Decoding GABA's Day Ride Code

Ride Rating Format (what you see posted with the ride title)

Key

Pace/terrain/mileage

Example

C/2/30

Explanation

C pace, 2 terrain/ 30 miles

Pace Description (actual end of ride average may be less if terrain is more challenging)

A

20+ mph

Elite/Race Pace/Strenuous

These are semi-competitive, physically demanding rides with high average speeds for extended distances. Riders are expected to be fully competent with pace lines, sprints, intervals, etc. Dropped riders will probably be on their own or a few members of the group might be willing to stop and lend assistance, including "pulls" to rejoin the main group. There is no obligation to wait for a rider to catch up. Infrequent stops for water and regroupings.

B+

18-20 mph

Fast Training/Advanced Workout

For strong experienced cyclists with substantial group riding experience wishing to improve riding skills as well as physical fitness. Expect pace lines, and some sprinting, intervals, etc. Stragglers or individuals with mechanical difficulties might be left behind or a few members of the group might stop and lend assistance, including "pulls" to rejoin the main group. There is no obligation to wait for a rider to catch up. Infrequent stops for water and regroupings. Although physically challenging, emphasis is still on group riding for fun.

B

16-18 mph

Brisk/Fitness

For experienced cyclists with group riding experience wishing to improve individual and group riding skills as well as physical fitness. Some sprinting and intervals, etc. Occasional stops to regroup. Although physically challenging, emphasis is still on group riding for fun. Anyone not able to keep up or having mechanical difficulties might be left by the Leader/group, Check with the group leader before the ride.

C+

14-16 mph

Moderate Touring/Non-Competitive

For solid cyclists competent with safety and bike handling skills - should be experienced riding in a group. Occasional stops and regroupings as designated by the ride leader. Group format with the pace and distance set to encourage group discussion and socializing. Individuals experiencing mechanical difficulties can expect a few members of the group to stop and lend assistance, including "pulls" to rejoin the main group.

C 

12-14 mph

Social Touring/Easy Recovery (Regroup)

For riders with knowledge of basic safety and bike handling skills - may or may not have experience riding in a group. Group format with the pace set to encourage socializing, - individuals should not ride too far ahead of the group (i.e., out of sight of the rest of the group). This social pace ride regroups every 30-60 minutes and waits for slower riders. No one will be left to ride alone behind the group. Anyone with mechanical difficulties can expect the group to stop and lend assistance.

D

8-12 mph

Leisurely/Relaxed/Beginner (No drop)

For families, individuals, children, and those who like a slower pace. Group will wait for stragglers, stop as needed and regroup often. Some riding skills required. "D" rides are for steady riders who may not feel comfortable riding alone in traffic. These are friendly, social rides with emphasis on fun as well as learning basic safety and bicycling skills. Expect to ride as a group - no one will be left to ride alone behind the group. Anyone having mechanical or physical difficulties can expect the group to stop and lend assistance.

Terrain Description

1

Flat

(as much as possible) Central Tucson and areas of Avra Valley, Old Nogales Hwy, 1-10 and 1-19 Frontage Roads

2

Minor Hills

Tangerine Road, Ventana Canyon, Old Spanish Trail, Mission Hills Road

3

Moderate Hills

Westbound Gates Pass, Picture Rocks Road, Freeman Road, Helmet Peak Road

4

Long Climbs or Very Steep

Sentinel Peak, Madera Canyon, Sabino Mountain Road, Eastbound Gates Pass