People have been asking about the ride, anything from whether their bikes will work for it to how much water/food they should bring.
So to answer a few of these questions, here you go:
Bikes
The ride will be multi-surface in the dry season, so bring some tires that you’re comfortable riding on dry single track rides. These are hiking trails mostly, and pretty tame ones, so don’t expect rooty stuff, drops or jumps, just your average walking trail. They’re just not paved. Besides that, we’re going to be on some gravel roads, also dry, and pavement.
There will be climbing, some big climbs and some ups and downs. Bring something you’ll be comfortable on for some climbs. It’s nice to have a bail out gear so you don’t have to hike too much.
Besides that, we’ll be spending a long time in the saddle, so make sure you have a comfy seat and most likely a chamois (padded shorts).
Someone’ll probably get a flat, so bring tubes/flat repair kits. Besides that, make sure your gear is tuned up.
Mountain bikes are not necessary, but if you want to ride one, giver. I’ve done almost every part of this ride on a steel road bike from the 80s. Some of it was a bit sketchy, but I was OK and you’ll be OK too!
Bring lights if you want, but we’ll be done before sunset.
Would also be good to have a copy of the map, which I’ve made downloadable.
Clothing
It’s probably gonna be hot. Wear something you’re gonna be comfy in. Comfy shoes that you can ride all day in, or bike shoes. We’ll be stopping at swimming holes too, so bring something you’re happy to swim in. Skinny dipping optional.
Wear some fuckin’ sun screen.
I’ll probably wear a hawaiian shirt and board shorts maybe? It depends on the weather.
Food/Drink
For the ride itself, you’re responsible for feeding yourself. Bring snax, electrolytes and lots of water. It’s gonna be mid September, so the weather could be kind of all over the place. Crossing my fingers for warmth, though. We’ll pass by a convenience store after the first 30 km or so, then we’ll go through Comox so if you do need to stop there are stores and whatever. Last year we had a trail angel, and though I have not confirmed it again there’s always a possibility that could happen again!
The Ride
If you have not done a ~100 km ride before, please go on a long ride sometime before the Rambler. There is lots of time between now and then, and it makes a lot of sense to know what your body needs in terms of food, comfort and hydration. It also helps to know your bike, especially for long days like this. If you can do a ride or two with lots of climbing (~1000 m or so) that would help as well. One hundred kilometres is a long day, even for experienced riders. But it is totally doable with just a bit of training beforehand.
More will be added as I think of things. Email me at dirtbag.cycles1@gmail.com if you have any questions.