Buzz about Total 200
You guys did an amazing job, thanks for all the support throughout the course! A really great day!
Natasha Calderwood
2012
FAQs: The Answers You Want

» How fast do you need to ride in order to stay on schedule for 200 miles?

» Does everyone ride together?

» Are there any women cyclist on the ride?

» Where can my family and friends meet me along the ride?

» Is this a ride or a race?

» Are lights required on my bike?

» Can I use my iPod or mp3 player?

» How do I train for this event?

» What type of bicycle can I ride?

» How can I sign up for Total 200?


How fast do you need to ride in order to stay on schedule for 200 miles?

Average ride speeds range around 17-22 mph with most riders in the 19-20 range. Average speed for the day and average speed while riding are two very different statistics to consider. Many faster riders will spend more time at check points resting while slower riders will minimize the time at check points to keep on track. If you plan to ride at 20 mph average then that's 10 hours of ride time which allows for about 3 hours of rest time. The check point schedule is posted for your review.

 

Does everyone ride together?

We have everyone start the ride at the same time and stay in a group the first couple miles up to the US Capitol. From there riders go at their own pace but generally form into large groups working together. Before the start we will create self determined pace groups and we advise you find the right group to pace your day appropriately. Check points and the lunch stop are good locations to change groups if you feel like you're going too fast or too slow.

 

Are there any women cyclist on the ride?

Yes, of course! We get this question every year, and a growing number of women attending as well. Roughly 25% of the riders are women and they are well represented in all pace groups. They also happen to have a better finishers percentage.

 

Where can my family and friends meet me along the ride?

The best way to get your family and friends on the course is to have them volunteer and share in the experience first hand. There are plenty options throughout the day to help out. They can also come to the post ride celebration and cheer riders in.

 

Is this a ride or a race?

Total 200 is a non-competitive recreational ride on public roads. Safety is our number one concern. There are no timing devices used and no prizes awarded for finishing in a certain amount of time. Finishing such an event is reward enough!

 

Are lights required on my bike?

YES. Red rear lights are absolutely required. No flashers please. Even though the ride takes place during daylight hours only, we require you use lights early/late in the day as well as in the chance of rain or dark clouds.

 

Can I use my iPod or mp3 player?

NO. Please do not use any type of music player while riding on the route.

 

How do I train for this event?

Take a look at the Training section of this FAQ.

 

What type of bicycle can I ride?

You can ride any bicycle you want. However, we highly recommend using a well maintained* road bike that you feel comfortable on. TT bikes (triathlon or time trial bikes) are acceptable but keep in mind: For safety reasons riding in aero position is not permitted while in a paceline. Mountain bikes are at a large disadvantage for both the resistance of tires / air dynamics and gearing ratios. 
*Please have your bike tuned up just prior to the ride so you're ready to roll.

 

How can I sign up for Total 200?

Just click on the ‘Register’ button at the top or left of any page.