Get Your Guts In Gear

Ride FAQs

The Ride

What is the route like?

All 3 routes are scenic and challenging, and none of them are flat. You will need to train to complete this event. But we know you’re up for it!

I am a novice and have not ridden a bike since I was a little kid. Can I do this?

With proper training and a properly fitted and tuned-up bicycle, you can complete the Ride. We encourage new riders to register, train for, and complete this event. All registered participants will be given training materials prepared for this Ride by a USA Cycling-licensed expert coach. Our staff and volunteers will also keep in touch with you about your training. Visit our Training page.

What if I can't keep up?

This is not a race! We understand that there will be a range in people's cycling abilities. There will always be an event vehicle at the back of the group to ensure that you are not left behind. Also, we encourage faster cyclists to take their time and enjoy the company of their fellow cyclists. Each rider needs to train to ride over rolling terrain with some longer hills at a minimum average speed of 12 mph.

Can I do a relay with other people?

We do not have relay teams. This Ride is about reaching beyond what you think your limits are. MANY first-time riders or cyclists who had never ridden more than 20 miles before have trained for and completed this Ride. YOU CAN, TOO!

Our Rides are 100% supported. You can read more below about the support we provide or contact us to get more details.

What kind of bicycle do I need?

Any type of quality bicycle that fits you properly will be fine. Before undertaking any type of training on a new (or new-to-you) bicycle, make sure that it has been serviced by a reputable bicycle mechanic.

Will the roads be closed?

No. While we make every effort to map a route that minimizes traffic, we will be sharing the road with other vehicles.

Do I need to wear a helmet?

Yes! Safety is our #1 priority. All riders must wear a properly fitted cycling helmet (approved by SNELL, ANSI, ASTM, or CPSC) at all times while on their bicycles.

Am I on my own when on the road?

Not at all—we’re with you all along the route. Rest stops are placed every 12 to 16 miles along the route and provide water, sports drinks, snacks, and toilets. Sweep vans drive along the route to support cyclists in between rest stops.

We also transport your gear bag and tent between camps while you’re out on the road riding, so you don’t have to worry about hauling it.

What sort of lodging does the Ride provide?

The Ride provides lodging on June 11 and 12 on the New York Ride, on August 6 and 7 on the Seattle Ride, and on October 1 and 2 on the Midwest Ride. We will be camping at private camping areas. If you cannot provide your own tent, you can rent one from us for the weekend. Hot showers and complete meals will be provided at each campsite.

Riders and crew must make their own transportation arrangements to get to the check-in and opening sites, and from the closing site.

How do I get to the start? What about my bike?

Riders and crew must make their own transportation arrangements to get the check-in and opening sites, and from the closing site. We can help you with these logistics. If you are unable to travel with your bike, GYGIG will also pre-arrange bike shipping services at the most reasonable fee that we can negotiate.

I don't want to camp. Are there hotels nearby?

Even avowed non-campers have truly enjoyed the camaraderie found at GYGIG’s camps. However, if you arrange for local taxi transport to and from local hotels, Riders may stay offsite. All crew members MUST camp with the group.

I'm crewing; can I drive my own car?

Probably! Due to space restrictions at some of our sites, we have room for a specified number of personally owned vehicles to be used for specific crew assignments. Once those crew positions are filled, we will not be able to accommodate additional personal vehicles.

Someone I know is riding, and I want to camp out with him/her. Can I do this?

Only registered riders and crew are able to stay overnight at camp. If you are interested in sharing this experience with a rider but don’t ride yourself, then consider registering for the all-volunteer crew. Please be advised that our crew slots fill up quickly. It is not unusual for crew slots to be filled more than 2 months before a ride takes place.

I want to follow a rider along the route in my car. Can I get route maps?

We have always asked that family and friends not follow along the route behind a rider, as this adds another element of traffic to the route, and makes it more difficult for us to support the riders. The best way to experience this Ride with your family and friends who are riding is to join the crew. Our crew keeps coming back because they find their Ride experience every bit as empowering as the riders do.

General maps showing the areas we will visit:

• View and Download New York Ride Map
• View and Download Seattle Ride Map

If you don’t want to crew, we will let you know the location of particular cheering spots each day, or you can volunteer as a day volunteer at a rest stop. We choose these locations based on the availability of parking and the overall safety of the riders.