Video of 2011 tour
Check out this video of this years Tour de Foothills. Shot by George Smith from Holliday Rock on an IPhone 4s!
What to expect at this years ride
So the tour is almost here. Here are a few things you can expect.
- Saturday morning checkin and same day registration begin at 6:00am (Official Route Maps will be given out)
- The registration and picnic area will have cover and heaters to keep you warm before and after the ride.
- 7am mass start of the Highlander Century and the Metric Century
- 9am start for the Half Metric Century
- Routes will be clearly marked.
- Rest Stops will have Heaters, Food, mechanics and much more to make your ride enjoyable (the rest stop sponsors are competing for your vote of best rest stop) It’s between La Rocque Better Roofs, REI, and Chaffey Auto Body.
- Ride Marshalls and SAG vehicles will be available throughout the ride
- At the finish line there will be Century Medal of Achievements given out
- After your finish there will be food, drink, heaters and bragging rights for all that finished.
riding in the rain
The Tour is a rain or shine event. We’ll be prepared for the rain and the rest stops will have a mechanic at each stop with warm drink and more.
With rain in the forecast we suggest a couple of things for you to be prepared.
Jacket, full finger gloves, Knee/Leg Warmers, and shoe covers will ensure you have an enjoyable ride.
Visit your local bike shop or REI Rancho to gear up if you don’t already have the right winter gear.
What time should you arrive?
The tour rides starts at 7am. We suggest people arrive to pick up their registration packet and goody bag at 6am.
This will leave enough time to get your registration packet. Go through your goody bag and pick out your T-shirt size. Then you can do some warm up stretches and compose yourself before the start.
Not a morning person? Come Friday night 11/11 to downtown upland from 5:00-7:00 and checkin, get your registration packet and goody bag. Listen to music and talk cycling with other riders. Even carbo load at one of downtown uplands restaurants.
Friday night checkin will be on “A” street east of second ave.
Raffle Prizes are the best
Who loves raffle prizes? We do!
At the end of this years ride raffle tickets will be given to all the finishers.
2 things will happen with the tickets.
1. They’ll be used to vote for your favorite rest stop.
2. Then they’ll be used to draw raffle prizes.
So there’s a chance that after your ride you can be eating lunch, hanging out with friends and then BAM!!! you win a really cool prize!
There will be medals
This year century and metric century finishers will be given a medal for their accomplishment. La Rocque Better Roofs and REI came together and created the Tour de Foothills medal of achievement.
Training Rides
Training solo can become lonely. Try a group ride to get ready for the tour. There are a few local groups that meet a few times a week.
Cycling Connection has rides nearly everyday of the week that you can join.
Click below to see their list
http://cyclingconnection.org/Meeting_Locations.html
Another group that meets a couple times a week is Psycho-Lists.
Click below to see their rides
http://www.meetup.com/Psycho-lists/
Both ride organizations have regular riders that help support the Tour de Foothills.
download registration form
We’ve attached our registration_form here. Just print it, fill it out and mail to the chamber of commerce with your check (all the information is on the form. If you have any questions please call 909-204-4465 Remember to put your jersey size when you order it. click the image below to print the form.
FAQ
A couple of Frequently asked Questions:
1. I just registered but was not asked for my free T-shirt size. Do we pick sizes when we pick up our goody bags? Yes
2. Will there be a more detailed route/ instructions on the website? The official route will be announced the day of the ride.
3.What time does each ride start? The Century Ride and Metric Century Ride start at 7am. the 1/2 Metric Century starts at 9am
4. How do I sign up? Click on the register button from our website. You will be directed to active.com where you can register.
5. Do I need to be a pro rider? No. The ride is open to all experience levels.
6.How many riders are expected? Last year we had over 900. This year we expect 1100+
7.What if I can’t make the whole ride because of the hills? This year LaRocque Better Roofs, REI, and Chaffey Auto Body will have roaming support throughout the course and will help. There will also be bailout options to help you get back safely.
8. How much water should I bring? We suggest bringing 2 bottles. Each rest stop will also have water, food, and nutrients. When you get done with the ride you can vote for the best rest stop. The winner gets a trophy and bragging rights.
9. I am a beginner cyclist. Should I even consider this event? Yes!
10. I don’t see my question here. Who do I ask? Go to our facebook page and ask (others may have the same question) or call 909-204-4465 or email: riders@tourdefoothills.com
kids ride 10am-2pm
Remember the feeling of first learning to ride a bicycle on your own—without training wheels and without a parent’s balancing hand? Remember that sudden rush of freedom?
Most of us have fond memories of riding a bike as a child. We want to pass that feeing on to the next generation. Not only is bicycling fun and freeing, it’s an excellent way to get healthy exercise. That’s one of the reasons that over 1,000 riders will participate in the upcoming Tour de Foothills bike ride. Whether you’re participating in the ride or not, you can bring your kids down and reap the many health benefits of bicycling.
Bicycling can be healthy and fun if it is done safely. REI and Upland Christian Academy are co-sponsoring a bicycle skills event designed to teach young bicyclists the skills they need in order to be better cyclists. By learning bike handling and traffic skills, one can enjoy bicycling more and reduce the chance of injury.
The ride will be held during the Tour de Foothills ride in Upland on November 12th. It will be staged in Memorial Park and run from 10am to 2pm. Bicyclists aged five to twelve are invited to attend. This event is made up of a series of stations dealing with an important aspect of safe cycling. Participants will have their bicycles inspected and will then learn about and practice bicycle-handling skills that will increase their enjoyment of bicycling and could some day save their lives. Parents are invited to participate, too.
For more information, contact Adam Howle, Store Manager of REI in Rancho Cucamonga at (909) 646-8360.
Rest Stop Challenge
This year the Tour de Foothills is stepping up its rest stops. Well actually La Rocque Better Roofs, REI, and Chaffey Auto Body are stepping up. Each of these companies is sponsoring a rest stop and competing for your vote as the best rest stop during the ride.
What makes a great rest stop?
- Granola Bars?
- Reeses Peanut Butter Cups?
- Bananas?
- Oranges?
- Water?
- Clif Shots?
- PBJ?
- Hammer Products?
- Power Bars?
At the finish of the ride you’ll be given an opportunity to vote for 1 of the 3 sponsors rest stops. The winner will get the most important prize of all. BRAGGING RIGHTS- and an awesome trophy.
Incycle Bike Swap Meet Oct. 22
Getting ready for the tour is a great excuse to get some new gear. A better excuse is that Incycle is having their Bike Swap Meet Oct. 22nd. Come check it out at the Incycle San Dimas location from 6am-2pm.
Register at REI get a free H20 bottle and more…
Avoid the Active.com processing fees! Sign up for the Tour De Foothills at REI Rancho Cucamonga, the Inland Empire’s premier outdoor gear store.
Starting Friday, October 7th, the first 25 people who register for the Tour in-store at REI will receive a free water bottle with a gift card inside (Value; $5 – $100).
REI members save 20% on one full-price item. Not a member? Join and realize these benefits today. Some exclusions apply. See associate for details.
1on1 financial riders
During the ride you may see riders wearing the 1on1 financial kit.
1on1 financial is a sponsor of the tour and is a local supporter of cycling. If you see them riding around, tell them the tour de foothills ride says “Hi”
Classes & Events @ REI Rancho Cucamonga, September – October
Bike Touring the California Coast – FREE CLASS
Tuesday, September 20th @ 7 pm
Crashing waves, barking sea lions and gorgeous sunsets. Do you dream of tour the California Coast on your bicycle? How about the wine country? REI will help you plan your adventure. We cover the basics of gear and planning. Learn about our favorite tours.
Bike Maintenance Basics – FREE CLASS
October 11th and November 8th @ 6:30 pm
This class covers practical, season-long maintenance for wheels and tires, drive train and brakes. Learn to change a flat tire and make other adjustments that will keep you on the road or trail.
Comprehensive Bike Maintenance
Details Below
This class offers quality, hands-on time working on your own bike with a certified REI Bike Tech. REI provides tools and bike stands. Just bring your bike and be ready to learn!
Part 1: Deraileur Systems Class $45/Members; $65/Non-members
Saturdays, October 8th and November 19th; 9 am—12 noon
Part 1 reviews derailleur installation and adjustment in depth, and discusses chain wear and cogset wear.
Part 2: Rim Brake and Disc Brake Class $60/Members; $80/Non-members
Saturdays, September 24th and October 22nd
Part 2 covers lever mounting, housing length, cable installation, bleeding for hydraulics, pad placement and alignment.
The No-Drop Zone – FREE PRESENTATION
Wednesday, October 19th, 7pm
Join cyclist Patrick Brady, author of The No-Drop Zone: Everything you need to know about the Peloton, Your Gear and Riding Strong.
Patrick covers all the information necessary for a new cyclist to gain the knowledge and skills necessary to take them from buying their first bicycle to starting their first race.
Proper fueling for your century ride
This is a great article on fueling for your century ride.
It talks about what to eat and how much to eat during a ride.
A couple highlights from the article:
- Eat about 250-300 calories per hour and don’t over overeat.
- change up your sweet snacks with pretzels or trailmix.
Hotel Specials
Planning on staying the night at a hotel for the tour de foothills? The Homewood Suites by Hilton and The Courtyard by Marriott Rancho Cucamonga are offering specials to riders of the Tour.
The Homewood Suites by Hilton Ontario/Rancho Cucamonga is offering a Special Group rate of $89.00 per night plus tax Full hot breakfast starting at 4:30am
Please call 909-481-6480 or toll free 1-800-225-5466 to book your reservations and ask for the tour de foothills rate.
11433 Mission Vista Dr. Rancho Cucamonga, Ca 91730
Or visit our website at www.homewoodsuites.com
enter TDF in the Group Code field.
The Courtyard by Marriott Rancho Cucamonga is offering a Special Group rate of $89.00 per night plus tax Full hot breakfast buffet included
Please call 909-481-6476 to book your reservations, & ask for the tour de Foothills rate.
Or visit our website at www.marriott.com/ontcy
enter TDFTDFX or TDFTDFY in the Group Code field.
Reservations must be booked by October 28, 2011 to guarantee rate and availability.
The Hilton Garden Inn is offering a Special Group rate of $89.00 per night for rooms with either one king or two queen beds. Rate includes a full cook to order breakfast.
Please call 909-481-1800 to book your reservations, & ask for the tour de Foothills rate.
Or visit our website at http://hiltongardeninn1.hilton.com/en_US/gi/index.do
Group Code “TDF” to be used when booking room
Special SIDI Pricing Factory Direct at Coates Cyclery
Coates Cyclery this Saturday 8/27 will have special SIDI pricing and Custom Shoe fitting from SIDI Factory Direct.
Also 20-25% off all remaining 2010 bikes
15-50% off clothing.
Click to Check out the flyer, then check out the sale.
REI teaches better bike skills
REI has classes coming up on road cycling skills. The class is great for those riders looking to be a safer cyclist. This is a great class to take while you get ready for the Tour de Foothills.
Click this link for more information. http://www.rei.com/outdoorschool/162/
We heart REI!
Introduction to Road Cycling Class
Description: This outing is perfect for beginning cyclists who know the basics of riding but are looking to improve or brush up on their skills. You’ll receive instruction on proper shifting, braking and hill descending/climbing techniques. Road riding etiquette will be emphasized. Please bring proper riding apparel.
Skills you’ll learn:
Learn how to balance and maneuver a road bike. Learn the proper technique for shifting, braking, and hill descending/climbing. Learn road riding etiquette and how to avoid hazards in the road.
Duration: 6 hours
New century route Announced
Its official. The Highlander Century for this years Tour de Foothills will include close to 8000 feet of climbing. The final route is still being finished, but it will include GMR (Glendora Mountain Road) and Mt Baldy/Shinn Rd.
This will be a great ride. We can’t wait!
REI shows you how to fix a flat
Keeping your bike well maintained can be intimidating for riders just getting into the sport. REI has free classes, and will show you how to fix a flat, and how to maintain your bike.
Visit REI in Rancho Cucamonga Tues. 8/9 at 6:30 for a free class.
Description: If you ride a bicycle, this class is for you! An REI technician will cover practical, season-long maintenance for wheels and tires, , drive train and brakes. We’ll show you some common adjustments you can make on the fly to keep your ride running smoothly. Learn ho to change a flat tire and get back on the road or trail. This class is a recommended pre-requisite for our Comprehensive Bike Maintenance Series classes. Registration for REI’s free classes is preferred, but not mandatory.
2 iphone cycling apps we think are great
Strava is a great way to keep track of your rides, compare yourself to other riders in the area and its got an easy elevation map and GPS feature that very user friendly.
Basically open the app press start and go.
Everyone who uses the app during the Tour de Foothills will be able to compare how they did with eachother.
Here’s a sample ride by our good friend HalfWheeling 
The other cool app out there is Instant Heart Rate.
This app will tell you your heart rate by using the camera on your phone. Need we say more?
Have you met our Presenting Sponsor
Have you had a chance to meet LaRocque Better Roofs our Presenting Sponsor.
For over 28 years, La Rocque Better Roofs has provided framing, roofing and insulation to customers throughout Southern California. The company is one of the area’s only family-owned and operated residential, commercial and industrial roofing contractors.
We’re thankful to have such a great presenting sponsor!
You may see them out on a ride or driving around town. If you do, please say hello.
Registration Update
Thanks to those of you that have already registered for this year’s ride. We are working hard to make this year’s event an awesome one! Thanks Gayle Daguay & Laura Champeau from Nevada for choosing to ride in our event! We’re sure you are going to love it! Let’s see who travels the farthest for Tour de Foothills!
Rider Review
We found this review from last years tour de foothills.
This was my 2nd year in a row at the Tour de Foothills. I had so much fun last year that I had a few friends and family members come out with me this time. I was very happy with this years event and here are some reasons why..
1) The sag stop was great, plenty of good chilled water, well stocked with great snacks (personally I loved the chocolate muffins), and the (Andy Gump porta potties get 5*).
2) The route was not to difficult for some of my people’s first cycling event. We will all be returning next year, hopefully with a few more to tag along.
3) The food after the ride, OUTSTANDING MEAL. That was the nail in the coffin for us this year. The lasagna and salad were fantastic.
We definitely appreciate the time and effort that goes into this events planning and as long as this event exists I can promise you that my family and I will be there as our annual get together. Thank you to everyone that made this so very enjoyable. See you in 2011.
Registration is now open for 2011
Registration just opened for the 2011 Tour de Foothills ride. Either click the register button or download the registration form and mail to the Upland Chamber. (instructions are on the order form)
Don’t forget to order your official tour jersey
Note: We will not be giving any refunds for pre-registration or jerseys that are pre-ordered
2010 tour video
want to see what the tour de foothills is all about. This video shows how fun it is.
Video from 2010 Tour
Found this video from one of the riders.
Inland Empire Women Cyclists got together on Sunday to make a Tour De Foothills training ride.
Check it out
L’Etape du California
We were at the L’Etape du California promoting the ride. Ran into old friends and met new ones. Unveiled our new event t-shirt at the L’Etape; those that signed up for the Tour de Foothills at the event received a free t-shirt.
Sponsor Space Available
If you want to win over the cycling community, sponsor the tour. Right now, you can get premium ad space for a great price on our website. The Tour site gets a lot of traffic which means your company is constantly getting attention from the people who matter most: potential customers. It also means your own website’s traffic will increase.
Call Cristina Chavarin at 909-204-4465 or email her at cristina@uplandchamber.org to become a sponsor today.
Tour Training Rides
What’s the best way to prepare for the Tour? Go on one of the training rides offered by local cycling groups before the event. Check out some of these sites for info about upcoming training rides.
Riders Review The Tour
Here’s what people are saying about last year’s Tour.
“This was my first cycling event I’ve done, I did the metric and I had a blast! The pros of this were the great scenery, very challenging, course was great (fast and long downhills, hard and steep uphills). The biggest downside was that the road markings were nowhere to be found half of the time, I kept having to look at the map to find out where I am supposed to turn and thankfully I live in the area so I pretty much knew where everything was.”
“This ride took us past beautiful scenery and did its best to keep us off of main streets and I appreciated that. I thought it was a pretty flat ride with a nice, challenging climb followed by a fabulous screaming downhill. I missed one turn and believe there was one turn that wasn’t marked but other than that I thought the route was very clearly marked. I liked the bagpipe send-off and the police escort at the beginning. The lunch was good quality and generous. I had a great time and would do it again. Oh, I did the metric century.”
“I have done many 100 mile Centuries. I enjoyed this ride, found it to be well marked for the most part. Next year it will be easier as there will be GPS data available from this year.
The winds were very challenging going up to Sierra/15fwy, but that’s part of riding. The tail wind heading south on Sierra was out of this world. What an experience 47 mph with no wind noise! I’m glad I did the whole ride.
Looking forward to next year. I am sure this ride will improve with age. Great feedback from my other reviewers I am sure all will be addressed. I am looking forward to the beer garden… bring in the Boys from Dale Bros!”
“My wife and I did the Metric Century on our Tandem and had an AWESOME time!! This was our first time on this ride. We thought it was very well supported, I saw more SAG cars than on any other ride I’ve been on. GREAT job and we look forward to doing it again!!”
“I am new to recreational bike riding events, but we had a team of local Inland Empire folks and from San Diego. Our group represented several levels of riders from very basic to pretty advanced. This ride was fantastic. It was organized really well, and represented one complete day of biking fun for all riders. I am looking forward to repeating the event.”
Have you seen the jersey?
A big shout-out goes to our local ad agency Echo-Factory for designing this year’s Tour jersey. If you haven’t ordered your jersey yet, what are you waiting for? Order today.
P.J. Garcia: Official Tour Blogger
In preparation for the Tour, our friend and fellow cyclist P.J. Garcia will be blogging about how he’s training for the event. He’ll be updating us on his progress and tell you how you can improve too. In addition to training tips, the blog will have course details too. Look for P.J.‘s course recon to find out everything you need to know about the ride. Feel free to ask questions or share comments. And, don’t forget to say hi to P.J. at the Tour. He’ll be the one wearing the jersey.
Check out halfwheeling.com or follow Halfwheeling on Twitter.
