Solvang Century rookie

CannonChick

Hi everyone...
I just signed up for my first group ride, the Solvang 1/2 century. Since I have never been to one of these things, I was wondering if i could get some info/advice.
When they start the ride, do they start in any particular order? Reason being, I'm going with a friend who can't repair her own flats...lol... so I want to make sure I can be nearby.
If anyone has done this particular ride, what kind of hills are there?
Any info is greatly appreciated.
I'm very excited, it's cool having a goal to work towards!
thanks!

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CannonChick
'06 Cannondale Six13
'05 Quintana Roo Lucero

Do or do not, there is no try.

gruppo

I assume you are aware of this site?

http://www.bikescor.com/solvang/welcome.htm

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CannonChick

yeah, that's the site I signed up on. They really dont say much about the course for the 1/2 century, though.

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CannonChick
'06 Cannondale Six13
'05 Quintana Roo Lucero

Do or do not, there is no try.

ltmark

I am new to this forum and back into cycling after 15 years and a recent retirement. I'm doing the Las Vegas Century in two weeks. I rode the Solvang in the mid 80's - one of the worst experiences I've ever had, but just because of the weather. It poured and hailed all day...but I still enjoyed it. Sounds like you're doing the prep ride in Nov. The final century is March 12 '05, which I am also doing.

You will enjoy it. One of the best things about the Solvang ride is there is about a two hour window (or More) where you can start. I would leave as early as you can, usually around 0630 or so. That way, if you are slower than some, you can still take your time and finish before they close the course. You will have plenty of time since it's just a half century! Yes, you can ride as leisurely as you want, go with your friend and have a nice time. The country is very pretty and they usually have several THOUSAND riders show up!

I have never ridden they're half century, but I imagine that the last 1/4 of the 1/2 century will be the same as the full century; if so, there will be a pretty tuff hill toward the last 10 miles. I knowthe full century turned out to be 107 miles, so plan on maybe a little more than 50! If you are better than average riders, just do what you do. If you are somewhat new, TAKE YOUR TIME when you start. Don't go crazy and keep a solid pace for your level, whatever that may be.

Stop at the rest stops, take on some food and drink lots of water! It will be cold in the morning when you start, so wear some type of light jacket and warm up good/slow as you start. It MAY warm up, so make sure you can shed gear if necessary! If you enjoy it, think about the full century in March!

They typically have around 4-6000 riders. Good luck

CannonChick

Thanks for the info. I would love to do the prelude in Nov, but can't due to work. I am signed up for the actual Solvang century in March, but I'm starting to prepare now since I have about 10-15 lbs to lose and some stamina to gain!

I think the 1/2 century is going to be about 60 miles, with the century at 104 miles this year. Looks like I'll have plenty of company!
thanks again!

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CannonChick
'06 Cannondale Six13
'05 Quintana Roo Lucero

Do or do not, there is no try.

awiner

The century rotue does indeed have a nice climb near the end. Looks like the first 25 miles are on a downhill incline however with a few small peaks.

No half century route is shown as noted. Maybe they will put the half century route up eventually as I would be interested in seeing it.

kiki dodson

Hey CannonChick...I too will be riding the solvang (as part of the "Team in Training" for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society). This is my first attempt at a century, and thought the "Team in Training" sounded perfect for me, as they provide personalized coaching, group training, trans and lodging, etc. I have been riding only since april....the longest ride close to 60 (Napa-Sonoma-Napa). And yes, it is great to have this as a goal...I AM STOKED!! I found info on the computer...type in Solvang Century (I know..duh) Hope this helped...keep rolling!

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Kiki

SadieKate

I haven't done this ride, but it gets rave reviews. Your question about the start: usually, there is a window during which you must start. It is up to each rider to decide when they want to start, but the organizers will close down the rest stops as the day goes by so you need to take a best estimate on your riding speed and work backwards. Plus, factor in the weather. If it is going to be hot, start earlier to not only avoid the heat but to also allow you to ride more slowly. A hot day is not the time to try for personal bests!

Regarding the flats, if you don't know how to change a flat, make sure you have a friend like you who will provide a helping hand (check to be sure she at least carries her own tube and patch kit). However, these rides will also have SAG wagons. They'll stop and provide assistance with flats, mechanicals, water, rides, etc. It is also not uncommon for a bike shop to have someone at the rest stops to provide assistance. I slashed a tire beyond repair at the Cinderella this year and was able to buy a tire at the next rest stop. I could have been out of the ride only 15 miles into it. It doesn't hurt to carry some extra cash for emergencies.

Go ride and have fun. Then, when you get back, teach your friend to repair a flat!

dieken

Hey CannonChick, how did the Solvang Prelude 1/2 Century ride go? I havent ridden in a loongg time and just got back on my bike this past week but I about to sign up for the Century in March all the same. Maybe I will see you on the road. I live in Santa Clarita and I am sure I will be doing some rides to Acton and further..anyway..have a good day and don't forget to tell us how the Prelude went.