PLEASE READ ENTIRE NOTES FOR RIDE INFORMATION (Facebook or Strava RSVP):
Third year is a charm as we’ll be returning to some of Southern California’s best gravel experiences riding up in Big Bear (AND WE MAY BE ADDING MORE DETAILS!).
We’re looking for a slightly different course this year as we’ll still go around the lake, but ADDING Butler Peak(not on map yet, RSVP to get updates).
Once again Dirty Bear course director Robin Brown from the Tour de Big Bear will help us finalize the route.
Here are some ride notes:
- The climbing is between the Intermediate/Advanced level and might put you into the red. These are not rides for beginners or those working their way back.
- We will be meeting at 9:30am for coffee at the Copper Q (645 Pine Knot Ave b, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315) with ride instructions given out at 10am SHARP.
- Free Parking is available behind Copper Q at 630 Knickerbocker.
- Cellphone reception is limited / non-existent over most of the region.
- There will be a number of regroups, but once everyone’s back, we roll!
- Make sure to bring your own tubes and a couple of water bottles. There will be a couple of stops for refills.
- We will be having our post ride meal at 572 Social (572 Pine Knot Ave, Big Bear Lake, CA 92315) with bike space available.
- Riding tires 42mm and above will do the trick for most, as the climbs are steep and there’s some soft patches on the dirt descents, as well as loose pavement on the road.
- This will not be race pace. At the same time, you have to be in the good to great shape range to do this ride. If you’re just getting back into riding, I suggest you read Rule #1 again.
Our route will be similar to last year’s in term of milage, but with a little more elevation.
On both sides of the lake we plan on riding single track, but they are not highly technical on the descents although obviously you’ll need to pay attention.
There will also be water stops on both sides of the lake, so no more than two bottles will do it.
We are expecting about four thousand feet of gain, but there will be a few bailout points if you want to avoid before ending back to eat at 572 Social.
This is a unique opportunity to ride, so get ready for the Send It mile high style!