Thanks reddan. Sub 30 is awesome. Out of my league. I'm shooting for the 40hr range with a stop in Chambersburg for bit of sleep.
2015-01-18 12:22:29
137
2015 Crush the Commonwealth
(Per a good suggestion from @Kristopher, let's start getting pumped for CtC 2015 on a new thread.)
The source of truth: crushthecommonwealth.com
My accumulated musings on the subject, including maps and general route info:Unofficial CtC FAQ
A bunch of CtC ride reports (among others): Pittsburgh Randos links
This year is eastbound to Philly, which I can promise is much less painful than westbound.
I'm leaning towards doing it this year...it's been three years since I completed it, and I'm feeling a bit nostalgic. No specific goals as of yet, although, if I can get my lazy butt back in shape over the wintry months, a no-sleep sub-30-hour result seems possible.
2015-01-18 11:53:46
Dan, let's train. My weekends are open.
2015-01-18 13:20:25
So getting back to garmins and external power packs, I would take a photo of my external batteries if I could post a photo conveniently, but the icon to do so is missing.
http://shop.halo2cloud.com/collections/power
My mother bought me a few of these a few years ago and that is what I bring with me.
2015-01-18 13:26:39
Stef, what are you using for lights? I use a dynamo hub for primary headlight and taillight, and battery-powered lights on my helmet for secondaries.
(@Kristopher, I mention lights because that's another thing to consider when planning what batteries and power packs you need to bring, and you will want good lights for this endeavour.)
I've been thinking about getting a dynamo-powered USB charging system (Supernova's The Plug, which replaces the stem cap, has a lot of appeal), but haven't done enough research to really figure out what makes the most sense.
2015-01-18 13:47:28
I appreciate all the help Stefb. I'm going to get the Garmin soon and test the battery life and go from there. I'm thinking I could use the power pack to recharge my light too.
On the topic of lighting do you think 400 lumens is enough. That what I have now but I've been tossing around getting something in the 700 range.
2015-01-18 13:51:24
@Kristopher: IMO, 400 lumens is plenty; what's more important is the shape of the optics, so that the light is focused where you need it, rather than spilling off high and to the sides. (Assuming we're talking road riding, anyway; for mountain biking, I'd want a symmetric beam that illuminates low-hanging branches and bears charging from the side and whatnot)
Peter White has some great comparison beam shots (both dynamo-driven and battery-powered) on one of his headlight pages.
2015-01-18 14:38:03
I've got to force myself to get out for some night rides in a really dark area..... No street lights and such so I can get a better idea of the beam. I rode over 6000 miles last year but hardly any at night.
Last question and I promise I'll give it a rest for a while.
How about rain gear? Reading past years blogs the weather for CTC has been crap. Gotta get some rain gear and I'm looking for suggestions. Duel purpose Gortex like jacket or softshell and separate rain jacket?
2015-01-18 15:15:09
Hello @Kristopher, if you're ever around Breezewood with your bike - I think the Abandoned Turnpike Tunnels would be the best place to evaluate how well a light dispels darkness. Caveat: significant ice buildup on the floor in the winter months.
2015-01-18 15:19:45
Vannevar, I live close to the Montour trial and I'm going to put my light on my hybrid and ride there some night. There's a good size tunnel at the 7 mile marker and the lights in it only work during the day. I think it will be a good test. Thanks for the info on the closed turnpike tunnels. Looking foresee to seeing them on the ride. My plan has me getting there after sundown so it will be quite the experience.
2015-01-18 16:09:40
@Kristopher: I'd recommend separate layers, so you can mix-n-match as needed. In mid-April, you can potentially enjoy a 40-degree temperature difference over the course of a day spent riding across the state, so you'll need to be able to handle everything from 70s and drenching rain to 30s and, well, drenching rain.
2015-01-18 17:20:13
Thanks to all for the advice today. I'm really looking forward to the CTC challenge.
2015-01-18 17:48:27
I use cygolite mitycross 800. I use it as my commuter. We have been buying cygolites for years, and I have at least 3 batteries that I can charge and bring along. I mount to my helmet. There are a bunch of settings to save battery. I like being able to point my light where I am looking. I don't use any handlebar lights. I also don't mind carrying the batteries. I feel like it doesn't matter once I have a ton of clothes for the changing weather.
2015-01-18 18:11:56
Do you mount the battery to your helmet too?
2015-01-18 22:09:32
Yes. The Velcro makes it easy to remove when I don't need to wear it, and the headlamp slides on and off the mount easily. These batteries don't have long enough of a cord to put in a backpack or mount elsewhere.
2015-01-19 06:59:25
Thanks Stefb! I have the day off today so going to check some of this stuff out. You've been a great help.
2015-01-19 09:13:03
My 400 lumen cygolite is enough for a tunnel or railtrail at night at a moderate speed. I only finding it limiting when I'm riding 20mph+
I do like having a second light, however, with my handlebar mounted light being constantly on and a helmet light turned on when needed. I like having two 400 lumen lights which gives extra light when needed and more importantly, redundancy if one goes out.
2015-01-19 10:42:06
Re: raingear - if I was to attempt a venture like this, I would take something like this O2 raingear. It's cheap, light, and packs super small. It's basically Gore-tex film with the least possible material attached to it. I would think you need something to keep you from getting hypothermia, just in case, and that's about it.
http://www.nashbar.com/bikes/Product_10053_10052_187652_-1___204698
No plastic jackets - worse than nothing.
Also, wool. As much wool as you can manage.
2015-01-19 14:18:49
There's info on raingear on the BikingPgh Wiki. My experience has been that rain capes work much better than jackets. With rain capes, you get some ventilation from the bottom, even when there's a lot of rain. With jackets, sweat just builds up inside, and you end up getting wet from that instead of the rain. I've wrung out a jacket on a brevet and watched the sweat run out just like rain.
2015-01-19 14:32:58
I borrowed dan's rain cape and still got wet. It was comfy and it did ventilate well, but there was so much rain that it was too much for anything that was supposed to be waterproof. So much rain. Ugh.
2015-01-19 20:54:48
Ok.....jacket or cape still results in wet if it rains hard enough. Let's hope for a fair skies this year and break the streak of crap weather. Then none of us will have to worry about it.
2015-01-19 21:37:40
Ok…..jacket or cape still results in wet if it rains hard enough.
Yep. That's why Bill's advice re: wool is spot-on. You're likely going to be soaked at some point no matter what; wool will keep you warm, even when wet.
That said, if you're just dealing with drizzle or light rain, a rain cape is a good way to go to stay somewhat dry without overheating as much. And they're quite attention-getting, especially if you go with day-glo plastic and put a blinky on flash mode inside.
Fair skies would be truly lovely. I shan't hold my breath, though.
2015-01-20 07:43:44
My wardrobe is slowly becoming 100% black merino
By which I mean ^ what those guys said about wool 2015-01-22 00:01:24
I hope the weather is shitty. It just wouldn't be the same.
2015-01-22 20:32:29
take it back, Stef, take it back.
2015-01-23 21:49:15
It's not like the commonwealth is gonna let you guys crush it without putting up a fight. Just sayin'.
2015-01-23 22:27:01
Im actually a pretty big fan of the "rain cape" plastic style. They keep you
SUPER warm. They are good for stopping shivers and hypothermia.
They are not good for keeping you cool or dry, but warmth is the key.
The 02 stuff is nice as well. Super cheap and packable. They tear fairly
easily and are almost more disposable than a plastic cape.
2015-01-30 07:41:34
I agree re: having an easily packable plastic shell. I've only needed mine on CtC a couple of times, but, when you need it, you NEED it. (2010, westbound, between Bedford and Somerset, pounding rain and temps in the mid-30s. I wore every garment I had, including a plastic shell, and it was barely enough.)
2015-01-30 09:17:45
When I need to keep my legs super warm, like last winter, I used rain pants from REI as a top layer. Those things do not breathe. They are made of that plasticy material also. I laugh at the "breathable" label they place on them. I actually only use them when I have days I have to commute to work in 35 degrees and rain, and even then, my legs sweat with only thin bib shorts under them. They pack down nice and small. They really would mak good CtC shit weather-I think I am going to get hypothermia- clothing.
2015-01-30 21:33:59
Nothing that says breathable actually is.
2015-01-30 23:41:44
Is there a good convenience store in West Newton at 7:30 am? I remember having trouble there in 2013 and looking for better options? The RiteAid isn't open until 8am.
Thanks!
2015-02-16 19:03:18
Back to the wool conversation. I've discovered that Merino wool doesn't have to be expensive. After lots of searching on the web and a visit to REI, I was still reluctent to part with big bucks for a wool underlayer. Of all places, I found a black 100% merino wool crew neck in fantastic condition(Banana Republic brand) at Red, White and Blue thrift shop on Rt 65. With a 75% President's Day markdown, I paid all of $3.25.
How can you lose on a deal like that?
2015-02-17 09:59:42
That's a lucky find.
I have found that European stores like Wiggle (wiggle.co.uk) offer good prices, even counting the shipping.
2015-02-17 10:22:49
I am seriously contemplating doing this ride, because I want to get a long one down before Memorial Day weekend this year, and it is always more fun to ride with others. I did this back in 2007 (I think) and it was a blast, but I doubt that I am going to be coming into Philly any earlier than late Saturday night.
If anyone is down for splitting a rental car to drive back to Pittsburgh vs taking the Greyhound let me know. I'd assume to be driving back Monday most likely, regardless of how long it takes to pedal there.
2015-02-17 11:52:17
BTW in order for the rain cape to really keep you dry, you also need fenders. Without them, spray from the road gradually soaks you from below. Something to keep in mind for this year's CtC.
2015-03-11 10:33:01
Last year I had a cheepo plastic rain jacket that ripped. A clerk at a mini-mart gave me a large garbage back. This year I'm going with http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002ETVM0W/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o00_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1. It worked pretty well last night. It didn't keep me totally dry, but it kept my core dry and has good ventilation. I don't mind my legs getting wet. It packs a little large.
A battery pack charges my phone and gps quite well.
See you at the Point. I think there will be 3 or 4 new comers this year. I wonder if I'll be the oldest competitor this year one week after my 51st Birthday :-)
2015-03-11 15:18:33
Does that poncho fit over a backpack well?
2015-03-11 15:34:09
durishange - i got you beat at 58 and i'll be a couple months short of 59 by race day. first time for me, so who knows what's going to happen. mostly just want to finish, but shooting for 40hrs.
If you hadn't seen it, Pgh Randoneers have a 200K this Sunday and me a couple buddies are registered for that.
2015-03-11 16:18:32
I picked up a waterproof rain shell at Wally World (Frogg Toggs), that folds up into itself for storage in my panniers and has enough elastic at the bottom to keep water from splashing up at you (if you don't like fenders). It doesn't breathe AT ALL but it doesn't let any water in from the outside either. They make super-light versions as well for pretty cheap that are great for backpacking but not as durable.
http://www.amazon.com/Frogg-Toggs-Mens-River-Jacket/dp/B00MXV412M
2015-03-13 15:32:49
If everyone keeps buying new foul weather gear, it will be sunny at CTC.
2015-03-13 17:47:53
Stop buying rain gear! It wouldn't be CtC without bad weather. You would miss out on the joy of misery and type 3 fun
2015-03-13 19:13:29
Hahaha. The time I did the ride, in 2007 I think — the weather was pretty great, except for a bit of hypothermic "sleep" inside of a 45 degree rated sleeping bag wearing nothing but shorts, a jersey and a windbreaker inside.
We were camped at Shawnee State Park and the hot shower was quite welcome.
We had a crappy winter — it would be great if everyone brings the appropriate rain gear so we won't need any of it!
2015-03-16 13:04:21
Does anyone have the Bike Route S PDF anymore? I saw they took it offline.
Are they really out of date? I remember back in 2007 getting thrown off-track near Lancaster and used the map to find my way back. Otherwise the whole route was very well marked.
Are the maps outdated enough to be considered useless now?
2015-03-16 13:05:38
As luck would have it, I grabbed copies of the PDFs a while back. Enjoy.
[Edited to add:] The direct link to the master PDF still works, too.
2015-03-16 13:08:56
I thought some signs near Valley Forge Christian College were missing. But maybe by then something was going wrong with my brain. Probably... OK, definitely. Still, I had no problem following the signs except in that area.
PS I just checked StreetView. There's definitely no PA Bicycle Route S sign there (turn on to Buckwalter).
PPS There's actually a series of missing signs from there to Valley Park Road. I've reported them to PennDOT, and we'll see if they get them fixed by the next CtC, which, oh God, I'm somehow thinking about doing again.
2015-03-16 13:22:50
I thought some signs near Valley Forge Christian College were missing. But maybe by then something was going wrong with my brain. Probably… OK, definitely. Still, I had no problem following the signs except in that area. PS I just checked StreetView. There’s definitely no PA Bicycle Route S sign there (turn on to Buckwalter).Hah! Dan G. and I got lost at that intersection four years ago.
2015-03-16 19:26:39
Had my second nightmare Saturday night about doing this again.
2015-03-16 21:49:25
I actually recall being confused around Valley Forge — but my brain being so fried I could not even tell what direction I was facing... WITH a compass... AND with the late afternoon sun (which would indicate it is in the WEST) hahaha.
I know I felt like I was going the wrong way — but then I found myself at the Schuylkill River trail.
2015-03-17 13:34:11
As part of my century training ride today, I rode the trail from McKeesport to West Newton and back. What wasn't sandy and soft was bumpy and rutted. Not looking forward to 90 miles of that. Hoping for some improvement!
2015-04-04 19:00:45
There won't be.
2015-04-04 19:03:23
Ugh.
2015-04-04 19:21:32
Traditionally, the 15-mile segment from Confluence to Rockwood has the consistency of gritty 2-inch-deep peanut butter for every eastbound CtC.
Something to look forward to...
2015-04-06 09:29:32
When I did it it wasn't that bad until the end, on the aforementioned stretch to Rockwood. It started raining. If I'd been going a bit faster (ha) I would have missed the rain. As it was, I ended up getting covered with limestone mud. Went everywhere, into my bag, etc. Fenders recommended, unless you want, as Stef said, type 3 fun.
In case you were wondering,
Type 1 Fun = What most people call fun. When you're doing it, you say, this is fun! Afterwards, you say, that was fun!
Type 2 Fun = When you're doing it you say, this is the most stupid idea I ever had. Afterwards you say, that was fun!
Type 3 Fun = When you're doing it, you say, this is the most stupid idea I ever had. Afterwards you say, that was the most stupid idea I ever had.
2015-04-06 09:40:55
Stefb and Reddan.....I was planning on running with my Conti All Season 25mm's. Do you think 28mm's are a better option?
2015-04-06 09:41:31
I'd go with 28s over 25s, yeah. It'll help on the GAP, and on the (many) paved roads where the surface is poor.
That said, if I had to choose between 28s bare and 25s with fenders, I'd think really hard about the 25s with fenders. As Jon mentioned, fenders are choice if you wish to avoid some of the muck spray and keep your drivetrain slightly less filthy before the 300 miles of pavement begins.
2015-04-06 09:49:06
thanks for the info....fenders aren't an option, so i'll look at some 28s...
2015-04-06 10:20:39
If you don't have fender mounts, you can buy fenders similar to these:
http://m.jensonusa.com/!KZbZnFPZ58E9WuEFbW4eWQ!/SKS-Raceblade-Road-Fenders?utm_source=FRGL&utm_medium=organic&gclid=CjwKEAjw3YipBRDL2bHhjLmFkQsSJADtzktjXrqyAbR9jqRCe-tvwLZhddtKrGKHO4xR7V3dmkbwoxoC4E_w_wcB
2015-04-06 14:28:04
Checked my clearance and there's not a chance of fitting any fenders. Thanks though.
2015-04-06 17:57:09
Those fenders (Stef pointed to) are not the full fenders. They do not go under breaks and they do not go between wheel and sit tube. I put similar on my road bike today (where 25 mm is the maximum tire size). They will keep you clean and kind of dry but not you transmission.
2015-04-06 23:56:11
http://m.rei.com/product/647147/sks-xtra-dry-rear-seatpost-fender?cm_mmc=cse_PLA-_-pla-_-6471470010&mr:trackingCode=19199541-7C93-E011-9A77-001B21631C34&mr:referralID=NA&mr:device=m&mr:adType=plaonline&mr:ad=74537624800&mr:keyword=&mr:match=&mr:filter=127505071240&msid=FGMv9Ui7_dm%7Cpcrid%7C74537624800%7C
This is what I run on my commuter. It is an adequate rear fender that is easy to put on and take off, and better than nothing. but of course, I know my legs and feet will get wet. It is a tight fit with the rear blinky and the fender on the seat post, since I am not a tall person.
2015-04-07 06:28:26
Stefb, is there a similar fender or half fender for the front wheel?
2015-04-07 10:02:58
Not that I know of. Sometimes people will use these kind of fenders. Not sure how these would work. Of course, the more coverage, the dryer you will be.
http://m.rei.com/product/647148/sks-shockboard-front-fender?cm_mmc=cse_PLA-_-pla-_-6471480019&mr:trackingCode=31821068-A7A3-DE11-93DB-0019B9C043EB&mr:referralID=NA&mr:device=m&mr:adType=plaonline&mr:ad=74537624800&mr:keyword=&mr:match=&mr:filter=127505071240&msid=FGMv9Ui7_dm%7Cpcrid%7C74537624800%7C
2015-04-07 10:58:53
I use these:
http://ecom1.planetbike.com/7017_2.html
no eyelets / fittings required on the bike, and you can trim them so they don't pass through the fork crown or brake bridge.
there are also these, but I have not used them: http://www.crudproducts.com/roadracer-mk2/
2015-04-07 11:49:32
Thanks Stef and Tom. I think I'm going to try just the rear wheel version for now.
2015-04-08 14:16:36
Any interest in a send-off party of cyclist this year? Two years ago about a half dozen of us pedaled as far as McKeesport and then went to breakfast - you know, like normal people would do.
2015-04-08 14:25:08
I might be up for that. I'm not going to be riding, as one of my sons is graduating Pitt that weekend. But it would be nice to participate somehow.
Oh wait, what the f... I'm not getting up at 5 am Friday just to go have breakfast. Never mind.
2015-04-08 14:34:41
I would go. I have day off that Friday. :)
2015-04-09 06:51:46
For those planning to crush commonwealths in the near future, the upcoming 300K this Saturday would be a lovely way to assess one's CtC readiness, especially as regards carrying gear and assessing lighting systems.
4:50 rider meeting, prompt 5 AM start on Neville Island, pre-registration strongly recommended.
There will also be a 200K on the Sunday before CtC, starting at 7 AM at the Waterfront.
2015-04-09 08:42:21
CtC send-off ride? Sure. But I'd have to be up a lot earlier than 5. If the ride starts at 5, I would have to leave around 3:50 as I did for the 2013 send-off.
2015-04-09 10:27:03
I'm using Race blades and they work better than the reviews indicate. The front was a Royal PITA to install; the back was much easier. http://www.rei.com/product/718392/sks-race-blade-xl-fender.
2015-04-09 11:46:04
Fenders are always a pain in the ass to mount.
Also just a general question regarding the neutral rollout: why is it so far out away from Pittsburgh? Was it because there was no signage and difficult to find the gap in the past? Maybe we ride out that far away from the bell also And I don't notice.
I would love the neutral roll out again this year! We didn't get that in Philly!
2015-04-09 15:25:52
Getting on the Gap was pretty complicated the first few years, including one year when I think the main road was closed an we went through Braddock to get to Mckeesport.
I'm hoping to be at the start this year, no promises though. It seems like the neutral start from the Pittsburgh side isn't really needed anymore, as other than getting from the Point to the trail, it isn't hard to get to McKeesport any more.
2015-04-10 10:35:26
I'm thinking of doing the 200K to ohio and back to condition for the ride.
The last time I did the trail from Pittsburgh to Cumberland, the GAP was nice and solid most of the way except for the rain. Once it rains it turns into peanut butter, but seems to dry out quickly.
As long as it stays dry (HA!) for a few days before those 90 miles, you might get a few MPH+ out of it. I rode that crap once when they were laying down a new layer of limestone between Connellsville through the state park and beyond — and it was MISERABLE. Felt like trying to ride the length of Assateague Island on a road bike.
2015-04-13 12:14:38
Any reports of road closures? I remember having to detour off of the trail and onto a parallel road outside of Philly because of trail work.
2015-04-13 20:14:01
Anyone else shooting for a sub 30 hour time? My training buddies have backed out and it'd be good to have company in the wee hours of the night.
2015-04-14 12:05:43
I thought about sub30. I can do 100k comfortably in 5 hours and can sustain that pace (including stops), for up to a 300k. Weather and trail conditions change that. It is possible, but I don't know if I want to burn up my energy going too fast and have nothing at the end.
2015-04-14 17:47:21
I'm going to try to keep it to fewer / shorter stops (every 60 or so miles). My plan is to keep it slow and steady at 15 mph moving average and 13.5 average overall. This is in line with previous efforts but I've always stopped for a sleep break in the past.
2015-04-14 18:43:27
I have a rental car booked from downtown Philly to drop off at the PGH airport for Monday the 27th.
I plan on doing "Sub 66" — since all I give a shit about is beating my last time. My overall average (with breaks and everything else) on my last DC trip was 10mph, but I got to Harper's Ferry on the 2nd day and COULD have gone to DC if I wanted, but I have a good friend who lives in Harper's Ferry.
If anyone wants to split the cost of the car home I'd be down with that. Due to the lack of a bike rack, I can probably only fit one other person by cramming wheel-less bikes in the back seat and wheels in the trunk.
When getting back to Pittsburgh we can swing by my house and grab my truck — and take the rental car to the airport and then back to your place.
I'd be looking for a place to crash in Philly if anyone knows of anything — if not, I'll be fine.
You can send me an email at adam@bikingundertheinfluence.com if you are interested in splitting a car/gas — it is the quickest way to get in touch.
-peace-
2015-04-15 09:41:39
Roll call?
2015-04-19 08:56:39
+1
2015-04-19 10:12:56
I'll be tacking the train out from Chicago again. Hopefully eastbound will treat me better- I left 7 hours late last year and experienced nearly every variety of bad weather.
I don't expect to do sub-30, but I would like to ride through the night and arrive while it's still Saturday.
If anyone has a companion/ride home driving from Pittsburgh, could you help a guy out by schlepping a travel bag?
Pretty stoked to repeat my best-worst idea ever and meet y'all
Nate
2015-04-19 11:18:52
I'm in. First time and hoping for 40 Hrs but will be happy with a finish.
2015-04-19 13:40:28
I have the same goal as I have every year, and that is to finish. I don't need to hurt myself or have a totally miserable time. This is just a 600k to me.
2015-04-19 13:45:05
I was pretty sure I was out for this year anyway, but breaking the seat frame on my distance 'bent during a 200K today clinched the deal.
*grumblegrumblewhinegripe*
*poormepoormeallmyotherbikessuckfordistance*
*firstworldproblems*
2015-04-19 15:17:54
+1 Mike from Brooklyn
2015-04-19 18:23:04
may I ask, when do most of you expect to be at the Pike2Bike tunnel?
2015-04-20 08:34:51
Abandoned turnpike tunnels? Hoping by dark, but it depends on how much the limestone at the beginning slows me down.
Are you planning on being there, V? It can be startling if it is dark and someone off in the shadows is hanging around in the tunnels.
2015-04-20 09:09:04
Punchcard - I plan on shooting for a similar time goal and plan on riding through the night and would love company. I did ~200 miles yesterday from Philly to York and back and averaged 16.7 on the way out with a tail wind and 14.8 back with a head wind. I took two short Turkey Hill breaks to refill on liquids, add some variety and spontaneity in my food intake and reapply sunblock at the 1/3 and 2/3 point in Lancaster.
For those who have ridden both the GAP trail (I have not ridden west of the Abandoned Turnpike section in PA) and either the Schuylkill River Trail north of Phoenixville or the Perkiomen Trail near Valley Forge, are they similar in surface conditions and speed? Those are both pretty hard packed and don't slow me down too much, but if it's loose, large gravel, I could see that making a considerable speed and time impact, especially for a relatively long section of the CtC route.
2015-04-20 09:50:40
The GAP is crushed limestone. I ride it on 700x25 all the time without much problem. When it rains the surface gets softer. I've found that it dries pretty fast though after a rain.
The only time the surface has truly "sucked" — was the time when they were re-surfacing a long stretch of trail from Connellsville to Ohiopyle. It was like riding on wet concrete for 20 miles. They were literally laying it down and rolling it that day. That section is quite nice now that it has been hard-packed over time.
I have slicks on right now, and I haven't found any tires at a bike shop yet that make me want to do a swap.
If you can deal with the absolute mind-numbing and tire-lever snapping tightness of the Continental Tour-Ride tires, they have a nice tread to keep your rear wheel from slipping on the dirt and are quite puncture resistant. I rode to DC twice, and once to Cumberland and back on the same set of tires, (along with general commuting), before I ever had a puncture on them. And the front tire is still in fine condition from that set.
I can't find them other than online sources and I don't have time now to wait being this close to the "launch date."
2015-04-20 10:10:06
Saturday I jumped on the GAP at Confluence and biked through Rockwood. The trail is a bit soft but manageable, I expect it to be softer due to rain Sunday night - it's supposed to rain this evening as well. I'm no speedster. I managed about 11 - 13 mph on the trail. Once I hit the road in Rockwood, mph ranged 14 - 16+. There are a lot of broken limbs sticks and such. There is a down tree about 5 miles from Rockwood. It looked like there was a marker to have it removed by trail workers. Stay to the right on the Pinkerton bypass. I saw a small hole on the left. Be careful exiting the bypass to the bridge and just after the bridge. It's just plain wet.
2015-04-20 10:17:12
That report makes me want to look a little harder for some tires with tread this week!
2015-04-20 10:32:09
2015-04-20 10:43:58
LOL. Every weather app has been giving me completely different predictions every day for the last month. And somehow all of them tend to be wrong!
I just tell people to be prepared for the worst, especially for this thing. I don't think I've ever covered 400 miles on a bike without getting rained on. Even on my nicest long distance rides there would be some random freak rainfall for half an hour at some point.
April is volatile and you never really know what the weather will be until the day arrives.
2015-04-20 10:49:31
Thanks for the trail update. Seems like my tires should be just fine and it shouldn't be too big of a hit to the average speed, especially so early on when we're all fresh.
Looking at the map of Point State Park, it looks sizable. Where in the park will we be meeting? The FAQ mentions under the highway underpass, but that appeared to be a joking reference to the miserable and rainy conditions that the CtC appears to be ridden in on frequent occasion.
I'm not sure what my breakfast plans are at the moment, but are there any awesome places that I should try nearby that would be open at 4AM? I love trying out bakeries/donut shops, but a 24 hour diner would be a solid choice as well to prefuel.
2015-04-20 11:09:13
I'm running 32 Panaracer T-Serves and didn't have issue.
2015-04-20 11:15:21
I believe we are to meet at the fountain. The park was under repair and there was no access to the fountain the last time and that is why the meeting place was under the bridge.
2015-04-20 14:06:30
The only diner I can possibly think of that would be open that early — and it's a bit of a haul from downtown — would be (C)Ritter’s on Baum Blvd. From downtown you can take Liberty all the way out there, make a right on Baum, and it's right there. It's about 5 miles each way from Point Park.
I don't even think fast food joints are open that early downtown.
2015-04-20 14:09:30
@Cap'nChaos
For breakfast I just down some ensure and an energy bar.
I assume we'll meet under the bridge if it's raining or at the fountain otherwise but just look for the blinking lights.
If you want to join me for the 30 hours you are very welcome. I'll mail you my race plan if you email me: paulkilroy at yahoo.
2015-04-20 15:19:14
Don't eat at ritter's. There is a reason people around here call it Shitter's. It is good food but not the kind of food you want to eat before ctc. There is a giant eagle express on Baum that is 24 hours. That is the closest to the start that I can think of, besides the one on Carson.. I think that is 24 hours also and has some type of mto going on.
2015-04-20 18:29:47
I just spent a few minutes checking the webs and it seems that most of the breakfast joints in the downtown/strip/southside area don't open until 6am or so.
There are two Get-Go's (think Sheetz) in southside that are open 24hr with MTO - one at 18th street & Sarah, and one on Carson Street by the FBI building. Both are about 4 miles from Point State Park.
There is an Eat-n-Park (24hr dinner) at the waterfront in Homestead, but that is 9 miles away (but right on the GAP and you'll pass it soon enough). If you are driving to the start this might be your best bet.
2015-04-20 19:19:18
hey does anyone have an accurate gps file?
I got super confused on the trail as it approached philly. is it best to exit the trail at the museum or to ride to what looks like the end of the trail and get onto the streets at cherry street?
Dan, i think you posted one before but i don't have it anymore.
2015-04-20 20:30:40
From Dan's route list:
http://ridewithgps.com/routes/235886 -- East bound
http://ridewithgps.com/routes/892966 -- West bound
2015-04-21 02:53:04
I had no idea it has gone from "Critters" to "Shitters"
My bad :-)
I also got lost near the end of the trail in Philly now that I recall. I actually rode straight into a big thick steel cable stretched across what I thought was the "trail" — but it had enough give that I was slowed down like I just ran into an arrestor hook on an aircraft carrier vs. thrown over the handlebars. It was at night though.
I ended up getting off and riding through the neighborhoods until I could find the bell. I got some iced coffee from a Dunkn' Donuts with 6" thick bulletproof glass — where they handed it to me through a slot in the window, and got chased by many pleasant people through the streets of northern Philly yelling "NICE BIKE, SLOW DOWN YO!!!!!"
Taking a cue sheet this time :-)
2015-04-21 08:39:17
I'm too excited to be very productive this week at work. So my loss in productivity is your gain.
Decided I want to roll with a cue sheet this time binder clipped to my handlebars. Here's a PDF if anyone wants. I grabbed Dan's cue sheet, and some other graphics from people. The type is REALLY small, so hopefully my printer is high enough res to make it readable.
I'm gonna laminate some of these to fold into 4 x 6 quadrants. If anyone wants one, just holla or grab a PDF below...
http://bit.ly/1Dd3FeQ
2015-04-21 11:44:46
Good luck all you CTC'ers.
After finally riding east to west last year I was really, really looking forward to trying it the "easy" way this year, but alas I'm a no go. I'm presently so fat, lazy and out of shape I'd surely crumple in a sad heap before ever making it off the GAP Trail.
Tailwinds and safe travels - keep the rubber side down! I'll be thinking of you and can't wait to read the stories.
Ron A. from Joisey
2015-04-22 15:29:29
Good luck to all of the participants!
2015-04-24 07:46:05
I loved this photo from Mike Smedes Instagram account (who is, BTW, followed by Barack Obama).
2015-04-24 08:20:18
I rode with the pack for a while, dropped back to stay with a couple of cyclists bringing up the rear, and finally stopped at the river crossing at McKeesport around 6:30ish. I don't know who else in the crowd was riding along on the send-off ride, but I didn't see them peel off.
Looked like about 25 riders (obviously some were locals on the send-off ride). Maybe four women? Not an accurate count, but probably close. I got some dark, shaky video at the start, which I'll post later.
2015-04-24 09:43:57
Mike Smedes post says there were 45 at the start. Maybe that includes some tag-alongs.
2015-04-24 09:50:24
Impressive for such a shoddily run affair.
2015-04-24 10:30:47
Minimalist - not "Shoddy"
2015-04-24 10:33:51
From Twitter (@smicycle): Mike Smedes's derailleur is wrecked. Does anybody want to pick him up from Ohiopyle?
2015-04-24 11:04:27
Send-off video. I'd guess closer to 25, but have a look if you want to count.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ICSCZwlfNNo
2015-04-24 11:27:11
From Twitter (@smicycle): Mike Smedes’s derailleur is wrecked. Does anybody want to pick him up from Ohiopyle?I don't have a tweeter account. Is he still need a ride?
2015-04-24 13:19:39
I haven't heard anything else. I'll ask and let you know by PM if I hear anything.
2015-04-24 13:24:39
Send you my cell# via PM.
2015-04-24 13:31:21
Mike is back in action. https://instagram.com/p/13lOCiutq1/
2015-04-24 14:03:41
I'm sure Barack is jealous. Just think, one of the things he can't do is Crush the Commonwealth.
2015-04-24 14:18:50
Hmmm, drone bike?
2015-04-24 14:21:22
While 30 minutes of following blinking taillights might get a tad tedious, I sped up my front video 8x and captured the transition from complete darkness to fairly bright out.
5:40 - passing South Side Works, everything is black
5:58 - passing Waterfront, can easily see everything
https://youtu.be/FnNqmJoylmY
2015-04-24 14:57:07
First male finishers: Gavin & Brett
First female finisher: Stefb
2015-04-25 13:34:20
Hard people.
2015-04-25 14:02:25
Do we have official results?
We started at 5:15am (aka Pittsburgh time):
Gavin and Brett were first at what time? Congrats dudes. Impressive.
The guy training for RAAM got there like 2 minutes before me (he and I got on the trail at slightly different spots.. For real, the old file I have seemed to have had us go in circles.. Should have checked updated files). Paul? Man, I rode many miles with him and I am still derpy.
I got in at 1:16PM
who else? I see hashtags on different social media sites, but I can't put them together.
Dan B counted nearly 40 people starting. 40. Wow.
Great job everyone. Even with dry weather and great GAP conditions, the race is tough.
2015-04-25 20:10:15
I finished at 3:11 pm. Stopped at 3am when it got too cold my soft self.
Congrats Gavin and Brett!
-Paul
2015-04-25 20:25:00
Jonawebb wrote "First male finishers: Gavin & Brett
First female finisher: Stefb"
Congratulations to Gavin, Brett, and Stef B, as well as all of the participants.
2015-04-26 03:30:25
Sarah and Tom finished at 3:20 pm Saturday.
I had the official start time at 5:15am.
2015-04-26 21:10:35
http://stefannburch.blogspot.com/2015/04/2015-crush-commonwealth-now-with-less.html
this may or may not make sense, and it may contain many errors, both factual and grammatical
2015-04-26 21:58:42
Sunday 4:00 AM Total Time: 46:45
Gerry Durishan
John Maletta
Suz Falvey
2015-04-28 09:10:36
So did all of the ladies make it in? There were 5 that started?
2015-04-28 10:05:36
@stefb I didn't see Erica from Manhattan post anything. She was very strong on day 1
Also haven't seen anything from the two younger guys from Pittsburgh that were the first ones into chambersburg (I think)
2015-04-28 11:49:06
Erica finished Saturday evening around 40 hrs. http://iconosquare.com/p/971313160414190174_1286507453
2015-04-28 12:18:25
10:09am Sunday for me. Fell short of my goals, but improved 10 hours over last year and hit my first ever double centruy within a 24 hour period. Hopefully, I won the "over 220lb" division!
2015-04-28 13:27:58
Awesome time improvement, shawn.
I am pretty sure I was the heaviest female there at 150. Actually, I am sure I weigh more than some of the guys who rode. I consider it fuel reserve hahah.
2015-04-28 16:19:53
Sarah and Noah ran into trouble. I don't think they finished.
2015-04-28 17:04:48
My jaw drops just thinking about any of you guys.
2015-04-28 17:15:00
I (Erica from Manhattan) finished at 8:48 Saturday, just behind Nick and Bob, after a much-needed 6 hour sleep stop in Chambersburg and some bonus miles in Lancaster County.
Big thanks to many, many kind people, including Gavin, Doug, Paul, Sarah and Tom, and some others whose names I was too wiped to remember.
What a ride!
2015-04-29 09:08:34
Thanks to Stef, I updated the website with finishing times. Commenting should work again as well.
http://www.crushthecommonwealth.com/2015/04/26/2015-results/
2015-06-18 12:50:06