Originally Posted by Pamestique

I do Upper Sart (from Hidden Valley) on a regular basis. The total distance, round trip is 40 miles. Basically it's slightly uphill all the way to Waterman Ave, but thankfully slightly downhill all the way back. And since it's out and back; you an always turn around when starting to drag and feeling tired.

Some good news... you are never far from "civilization" and if need be you can get off the SART, in places to find food and water. There are several parks along the way to fill up water bottles or rest. I don't usually ride SART in the summer (too hot for me); I wait for fall, winter and spring, so generally don't have any problems carrying water. I use a camelback and I will generally ride with at least 50 oz to start. As to snacks, I make sure I have a good breakfast (usually PB toast and a nutrishake) and then I carry beans or Shokbloc and maybe an energy bar.

I know the "climb" you mentioned... a long time ago a good friend gave me the best advice ever... "rest" riding up hills. I used to think I had to attack every hill and I would run out of energy before I got to the top. Now, knowing my limitations, I just put the gearing down low, and start spinning, trying to find a even, steady cadence and keep my breathing down low. You will be surprised what you can climb when you "rest" up hills!

Almost all of the issues you had concerns about are things you will gain experience with over time. Do the USart a few times and you will know the whoop-de-dos and hills, sandy spots etc and you can plan accordingly.

I have ridden the USart on both by road bike (with 25cm tires) and my mountain bike. I am more comfortable on the MTBike because of the uneven road surface but have had no problems on the road bike doing any part of it including riding through dirt. Road bikes do fine going through some dirt and sand, just remember you need some speed to power through the obstacles.

Have fun, one of my favorite places to ride, especially now through the fall and winter!