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Echelon Gran Fondos and partnered events are comprised of varying distances ranging from 10 to 100
miles. All rider types are welcome. Most of our events
include a timed section within the gran fondo courses.
Can you describe the courses and difficulty?
Please see each city page for all course profiles. All courses keep safety as the centerpiece to making a
memorable ride.
Do you close the roads?
Sometimes (it is called a rolling enclosure). We also try to
close the road during the timed sections/hill climbs or at
least close the road to one-way traffic. We also have full
road closure for the promenade out of town(s) and lots
of police and highway patrol out on course. Be cool to
motorists please.
What kind of on-course support can I expect?
Tons: Police motorcade, several aid/feed stations, medical
staff, photographers, cheerleaders, a red devil, Elvis,
and even a helicopter.
Are there cut off times?
Yes, but they are liberal. We have some people who are
going for time and others who just want to complete the
course. We give every rider the same support so ride at
your pace.
We do have check point times though. Riders who arrive
at this check point past the cut-off time will be
redirected and allowed to complete a shorter course.
Please note that the longer course options may have
challenging hills that the beginner rider may not be
comfortable with.
I have never ridden in a group or peloton. Does that
matter?
No, if you are uncomfortable with a mass start, stay to
the right side and ride your line until things break up
or just start at the rear.
What if I have a mechanical problem or get hurt?
We have made significant improvement to our SAG vehicles and mechanical support on the
courses for 2011. Mechanical assistance is provided in the rest stops
as well as enroute. Look for our marked cars. To avoid delays in
service, we recommend you carry spare tubes, a patch kit and
pump.
Doctors, EMTs
and ambulances are on call to provide
emergency medical support. Stationary first aid assistance
can be found in each feed zone. In case of serious injury,
ambulances will transport you to the nearest critical care
facility for treatment. In case of illness or injury, all
participants are responsible for their own medical expenses.
Do I need to bring food?
No, This is another area we pride our selves on and will
up the food experience in 2011.
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