Training Goals
The 8th annual Park-2-Park ride covers a new route for us, from West Glacier to West Yellowstone – 418 miles of Montana beauty from majestic mountains to the sweeping high plains of southern Montana. This route is a challenging one. Rider preparation is essential in order to experience a successful, safe and enjoyable ride. The daily rides range from medium to difficult with daily miles from 72–99 miles including a climb over the Continental Divide on Thursday. Elevations range from 2,900–6,600 feet.
For information on cycling on Montana roads, see Cycling Routes in Montana. This site has invaluable information on training routes, cycling laws, and Montana-specific resources.
Getting Yourself Ready
Plan to ride at least 100 miles a week for at least the six weeks leading up to the September 10th ride. Getting at least 600 miles in on your bike will prepare your body and mind for the event. Remember you will be riding over 400 miles in just five days in September.
Ride at least one century in August. A 100-mile ride will help prepare you for the long day Tuesday, and the longer day on Thursday which includes the climb over the Continental Divide. This is also a good chance to try a group ride if you haven't done one before.
Ride at least two days back to back. Plan to ride two days in a row for at least 40-50 miles each day. This will help get your backside and mind prepared for a multi-day ride.
Make sure you have 2-3 pairs of comfortable bike shorts. You will want a clean pair each day. You can do laundry along the way.
Cool weather gear is essential. While September is a great month for cycling, the weather is generally cool (frosty) in the morning. Tights, a jacket, and long-fingered gloves are great for cold starts. You can drop stuff in the luggage truck later in the day when it warms up. We have started some years in a cold rain so be sure to come prepared for rain and wind.
Figure out how to fuel yourself for long rides. We will have plenty of food available, but find out what works best for you to sustain your energy for 5-8 hours of riding a day. We provide snacks at rest stops such as energy bars, fruit, veggies, gels, and HammerNutrition products, but if you need something very specific you need to bring that along.
Getting Your Bike Ready
Schedule a tune-up at your local bike shop. Make sure your bike is in tip-top shape for a multi-day ride. This may include a new chain, lubricating cables, replacing worn parts, and adjusting shifting. You don’t want shifting or braking problems during the ride.
Plan to replace your tires in August. Check your tires to make sure there are no major nicks or cuts and the tread looks good. If there are issues, replace the tires now rather than on the road. Our mechanic will carry spare tubes and a few tires but if your tires are not a common size you will want to carry your own spares. Know how to change your own tire - or ride with someone who does! The mechanic could be miles down the road helping someone else and valuable time is lost waiting for him to discover you.
Check your helmet for any cracks or wear and consider replacing if there's any question of its being able to protect you. Put a rearview mirror on your bike or helmet and a taillight on your bike. You are riding on the highway and these safety measures are essential for dealing with traffic approaching from behind.
