PVG FAQ

2009 PVG FAQ

The basics:
- Friday evening 7-10pm reception at Grand River Cellars - pick up ride package, sample wines, meet other riders.

- Saturday - 2 ride distance choices (45 or 65 miles); lunch, and dinner at Chalet Debonne (transportation provided)

- Sunda - 1 ride distance (approximately 40 miles); lunch, reception after ride at Grand River Cellars

1. When does the ride start each morning?
Registration will open each morning at 7:30am. You can begin riding at your leisure each day.
2. Are the roads patrolled?
Yes the roads are patrolled by SAG vehicles during the ride. These vehicles are there to help if you have a mechnical breakdown or cannot complete the ride. If your bicycle cannot be repaired on the road, you will be taken back to the Lodge OR to the nearest rest stop to be shuttled back to the start. IF THERE IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY, CALL 911 You will also be provided with a cell phone number to call for other than medical emergencies.
3. Are the roads marked?
Yes. The roads will be marked with arrows before AND after a turn. If there is a long straightaway, there will be no extra markings. Unless you see OUR arrows (colors will be announced before the ride) DO NOT TURN. You will also be given a "cue sheet" each day that details each road, the mileage, and every turn. If we are able, we will upload all the data to a GPS website for downloading.
4. When is lunch served?
Lunch stops open at 10:30am each morning and run until 2:30pm.
5. When is dinner served?
Dinner will be at Chalet Debonne this year. Van service will be available from the Lodge to dinner beginning at 4:30pm Saturday evening.
6. Is there a dress code for Friday's reception?
Yes, Wear clothes!
7. Can I buy extra wine?
Of course! Please place orders for wine with Chalet Debonne. You may also buy wine on premise at the vineyard anytime Saturday or after 1:00pm on Sunday.
8. Are the intersections monitored for traffic?
No. As a responsible cyclist, you are expected to stop at stop signs and obey traffic lights. Use signals when turning and use "cycling etiquette" when passing other riders. Call out road hazards when you see them, warn others of impending issues, and be watchful. Try to hold your line and not cut off other cyclists. You must wear a helmet during the ride!
9. What is the terrain like?
For the most part, the terrain on Saturday is flat to rolling. Sunday has some decent sized hills. More importantly, most of the beautiful covered bridges sit on roads that are less than perfect - some even have a lot of gravel. And, while we have tried to keep you OFF gravel, many roads are rough. It is our strong suggestion that if you are riding a road bike, you choose the widest tire your bicycle can handle. At a minimum, we suggest 25mm width; 28mm or 32mm is better. You can absolutely ride narrower tires, but you will have to be much more careful about the handling of your bicycle on some of the roads. Your cue sheet will have warnings of rough roads, railroad crossings, etc. Be mindful!
10. What happens if it rains?
We ride! However, if it is cold, please bring the appropriate riding clothes. This may include arm warmers, leg warmers, tights, a jacket or vest, and warm socks. If you have problems with cold hands and ears, use long-fingered gloves and an earband. It is very easy to stay warm (and mostly dry) with the right clothing. Bring an extra change of clothes (in addition to what you THOUGHT you might need) and 2 extra pair of socks. Of course, none of this is going to be necessary as the weather is going to be perfect!
Do You Have Another Question? Email me and I'll post it!