Bicycle TOUR frequently asked questions

Q: How many days do I need you ride?

A: One week of cycling will consist of six days on the road and one rest day.  For those who can, plan ahead to take time to ride multiple weeks.  There are four possible weeks in Western Canada and two weeks in Eastern. 

Q: How many kilometres will I need to cycle per day?

A: The average distance to cycle will be 120-140 km per day.  While this may seem overwhelming to many, with training and determination a person with average fitness can complete the ride.

Q: I am not a ‘cyclist’ and haven’t ridden in years, can I still join?

A: Cycling every day for two to four weeks is challenging. You’ll enjoy it more by preparing and training. With proper preparation and training nearly everyone can meet this challenge. You’ll be surprised by what you can do.

 Your training should start now with some indoor riding. Then, as soon as the roads clear, start with some one hour rides two times a week.

 By May you will need to add in a longer weekly ride of 60-70 km (or more if your training is going well). We recommend building up from shorter rides three times a week (this could be a commute to work, for instance) to adding in a weekend ride of 50 - 70 km. In June before the ride do at least one 110+ km ride.  Also find three days in a row of cycling with 70 - 100km each day.  This three day mini-tour will make a big difference once you begin "The Ride".  Remember to include varied terrain into your training rides.

 Q: What type of bicycle do I need?

A: Bring the bike you are most comfortable riding.  The Ride is a road tour and will stay on paved roads (expect for construction, and unforeseen circumstances). It’s recommended you use a road bike (such as a touring bike or '10 speed' bike).  Hybrid bikes are also a good option.  If you opt to bring a mountain bike, it is highly recommended to have city or slick tires on the bike.  It is not recommended to bring a single speed bike without gears as the varied terrain will make riding this type of bike difficult for 6-8 hours per day.

If you are purchasing a bike, consult your local bike shop to test the bike that is the best fit for you. A $700+ bicycle will add to your enjoyment and help you complete the tour because they take less effort to ride 20+ km/h.

Q: How much money do I need to raise?

A: We are asking each rider to raise a minimum of $1000 per week they ride.  These donations are tax-deducible in line with the CRA charitable donations.

Q: Where will I be sleeping?

A: See the Accommodations Page

Q: Are meals provided?

A: All meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) will be provided.  Breakfast and Dinner will be at the “base camp”.  For lunch you will make your own lunch at breakfast time with food provided.  You will carry your lunch with you and eat it when you would like.

You are also able to stop at any store or restaurant and purchase snacks and food at your own cost.

Q: Is there transportation provided before and after the tour?

A: It is your own responsibility to get yourself to the beginning of the tour and home again.  All the of cities where the tour begins and ends have regular scheduled trains, buses, and airplanes. All of these will carry your bicycle when it is packed in a box.  If you don't know how to pack a bicycle see your local bike shop as they can provide a box and help you with this.  If you are riding with a group many times people will car pool in a van.  Another idea is to have your family drop you off or pick you up.  

Q: What age must I be to ride? (Can I ride with my son or daughter?)

A: The majority of the riders will be in their 20’s and up to their 60’s.  There will be a few teens and even some riders in their 70’s.  

You must be at least 13 years old by the Ride 2012 date in order to be a Tour Rider. If between the ages of  13 and 18, please note that you MUST have a guardian on the Ride 2012 as a fellow rider, registered Tour Rider or Tour Crew member.

Q: How do people sponsor me?

A: Once you are registered, people can find your name on the www.ride2012.ca website and sponsor directly on the website.  They can also mail a cheque and sponsorship form.