Rocky Butte For Novice Hill Climbers

We had such a good time climbing Mt. Tabor last week, so let's do Rocky Butte this week. Slow hill climbers are welcome on this ride. This ride is either a nice midweek stretch for some or if you're a novice hill climber it is an opportunity to work on hills without feeling frustrated or rushed. The ride leaders are slow hill climbers, trying to get stronger, not faster. We will be regrouping along the way.

We will make our way from NW Portland to NE, up Rocky Butte and back down. We will travel generally on quiet, low-traffic streets. We'll take our time, enjoy whatever weather we get and get a bit of a climb in.

This ride will be at a relaxed pace. No one will be left behind.

Time: We'll meet at 8:45 for introductions and instructions. Wheels rolling at 9 AM sharp. If you have to cancel at the last minute please call or text Ross at 503-267-8895 or Joan at 503-915-3283 to let us know.

Parking: Parking is tricky in NW on weekday mornings so if public transit is an option you might want to take it. Otherwise, give yourself a bit of time to look for parking.

Pace: 13-15 mph on the flats; as slow as you need to on the climb - No one gets dropped.

Distance: Approx. 22 miles

Hills: Except for Rocky Butte, there are no hills to speak of. Everyone will make the climb up Rocky Butte at their own comfortable pace. If you are slow, that's okay and we will wait as long as it takes for everyone.

Attitude: Relaxed and social; regrouping along the way.

Traffic: City streets with normal traffic.

Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/2589311#

Weather Cancellation Policy: Unlikely but brutal cold, soupy fog or sideways rain will cancel.

Mandatory for all riders.

Helmets must be worn at all times while riding. This is a requirement and not a request.

Obey traffic laws and remember you’re a representative of the greater cycling community and should conduct yourself that way on the road. Please represent us well.

Always bring plenty of water, snacks for energy, a flat repair kit, including a spare tube. A tool kit and small pump is good, but if you don’t have one there is usually someone on a group ride who does. Bring along cash or credit card in the event that we stop for coffee along the way and/or if you want to join us for lunch and conversation at the end of the ride.

All riders must have their bikes in good working order and must bring a flat kit & spare tube on all rides. If there is an issue with proper working or lack of equipment you may be asked to sit the ride out. Please ask for help if you are ill equipped prior to the ride. We will try to help!

All riders must be able to change a flat should they have one or have a way to get picked up (AAA, a friend…). There is often but not always someone on the ride who knows how to help you change your tire so plan accordingly.