FAQ about the Berryville Ride

Many people have been asking me questions about Centennial Ride. Below is a list of questions that have been compiled and answered by a few CVM reviewers.

1. How does a bike ride fit in with FDA’s Centennial celebration?
Our motto at the FDA is “Protecting and Promoting Public Health.” Be it through our reviews, research, inspections, or administrative support, most of our time at work is spent on the “Protecting” part. As we celebrate our Centennial, this event gives us the opportunity to promote public health through exercise and health awareness. We hope that all employees will take the opportunity to enjoy a beautiful Sunday with us as we promote public health, not just through words, but by example!

2. What does my registration include?
Registration for the event includes a T-shirt, commemorative water bottle, maps, cue sheets (directions), food and drink at the start, finish, and all rest stops, and, of course, a beautiful day of family fun! (T-shirts are only guaranteed for pre-registrants, and water bottles are only available for the first 1,000 people who register, so sign up now!)

3. Do I have to ride all 100 miles, or can I ride a shorter distance?
If you think you will not be able to ride 100 miles, there will be four alternative routes that you can take. These shorter rides will be 13, 25, 50, and 62 miles long. It is entirely up to you which distance you ride – all rides include the scenic Shenandoah Valley!

4. What if I get a flat tire or my bike breaks during the ride?
There will be a group of individuals driving the ride courses available to help you out. These angels are called SAG support – Support And Gear. They will be able to provide general mechanical assistance, and, if needed, a lift back to the finish.

5. What if I realize part-way through that I can’t make it all the way?
Hopefully this will not happen because you will have been riding and training so that you know your own limits and will ride only as far as you are capable. However, things happen on the day of the ride that you can’t predict. In these cases there will be SAG support who can assist you with your needs.

6. I haven’t ridden a bike in a long time. Is this something that I could try?
Absolutely - read this blog! If you haven’t ridden in a while, the best thing to do is to start riding well before the big day so that you can get used to being back on your bike. Start with short rides and slowly work your way up. By the time you’re a few miles into your first 5 mile ride, I’m sure you’ll re-discover the simple fun of cycling.

7. Will there be food and drink at the ride? How about rest stops?
Yes! There will be four rest stops provided along the route where you can get food, drink, and even technical service for your bike should you need it. In addition to the rest stops, food and drink will be provided at the finish of the ride.

8. What happens if it rains?
The ride will be held rain or shine. The PPTC is a non-profit organization that runs on a tight budget, and much of the registration cost will be spent on fixed costs, such as t-shirts, water bottles, maps, facilities, etc. So, the PPTC will not be able to refund your registration if you choose not to ride.

9. Can I bring my children on the ride?
Families are more than welcome! We ask that anyone under the age of 18 be accompanied by a parent or guardian during the ride.

10. What kind of bike should I ride?
Although a small tire, road bike is best for these types of rides, the most important thing is to have a bike that fits you and is in good repair. If you are unsure of your bike’s fit and condition, any local bike shop will be able to help you get your bike tuned up and ready to go!

11. I’m thinking about buying a new bike. Do you have any suggestions?
When considering a new bike, first think about how you will use it. How frequently will you be riding it? How far? What types of roads/trails will you be riding? Combine answers to these questions with your budget and you’ll be well on your way to picking out a bike that is best for you. This information is the best way to start off a conversation with a professional at your local bike shop. He or she will be able to use your answers to guide you to a bike that will serve your needs and keep you riding for years to come.

12. Do I have to wear a helmet?
YES! A helmet is by far the most important thing that you need while riding. According to the Bicycle Helmet Safety Institute, there are over 176,000 hospitalizations due to bicycle accidents each year in the United States, and about 800 cyclists die, half of the deaths are children who are 14 and younger. Two-thirds of the total deaths are from traumatic brain injury. Some estimates claim that over 90% of serious bicycling injuries could be prevented with the use of a helmet. At the PPTC Back Roads Century a helmet is required for ALL riders.

13. Will spandex really make me ride faster?
If it were only that easy… Unfortunately spandex does not make you ride faster. However, it may make your rides more comfortable – especially if you get padded bicycling shorts. Everyone will go through a period in the beginning when the bike seat is uncomfortable, but padded shorts will make the whole experience more enjoyable.

14. This sounds great! How can I register?
You can register with a credit card at: http://bikepptc.org/web_final/

If you have any other questions or comments, do not hesitate to leave a comment!