain; temps can drop into the 40's at night.
-No roving SAG support such as GRR, BMB, etc.
-There are excellent bike mechanics at the controls; however you may have to wait in line for them to attend to your needs.
PBP Checklist
PBP Checklist
By Jeff Bauer
July 15, 2007
At almost every 1200K, someone shows up missing some critical gear. Fortunately (with the exception of your Passport and bike shoes) most of it can be purchased in France. But it's less expensive and time-consuming to bring your own gear.
Everyone's gear list will vary. Here's mine. I find it useful to print out this list and manually check off each piece of gear as it's packed.
PBP Checklist
Travel
___ Passport, Driver's License, Medical Insurance (+ photocopies)
___ Bike Inspection Sheet (Accuse D'inscription)
___ Cash (100 euros), ATM, credit cards
___ Wristwatch (even if you don't normally wear one)
___ Brevet card, frame number, route sheet
___ Camera
Bike / Bike repair
___ Bike Computer (set to kilometers, you imperialist!)
___ CO2 cartridges**
___ Tire Patches, tire boot
___ Toolset: hex wrenches, tire levers, chain tool + spare links
___ Leatherman OR Swiss Army Knife
___ Chain Lube, grease
___ Spare Tubes (2-3 on bike, 2 per drop bag)
___ Patch kit
___ FibreFix spoke replacement
___ Spare Tire
___ Saddle Bag
___ Handlebar bag
___ Headlights (fresh batteries)
___ Taillights (fresh batteries)
___ Spare bulbs (x3)
___ Zip ties, duct tape, electrical tape
___ Frame pump
Night Gear:
___ Petzl headlamp (fresh batteries)
___ Reflective gear: (vest/belt, leg reflectors)
___ Spare baggies, plastic wrap, plastic sacks
___ Spare batteries
___ Earplugs, eye cover
Fuel / Nutrition / Comfort:
___ Water bottles
___ CamelBak
___ Drink Mix (pre-measured into zip lock bags)
___ Gels
___ Energy Bars
___ Endurolytes
___ Caffeine tablets
___ Ibuprofen
___ Immodium
___ Tums
___ Butt balm (Lantiseptic, Bag Balm, etc.)
___ Sunscreen, lip balm
___ Toilet paper
___ Emergency space blanket
___ Wet wipes
Clothing / Wearables:
___ Cycling Shoes
___ Helmet
___ Glasses (dark + clear)
___ Shorts (+ spares)
___ Knee Warmers OR leg warmers OR tights
___ Socks
___ Gloves
___ Glove Liners or long-fingered gloves
___ Jersey(s)
___ Underlayer
___ Arm Warmers
___ Cycling Cap OR Beanie OR Lightweight Balaclava
___ Wind Vest
___ Rain Jacket
Notes:
1. Some people will ride "commando" style with the 80 hour group. They'll take a spare tube, patch kit, arm warmers, and a vest. This list isn't for those riders.
2. Your CO2 cartridges may get confiscated by TSA, so bring along a frame pump. All the CO2 cartridges will be sold out by the time your get to the ride, so don't plan on being able to purchase any when you arrive.
By Jeff Bauer
July 15, 2007
At almost every 1200K, someone shows up missing some critical gear. Fortunately (with the exception of your Passport and bike shoes) most of it can be purchased in France. But it's less expensive and time-consuming to bring your own gear.
Everyone's gear list will vary. Here's mine. I find it useful to print out this list and manually check off each piece of gear as it's packed.
PBP Checklist
Travel
___ Passport, Driver's License, Medical Insurance (+ photocopies)
___ Bike Inspection Sheet (Accuse D'inscription)
___ Cash (100 euros), ATM, credit cards
___ Wristwatch (even if you don't normally wear one)
___ Brevet card, frame number, route sheet
___ Camera
Bike / Bike repair
___ Bike Computer (set to kilometers, you imperialist!)
___ CO2 cartridges**
___ Tire Patches, tire boot
___ Toolset: hex wrenches, tire levers, chain tool + spare links
___ Leatherman OR Swiss Army Knife
___ Chain Lube, grease
___ Spare Tubes (2-3 on bike, 2 per drop bag)
___ Patch kit
___ FibreFix spoke replacement
___ Spare Tire
___ Saddle Bag
___ Handlebar bag
___ Headlights (fresh batteries)
___ Taillights (fresh batteries)
___ Spare bulbs (x3)
___ Zip ties, duct tape, electrical tape
___ Frame pump
Night Gear:
___ Petzl headlamp (fresh batteries)
___ Reflective gear: (vest/belt, leg reflectors)
___ Spare baggies, plastic wrap, plastic sacks
___ Spare batteries
___ Earplugs, eye cover
Fuel / Nutrition / Comfort:
___ Water bottles
___ CamelBak
___ Drink Mix (pre-measured into zip lock bags)
___ Gels
___ Energy Bars
___ Endurolytes
___ Caffeine tablets
___ Ibuprofen
___ Immodium
___ Tums
___ Butt balm (Lantiseptic, Bag Balm, etc.)
___ Sunscreen, lip balm
___ Toilet paper
___ Emergency space blanket
___ Wet wipes
Clothing / Wearables:
___ Cycling Shoes
___ Helmet
___ Glasses (dark + clear)
___ Shorts (+ spares)
___ Knee Warmers OR leg warmers OR tights
___ Socks
___ Gloves
___ Glove Liners or long-fingered gloves
___ Jersey(s)
___ Underlayer
___ Arm Warmers
___ Cycling Cap OR Beanie OR Lightweight Balaclava
___ Wind Vest
___ Rain Jacket
Notes:
1. Some people will ride "commando" style with the 80 hour group. They'll take a spare tube, patch kit, arm warmers, and a vest. This list isn't for those riders.
2. Your CO2 cartridges may get confiscated by TSA, so bring along a frame pump. All the CO2 cartridges will be sold out by the time your get to the ride, so don't plan on being able to purchase any when you arrive.
PBP Bike Inspection
PBP Bike Inspection
By Jeff Bauer
July 15, 2007
Bike inspection at PBP can be both serious and absurd.
My recommendation is to request the earliest inspection time possible. As the day drags on, the lines can get backed up and you spend more time waiting for inspection. Also, if you have any problems during your bike inspection you'll have time to remedy the situation if you start early.
There will be two lines. One for the French riders and one (literally) for "Strangers". In 2003 I was directed to the French line to speed up the process. My lack of the French vocabulary and the inspector's lack of English made for a somewhat comical situation.
Here are some recommendations to pass through your inspection quickly.
-Bring your brevet card, laminated bike number attached to the bike, and bike inspection form (titled: Accuse D'Inscription).
-Mounted taillight(s): demonstrate steady, non-blinking operation.
-Mounted headlights: demonstrate working condition. I had to explain how the Schmidt dynohub worked to my inspector in 2003.
-Brakes: I don't suppose fixed-gear riders will have to argue about the absence of a rear brake.
-Misc: Depending on the zealotry of the inspector and the time of day, they may also check out your stem, headset, bolt adjustments, etc.
-Spare batteries: Even if you use a Schmidt dynohub, it will save you time to carry a sack of AA batteries. In 2003, I borrowed some from another Tennessee Randonneur.
-Spare bulbs: 3 bulbs - no less(***) I don't know why the magic number is three. You can argue that two LED lights are more effective than one non-LED system with three bulbs. Good luck. It will save you time if you just borrow 3 bulbs from another rider to pass inspection (even if they don't fit your light) than to argue with a French bureaucrat.
-Reflective vest/legs: The inspector will mark your vest so you can't loan it to someone else and subvert the inspection process. Interestingly, my reflective vest was pinched at Loudeac on the inbound leg. Fortunately, I never got busted for it's absence, since I wore a reflective-appearing yellow rain jacket.
-Be sure your brevet card is stamped at the completion of bike inspection.
Hope you find this useful.
*** "Then shalt thou count to three, no more, no less. Three shall be the number thou shalt count, and the number of the counting shall be three. Four shalt thou not count, neither count thou two, excepting that thou then proceed to three. Five is right out. Once the number three, being the third number, be reached, then lobbest thou thy Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch towards thy foe, who, being naughty in my sight, shall snuff it."
-Monty Python and the Holy Grail
By Jeff Bauer
July 15, 2007
Bike inspection at PBP can be both serious and absurd.
My recommendation is to request the earliest inspection time possible. As the day drags on, the lines can get backed up and you spend more time waiting for inspection. Also, if you have any problems during your bike inspection you'll have time to remedy the situation if you start early.
There will be two lines. One for the French riders and one (literally) for "Strangers". In 2003 I was directed to the French line to speed up the process. My lack of the French vocabulary and the inspector's lack of English made for a somewhat comical situation.
Here are some recommendations to pass through your inspection quickly.
-Bring your brevet card, laminated bike number attached to the bike, and bike inspection form (titled: Accuse D'Inscription).
-Mounted taillight(s): demonstrate steady, non-blinking operation.
-Mounted headlights: demonstrate working condition. I had to explain how the Schmidt dynohub worked to my inspector in 2003.
-Brakes: I don't suppose fixed-gear riders will have to argue about the absence of a rear brake.
-Misc: Depending on the zealotry of the inspector and the time of day, they may also check out your stem, headset, bolt adjustments, etc.
-Spare batteries: Even if you use a Schmidt dynohub, it will save you time to carry a sack of AA batteries. In 2003, I borrowed some from another Tennessee Randonneur.
-Spare bulbs: 3 bulbs - no less(***) I don't know why the magic number is three. You can argue that two LED lights are more effective than one non-LED system with three bulbs. Good luck. It will save you time if you just borrow 3 bulbs from another rider to pass inspection (even if they don't fit your light) than to argue with a French bureaucrat.
-Reflective vest/legs: The inspector will mark your vest so you can't loan it to someone else and subvert the inspection process. Interestingly, my reflective vest was pinched at Loudeac on the inbound leg. Fortunately, I never got busted for it's absence, since I wore a reflective-appearing yellow rain jacket.
-Be sure your brevet card is stamped at the completion of bike inspection.
Hope you find this useful.
*** "Then shalt thou count to three, no more, no less. Three shall be the number thou shalt count, and the number of the counting shall be three. Four shalt thou not count, neither count thou two, excepting that thou then proceed to three. Five is right out. Once the number three, being the third number, be reached, then lobbest thou thy Holy Hand Grenade of Antioch towards thy foe, who, being naughty in my sight, shall snuff it."
-Monty Python and the Holy Grail
PBP Drop Bags
PBP Drop Bags
By Jeff Bauer
July 15, 2007
FWIW, here's what I'm planning to carry in my PBP drop bags:
I usually have a couple pairs of shorts and jerseys, spare gloves and socks. As was mentioned earlier, the most important thing if you are wet/cold is dry clothes. Add whatever under/over layers you think you might need -- e.g. if you've been riding all night in the rain, swapping out a pair of dry tights may be nice.
Along with dry clothes, it's probably worth having a couple of spare tubes, spare tire (if you aren't carrying one on your bike), sunscreen, gels, energy bars, drink mix. You'll have plenty of *real* food at the controls, but not much to carry with you between controls. I was unable to find anything like Powerbars, Gatorade, etc., even before the ride.
Spare batteries, backup taillights, LED lights are handy to stow in a drop bag if you're bringing along spares. For me, it's easier just to replace the taillight, rather than fiddle with putting in a fresh set of batteries, though I carry along a spare set on the bike. If you're using CO2, spare cartridges go in the bag.
I usually have a couple of plastic trash bags in each drop bag. These are for dirty clothes, or as an emergency outer layer.
If I'm using water bottles, I may have fresh (clean) water bottles in the drop bag, to reduce the chance of bacteria growth.
By Jeff Bauer
July 15, 2007
FWIW, here's what I'm planning to carry in my PBP drop bags:
I usually have a couple pairs of shorts and jerseys, spare gloves and socks. As was mentioned earlier, the most important thing if you are wet/cold is dry clothes. Add whatever under/over layers you think you might need -- e.g. if you've been riding all night in the rain, swapping out a pair of dry tights may be nice.
Along with dry clothes, it's probably worth having a couple of spare tubes, spare tire (if you aren't carrying one on your bike), sunscreen, gels, energy bars, drink mix. You'll have plenty of *real* food at the controls, but not much to carry with you between controls. I was unable to find anything like Powerbars, Gatorade, etc., even before the ride.
Spare batteries, backup taillights, LED lights are handy to stow in a drop bag if you're bringing along spares. For me, it's easier just to replace the taillight, rather than fiddle with putting in a fresh set of batteries, though I carry along a spare set on the bike. If you're using CO2, spare cartridges go in the bag.
I usually have a couple of plastic trash bags in each drop bag. These are for dirty clothes, or as an emergency outer layer.
If I'm using water bottles, I may have fresh (clean) water bottles in the drop bag, to reduce the chance of bacteria growth.
