couchweight
06-25-08, 08:26 PM
Who's done it, who's in for it? Anything I need to know?
View Full Version : Death ride?
jonathanb715
06-25-08, 10:06 PM
Who's done it, who's in for it? Anything I need to know?
There's a bit of climbing.
I'm trying it for the 2nd time. Last year I broke my bike without even doing the first pass. I'm a slow climber, so I'm one of those that will start early, aiming to get to the top of Monitor just as the first rest stop/sticker station opens.
This blog (http://www.deathride.com/pdf/DeathRideExperience.pdf) has a good write-up of what the experience is like.
JB
There's a bit of climbing.
I'm trying it for the 2nd time. Last year I broke my bike without even doing the first pass. I'm a slow climber, so I'm one of those that will start early, aiming to get to the top of Monitor just as the first rest stop/sticker station opens.
This blog (http://www.deathride.com/pdf/DeathRideExperience.pdf) has a good write-up of what the experience is like.
JB
gpelpel
06-25-08, 10:39 PM
I am in it for the first time. I will also start very early.
Some other blogs:
http://www.freewebs.com/bvy/My%20adventures%20on%20the%20Death%20Ride%20-%20Kevin%20Rudy.htm
http://www.actc.org/stories/2004/deathride04_js.htm
Some other blogs:
http://www.freewebs.com/bvy/My%20adventures%20on%20the%20Death%20Ride%20-%20Kevin%20Rudy.htm
http://www.actc.org/stories/2004/deathride04_js.htm
rydaddy
06-25-08, 10:43 PM
In it for the first time myself. I have undertrained so far... while my friends are doing quite a bit of training. As long as I am smart I should be able to finish no problem. Oh yeah, I need to hurry up with the compact crank install....
BenRidin
06-26-08, 08:59 AM
I did the ride for the first time last year and bagged the bugger. Here's my ride report I sent out to family and friends. I'll be there this year. Good luck.
I'm screaming down Carson Pass, having the time of my life, picking up speed, letting gravity take me home. 35, 40, 45, 51 mph...I can't look any more. I got to concentrate on the road or I might die....
It all started at 4:00am with U2's Theme from Mission Impossible (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AymbNQzGzE) waking us up. We get up, take our time having breakfast of Oatmeal, Banana's and a Bagel. I get a cup of Major Dickinson from John Neil and I'm so ready. Jack is ready to go by 4:30. "Good luck, get outta here...He's takes off.
At 5:35, we roll out. Damn, it's cold on the descent down into Markleeville. Even though I'm wearing a capilene, jersey, windbreaker and arm warmers, I am shivering. So much so, my bike is getting the wobbles. The first little hill takes the chill off. I'm holding myself back on purpose. I keep telling myself, this is an endurance ride, not a race...take your time. John Neil rolls by and say's to start stretching. I do and it feels good. There are people out in Markleeville cheering us on and at the turn towards Monitor Pass.
I'm with Andy and our friend Eric from Reno. Welp, here's the start of 5 passes. From here on forward, it's sit and spin. Monitor wasn't bad at all. It starts out at 9%, then 10% and finally finishes at 7%. Took a little over an hour. As you go up, the riders begin to thin from the big bunch on the bottom.
http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/8473/pict0013mediumkc5.jpg
At the top, you stop at a check point and get your sticker put on your bib, so the organizers know how many passes you grab. I need to fill up my water bottle, so as I lay down my bike I notice Jacks bike on the ground. I call out his name, and hear my name coming from the porta-potties. I wait and he tells me he is off to the backside of Monitor. Jack is in for a long day.
http://img389.imageshack.us/img389/1360/pict0018mediumfw3.jpg
The descent down Monitor is fast and swoopy. No tight turns, just long and flowy. I'm picking up speed when I see John Neil from our group off to the side changing a flat. I think about getting a flat at 45 mph and start to slow down. I realize I don't have my pump with me. You always forget something...
After a quick refill of H20, I start the climb and promptly pass Jack. It's going to be a long day. Halfway up the hill, the Boyscouts have a refueling station of water and Cytomax. They call out "what do you want?" and you toss them your bottle. They toss it up to the next person "relay style", that person tosses it to another and then you have your water bottle back, without having to slow your pace. Unbelievable support.
Monitor is beginning to get a bit warm and the road is one big line of cyclist.
http://img389.imageshack.us/img389/517/pict0021mediumrt9.jpg
At the top I refuel and Andy, Eric and now Mark have all come in. We make our way down the bottom and turn left to Ebbett's. It was at the rest stop before Ebbetts, where I took a drink of Cytomax. The stuff is the suxxor! Never again will I put that in my body. For some reason, I was dreading this climb. I don't why, I just was. The beginning of the ride spanks you with a 10% spot, but it's only for a few hundred feet, then it's mostly 7%, save for the hairpin turns, but those were not bad. Hell Hamilton is worst than Ebbetts.
The support was great.
http://img239.imageshack.us/img239/7937/pict0024mediumhb5.jpg
I came upon a young rider with his Dad heading up Ebetts. Very cool.
http://img389.imageshack.us/img389/8405/pict0026mediumzk7.jpg
The top off Ebbetts was a zoo, the girls handing out the stickers were wearing angel wings. They would also give you a stick of red licorice.
http://img389.imageshack.us/img389/9754/20171mediumhs3.jpg
We all regrouped on the bottom of Ebbetts. I can only stay for about ten minutes or my legs will get tired, So I take off. Even though this climb is about 7 miles with 1600 elevation gain, to me it was a tough climb. My stomach started to feel bloated and I couldn't find my rhythm. It just didn't flow. I get to the top and blow down to the other side where the lunch stop is. I make it into the lunch area at 12:00. Knowing that I need this nourishment, I have to force myself to eat. Let's see, watermelon, grapes, two slices of turkey, a slice of ham, and a hot cup of veggie soup. These guy's know what is good for you and the soup did the trick. At 12:30, Andy and Mark come in. Along with Jim Roberts. I tell Jim I am leaving at 12:45 and he's up for that.
After replenishing myself with spf 45 sunscreen, Jim and I take off to go tackle pass number 5. We've gone so far about 72 miles and we still have another 55 to go till we finish. It's getting warm and the breeze is picking up. As we ride pace line style, others join in. Soon our paceline is about ten deep and each rider helps pull. We get up to about 25 mph. The group falls apart on the small hill up to Markleeville and then another one begins on the descent into town. Everybody and their Mother is out in support for the riders in Markleeville. For a brief two seconds I pretended I was in the tour. A few more hills and we descend into Woodfords. Carson Pass is the last hurdle.
We pull up and Julie asks if I want her to hold my bike while I refuel. Did I mention how amazing the support was?
http://img369.imageshack.us/img369/3558/pict0028mediumdd1.jpg
We leave the rest stop and climb up 8 miles to Picketts Junction into a head wind. Jim is cramping bad, so to give him some relief, I tell him I will pull. We blow by a group of three, who join us. After about a mile, one of the riders takes over pulling. This guy was perfect. He must stand at 6'4'' and was the best windblock I could ask. He kept the cadence just right. Soon we were at Picketts. The adrenaline from everyone is infectious. We all know the end is near.
http://img353.imageshack.us/img353/8976/pict0029mediumvx4.jpg
After ten minutes we are off. We fly though Hope Valley and make are way up Carson Pass. The wind is in our face again, but the big guy is doing a great job. Other riders are descending and I can't wait to be one of them. Our pace is about 6.5 to 7 mph as we grind pass other riders. Soon, we round the final turn and there are people along side the road again supporting us. Cow bells are ringing...amazing. We pull into the parking lot and get our 5th sticker and 5 pass pin. I'm asked what flavor of popsicle do I want?
http://img382.imageshack.us/img382/8518/pict0033mediummu9.jpg
Crunch Bar sounded perfect.
http://img50.imageshack.us/img50/7559/pict0032mediummd8.jpg
Jim and I sit under the tent and enjoy the ice cream. Everybody is stoked to be there. We leave at 5:00 and like a horse going home to the barn we fly down the mountain. I hit an all time personal speed record of 54.6 mph. It felt good to be one of the people flying down the hill while others are still climbing it. Jim and I make it back to Turtle Rock Park at 6:00. Total ride time was 12hrs, 22 minutes. Total wheels spinning was 9hrs, 58 minutes. My average heart rate was 136 with a max of 180. Google Earth can be found by clicking here.
Will I do this again next year? Yep, you bet. I'm hooked. By the way...Jack made 4 passes...with only three rides for training since the beginning of the year...What a stud or sicko.
I'm screaming down Carson Pass, having the time of my life, picking up speed, letting gravity take me home. 35, 40, 45, 51 mph...I can't look any more. I got to concentrate on the road or I might die....
It all started at 4:00am with U2's Theme from Mission Impossible (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8AymbNQzGzE) waking us up. We get up, take our time having breakfast of Oatmeal, Banana's and a Bagel. I get a cup of Major Dickinson from John Neil and I'm so ready. Jack is ready to go by 4:30. "Good luck, get outta here...He's takes off.
At 5:35, we roll out. Damn, it's cold on the descent down into Markleeville. Even though I'm wearing a capilene, jersey, windbreaker and arm warmers, I am shivering. So much so, my bike is getting the wobbles. The first little hill takes the chill off. I'm holding myself back on purpose. I keep telling myself, this is an endurance ride, not a race...take your time. John Neil rolls by and say's to start stretching. I do and it feels good. There are people out in Markleeville cheering us on and at the turn towards Monitor Pass.
I'm with Andy and our friend Eric from Reno. Welp, here's the start of 5 passes. From here on forward, it's sit and spin. Monitor wasn't bad at all. It starts out at 9%, then 10% and finally finishes at 7%. Took a little over an hour. As you go up, the riders begin to thin from the big bunch on the bottom.
http://img291.imageshack.us/img291/8473/pict0013mediumkc5.jpg
At the top, you stop at a check point and get your sticker put on your bib, so the organizers know how many passes you grab. I need to fill up my water bottle, so as I lay down my bike I notice Jacks bike on the ground. I call out his name, and hear my name coming from the porta-potties. I wait and he tells me he is off to the backside of Monitor. Jack is in for a long day.
http://img389.imageshack.us/img389/1360/pict0018mediumfw3.jpg
The descent down Monitor is fast and swoopy. No tight turns, just long and flowy. I'm picking up speed when I see John Neil from our group off to the side changing a flat. I think about getting a flat at 45 mph and start to slow down. I realize I don't have my pump with me. You always forget something...
After a quick refill of H20, I start the climb and promptly pass Jack. It's going to be a long day. Halfway up the hill, the Boyscouts have a refueling station of water and Cytomax. They call out "what do you want?" and you toss them your bottle. They toss it up to the next person "relay style", that person tosses it to another and then you have your water bottle back, without having to slow your pace. Unbelievable support.
Monitor is beginning to get a bit warm and the road is one big line of cyclist.
http://img389.imageshack.us/img389/517/pict0021mediumrt9.jpg
At the top I refuel and Andy, Eric and now Mark have all come in. We make our way down the bottom and turn left to Ebbett's. It was at the rest stop before Ebbetts, where I took a drink of Cytomax. The stuff is the suxxor! Never again will I put that in my body. For some reason, I was dreading this climb. I don't why, I just was. The beginning of the ride spanks you with a 10% spot, but it's only for a few hundred feet, then it's mostly 7%, save for the hairpin turns, but those were not bad. Hell Hamilton is worst than Ebbetts.
The support was great.
http://img239.imageshack.us/img239/7937/pict0024mediumhb5.jpg
I came upon a young rider with his Dad heading up Ebetts. Very cool.
http://img389.imageshack.us/img389/8405/pict0026mediumzk7.jpg
The top off Ebbetts was a zoo, the girls handing out the stickers were wearing angel wings. They would also give you a stick of red licorice.
http://img389.imageshack.us/img389/9754/20171mediumhs3.jpg
We all regrouped on the bottom of Ebbetts. I can only stay for about ten minutes or my legs will get tired, So I take off. Even though this climb is about 7 miles with 1600 elevation gain, to me it was a tough climb. My stomach started to feel bloated and I couldn't find my rhythm. It just didn't flow. I get to the top and blow down to the other side where the lunch stop is. I make it into the lunch area at 12:00. Knowing that I need this nourishment, I have to force myself to eat. Let's see, watermelon, grapes, two slices of turkey, a slice of ham, and a hot cup of veggie soup. These guy's know what is good for you and the soup did the trick. At 12:30, Andy and Mark come in. Along with Jim Roberts. I tell Jim I am leaving at 12:45 and he's up for that.
After replenishing myself with spf 45 sunscreen, Jim and I take off to go tackle pass number 5. We've gone so far about 72 miles and we still have another 55 to go till we finish. It's getting warm and the breeze is picking up. As we ride pace line style, others join in. Soon our paceline is about ten deep and each rider helps pull. We get up to about 25 mph. The group falls apart on the small hill up to Markleeville and then another one begins on the descent into town. Everybody and their Mother is out in support for the riders in Markleeville. For a brief two seconds I pretended I was in the tour. A few more hills and we descend into Woodfords. Carson Pass is the last hurdle.
We pull up and Julie asks if I want her to hold my bike while I refuel. Did I mention how amazing the support was?
http://img369.imageshack.us/img369/3558/pict0028mediumdd1.jpg
We leave the rest stop and climb up 8 miles to Picketts Junction into a head wind. Jim is cramping bad, so to give him some relief, I tell him I will pull. We blow by a group of three, who join us. After about a mile, one of the riders takes over pulling. This guy was perfect. He must stand at 6'4'' and was the best windblock I could ask. He kept the cadence just right. Soon we were at Picketts. The adrenaline from everyone is infectious. We all know the end is near.
http://img353.imageshack.us/img353/8976/pict0029mediumvx4.jpg
After ten minutes we are off. We fly though Hope Valley and make are way up Carson Pass. The wind is in our face again, but the big guy is doing a great job. Other riders are descending and I can't wait to be one of them. Our pace is about 6.5 to 7 mph as we grind pass other riders. Soon, we round the final turn and there are people along side the road again supporting us. Cow bells are ringing...amazing. We pull into the parking lot and get our 5th sticker and 5 pass pin. I'm asked what flavor of popsicle do I want?
http://img382.imageshack.us/img382/8518/pict0033mediummu9.jpg
Crunch Bar sounded perfect.
http://img50.imageshack.us/img50/7559/pict0032mediummd8.jpg
Jim and I sit under the tent and enjoy the ice cream. Everybody is stoked to be there. We leave at 5:00 and like a horse going home to the barn we fly down the mountain. I hit an all time personal speed record of 54.6 mph. It felt good to be one of the people flying down the hill while others are still climbing it. Jim and I make it back to Turtle Rock Park at 6:00. Total ride time was 12hrs, 22 minutes. Total wheels spinning was 9hrs, 58 minutes. My average heart rate was 136 with a max of 180. Google Earth can be found by clicking here.
Will I do this again next year? Yep, you bet. I'm hooked. By the way...Jack made 4 passes...with only three rides for training since the beginning of the year...What a stud or sicko.
jobob
06-26-08, 09:05 AM
There's a bit of climbing.
:lol:
That was a fabulous report, BenRidin.
Good luck to all of you, especially you JB - hope the second try's the charm.
:lol:
That was a fabulous report, BenRidin.
Good luck to all of you, especially you JB - hope the second try's the charm.
jonathanb715
06-26-08, 09:13 AM
:lol:
That was a fabulous report, BenRidin.
Good luck to all of you, especially you JB - hope the second try's the charm.
Thanks, Jo. Riding with BenRidin around Morgan Territory re-confirmed that I'm a real slow climber - to get all 5 passes I'll definitely need to start early!
JB
That was a fabulous report, BenRidin.
Good luck to all of you, especially you JB - hope the second try's the charm.
Thanks, Jo. Riding with BenRidin around Morgan Territory re-confirmed that I'm a real slow climber - to get all 5 passes I'll definitely need to start early!
JB
ericm979
06-26-08, 01:50 PM
I've finished it four times (knee problems had me quit after four passes once). Bring low gears and pace yourself. Keep shoving the food down. The first four passes are easy; the last one is a lot tougher. The saying is that the second half of the ride begins after the lunch stop.
Here's my blog entry from last year:http://ericm.lne.com/blog/?p=78
Here's my blog entry from last year:http://ericm.lne.com/blog/?p=78
reidconti
06-26-08, 05:19 PM
I'll be there. Only been training on a real bike since mid-April, but I'm feeling pretty confident. Just wish this terrible weather + smoke wasn't making training so hard. I'm picking up some pretty good speed on the hills where I used to be a grind-it-out type. And my endurance/recovery is pretty good, so I think it'll be a good combo.
jupiterboy
06-26-08, 09:45 PM
I'm in for my first time. Thanks for the great 2007 ride report Ben. Starting early (like double centuries) always pays off.
Mike
Mike
Ty.S
06-27-08, 12:06 AM
If I can complete a century sometime this summer, then I'll make a serious consideration about getting my name in the lottery for the death ride next year.
ckeizer77
06-30-08, 11:25 PM
Reading some of the Vertical challenge posts I feel like I'm totally under training. I've ridden over 100 miles almost every weekend and done as much as 14,000 feet of climbing on one ride back in April. I've been trying to hold my peak off, but I'm afraid I might have peaked on Saturday. Whatever though... You'll see me there either having a great time, or having a great time suffering.
reidconti
07-01-08, 09:20 AM
Reading some of the Vertical challenge posts I feel like I'm totally under training. I've ridden over 100 miles almost every weekend and done as much as 14,000 feet of climbing on one ride back in April. I've been trying to hold my peak off, but I'm afraid I might have peaked on Saturday. Whatever though... You'll see me there either having a great time, or having a great time suffering.
You sound ready to me.. only one way to find out, get out there and ride all day!
Forecast for Markleeville has been revised, from a high of 82 to a high of 79... sounding pretty good!!
You sound ready to me.. only one way to find out, get out there and ride all day!
Forecast for Markleeville has been revised, from a high of 82 to a high of 79... sounding pretty good!!
ckeizer77
07-01-08, 10:47 AM
I'm pretty excited. I'm going to go up to Silverwood Lake this weekend to get in some last minute altitude training.
reidconti
07-05-08, 12:30 PM
1 more week!!! :) Starting to plan my supplies and packing already so that when I get up the morning of, I'll be able to grab and go. Trying to start at 5am.
Bostic
07-07-08, 10:27 AM
So I'm thinking of hunting down a ticket for this...
jwill911
07-07-08, 10:29 AM
This will be my first Death Ride, I think I'm ready training wise. But I'm a real creature of habit when it comes to pre-ride meal. What do you guys eat for breakfast. I'm planning a 5:00AM start with friends from my local club, that doesn't give much time for breakfast. I really don't want a Powerbar or ClifBar for breakfast.
I'm suspecting cold cereal with fruit and muffin or bagel and OJ. Just wondering what your power breakfast consist of.
Thanks,
jw
I'm suspecting cold cereal with fruit and muffin or bagel and OJ. Just wondering what your power breakfast consist of.
Thanks,
jw
BenRidin
07-07-08, 10:46 AM
...What do you guys eat for breakfast... Just wondering what your power breakfast consist of...
My routine was fairly simple. Small apricot with a bottle water...Prepare a Noah's "Everything" Bagel...Sip some Major Dickinson while the bowl of oatmeal is being prepared...Enjoy the Oatmeal.
This took approx 1/2 hour. 15 min before the start, I ate a small banana.
Good to go. Good luck.
BR
My routine was fairly simple. Small apricot with a bottle water...Prepare a Noah's "Everything" Bagel...Sip some Major Dickinson while the bowl of oatmeal is being prepared...Enjoy the Oatmeal.
This took approx 1/2 hour. 15 min before the start, I ate a small banana.
Good to go. Good luck.
BR
reidconti
07-07-08, 10:47 AM
jwill911, I'm doing the same thing, trying to figure out how to make a quick meal. I lose most of my time getting ready in the morning.. :) so I'm planning on having everything ready to go, and food that I can eat in the car on the (30 mile) drive to the start. Gonna try energy bar, a little hammer gel, some protein, etc... not sure yet, but I need something readymade.
I'm also planning on starting at 5. I figure even the 5:30 starters will be starting to park around 5, so hopefully I can park by 4:40 or 4:45.
I'm also planning on starting at 5. I figure even the 5:30 starters will be starting to park around 5, so hopefully I can park by 4:40 or 4:45.
1jacktripper
07-07-08, 10:51 AM
If it hasn't been said too many times already: don't forget to take pictures! It'll take the pain away on the climb! :-)
reidconti
07-07-08, 11:13 AM
yeah, hoping to get a bento box and borrow a pocket camera.. i'm getting lazy though and it's getting late...
ericm979
07-07-08, 11:46 AM
Early starters don't forget your lights. The CHP does check. I think that you can drop them off at the clothing dropoffs.
Last year I had breakfast at TRP (the one put on as a fundraiser). That worked pretty well although I would recommend skipping the sausage unless you are sure that it won't make you ill later.
When I have stayed in south lake tahoe I've had a cup of motel coffee and choked down a couple bagels on the drive over. That's not quite as good but it works.
Eating a solid breakfast and getting a start on digesting it before you start riding is important.
Last year I had breakfast at TRP (the one put on as a fundraiser). That worked pretty well although I would recommend skipping the sausage unless you are sure that it won't make you ill later.
When I have stayed in south lake tahoe I've had a cup of motel coffee and choked down a couple bagels on the drive over. That's not quite as good but it works.
Eating a solid breakfast and getting a start on digesting it before you start riding is important.
jwill911
07-07-08, 12:10 PM
Lights: I have a CatEye 5 LED which I usually keep in strobe mode unless it is totally dark and have a LED rear light.
Clothing: I plan on arm and leg warmers, with vest to start. I'll probably just carry the vest and arm warmers in my jersey pockets in case I need them later but will drop the head light, and leg warmers off for later pickup.
Breakfast: Still working out the details but thanks for the input.
Nutrition: I'm going to carry Hammer Gels, Bars and, Perpetium powder pre-measured to mix in one bottle and the other plain water. I also use Enduralytes since I don't like or can't stomach Gator or other 'aide drinks when they get warm.
If'n I can keep eating and drinking I think I'll be alright.
Good luck to all. Can't wait.
jw
Clothing: I plan on arm and leg warmers, with vest to start. I'll probably just carry the vest and arm warmers in my jersey pockets in case I need them later but will drop the head light, and leg warmers off for later pickup.
Breakfast: Still working out the details but thanks for the input.
Nutrition: I'm going to carry Hammer Gels, Bars and, Perpetium powder pre-measured to mix in one bottle and the other plain water. I also use Enduralytes since I don't like or can't stomach Gator or other 'aide drinks when they get warm.
If'n I can keep eating and drinking I think I'll be alright.
Good luck to all. Can't wait.
jw
jonathanb715
07-07-08, 12:33 PM
So I'm thinking of hunting down a ticket for this...
A friend was looking to sell hers - do you want me to check and see if it is still available?
JB
PS - rooms are still available in Topaz and S. Lake Tahoe
A friend was looking to sell hers - do you want me to check and see if it is still available?
JB
PS - rooms are still available in Topaz and S. Lake Tahoe
Bostic
07-07-08, 12:37 PM
That would be much appreciated! Thanks.
jonathanb715
07-07-08, 12:43 PM
Lights: I have a CatEye 5 LED which I usually keep in strobe mode unless it is totally dark and have a LED rear light.
Clothing: I plan on arm and leg warmers, with vest to start. I'll probably just carry the vest and arm warmers in my jersey pockets in case I need them later but will drop the head light, and leg warmers off for later pickup.
Breakfast: Still working out the details but thanks for the input.
Nutrition: I'm going to carry Hammer Gels, Bars and, Perpetium powder pre-measured to mix in one bottle and the other plain water. I also use Enduralytes since I don't like or can't stomach Gator or other 'aide drinks when they get warm.
If'n I can keep eating and drinking I think I'll be alright.
Good luck to all. Can't wait.
jw
For breakfast, I eat what I always eat, just earlier. I'll have a 20 minute drive from the hotel to the start, so I'll eat a banana on the way over also. Our room doesn't have a fridge, but a cooler will keep my milk and cream cheese cold.
Bringing your own drink mix is a great idea if you don't like or haven't tried Cytomax. Lots of complaints last year (I don't mind Cytomax, but I usually use Clif or Hammer products and will stick with those for the ride).
I'm planning on skipping the lunch stop (if all goes well, it will be packed by the time I get there) and leaving some lunch food in a cooler in my car near Turtle Rock. That will make my lunch a bit late, but I know it will be something I can tolerate on a ride. I know several people who used this strategy last year and it seemed to work well.
I'll also have my recovery drink in my cooler:beer:
JB
edit: Look for us at the TnT tent if you finish on the late side! The tent is usually near Turtle Rock, but the exact location will depend on parking the morning of. If you finish on the early side, well, you can wait until I finish:rolleyes:
Clothing: I plan on arm and leg warmers, with vest to start. I'll probably just carry the vest and arm warmers in my jersey pockets in case I need them later but will drop the head light, and leg warmers off for later pickup.
Breakfast: Still working out the details but thanks for the input.
Nutrition: I'm going to carry Hammer Gels, Bars and, Perpetium powder pre-measured to mix in one bottle and the other plain water. I also use Enduralytes since I don't like or can't stomach Gator or other 'aide drinks when they get warm.
If'n I can keep eating and drinking I think I'll be alright.
Good luck to all. Can't wait.
jw
For breakfast, I eat what I always eat, just earlier. I'll have a 20 minute drive from the hotel to the start, so I'll eat a banana on the way over also. Our room doesn't have a fridge, but a cooler will keep my milk and cream cheese cold.
Bringing your own drink mix is a great idea if you don't like or haven't tried Cytomax. Lots of complaints last year (I don't mind Cytomax, but I usually use Clif or Hammer products and will stick with those for the ride).
I'm planning on skipping the lunch stop (if all goes well, it will be packed by the time I get there) and leaving some lunch food in a cooler in my car near Turtle Rock. That will make my lunch a bit late, but I know it will be something I can tolerate on a ride. I know several people who used this strategy last year and it seemed to work well.
I'll also have my recovery drink in my cooler:beer:
JB
edit: Look for us at the TnT tent if you finish on the late side! The tent is usually near Turtle Rock, but the exact location will depend on parking the morning of. If you finish on the early side, well, you can wait until I finish:rolleyes:
jupiterboy
07-07-08, 01:58 PM
This was on the SFBC user forum this weekend.
Good luck
Michael Vare
From: Sean Handel <handels@yahoo.com>
Date: Sun, Jul 6, 2008 at 1:58 PM
Subject: [AltoVelo] Death Ride ticket for sale
To: AltoVelo <AltoVelo@yahoogroups.com>
I have a Death Ride ticket that I'm not going to be able to use - $90. Let me know if you're interested.
Sean __._,_
Good luck
Michael Vare
From: Sean Handel <handels@yahoo.com>
Date: Sun, Jul 6, 2008 at 1:58 PM
Subject: [AltoVelo] Death Ride ticket for sale
To: AltoVelo <AltoVelo@yahoogroups.com>
I have a Death Ride ticket that I'm not going to be able to use - $90. Let me know if you're interested.
Sean __._,_
Bostic
07-07-08, 01:59 PM
I contacted a local individual in Mt. View so I'm hoping to secure it this evening.
velogirls
07-07-08, 02:37 PM
Bostic, you gonna ride it on your fixie?
ckeizer77
07-07-08, 02:45 PM
This will be my first Death Ride, I think I'm ready training wise. But I'm a real creature of habit when it comes to pre-ride meal. What do you guys eat for breakfast. I'm planning a 5:00AM start with friends from my local club, that doesn't give much time for breakfast. I really don't want a Powerbar or ClifBar for breakfast.
I'm suspecting cold cereal with fruit and muffin or bagel and OJ. Just wondering what your power breakfast consist of.
My Power Breakfast is Oatmeal. It's quick to process so the carbs don't sit for hours before they're usable. I typically try to eat 500-1000 calories worth of oatmeal which translates to 1-2 cups of the stuff mixed with 2-4 cups of water. I also dump about a half cup of brown sugar in the stuff, because oatmeal doesn't taste that good to me.
BTW: My "Power meal" is consumed after the ride, and consists of Beer with a side of BBQ. I'll have a makeshift campsite set up somewhere where people can hang, but if anyone else is planning on doing some post ride partying we should all coordinate for drinking/bragging/picture sharing/drinking/drinking
I'm suspecting cold cereal with fruit and muffin or bagel and OJ. Just wondering what your power breakfast consist of.
My Power Breakfast is Oatmeal. It's quick to process so the carbs don't sit for hours before they're usable. I typically try to eat 500-1000 calories worth of oatmeal which translates to 1-2 cups of the stuff mixed with 2-4 cups of water. I also dump about a half cup of brown sugar in the stuff, because oatmeal doesn't taste that good to me.
BTW: My "Power meal" is consumed after the ride, and consists of Beer with a side of BBQ. I'll have a makeshift campsite set up somewhere where people can hang, but if anyone else is planning on doing some post ride partying we should all coordinate for drinking/bragging/picture sharing/drinking/drinking
Bostic
07-07-08, 02:50 PM
Bostic, you gonna ride it on your fixie?
No chance. I did just get a toupe for it though to replace the not that comfy alias. I'm bringing the Steel Fuso with a 50/34 setup. I haven't decided to go with 11-26 or 12-29 for the cassette.
I'm picking up the reg tonight after work and have booked a room at Motel 6 in S. Lake Tahoe.
No chance. I did just get a toupe for it though to replace the not that comfy alias. I'm bringing the Steel Fuso with a 50/34 setup. I haven't decided to go with 11-26 or 12-29 for the cassette.
I'm picking up the reg tonight after work and have booked a room at Motel 6 in S. Lake Tahoe.
reidconti
07-07-08, 03:20 PM
I'm down for a short party afterwards.
ckeizer77
07-07-08, 03:36 PM
I'm down for a short party afterwards.
Someone needs to plant a "Bike Forums" Flag at their location, then we can hold a meet up aftwards... Anyone willing to take on that incredible responsibility?
Someone needs to plant a "Bike Forums" Flag at their location, then we can hold a meet up aftwards... Anyone willing to take on that incredible responsibility?
bendor
07-07-08, 03:45 PM
I'm excited about my first attempt at the Death Ride! I have a hotel in S. Lake Tahoe (near the casinos), how much time should I account for the drive over to the start line? With 3k people, I can imagine parking and traffic becoming an issue, should I set aside about 40 minutes?
reidconti
07-07-08, 04:01 PM
I'm in Stateline and Google Earth says 60 minutes to go 30 miles. I figure it'll be 40 or less at 4am :) I don't know though. Seems wise to arrive before 5 if you want half decent parking. But I've never been.
I've got a Trek with yellow tires and I'll be wearing a yellow jersey.. say hi as you pass me ;)
I've got a Trek with yellow tires and I'll be wearing a yellow jersey.. say hi as you pass me ;)
jonathanb715
07-07-08, 04:39 PM
I'm excited about my first attempt at the Death Ride! I have a hotel in S. Lake Tahoe (near the casinos), how much time should I account for the drive over to the start line? With 3k people, I can imagine parking and traffic becoming an issue, should I set aside about 40 minutes?
If you're aiming to start a bit early it really wasn't a problem last year. We showed up a bit after 4, and parked right by Turtle Rock Park. I think most folks start at the official time.
JB
If you're aiming to start a bit early it really wasn't a problem last year. We showed up a bit after 4, and parked right by Turtle Rock Park. I think most folks start at the official time.
JB
gw_12
07-07-08, 06:25 PM
I've stayed in South Lake Tahoe, near Stateline, 3 of the 5 times I've done the DR. 45 minutes should be plenty of time to get over the hill to the start and park. Take Pioneer Trail to Meyers to avoid all the lights on 50. Just remember, the later you get there the further down the hill towards Woodsford you'll be parking.
Ritterview
07-07-08, 07:36 PM
Nutrition: I'm going to carry Hammer Gels, Bars and, Perpetium powder pre-measured to mix in one bottle and the other plain water. I also use Enduralytes since I don't like or can't stomach Gator or other 'aide drinks when they get warm.
jw
Make sure you can tolerate the Perpetuem. At Climb to Kaiser last week they were out of Heed at the Tollhouse stop, so I opted for Perpetuem. Big mistake. I was all gaseous, and bilious, I could tell it shut things down, I could sense all the unabsorbed liquid sloshing around in my stomach, which was just as I was about to go up Big Creek. Perpetuem has soy protein in it, which maybe you can tolerate, maybe you can't. I eventually recovered from the Perpetuem, but it took a toll on me in the middle of the ride.
I bonked and DNF'd on the Death Ride last year, I started cramping up going back up Monitor, and I just got worse and worse from there. I needed electrolytes, but there were none to be had at the rest stops, save for increasing dosage of Cytomax. At Kaiser, I brought my own Endurolytes, but they had them at the rest stops as well. I was able to finish respectably (13:25).
Fluids, nutrition and electrolytes are a big deal on rides like Kaiser or the Death Ride. Quality instruction is available for free from Hammer Nutrition's excellent .pdf, The Endurance Athlete's Guide to Success (http://www.hammernutrition.com/downloads/fuelinghandbook.pdf).
http://www.hammernutrition.net/ekmps/shops/shoptwo/resources/Image/The%20Endurance%20Athlete's%20GUIDE%20to%20SUCCESS(1).jpg
There is a lot that is correct in this helpful book, and I am unaware of anything that is wrong. Yeah, they shill their products some, but not too badly. Just watch out for the Perpetuem!
I remembered to register for the Death Ride on March 1, so I am out of luck. If anybody isn't going to use their ticket I'll pay the going rate!
jw
Make sure you can tolerate the Perpetuem. At Climb to Kaiser last week they were out of Heed at the Tollhouse stop, so I opted for Perpetuem. Big mistake. I was all gaseous, and bilious, I could tell it shut things down, I could sense all the unabsorbed liquid sloshing around in my stomach, which was just as I was about to go up Big Creek. Perpetuem has soy protein in it, which maybe you can tolerate, maybe you can't. I eventually recovered from the Perpetuem, but it took a toll on me in the middle of the ride.
I bonked and DNF'd on the Death Ride last year, I started cramping up going back up Monitor, and I just got worse and worse from there. I needed electrolytes, but there were none to be had at the rest stops, save for increasing dosage of Cytomax. At Kaiser, I brought my own Endurolytes, but they had them at the rest stops as well. I was able to finish respectably (13:25).
Fluids, nutrition and electrolytes are a big deal on rides like Kaiser or the Death Ride. Quality instruction is available for free from Hammer Nutrition's excellent .pdf, The Endurance Athlete's Guide to Success (http://www.hammernutrition.com/downloads/fuelinghandbook.pdf).
http://www.hammernutrition.net/ekmps/shops/shoptwo/resources/Image/The%20Endurance%20Athlete's%20GUIDE%20to%20SUCCESS(1).jpg
There is a lot that is correct in this helpful book, and I am unaware of anything that is wrong. Yeah, they shill their products some, but not too badly. Just watch out for the Perpetuem!
I remembered to register for the Death Ride on March 1, so I am out of luck. If anybody isn't going to use their ticket I'll pay the going rate!
ericm979
07-07-08, 08:59 PM
I've stayed in South Lake Tahoe, near Stateline, 3 of the 5 times I've done the DR. 45 minutes should be plenty of time to get over the hill to the start and park. Take Pioneer Trail to Meyers to avoid all the lights on 50. Just remember, the later you get there the further down the hill towards Woodsford you'll be parking.
Unless somenone in your car will be staying there, parking far away isn't that big a deal. It just means that you'll be riding
the last little bit of of the ride first instead of last.
Unless somenone in your car will be staying there, parking far away isn't that big a deal. It just means that you'll be riding
the last little bit of of the ride first instead of last.
reidconti
07-07-08, 09:28 PM
I'm actually coming from about a half mile up Kingsbury Grade in Stateline; Google Earth just suggests continuing up that way to Markleeville, looks a bit shorter than going around thru South Lake Tahoe.
Ritterview, interesting point. I just found some Accelerade on chainlove.com cheap, so I bought 2 jugs. It'll be here before the deathride and it sounded like a better idea than loading my bottles with Gatorade at the start. But now I'm thinking i should actually try it first. It has protein in it too, so I'll have to figure out what the protein is derived from. Should I be okay if I just try it out during my work day, or would I need to be riding to really know how it affects me?
Ritterview, interesting point. I just found some Accelerade on chainlove.com cheap, so I bought 2 jugs. It'll be here before the deathride and it sounded like a better idea than loading my bottles with Gatorade at the start. But now I'm thinking i should actually try it first. It has protein in it too, so I'll have to figure out what the protein is derived from. Should I be okay if I just try it out during my work day, or would I need to be riding to really know how it affects me?
jonathanb715
07-07-08, 10:20 PM
I'm actually coming from about a half mile up Kingsbury Grade in Stateline; Google Earth just suggests continuing up that way to Markleeville, looks a bit shorter than going around thru South Lake Tahoe.
Ritterview, interesting point. I just found some Accelerade on chainlove.com cheap, so I bought 2 jugs. It'll be here before the deathride and it sounded like a better idea than loading my bottles with Gatorade at the start. But now I'm thinking i should actually try it first. It has protein in it too, so I'll have to figure out what the protein is derived from. Should I be okay if I just try it out during my work day, or would I need to be riding to really know how it affects me?
Boy, I wouldn't want to be trying new stuff just before (or during) an event! The Accelerade might be fine for you, but if it's not.....
My recommendation would be to stick with whatever worked for you during your training.
JB
Ritterview, interesting point. I just found some Accelerade on chainlove.com cheap, so I bought 2 jugs. It'll be here before the deathride and it sounded like a better idea than loading my bottles with Gatorade at the start. But now I'm thinking i should actually try it first. It has protein in it too, so I'll have to figure out what the protein is derived from. Should I be okay if I just try it out during my work day, or would I need to be riding to really know how it affects me?
Boy, I wouldn't want to be trying new stuff just before (or during) an event! The Accelerade might be fine for you, but if it's not.....
My recommendation would be to stick with whatever worked for you during your training.
JB
reidconti
07-07-08, 10:35 PM
I prefer to rely on my stupidity and inexperience! But seriously, I've never had a problem in the past trying new stuff, and my body doesn't tend to complain about whatever I throw at it. So it just hadn't even crossed my mind that it could possibly be a bad idea. Will have to reconsider that.
Unfortunately I don't really have a "strategy" other than gatorade, water, and hammer gel. So it would be nice to get some protein in the mix.
Unfortunately I don't really have a "strategy" other than gatorade, water, and hammer gel. So it would be nice to get some protein in the mix.
Bostic
07-07-08, 10:41 PM
I always start my ride with a Starbucks Frappuccino. Guess that's not gonna happen on Saturday.
BlastRadius
07-07-08, 10:46 PM
I always start my ride with a Starbucks Frappuccino. Guess that's not gonna happen on Saturday.
Aha! That's Ramon's climb-like-a-billy-goat secret!
Aha! That's Ramon's climb-like-a-billy-goat secret!
gpelpel
07-07-08, 11:26 PM
I'm actually coming from about a half mile up Kingsbury Grade in Stateline; Google Earth just suggests continuing up that way to Markleeville, looks a bit shorter than going around thru South Lake Tahoe.
Ritterview, interesting point. I just found some Accelerade on chainlove.com cheap, so I bought 2 jugs. It'll be here before the deathride and it sounded like a better idea than loading my bottles with Gatorade at the start. But now I'm thinking i should actually try it first. It has protein in it too, so I'll have to figure out what the protein is derived from. Should I be okay if I just try it out during my work day, or would I need to be riding to really know how it affects me?
I used to drink Powerbar Endurance for the last 3 years and switched to Accelerade just before the Sequoia Century last month. I chose the Mountain Berry flavor because the only other flavor Performance had was Tropical Fruit which I usually associate with sugary chemical taste. Immediate results were that for the first time during a century I didn't have any stomach ache and any cramps. So I just bought a second jar and will stick to it during the DR. I will also add Zym tablets to my 'plain' water bottle and have a bag of Endurolytes.
Ritterview, interesting point. I just found some Accelerade on chainlove.com cheap, so I bought 2 jugs. It'll be here before the deathride and it sounded like a better idea than loading my bottles with Gatorade at the start. But now I'm thinking i should actually try it first. It has protein in it too, so I'll have to figure out what the protein is derived from. Should I be okay if I just try it out during my work day, or would I need to be riding to really know how it affects me?
I used to drink Powerbar Endurance for the last 3 years and switched to Accelerade just before the Sequoia Century last month. I chose the Mountain Berry flavor because the only other flavor Performance had was Tropical Fruit which I usually associate with sugary chemical taste. Immediate results were that for the first time during a century I didn't have any stomach ache and any cramps. So I just bought a second jar and will stick to it during the DR. I will also add Zym tablets to my 'plain' water bottle and have a bag of Endurolytes.
gpelpel
07-07-08, 11:29 PM
I always start my ride with a Starbucks Frappuccino. Guess that's not gonna happen on Saturday.
Looking forward to seeing you at the DR Ramon. I am sure there won't be any Starbucks in Markleeville but you might have some luck in South Tahoe, although may be not at 4am.
Looking forward to seeing you at the DR Ramon. I am sure there won't be any Starbucks in Markleeville but you might have some luck in South Tahoe, although may be not at 4am.
trinerd47
07-08-08, 12:05 AM
This might be a dumb question, but for you DR vets out there...have any of you just slept in your car the night before, parking somewhere near Turtle Rock Park? Just wondering if it's common/doable/not illegal.
Ritterview
07-08-08, 12:24 AM
This might be a dumb question, but for you DR vets out there...have any of you just slept in your car the night before, parking somewhere near Turtle Rock Park? Just wondering if it's common/doable/not illegal.
That's what I did last year, I arrived about midnight and parked on the road, which was real handy as I could easily access my car on the way back. I slept in my Honda Odyssey, which allowed privacy and I could stretch out. If I manage to snag a ticket, that is what I'll do again. Only it would be good to arrive earlier than what I did and to register up before the desk closes.
That's what I did last year, I arrived about midnight and parked on the road, which was real handy as I could easily access my car on the way back. I slept in my Honda Odyssey, which allowed privacy and I could stretch out. If I manage to snag a ticket, that is what I'll do again. Only it would be good to arrive earlier than what I did and to register up before the desk closes.
reidconti
07-08-08, 07:40 AM
Shoot, forecast is up to 92 degrees for sat, from a predicted 79 last week. Temps should peak at 97 thurs, hopefully that doesn't materialize and they have to revise it downward.
Good reason to start early... at least it's cool in the morning, I hate riding when it's already 70 before 7am.
Good reason to start early... at least it's cool in the morning, I hate riding when it's already 70 before 7am.
jonathanb715
07-08-08, 09:32 AM
Shoot, forecast is up to 92 degrees for sat, from a predicted 79 last week. Temps should peak at 97 thurs, hopefully that doesn't materialize and they have to revise it downward.
Good reason to start early... at least it's cool in the morning, I hate riding when it's already 70 before 7am.
The temperature is only supposed to go down to the high 50's overnight - last year was in the 40's overnight - I guess the good news is I won't have so many layers to deal with as it warms up.
JB
Good reason to start early... at least it's cool in the morning, I hate riding when it's already 70 before 7am.
The temperature is only supposed to go down to the high 50's overnight - last year was in the 40's overnight - I guess the good news is I won't have so many layers to deal with as it warms up.
JB
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