BICYCLIST Magazine #153/154 by BICYCLIST

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MAGAZINE

issue 153/154

2018 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in search of dirt

SDMBA MTB trail fest last page

An Outdoor Game Plan ask the coach

Static vs. Dynamic fit event calendar

recreation & race and more

bicyclist. xyz

CONTENTS 10

COLUMNS

Est. 1994

Issue

153/4 LATE fall 2018

04 In Search of dirt 2018 Mount Laguna Trail Fest SDMBA sets the bar high James Murren

05 in practice

The Worst Bike City Solutions for saving lives in la Carl Lawton

06 follow-up

She Crushed the Record Over the shoulder in Bonneville, Utah Kelley O'Toole

07 ask the coach Dynamic vs. Static Bike Fit A comparison of methodologies Rick Schultz

10 Asphalt, Please

Photo courtesy John Woodson

Photo by James Murren

2018 UCI World Championships chasing rainbows in varese, Italy John Woodson

15 Last Page

An Outdoor Gameplan Basics for tour and bikepacking Chris Reynolds

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TRD MRK

03 Prologue 05 King's Cartoon 06 analog/digital 13 reader survey 11 event calendar

Photo by Chris Reynolds

Cover

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Regulars

More than 2,500 riders from 44 countries line the start in the 2018 UCI World Championships held in Varese, Italy. John Woodson takes us over the 6,500 feet of climbing and 80 miles of riding in this Italian variant of 'Asphalt, Please.' Profile on page 10. Photo courtesy UCIGFWS | Post-Process by Erik Scott BICYCLIST Magazine

Br oad Inve s tiga tion o f Challeng ing Your s el f, C ycling L i f e s t y le and In s pir ing S u s t ainable Tran s por t a tion

Prologue

Late Fall 2018 MAGAZINE EDITORIAL

Chris Reynolds | Managing Director chris@bicyclist.xyz Kelley O’Toole | Managing Editor kelley@bicyclist.xyz

COLUMN CONTRIBUTORS

Carl Lawton | carl@bicyclist.xyz Rick Schultz | coach@bicyclist.xyz Rob Templin | rob@bicyclist.xyz John Woodson | john@bicyclist.xyz

ISSUE CONTRIBUTORS

Richard Duquette, Jerry King, Justin Macias, James Murren, Thom Parks, Victor Prestinary, Matt Ben Stone

ILLUSTRATIONS & DESIGN Christopher Massaad Erik Scott

ADVERTISING, SPONSORSHIP AND DISTRIBUTION Chris Reynolds | Advertising chris@bicyclist.xyz

Chris Vopinek | Delivery & Distribution cvopinek@bicyclist.xyz

SOCIAL MEDIA

Luis Suarez | luis@bicyclist.xyz

READ/FOLLOW/LIKE

www.BICYCLIST.xyz @BICYCLIST.xyz  /bicyclist.xyz 

SUBMISSIONS & CONTACT

Visit BICYCLIST.xyz/editorial for guidelines and submission information.

issue 153/4 - late Fall 2018

VITALS & DETAILS

BICYCLIST Magazine publishes stories of experience that fall under our namesake, BICYCLIST: Broad Investigation of Challenging Yourself, Cycling Lifestyle and Inspiring Sustainable Transportation. The magazine serves as an inspirational guide celebrating the arts, skills, events, and culture of the cycling life. BICYCLIST: SoCal & Beyond is a social enterprise promoting bicycle riding for sport, activity, and transportation. We are based in Southern California, an area that accounts for more bike shops, and active cyclists than the rest of the United States – combined. Visit us online at BICYCLIST.xyz. BICYCLIST Magazine is available in print and digital editions. Complimenting the magazine is our cycling podcast, The BICYCLIST Experience. We also maintain the BICYCLIST Friendly Shop Locater, and the BICYCLIST Event Calendar, the largest online calendar of cycling events, races and festivals in the United States, all available online at BICYCLIST.xyz. We have published a print magazine since 1994, distributing to bike shops throughout the western US and made available free to the public. We launched our online platform in 2014, and our podcast in 2015 and now reach readers and listeners in more than 72 countries. Advertise with us to share your message, bicyclist.xyz/ads. Use the code "fineprint" to save an additional 20% off your placement. BICYCLIST Magazine is published 10 times per year. The print edition can be found at better bike shops, coffee shops and breweries throughout major metropolitan cities west of the Rockies. Print copy subscriptions are $20 per year for delivery to the destination of your choice in the United States. For more information, visit www.BICYCLIST.xyz/subscribe

DISCLAIMER

Although all best efforts are made to avoid the same, we reserve the right to publish unintentional mistakes and/or factual errors which may occur on an issue basis. No responsibility is assumed by the publishers for unsolicited materials/articles/letters/advertising and all submissions will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright and/or appropriate licensing purposes subject to BICYCLIST's right to edit and comment editorially.

BICYCLIST: SoCal & Beyond 14252 Culver Drive Irvine, CA 92604 (949) 264-3346 BICYCLIST.xyz maildrop@BICYCLIST.xyz

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The views and opinions expressed in this magazine reflect the opinions of their respective author’s and are not necessarily those of the publisher or the editorial team. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form [print or electronic] without prior consent of the publisher. Riding bikes can be a dangerous and can lead to serious injury or death. Make it safer for everyone and obey all traffic laws, ride responsibly, use common sense, and wear a helmet.

s we wind down towards the end of 2018, we continue our investigation of the bicycling landscape with editorial coverage of road and trail. Serving as background is the event calendar on page 11, your source for events to inspire your training and motivate your adventures. One such adventure that took place this past month was the Mount Laguna Trail Fest put together by SDMBA and sponsored by Zoic Clothing. New contributor James Murren provides a comprehensive look at what took place and helps cement what I'll be doing next October. Read his piece on page 4, the latest addition to our series, In Search of Dirt, where we profile notable mountain biking events in SoCal & Beyond. With this issue's In Practice column, Carl Lawton offers a compelling suggestion in his response to a recent opinion piece that has been making the rounds, decrying Los Angeles as the Worst Bike Cit y in America. He makes the case for increased penalties for perpetrators of hit and run crimes. Read the article on page 5 for more information on his suggested proposition. John Woodson continues his search of great road rides in this issues installment of Asphalt, Please with a journey to the 2018 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships. The UCIGFWC acts as the pinnacle of the twenty-one qualifying Gran Fondos held in more than 4 continents around the globe. The annual event offers the chance for amateur riders from more than 60 countries to compete individually without a sponsor or team requirement. Age brackets from 18 to 65+ showcase the longevity of athleticism found in the cycling community, and this years' race was no exception. Read the race report on page 10. The cover, assembled by Erik Scott, offers his re-envisioning of the provided starting photo through the optics of Woodson's report. A casual but determined grit that permeates the field, in words and photo. Agencies around the world have reported an increase in accidents taking place in the great outdoors over the past year. Local to us, Los Angeles County reported the highest number of Search and Rescues for 2017, and 2018 is on track to exceed that. Certain elements such as the promotion of the outdoors over social media and the desire for selfie-taking in remote locations has driven this. Kelley O'Toole writes The Last Page with a timeless group of best practices when adventuring outside on your next tour or bikepacking trip. Even if to just check the mail, you'd be served to follow the guidance on page 15. Lastly, we have put together the 2018 Reader Survey, where we give you the opportunity to help direct and influence the editorial and content for the magazine. Beyond your opinions, basic information about who reads our magazine helps us find organizations willing to sponsor our efforts. Though we do have a group of extremely generous SuperFans who have subscribed to the print edition, the majority of our support comes from these sponsors. Completing a survey is an easy way to help us out, and I look forward to hearing your thoughts. Visit www.bicyclist.xyz/survey to enter. See you on the route. Stay safe. Peace,

Chris R eynold s

- Chris Reynolds, Managing Director 3

In Search of Dirt

2018 Mount Laguna Trail Fest

Camping and Riding with 275 Friendly Faces at the SDMBA Event By James Murren

ith much needed rain in the forecast, including the possibility of thunderstorms, the spirit in the air for the weekend-long Mount Laguna Trail Fest presented by Zoic Clothing was nothing but positivity and cheer. Many of the 275 registered participants rolled into the festival area on Friday afternoon, set up their tents, parked their RVs and campers, and then squeezed in their first trail ride of the festival before dark set in, with a few more adventurous riders setting out on a guided night ride later in the evening. All weekend long, old friends reunited in the pine-oak forest and new friends were made, the camaraderie of fat tire fiends being ever-present and a joy to see and experience. Indeed, the rain, thunder and lightning arrived overnight Friday into Saturday morning, dropping just the right amount of precipitation to turn the trails to “hero dirt” and providing the meadows, trees, and wildlife a much needed drink. Beginner, Intermediate, and Advanced rides headed out mid-morning, some people opting to demo bikes from Ellsworth, Eminent, Ibis, Marin, Trek, Turner, and Specialized for the rides. Groups stayed mostly in the meadows area and the well-known spider web of trails that go out from it, venturing out on Chico Ravine, Los Gatos, and Red Tail Roost. The more adventurous connected over to Noble Canyon, going down the rocky-in-parts tech fest and then climbing all the way back up to Indian Creek and on to Champagne Pass. Then back around to the meadows, returning to the festival with tired legs but also having a little pep in the step that comes from long rides in the saddle.

City living, country life

Photo courtesy James Murren

Skills clinics on Friday and Saturday ranging from fundamentals to high speed cornering to jumping were put on by Ninja Mountain Bike Performance. Bicycle Warehouse held a workshop on how to fix a flat tire. For the young mountain bikers, a kids’ pump track was set up. There truly was something for everyone, including corn hole games with prizes and a bike scavenger hunt. No matter the age, fun was playing out in every direction you turned your head. Food and drink were aplenty, with Rouleur Brewing providing a specialty beer for the event: Big Laguna Trail Ale. Leap Coffee was on hand to take off the morning chill. Tacos were the Saturday evening meal, followed by BLTs (bacon, lettuce, tomato sandwiches serving as a play on the acronym for the Big Laguna Trail) the next morning for brunch, prepared by REI. There were hot dogs and s’mores, with campfires and entertainment (a film and music) to round out the evenings.

A group of riders make their way up single track during a morning ride in the Mount Laguna area during the inaugural SDMBA Trail Fest. The event saw 275 fellow mountain bikers come together for some epic camping and biking in SoCal. 4

Photo courtesy James Murren

Hero Dirt

Participants scan the list of clinics and rides scheduled for the day, with beginner to advanced routes sketched out, and even a guided night ride for the more adventurous participants.

Camping with Friends

Susie Murphy, Executive Director of San Diego Mountain Bike Association (SDMBA), commented on the positive feedback from participants, thanking the volunteers and volunteer coordinator Karen St. Germain for coming together and coordinating such a superb weekend. Said Murphy, “The first annual SDMBA Mount Laguna Trail Fest presented by Zoic Clothing was a huge success by all accounts. Attendees, vendors and USFS Staff all had great things to say about the sold out weekend full of exploring the Mount Laguna trails. Attendees ranged from age 2 to over 70 and some came from as far away as Canada, Colorado and Arizona. One of the best reviews we received was that the event just seemed like a bunch of friends put together a camping weekend and everyone was welcomed.” A big “thank you” to all the SDMBA partners and industry folks, as well, was expressed by Murphy, including: United States Forest Service/Cleveland National Forest, Zoic Clothing, REI, Ninja Mountain Bike Performance, Ibis, Trek Superstores, Marin, Ellsworth Bicycles, Eminent Cycles, 100%, Trail Boss, Giant/Liv, Bicycle Warehouse, Rouleur Brewing, Velofix, and Julian Beer Co. Monies raised at the event go to Cleveland National Forest to assist in facilitating the Mount Laguna Recreational Trails Plan, part of which includes expanding mountain biking opportunities within the larger federally-managed forest, as well as Laguna Mountain Recreation Area. It is not too early to begin planning for next year’s event, as SDMBA and the US Forest Service envision this to be an annual gathering. Put October 11-13, 2019 on your mountain bike ride/ road trip/race/event calendar and watch SDMBA’s website for registration details as it gets closer. Big Laguna Trail Fest 2019 is an ideal way to enjoy autumnal mountain biking bliss in southern California’s peninsular mountain range. ▲

SDMBA Mount Laguna Trail Fest presented by Zoic LOCATION: Mt. Laguna, San Diego WHEN: October 11-13, 2019 DIFFICULTY: All Levels START: El Prado Campgrounds RIDERS: 20-40 INFO: sDMBA.com

BICYCLIST Magazine

In Practice

THE WORST BIKE CITY Solutions for saving lives in Los Angeles A look at a how hit and runs have disrupted biking in the City of Angels. By Carl Lawton

his past month, Peter Flax, the Los Angeles-based lifestyle journalist writing for Bicycling stated Los Angeles is the worst bike city in America with ample reasoning. Expecting me to disagree? He is 100% right, no question about it! As he also stated, Los Angeles is blessed with a perfect year-round warm biking weather, with very little rain to spoil our day. So where's the disconnect? What ruins the day of people riding bikes is the heavy vehicle traffic that mostly ignores and violates our rights to enjoy this great mode of transportation and generally relegates us bicyclists to the tail end of priorities, if not insignificance in transportation matters. Adding to our biking woes is that Los Angeles is 'The Hit and Run Capital Of The Nation' - a term first coined several years ago by Ray La Hood, who was the Chief of the National Highway and Transportation Safety Agency, NHTSA, in Washington, at that time.

An Increasing Epidemic

Since the phrase was coined by La Hood, the problem has only increased. The 90's Los A ngeles brought the 'drive-by shooting', a regularit y dashed across local T V news. Today, the evening anchors chronicle the alarming number of pedestrian and bicyclist hit and run accidents resulting in serious injur y or death. It is worse now than it has ever been, both in total number and in frequency. The daily body count of mowed-down bike riders and pedestrians killed while legally walking on the city's marked crosswalks or riding on city streets continues to increase with markedly few individuals brought to justice. It must be stated that per California Vehicle Code 20001 it is a felony crime to flee the scene of an accident in which another person has been injured or killed. Though severe, this punishment does not seem to have much effect, though lack of enforcement may be to blame. Statistics show that the overwhelming number of hit and run cases go unsolved, with only 20% resulting in a conviction. And when they do get caught, many are able to work deals with the district attorney to minimize the seriousness of the crime to a misdemeanor, thereby removing any of the punitive force originally intended by the law.

Legislative solutions

With the lack of law enforcements ability to enforce and bring justice to victims and their family, combined with a passive judicial process, what can we do to bring about change to the 'worst bike city in America'? I have been mulling this dilemma for quite some time now. It has been up for debate in my meetings with our government agencies and transportation entities. We are all aware here that something must be done about hit and runs. I propose the following that would require the current law to be either amended or a new law introduced by our legislators in Sacramento. The new law I propose would function as follows:

When the crime of hit and run is committed as per CVC 20001 and results in a serious injury or death of another person, upon conviction and sentencing in a felony case, the perpetrator will be sentenced to the mandatory maximum of 10 years in jail and their California Driver License permanently revoked. Of course before this law could be voted on it would need a petition to gather thousands of signatures. I am certain that all of us in the biking communit y would agree to sign it and help deter if not stop the hit and run epidemic that at present is allowed to run amok and unabated. The life you save might ver y well be your own. â&#x2013;˛

Carl Lawton is an active cyclist who rides bikes and works for the Los Angeles

Department of Transportation. The overlap of these two pursuits provides a unique perspective to learn from. You can reach Carl Lawton at carl@BICYCLIST.xyz

BICYCLIST.xyz

"Yes, the bicycle you bought is really nice. But, you don't need to wear a tie every time you ride it." Jerry King is one of the most published cartoonists in America, a U.S. Army Veteran, and a graduate of Ohio State University. Go Buckeyes!

VISIT BICYCLIST.xyz

Follow-up

Analog/Digital

She Crushed the Record Denise Mueller-Korenek sets the mark high

At a mind-boggling 183 miles an hour, the SoCal local breaks the world paced landspeed men's record, becoming the fastest human to ride a bike. By Kelley O'Toole

ATuneCycling Podcast To keep You Pedaling in to our cycling podcast where the people who bring you this publication discuss the news and stories behind the scenes. We share our experiences and welcome your thoughts about our discussion. First step? Start listening at www.bicyclist.fm!

Photo courtesy Matt Ben Stone

131:

131: Bike the Vote! Tricking Drivers Into Safety, Beer Talk, Outdoor Photography Gear and Starting Points

130: 130: The BICYCLIST Take On ‘Best Cities’ Rankings, Not Getting Doored Rehashed, Bikes Get A Shout-out in the IPCC Report, VW and Harley-Davidson Making Bikes

Mueller-Korenek and driver Shea Holbrook pose in front of the dragster with the other members of Project Speed. Coach John Howard, 2nd from left, is himself a paced record holder with a 1985 speed record of 152 mph, also recorded at Bonneville.

enise Mueller-Korenek of Project Speed set the new World's Paced Bicycle Landspeed Record on September 16th at the Bonneville Salt Flats in Utah with a 183mph ride that more than surpassed the previous record of a 167mph, set by Fred Rompelberg in 1995. For the attempt, Project Speed renovated and overhauled the 26-foot long rail dragster used by Rompelberg with a 1,000 horse power methanol-fueled engine to meet current safety standards. This climatic moment for the team comes after Denise's efforts in 2016 when she became the first woman to attempt and set a paced bicycle land speed record of 147.75mph. Shea Holbrook, a top driver in the Pirelli World Challenge and IHRA Nitro Jam Drag Racing Series (among others), was entrusted with the task of driving the rail dragster. Her calm, controlled demeanor behind the wheel was an important element to Denise's success, especially after the GPS on her bike broke while attempting the record for the first time that day. "For the first time pacing for Denise I drove outside of my comfort zone to get the job done. Every second of the day I’m a tad anxious but when Denise and I leave the starting line all my nerves calm,” said Holbrook. “This is the most intense thing I’ve ever done for obvious reasons (having responsibility for someone else) but you know what['s] crazy? I’d do it again. We made history at the Bonneville Salt Flats and it’s a day I’ll never forget.” Denise was coached again this year by three-time Olympic Cycling Hall-of-Famer John Howard who, prior to Rompelberg, had set the cycling world speed record in 1985 of 152 mph. Howard has been a vocal supporter and advocate of Mueller-Korenek and her pursuits, as well as a insightful mentor and coach. “This world record by these two powerful women is the ultimate definition, and substance of the MeToo movement. On a larger scale it literally redefines the gamut of human potential,” said Howard. The forty-five year old mother of two, and President/CEO of Rancho Santa Fe Security Systems in Encinitas, is passionate about encouraging women to follow their dreams and give it their all. The sky is the limit for what Denise will do next. See you at 200? ▲

Other sponsors and generous partners that helped support the record include KHS Bicycles, SD Wheel Works, National Monitoring Center, Primal Wear, Siren’s & Titans Fitness and InnerOptimal to name a few. 6

We talk an experiment that made drivers more compliant in St. Paul, whether electrolyte beer (and beer in general) is really beneficial for recovery, a local Proposition that would hurt bicyclists, and our tips for outdoor photography and the gear you should have. We cover how some bicyclists are responding to the Best Cities for Biking ranking and the justifications for why Los Angeles is one of the worst cities to bike in. Bicycles make an appearance in the IPCC climate change report, and a woman rides around the world in 125 days.

129: We talk an announcer that made 129: Nix the Outdoor Selfie, Covering Your Tracks in the Wilderness, Times Up for Sexist Announcer, and Floyd Landis Starts a Cycling Team

sexist remarks towards some of the women cyclists in the UCI’s Jingle Cross race, Floyd Landis is building a domestic cycling team, preparation for bathroom emergencies in the wilderness, and the pursuit of extreme selfies is causing untimely deaths.

128:

128: Travel Debrief, The 2018 Interbike Experience, The Risky Business of Electric Scooters, Uber Invests Big in Cycling Advocacy, Why 2017 LA County Search and Rescue Were the HIGHEST on Record

We review our experience as an exhibitor at cycling convention Interbike, we also discuss the first fatal e-scooter share accident just as more people are riding them, Uber CEO invests in bike friendly infrastructure, and how social media is making the outdoors ‘more dangerous’.

127: 127: The Real Problem with e-Scooters, Vuelta a Espana Mayhem, Goodbye to Aqua Blue Sport, Electric Folders Discussed, and Oakland Ride Director Najari Smith Unjustly Arrested

e-Scooter shares and their role in urban cities, the Vuelta a Espana is shocked by low flying helicopter, Aqua Blue Sport Cycling team abruptly ends, and SF ride director Najari Smith is arrested while leading memorial ride for slain woman.

Listen at BICYCLIST.fm / Listen on Apple Podcasts / Get it on Google Play BICYCLIST Magazine

JOIN US! Dynamic vs. Static Fit The benefits provide a clear distinction

Though many have trusted a static fit for their fit needs, a dynamic fit that includes realworld power conditions provides a more accurate portrait of how your body interacts with your bike while riding. The benefit? Comfort and efficiency. By Rick Schultz TERMS

Static Bike Fit - All measurements taken in a static/fixed position. For example, the cyclist is placed in a foot down position then measured, foot forward position then measured, etc.

Dynamic Bike Fit – All measurements are recorded via motion capture camera while the cyclist is pedaling under resistance. The video is analyzed, and changes are made to the bike.

n discussions with other premier bike fitters, most say that there is somewhere between a 4°-6° difference in knee angles between a static bike fit and a dynamic bike fit. Breaking this down, people riding bikes will tend to move either forward or backward in the saddle when under a heavy load. Moving forward or backward places the rider in a different position than when sitting neutral in the saddle as with a no-load condition found in a static fit. Most bike fitters, including myself, agree that a dynamic bike fit is best. The drawback is that this is a longer and therefore more expensive process. But the advantage is the fitter can view and evaluate the rider pedaling under real world loads. The bodies angles are recorded in real-time using a motion-based capture camera running at a high enough frame rate that smooth pedal rotations, for analysis without blurring. The riders' motion is recorded to a file which is then opened in a computer analysis program such as Dartfish. Exact angles can be identified under different loads (if taken) and further precision in the bike fit can be achieved. A dynamic bike fit will put the cyclist closer to their optimal position than a static fit. For an even closer and more precise fit, you must also consider the time of day of your races and get a bike fit at this exact time.

Photo: Jose Galaz

HELP INCREASE ACCESS TO YOUR TRAILS The San Diego Mountain Biking Association is a volunteer-driven, non-profit organization dedicated to maintaining and increasing sustainable trail access for mountain biking in San Diego County.

Join now at SDMBA.com and learn how you can help.

In Context

Does all of this matter? Even with a static bike fit, a good bike fitter will get their client into a better position than by having no bike fit at all. But the same good bike fitter will get their client into an even better and near perfect position with a dynamic bike fit. On average, a dynamic bike fit is about $100 more than a static bike fit. This is because with a dynamic bike fit, the fit needs to be accomplished first, then, the bike fitter need to spend extra time copying the dimensions from the fit bike (Guru, Retul, Purely Custom, Shimano) machine onto the riders bicycle. Of course, this is assuming that the bike fitter pays attention to detail as well as knows how to correctly and accurately copy measurements from the bike fit machine to the actual bicycle. Another option employed by a good bike fitter is to use the clients bicycle on a Computrainer and motion-based cameras and analysis software. In this example, the bike fit is a little more difficult to perform but once done, all updates have already been made to the clients’ bicycle. Since there are several variables at play here, a good bike fitter will know how to use them to help you with the perfect fit. The only caveat is that you, the client, need to find a bike fitter who understands these methodologies and can use them effectively. ▲

Coach Rick Schultz specializes in coaching cyclists so that they can achieve their best. He is a certified bike fitter and author of Bike Fit 101: Your Toolset for a Great Bike Fit. Send your questions to coach@bicyclist.xyz or ask on twitter @BICYCLISTxyz #askthecoach

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Make an appointment for coaching and bike fits. Mobile services available, visit bicyclist.xyz/fit

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Asphalt, please

Chasing

2018 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships | Varese, Italy An amateur racing opportunity that travels the globe in search of the fastest men and women. Could it be you in 2019? By John Woodson

UCI Gran Fondo Worlds - 2018 LOCATION Varese, Italy DISTANCE 130 km, 1950m | 105 km, 1450m DIFFICULTY Advanced START Town Center HOST UCI, Alfredo Binda Cycling Team Varese Highlights Lake Maggiore and Lake Varese

’m on the start line at the World Championships, trying to stay calm, play it cool, but goose bumps on my arms and a rabbit’s foot tucked in my jersey give me away. In a multicolored sea of national team jerseys - I’m wearing the stars and stripes - it’s pretty awesome, and unnerving. A f t er 21 i nd iv idu a l qu a l i f y i n g event s on fou r continents, the best amateur riders from 60 countries are in Varese, Italy to compete in the Gran Fondo World Championships. Today, 2,500 amateur racers and me, a journalist pretending to be a racer, are ready to start with rainbow-striped world champion jerseys on the line. For an amateur cyclist, there is a no more coveted jersey in the world.

2018 Details

The 130 kilometers (80.3 miles) race winds among shaded forests, old villages and stunning blue lakes while tackling 1,950 meters (6,397 feet) of climbing over 6 peaks - Alpe Tedesco, Brusimpiano, Montegrino Valtravaglia, Porto Valtravaglia, Brinzio and Casbeno. Packed like sardines between Italian terracotta-colored buildings on narrow streets, I throw my jacket to my wife and say a quick prayer to St. Francis de Sales (patron saint of journalists), and zip up the stars and stripes. Right on time as church bells chime thousands of cleats click into pedals. It’s a wonderful sound, followed by not-so-wonderful pain in my legs as riders in the rampaging peloton swarm ahead, past and around each other. Within 10km, I’ve dodged, evaded and - with the help of my rabbit’s foot - escaped 4 crashes. All the halting, braking and stopping just to stay upright is costly, moving me backward rather than forward for the first climb - Alpe Tedesco. It’s the perfect way to end the start of a good day.

Alpe Tedesco

At 5km in length Alpe Tedesco is the longest, steepest and narrowest climb on the course. Barely 3 riders wide, it twists up the mountainside via a half-dozen sharp switchbacks. Joining a long processional of riders huffing, puffing and struggling to turn pedals, I slowly claw my way through the field. 10

ABOVE LEFT Lake Maggiore in Varese, a city and commune in northern Italy, 35 miles from Milan. ABOVE RIGHT Riders pass through Roggiano in the Valtravaglia region, some enjoying the technical section more than others. With more than 6,300' of climbing over 80 miles at race pace, the sweatdripping stares are focused. I catch Paulo Sussan (ITA) wearing a classic blue Italian team jersey and a yellow number, indicating he too is racing in the 55-59 age category. Without words we push forward and upwards, looking to catch riders. After the summit we discover the technical descent is as challenging as the climb. No respite is given on the butt-clinchingly steep hairpin filled descent. With extra enthusiasm and ambient testosterone in the air, some riders overcook the corners, sitting dazed on the side of roads as we fly past. This racing up and down mountains on narrow roads is to be repeated again, and again, and again today. Great bike handling skills are not optional. Get caught behind a slow rider going up, or down, and you chase wheels all day just to hang on. An hour of intense wheel chasing puts Paulo and me in a small band of old men with the same yellow-colored numbers, with many still up the road – or sitting by the side of the road. Nobody talks. Nobody soft-pedals. Nobody sits in. Everyone gives 110%. This is the World Championships. It’s why we train 15000 kilometers in pouring rain, intense heat and frigid cold. It’s why we get up at 5AM before work to climb the same road 10 times in a row until we’re ready to throw-up. It’s why we obsess over equipment, nutrition and always want to lay down rather than sit or stand.

Bumps In The Road

In Roggiano Valtravaglia, bikes rattle and bounce over pavé laid centuries ago. Just like in Paris Roubaix, I ride a tightrope narrow strip of stone on the shoulder to avoid a brutal beating. My hands appreciate the smooth ride, but I fall behind on the descent when a GBR rider fishtails off the road. Nobody blinks, waits or even looks back. Now 15 seconds back, I work with a big wall of a rider from Germany to close the gap. It’s do-or-die time. About 2km later we rejoin the group, exhausted. Thank you, St. Francis de Sales. More climbing, descending and on-the-rivet riding puts us along the shores of Lake Varese. My legs are not in a

happy place, though. Tired, spent and ready to cramp, the finish is still 10km away.

Summit Fever

The final 3km climb into Varese pushes riders past their limit. I am not immune and my legs protest actively with cramps. A minute of easy pedaling gives new life and I set my sights on catching Paulo, once again. Like a guided missile locked on target I start to reel him in. With 500m to go the gap is 8 seconds. 300m and 4 seconds. At 200m I catch Paulo and we sprint to the line, where I pip him by 0.25 seconds. A lthough finishing far behind the 55 -59 winner, Patrick Cocquytf of Belgium, Paulo and I are all smiles, happy to place 132nd and 133rd out of 2 69 r ider s in our categor y. Plus, I am the first journalist to cross the line, and at least in my book that’s worthy of a world championship rainbow pen. [Ed. Note: In the works.] R iding in the Gran Fondo World Championships i s a n awesome once -i n-a-l i fet i me ex per ience. O r m aybe t wice, si nce I pl a n to defend my r a i nbow pen title in 2 02 0 when the championships come to North American in Vancouver, Canada. Although, I might find my way to Poznan, Poland in 2019. I hear it’s a flat course… --John ▲ Ready for 2019 in Poznan, Poland? Find rides that qualify for the next Gran Fondo World Championships in the BICYCLIST event calendar at www.BICYCLIST.events.

JOHN WOODSON lives and rides in New Mexico, a legendary character that is always on the lookout for legendary rides. Or even less than legendary. But always a good experience. Do you organize or participate in a recurring event or club ride that qualifies? Let him know; jwoodson@bicyclist.xyz

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Available; titanium, carbon and aluminum versions…

And Jones Bicycles too!

Photo courtesy UCIGFWS

The ‘world famous’ H-Bar ™

BELOW LEFT The starting line brings together 2,500 riders from around the world who have all qualified by placing in the top positions at one of the 21 qualifying events held in more than 4 continents. The 2019 World Championships will be held in Poznan, Poland. Is it your time to start training and qualify? BELOW RIGHT Author John Woodson takes a minute to offer the 'finishing smile', representing the stars and stripes amongst the participants from 60 other countries, across age groups 18 to 65+.

Ample space for bags, lights, GPS’s, etc.

All standard flat bar controls fit

Natural 45° sweep and extra long grip area for multiple hand positions

Note: H-grips, tape (and controls) not included (but crucial)

The H-Bar is the perfect upgrade for a drop, flat, or riser bar on a road, touring, or mountain bike.

The H-Bar™ gives you the hand and body positions to ride better, longer, and more comfor tably. Standard 0.5” rise and the new 2.5” rise to cover all of your handlebar needs.

Jones Bikes.com

BICYCLIST.xyz

INSTAGRAM

Est. 2002 24/05/2018 20:22

Photo courtesy John Woodson

JONES_SoCal_bicyclist_advert_v1.indd 3

INSTAGRAM

Events Calendar November 2018 1-3 Multi

Sagan Fondo: ROAD Windsor Bike Monkey ROAD: 22, 62, 80.5 miles NCa Windsor Road

3 Saturday

Bike/Taste the Coast Spectrum Sports ROAD: 7-100 miles

___________________________________________________________________

Oceanside

SCa

Oceanside Pier ____________________________________________________

Cycle of Hope Palo Alto Habitat for Humanity East Bay/Silicon Valley ROAD: 17, 32, 62, and 100 miles

NCa

Hewlett Packard HQ ____________________________________________________

Ride in the Rocks Ride in the Rocks MTB: 15, 23 miles

Lucerne Valley

SCa

MTB

Rabbit Springs Rd. ____________________________________________________

Intermediate MTB Crusher Bicycle Warehouse MTB: 10-15 miles

San Diego

SCa

MTB

Penasquitos Creek Park ____________________________________________________

Catalina Island Tri & Duathlon Renegade Racing TRI/DU: Sprint and Relay

Catalina

SCa Tri

Avalon ____________________________________________________

Mike Nosco Memorial Ride

Mike Nosco Memorial ROAD: 48, 62, 80 miles Brochard Park

Newbury Park

SCa

___________________________________________________________________

3-4 Multi

Golden State Fall Series Southridge Racing Family MTB: DH, XC, Enduro

Fontana

SCa

MTB

Southridge Park ____________________________________________________

24 Hours of SoCal SoCal Endurance MTB: Endurance

SCPS 2-3: Spooky Cross-Itas SoCalCross Prestige Series CX: Course

4 Sunday

Dinosaur Dash XXVIII Tustin Public Schools Foundation ROAD: 5, 15, and 50k

Temecula

SCa

MTB

38000 CA-79 ___________________________________________________

Ventura

SCa CX

11311 Santa Ana Rd. ___________________________________________________________________

Tustin

SCa

The Marketplace ____________________________________________________

Specialized Monthly Donut Ride

Specialized Bicycles ROAD: 23 miles Specialized Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa

SCa

____________________________________________________

Chalan Challenge to Crystal Lake

Chalan Cycling Club ROAD: 30 miles Crystal Lake

Irwindale

SCa

____________________________________________________

GUIDE TO THE CALENDAR

2018

We do our best to comb the wild west of cycling event websites to get the information you need to make the most of your time in the saddle. We provide this comprehensive listing, without endorsement, but we ask that you support the events that support the magazine. To submit your event, and view the full calendar with event details, visit www.BICYCLIST.events.

SIGNS & SYMBOLS Date

Giro d'Vino

Acampo

DV Cycling and MDW Sports ROAD: 75 km Woodbridge Winery

NCa

____________________________________________________

Bay Area Super Prestige CX Race SuperPro Racing CX: Course

San Mateo

NCa CX

Coyote Point Recreation Area ____________________________________________________

Newport Dunes Triathlon California Triathlon TRI: Olympic, Sprint, Relay

Newport Beach

4-11 Multi

Women's Performance Camp Santa Ynez USA Cycling Coaches ROAD: Camp SCa Solvang

9-11 Multi

Santa Rosa Cup CX Bike Monkey CX: Competitive

SCa Tri

Newport Dunes ___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

Santa Rosa

NCa MX

Sonoma County Fairgrounds ____________________________________________________

Revolution Bike Fest Revolution MTB: Festival & Racing Castaic Lake

10 Saturday

Tour de Foothills Spectrum Sports ROAD: 20-100 miles

Los Angeles

SCa

MTB

___________________________________________________________________

Upland

SCa

210 E. A Street ____________________________________________________

Palm Desert Century Shadow Tour ROAD: 20-130 miles

Palm Desert

SCa

University Park ____________________________________________________

Honor Ride Las Vegas Project Hero ROAD: 20, 40, 60 miles

Las Vegas

Clark County Gov't Center ____________________________________________________

Figueroa Mountain GranFondo CTS ROAD: 31, 44, 96 miles

Santa Ynez

Ride the Point Point Loma Rotary Club ROAD: 10, 25, 62 miles

San Diego

NCa

Gainey Vineyard ____________________________________________________

SCa

Liberty Station ____________________________________________________

BEST Ride: My Figtastic Tour LACBC ROAD: 5.3 miles

Los Angeles

10-11 Multi

SCPS 4-5: SLO CX Weekend SoCalCross Prestige Series CX: Course Location TBA

San Luis Obispo

16-18 Multi

Bootleg Canyon Demo Fest Bootleg Canyon Gravity Racing MTB: Demo

SCa

USC Metro Station ___________________________________________________________________

SCa CX

___________________________________________________________________

Boulder City

MTB

Bootleg Canyon MTB Park ___________________________________________________________________

Day

Event Name Organizer TYPE: length

City, State

FEATURES

Location

MAGAZINE SUPPORTERS support the sponsors COMPETITION events with posted participants and results R ROAD events with 90% or more paved route MTB MOUNTAIN events with 90% or more dirt trail MX MIXED events containing both road and dirt FX FIXED events requiring fixed geared bicycles TRACK events on a closed oval track CX CYCLOCROSS closed course road/mtb hybrid GX GRAVEL fire roads, grinders and adventure rides Tri TRIATHLON running, swimming, and biking BICYCLISM arts, entertainment and BIKES! SCa NCa

Nv Co

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NORTHERN CALIFORNIA NEVADA COLORADO

17 Saturday

OREGON WASHINGTON ARIZONA AND BEYOND

Or Wa

Death Valley Century Planet Ultra ROAD: 50, 100 miles

Death Valley

SCa

The Oasis at Death Valley ____________________________________________________

Peloton Gravel Mob The Mob Shop and PELOTON MIXED: 30, 58 miles

Ojai

SCa

The Mob Shop ____________________________________________________

Padres Pedal the Cause Pedal the Cause ROAD: 25-100 miles

San Diego

SCa

Petco Park ____________________________________________________

El Tour de Tucson Perimeter Bicycling Association ROAD: 28-106 miles

Tucson

Armory Park ____________________________________________________

Bikes & Beers San Diego Bikes & Beers ROAD: 15, 30 miles

San Diego

Coronado Bay Bike Ride Bicycle Warehouse ROAD: 12-15 miles

San Diego

17-18 Multi

27th Annual Challenge Southridge Racing Family MTB: DH, XC, Enduro

Fontana

SCa

Société Brewing Company ____________________________________________________

SCa

Coronado Ferry Broadway Pier ___________________________________________________________________

SCa

MTB

Southridge Park ____________________________________________________

SCPS 6-7: MovalCX SoCalCross Prestige Series CX: Course

Moreno Valley

SCa CX

Location TBA ___________________________________________________________________

BICYCLIST Magazine

18 Sunday

Las Vegas Double Century Adobo Club Chapter ROAD: 100,193 miles

Henderson

Bay Area Super Prestige Race SuperPro Racing CX: Course

San Mateo

Turkey Tri & Pumpkin Pie Kids Du Renegade Racing TRI/DU: Relay and Kids

San Dimas

Fiesta Hotel and Casino ___________________________________________________

NCa CX

Coyote Point Recreation Area ____________________________________________________

SCa Tri

Bonelli Park ____________________________________________________

24 Hours of SoCal SoCal Endurance MTB: Endurance

25 Sunday

SCPS 8: Turkey Trot Cross SoCalCross Prestige Series CX: Course

Temecula

SCa

MTB

38000 CA-79 ___________________________________________________________________

Glendale

SCa CX

Location TBA ____________________________________________________

CX Nation Cup NCNA District Championships CX: Timed Course

Sonoma

NCa CX

Maxwell Park

December 2018 1 Saturday

SCPS 9-10: CXOC Weekend SoCalCross CX: Competitive Irvine Lake

2 Sunday

Piru (20k) Time Trial Uncle Tren Race Productions MTB: Endurance Fillmore

Silverado

11-13 Multi

BWR Survival Camp Santa Barbara Source Endurance MIXED: Camp SCa Lakehouse Hotel

13-15 Multi

Tour Del Sol St. George Ride Southern Utah MTB: Group rides MTB Red Rock Bicycle Co.

26 Saturday

Low Gap Grasshopper Adventure Series MIXED: 43 miles Low Gap Park

___________________________________________________________________

Ukiah

NCa MX

February 2019 9 Saturday

Velo Love Ride Chico Velo ROAD: 40, 60, 100 miles Belmont Shores

16 Saturday

Camino Real Double Century Planet Ultra ROAD: 200 miles La Quinta Inn

Chico

SCa

___________________________________________________________________

Irvine

SCa

____________________________________________________

Super Sweetwater Grasshopper Adventure Series MIXED: 52, 73 miles Sweetwater Springs Rd.

Willow Creek

NCa MX

SIGNS & SYMBOLS Date

Day

Event Name Organizer TYPE: length

City, State

FEATURES

Location

Nv Co

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NORTHERN CALIFORNIA NEVADA COLORADO

Or Wa

OREGON WASHINGTON ARIZONA AND BEYOND

SCa CX

___________________________________________________________________

Fillmore

SCa

MTB

____________________________________________________

CicLAvia Heart of LA CicLAvia ROAD: Open Streets

Los Angeles

Presents

SCa

Downtown LA ____________________________________________________

Specialized Monthly Donut Ride

Specialized Bicycles ROAD: 23 miles Specialized Costa Mesa

Costa Mesa

SCa

___________________________________________________________________

8-9 Multi

SCPS 11-12: CXLA Weekend SoCalCross CX: Competitive Location TBA

Los Angeles

8 Saturday

Dirty 30(ish) Quick n Dirty MTB: 30 miles 13920 CA-67

Lakeside

9 Sunday

CA Fat Bike Championships Rim Nordic Racing MTB: XC and DH Rim Nordic Ski Park

15-16 Multi

SCPS 13-14: Santa Cross Finals SoCalCross CX: Competitive Location TBA

SCa CX

___________________________________________________________________

SCa

MTB

___________________________________________________________________

Running Springs

SCa

MTB

Share your thoughts about our work

___________________________________________________________________

Riverside

SCa CX

January 2019 5-6 Multi

Cross Fever 1-2: Corriganville SoCalCross CX: Competitive Location TBA

Simi Valley

SCa CX

Giveaway after you finish!

www.bicyclist.xyz/survey

___________________________________________________________________

BICYCLIST.xyz

Events Calendar

2018

February 2019

23 Saturday

17 Sunday

YHS of Arizona Bike-a-Thon Scottsdale Yeshiva High School of Arizona ROAD: 2.5-70 miles Az Mountain View Park

23 Saturday

Harding TT SAW Sports Productions MTB: 9 mile course Cook's Corner

___________________________________________________________________

Trabuco Canyon

SCa

MTB

March 2019 2 Saturday

Mesquite Madness Ride Southern Utah ROAD: 35, 65, 90 miles

Mesquite

Mesquite Community Center ____________________________________________________

Mulholland Prelude

Planet Ultra ROAD: 70 miles Hampton Inn

Agoura Hills

SCa

____________________________________________________ Southern Inyo Double Century Lone Pine

Inyo Ultra Cyclists ROAD: 199 miles Comfort Inn

SCa

___________________________________________________________________

9 Saturday

Solvang Century, Metric and Half Bike SCOR ROAD: 51, 55, 70, 100 miles Marriott Hotel

Buellton

15-17 Multi

NAHBS Sacramento North American Handmade Bike Show FESTIVAL: Bike Makers & Builders NCa Sacramento Convention Center

SCa

___________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________

Malibu Invitational Westlake Village Haute Route ROAD: 203 miles total SCa Four Seasons

16 Saturday

Malibu Gran Fondo Westlake Village Serious Cycling ROAD: 106, 151 kms SCa Four Seasons

___________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________ Saddleback Gran Fondo Irvine

Renegade Racing ROAD: 1-100 miles Irvine Valley College

SCa

____________________________________________________

Strada Rossa VI IE Biking Alliance MIXED: 100 miles, 100 kms, 50 kms

Redlands

16-17 Multi

Malibu Complete Experience Westlake Village Serious Cycling ROAD: 35, 106, 151 kms SCa Four Seasons

SCa

Wildwood Canyon State Park ___________________________________________________________________

___________________________________________________________________

GUIDE TO THE CALENDAR

SIGNS & SYMBOLS Date

Tour of Paso Bike Ride Paso Robles Founder's Team Challenge ROAD: 26, 50 miles SCa Niner Wine Estates

____________________________________________________

Nogales Bicycle Classic Nogales Bicycle Classic ROAD: 40, 60, 87 miles Nogales

Nogales

____________________________________________________

Bike MS: Los Angeles National MS Society ROAD: 30, 55, 100 miles

Pasadena

SCa

Rose Bowl ____________________________________________________

Solvang Double Century Planet Ultra ROAD: 200 miles

Solvang

SCa

Santa Ynez Valley Mariott ____________________________________________________

Lake Sonoma MTB Grasshopper Adventure Series MTB: 25 miles

Geyserville

25-31 Multi

Solvang Spring Tour Planet Ultra ROAD: Tour TBD

NCa MX

Warm Springs Rec. Area ___________________________________________________________________

Solvang

SCa

Day

Event Name Organizer TYPE: length

City, State

FEATURES

Location

Nv Co

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA NORTHERN CALIFORNIA NEVADA COLORADO

OREGON WASHINGTON ARIZONA AND BEYOND

Or Wa

April 2019

13 Saturday

6 Saturday

Spring Tour of St. George St. George Ride Southern Utah ROAD: 35, 75, 100 miles St. George's Town Square

Mulholland Challenge Double

Party Pardee Metric Century Sacramento Bike Hikers ROAD: 50, 100k

20 Saturday

Primavera Century Fremont FFBC ROAD: 25-100 miles NCa Mission San Jose HS

27 Saturday

Wildflower Century SLOBC ROAD: 45, 75 Miles

____________________________________________________

Sacramento

NCa

TBA ____________________________________________________

Gran Fondo Las Vegas Planet Ultra ROAD: 70-100 miles

Las Vegas

Las Vegas Cyclery ____________________________________________________

Tustin

Mulholland Challenge Los Angeles Planet Ultra ROAD: 60, 90, 120 miles SCa Agoura Hills

____________________________________________________

Los Angeles Planet Ultra ROAD: 200 miles SCa Agoura Hills

___________________________________________________________________

Creston

SCa

Skaggs and Super Skaggs

Non Dot Gran FUNdo Non Dot Adventures MTB: TBA TBA

6-7 Multi

Eroica California L'Eroica ROAD: 35-130 miles Cambria

7 Sunday

Campagnolo GranFondo San Diego San Diego GranFondo Cycling Tours ROAD: 21-100 miles SCa Downtown San Diego

3-5 Multi

Wildflower Experience Wildflower Experience TRI: Sprint and Relay Lake San Antonio Shore

11-14 Multi

Sea Otter Classic Festival Monterey North American Handmade Bike Show FESTIVAL: Races and Rides NCa Laguna Seca Mazda Raceway

4 Saturday

Fremont XC Race OC MTB MTB: 17 miles Fremont Canyon

SCa

___________________________________________________________________

Cambria

SCa

___________________________________________________________________

Creston Community Center ____________________________________________________

Grasshopper Adventure Series MIXED: 96 miles Warm Springs Rec. Area

Geyserville

NCa MX

May 2019 Bradley

NCa Tri

___________________________________________________________________

Irvine

SCa

MTB

___________________________________________________________________

BICYCLIST Magazine

last page

An outdoor Gameplan

Basics for Making your Tour or Bikepacking adventure Successful and Safe Prepare your present self; your future self thanks you. By Chris Reynolds

Prior planning prevents poor performance

For the cartography buffs, this tip may seem like a obvious one, but for those eager beavers who want to get on the trail, direction not-with-standing, it's worth taking the time to review the terrain and surrounding areas. Wander-losting is a great way to explore an area, but have a general lay of the land before you head out. Side-trails can turn into canyon descents, fire roads can turn into heavily trafficked automobile pathways. User contributed projects such as MTB Project, Traillink, and even Hiking Project can be useful for understanding terrain. Google Maps has been updating their maps with more relevant cycle information including an elevation chart for biking or walking, which gives users an idea of how much effort they can expect to exert for their route, but Ride with GPS still reigns supreme for route planning with a dedicated tool-set that makes plotting your next trip a breeze.

Check the weather, dude

Considering the climate is important when selecting apparel and determining your departure. Have an awareness of high and low temperatures for the area you will be in and adjust your apparel and water requirements accordingly. Check for any indications of incoming inclement weather and modify your provisions as required. For wet weather, the adage 'cotton kills' holds true and is to be avoided. We prefer merino wool for moisture-wicking and temperature regulation, though suitable synthetics do exist. For hot weather, UV protecting Lycra in light colors is the ticket.

The Night Before

Photo by Chris Reynolds

ince the advent of the bicycle, two-wheeled outdoor adventures have been part of bicyclist culture. With today’s access to public lands, developments in multi-surface terrain bikes, and the electric variants cropping up exponentially, more and more adventure seekers are capable of riding up steep mountains and through forest roads. However, with more access comes more risk of calamity. Various reports have come out showing a sharp increase in deaths in the outdoors and wilderness over the past year. Most disconcerting, a striking up-tick in deaths while taking selfies. While we are the first to encourage an epic adventure, we want to emphasize the importance of preparing for success and safety. To that end, we provide some generalized considerations before seeking adventure. Review, then seek your destiny among the roads and trails beyond. Go forth and explore!

The great outdoors is ready for exploration, whether on road or trail. No matter the surface, our guideliness will keep you rolling steady, confident and safe in your preparations and planning.

Resources (Free and Otherwise) Adventure Cycling Association The ACA has a long legacy of promoting touring North America by bicycle,

Set aside time to prepare a small bag of some essential tools the night before. Your journey will dictate the gear selection, but don't wait until the morning of departure to decide what to bring. Be mindful to select a bag or case that will suit the weather of the area you’re traveling, and also light enough to not slow you down. A small handlebar bag is convenient, very portable, and allows for easy access while on the bike. Include the essentials in this bag: extra tubes and levers if applicable, inflation device, picture ID, a bike multi-tool, 200-300 calories of food. Proceed with provisioning as required from there.

and is a great resource for the touring bicyclist. They are responsible for establishing the most expansive network of tours throughout the United States, and their maps are a cartographic dream for the touring and bikepacking bicyclist. Beyond route information, they lead self-supported and van-supported organized tours and bikepacking adventures that vary in length from overnight to over summer. www.adventurecycling.org

Early Bird Gets the Worm

provision the bikepacker and touring bicyclist. Along with the gear, they also offer a selection of free and paid classes available at locations throughout the United States. www.REI.com/events

Starting early helps lessen the risk of suffering through the high heat of the day. Additionally, you’ll be giving yourself enough time to get where you need to go before dark, with a buffer for a nap in a tree, a swim in a stream, or whatever unexpected surprise you may find on your tour. There is no excitement quite like chasing the falling sun as it makes it's way behind a ridge on the way to base camp, but there is also nothing worse than way-finding in the dark. Start early, go further.

Share your plans

Bring a friend. This will greatly increase the chances of getting help quickly. If you choose to go it alone, let those close to you know your plans for a wilderness trek with route information and an understood check-in protocol in the event that you don't arrive home as planned You may want to turn on location sharing services on your phone as an extra precaution. If you have an iPhone, access your “Find my Friends” app and send a request to share location services. If you are in a club or have a lot of cycing friends, create a Facebook or MeetUp event page a few weeks before your ride. You can communicate with everyone through these channels, and it also informs others as to where you'll be and what you'll be doing. ▲ BICYCLIST.xyz

Recreational Equipment, Inc. REI, the outdoor retailer, has made a big push over the past two years to better

RIDE WITH GPS The utility provides tremendous value and utility for planning, discovering

and wayfinding routes near you. Many uploaded rides are complete with notes and details to make the most of your time in the saddle. Other offerings exist, but the user-uploaded detail and information on specific routes is very helpful to the planning stage of your ride. www.ridewithgps.com

BIKEPACKING.com If spending multple nights on your bike away from the glitter of city lights

sounds like a dream come true, the good folks at BikePacking.com have put together a tremendous resource that details routes all around the world, some truly awe-inspiring rides. And for the nuts and bolts of bikepacking logistics, their BikePacking 101 series is a great place to start. www.bikepacking.com