Q: On Day 1, turtles fly out of the bushes and attack me. I can’t go on. What happens?
A: Turtles can’t fly. However, if something equally untoward happens to you, and you can’t finish the day’s ride, we will pick you up at the nearest road crossing and take you to that day’s destination/lodging, and hope you can set out with us on Day 2. No Cyclist Left Behind.
Q: But those turtle stings really hurt and I know I can’t finish the trip.
A: Turtles don’t sting. But if you can’t finish the trip, we can take you the second day to Deb’s house, and then shuttle you to DC. Of course, if you have someone to pick you up sooner, that’s cool.
Q: What if it rains?
A: We get wet. Bring raingear and fenders if rain looks at all possible, or just let yourself get soaked and caked with mud.
Q: What if a thunderstorm comes and there’s no place to hide?
A: We will be paying careful attention to the weather forecast and getting alerts. The idea is to wait out any storms from the many places along the trail to take shelter in advance. That’s not to say we won’t get caught in a storm, of course.
Q: What if torrential rain comes and really doesn’t let up?
A: Oh surely this won’t happen.
Q: I gotta keep my costs way down.
A: That’s not technically a question. Anyway, you have a few options. Of course, you can double or triple up on motel rooms. You can camp for free. There’s a hiker/biker hostel in Harper’s Ferry. And Deb’s generous offer relieves you of one night’s lodging costs, to the extent she can accommodate you. First trip joiners have first dibs at Deb’s digs.
Q: What if it’s stinking hot and humid?
A: Much of the trail is shaded and parts along the river tend to be cooler. Still, it could be SH&H. LOTS of fluid, an easy pace and frequent breaks are the best response. Also, douse yourself from the water pumps along the way.
Q: What if I book my accommodations and then can’t make it?
A: Our first-night B&B has a 7-day cancel policy. Motels tend to be 24-hour cancellation. We’ll try to fill your room if you cancel but that’s not for sure.
Q: Not sure I can keep up.
A: You don’t have to. Go as slow as you want. You have all day to cover 40-plus miles, and an experienced cyclist will be at the rear. But you should get out before the trip and see how riding for several hours (at least 20-30 miles) feels. Remember that we have half-trip options.
Q: Can I decide at the last minute?
A: Sure, if you can look after your own lodging and make your own way to Cumberland if we can’t fit you in a shuttle.
Q: I really want to do this but I don’t have the right bicycle.
A: I have a couple of mountain bikes and you can use one. Nothing fancy but fine for the trail.
Q: I can only ride fancy bikes or yellow ones.
A: These are yellow.
Q: Nice offer, why are you making it?
A: I want as many people as possible. I don’t want a small group out there facing the turtles alone.
Q: Are there really turtles?
A: Yes. Darlene saw two on our 20-mile shakeout ride. I’ve seen many. And if you still don’t believe me, here is a photo from Gerald’s trip:
http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/page/pic/?o=3Tzut&pic_id=141361&v=1u&size=large