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Route Descriptions
&
Equipment Recommendations

Sierra Century - Saturday June 7, 2008
 
Equipment Recommendations
To enhance your experience, it is strongly recommended that you utilize equipment that can safely handle rough roads and steep unforgiving terrain. Information from last years riders indicate that a sturdy wheel set and tires of 25-28 mm assisted them in negotiating the rougher sections of asphalt more comfortably, especially the steep descents. This made their experience more enjoyable.
 

Hydration was a significant issue for many riders last year. Many people found that 2 water bottles failed to provide enough hydration between water stops due to the warm temperatures and tough terrain. A camel back type hydration set up is recommended, especially if the weather is warm, or, hot as is it can often be! For the Century riders we have moved a rest stop to provide a hydration opportunity prior to climbing Jesus Maria. These courses are on rural roads with minimal or no local resources to assist you.

Please come prepared both physically and with proper equipment to handle flat tires and minor repairs. Of course SAG vehicles will be roaming the course to provide additional assistance. Mechanics will be at each rest stop to assist.

  
 
Half Century
The Half Century route starts with a ride through historic Muphys and soon begins the first major climb, ending at the rest stop at Sheep Ranch. From here you will begin with a descent with sharp turns and uneven roads as you progress to Mountain Ranch where a delicious lunch awaits you. The route continues through rolling hills and challenging roads to Angels Camp for your final rest stop. Your final climb of the day will be up Murphys Grade road back to the town of Murphys and ultimately Ironstone Vineyards for a well-earned post ride meal. Your elevation gain for the day is approximately 5,400 feet.

Sierra Century
You will follow the Half Century route up Sheep Ranch road and continue past the turn off to Mountain Ranch as continue on Railroad Flat Rd entering the North Fork of the Calaveras River Canyon, then climb out and descend to the South Fork of the Mokelumne and Licking Fork Rivers. Your climb to Wilseyville will be rewarded with a well-earned rest stop before you head off on the rolling terrain of Highway 26. Just before the town of Mokelumne Hill you will turn on to Jesus Maria Rd and find a peaceful rest stop near the river to re-hydrate for the arduous climb back up to Railroad Flat Rd where you will rejoin the Half Century route and head into Mountain Ranch where shade, cool grass and lunch await you at the town park. From there the route continues on the Half Century Route back to Ironstone Vineyards and after almost 12,000 feet of climbing an earned post ride meal and libation.