Brutiful Mixed Terrain Ride
Location: Start and end in Waltham
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Date & Time: Sunday, December 18 at 9:00am
Distance: ~40 miles
Price: Free
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Location: Start and end in Waltham near the Mighty Squirrel
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride for gravel, mountain & fat bikes
Date & Time: Sunday, December 18 at 9:00am
Distance: ~40 miles
Price: Free; see NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
Details
Update 12/14/22: The Toy Box ride is being moved to join the same rollout time as Brutiful for Sunday due to trail-soaking rains coming Friday. So if you want a 25-mile ride instead of 40, that option exists as well!
This mixed-terrain ride takes cyclists to many interesting trails with roads connecting them for a total of ~40 miles.
A 40 mile mixed terrain ride is not insignificant. This is a great opportunity to get your fat bike out and make sure it’s ready for the big rides you’re looking forward to doing this winter once the snow starts sticking.
The route is a mixed terrain route so any gravel bike with 40mm tires is suited for the terrain. We’ll split people into groups based on bikes and speeds that are likely to result. At this time of year, we may have weather so we’ll update all riders who RSVP right before the ride with any updates or suggested bike/tires based on current conditions.
We have a designated Super Domestique leading the last group to depart which will be rolling at a slow endurance pace. The Super Domestique will be riding a fully loaded fat bike in final preparation for the Fat Pursuit so this is an opportunity for anyone who wants to ride slower, test out a loaded setup or have a chatty ride without pacing concerns to join in with this last group!
Distance
The ride is ~40 miles in length. It will likely have a cut-back option if a rider is interested in keeping it shorter, but the cut-back option will be on regular roads and not defined by the route. Let us know if you’d want a shorter option so we’re aware.
Parking
We email everyone by 7pm the evening before the ride with logistics, details of parking, and the route.
Route
The route will be emailed to all who RSVP.
Estimated Ride Time
~4-9 hours depending on the bike you ride and your pace.
Route Notes
We discuss these with you prior to rollout. Note that a mixed terrain ride is rougher than a “gravel” ride.
After the Ride
We won’t be serving food or drinks at this ride only because we’re expecting riders to finish up at very different times. Since we’re parking next to the Mighty Squirrel, there’s usually a food truck outside and tasty beer inside for post-ride calorie replenishment!
Last-Minute Information
We will email all participants with any critical late-breaking news. Very, very last-minute news is found on our Twitter feed (shown on the home page of this website in case you don’t have a Twitter account).
Contact Information
Email - connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com with questions about this ride anytime 1 hour or more prior to the start of the ride.
CALL US if you need us to know anything just before the ride start or during the ride at 413-461-7433.
Don’t txt if you need an immediate response, all txt msgs go to our email that we aren’t checking if we’re in front of people at the ride or on our bikes.
Riding Rules
All riders are required to read and are expected to abide by These Rules. RSVP’ing to this ride indicates you have read and accept all of the rules. These make the ride safer and more fun for all.
Waiver
Ride Headquarters requires a signed waiver before your first ride. Please fill it out online prior to your first ride.
If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.
Proper bike & Equipment
Bring lights if you’re joining the Super Domestique for the slowest version of the ride and if there is any chance you’ll still be riding at 4pm when it’s getting dark, front and rear lights are required. At this time of year, keep lights on your bike for safety, it’s too easy to be out past sunset!
35mm knobby tires minimum. Wider tires are nicer! Tire choice depends on your riding skill set. We expect to see gravel bikes, mountain bikes, and fat bikes at this ride, the majority of bikes will likely be gravel bikes.
Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. If you are an experienced cyclist who has used platform pedals and sticky shoes extensively, this is acceptable. 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.
High enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires. We recommend about 80% of maximum rated tire pressure. Sometimes this is much too high, ask us if you’re not sure where to set your tire pressure. We like you to have more than enough air for these reasons:
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.
You can easily take it out, much harder to add it in.
Be sure you have supplies necessary for all common mechanicals including extra derailleur hangers, a multi-tool, quick chain links, tubes, CO2 or hand pump, etc. You are responsible for you and your bike.
RSVP to Participate in this Ride Now!
Please RSVP only after you’ve made sure you can attend. It is inconsiderate to RSVP prior to committing to attending since it affects the experience of the other cyclists in attendance. We understand that things come up last-minute. Be sure to email us if you can’t attend: connect@newenglandexpeditionriders.com.
Full Moon Mixed Terrain Night Rides
Location: Various start locations
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain
Time & Date: Evenings around the Full Moon all year
Distance: ~15 miles
Price: Free
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!
Toy Box Mixed Terrain Ride
Mixed Terrain Ride
Starts in Waltham, MA
20-25 miles in length
Free, but we ask you to donate to the fundraiser in the spirit of the holidays!
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride, a few paved roads, dirt and trails, nothing too technical
Location: Start and end in Waltham, MA - near the Mighty Squirrel
Date & Time: 9am rollout Sunday, December 18 (date moved from Saturday to Sunday due to expected too wet trails on Saturday)
Distance: ~25 miles
Price: Free, but in the spirit of the holidays, please donate to the Boston Children’s Hospital, details below AND be aware of NEER membership requirements discussed below after the first ride you do with us
Become a member of NEER in order to join us if this is your second ride with us
RSVPs: Required, see bottom of page for RSVP form
*Ride Headquarters is donating $20 per 45NRTH item purchased toward the Boston Children’s Hospital fundraising so buying a set of tires helps you donate more to the kids!
Details of the Special Aspects of this Ride:
This is a very fun mixed terrain ride, and it’s also an opportunity for us to share holiday cheer while on bikes together during the holiday season.
Virtual Toy Drive: In the spirit of the holidays, we want to help kids find joy. This ride benefits the Boston Children’s Hospital. Your donation helps purchase meaningful items for patients. Specifically, here is how your dollars help buy children much needed joy.
Please donate directly via the button here, before December 17. No actual toys will be collected via this drive.
Buy Winter Riding Gear: For every 45NRTH item you purchase, Ride Headquarters will donate an additional $20 to this drive. Stay safe riding on ice this winter and feel especially good about your purchase!
If you want to contribute but can’t attend the ride, no problem! Just click the link at the button above and your contribution is easy to make there.
Last year’s Toy Box ride was at night and was very festive! Between Ride Headquarters’ financial contribution and riders’ money and toys donated, a total of $2,437 was donated to ABCD who was the beneficiary of last year’s Toy Box ride. Over 40 riders came out to share in the holiday joy of riding and giving!
DEADLINE: All donations should be completed before this ride happens on December 18, so we have a total amount to celebrate on the ride!
Ride Details: This mixed-terrain ride takes cyclists through Waltham and to surrounding towns. The route includes paved roads, trails, dirt roads, grassy areas, and other places off the beaten path. Considering the time of year, if trails are wet but not frozen, we’ll implement a back-up ride plan to be kind to the trails.
The ride departs at 9:00 am with various speed groups. We have a designated Super Domestique leading the last group to depart which will be rolling at a slower moderate pace. If you have ridden mixed terrain before and can average 14mph on a paved road ride, you should be fine with the pace of this ride. We typically have 2-3 groups who we assemble at rollout who each ride together and ahead of the Super Domestique-led group. This way, if one gets with a group that’s a bit faster than desired, that person can drop back to the last group and have a super fun ride. We expect to have gravel, mountain, and fat bikes attending.
We don’t have a sweep rider for this ride so only participate if you’re confident in your skill level and fitness.
Parking: We email everyone by 7pm the evening before the ride with logistics details, where to park, where to meet up, and the route. Parking is free and ample.
Route: The weather and trail conditions dictate the route. We expect this ride to be 20-25 miles in length. If you want a longer ride, the Brutiful ride is happening at the same time and is a 40-mile adventure.
Estimated time: ~2.5-3.5 hours depending on your speed group.
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 there won’t be that much requiring any technical ability. The trails we’re on are well maintained.
Get in the spirit of the holidays and feel free to come decorated!
Last Minute Information: 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.
Leave your fenders at home, there are so many twigs and leaves on the trails, fenders only serve to collect these in ways that can break them, your spokes, derailleurs, etc.
Per our usual recommendations, be sure to have everything you need in case of a minor mechanical including flat fixing and chain fixing tools and supplies, including a rear derailleur hanger if your bike uses one. Also have a plan if your bike or body decide to stop working mid-ride.
Ride your fattest tire bike. 32mm tires are the minimum. Bigger tires roll better over things you can’t see and are more fun on rougher terrain. It’s fat bike season anyway so there will be a number of fat bikes on this ride. Gravel bikes are perfectly acceptable and will have plenty of fun if this is your fattest tire bike.
Clipless pedals and shoes. These are important elements of bike control. If you are an experienced cyclist who has used platform pedals and sticky shoes extensively, this is acceptable. 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 Tuned Bike: Be sure your bike is in safe working order, have it 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.
Ride with high enough tire pressure to prevent pinch flatting and burping your tires. We recommend about 80% to 90% of maximum rated tire pressure to begin. Ask us if you’re not sure where to set your tire pressure. We want you to have more than enough air for these reasons:
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.
You can easily take it out, much harder to add it in.
Flat tires and burped tires are especially problematic when it’s cold. We ride on the coldest days. Our ride leader(s) can’t help with mechanicals when it’s so cold, we risk freezing our sensitive extremities.
Waiver: NEER requires a signed waiver before your first ride.
IMPORTANT for participation:
If this is your second or more ride with us, our insurance requires that you become a member of NEER.
How do we decide if we’re having the ride?
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 must have studded tires in order to ride with us.
Cold: It doesn’t matter what the temperature is, we ride. The coldest ride we’ve hosted started at 5 degrees. It was a blast!
RSVP Now!
First Snow Ride - 2022/2023
Location: Arlington, MA
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride - Snowy trails & roads
Date & Time: The FIRST snowfall of the season!
Distance: ~15-18 miles
Price: Free
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride / Roads and snow-covered trails - over 80% of the ride is on dirt trails
Location: Cambridge, near the Alewife Station
Date & Time: Right after the first “official” snow hits!
Distance: ~10 miles, approx 2 hrs, condition-dependent
Price: Free, but you must be a NEER Member to attend
Please RSVP in the form below if you hope to join in on this ride. We’ll ask for a more definite RSVP once the “go time” becomes clearer
In 2017, we had a huge turnout for the first snow ride which hit early in the afternoon on a Saturday!
Important Ride Updates
Details: When the first snow comes to eastern Massachusetts, we ride in it regardless of the time of day or day of the week. This is our 8th year hosting this memorable and much-too-fun ride!
If the first snow happens between January 3 & January 9, we will not be able to run this ride since we’ll be in Idaho to participate in the Fat Pursuit. If this happens, we’ll host an extra special snow ride to make it up to you!
Starting/ending Location: The ride will begin at 125 Cambridgepark Dr, Cambridge, MA 02140, this is the parking lot next to Revival Cafe, very near the Alewife station.
Route: The route is available to attendees 15-minutes prior to roll-out. We will email it to those who have registered if time permits. We’ll have at least one ride leader, possibly more, who will lead the way so it is not required for you to come with the route loaded.
Estimated time: ~2 hours
RSVP: Please RSVP below (at the very bottom of this page) so we know if you’re interested in this ride.
Required: Studded tires and lights. New snow falling on the frozen ground will turn to ice. Front and rear lights are required anytime we’re riding in hard-to-see conditions which includes falling snow and/or night.
Ride Notes: The pace is based on conditions. We don't ride too slowly because we'd get cold, we don't ride too fast because that wouldn't be safe with the snow. We will ride spaced out with a leader or two. Be sure to come prepared with the right bike & tires, and proper attire for the conditions and temperature.
The pace assumes riders who attend have adequate fitness to keep up on a 16mph road ride, if riders were on road bikes on a road ride. This is not that kind of a ride, of course, but that is the best way to describe the amount of fitness necessary to ensure you’ll have a good time.
Read on below, there is a lot to this ride and how it works. Be sure to understand it to be able to participate in it! KEEP READING - lots more information is further down this page.
Last Minute Information: Watch NEER’s Twitter feed for last-minute updates, especially considering this is a last-minute ride by its very nature.
Contact Information: Email - connect@rideheadquarters.com, Phone - (413)-461-7433 - we receive voicemails left at this phone number regardless of where we are.
Riding Rules
Everyone who chooses to participate in this ride must be comfortable with the protocols.
All of our Riding Rules apply. 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 override any conflicting rules stated in our ride rule page.
Waiver: When you join NEER, you’ll sign a waiver that applies for the year. Only NEER members may participate in this ride.
First Snow Nitty Gritty Details
One of our favorite pastimes is riding in snowfall. You can hear the snow crunching under your tires. It’s such a quiet time; all sound is suppressed by the snowfall. No one is out on the roads and trails. The world feels primitive and peaceful.
The moment of the first snowfall is THE time to ride. We are leading a ride when this first snow hits!
Watch Twitter to see the latest and get ready now so you can join in!!!
We are ready. Are you?
Ride Synopsis
We are leading a ride that begins very soon (1-2 hours) after the first snow of the season begins. We define the first snow as having accumulation of approximately 1” of snow at “go” time, and the forecast must predict that it will snow for the duration of the ride. This means the prediction will need to be for 4+ hours of snow fall, at least.
We won’t be riding if the snow isn’t going to last for the duration of the ride.
Most important to note: GO time is decided with at least 1 hour of notice for you, more if possible. So be ready and keep checking our updates to know when it will hit. We try to get ahead of notifying you when it sounds like it might be happening a day or two in advance, depending on the weather forecast.
The ride will be 90 minutes to 2 hours in length total. No more. The distance of the route will take into account how hard the snow is falling & how fast the ride will be.
The route is mixed terrain. Expect to be on- and off-road, on trails and through woods with some back roads too.
The pace of the ride will be high enough to keep everyone working hard. This way, everyone stays warm. This doesn’t mean we’ll be moving fast considering studded tires and winter setups aren’t exactly fast. No one gets dropped.
Here’s How We Plan for the First Snow
Be flexible. We have no idea when it’s going to snow. It’s most common for snowfall to occur during the afternoon but it could be 2am or any other time. A mindset focused on the ride, rather than when the ride will occur, is helpful.
Be ready. Have a Snow Essentials Duffel packed and with you at all times – we provide some content hints below. Have your bike ready to go.
The Right Tires: Studded tires are required for this ride. Once the first snow falls you will very likely want to be riding studs for the rest of the winter since ice will be much more likely with the freeze/thaw of winter temps during the day and amount of precipitation.
Headlight & Taillight: Whether we’re riding at 2pm or 2am, you have to have at least one headlight and taillight to join us. Snowfall makes it really difficult for drivers to see cyclists. A headlight and taillight will help a great deal with visibility for everyone. Make sure you charge those lights a few days in advance. If you’re looking to upgrade your lights, we stock very good lights and can bring them to you already charged!
First Snow History
In 2021, there was no first snow! It came Friday, January 7 of 2022 and we started riding at 7:30am, in deep, rideable fluffy power. About 20 people joined in the festivities and enjoy hot cocoa at the big, red van afterward!
In 2020, we were out on December 17 in a big snowstorm with a ride that started at 10:30pm. We started from Sherborn so it was hard for people to drive to it. However, it was magical and in the heart of the pandemic, it felt normal and so full of good feelings and community. Sharing hot chocolate around a fire after the ride was special.
In 2019, we were out on December 1st in the early evening with 30+ people. This was the Thanksgiving holiday weekend.
In 2018, we were out from 9:30-11:30pm on a weeknight in mid-November with over 40 riders.
In 2017, we were out riding at 1pm on a Saturday afternoon with over 40 riders.
2016 was an 8am Monday morning ride, the hardest time to find riders and quiet trails/roads of all - but we still did it!
2015 - This was our inaugural year. We were out riding with a “go” time of 3am. People came as far and wide as Jamaica Plain to join in the festivities!
Knowing When the Snowfall Ride Moment Arrives
We’re using Twitter to keep people informed of when the ride is happening. We’ll do our best to inform riders as the moment gets nearer. The final Tweet will be 60-minutes before the ride begins. That’s your klaxon to get your butt and bike over to the start for a very memorable ride.
Twitter should be visible to you whether or not you have an account. Watch Instagram for inspiring photos & post using it to document your preparation and ride images too:
This is the hashtag to use with all photos you post: #rscfirstsnow
Tricks for Riding in the Snow
Traction: Snow riding is all about traction. Four ways of maximizing traction are:
Apply steady horsepower to the pedals. This is a lot more difficult than it appears. If you’re riding at 70 hp on a snowy trail, a change of 10%, or 7 hp, is a lot – and can be the different between maintaining your line and losing traction entirely. Practice steady horsepower output.
Keep your bike upright, even while turning. The more you lean into a corner, the less traction you have. Most tires have less tread and fewer studs toward the sides of the tire. Don’t lean your bike too much. Riding upright keeps you upright.
Tire pressure: Lower tire pressure provides better traction. Of course, you want to balance this with the possibility of getting a flat. We find that riding on an inch of snow is deceptive, in that you feel like the trail is really smooth, when in reality, all the obstacles are still there – and just as sharp – you just can’t see them, so your chance of getting a flat probably increases slightly.
Tires and treads: Studs are best. Wider is better than narrower. Treads are better than slicks.
Be careful. This may seem obvious but we see this as a fundamental issue each season in the first snow. Taking a tumble in the ice and snow can be problematic; these falls are fast, unexpected, and hard. Ride conservatively and don’t worry about winning.
No fenders: Snow time may seem like a great time to have fenders, but it’s not. Not only are fenders dangerous on mixed terrain – due to sticks and debris on the trail, it’s also likely that your fenders will get packed with snow and make your ride a lot tougher.
Batteries die. Batteries don’t like the cold so they power down a lot more quickly than on an autumn day. Three hours of battery life can become one hour – or worse – in the cold months. Keep your electronics warm – in your jacket or jersey, not in your saddle bag – until you need them. This includes your phone, backup battery, spare light, and your Garmin – if you’re not the ride navigator.
Likely Weather Conditions
It can’t snow if it’s too cold so it’s likely to be somewhere between 28 and 36 degrees. Also, you’re likely to get a bit wet as the snow melts on you; gear that leans toward rain protection can be useful.
Always Be Prepared: Snow Essentials Duffel
Have your Snow Essentials Duffel in your car – if that’s your mode of work transport – so you’re always ready to roll. In that bag, we recommend:
All the clothing you typically use for 30-40 degree riding. Clothing that likes wet conditions isn’t a bad idea, either. Note: We’re only including the gear that people often forget when they’re in a hurry, and riding in unexpected conditions. If you forget to put your bibs in your Snow Essentials Kit, we have no sympathy!
Headlight 100% charged and ready for 2.5 hours of use. Ideally, two headlights – one on your bars and one on your helmet.
Taillight batteries in good condition.
Winter shoes or your autumn shoes with overshoes.
Long thick wool socks
Helmet – with light mount ready to go.
Long finger gloves, possibly with liners.
Three season cap that covers your ears. A brim will be appreciated – it can help keep the snow out of your eyes.
Neck gator - doubles as a face covering.
Protective glasses if that’s your kind of thing for riding in a snowstorm.
High-vis vest if you like to be visible. If there’s ever a time to increase your visibility, it’s during a snowstorm; drivers have a really difficult time seeing cyclists through snowfall.
Towel to dry off after the ride.
Puffy jacket, a change of clothes that are warm and fleece-lined, warm cap and mittens feel so good post-ride!
Ride Headquarters Is Here To Help
We have just about anything you could need for winter riding, including:
Winter Bikes. There are considerations to be made where it comes to the bike you ride in the winter. We have bikes that are great all year, but are extra special for winter riding. Check out the Seven Cycles Treeline bike: summer mountain bike, winter fat bike. Titanium is a perfect frame material for a bike that’s going to see the salt and harsh conditions of winter. A winterized bike is also important. For example, if snow is allowed into the brake housing, your brakes will likely freeze up. We can winterize your bike to keep your rolling.
Lots of studded tire options. And the tubes needed for each tire size. We can help determine the ideal tire size for your bike and guarantee what will fit and what won’t. Not all studded tires are created equal. We can help determine the right price point for your riding needs.
Studded tire installation help. Studded tires are often the toughest type of tire to install because they’re thicker, stiffer, and sometimes are steel beaded. We’re happy to help.
Lights: We have the toughest winter lights available. We’ll help you determine optimal number of lumens for your needs. We’ll help you determine where the best mounting spot is on your bike or body. The best kind of taillight for visibility and longevity. So many options – all with different strengths and weaknesses.
Gloves: We have everything from lightweight full fingers to deep winter 45Nrth gloves and liners. We have an array of models and sizes to determine the ideal setup for your type of riding. We can help with determining which are best for wet weather, for glove liners, or for the coldest days. Lots of glove options for lots of kinds of riding.
Winter Shoes: We’ve got 45NRTH Wolvhammers in stock and will order more upon request. We’ll help you find the right size, and install cleats on your new boots, too.
We hope to see you in the first snow!
#rscfirstsnow
Come by at least 15-minutes early to the ride starting location so you can make any last minute bike adjustments. We’ll be there with the van with supplies, hand warmers, toe warmers, and any gear you’ve asked us to bring to the start for you!
RSVP with your interest in joining now!
Trail Mix 100 Middle Massachusetts 2021 Edition
Ride Type: Remote paved and dirt roads
Time & Date: Sunday, September 19
Starting Point: Red Apple Farm - Phillipston, MA
Distance: 100km or 100 miles - your choice
Pricing:
100 Mile - starts at $85 - Register Here
100 KM - starts at $65 - Register Here
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
Ride Type: Mixed Terrain Ride
Date & Time: Some Saturdays 9am
Distance: ~25 miles typically
Price: Free
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.
Trail Mix 100 Northern Reaches Edition
Ride Type: Remote paved and dirt roads
Time & Date: Sunday, August 1 (note: the ride had been scheduled for July 18, but dangerous weather was predicted, so we moved the date and have re-opened registration!)
Starting Point: Winchedon, MA
Distance: 100km or 100 miles - your choice
Price: $85 - Register Here
Trail Mix 100 Northen Reaches Edition
Join us for incredibly beautiful cycling on the back roads of the north-central part of Massachusetts and southern New Hampshire! 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 near Winchendon, 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, 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, August 1, 2021 - we moved this ride’s date from July 18 due to terrible weather on the original date. So registration is re-open and we’re running this August 1 now!
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: Winchendon, MA
Distance: 100 mile or 100 km - you choose & all riders start with the same ~30 miles so if you want to change your mind mid-ride, 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 via a driving mechanic
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
$85 if you’re registered by July 29, 11:59 pm
$100 if you register July 30 or 31
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 > 15 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 > 10 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
Winchendon, 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
About 70-80 minutes from Ride Headquarters in Sherborn
Route Information
This is a 100% all-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.
The elevation is approximately 75 ft. per mile.
100 km ~4,600 ft. of climbing
100 mile ~7,500 ft. of climbing
Scroll to the very bottom of this page to see the routes & how much is pavement versus dirt!
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.
Where to Stay
First, thank you to those of you who are coming from a distance to join us for Trail Mix!
There is a lovely, large campground that’s located just down the street from the start/end of the ride. We’ve spent quite a few nights here while scouting the route!
100km route - Red is pavement, blue is dirt! All riders will be on these roads/trails during the ride.
100 mile route extension - Red is pavement, blue is dirt! This is the additional loop for all 100 mile riders, approximately 35miles in length.
Saturday Horizon Chasers 2021
Location: Various, near Lexington, mA
Ride Type: Road Ride
Date & Time: Select Saturdays spring through fall
Distance: usually 50-60 miles, sometimes more
Price: Free
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.
Trail Mix Gravel Rhode Island Edition
Ride Type: Remote paved and dirt roads
Time & Date: Saturday, June 26, 2021.
Starting Point: Voluntown, Connecticut
Distance: 65 miles.
Price: $65 - Register Here
Join us for incredibly beautiful cycling on the back roads of Rhode Island! 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 requires starting near Voluntown, Connecticut - so most people will need to drive to the start.
This is a group or solo organized ride. You may ride with your friends, as long as you register saying you’ll be riding together.
New Option! Ride with New People!
We’ve just added a new category: 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’re riding on roads with very light traffic in an area you’re unlikely to be very familiar with. It’s wonderful riding, but 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.
We are staffing a mid-ride food stop and serving a substantial meal post-ride. Enjoy a great ride, , and drink delicious, and famous, Ride Studio Cafe 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. 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.
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
Time & Date: Saturday, June 26, 2021
Rollout times will be assigned from 7:30am-9:00am
Starting Point: West Greenwich, Rhode Island
Distance: 65 miles.
Price: $65 - Register Here
What you get
Gorgeous, well-planned route: Route file for your Garmin, parking directions/instructions.
Staffed starting location with water, portable toilets, friendly staff
Staffed food stop with water, bike food, Ride Studio Iced Mochas
Route Support via a cyclist riding sweep who is capable of helping for most mechanicals
Peace of Mind knowing there are other riders on the same route
Substantial lunch at the end of the ride of delicious, hearty food - BBQ for all dietary needs!!!
Start Location
Updated location: Greenwich, RI. This is near Voluntown, CT which you may have heard us mention in relation to this ride in previous communications. Parking details will be shared individually with each registrant before the ride.
Estimated drive times:
About 90 minutes from Lexington
About 85 minutes from Ride Headquarters in Sherborn
Route Information
Here is some general information about the route:
~65 Mile Route
Miles of dirt: ~40% of the miles are on dirt roads.
About 50 feet of climbing per mile. Approximately 3,500 feet of total ascent.
1 staffed food stop approximately mid-ride
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 alone for a 20-mile all-paved ride in the Boston area. 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. This is a good “first” gravel ride or if you’re not feeling like you’re in great shape, this is an easier route than many.
We are using your “average” ride pace info to determine your start time, purposely separating people who would gravitate to each other during normal circumstances. We are also starting faster riders after the less fast riders so people finish around the same time.
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 CT and RI) 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 meal to eat afterward. Pack 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 Friday, 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
28mm-40mm tires are appropriate. Feel free to use bigger tires. 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.
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. With no drafting, the requirements about fenders are a bit more relaxed now!
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.