Geysers-Pine Flat

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Lions, tigers and bears oh my….Really no excuse for not posting sooner but…

JD_SkaggsSprings

Hopper #4 is special, in a fun-painful kind of way. We know it’s going to be hard…it’s a Hopper. If you are new to the Hopper please make sure to read Rules of Engagement. (You can also print a waiver from this link) But just because a ride is hard doesn’t make it a Grasshopper.  It’s all the amazing athletes, sponsors and good-will on wheels that makes every Hopper an epic, memorable and safe day.  We’ll roll from Arnot-Roberts winery, some of the finest local winemakers and Grasshopper sponsors.  I started riding from Duncan and Nathans’ place in Healdsburg in the early 90’s and have fond memories of epic road rides getting ready for the mtb season. Second,the Geysers is a big ride. For many cyclists it’s barely achievable starting and ending in Healdsburg,  but we will add on Pine Flat Rd.  We’ll head west to West Dry Creek Rd and then over to Dutcher Creek on our way to the Geysers. It’s a “gentle” climb for the first 20 minutes with amazing views if you have time to look. The kicker comes about 2/3 of the way to the top when we pass the turn that heads to the old Geysers Resort. At the top of the Geysers climb there will be a neutral feed provided by Osmo and Spoke Folk Cyclery in Healsdsburg. If you wish to have a quick transition you can leave extra bottles at the start and we will have them for you at the feed. If not, you can stop and fill up.  Old bottles can be picked up at Spoke Folk back in Healdsburg. (201 Center St. Hldsbg) There are several sections of gravel on the the Geysers climb and one on the descent. At the bottom of the Geysers when most would call it a day and head back for a shower, lunch and a cold beer, we’ll climb Pine Flat. What could be better than a big day on the bike with a couple hundred of “your best friends who you just met” riding lightly traveled Sonoma County Certified Ribbon Roads?  Pine Flat (yes it’s an oxymoron)  is the ultimate out and back climb that heads from Alexander Valley and summits near 3000 ft. This is a local favorite. Please climb and descend carefully. Pine Flat Road gets a lot of cycling traffic and there are folks living up there so ride safely. Under an hour of climbing is a fast time! The opening streches are rolling and not so inimidating if you have something in the tank. You will need to save something for the last pitch that peaks out over 20% at mile 60. If you have a climbing gear, put it on! I’ve seen the toughest fall to their knees and beg for mercy on this section. The Hopper officially ends at the top where we’ll have some snacks and cold Guayaki drinks before heading down. Don’t be discouraged by going down what you came up. It’s a marvelous ride! The shop sponsors for this stage is SpokeFolk Cyclery in Healdsburg. Stop by to talk with Doug, Richard or Fritz to get the skinny and for any of your pre-Hopper cycling needs.

Categories are Open Men/Women. No age groups this year.

Last years results/times

$25 Pre-reg  $30 day-of

Eventbrite Pre-Reg

Pura vida. Mig

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