Note: Dan is paraphrasing excerpts from Liz’s ride journal.
The official first day of the ride did not involve riding at all – it was the first gathering of the group. Late on Thursday afternoon we got a chance to meet each other. It was also a chance for the 2 group leaders to go over a lot of logistics. The group leaders were responsible for dinner so they “demonstrated” the process which each of us would get the chance to do many times over the next few months. I’ll provide more logistics info over the next few posts.
The two group leaders take turns driving and cycling. The one cycling is called the “sweep” as they are going to follow the last riders and make sure no one is left out on the route. Cyclists are not bound to ride together or to hit any certain pace. It’s fine to stop and take in the scenery, find a good cup of coffee or perhaps lunch, or maybe veer a bit off course to see or do something specific.
The van tows the trailer which contains all our personal camping gear, cooking gear, and shared supplies. It can carry everyone as well as all the bikes on its roof racks. The van is used to make grocery or other supply runs and if there are places where it is not legal or safe to cycle we can all load into the van and shuttle past.