Apple Cider Century in sw Michigan

[shrike]

Come one, come all. I'm a member of the Three Oaks Spokes and we've been putting on the ACC for over 30 years. We have well-stocked SAGS, free ice cream, cider and popcorn the night before, and a spaghetti dinner at the end of the ride. Plus, you get to ride beside Michigan Apple Orchards, vineyards and wineries and the beautiful Lake Michigan shoreline. 25, 50, 75 and 100-mile routes.

[prolesunited]

1. I did that one last year!

It was a great ride. I did the 100-mile route.

I worked the night before, so I just drove up there very early in the morning. As I recall, the weather was great. I would definitely recommend it.

Thanks for helping put on such a great ride. :toast:

Here's the link
http://www.applecidercentury.com/

[shrike]

2. Glad you enjoyed it

We do our best to put on a good ride. Thanks for posting the link, too; I was remiss.

[BiggJawn]

3. How bad are the hills?

I tried the Wabash Valley Century last year. Whoever laid out the route had a Ventoux fetish. I got cooked to a turn before 50 miles. Even the Ironmen were climbing in the little ring...

[shrike]

4. Depends on your definition of hills

Depends on what route you take. 50-milers go by the lakeshore, which by its nature is flat. I'll talk to the president of our club, who maps out the routes, and get back to you on this forum.

[BiggJawn]

5. OK...

I'm not very good at estimating grades, but as I was pushing my 40-pound tourer up the hill after failing to go with a 26/34, I was getting passed by tri-guys on CF bikes who were out of the saddle in 39/24 and having a hard time of it.

Near as I could tell from my topo map, one of the EASIER ones climbed 100 feet in less than a 1/4 mile.

[shrike]

6. Sorry, Jawn

It's my understanding that the 100-route is hilly by anyone's estimation this year.

Well, you're still welcome to join us for the 50-mile -- you could even do it twice if you wanted, just as long as you're off the route by curfew.

[BiggJawn]

7. LOL! Guess I need to Learn How to Climb

Maybe I'll go play on the hills tonight with Red Sonja. She only weighs 26 and has a 26/28 low gear...

And it's 54 and sunny here.....