FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions
The Hell of Hunterdon is a challenging RIDE. The roads are open to traffic and there are no prizes for finishing order. The event is a hybrid between a brevet (where riders must be self sufficient) and a cyclosportive (a challenging supported ride). Participants should obey all traffic rules and are responsible for their own safety.
Will we be riding as a group?
That is entirely up to the participants. We will have cue sheets and road markings, so those who want to ride at their own pace, can. While there will be a mass start, we expect there to be several groups that form quickly on the road, based upon rider fitness and skills. We suggest you ride in a manner that is most comfortable and safe for you.
What type of support does the ride offer?
There will be marked roads, cue sheets will be available, there will be 1 staffed & stocked classic feed zone, there will be a post-ride party, and there will be a broom wagon.
What does “Minimal Road Markings” mean?
The turns will be marked with either a paint mark on the road, or a sign where paint can't be used, depending on the circumstances. The course is wel lmarked, typically with 2 indicators before a turn, and a confirmation following it. However there are some situations where advance marks were not possible. Unlike some of the larger rides, there are not a lot of marks between turns.
Riders should utilize the cue sheets provided, and should only use road markings as confirmation. An example of the markings will be shown to the participants before the start of the ride.
Will there be any SAG, Technical Support or Medical Services?
No, bring spare tubes, tires, tools, and anything else you might think is required to perform repairs yourself. Treat this like you would a normal training or club ride. We will however have a Broom Wagon which will sweep the course, but this is not the same as active SAG support.
If you need or see some who requires emergency medical attention, please use your cell to Dial 911.
What Services will be on the course?
None, except for the Classic Feed Zone this is like a typical club ride. Please bring a cell phone, in case of emergencies. We request that all participants behave as Good Samaritans, and aid other participants who require assistance.
What is a Classic Feed Zone?
Nothing Fancy; just like century rides used to be before the introduction of Powerbars, and before kids had peanut allergies. The ride will have a volunteer located approximately mid way on the course with water, energy drink, PB&J, and some fruit. Since we were fortunate to find a benefactor this year, we will also have some energy gels at the Feed Zone.
Is there an Entry Fee for the Hell of Hunterdon?
Yes, please see the Registration page for details
What do I get with my Entry Fee?
You will get a great day on the bike, on a unique and challenging course, a goody bag, a post ride party, and a raffle ticket. Plus you get the support of the Feed Zone, road marking, etc. We have not grown to the point of making t-shirts yet.
Why is there an Entry Fee this year?
Originally the ride was held as a club ride for members of the Central Bucks Bicycle Club, SCU, and the Princeton Freewheelrs. However participation outstripped the parameters of a normal club ride; it qualified as an event, which carries further expenses.
The organizers have put a lot of their time, effort, and money to make this ride the unique experience that it is. Food for the feed zones and after the rides, insurance, printing cue sheets, marking roads, maintaining websites, etc. do not come free. So in order to continue the rides and grow them, a nominal entry fee is required.
There is well more than $20.00 worth of value in the ride. Lest you think the organizers are greedy bastards, any "profits" will benefit local cycling charities.
Who is the ride open to?
The Hell of Hunterdon is open to any cyclist who wants to take on the challenge. Riders can be members of any or no club.
How do I Register?
On-line registration is available at http://www.bikereg.com/events/register.asp?eventid=10238
For full details on registration, please visit our registration page on the Hell of Hunterdon website.
Will bad weather cancel the Hell of Hunterdon?
Typically Not. Since this ride is a tribute to the Northern European Spring Classics, bad weather comes with the territory, thus the ride is rain or shine. But that said, rider safety is paramount, and if conditions warrant it, the ride will be rescheduled as is convenient to the organizers. Please check this website the morning of the ride and on the CBBC and SCU club list servers for cancellation notices.
How Bad are the dirt roads?
The dirt roads on the Hell of Hunterdon are maintained public roads, suitable for daily vehicle use; they just are not sealed with asphalt or other paving material. Most of the roads are hardscrabble, but some of them are packed dirt. Most of them also have some loose gravel. But the roads are generally in good condition.
What Type of Bike Should I Ride?
The course is suitable for the use of standard road bikes. Since the course is 76 miles long, and only ca. 15% of it is dirt roads, we do not recommend the use of mountain or hybrid bikes.
Should I use a Cyclocross Bike?
Cyclocross bikes are welcome, but certainly not required. Keep in mind that cross bikes are no stronger than road bikes; they are just designed to offer better clearance for wider tires and mud. If you use a cyclocross bike, please consider what tires you use, as 85% of the course is on paved roads, so knobbies will be slow.
Can I use a Fixed Gear Bike?
You are welcome to give it a try; we had a single speed last year. There are a few stiff climbs, and some rough descents, but if you are comfortable on such terrain, we welcome you to give it a go. You may get mocked, but you will also be greatly admired.
What Tires Should I use?
Normal road tires typically are just fine, however we recommend using tires wider than 23mm to improve traction, to increase comfort, and to reduce the chances of punctures. Tire treads typically are not very important; knobbies will be slow. An important thing to consider is tire pressure; most people overinflate their tires, which not only are less comfortable, but often lead to poor traction, and flat tires.
Are there any Awards?
This isn’t a race, so there are no prizes based upon performance. However, we do have a raffle for great merchandize prizes during the post-ride celebration. You must be present to win, unless you have made other arrangements with the organizer prior to the event.
