CTR 2012 Planning

[joeydurango]

I think a lot of it depends on the pace too... if you're moving 19-22 hours a day physical damage will add up pretty fast with almost no recovery time.  I'm not saying anything about finish times other than the pace you're aiming for, mtnbound, can somewhat dictate the amount of pain you can expect.  I'm thinking about touring the CT rather than racing this year, and I wouldn't anticipate any physical issues at a touring pace.

Wool socks are definitely a good call!

[mtnbound]

Joeydurango, thanks for your input.  I want to stay as dry and warm to the extent reasonably possible under the conditions.  I think that will help my physical pain issues.  If I can reduce chafing/sores from wet clothing/gloves/shoes, all the better.  My expected pace is probably around 14-16 hrs/day, though that may drastically change come game time.  My pace will likely be closer to tour pace even though I am "racing" but since I am a newb, I don't know what to expect as far as physical/pain issues. 

I appreciate everyone's suggestions and input!  Looking forward to a great CTR!  The potential for a very dry year may affect people's plans.  With so much of Colorado under drought (though it is only April and much can change in the next few months), water sources may be fewer and farther between, requiring more planning and water storage.

[Woodland]

Guys, check these out...I was going to get a pair and test them out over the summer. Reviews on the site are not great...but at 12 bucks worth a try.
http://www.motorcycle-superstore.com/1/1/41/28891/ITEM/MotoCentric-Overtrek-Gloves.aspx

[joeydurango]

Yeah, that's kind of what I modeled my homemade GoreTex lobster mitts after.  I cut my finger notches a little deeper - more individual control - and made them 1/3 finger instead of 2/2, because I brake with one finger.  I think they work great!

[bartspedden]

Yeah, that's kind of what I modeled my homemade GoreTex lobster mitts after.  I cut my finger notches a little deeper - more individual control - and made them 1/3 finger instead of 2/2, because I brake with one finger.  I think they work great!

Brilliant! I'm gonna see if my wife can make a pair!

[mtnbound]

Great stuff!  Maybe I can get those lobster gloves from the moto store and use the waterproofing stuff mentioned in the mtbr forum. I would make them myself but, doh, I am not good at that type of thing.

http://forums.mtbr.com/bikepacking-bike-expedition/waterproofing-your-fabric-779533.html

[JReeves]

Just wanted to chime in and again thank everyone for the input.  This will be my first year giving the CTR a go, and reading everyone else's experiences really helps cover all the bases that can be covered...  I haven't been on the forum much as of late, but I've been on the bike a bunch, and not a day goes by that I don't have CTR thoughts rattling around in the back of my head. 

[Boney]

My vacation request was approved yesterday and I bought my ticket to Denver, so I guess I'm doing this! I'm unfamiliar with the city and am on my own for lodging/transportation prior to the race, so what do people suggest? I assume that people stay in Littleton, but anywhere in particular? Also, if any racers in the same boat are interested in splitting a hotel room or something, hit me up.

[bartspedden]

In the past couple of years some out of town racers have camped at/near the trailhead for the start of the race.  With Waterton Canyon being open this year you can still do this but you have to ride a little bit up through the canyon past Strontia Springs since they don't allow camping in the canyon. Also, there's an excellent bike path along C-470 so that opens up almost any hotel along C-470.  You can also camp at Bear Creek Lake Park (http://www.ci.lakewood.co.us/Community_Resources/Parks,_Forestry_and_Open_Space/Bear_Creek_Lake_Park/Park_Activities/Camping.aspx)

[sanjuanrider]

I currently have 2 to 3 racers staying at my house the night before the race.  Plenty of floor space and cots if anyone else needs a place to crash. The trailhead is a quick 20 minute, mostly flat, paved ride. I can also drive people over to the start. If anyone is interested just PM me and I can get more details (logistics from airport, bike shops nearby, food supply nearby).

[Done]

Especially for out-of-country types, Andy's (sanjuanrider) offer is HUGE. He finished the ride in 2010, and knows the Colorado mountains extremely well. He'll send you on your way with a big smile, and a heap of wisdom. Just don't sleep anywhere within earshot of him--he snores like a freight train.

[Boney]

Sanjuanrider, I just sent you a PM.

Thanks for the info bartspedden and Toby!

[gregclimbs]

all this AZT action makes me realize we are 15 weeks away...

getting excited.  are you?

[mikepro]

getting excited.  are you?

More than words can say!

[tetontodd]

25 weeks? 105 days if you're lining up for the group start! I think that's 15 weeks
I know cause I'm chomping at the bit right now. Seeing the guys and gals crushing the AZT leaves me feeling a little left out. That's why I'm heading to Fruita on Thursday for a 4/20 start on the kokopelli!! It's been a long winter in Jackson, can't wait to hit some dirt!

[gregclimbs]

please excuse my fat fingers

[mtbcast]

I plan to provide call support so if you're riding please feel free to call in to MTBCast. I hope to be there at the start but cannot promise.

[Done]

I plan to provide call support so if you're riding please feel free to call in to MTBCast. I hope to be there at the start but cannot promise.

Awesome, thank you! MTBCast is such a great way for riders to keep their friends and family updated. Plus, it's fun to go back and listen to everyone's call-ins when the race is finished.

[Yogi the Barry]

And, I think, the MTBCast number is:
888-866-4491

I plan to provide call support so if you're riding please feel free to call in to MTBCast. I hope to be there at the start but cannot promise.

[mtbcast]

That's it! Sorry, I could have posted that, eh?