Q. What’s included and what am I responsible for?
The TNHBR covers everything you need from the start of the ride to the end including meals (starting on Day 1 of the ride), Saturday & Sunday night lodging, and transportation to the start of the rides.
Riders on the 3-day ride are responsible for their Thursday night meals and accommodation. Riders on the 2-day ride are responsible for their Friday night meals and accommodation.
Q. When does my ride “start”?
The details of the 37th annual Trans-NH Bike Ride are still being finalized. However, we’re anticipating something along these lines:
- The 3-day ride starts at 7:30 AM with bus transportation to Beecher’s Falls.
- The 2-day ride starts at 8:00 AM from the Hampton Inn parking lot.
- The 1-day ride starts at 8:00 AM from the Fireside Inn parking lot in West Lebanon.
Q. What support is provided for cyclists during the ride?
There is so much support! We pride ourselves on offering rest stops approximately every 20-miles. Each rest stop offers water, Gatorade energy drink, bananas, oranges, PB & J sandwiches, energy bars, pickles, and other goodies as well as smiling faces and lots of encouragement from our wonderful Support Crew.
We also provide sunscreen, Tums, and ibuprofen.
There is a Support and Guidance (SAG) vehicle that trails behind riders to sweep the ride route as well as roving support vehicles to assist riders with mechanical or on-the-road issues. We ask that all riders leave their bikes on the side of road where they are visible for the support vehicles that pass.
For extra safety, we ask that all riders sign in at rest stops to ensure that everyone is accounted for.
Q. What if I’m not familiar with the route – will I get lost?
Absolutely not! The TNHBR has never lost a rider. We mark each day’s route with signs at all major turns and intersections. We also provide riders with maps and turn-by-turn instructions for each day’s route. For those with GPS devices, like Garmin, we provide GPS route information.
Q. I don’t know anyone – who will I ride with?
The TNHBR has riders of all levels and abilities so our experiences tell us that pretty much everyone ends up finding someone they can ride with. Even if you are riding with others who are going too fast, and you drop back – other riders will come along. Most importantly, even the last rider will always be accompanied by the SAG vehicle – we don’t leave anyone out on the road.
Q. Can I ride my mountain or gravel bike?
The 2024 TNHBR follows a paved route so while a gravel bike may work for you, we don’t recommend a mountain bike for this ride. A road bike is preferred. However, if you only have a mountain bike, consider using road slicks rather than knobby tires.
Additionally, if riding gravel paths is important to you and something you want to see in future TNHBR events, please tell a board member – your input matters!
Q. What do I need to bring with me?
For riding, the following items are mandatory:
- Helmet (no more than 5 years old)
- Bike (well maintained)
Then, we suggest these additional items:
- Eye protection
- Padded cycling shorts
- Cycling jersey
- Cycling socks
- Cycling shoes
- Water bottles (more than 1 is preferred)
- Tubes, patch kit, tire levers, and pump
- Sunscreen
During the ride, it’s often necessary to shed layers. Riders can leave gear and any excess layers with our support crew — they’ll return it to you at the end of the day’s ride. Clothing left with support can be collected in the massage area.
Q. What if my bike breaks during the ride?
We have a mechanic as part of the support crew on the road and available at the end of each day. The mechanic will do what they can to keep you going if you have a mechanical issue during the ride. Additionally, transportation is provided if you are not able to finish the day’s ride due to bike issues. Any parts and supplies to repair your bike are the responsibility of the rider. Finally, we ask all riders to complete a Bike Form to verify they’ve maintained their bike and it’s ready for the ride.
Q. What is the purpose of the Bike Form?
For your safety, as well as other riders and support crew, we ask all riders to get their bike maintained and tuned up before the ride, so we don’t put an undue burden on our mechanic’s resources. The mechanics donate their time to this event. We confirm that all riders have well-tuned bikes to ensure that our mechanics’ time and resources are used efficiently.
Q. Can minors participate in the ride?
Yes! Minors who are at least 16 years of age may participate in the ride when accompanied by a parent or guardian. Riders who are under 16 may only participate in the ride with prior permission from the Board.
Q. Where do I mail my donations?
Donations should be mailed to the following address and include this form:
Muscular Dystrophy Association Inc.
P.O. Box 7410354
Chicago, IL 60674-0354
Q. Who should checks be made out to?
Checks should be made out to: Muscular Dystrophy Association or MDA.