Last minute advice for cycling first-timer? <yikes>

[getnthinr]

On Saturday I'm participating in the North Carolina Blueberry Festival Tour de Blueberry Fun Ride. It will be my first cycling event on open roads. I'm a little nervous -- even though it is billed as a relaxed, non-competitive ride for cylists of all abilities. Unlike the cycling portion of the Danskin Tri, the roads will not be closed with volunteers at every turn (but the pavement will be marked).

Any last minute advice from anyone who does this sort of thing?

 

[WDWFAN9]

Sorry, no advice since I can't remember the last time I was on a bike, but I just wanted to say - have fun!!

 

[escape]

Oh, fun!

I just participated in a 35 mile ride this past Saturday - Tour de Rock in Little Rock. This was the first time I had been on the bike all season. Needless to say, I was a little sore afterwards.

You'll do just fine. I'm no expert but this is what I would do....

Having someone to ride with is always a good idea. If not, do you have a bike computer to help you determine what mile you are at? If so, I'd study the map and get a good feel as to where the rest stops (at what mileage) and where the major turns are. If not, study the map anyway to get a feel for the route. More than likely, there will be people riding close by that you can follow, especially at the beginning.

Most of the events that I've participated in have had signs at turns. Some were very small and hard to read, some were just writing in the road, clearly marked.

This sounds like a good event. I'm sure you'll have a lot of fun. Honestly, I enjoy these events more than running/walking events. They are generally more relaxed. One of the events I participated in last year was a blast! The rest stops were all themed stops and were more like big parties than a true rest stop.

I can't wait to hear about your ride! Have fun!

 

[twoWDWfools]

Wendy - these type of events are usually a blast! Ones I've been on give you a cue sheet for the route then mark the pavement. Just be sure if there are multiple distances that you know what color they're marking yours (normally they use colors). Also, there should be SAG wagons that patrol and other riders are very courteous. If you look lost or have flat, etc someone will stop.

Since roads are not closed just remember the rules - stay to the right, signal at turns and do not ride multiple across.

Most importantly have a great time!!

 

[Honeibee]

No advice from me, since I'm not even sure I can ride a real bicycle anymore. But I just wanted to say...Wendy, you are AMAZING! Unstoppable! You're so inspiring!

 

[Mooshu]

Sounds like a fun event!

Just like running make sure you pack everything in your bag the night before...helmet, gloves, water bottle, extra tubes etc.

and as twoWDWfools said, remember the rules of the road...I always like when someone shouts out, "stopping, pot holes, glass, etc." watch the wheel in front of you and don't get too close to it, and ride single file.

Have a fun ride and remember to keep the rubber side down!

 

[getnthinr]

Thanks, everyone, for all the great advice and positive energy. I picked this event because there seemed to be a real emphasis on FUN -- there is no winner. The person I spoke with also told me this would be a goood place for a beginner like me to start. I've been riding the dirt bike trail regularly for about 3 weeks and find riding on pavement is much easier. (Duh) My plan is to stay out of everyone's way as much as possible -- I don't think I'll need to worry about getting too close to anyone <LOL> -- I'll be lucky if I can keep someone in sight!

Susie, thanks for the idea about using the bike computer (which I never think to use for anything but speed to make sure I'm going fast enough!) and the map.

Liz -- Good tip about the colors of road markings too.

Mooshu -- Nearly forgot updating my bike repair kit. I probably need to pick up some tubes and a can of air. (Haven't used that kit since my tri in 2008! 2007?)

Keepin' my fingers crossed!

 

[jmasgat]

Wendy No real advice on my part, just wanted to pop in and say hi and have fun!

Maura

 

[cdn_gal_eeyore]

Good luck Wendy!

Just remember to ride safe:
- Keep as far to the right as possible.
- If you are going to pass someone, be sure to shoulder check first.
- Before you pass be sure to shout out "on your left!" so you don't startle the person you are passing.
- Carry a cell phone, just in case.
- Make sure your helmet is adjusted properly on your head. The strap should not be loose under your chin.

Have a great time!

 

[Tiger Lily 03]

Wendy, no advice from me. I'm interested in what your response is after you've completed your event. I'm considering one here.

Seems like great advice to keep in mind from those who have gone before.

 

[SamSam]

You have received excellent advice already, so I just want to say 'Have Fun!'

I haven't biked for a couple of years, but when I'm out walking I still say (in my head) "on your left".

 

[ironz]

Echoing everything Leana said....
Especially the idea of ride to the right, and pass on the left.

and have fun!!

I use these supported rides in training alot...you have the convenience of a marked route, aid stations, some mechanical support, and a bunch of people to ride with!

 

[Todd and Toni]

Organized rides have a tendency to be watched by representatives of the local law enforcement community so make sure to stop at the stop signs.

 

[mkymsehi]

Ride like your shorts are on fire Wendy!

Be sure to hydrate today, and during the ride. Don't forget a gel, sports beans, or a granola bar of some sort.

Have a great ride!

 

[getnthinr]

OK, heading out to pack up the bike and gear, put my repair kit in place, make sure the phone and camera are stowed away. I'll be going to bed soon because I need to leave waaaaaaaaaay early to get there in time for the pre-ride briefing. Still nervous, but I do think (barring any catastrophe) it should be loads of fun. I may even hang around and check out the festival for a bit -- they seem to have a lot going on.

Thanks for all the great advice. I'm not looking to set any land speed records, but if this ride goes well and I gain some experience, I may try some others nearby later this summer. Whew -- be still my beating heart. (Well, not too still...)

 

[getnthinr]

My race report and photos are on the weekly racing thread.

Thanks so much for your support and encouragement -- it really helped!

 

[SamSam]

My race report and photos are on the weekly racing thread.

Thanks so much for your support and encouragement -- it really helped!

Great report, I enjoyed reading it. It seems as though (overall) it was a good experience and you learned a lot.
Road tires will make a huge difference in the resistance you feel. You need off-road tires for dirt roads, etc., but when you are on pavement, those wide tires make you work much harder.

You make me miss my biking days..............hmmm, maybe I should go out for a trial ride.

 

[twoWDWfools]

Wendy - nice report and congrats!!

The tires can make a world of difference. If going to do more road riding, definitely stop by local bike shop and see about more road friendly tires. I have a hybrid in addition to my road bike and it has tires that will handle road and light off road (crushed limestone).

Glad you enjoyed! It really is a great way to cross train.