Long Distance Competition/Ultracycling, Randonneuring and Endurance Cycling - Need Advice for Last-Minute Ride

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Bryce88
12-24-08, 09:37 PM
Hi everyone!

I'm a college student at Virginia Tech and am new to the forums here. My friend has proposed to me to do a ~300 mile ride across Virginia in a couple of weeks with me over the span of about a week, stopping at various points to give presentations about two upcoming environmental events to college students.

I have several concerns regarding this trip: I'm inexperienced at such long distances, I have a mountain bike (Fuji Nevada 4.0 (http://www.bikepedia.com/QuickBike/BikeSpecs.aspx?Year=2006&Brand=Fuji&Model=Nevada+4.0&Type=bike), 2006), I'm not 100% sure what clothing and supplies I should bring, and we'll be making the trip during the winter. Supposedly we'll have places inside to stay, though did I mention the trip is coming up in a few weeks if I go?

I am really excited about the opportunity and want to take advantage of it, but I don't know if it's really wise for me to jump on board considering the time of year and inexperience. Do you have any opinions or advice?

10 Wheels
12-24-08, 09:38 PM
Do it. You will be experienced when you get back.
Yan
12-25-08, 02:15 PM
300 miles in a week is only 43 miles a day. That's a piece of cake on any bicycle. Go for it.

Search the touring forum for what to bring.

Machka
12-25-08, 02:32 PM
Here's a possible packing list: http://www.machka.net/packinglist.htm

And since this is a tour you're talking about, check the Touring forum. :)
chewybrian
12-25-08, 05:52 PM
The distance should pose no problem if you take it easy. I would take a couple pair of seal skin socks, if you have them, or can afford to buy them. If it's slushy and cold, you'll really be glad to have them. Some athletic tape can help your feet survive in case you get blisters. And dollar store foot powder can help seat contact issues (use to prevent, not cure). It will help your feet feel fresh, too. And Ziplocs--everything in freezer bags in case of snow/slush/rain. You should bring some of those chemical hand/toe warmers, too--pretty cheap at any sporting goods/hunting store. Have fun.