Lon Haldeman's Tips & Tricks

If you haven’t ridden your bike much this summer, you should do several training rides during the two weeks before the Roun’da Manure. If you are going to try and ride 40 miles during the event you should try to train at least 40 miles during the two weeks before the tour.

If you have time to do a training ride of the full distance you will be riding at the Roun’da Manure that is the best way for you to know if you are ready.  Get ready gradually during several weeks of shorter riders.

Test your bike to make sure it is mechanically ready to go. Pump up the tires, oil the chain and make sure the brakes and shifting are working smoothly.

If you need to make repairs, try to fix the problems one week before the ride and then test your bike again before the day of the event. Just in case something happens on the road, bring some basic tools like tire levers, allen wrenches, pump and spare inner tube that fit your bike.  Even if you are not a good bike mechanic there will be support staff or other riders who can help you if you have some basic equipment to repair your bike.

Make adjustments to your position, handlebars and saddle so you are comfortable riding your bike for several hours during the ride.

Bring a water bottle with at least 24 oz. of fluid.  If could be very warm during the ride. You can refill your water bottle at the rest stops every 12-17 miles.