The Tour de Skyline Drive is not a race, although some participants ride more quickly than others. The ride is structured to be a fun and challenging ride through one of America’s most beautiful parks. You can expect to have one or two very strong riders that will attack the route like the Tour de France or Giro d’Italie. Most riders, though, will form into small two to three person groups, small pace lines as they are called, and ride the route at their own pace.

Each day’s course is only about 50 miles, but the Skyline Drive is a continual series of climbs and descents - there isn’t much true flat riding on the course. So, if you have never ridden a century ride, it will help to begin a training program. I’ve included some links to websites with suggested programs, and you can also visit Bicycling Magazine for their advice and for a fun online cycling training log where you can track your progress.

Don’t worry if you can’t climb like Lance Armstrong. We will have friendly people to ride along with you or give you and your bike a lift to the crest of the hill or to the next rest station.

Let us know if this information is helpful or if you have tips and suggestions you would like to share with others.

Warm regards, Robert