Hell of Hunterdon 3-22-14
Who is in for the HOH? I've never done it before and had some questions. I know road bike with 25mm tires some gravel sections and hills. They say it's not a race but I assume a lot of roadies with lots of caffeine. How does this differ from the century type rides I've done? Any other tips?
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It was a challenge for me last year going into it with about a month of outside riding in the flat land. I was with some roadies who didn't want to finish the race and bailed on the 2nd stop and they just stopped to much for my liking.
This year I was not able to get in since it sold out so fast.
Lastly, use tire liners too.
Pacing can be aggressive if trying to hang on to groups but you don't have to do that, you can just ride your own pace. This ride is more fun with a group though.
Weather can be a factor. Two years ago it rained all day with temp averages in the high 30's.
The gravel sections can be technical especially if wet. There is also a bridge crossing that is across a metal grate bridge that got sketchy when wet but last year it was fine, so again weather is important.
Bring some tubes, they have sag support but you could be waiting for a while so stay self supported.
It's a challenging great ride, you will have a blast.
Post here or pm me if you have other questions.
I usually try to hang onto the front group (who treat it like a race) as long as I can. Once I eventually get dropped on some climb, I rest a little while cruising along until the leaders of the second wave catch me, then I hold on to them until I get dropped. Lather, rinse, repeat. There are a lot of little groups that form and reform. Some are just making a chill ride of it and others race up every hill. Usually "most" groups will stop at the aid stations to take a leak, and get refill the bottles and grab something quick to eat then everyone will head off together again after like 5 mins.
It's fun to go with people you know, but every yr I have done it I had good intentions to ride with my friends. We got separated within the first 15 mins and met for beers 4 hours later. Ask away if you want any other specific details.
I'll be doing it again this yr, probably wearing my EN bike kit.