Frequently Asked Questions

This information will help answer all of your questions.
 

Doylestown, PA
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Is the Fools Classic a Race?

The Fools Classic is a challenging RIDE. The roads are open to traffic and there are no prizes for finishing order.  Participants should obey all traffic rules and are responsible for their own safety.

Will we be riding as a group?

That is entirely up to the participants; the ride has an “At-Will” Start, so you will need to coordinate with other participants

What type of support does the ride offer?

This is a Randonnée, so participants are expected to largely be self sufficient.

The 2023 Courses will NOT be marked; cue sheets and GPS files will be made available.  Riders will have free access to use the RideWithGPS App on ride day.

There are no aid stations, but the course has been designed to pass several stores, but riders must be prepared to carry adequate supplies.

There will be post ride drinks provided to all entrants as part of your entry.  There will be a food truck on-site at BUCKS COUNTY BREWERY

Will there be any SAG, Technical Support or Medical Services?

There will be not be SAG, Tech Support or Emergency Medical Services.  Bring spare tubes, tires, tools, and anything else you might think is required to perform repairs yourself.  Since there are not emergency medical services, be prepared to call 911 in case of emergency.  There will be an Event Hotline to call in case you can’t complete the course, and can’t arrange other transportation.

Is there an Entry Fee for the Fools Classic?

Yes, please see the Registration Page for details

What do I get with my Entry Fee?

You will get a great day on the bike, on a unique and challenging course, along with the post ride drinks.

Proceeds help support local charities

Who is the ride open to?

The Fools Classic is open to any experienced cyclist who wants to take on the challenge of this event. Riders can be members of any or no club.

How do I Register?

On-line registration is available at BikeReg. Please see the registration page for more details.

Will Bad Weather Cancel the Fools Classic?

Typically Not. Since this ride is a tribute to the Northern European Spring Classics, bad weather comes with the territory, thus the ride is rain or shine. But that said, rider safety is paramount, and if conditions warrant it, the ride will be rescheduled as is convenient to the organizers. Please check this website the morning of the ride or Facebook for any changes. Pre-Registered riders will also be notified via email.

How Bad are the Unpaved Roads?

The unpaved roads on the Fools Classic are public roadways and trails, suitable for daily use; they just are not sealed with asphalt or other paving material. Some of the roads are packed dirt, packed gravel, or hardscrabble, but many of them have loose gravel, significant potholes, and quite a few ruts.  Some roads have denser gravel than others.

What Type of Bike Should I Ride?

The course is suitable for road bikes, but tires wider than 25 mm are highly suggested to improve traction, comfort, and to reduce the likelihood of punctures.  We do not recommend the use of mountain or hybrid bikes.  The course is not suitable for time trial or triathlon bikes, which are prohibited.

Should I use a Cyclocross or Gravel Bike?

Cyclocross and Gravel bikes are welcome, but certainly not required. Keep in mind that cross and gravel bikes are not stronger than road bikes; they are just designed to offer better clearance for wider tires and mud. If you use a cyclocross or gravel bike, please consider what tires you use, as most of the course is on paved roads, so true knobbies will be slow.

Can I use a Fixed Gear Bike?

You are welcome to give it a try, but your bike must have working brakes. This is a hilly ride with a several steep climbs, and some rough descents, but if you are comfortable on such terrain, we welcome you to give it a go. You may get mocked, but you will also be greatly admired.

What Tires Should I use?

Normal road tires typically are just fine, however we recommend using tires wider than 25mm to improve traction, to increase comfort, and to reduce the chances of punctures. Tire treads typically are not very important; knobbies will be slow. An important thing to consider is tire pressure; most people over-inflate their tires, which not only is less comfortable, but often leads to poor traction, and flat tires.

Are there any Awards?

This isn’t a race, so there are no prizes based upon performance. However, we do have a door prize drawing for great merchandise prizes. You must be present to win, unless you have made other arrangements with the organizer prior to the event.

If I have other questions, who do I contact?

Please submit your question via our Contact Form