Bethesda Loop (again): three distance/pace options

The goal is to offer variations of the same general route to accommodate a variety of participants and fitness levels. Participants should take care to select the distance and pace that fits them best (see below). Each variation's group leader will maintain a prescribed pace to make riding as a group easier. Only the 28 mile route is a "no-drop" route. Participants are encouraged to switch pace groups at the rest stop if they have trouble keeping pace with the 35 or 41 mile route. With a bit of luck, we will all start and finish about the same time, making post-ride socializing easier.

41 miles w/ 2,300 feet (https://www.strava.com/routes/9630268) at 17 mph
35 miles w/ 1,900 feet (https://www.strava.com/routes/9630014) at 15 mph
28 miles w/ 1,500 feet (https://www.strava.com/routes/6438731) at 13 mph

Paper cue sheets will NOT be distributed at the ride start. Printable cue sheets, GPX, and TCX downloads are online at the links above.

The ride will start at 9:00 AM sharp. Plan to arrive no later than 8:45 AM for sign-in and ride briefing. All three pace groups should finish about noon.

Rest Stop: Starbucks (about 10 miles after the start) has restrooms, and is located in a shopping plaza with other shops, etc. It is also a good place for participants to switch pace groups.

Optional Rest Stop: Sligo Creek golf course (near mile 25) has restrooms as well as snacks.

Participation requires a completed liability waiver (collected at ride start) and proper use of a helmet. In addition to a safe and ride-ready bike, also bring water, food, at least one spare inner tube, and the means to inflate it; a bike lock is recommended. The ride will be cancelled if, two hours before the ride’s start time, either of the following are predicted to occur during the ride according to the Weather Underground's Washington National Airport (KDCA) weather station; (a) greater than 30% chance of rain or (b) temperatures above 90ºF or below 40°F.