Frequently Asked Questions

Is Dirty Jersey a Race?
Dirty Jersey is a challenging RIDE.  The roads are open to traffic and there are no prizes for finishing order.  The event is essentially a Randonnée (where riders must be self sufficient).  Participants must obey all traffic rules and are responsible for their own safety.

Will we be starting as a group?
There is not a massed start.  Participants will start will be conducted “At-Will”, meaning you may start the Full Course anytime between 6:30 AM – 7:30AM and the Short(er) Course anytime between 7:30AM – 8:30AM).  All riders must finish by 7:30PM (sunset is at 8:30PM).

What type of support does the ride offer?
Cue sheets and GPS Files will be provided to pre-registered participants.  There a post-ride tailgate with food and drink provided.  There are no aid stations.  

Is the Course Marked?
No.  However, a detailed cue sheet and GPS Files will be provided to all pre-registered participants, along with complimentary access to the Ride With GPS App. 

Will there be any SAG, Technical Support or Medical Services?
No, riders must be self sufficient, and capable of making their own minor repairs. 

All participants must bring spare tubes, tires, tools, and anything else you might think is required to perform repairs yourself. Treat this like you would a normal training or club ride.  

However, we have an emergency number so you can call the broom wagon, in case you can’t make it to the finish on your own.   

There will not be emergency medical services on course; thus if you need or see some who requires immediate emergency medical attention, please use your cell to Dial 911. 

Is there an Entry Fee for the Dirty Jersey?
Yes, please see the Registration Page for details

What do I get with my Entry Fee?
You will get a great day on the bike, on a unique and challenging course, and the post ride food & drink

Who is the ride open to?
Dirty Jersey is open to any cyclist who wants to take on the challenge.  Riders under 18 must have the written permission of their parent or guardian.

How do I Register?
On-line registration is available here.

For full details on registration, please visit our Registration Page on the Dirty Jersey website.

Will bad weather cancel Dirty Jersey?
Typically Not. Since this ride is a Randonnée, bad weather comes with the territory, thus the ride is rain or shine. But that said, rider safety is paramount, and if conditions warrant it, the ride will be cancelled or rescheduled.  Please check this website the morning of the ride and on our social media for change notices.  An email message will also be sent to all pre-registered participants.

How Bad are the Unpaved Roads?
The Dirt/Gravel roads and trails on Dirty Jersey are public roads and trails, suitable for regular vehicle use; they just are not sealed with asphalt or other paving material. Many of the unpaved roads are packed dirt (with and without loose gravel on top), but many are also true gravel roads.  The amount of gravel and pot holes vary year-to-year, based upon how hard a winter there has been.  Many of the gravel roads are prone to washboarding.  Some sections of the trails are single track with exposed roots and rocks.

What Type of Bike Should I Ride?
We recommend use of a bike with a minimum tires width of 32mm.  The gravel roads have a lot of washboarding this year, so wider is suggested.  

Can I use a Time Trial, a Triathlon Bike, or a bike with Aero Bars?
No, unfortunately the course is not suitable for such bicycles; it just isn’t safe. 

What Tires Should I use?
No special tread is required.  We recommend using tires of at least 32mm (wider will be better) to improve traction, to increase comfort, and to reduce the chances of punctures.  Knobbies will be slow, especially considering that >50% of the courses are on paved roads.  We recommend you select a tire that will provide a good balance or performance on both the paved and unpaved sections. 

An important thing to consider is tire pressure; most people overinflate their tires, which not only are less comfortable, but often lead to poor traction, and flat tires.

Are there any Awards?
This isn’t a race, so there are no prizes based upon performance.