Join the Kentucky Fun ride for an amazing route out of Sparta KY. This is a very low traffic ride, with lots of smooth roads, big moderate climbs and very long, shallow downhills.
The route: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/43486718
50 miles. expect 3,000 feet of climbing.
Intermediate pace (14 mph. avg.), no one left behind.
Ride leader: Susan Tomboly, Jim Thomas
After the ride:
Unfortunately, our usual restaurant stop after the ride, the Glencoe General Store, is closed on Mondays, and there aren't any nearby places. Maybe bring a cooler with some food and drinks.
Highlights:
The ride starts with 6 miles of flat to rolling through the Eagle Creek valley. Lots of scenic vistas.
Then the big climb of the day starts at mile 9. 1.3 miles, 410 feet, 5.4% average, max 10-11% toward the top. It's shady and quiet.
At mile 11.5, it's the shallow 3 mile downhill on Bucks Run Road, the best downhill of the day. A lot of -2% grade riding in the middle, at speeds in the low 20s. Then the downhill continues after the end of Bucks Run for another mile.
At mile 19, it's a nice 2.5 mile climb up Goose Creek Road, average 3.4%, max 10% near the top. New pavement and lots of shade.
At mile 26.5, a 2 mile long downhill, -235 feet.
After some moderate climbs and descents, it's another long downhill on Black Rock Road, around -3% on smooth pavement through the woods.
Rest Stop at the store at mile 36 in Ghent KY.
Mile 38, climb back up Black Rock Road that we just descended. Another shaded, smooth, moderate grade climb.
Small hills, then the last big downhill, 1.8 miles to the Eagle Creek valley, and the final 3 miles of rolling valley road.
Please join the Cincinnati Cycle Club to participate and be covered by insurance.
Helmet required, tail-lights and head-lights recommended.