Ride the Rockies: A bike tour I’d love to repeat

In February 2016, I won a slot for participation in a multiday bike tour called Ride the Rockies. Now, one year on, I’d love to repeat the tour.

Today I would like to share my experience and recommend taking part in this year’s event.

Registration starts on February 5th and is open until February 26th on www.ridetherockies.com. Do not miss the opportunity!

This bike tour has been held in June for 30 years in the USA’s prettiest state, Colorado. Almost 2000 people take part in this event.

Colorado is so beautiful in the summer! In fact, it is considered to be the “American Switzerland”. The snow-covered tops of the mountains and crystal-clear lakes mesmerize everyone. If you adore cycling, nature, mountains, and fresh air, this place is for you!

There are no medals and no time tracking during Ride the Rockies. If you enjoy overcoming pain—like serious cyclists and triathletes—this is not for you. You can ride at any tempo. Moreover, you can partake in downhill racing or power climbs, or just cycle for your own amusement.

Here you will find a variety of participants: from professional sportsmen to senior citizens, and children on mountain bikes. A great diversity of rivals—or just traveling companions—is ensured.

The event planners make some minor changes to the route every year, but the essential principles remain the same:

• 2000 participants
• 6 days
• No time tracking
• Daily start is from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m. and finish is before sunset :)
• General route length is 650 km The highest peak is almost 4 km
• All potholes, pits, cracks on the road are marked with an orange color!!!
• A gravel road is an obligatory part of the tour
• There are stations with food and water every 20–30 km Daily route is 70–150 km
• Almost 2500 m is the maximum daily climb... Phew!
• The maximum downhill is 75 km! Burn the rubber!

Official escort cars constantly follow you on the road. They will pick you up if you are tired or your bike is broken.

Volunteers with flags stand along the route and show you where you have to turn. It is impossible to lose your way! Besides, police mounted on motorbikes provide security and maintain order along the track.

At the start, the city roads are blocked but the highway is always open for traffic. Nevertheless, the drivers are extremely polite, always keep a safe distance and do not impede you.

... to be continued...
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