Frequently Asked Questions

There are three different ride lengths with three different registration and start times. If you miss the start time of the ride you registered for, you will not be able to head out onto the road until the NEXT start time. If you miss the start time for the 10-mile route, you will not be permitted to ride.

Every rider must wear a helmet to participate in Cycle of Support; no exceptions.

As we continue to see record-breaking temperatures across the world, it's vital that everyone take steps to protect themselves against the dangers of overheating. Riding your bike, especially in long rides like the Cycle of Support, increases the risks and so demands we be especially aware and careful. 

Stay Hydrated.

It's very easy to underestimate the amount of fluid your body needs. Be sure to bring plenty of liquids on your ride and aim to take small, frequent sips, which helps your body more efficiently absorb water. If your bike only holds one bottle cage, consider adding another. Even if you think you have enough water, refill when the opportunity arises.

There will be plenty of water and electrolyte drinks at the rest stops and start/finish. Please take every opportunity to rehydrate and assess yourself for any possible signs of heat exhaustion or dehydration, and check on your fellow riders and teammates. Signs of dehydration include:

• headaches
• thirst
• dizziness
• irritable mood
• mental fog

Water is always a good option to help rehydrate you and cool your body temperature down, but on a hot day or after even moderate physical exertion, water alone may not be enough. When you sweat, you lose electrolytes through perspiration and risk dehydration if you don’t replenish these lost nutrients. To properly hydrate, your body needs a mix of balanced electrolytes and minerals that allows your body to quickly absorb the electrolytes and water, hydrating you faster.

Avoid Heat Exposure

What you decide to wear can largely affect how your body will react to the sun and heat. We suggest choosing clothes made from fabrics that provide sun protection and wick moisture away from your body.  Some may opt for sleeveless tops to stay cool, but we recommend wearing sleeves made of a cooling fabric to avoid sun exposure. On really hot days, wearing a cap or bandana under your helmet can keep sweat out of your eyes. A bandana soaked in cool water and thrown over your face can be particularly refreshing when you stop for a break.

Regardless of what you decide to wear, please be sure to liberally apply sunscreen to any exposed skin. We also recommend bringing along a good pair of sunglasses.

Cool Down After You Ride

Allow time for a post-ride cooldown. In addition to stretching, continue drinking water and energy drinks to replenish your body. Take a moment to listen to your body and look for any signs you may be experiencing dehydration. After any ride, we recommend avoiding drinking alcohol, coffee, or sugary drinks that can dehydrate you further and mask any warning signs.;

Our highest priority will always be rider safety. The ride will proceed “rain or shine” unless we anticipate severe weather or are notified that routes have been compromised because of the weather. In the case of predicted rain, we strongly advise riders to wear appropriate clothing to stay warm and as dry as possible. We will monitor the weather through the National Weather Service leading up to the event and during the event itself.

Severe storms are categorized as those with lightning, severe winds, hail, flooding, and other dangerous conditions. They present a more significant hazard especially as they may appear while riders are on course.