Hiya! Here's some random thoughts. Be sure to check out the BV facebook page.

This will be my third year. I've had a great time, and look forward to it all winter. This year's route looks like it should be a lot of fun, with plenty of hills for those who want them.

I'm lazy, so I used the sherpa service to set up the tents and for the other services, but plenty of people enjoy using their own tents. Truthfully, sleeping in the gym doesn't seem like a bad way to go, as long as you aren't bothered by the inevitable noise. I use ear plugs, even in the tent, so that wouldn't be an issue for me.

I get the breakfast plan, but didn't bother with the evening meal plan last year, and won't this year. The meals have been only OK, like cafeteria food. I'd rather hit up the local restaurants.

The routes can be crowded, and there's a wide variation in riding skills. Some people seem to think the roads are closed to traffic and do a lot of sloppy and stupid things, like wobbling into traffic and riding 3 or 4 abreast. Don't do that crap

I always leave too early in the morning. My resolution this year is to wait an extra half an hour or so. Last year I got to some of the rest stops, and even one of the lunch stops before they were open.

BV doesn't use cue sheets. They have a nice brochure that describes the day's routes, but you can't really use it on the road for navigation. Instead you need to follow the roadside markers. Watch for them! Last year my "century ride" turned into a 112-mile effort thanks to a missed turn. (I wasn't the only one.) The optional segments are in different colors, so it's a good idea to pre-plan the day's ride in your mind the night before.

These kinds of large-group events aren't for everybody, but it's perfect for me. I get to take some time to just ride, and not worry about carrying too much stuff around, or finding hotels, or driving long distances etc.

Hope you can make it! I think they only have about 100 or so more spots available and registration closes on June 6.