The Hell of Hunterdon – “I think we’re done with the serious climbs after this.”

By CJ Rudy

Each year the Hell of Hunterdon (L’enfer d’Hunterdon) has increased its participation. This year’s wonderful weather helped increase last-minute rider registration looking to take on 76 miles of New Jersey back roads. Under cool sunny skies and leaf-less trees, 140 riders departed one block from the ride’s home base, Pure Energy Cycling and Java House in Lambertville. This was remarkable compared to last year’s thirty-five riders. Early arrivers had the choice of Belgian waffles provided by one of the ride’s sponsors, Caffe Galleria. Due to increased sponsorship, all riders got a SWAG bag, while pre-registered bikers were eligible to win raffle prizes.

Three groups departed on course, giving people self-evaluated packs in which to ride. Those unaware of the amount of climbing involved were greeted with a mile-and-a-half long climb of Quarry Rd., which hit six percent.  According to the official maps, this would be the first few feet of gain along the way to 3,600 feet.

The weather proved to be workable for the day. During the first few miles, riders experienced intermittent cloudiness and fog, but this would prove to be the last inconsistency with which we would have to deal. Temperatures would reach 70 degrees by midday, and the sun was visible from start to finish. The lack of leaves on the trees was indicative of an early season ride.

Riders were quickly immersed into the world of piste riding; the first turn following Quarry Rd. introduced riders to the first of eighteen unpaved sections.  Unpaved sections ranged from hard pack to loose sand with gravel.  Many sections required concentration and self-awareness as some unpaved roads included technical descents.

The 2 feed zones couldn’t have come at better times. The first was at the Peacock Country Store set at an intersection of a back road and state road.  It was a nice rest before hitting more climbing shortly following the stop.

The second feed zone came after a long downhill and a return to the Delaware River; the Bull’s Island stop at mile 63 gave riders a glimpse of the finish and anticipation of the final few miles. As is the Hell of Hunterdon style, riders cranked up another climb after the feed zone; it was an ascent of yet another street named Quarry Rd, but this time the road was unpaved.

Riders pulled into the finish area at Pure Energy upon conquering the 76-mile affair to find pizza provided by Caffe Galleria, and beer by River Horse Brewing Company.  Tents and tables allowed for people to reflect on the numerous topics of conversation; the feeling of accomplishment was unparalleled. Participants were on the lookout for the rider who experienced the most flats that day (7 was the unverified comment). There were many riders who did not puncture, rest assured.

The overall experience was well beyond the value of the registration fee. Being surrounded by riders looking to pedal out of one of the snowiest winters and the nod to Euro classics made this ride a perfect choice for a challenging day out.  With 28 raffle prizes available, 1 in every 4 eligible riders took home a prize.  The Grand Prize winner, Dominic Malleo, won a fabulous Lazer Helmet, keeping with the event theme.  

The increase in popularity proves hopeful for the future. Sponsors made this ride possible, as did the volunteers, who helped with check-ins and post-ride activities.  For those looking for a spring experience completely worth the nominal entry fee, look no further.  But one bit of advice: leave the 23s at home and opt for 25 mm tires.

See Photos of the 2nd Hell of Hunterdon here