Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pinelands Gravel a Race?
No, Pinelands Gravel is a challenging RIDE.  The roads are open to traffic and there are no prizes for finishing order.  Participants must obey all traffic rules and are responsible for their own safety.

Will we be starting as a group?
No; this ride offers an “At-Will” start, meaning you can begin your ride at any time during the designated time period.  

What type of support does the ride offer?
Cue sheets and GPS files will be provided to pre-registered participants.  There will be 2 aid stations, SAG, and technical support.  There is a post-ride party.

Is the Course  Marked?
No, not in it’s entirety.  Confusing areas and turns will be marked.  Using GPS files (downloaded and saved to your device in advance of the event) is imperative.  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?
There will be SAG & Technical support, but riders should be 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 club ride or one of your training rides.

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 Pinelands Gravel?
Yes, please see the Registration Page for details

What do I get for my Entry Fee?
You will get a great day on the bike, on a unique and challenging course, and the post ride party

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

How do I Register?
On-line registration is available via BikeReg.  For full details on registration, please visit our Registration Page on the Pinelands Gravel website.

Will bad weather cancel Pinelands Gravel?
Typically Not. Since this ride is an adventure, 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 Sand/Dirt/Gravel roads on Pinelands Gravel are public roads.  Most of the unpaved roads are packed sand, but there is also loose gravel and loose sand sections.  The amount of pot holes varies year-to-year, based upon how hard a winter there has been.  The Sugar Sand can be hard packed or very loose, depending upon temperature and recent weather.  Expect some technical sections. 

What Type of Bike Should I Ride?
We recommend use of a bike with tires at least 32mm wide (35mm+ is better); Cyclocross or Gravel bikes will be best.  Don’t underestimate the sugar sand.  We recommend use of off-road pedals, in case you need to walk any part of the sugar sand sections. 

Can I use a Time Trial Bike, Triathlon Bike, or a Bike with Aero Bars?
No, unfortunately the course is not suitable for such bicycles.  It is an issue of safety

What Tires Should I use?
This and what pressure to use are going to be the big pre-ride conversations! 

Since the course surface will vary based upon temperature and recent weather, it is hard to say definitively what type of tire will work best for you.  We recommend you select a tire that can handle sand and gravel, as well as paved surfaces.  We strongly suggest a tire size of at least 32mm.  Keep in mind that while only ca 33% of the course is on unpaved roads, some of them will be technical. 

Are there any Awards?
This isn’t a race, so there are no prizes based upon performance, but we will have some door prizes