FAQs
What is a Gran Fondo?
A Gran Fondo is an amazing mix of the best aspects of each: a long-distance bicycle group ride, a race and festival. Often hosted by a professional cyclist or patron, the premiere routes are celebrated for their heritage, difficulty or scenery, if not for their use also as a professional race course. The Alpine Loop Gran Fondo has timed segments, and participants can race the clock or simply challenge themselves to complete the course within the designated cutoff. Along the course, riders receive well-staffed support similar to a road race: course marshals, volunteers, signage, lead and sag vehicles and mechanical assistance. Unlike a race, rest stations along the route welcome and encourage riders to linger and enjoy food and drink. The festival is what sets these events apart from your average group ride. Communities come together to welcome riders, cheer them along the route and enjoy the excitement of the event. At the finish line, participants celebrate their achievement, relax and enjoy the festivities together.
What type of bike should I ride?
The Alpine Loop, Shenandoah Mountain Century, Shenandoah Mountain Adventure, Mt Solon Metric Century and Valley View Challenge routes all take place on road surfaces – participants will ride road cycling or gravel bikes.
How do I know if my bike is a “road” or “gravel” bike?
Road bikes have large wheels with smooth “skinny” tires and handle bars that typically curl downward – just like the bikes you see in the Tour de France. Gravel bikes are similar to road bikes, but specially equipped to that terrain. If you’re not familiar enough with your bicycle to know this designation, it’s likely that you’re not quite ready for the longest routes just yet. However, if you’re an enthusiast who frequently rides a hybrid, a mountain bike, touring, or tandem bicycle, the Valley View Challenge 36-mile or Mt Solon Metric Century 100-kilometer (62-mile) routes might be just the experience you’re looking for! More info about equipment regulations.
Can I ride my e-bike?
Yes. Now e-bike participants can join in a non-competitive experience and select from the Mt Solon Metric Century and Valley View Challenge routes. E-bike participants will be staged behind traditional bike riders and begin at 8:05AM.
I heard there is dirt on the Alpine Loop?
You heard right! In total there are about 11 miles of dirt road on the Alpine Loop, all but nearly 1 mile of which are uphill. Gravel bikes will be well-suited to these climbs. Road bikes are also appropriate. That being said, leave your light weight race tires at home. Tubeless, flat-resistant tires are recommended. The Shenandoah Mountain Century, Shenandoah Mountain Adventure, Mt Solon Metric Century and Valley View Challenge are entirely paved.
Are the hills steep?
That, they are. Easy gearing is a must for the Alpine Loop!
How many rest stations are there?
Let’s break this down by route. Check out the Rest Stop Guide for full details.
Valley View Challenge (36-mile) route: there is a full rest station located at mile 17.
Mt Solon Metric Century (62-mile) route: there is a full rest station located at miles 17 and 44.
Shenandoah Mountain Adventure (78-mile) route: at miles 30, 40 and 58.
Shenandoah Mountain Century (100-mile) route: at miles 30, 40, 58 and 82.
Alpine Loop Gran Fondo (107-mile) route: at miles 30, 40, 63 and 88.
Are there time cutoffs?
Yes, to better ensure the safety of participants, volunteers and the communities along the routes, time limits of very reasonable amounts will be upheld. Select a route that you can complete with enough time to enjoy the finish line experience, get your meal and drink. Exact milestones are available here. Any riders who are unable to achieve the time limits will be given the choice to join a different route, shuttle to the next aid station or directly to the finish line – depending on the circumstances and location.
So, it’s not a race, but there are King and Queen of the Mountains and Sprint prizes?
Yes! Since there is always some competitive nature to a group ride, we’re hosting a Mountains competition. It’s a friendly way to compete within the ride, and test yourself against an unyielding competitor – the mountain! Apart from the Mountains Contest, throw down (should you choose to), we hope you’ll enjoy the camaraderie of riding alongside friends and fellow cyclists, and find little incentive to push your limits on the downhills. For more info, see the Mountains Contest page.
Are there prizes or medals?
All riders will receive Finisher Medallions.
Sometimes it’s the rider who bravely rides on instead of dropping out who deserves the prize. And that’s why we have something special in store for the final Alpine Loop finisher to cross the line before the time cut!
What about registration? Is it open? Are there field limits? Can I register on site?
The link at the top of this page will take you to the BikeReg.com online event registration home page for the Alpine Loop Gran Fondo. Registration is based on first come, first serve until the field limits have been reached. In previous years the event has sold out in advance. Hopeful participants are encouraged to register early. There will be no onsite registration.
Where can I park?
Free, all-day parking is available at the Start and Finish Line Festival Location – map and directions will be posted. All the info you need to plan your visit.
Will there be food at the finish line?
YES! There’s going to be a full meal waiting for you at the finish line. Participants can also look forward to ice cold chocolate milk, iced tea, lemonade, sodas. Beer will be available in the Beer Garden. First pour is included with event registration (for ages 21+).
Is the food included in the cost of registration? How can my family and friends get in on this deal?
Yes, one meal is included for cyclists who register for the event. You will receive a special token so you can access the catering line. Meal tickets will be available for spectators via event registration IN ADVANCE ONLY.
Did these topics answer your questions?
We hope so, but if you have any questions, please e-mail Erin @AlpineLoopGranFondo.com (no spaces in the actual e-mail address… trying to deter spam bots). If you’re still wondering – someone else is too. We’ll keep updating this page accordingly.
Thanks!
