Is the Hell of Hunterdon a Race?
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 course markings, so those who want to ride at their own pace, can. While there will be a mass start, everyone will start in self-seeded waves, according to your own fitness, skills, and abilities. We expect there to be several groups that form quickly on the road, based upon these. We suggest you ride in a manner that is most comfortable and safe for you.
What type of support does the ride offer?
The course will be marked, cue sheets will be provided, there will be 2 staffed & stocked aid stations (feed zones), there will be a post-ride party, and there will be broom wagons.
What does “Marked Course” mean?
The turns will be professionally marked with either a paint on the road, or with signs, depending on the circumstances. The course will be very well marked, typically with 2 indicators before a turn, and a confirmation following it. However there are some situations where advance marks will not possible. There will not be a lot of marks between turns.
Riders should carry and utilize the provided cue sheets, in case a something errant happens to any course markings (road paint gets covered by debris, someone removes or turns a sign, etc.).
Will there be any SAG, Technical Support or Medical Services?
There will be limited support.
All participants must 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, and aid in repairs to the best of their abilities, but this is not the same as active mechanical support.
There will not be emergency medical services on course; thus if you need or see some who requires immediate emergency medical attention, please use your cell to Dial 911.
What is a Classic Feed Zone?
Nothing Fancy; just like century rides used to be before the introduction of fancy bars, and before so many kids had peanut allergies. The ride will have volunteers located at 2 points on the course with water, energy drink, PB&J, Cereal bars, fruit, and some other goodies. 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 Aid Stations, course marking, etc.
Who is the ride open to?
The Hell of Hunterdon is open to any cyclist who wants to take on the challenge. Riders under 18 must have the written permission of their parent or guardian.
How do I Register?
On-line registration is available here.
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, BCP and SCU club list servers for cancellation notices. An email message will also be sent to all pre-registered participants.
How Bad are the Dirt Roads?
The dirt roads on the Hell of Hunterdon are normal 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. The amount of gravel and pot holes vary year-to-year, based upon how hard a winter there has been.
What Type of Bike Should I Ride?
The course is suitable for the use of standard road bikes. Since the course is 79 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 get a few fixies or single speeds each year. There are a few stiff climbs, and some rough descents, but if you are comfortable on such terrain (5000' of climbing), we welcome you to give it a go. You may get mocked, but you will also be greatly admired.
Can I use a Time Trial or Triathlon Bike?
No, unfortunately the course is not suitable for such bicycles; it just isn’t safe. However, if you have a road bike with aero bars, you are permitted to use it. But we prohibit you from using the aero bars when you are on the dirt roads or in a group, as it just isn’t safe to do so. The same rules would apply to Fabian Cancellara and Craig Alexander if they were to miraculously participate.
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.
