OK people. Look, I am a true flatlander, coming from Clayton, NC. On a 40-50mi ride around here, I
might and I mean
might, have 1000-1200' elevation change.
And, I'm being very generous with those numbers.
I just came home from riding up there with Jschen, BWNC, and roadrider. Yes, the Ring of Fire loop (Cullowhee Mtn Rd, Pine Crk, & Elijay) was very hard to ride for me. But, I managed with a 34/27. Yes, I had to stop some and rest. Yes, I was the last one on every climb. This last ride was a social ride, as were all the others. No one is here to race or see who can get to the top first. It surely won't be me
. If it's your first time riding in the mountains, you get some pats on the back and high fives when you reach the top because this is a great accomplishment, at least it was for me. And, don't forget - the downhill descents way more than make up for the climbing!!!! 52.8mph max downhill speed for me on this last journey!!! weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee
Being a social ride, there is no real "racing" on the ride, but, if I have the strength/energy, I will try to go for the county line signs, city limit signs, etc, or try to beat BWNC up the very short and not too steep grades on Burningtown
. I know that I most likely won't win, but hey, it's all in fun
.
Seriously, don't let the elevation profile scare you away. Yea, it looks rough and hard, but in all seriousness,
if I, a true flatlander, can go up there not once but five times and ride, it can't be all that difficult. (Yes it can, but it's completely do-able
). I must be a glutton for punishment as I'm doing this ride, and have plans for 3 or 4 other events up there this year.
So, go ahead and make your reservations for a night or two at the Pisgah Inn and come on up and enjoy riding in the WNC mountains and on the BRP. I already have my room reserved
.
WP.