The Drop In bike ride is an informal, ride at your own risk road ride that departs on Thursday evenings from Riverfront Crossing Park in Iowa City at 5:45pm. The ride is fast paced (typically 19-22 mph ave speed) with an average distance of about 35-40 miles. A strong base level of fitness is recommended. The ride emphasizes double pace line drafting, rotating pace line drafting, working together, maintaining steady speeds, and riding safely.
If you are new to the ride, try to show up 10 minutes early to ask questions and get tips. This is a drop ride, meaning that if you get dropped from the group, you should be prepared to find your own way back home. There’s no shame in getting dropped, we’ve all been there. In fact, one of the best ways to learn is to join the ride and hang on as long as you can. If you get too tired, simply drop off, enjoy the rest of the ride, and try again next time.
Road bike recommended for most mortals…or at least a bike with skinny tires. Lights are required (or at least highly recommended for the ride home). No aero bars. No e-bikes. Be prepared to fix a flat or call a friend for a ride home if you have mechanical issues. There’s no sweeper on this ride. If the weather is bad, it’s safe to assume no one will be riding.
Learn more about Group Ride Etiquette here.