Frequently Asked Questions
Is it a race?
No! Unless you want it to be.
Riders may choose a relaxed, wonderful day on the bike. But those wishing for a competitive element are in luck! There are two timed segments: Bergen Park to Juniper Pass and Loveland Ski Area to Loveland Pass.
Is it well-supported?
Yes! Extremely well, in fact.
You'll find it's one of the best-supported rides you’ve done (you’ll find them all marked on the official route)!
No support vehicles are permitted on the course, and no personal support (vehicles or people) is allowed at Aid Stations 1, 2, or 4. However, Aid Station 3 and Copper Mountain allow spectators and families to park and meet up with you!
How much time will it take?
Lots! And it depends on you. 😅
There are too many factors to suggest an average, but stronger riders should expect at least seven hours of riding. Despite the distance, it goes by quickly, thanks to a few insanely-fast descents!
How’s the weather?
Hard to say. Mountains make for unpredictable weather.
tl;dr: Frequently check weather observations in the days leading up to the event! In particular, note these weather stations along the route:
There isn’t a good answer here apart from general guidelines.
Midsummer temperatures in the Rocky Mountains are typically comfortable, and most riders will embark without any extra clothing, but you should be prepared for colder temperatures. Additionally, consider temperature loss as you climb. The standard lapse rate is useful for estimating temperature at higher elevations: there is approximately a loss of 3.5º F per 1,000 feet of elevation gain. For example, consider the Buchanan Park to Juniper Pass segment. On this climb, you’ll gain nearly 3,200 feet. If the temperature in Buchanan Park is 70º F, expect Juniper Pass to be about 11º F cooler, at 59º F.
The wind is consistently a factor, especially at higher elevations. Consider leaving your fancy deep-dish race wheels at home for this ride. These can make descending in gusty conditions dangerous.
Precipitation is, perhaps, the hardest to predict. It’s not uncommon for a clear, sunny day to turn sour with scattered showers or even snow. If conditions turn severe, take them seriously and seek shelter. The last place you want to be during a thunderstorm is on a mountain pass.
Anecdotally, the 2019 edition saw clear skies and balmy weather from start to finish. By contrast, the 2022 edition saw nearly every foul condition possible (luckily, nothing bad enough to cancel the event).
Do I need special gearing?
Maybe. Although, probably not.
This is highly dependent on your strength and riding style.
There's little gear-mashing on the Triple Bypass route: a few steep sections after Georgetown (before Loveland Basin) and Vail Pass. Most riders should feel comfortable tapping out a healthy cadence without compact cranks or large cassettes.
However, if you’re more comfortable with a brisk spin, you may want to adjust.
Is there a shorter route?
Yes! Try the Double Bypass option.
You may ride the Double Bypass, which starts at the Easterseals Rocky Mountain Village Camp, 5 miles east of Georgetown. Skipping Juniper Pass, you’ll get 78 still-epic miles over Loveland Pass and Vail Pass!
Is elevation a factor?
Yes! Really. Exactly how much depends on the rider.
Nearly the entire Triple Bypass course is over 8,000 feet above sea level and flirts with 12,000 feet at Loveland Pass. And those of you who ride with power meters and aren’t yet acclimated will notice much lower numbers.
If you're new to riding at these altitudes, arrive early in Colorado and acclimate by riding along the course at points from Idaho Springs, Georgetown, or Frisco, or at least in the foothills west of Denver.
Want more advice? Watch Natalie Raborn of High Road Coaching answer the question about altitude!
Got another question?
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