Route: mostly gravel and usually friendly conditions but those graders and chloride can hit at any time so no promises. This route is rated flat for our local scene but there are a few fun climbs on Rolston, so save some in the tank for that!
Ride will start at 6 PM Sharp!!! We roll together to the sub at the intersection of Hogan and Acorn Way. Here we re-group and depart on the 30 mile, 22 mile or 17 mile routes.
Riders can make their own plan but in general you can expect the 30 mile riders to average 20mph or faster. This group utilizes pace lines and it is possible to be dropped. You should be comfortable navigating if you go with this group!
22 mile and 17 mile routes stick together for the first 9 miles! Riders on these routes are usually either 12-13 mph or 15-16 mph.
The 17 mile route only has a sweeper. If you are unsure of the route we recommend going with a group you are confident you can hang with. Do not ride above your fitness where you may get dropped if you are not confident that you can find your way back to the start.
RidewithGPS and Strava routes provided below for each distance
30 Miles: Strava: https://www.strava.com/routes/2815760252658859032
RideWithGPS: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/36986076
22 Miles:
RideWithGPS: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/36961128
Strava: https://www.strava.com/routes/2822871263318066162
17 Miles:
RideWithGPS Map: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/33912295
Strava Map: https://www.strava.com/routes/2729341010040416332
Garmin Connect: https://connect.garmin.com/modern/course/54435992
Required Gear:
· Dirt road capable bike in proper working condition! CX, Gravel, Fat, MTB, Hybrid & dirt road capable E-Bikes are all welcome on this ride. We do not recommend tires under 30mm in width. 35mm+ is preferred.
· HELMET no exceptions
· Water
· Weather appropriate clothing
Recommended Gear:
· Rear red light, front white light
· Flat Kit (spare tube, pump/co2 inflator and CO2/tire lever/multi-tool with appropriate tools for your bike)
· Cell phone
· Snack
· Padded cycling shorts
GFAC Ride Etiquette:
• Show up prepared and on time. Out of respect for others we will not delay the ride start for someone who is late. It is completely okay if you are familiar with the route and have a plan to catch up. In other words, if you are late, plan to find us on the route.
• Use hand signals to indicate stopping & turning. If you are riding in a pack please also point out the most egregious potholes, sudden loose gravel, etc. If you'd like to familiarize yourself with hand signals you can watch this video by GCN here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=prYMM7D2qF8
• Call out traffic: "Car Up" and "Car Back"
• SAFETY FIRST. When you hear "car up" and "car back" it is your responsibility to move to the side of the road and ride single file. This is a group ride, we need to share the road and cars always win!
• KINDNESS MATTERS. This group is intentional in our efforts to help people grow as cyclists. If you are a more experienced cyclist please take the time to help others when the opportunity arises. Examples: (1) When someone is learning to ride clipped in and they fall over at a stop sign, help them up and remind them it is extremely common (2) If someone doesn't signal it may be that they just don't know they should. Lead by example and/or kindly let them know where a signal would be appropriate
• If someone is having a mechanical issue on the ride and you are able to help, please do!
Bathrooms: Seasonal port-a-potties at the parking lot and permanent outhouses by the playground.
Parking: Free parking at Linden County Park. We will meet on the park side (not the beach side) at the dirt parking lot towards pavilion 4. This is past the playground. You will enter the park off Whittaker Road. Park Address for GPS is 15349 Linden Rd, Linden, MI 48451
Questions, comments or concerns email: greaterflintathleticclub@gmail.com