Full Moon Mixed Terrain Night Rides - 2025

• Location: Various starting locations throughout New England

• Ride Type: Mixed Terrain

• Time & Date: Departs Every Full Moon (or shifted by a day or two for ideal conditions), varying start times and locations

• Distance: ~15 miles, approximately 90-120 minutes of riding

• Price: Free, note NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us

Description: The Full Moon ride takes cyclists all over the trails and back roads of the town where we start.

These rides all have a certain peace and joviality associated with them. There’s no “fast” when night riding; this is the time to really enjoy the ride in a special way with others who come out for these rides.

The Full Moon Ride should NOT be your first Mixed Terrain Ride.

Mixed Terrain is rougher and more technical than gravel bike riding and involves navigating around and over some smaller rocks and roots, sometimes dismounting to clear a downed tree.

Most Full Moon rides are appropriate terrain for gravel bikes of 35mm tires or wider and hard-tail mountain bikes with at least this minimum tire size. Sometimes we’ll do a special edition due to the trail conditions that will necessitate a different tire size so always be sure to check back for each ride to get the details of the best bike for the terrain.

If you are uncertain of your skill level, please email us or attend a daylight mixed terrain ride to get comfortable on your bike on Mixed Terrain.

Full Moon Ride Calendar

Some of the Full Moon rides are shifted from the exact date of the full moon 1-2 days, typically to avoid weekends or days people are unlikely to be able to ride. Usually 1-2 days on either side of a Full Moon, the moon is big and bright and still very pleasing to ride under!

Full Moon Calendar: 2025

Date	Day	Moon Name	Departure Time	Location
11 February	Tuesday	Snow Moon	7:00 PM	Near Bedford, MA
12 March	Wednesday	Worm Moon	7:00 PM	Belmont Center
15 April	Tuesday	Pink Moon, Super Moon!	7:00 PM	TBD
15 May (date changed)	Thursday	Flower Moon	7:00 PM	Newton Center
11 June	Wednesday	Strawberry Moon	7:00pm	TBD
10 July	Thursday	Buck Moon	7:00 PM	TBD
9 August	Saturday	Sturgeon Moon	9:00 AM	Long daytime ride
9 September	Tuesday	Harvest Moon	7:00 PM	TBD
7 October	Tuesday	Hunter Moon	7:00 PM	TBD
5 November	Wednesday	Beaver Moon	7:00 PM	TBD
4 December	Thursday	Cold Moon	7:00 PM	TBD

Route

We will email the route to everyone who RSVPs by 7pm the evening before the ride. You’ll get the route emailed to you if you register by 4pm the day of the ride but please try not to wait too long to send in your RSVP since we work day jobs and may not have time to send you the route before the ride.

Please load the route in advance, it’s helpful for riders to know when turns are coming, they are numerous.

Pace and Skills Needed

Riders who can average 15mph on a 2+ hour road ride will have the fitness to allow them to enjoy this ride. The average pace of a mixed terrain night ride is usually 6-8mph depending on conditions and terrain. We err on the side of caution and regroup periodically.

As stated above, the Full Moon ride should not be your first mixed terrain ride experience.

Ride Notes

We have a designated Super Domestique leading the ride and pointing out turns. We don’t have a sweep rider for this ride so only participate if you’re confident in your skill level and fitness – or know your way back. When we have a larger group, we will split into two or more groups. Riders are exceptionally nice on this ride and make sure to not lose their co-riders.

This ride has a kindness vibe to it.

Last Minute Information

We send emails to those who have RSVP’d with anything critical that isn’t communicated on this page that is known to us before the ride start.

Estimated time

Typically 90 minutes to 2 hours. We make winter and snow rides shorter in distance (but not time) since they’re slower.

After the Ride

When we start at a local establishment, anyone who wants to hang out and enjoy food or drinks together are welcome to do that! Sometimes we prepare food/drink for riders post-ride, but we let you know when this is happening.

Contact Information

Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com, Phone - 413-461-7433

Riding Rules, What to Bring, How Our Rides are Different: 

All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules.

Waiver: A signed waiver is required prior to your first ride with NEER.

If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.

Proper Bike & Requirements for this ride:

• Bright front light - At least 500 lumens that will last for 2.5 hours.

• Rear light - A steady (not flashing) rear light that will last at least 2.5 hours. This light needs to NOT be BLINDING to other cyclists. Please stare into your rear light, if it hurts your eyes, it will be painful for the rider behind you.

• 35mm knobby tires minimum for most rides. Wider tires are nicer. Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. In the winter, we will require studded tires when we expect to see ice. Road bikes with 32mm tires or bigger all the way up to fat bikes are all invited and will have fun.

• Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. If you ride with platform pedals you’re likely to be over your head in some of the more technical parts of the ride. If you ride platform pedals and feel you have complete control of your bike because you have many hours of use with them, then they are acceptable.

• A bike that’s in safe working order and is free of creaking and squeaking. PLEASE LUBE YOUR CHAIN before the ride.

• Higher tire pressure: We recommend starting with higher tire pressure and be ready to let some out if your tires are inflated too much.

• First, we want to minimize flats on the ride; waiting for someone to change flats is not why we ride.  We typically see zero flats on our rides.  One of the primary reasons for this is due to higher than average tire pressure.

• We do not recommend fenders since sticks and twigs can get caught in them.

• When do we host the Full Moon ride? When it is:

  • Snowing: We ride; it is so much fun to ride during a snow storm.

  • Snow on the ground: We ride. It doesn’t matter if there’s 1 inch or four feet, we ride. We recommend (and may require) studded tires and/or fat bikes for these kinds of conditions. The only exclusion to snow riding is when there is a state of emergency and we’ve been asked to stay off the road.

  • Icy conditions: We ride. For this you have to have studded tires in order to ride with us.

  • Cold: It doesn’t matter what the temperature is, we ride. We’ve held the Full Moon ride at very, very below zero temps in the past and we still get a great turnout!

  • We DO NOT RIDE if the trails are wet and could possibly be damaged by riding, or we change the route/plan to be on beaches or on fire roads that are not sensitive trails if it’s easy to change the plan last-minute.

RSVPs are required so we know who is coming, RSVP here now!

Full Moon Mixed Terrain Night Rides

• Location: Various starting locations throughout New England

• Ride Type: Mixed Terrain

• Time & Date: Departs Every Full Moon (or shifted by a day or two), varying start times

• Distance: ~15 miles, approximately 90-120 minutes of riding

• Price: Free, note NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us

Description: The Full Moon ride takes cyclists all over the trails and back roads of the town where we start.

These rides all have a certain peace and joviality associated with them. There’s no “fast” when night riding; this is the time to really enjoy the ride in a special way with others who come out for these rides.

The Full Moon Ride should NOT be your first Mixed Terrain Ride.

Mixed Terrain is rougher and more technical than gravel bike riding and involves navigating around and over some smaller rocks and roots, sometimes dismounting to clear a downed tree.

Most Full Moon rides are appropriate terrain for gravel bikes of 35mm tires or wider and hard-tail mountain bikes with at least this minimum tire size. Sometimes we’ll do a special edition due to the trail conditions that will necessitate a different tire size so always be sure to check back for each ride to get the details of the best bike for the terrain.

If you are uncertain of your skill level, please email us or attend a daylight mixed terrain ride to get comfortable on your bike on Mixed Terrain.

Full Moon Ride Calendar

A few of the Full Moon rides are shifted from the exact date of the full moon, typically to avoid weekends or days people are unlikely to be able to ride.

Full Moon Calendar: 2024

Date	Day	Moon Name	Departure Time	Location
26 March	Tuesday	Worm Moon	7:00 PM	Rain cancelled
23 April	Tuesday	Pink Moon	7:00PM	Lexington (Revolution Hall)
23 May	Thursday	Flower Moon	7:00 PM	Newton Center
20 June	Thursday	Strawberry Moon	7:00pm	Summer break
21 July	Sunday	Buck Moon	Daytime ride	Summer break
20 August	Tuesday	Sturgeon Moon	7:00 PM	Lexington (Clark Middle School)
17 September	Tuesday	Corn Moon	7:00 PM	Lexington (Revolution Hall)
17 October	Thursday	Hunter Moon	7:00 PM	Lexington (Revolution Hall)
14 November	Thursday	Beaver Moon	7:00 PM	Waltham, MA
15 December	Sunday	Normal Moon - Daytime ride	9:00 AM	Sudbury, MA

Route

We will email the route to everyone who RSVPs by 7pm the evening before the ride. You’ll get the route emailed to you if you register by 4pm the day of the ride but please try not to wait too long to send in your RSVP since we work day jobs and may not have time to send you the route before the ride.

Please load the route in advance, it’s helpful for riders to know when turns are coming, they are numerous.

Pace and Skills Needed

Riders who can average 15mph on a 2+ hour road ride will have the fitness to allow them to enjoy this ride. The average pace of a mixed terrain night ride is usually 6-8mph depending on conditions and terrain. We err on the side of caution and regroup periodically.

As stated above, the Full Moon ride should not be your first mixed terrain ride.

Ride Notes

We have a designated Super Domestique leading the ride and pointing out turns. We don’t have a sweep rider for this ride so only participate if you’re confident in your skill level and fitness – or know your way back. When we have a larger group, we will split into two or more groups. Riders are exceptionally nice on this ride and make sure to not lose their co-riders.

This ride has a kindness vibe to it.

Last Minute Information

We send emails to those who have RSVP’d with anything critical that isn’t communicated on this page that is known to us before the ride start.

Estimated time

Typically 90 minutes to 2 hours. We make winter and snow rides shorter in distance (but not time) since they’re slower.

After the Ride

When we start at a local establishment, anyone who wants to hang out and enjoy food or drinks together are welcome to do that! Sometimes we prepare food/drink for riders post-ride, but we let you know when this is happening.

Contact Information

Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com, Phone - 413-461-7433

Riding Rules, What to Bring, How Our Rides are Different: 

All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules.

Waiver: A signed waiver is required prior to your first ride with NEER.

If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.

Proper Bike & Requirements for this ride:

• Bright front light - At least 500 lumens that will last for 2.5 hours.

• Rear light - A steady (not flashing) rear light that will last at least 2.5 hours. This light needs to NOT be BLINDING to other cyclists. Please stare into your rear light, if it hurts your eyes, it will be painful for the rider behind you.

• 35mm knobby tires minimum for most rides. Wider tires are nicer. Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. In the winter, we will require studded tires when we expect to see ice. Road bikes with 32mm tires or bigger all the way up to fat bikes are all invited and will have fun.

• Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. If you ride with platform pedals you’re likely to be over your head in some of the more technical parts of the ride. If you ride platform pedals and feel you have complete control of your bike because you have many hours of use with them, then they are acceptable.

• A bike that’s in safe working order and is free of creaking and squeaking. PLEASE LUBE YOUR CHAIN before the ride.

• Higher tire pressure: We recommend starting with higher tire pressure and be ready to let some out if your tires are inflated too much.

• First, we want to minimize flats on the ride; waiting for someone to change flats is not why we ride.  We typically see zero flats on our rides.  One of the primary reasons for this is due to higher than average tire pressure.

• We do not recommend fenders since sticks and twigs can get caught in them.

• When do we host the Full Moon ride? When it is:

  • Snowing: We ride; it is so much fun to ride during a snow storm.

  • Snow on the ground: We ride. It doesn’t matter if there’s 1 inch or four feet, we ride. We recommend (and may require) studded tires and/or fat bikes for these kinds of conditions. The only exclusion to snow riding is when there is a state of emergency and we’ve been asked to stay off the road.

  • Icy conditions: We ride. For this you have to have studded tires in order to ride with us.

  • Cold: It doesn’t matter what the temperature is, we ride. We’ve held the Full Moon ride at very, very below zero temps in the past and we still get a great turnout!

  • We DO NOT RIDE if the trails are wet and could possibly be damaged by riding, or we change the route/plan to be on beaches or on fire roads that are not sensitive trails if it’s easy to change the plan last-minute.

RSVPs are required so we know who is coming, RSVP here now!

Full Moon Mixed Terrain Night Rides

• Location: Various starting locations throughout New England

• Ride Type: Mixed Terrain

• Time & Date: Departs Every Full Moon, varying start times

• Distance: ~15 miles, approximately 90-120 minutes of riding

• Price: Free, note NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us

Description: The Full Moon ride takes cyclists all over the trails and back roads of the town where we start.

These rides all have a certain peace and joviality associated with them. There’s no “fast” when night riding; this is the time to really enjoy the ride in a special way with others who come out for these rides.

The Full Moon Ride should NOT be your first Mixed Terrain Ride. Mixed Terrain is rougher and more technical than gravel bike riding and involves navigating around and over some smaller rocks and roots, sometimes dismounting to clear a downed tree.

If you are uncertain of your skill level, please email us or attend a daylight mixed terrain ride to get comfortable on your bike on Mixed Terrain.

Full Moon Ride Calendar

A few of the Full Moon rides are shifted from the exact date of the full moon, typically to avoid weekends or days people are unlikely to be able to ride.

Date	Day	Moon Name	Departure Time	Location
8 December	Thursday	Cold Moon	6:30 PM	Weston, MA
6 January - No ride this month
6 February	Monday	Snow Moon	6:30 PM	Belmont, MA
7 March	Tuesday	Worm Moon	7:00 PM	Revere, MA
6 April	Thursday	Pink Moon	7:00PM	Weston, MA
4 May	Thursday	Flower Moon	7:00 PM	Jamaica Plain, MA
3 June	Saturday	Strawberry Moon	7:00pm	Weather canceled
3 July	Monday	Buck Moon	7:30 PM	Weather canceled
1 August	Tuesday	Sturgeon Moon	7:00 PM	Lexington
30 August	Wednesday	It's a Blue Moon!	7:00 PM	Weather canceled
28 September	Thursday	Harvest Moon	7:00 PM	Concord, MA
28 October	Saturday	Hunter Moon	---	Moving this to another day so we can fit in the special North Shore ride today
15 November	Wednesday	Not a Special Moon	7:00 PM	Waltham, MA
28 November	Tuesday	Beaver Moon	7:00 PM	Weston, MA
26 December	Tuesday	Cold Moon	Start time TBD, prob 4pm	TBD & this will be a special ride

Route

We will email the route to everyone who RSVPs by 7pm the evening before the ride. You’ll get the route emailed to you if you register by 4pm the day of the ride.

Please load the route in advance, it’s helpful for riders to know when turns are coming, they are numerous.

Pace

Riders who can average 16mph on a 2+ hour road ride will have the fitness to allow them to enjoy this ride. The average pace of a mixed terrain night ride is usually 6-8mph depending on conditions and terrain. We err on the side of caution and regroup periodically.

Ride Notes

We have a designated Super Domestique leading the ride and pointing out turns. We don’t have a sweep rider for this ride so only participate if you’re confident in your skill level and fitness – or know your way back. When we have a larger group, we will split into two or more groups.

Last Minute Information

Watch our Twitter feed for last-minute updates, weather cancellations or other changes. We send emails to those who have RSVP’d with anything critical that isn’t communicated on this page that is known to us within 8 hours of the ride start.

Estimated time

Typically 90 minutes to 2 hours. We make winter and snow rides shorter in distance (but not time) since they’re slower.

After the Ride

We’re serving hot cocoa after the ride to all who would like to share in some social time together.

Contact Information

Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com, Phone - 413-461-7433

Riding Rules, What to Bring, How Our Rides are Different: 

All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules.

Waiver: A signed waiver is required prior to your first ride with NEER.

If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.

Proper Bike & Requirements for this ride:

• Bright front light - At least 500 lumens that will last for 2.5 hours.

• Rear light - A steady (not flashing) rear light that will last at least 2.5 hours. This light needs to NOT be BLINDING to other cyclists. Please stare into your rear light, if it hurts your eyes, it will be painful for the rider behind you.

• 32c knobby tires minimum for most rides. Wider tires are nicer. Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. In the winter, we will require studded tires when we expect to see ice. Road bikes with 32mm tires or bigger all the way up to fat bikes are all invited and will have fun.

• Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. If you ride with platform pedals you’re likely to be over your head in some of the more technical parts of the ride. If you ride platform pedals and feel you have complete control of your bike because you have many hours of use with them, then they are acceptable.

• A bike that’s in safe working order and is free of creaking and squeaking. PLEASE LUBE YOUR CHAIN before the ride.

• Higher tire pressure: We recommend starting with higher tire pressure and be ready to let some out if your tires are inflated too much.

• First, we want to minimize flats on the ride; waiting for someone to change flats is not why we ride.  We typically see zero flats on our rides.  One of the primary reasons for this is due to higher than average tire pressure.

• We do not recommend fenders since sticks and twigs can get caught in them.

• When do we host the Full Moon ride? When it is:

  • Snowing: We ride; it is so much fun to ride during a snow storm.

  • Snow on the ground: We ride. It doesn’t matter if there’s 1 inch or four feet, we ride. We recommend (and may require) studded tires and/or fat bikes for these kinds of conditions. The only exclusion to snow riding is when there is a state of emergency and we’ve been asked to stay off the road.

  • Icy conditions: We ride. For this you have to have studded tires in order to ride with us.

  • Cold: It doesn’t matter what the temperature is, we ride. We’ve held the Full Moon ride at very, very below zero temps in the past and we still get a great turnout!

  • We DO NOT RIDE if the trails are wet and could possibly be damaged by riding, or we change the route/plan to be on beaches or on fire roads that are not sensitive trails if it’s easy to change the plan last-minute.

RSVPs are required so we know who is coming, RSVP here now!

Trail Mix 100 Middle Massachusetts 2021 Edition

Trail Mix 100 Middle Massachusetts 2021 Edition

Join us for incredibly beautiful cycling on the back roads of central Massachusetts! There are TWO distance options for you for this ride! Choose a 100-km route or 100-mile route to ride.

This ride is full of dirt roads, with nice paved roads as well. Most of the route is back roads, away from traffic and people. Keep reading to understand the logistics. This ride starts at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston, MA - so most people will need to drive to the start.

This is a group or solo ride, depending on how you want to ride it. You may get a group of your friends together, you may request to ride with others who are likely of your similar cycling pace and experience, or you’re welcome to ride it alone, though you’re hardly alone when there are so many people on the same route.

Ride with New People Option

Ride with people of your riding speed, but you don’t have to know anyone prior to the ride! This is an option for you if you’d like to ride with a group, but don’t have friends riding or simply want to meet new people who are of a similar strength.

We offered this option for the first time at the Rhode Island Trail Mix ride and it allowed many similar riders to find each other. Since it worked so well the last few times, we’re offering it again. Quite a few people selected to opt into a new group.

We’re riding on roads with very light traffic in an area you’re unlikely to be very familiar with. It’s wonderful riding, properly scenic, and probably not what you’d consider doing completely alone. This a way to ride in a new area that is fairly remote knowing there are other cyclists on the same route.

There is little to no cell coverage on many parts of the routes.

We are staffing a mid-ride food stop and serving a substantial meal post-ride. Enjoy a great ride, eat well throughout, and drink delicious, and famous, Ride Studio Iced Mochas!

We’re offering three fully-supported locations on the ride: one at the start, one mid-ride full of your favorite packaged bike foods, gummies, maple syrup packets, etc. and Iced Mochas, and a filling meal after the ride.

Note that 100 mile riders will see the mid-ride food stop twice during the ride. 100 km riders see the same mid-ride food stop once.

We accommodate all diets so just let us know what you require when you register and we’ll have something appropriate for you at both the mid-ride stop and end-of-ride meal.

In the past, we’ve brought huge salads, vegan chicken salad, bean salad, and more for vegans and gluten-free people. We do care that you get to eat as well as everyone that does not have a restricted diet post-ride.

Be absolutely certain you’re up for the rules of this ride. Read this page in its entirety, every single word.

Details

• Ride Type: Remote paved and dirt roads, some mix of surfaces, but almost entirely rideable with little/no technical skill.

• Time & Date: Sunday, September 19, 2021

  • Rollout times will be assigned between 7:00am and 9:30am

  • Longer riders are sent off first, shorter-distance riders are sent off a little later but still early

• Starting Point: Red Apple Farm - Phillipston, MA

• Distance: 100 mile or 100 km - you choose & all riders start with the same ~30 miles so if you want to switch from the 100 mile route to 100 km route, that is fine AS LONG AS YOU TELL A STAFF MEMBER!

What you get

• A gorgeous, well-planned route: Route file for your GPS computer, parking directions/instructions.

• Staffed starting location with water, portable toilets, friendly staff

• Staffed food stop with water, bike food, special extra tasty food, famous Ride Studio Iced Mochas

• Route Support - mechanic on route

• Peace of Mind knowing there are other riders on the same route

• Substantial lunch at the end of the ride of delicious, hearty food

Price

• 100 Mile Route

  • $85 if you’re registered by September 12, 11:59 pm

  • $105 if you register after September 12

  • Registration closes at 11:59pm on Friday, September 17

  • NO day-of registrations

• 100 Kilometer Route

  • $65 if you’re registered by September 12, 11:59 pm

  • $95 if you register after September 12

  • Registration closes at 11:59pm on Friday, September 17

  • NO day-of registrations

Refund Policy

• The earlier you register, the more generous our refund policy. Logistics for the ride are not trivial and changes/cancellations cost us valuable time. We also greatly appreciate everyone who registers early!

• If you register > 9 days in advance of the ride, and cancel more than 2 days before the ride starts, you’ll get credit for all but $20 applied to a future ride that we host.

• If you register > 5 days in advance of the ride, and cancel more than 2 days before the ride starts, you’ll get credit for all but $30 applied to a future ride we host.

• All other cancellations > 2 days in advance of the ride: You’ll get a $20 credit toward one of our future events that we host.

• Cancellations within 2 days of the ride cannot be refunded or credited since food is already purchased and we’ve made financial commitments with the expectations that you’ll be joining us.

• BikeReg.com offers cancellation insurance which we recommend purchasing.

• If you need any alterations to your registration of any sort, please email us as early as possible: trailmix@rideheadquarters.com

Start Location

Phillipston, Massachusetts. Exact details and location information are emailed to registered riders by 12pm the day before the ride.

Estimated drive times:

• About 60-80 minutes from most parts of the greater Boston area

Route Information

This is a new route! Like all of our previous routes, it’s adventure-filled, but also very appropriate for gravel bikes. You’ll ride plenty of dirt roads, trails, and what’s pavement will be on the quiet roads.

Expect elevation in the 75 ft. per mile range.

Pace Options - It’s a Ride for Most Everyone to Enjoy!

When you register for this ride, we ask you for your best estimate of your average pace when you ride a 30-mile all-paved ride. We don’t expect you will know what your pace will be on this route, we’re just interested in knowing approximately where each person will be after starting out.

You’ll see the selection of average speeds on the Registration form. From 10mph - 20mph+. If you choose to ride faster than this on the day of the ride, that is alright. We are staffing the food stop assuming a 10 mph minimum pace.

Be sure you’ve got the route and at least one back-up power source to charge your GPS unit and phone during the day. Do not plan on having cell service since there are quite a few portions of the ride with weak to no service.

COVID Protocol:

We ask that all riders adhere to state guidelines (in this case it’s MA and NH) where it comes to mask wearing and proper social distancing. We will include these in the email we send to all participants just prior to the ride since guidance is continually changing. Basically, masks are not mandatory since we’re outside the whole time.

Please simply be respectful of others since everyone has a different level of nervousness where it comes to COVID worry.

If we think you’re being unsafe, you will be asked to leave the ride. You will not be invited to return to any group rides as well. This applies for all aspects of cycling and general behavior.

Additional Guidelines and Rules:

• If you’re not signed up to ride with someone(s), you may not ride with that person(s) during the ride. If you want to find new people to ride with, please register in that category.

• Everyone must bring a mask that covers your nose and mouth completely for use when it’s appropriate to mask up. As stated, a mask is unlikely to be necessary, but bring one in case you need to enter a business that requires it or are in another situation where it’s good to have.

• We’ll be giving everyone specific starting times, please adhere to these. This allows for proper ride organization and smooth coordination at the start, mid-ride, and at the post-ride meal. We spend a lot of time figuring out starting positions to allow for the best flow of the day.

• We’ll provide you with a very tasty, hearty meal to eat afterward. Bring a lawn chair, this will make the after-ride socialization much more relaxing and fun.

• There is no ride leader, even if you ride with a group; you’ll be following your GPS computer, therefore owning a GPS computer is a must with at least one back-up power source.

• Don’t risk fast descents or not eat enough causing you to bonk. Drink plenty of water considering how hot it may be! This is common sense for any ride, especially smart when you’re riding further away from people who can give you a ride home.

• We will not shuttle riders anywhere, it’s your responsibility to have a plan in case your bike or legs stop working.

• We’ll send a very detailed email by 12pm the day before the ride, with the route, instructions, and details so you understand logistics and exactly what to do.

---

Preparation

What to bring, we recommend:

Everything necessary for common mechanicals. Items include:

• 2 x tubes

• Hand pump

• Co2 cartridges & Co2 inflator

• Tire levers

• Boot/dollar bill if your tire gets ripped

• Patch kit

• 1 pair of quick links compatible for your chain

• Chain pliers

• Chain breaker

• Multi-tool (if your chain breaker is on your multi-tool, even better)

• If your bike uses a replaceable derailleur hanger, be sure to have an extra that is compatible with your bike

• Rain jacket - this works well for chilly descents too

• 2 x 26 oz water bottles

• Food/nutrition in case you need a zap of energy before the food stop

Read this article about social distance riding preparation written by Ride Headquarters for more help in packing for the day. Even though we’re no longer needing to officially social distance, it’s really nice to be prepared to take care of yourself or a riding friend if the situation arises.

If there’s anything you need, we can sell you whatever it is remotely assuming we have it at the store, and we will bring whatever it is to you in a clean bag, only handled with disinfected hands. Email us with anything you would like to have.

Proper Bike for this Ride

• 35mm-40mm tires are best suited for the ride. Err on the side of bigger, especially if you’re newer to gravel riding. Feel free to use bigger tires. Your gravel bike is the most appropriate bike for the ride. Mountain bikes and flat-bar bikes are welcome. Narrower than 28mm are strongly discouraged. There is some loose gravel on the roads. Narrower tires are more likely to pinch flat and are less stable than 28mm or bigger. We welcome mountain bikes, fat bikes, and any bike that you feel comfortable completing the distance on in the time frame allotted for the ride.

• Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control.

• A bike that’s in safe working order. Make very certain your bike comes clean, lubed, safety checked with fresh brake pads, and tires in good shape. If it's wet on the road or raining, please put a rear fender on your bike to keep you from getting wet. If you’ll be riding with others and it’ll be wet, please be nice to your co-riders and use full-coverage fenders.

Weather: We will ride rain or shine. Dangerous weather (like an electrical storm) cancels the ride or postpones the start time.

Last Minute Information: We will email everyone who registers with the latest information and details concerning parking, timing, route, etc. by 12pm the day before the ride.

Unregistered riders or riders who haven’t signed the waiver may not participate.

Waiver: Ride Headquarters requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.

Contact Information: Email connect@rideheadquarters.com with questions. We will email you the cell phone number of the contact person who will be present at the beginning of the ride and available during the ride.

Riding Rules, What to Bring, How Our Rides are Different: All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. Note: ALL rules stated here on this page override any conflicting rules you see on our typical ride rules.

RHQ - Saturday Morning Mixed Terrain

• Location: Revolution Hall near Bedford, MA (right off the Minuteman bike path)

• Ride Type:  Mixed Terrain Ride

• Date & Time:  Saturday, September 4, 2021, rolling at 9:00 am

• Distance:  25 miles

• Price:  Free

• RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form

Details:  The Saturday morning mixed-terrain ride takes cyclists all over Bedford, Concord, and beyond. The ride takes paved roads to trails, dirt roads, grassy areas, and other places off the beaten path.

The ride departs at 9:00 am with various speed groups; we ride based on time rather than distance. We have a designated RSC Super Domestique leading the last group to depart which will be rolling at a moderate pace. If you have ridden mixed terrain before and can average 16mph on a paved road ride, you should be fine with the pace of this ride. We typically have at least two groups - one spicier and peppier ahead of the Super Domestique led group.

We don’t have a sweep rider for this ride so only participate if you’re confident in your skill level and fitness.

Parking: Please park across the street from Revolution Hall. Use this address for GPS navigation to the ride start and for the parking lot:

10 Maguire Rd, Lexington, MA 02421

Route:  The route is emailed to all by 8pm the evening before the ride. The weather and trail conditions dictate the route. We do not ride on soft trails ever; we have rain trail-friendly routes prepared. 

Estimated time: ~3.5 hours

Ride Notes:  We discuss these with you prior to rollout. Note that a mixed terrain ride is a little rougher than a “gravel” ride. You’ll be riding over some roots and rocks, though nothing in this ride can be considered technical in nature.

Last Minute Information: Watch Ride Headquarters’ Twitter feed for last-minute updates, weather cancellations or other changes. We email all participants with any critical late-breaking news.

Contact Information:  Email - connect@rideheadquaters.com, Phone which reaches the ride leader before and during the ride: 413-461-7433

Riding Rules, What to Bring, How Our Rides are Different:  All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. 

Waiver:  Ride Headquarters requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.

How do we decide if we’re having the mixed-terrain ride?

• Thunder storms:  If there’s a 33% or greater chance of a thunder storm at 9:30 am, we don’t ride.  It is not safe to get caught out in a thunder storm.

• Rain or sleet:  There are a few variants of this.  We don’t ride sensitive trails when they’re wet; this can cause damage that’s not repairable.  Fortunately, we have some rain friendly routes that don’t damage sensitive trails.

  • If it’s raining at the ride start time we cancel the ride.  If it’s only threatening to rain, we ride.

  • If it’s misting or drizzling, with less than 50% chance of rain in the coming hour, we ride.

  • If it’s been raining a lot for a couple days, but not raining in the morning, we ride.  Our rain friendly routes avoid sensitive trails.  Of course, every few years there’s such a bad storm that we won’t ride; we take the force majeure very seriously.

• Snowing:  We ride;  it is so much fun to ride during a snow storm.

• Snow on the ground:  We ride.  It doesn’t matter if there’s 1 inch or four feet, we ride.  We recommend studded tires or fat bikes for these kinds of conditions.  The only exclusion to snow riding is when there is a state of emergency and we’ve been asked to stay off the road.

• Icy conditions:  We ride.  For this you have to have studded tires in order to ride with us.

• Cold:  It doesn’t matter what the temperature is, we ride.  The coldest Sunday ride started at 5 degrees.  It was a blast!

The proper bike for this ride includes the following:

• 32c knobby tires minimum.  Wider tires are nice, too. Tire choice depends on your riding skill set.

• Clipless pedals and shoes.  These are important elements of bike control.  If you ride with platform pedals you’re likely to be over your head in some of the more technical parts of the ride. Note that mountain-style pedals/cleats are significantly better than road-style. We strongly discourage road pedals/cleats on a mixed terrain ride. You can possibly get away with road pedals/cleats on a gravel (dirt road) ride, but not a mixed terrain ride.

• A bike that’s in safe working order that is properly lubed and tuned. We’ll ask you to call for a ride or take an Uber home if you have a mechanical situation that will hinder the forward progress of the group by more than a few minutes.

• Higher tire pressure than you’d ride on a cyclocross ride.  We recommend about 80% to 90% of maximum rated tire pressure, for two reasons:

  • First, we want to minimize flats on the ride; waiting for someone to change flats is not why we ride.  We typically see zero flats on our ride.  One of the primary reasons for this is due to higher than average tire pressure.

  • Second, on average, about 50% of the ride is on pavement; having slightly higher pressure makes the road sections go by faster.

 

Saturday Horizon Chasers 2021

Description:  The Horizon Chasers is a longer road ride.  The average pace is 17.5 mph depending on the time of year and the weather. The ride has multiple groups that will vary in pace higher and lower than the base average, depending on who is showing up and numbers of riders. We're riding for endurance, not speed.  We ride steady.

We have an official leader generally found in the last group to go out. If you choose too fast of a group to start, just stay on the route and the group(s) who have left after you will pick you up.

Photo by Marty M.

• Ride Type: Road Ride

• Location: Various starting locations, usually near to Lincoln, MA

  • Starting location for Saturday, September 11 is Twisted Tree Cafe in Lincoln, MA

• Dates:

  • Saturday, September 11, 9am rollout

  • Will be adding more throughout the fall

• Distance: 50-60 Miles; varies with the season and weather, routes vary

• Price: Free

• RSVP: Required, see below simple form

Proper Bike for this ride:  23-28c road slick tires, clipless pedals, drop handlebars; no aero bars. 

Route: The route varies for this ride to take people to various cool places! Some of the road surfaces are badly broken, pay attention. There is a ~1 mile dirt road included. It’s doable on 25mm tires, you just have to ride a little slower through this section.

Route - We will email all who RSVP with a new route. The mid-ride stop is at Tangerini’s for refilling water and if you need calories, they have those too! Bring cash if you’d want to buy anything.

Riders are expected to have the route loaded on a GPS device.

Starting Location: If you’re wondering how to ride to the start when the route begins at Twisted Tree, here’s a route suggestion from Alewife station to Twisted Tree in Lincoln. There are many other ways to access Lincoln as well.

Estimated time:  About 3-4 hours depending on the time or year and the weather.

Last Minute Information:  We will email those who RSVP letting you know anything important.

Contact Information:  Email - connect@rideheadquarters.com, Phone - 413-461-7433

Riding Rules, What to Bring, How Our Rides are Different:  All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. 

Waiver:  Ride Headquarters requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride of each year.

RSVP Now Here

RSVPs are required to attend each Horizon Chaser ride.

Full Moon Over Sherborn 2021

• Location: Ride Headquarters in Sherborn, MA

• Ride Type: Mixed Terrain

• Time & Date: Departs Every Full Moon, varying start times

• Distance: ~15 miles, approximately 90 minutes of riding

• Price: Free

Description: The Full Moon ride takes cyclists all over the trails of Sherborn and beyond. The route includes paved roads to trails, dirt roads, grassy areas, and other places off the beaten path.

Even though COVID is quickly becoming a thing of the past, we still have a few protocols in place for safety.

• RSVPs are required, fill out the RSVP form below the calendar!

• We are not requiring masks in store or outside for vaccinated people. We are trusting you at your word as to whether or not you’re vaccinated. Please give masked people their space so all feel comfortable.

Here are the next few Full Moon rides we’re looking forward to hosting:

Date	Day	Moon Name	Departure Time
24 June	Thursday	Strawberry Moon	7:30 PM
22 July	Thursday	Almost Full Moon	7:30 PM
24 August	Tuesday	Not a full moon, but a great night ride!	7:30 PM

RSVPs are required so we know who is coming, RSVP here now!

Get on our Night Riding Email List!

Do you love night rides, specifically? We have an email list and if you're on it, you'll receive invites to all of our night rides and events when they come on our calendar. Sign up to be on this list!

Route: The route is available to attendees the evening of the ride at Ride Headquarters.
We will email the route to everyone who RSVPs by around 5pm the day of the ride so that we don’t need to touch GPS computers to load them in the store.

The route is not necessary, we all ride together, no one gets dropped.

We change the route to meet the weather requirements so that the ride isn’t longer than 90 minutes.

Ride Notes: We have a designated Ride Headquarters Super Domestique leading the ride and pointing out turns. We don’t have a sweep rider for this ride so only participate if you’re confident in your skill level and fitness – or know your way back. 

Last Minute Information: Watch our Twitter feed for last-minute updates, weather cancellations or other changes. 

Estimated time: ~1.5-2 hours and 13-15 miles total. Distance varies based on conditions.

Contact Information: Email - connect@rideheadquarters.com, Phone - 413-461-7433

Riding Rules, What to Bring, How Our Rides are Different: All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules.

Waiver: Ride Headquarters requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride. 

Proper Bike for this ride:  

• 32c knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nice, too. Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. In the winter, we will require studded tires when we expect to see ice.

• Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. If you ride with platform pedals you’re likely to be over your head in some of the more technical parts of the ride.

• A bike that’s in safe working order. We don’t stop for preventable mechanical issues.

• Higher tire pressure than you’d ride on a cyclocross ride. We recommend about 80% to 90% of maximum rated tire pressure, for two reasons:

• First, we want to minimize flats on the ride; waiting for someone to change flats is not why we ride.  We typically see zero flats on our ride.  One of the primary reasons for this is due to higher than average tire pressure.

• Second, on average, about 30% of the ride is on pavement; having slightly higher pressure makes the road sections go by faster.

• We do not recommend fenders since sticks and twigs can get caught in them.

• How do we decide if we’re having the Full Moon ride?

• Thunderstorms: If there’s a 33% or greater chance of a thunderstorm at the ride start time, we don’t ride. It is not safe to get caught out in a thunderstorm.

• Rain or sleet: There are a few variants of this. We don’t ride sensitive trails when they’re wet; this can cause damage that’s not repairable. Fortunately, we have some rain-friendly routes that don’t damage sensitive trails.

  • If it’s raining at the start of the ride we probably cancel the ride. If it’s only threatening rain, we ride.

  • If it’s misting or drizzling at the start of the ride, with less than 50% chance of rain in the coming hour, we ride.

  • If it’s been raining a lot for a couple days, but not raining the night before, we ride. Our rain-friendly routes avoid sensitive trails. Of course, every few years there’s such a bad storm that we won’t ride; we take the force majeure very seriously.

• Snowing: We ride; it is so much fun to ride during a snow storm.

• Snow on the ground: We ride. It doesn’t matter if there’s 1 inch or four feet, we ride. We recommend studded tires or fat bikes for these kinds of conditions. The only exclusion to snow riding is when there is a state of emergency and we’ve been asked to stay off the road.

• Icy conditions: We ride. For this you have to have studded tires in order to ride with us.

• Cold: It doesn’t matter what the temperature is, we ride.

If you'd like us to do any work on your bike prior to the ride, please email us the day before so we're ready to do the work as soon as you come in; we want you to be ready to roll before the ride starts.

Social Distance Trail Mix 200 Gravel Challenge

The October Gravel Challenge is brought to you by the creators of Formidable Terra, the Maneha 250, Honey 100 and countless other very special innovative rides including our entire Social Distance Gravel Series.

Watch the full trailer! Here are a lot of scenes to look forwad to on the Trail Mix:


Distance options of 200 miles, 150 miles, 100 miles, and 100 kms are available for riders who are interested in a slightly less intense day!

October 14 Important Ride Updates:

• We just added a 150 mile route option for the Trail Mix 200! You may upgrade to this option from the 100 mile if you’ve already registered.

• Post-Ride Massages, Normatech Boots, Facial Stretch Therapy, and Consultation with a Physical Therapist, Chiropractor and More!!!

  We are excited to announce that from 12:30-6:00pm, Wellness in Motion Boston - Concord (WIMB) is at Red Apple Farm at the end of the ride offering riders complementary blocks of time with your choice of: leg-soothing Normatech boots, massage therapists, a fascial stretch therapist, and consultation with Dr. Nick Weigel, a physical therapist, avid cyclist, and member of the Pedal Power Team.

WIMB is a multidisciplinary clinic with one focus: helping their patients return to the activities that help them live a full and healthy life. We are excited to have them at the end of the ride. Be sure that if you want treatment from them, to start your ride early enough to be done before they leave at 6pm.

BONUS for all 200 Mile Route riders who complete the 200 miles: Wellness in Motion is gifting you a free 30-minute massage at their clinic as a way to say “congratulations” and few 200 mile riders will be done before 6pm, so this assures you will get taken care of also!

Details of the Trail Mix Event:

• Ride a challenging, gorgeous route presenting remote paved, broken, and dirt roads for your cycling delight and fulfillment.

• This ride is part of the Challenge Ride Series.

• Time & Date: Saturday, October 24, 2020. (Rain Date: Sunday, October 25).

• Ride start times are detailed via email to registrants. The first rider for the 200 mile ride rolls out at 12am, the first rider for the 150 mile rolls out at 4am, the first riders for the 100 mile and 100 km routes depart at 7am and the last riders out departs at 9am.

• This is being run social-distance style. Keep reading for further details.

• Starting Point: A 60-70 minute drive from Boston at Red Apple Farm in Phillipston

• Distance options: 200 miles, 150 miles**, 100 miles, 100 km

• Elevation gain for each route: approximately 75 feet per mile.

• Dirt vs pavement: Expect plenty of each.

• Price: $65, $85, $115, and $145, respectively - Register on Bike Reg
  

** The 150 mile option was just added, so this is news!

Read what others think about our Social Distance Gravel ride series. We have had cyclists of all abilities, all ages, and all levels of gravel experience come out to these rides. The common denominator is that each person has been respectful of social distancing rules and each is out for a really fun day on the bike!

What you get

• Satisfaction getting to ride a new route that is challenging, long, and you can ride as hard as you like.

• You receive a well-vetted route file for your GPS computer, parking directions/instructions.

• Staffed starting location with water, light food, clean portable toilets. Your pre-ride email will offer details of the locations of everything.

• Staffed food stop(s) with water, bike food, Ride Studio Cafe iced drinks half-way through the ride

• Support car with mechanic inside - since riders will be further out from the start and easy cut-backs aren’t as readily available.

• Food/water stops - some we support, others you buy your own food, we’ll tell you more about each:

  • 200 mile route = 3 stops

  • 150 mile route = 2-3 stops

  • 100 mile route = 2 stops

  • 100 km route = 1 stop

• Peace of mind knowing there are other riders on the same route as you

• Substantial lunch at the end of the ride.

• Special for 200 Mile Route Finishers: You get a very special miniature hand-built statue just for you, to commemorate the day!

Start Location

Central Massachusetts. Red Apple Farm in Phillipston, MA. This is a great farm with many animals, a lot of space so easy to social distance, and an outdoor BBQ and brewery to enjoy post-ride.

Estimated drive times:

• A 60-70-minute drive from Lexington or Sherborn

Route Information

200 Mile Route

• Elevation gain: in excess of 16,000 ft

• Miles of dirt:  Many. We’ll update this once we finalize the route. The paved roads are lovely and there is very little traffic.

• There may be a way to cut the route shorter, but don’t depend on this option.

• Food and water stops provided during the day

150 Mile Route

• Elevation gain: in excess of 12,000 ft

• Miles of dirt:  Many. We’ll update this once we finalize the route. The paved roads are lovely and there is very little traffic.

• Food and water stops provided during the day

100 Mile Route

• Elevation gain: approximately 7,500-8,500 ft

• Miles of dirt:  Many. We’ll update this once we finalize the route. The paved roads are lovely and there is very little traffic.

• Food and water stops provided during the day

• There may not be a way to cut this short, so be ready for the distance!

100 Kilometer Route

• Elevation gain: approximately 4,500 ft

• Miles of dirt:  Many. We’ll update this once we finalize the route. The paved roads are lovely and there is very little traffic.

• 1 food/water stop is provided during the day

• You have all day to do this ride. We DO NOT have a minimum required speed if you take on this option - the last rider needs to be in by 8pm. Take your time, enjoy the ride!

Pacing for the 200 mile ride

It is important that you feel confident you can average at least 10mph over the course of the day. We can only assure you that we can support via food/water stops and mechanic support if you keep this average, which includes time spent at rest stops.

Aside from meeting the minimum speed requirement, you’re welcome to ride at your own pace, as you feel comfortable safely ticking down the miles.

A 200 mile gravel ride will take you 20 hours with very quick rest stops and a 11 mph pace. Your pace will be at least 30% slower than your road riding pace.

We are staffing the food stop assuming a 10 mph minimum pace. BE ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN YOU ARE UP FOR THE DISTANCE. If you can’t make it to the end, have a way of getting home via a friend or family member. We can’t drive anyone anywhere due to COVID concerns. Be aware that you might not be in cell phone range during significant portions of the ride. If you are out of cell range, try to send a txt, sometimes these get through when voice calls are not possible. Walk in the direction of the route until cell signal is stronger.

Pacing for the 150 mile ride

Maintaining a 10mph pace is difficult, and this is the pace we recommend you be up for if you take on this distance. There are various start time options, we recommend starting earlier than you think you need to start so you have the time you need during the day.

For perspective, we had a few exceptionally fast riders at the Trail Mix 100. The fastest rider rode a 14mph rolling average. After stops are averaged in, a 9-10 mph average is not trivial.

Plan your pace and day knowing you need to be done by 8pm.

Pacing for the 100 mile ride

If you haven’t ridden one of our gravel rides before, and are new to gravel cycling, we recommend starting with the 100km route. A 100 mile gravel ride is much longer and harder than a road century ride. Maintaining a 10mph pace is difficult, and this is the pace we recommend you be up for if you take on this distance.

For perspective, we had a few exceptionally fast riders at the Trail Mix 100. The fastest rider rode a 14mph rolling average. After stops are averaged in, a 9-10 mph average is not trivial.

Plan your pace and day knowing you need to be done by 8pm.

Pacing for the 100 kilometer ride

You have all day to complete the 100 kilometer ride if you want to take the day. Feel free to keep a relaxed pace and enjoy being out there. This is the right time to jump into the ride series if you’ve been concerned about your pace.

We suggest an earlier start time if you intend to have a more relaxed pace, just to come in around when others are, for the comfort this offers. No one will rush you; the last riders will be coming in at 8pm (for the 200-mile ride) so there’s really nothing to rush you back!

Social Distance & Riding Rules

• Everyone who chooses to participate in this ride must be comfortable with the protocols surrounding social distancing for the entire day. These are described in detail here.

• This is NOT a group ride. We ask that you ride with one or two other people with whom you social distance. If you have extenuating circumstances, please email us (connect@rideheadquarters.com).

• All of our Riding Rules apply in addition to the social distance protocols. Read and digest them before the ride. All riders are expected to abide by these throughout the ride. All rules stated here on this page or in our social distance protocol override any conflicting rules stated in our ride rule page.

Preparation

• Read and reference this page for our recommendations. Take this advice seriously, and start packing for the ride at least a week in advance so you have time to get anything you’re missing.

• We will share the route with you 24 hours in advance of your ride start. Be sure to have this loaded on a GPS computer. A GPS computer/navigation device that you know how to use is required for a good day on the bike.

• Be sure to bring anything else you might need taking into account the weather, your personal circumstances, your health, etc. 

• You will want to come prepared with extra food, water, and fitness for the distance. Don’t take this lightly. If you’re riding the 100 or 200-mile distances, you may need a CamelBak filled with water to get through this ride.

• Lights with at least 8 hours of battery capacity are required for the 200-mile riders.

• Waiver: Ride Headquarters requires a signed waiver before your first ride of every calendar year. Please fill it out online now if you haven’t done it yet in 2020.

  Unregistered riders or riders who haven’t signed the waiver may not participate.

Proper Bike for this Ride

• A road or gravel bike that has 32mm-50mm tires. The size tire you feel is most appropriate is directly related to the size tire you’re used to riding, your ability to choose the right line, and manage your weight on the bike as you ride through sandy and looser sections. Feel free to use bigger tires. Narrower than 32mm are discouraged as they are less stable and easier to flat than wider tires. There is some loose gravel on the roads, and some sandy spots, expect to see everything, but nothing that is very technical in nature. Walk anything you don’t feel comfortable riding, but there shouldn’t be much/anything that has to be walked.

• Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. Mountain bike pedals/shoes are appropriate; road pedals/shoes should not be used.

• A bike that’s in safe working order. Make very certain your bike comes clean, lubed, safety checked with fresh brake pads, and tires in good shape. A bike that makes any unusual noises - from a squeaky chain to any kind of other noise should not be ridden prior to being evaluated and fixed by a professional mechanic.

Weather Considerations

We will make last-minute route changes based on weather as necessary. All attendees will receive updates via email. We are playing it safe and erring on the side of caution. This ride will run on October 24 and the rain date is October 25. Weather Protocol is described here.

Contact Information and How to Get Your Questions Answered

Email connect@rideheadquarters.com with any questions. Call 413-461-7433 the day of the ride to speak with the organizer on route. Please contact us via email prior to the day of the ride for all matters otherwise.

Social Distance Gravel Trail Mix 150 Edition

The 150-Mile Trail Mix Gravel Challenge is brought to you by the creators of Formidable Terra, the Maneha 250, Honey 100 and countless other very special innovative rides including our entire Social Distance Gravel Series.

Distance options of 150 miles, 100 miles, and 100 kms are available for riders who are interested in a slightly less intense day!

Details:

• Ride a challenging, gorgeous route presenting remote paved, broken, and dirt roads for your cycling delight and fulfillment.

• This ride is part of the Challenge Ride Series.

• Time & Date: Saturday, September 12, 2020. (Rain Date: September 13).

• Ride start times are detailed via email to registrants. The first rider for the 150 mile ride rolls out at 5am, the first riders for the 100 mile and 100 km routes depart at 7am and the last riders out departs at 9am.

• Starting Point: Nearish to Baldwinville, Massachusetts - exact location will be announced closer to the date of the event

• Distance options: 150 miles, 100 miles, 100 km

• Elevation gain for each route: approximately 75 feet per mile.

• Dirt vs pavement: We’ll let you know! Expect plenty of each.

• Price: $65, $75 and $95, respectively - Register on Bike Reg
  

Read what others think about our Social Distance Gravel ride series. We have had cyclists of all abilities, all ages, and all levels of gravel experience come out to these rides. The common denominator is that each person has been respectful of social distancing rules and each is out for a really fun day on the bike!

What you get

• Satisfaction getting to ride a new route that is challenging, long, and you can ride as hard as you like.

• You receive a well-vetted route file for your GPS computer, parking directions/instructions.

• Staffed starting location with water, light food, clean portable toilets. Your pre-ride email will offer details of the locations of everything.

• Staffed food stop with water, bike food, Ride Studio Cafe Iced Mochas half-way through the ride.

• Support car with mechanic inside - this is new for this ride since riders will be further out from the start and easy cut-backs (like in the Mid Mass edition) aren’t as readily available.

• Food/water stops:

  • 150 mile route = 3 stops, approximately 35 - 45 miles in between each

  • 100 mile route = 2 stops, approximately 30 - 40 miles in between each

  • 100 km route = 1 stop, approximately 35-40 miles into the ride

• Peace of mind knowing there are other riders on the same route as you; you will not be the last rider on the route.

• Substantial lunch at the end of the ride of delicious, hearty food prepared and packaged in advance.

• Special for 150 Mile Route Finishers: You get a very special momento hand-built just for you, to commemorate the day!

Start Location

Nearish to Baldwinville, MA. Exact location will be posted closer to the ride date.

Estimated drive times:

• A 60-minute drive from Lexington or Sherborn

Route Information

150 Mile Route

• Elevation gain: In excess of 11,000 feet

• Miles of dirt:  Many. We’ll update this once we finalize the route. The paved roads are lovely and there is very little traffic.

• There may be a way to cut the route shorter, but don’t depend on this option.

• 3 food and water stops provided during the day

100 Mile Route

• Elevation gain: approximately 7,500 ft

• Miles of dirt:  Many. We’ll update this once we finalize the route. The paved roads are lovely and there is very little traffic.

• 2 food and water stops provided during the day

• There may not be a way to cut this short, so be ready for the distance!

100 Kilometer Route

• Elevation gain: approximately 4,500 ft

• Miles of dirt:  Many. We’ll update this once we finalize the route. The paved roads are lovely and there is very little traffic.

• 1 food/water stop is provided during the day

• You have all day to do this ride. We DO NOT have a minimum required speed if you take on this option - the last rider needs to be in by 8pm. Take your time, enjoy the ride!

Pacing for the 150 mile ride and 100 mile ride

It is important that you feel confident you can average at least 10mph over the course of the day. We can only assure you that the sweep will be behind you if you keep this average, which includes time spent at rest stops.

Aside from meeting the minimum speed requirement, you’re welcome to ride at your own pace, as you feel comfortable safely ticking down the miles.

A 100 mile gravel ride will take you hours longer than a 100 mile road ride. Your pace will be at least 20% slower than your road riding pace.

We are staffing the food stop assuming a 10 mph minimum pace. BE ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN YOU ARE UP FOR THE DISTANCE. If you can’t make it to the end, have a way of getting home via a friend or family member. We can’t drive anyone anywhere due to COVID concerns. Be aware that you might not be in cell phone range during significant portions of the ride. There is a sweep rider who can help with many mechanicals, but this rider may be miles behind you depending on your start time.

Pacing for the 100 kilometer ride

You have all day to complete the 100 kilometer ride if you want to take the day. Feel free to keep a relaxed pace and enjoy being out there. This is the right time to jump into the ride series if you’ve been concerned about your pace.

We suggest an earlier start time if you intend to have a more relaxed pace, just to come in around when others are, for the comfort this offers. No one will rush you; the last riders will be coming in at 8pm (for the 150-mile ride) so there’s really nothing to rush you back!

Social Distance & Riding Rules

• Everyone who chooses to participate in this ride must be comfortable with the protocols surrounding social distancing for the entire day. These are described in detail here.

• All of our Riding Rules apply in addition to the social distance protocols. Read and digest them before the ride. All riders are expected to abide by these throughout the ride. All rules stated here on this page or in our social distance protocol override any conflicting rules stated in our ride rule page.

Preparation

• Read and reference this page for our recommendations. Take this advice seriously, and start packing for the ride a few days in advance so you have time to get anything you’re missing.

• Be sure to bring anything else you might need taking into account the weather, your personal circumstances, your health, etc. 

• You will want to come prepared with extra food, water, and fitness for the distance. Don’t take this lightly. If you’re riding the 100 or 150 mile distances, you may need a CamelBak filled with water to get through this ride.

• Waiver: Ride Headquarters requires a signed waiver before your first ride of every calendar year. Please fill it out online now if you haven’t done it yet in 2020.

  Unregistered riders or riders who haven’t signed the waiver may not participate.

Proper Bike for this Ride

• A road or gravel bike that has 32mm-50mm tires. The size tire you feel is most appropriate is directly related to the size tire you’re used to riding, your ability to choose the right line, and manage your weight on the bike as you ride through sandy and looser sections. Feel free to use bigger tires. Narrower than 32mm are discouraged as they are less stable and easier to flat than wider tires. There is some loose gravel on the roads, and some sandy spots, expect to see everything, but nothing that is very technical in nature. Walk anything you don’t feel comfortable riding, but there shouldn’t be much/anything that has to be walked.

• Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. Mountain bike pedals/shoes are appropriate; road pedals/shoes should not be used.

• A bike that’s in safe working order. Make very certain your bike comes clean, lubed, safety checked with fresh brake pads, and tires in good shape. A bike that makes any unusual noises - from a squeaky chain to any kind of other noise should not be ridden prior to being evaluated and fixed by a professional mechanic.

Weather Considerations

We will make last-minute route changes based on weather as necessary. All attendees will receive updates via email. We are playing it safe and erring on the side of caution. This ride will run on August 15 and the rain date is August 16. Weather Protocol is described here.

Contact Information and How to Get Your Questions Answered

Email connect@rideheadquarters.com with any questions. Call 413-461-7433 the day of the ride to speak with the organizer on route. Please contact us via email prior to the day of the ride for all matters otherwise.