CFC MTB July Transmission #1

Welcome to July folks! Summer is underway and the Southeastern heat and humidity has come on full swing, perfect for post ride lake swims and mid-ride river dips. Unfortunately, there is no swimming at Cane Creek Lake, but that won’t stop us from playing in the shade on the trail.

 

Wednesday. 5:30 PM roll out from CFC for the Wednesday Nite XC@CC*. Celebratory pints of beverages at Hix to watch the sunset afterwards.

 

This week’s Saturday Ride Plans:  

 

With some staffing changes underway at the shop, the ability for me to get away for longer Saturday morning rides with the group is quickly coming to an end. However, before that happens let’s make the most of our time and do something a little different this week. For those wanting more pedal time with less turns (looking at you Connie), let’s take the crew out to Standing Stone State Park to introduce people to the gravel and forest roads available for exploration. Meet at CFC at 8:00 AM for a carpool roll out at 8:15 AM 

Notes: 

1. Distances will vary. An initial, pace-governed, no-drop 10-ish mile intro loop, followed by more advanced spur trails and longer climbs for those able and wanting to tackle more.  
2. While this is a beginner friendly ride in terms of being a basic gravel road loop, that doesn’t mean “easy” and requires a moderate amount of cycling fitness to complete.
3. There are long, steep mountain climbs so be prepared to sit in and enjoy the views on the crawl upwards.
4. Conversely, there are long, steep, curvy, loose descents and the potential for traffic (minimal but occasional) and horses, so always be in control of your bike and aware of other road users.
5. Be prepared (spare tube, trail snacks, plenty of water). Unlike Cane Creek, the park is very remote and access back to the cars is measured in miles not 1/4 miles. Cell service is very minimal as well.
6. The main loop is made up of gravel roads, aside from the ups and downs, there isn’t anything that should deter riders from coming out to explore and enjoy the park and state forest.
7. The route works for mountain, hybrid, or gravel/cross bikes. Something with at least 35mm wide tires is best. (FWIW, I’ll be on my singlespeed MTB not my drop bar bike.) 

*What is the XC@CC ride?

 

XC = Cross Country Mountain Biking CC = Cane Creek

 

We ride a short urban jaunt over to Cane Creek Park. Then ride as many or as little laps as we each feel like at whatever pace we feel like – regrouping every lap at the “talking spot” near the original trail head entrance. Then we roll back as a group. This ride is more about fun off-road riding rather than being fast and setting KOM records. All ability levels welcome. 

A look ahead to upcoming MTB events 

Until next time keep the rubber side down and the stoke turned up.

Cheers!