I am riding on the 4th and 5th days only. I realize there is no official starting time, but I would like to know if there is a time when most riders start out. I have been to the CNC Spring Retreats, but I usually have my whole family riding with me there. I want to make sure that I don't end up riding alone ......So, what time should I plan to be at the start ready to ride?
That is about the time you hear the first rustling about of folks like heavy squirrels. Zippers, whooshing of nylon, people tripping over your tent ropes, etc. Or if indoors, doors banging etc.I am always amazed to see people heading out on the road in the dark before sun up. Shoot for a 7:15-7:30 start time and all should be well.
Another reason to be in the pamper zone if you can manage it. Bubba and his able crew take away the hassle by striking the tents for you. He'll even send you on your way with some Zydeco.
Regardless, "most" are gone by 8. I've been on many of these state rides (~10) and I never understand the hurry. Be safe and let the sun come up, out of drivers' eyes.
Wow, why so early ? The rides aren't that long each day, what the heck's the hurry ? Sleep a little, let it warm up, have some coffe and hit the road. That's my plan ( besides camping near Bubbatown, I wanna catch the zydeco in the am !)
You need to have your bags on the truck by 8:30, sometimes we don't leave until after 9:00. You just need to leave in time that you can catch and speak to Roland Gudiz someplace along the route. If you miss him you have truely missed a Great Person.
Not sure why everyone wants to ride so early...but i am with anyone if they want to start riding a bit later...don't mind getting up early but there is no rush, the rides aren't long and then you are hanging out at camp all aft/evening...
The rides may not be that long for some riders, but they will certainly test the upper end of my abilities. I rode a 64 mile ride last October and it took nearly 6 hours with 2 short stops. At the second stop, the volunteers said that the first folks through happened a couple of hours earlier and they didn't even stop. I'm better trained this time around, but I don't expect great improvement in my overall time. I plan to start not too long after the sun is up.