Mt. Greylock Challenge 9/24/11

[BigDaddyPete]

Hey all,
I just signed up for this ride and wondered if anyone here had done it in the past? This is the MS Society ride in September, not the Greylock Century that's coming up this Saturday. I can't find a route map anywhere and am slightly curious what I've gotten into. Anyone have some info for me?
Thanks.

[shovelhd]

I will be doing this charity ride myself. The ride profile is in my signature. Basically, it's rollers for 28 miles until you hit Greylock, which is about a 9 mile 6% climb. After that it's more rollers with several 1.0-1.5 mile climbs along the way. Not your typical century.

[IchbinJay]

Good luck! All I know is that Mt. Greylock is the highest point in Massachusetts. I saw this ride posted on BikeReg and am a bit envious of anyone that can do it. Someday I'd love to do it. I have a few customers who've done similar rides and they usually get a wider range rear cassette for the climbs.

[shovelhd]

Should be no problem with a 39/53 and an 11/25 but I may carry a 12/27 just in case. My biggest concern is getting a good start around riders I can trust.

[IchbinJay]

Yeah, definitely. Climbing is all about pacing. If you can, find someone who knows landmarks. These can help determine when to push it and when to hold back. Sometimes looking at the road can be deceiving, especially around corners.