Good News, You Can Still Register to Ride
Hey Riders!
You’re probably thinking you’ve missed your chance to ride in this year’s Tour de Foothills because you put off registering for too long. Well, we’ve got some good news for you. Although registration online is closed, you can still register Friday night in downtown Upland, or Saturday morning immediately before the race.
The Price
Highland Century- $90
Metric Century- $90
Half Metic Century -$90
Get on it, and we’ll see you Saturday November 10th at 7am.
Ready for the Tour de Foothills Ride?
If you’re getting ready for the Tour de Foothills ride on November 10th, we have a pleasant surprise for you.
Although traditionally we only release the rides the day of the event, this year we’ve decided to let everyone know a little bit ahead of time. Hopefully this will give riders the opportunity to prepare accordingly for the Metric Century and Highland Century.
Check out the rides below:
We’re excited to see everybody at bright and early 7am November 10th.
Ride Details Are Here!
If you want to know more about each ride, we’ve got all the details you need to get in a few test rides before Nov. 10. Below are mileage, elevation, and route details for each ride.
Note: Official routes aren’t released until the day of the ride. However, these routes give you a pretty good idea of what your ride will look like.
Century Ride
102 miles
8,405’ elevation gain
Timed Climb on Glendora Mountain Road
Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1800018
Metric Century Ride
63.3 miles
4,096’ elevation gain
Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1800038
Half Metric Century Ride
30.9 miles
1,355’ elevation gain
Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1735327
Pacific Electric Trail Ride
13 miles
316’ elevation gain
Route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/1759266
If you have any questions about the routes that weren’t covered here, feel free to email riders@tourdefoothills or call 909-204-4465.
Watch the TDF Promo
Check out the cool new promo video for the Tour de Foothills. Thanks to our friends at Echo-Factory for making it happen.
Tour FAQs
A couple of Frequently asked Questions:
1. I just registered but wasn’t asked for my free T-shirt size. How do I select my size? You’ll get to choose your size when you pick up your goody bag.
2. Where can I find more details about the routes? The official routes will be announced soon.
3.What time does each ride start? Both the Century Ride and the Metric Century Ride start at 7am. The Half 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. If you don’t want to register online, you can download a pdf registration form and mail it in.
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? We will have roaming support throughout the course that can help you get back safely should you need to stop the ride at any point.
8. How much water should I bring? We suggest bringing two bottles. However, each rest stop will have water, food, gels, etc. that you can use to refuel during the ride.
9. I am a beginning cyclist. Should I even consider this event? Yes! Also consider joining us on our free training rides Sept 15th and Oct. 20. Read more about the training rides.
10.How long do I have to complete the rides? We will do a roaming sweep from 2:30 to 3 p.m. to make sure everyone has come back safely.
11.What if I register but can’t make the ride? No problem, we have a Rollover & Transfer Policy that allows you to roll over your registration to next year’s ride or transfer your registration to another rider.
12.Is this a race? No. This is a fun ride. We are timing a section of the ride (Glendora Mountain Road) and will award a KOM for that section.
13. 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
Sept. 15 Training Ride Update
Since we first posted about the La Rocque sponsored TDF training rides, there have been an outbreak of wild fires near Glendora Mountain Road. Due to these fires, the training route will no longer include GMR. However, the good people at La Rocque have mapped out an equally challenging route that will still give you a great workout and help you train for the Tour de Foothills event.
Start: 8 AM
NEW Start/Finish Location
Cable Airport
1749 W. 13th Street
Upland, CA 91786
Get Directions
The Post-Ride Party
Only the first 300 people get to participate in the post-ride festivities which include lunch, live music, giveaways and a beer garden with local beer from Dale Bros. Brewery. If you didn’t register in time to be part of the first 300, that’s ok. You can still participate in the ride itself.
RSVP on Facebook or, if you don’t have a Facebook account, email Gemma at gemma@larocquebetterroofs.com and let her know you want to ride on Saturday. Make sure to include your name in the email.
Special TDF Hotel Deal
We just got word that the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Ontario is offering a special $89 rate for Tour de Foothills riders. The hotel is about five minutes away from Downtown Upland (where the ride starts).
The DoubleTree is a great option whether you’re from out of town or simply live more than five minutes away. By staying at DoubleTree, you won’t have to get up at the crack of dawn and sit in traffic for hours to get to the ride on time. In addition to extra sleep, you’ll get to take advantage of DoubleTree’s full hot breakfast buffet (it comes with your Tour discount).
If you’d like to take advantage of the discount, call the hotel directly at 909-937-0900 or toll-free at 1-800-222-TREE (8733) and ask for special group code TDF.
Hotel Info
What type of room do I get with the discount?
King Size Bed, Standard Accommodations
What amenities does the hotel offer?
Business Center
Complementary Hot Breakfast Buffet (Tour riders only)
Outdoor Pool and Jacuzzi
Spectacular Coutyard
Starbucks & Porter’s Steakhouse on Location
High Energy Nightclub with Live Music
Where is the hotel located?
222 North Vineyard Avenue
Ontario, CA 91764
New Century Training Classes at Pedal Spin Claremont
Starting this Thursday, Pedal Spin Claremont is offering a weekly spin class geared towards training for the Tour de Foothills Century ride. The 90 minute class will focus on all the Century course highlights with the majority of time spent on higher cadence climbing (big gears and faster strokes).
Since we’re timing GMR this year, it’s super important to work on your speed. That’s what makes this class perfect, it’s designed to make you a stronger and faster cyclist. Each class will help you build the physical and mental stamina you need to power through GMR and Shin Road.
The class simulates an outdoor ride, keeping you at the same pace as outdoor group riders. You’ll be training primarily in the aerobic zone, metabolizing fat for fuel, but there will also be intervals where you’ll tap into glycogen storage. Your heart rate will stay within a few beats of lactate threshold which means some of the time, you’ll be going hard and other times, you’ll be taking it a tad easier just like on the actual Tour.
Research shows that riding for 90 minutes at least once a week builds endurance and fitness. So, get a few of these classes under your belt, and come November, you’ll be ready to kill it at the Tour de Foothills.
Class Details:
Name: Tour de Foothills Ride
Time: 6:45 – 8:15 PM, Thursdays
Time is subject to change each week.
Location: 201 N. Indian Hill Blvd. #101, Claremont, CA 91711
For pricing/other info: Call 909-399-0555 or visit pedalspinstudios.com
To reserve your bike and get more info about the class, go to pedalspinstudio.com
Free TDF Training Rides
TDF’s presenting sponsor, La Rocque Better Roofs, is hosting two training rides to prepare for the actual Tour. Now, these aren’t your average training rides, they’re more like mini Tour de Foothills. Both rides offer the chance to meet other riders and get in a tough workout as well as a post-ride lunch, a beer garden, giveaways, music and more.
The first training ride is Sept. 15 which means you should rsvp now. How do you rsvp? On Facebook.
Don’t have a Facebook? Email Gemma at gemma@larocquebetterroofs.com and tell her you want to ride in the training ride Sept. 15. Don’t forget to include your name in the post.
Training Ride Details
DATE
1st Ride – Sept. 15, Start: 8:00 AM
2nd Ride – Oct. 20, Start: 8:00 AM
FREE & OPEN TO THE PUBLIC
Limited to 300 people
First 150 people receive a free t-shirt
The club/team with the most riders wearing its club/team kit or jersey wins a cash prize.
RIDE
Est. Elevation: 4000
Est. Mileage: 50
GMR will be included in this route – with official rest stop at the top.
LOCATION
Start/Finish at
Colonies Crossroads Shopping Center
1118 E. 19th St
Upland, CA 91784
POST-RIDE FUN
Food
Music
Beer Garden
Raffle Prizes
Vendor Village
Can You Beat Mike Wilson?
For those who don’t know Mike, he’s a legend in the So Cal cycling community. Over the last year and a half, Mike has kicked some serious cycling asphalt. He was a solo competitor in this year’s Race Across America (RAAM), a three time Furnace Creek 508 finisher and winner of the 2011 Heart of the South 500.
The cool (and intimidating) thing about Mike is that he’s up for anything when it comes to biking. He’s stayed on a bike close to 24 hours several days in a row, ridden in freezing cold and blazing heat and pushed himself so hard that he had to be given fluids through an IV. He’s also competed against some of the top names in American cycling and beat them.
We’re telling you about Mike because as of this week, he’s registered to ride in the Tour de Foothills. That means you’ll be comparing your time up GMR with his. We suggest you prepare. Train hard because that’s what Mike will be doing every day until the ride.
Find out more about your competition by following Mike @sdlongrider.
Dreaming of a Bike Friendly America
Sharing the road with motorists can be challenging and often dangerous, especially in So Cal where traffic is already a nightmare. But, it doesn’t have to be. The federal government as well as your state have the power to make road biking safer.
Studies show that cycling crash fatalities and injuries are reduced in cities that have dedicated bike lanes and separate bike paths. For example, when NYC put in bike planes, injury crashes dropped by 40% overall and more than 50% in certain areas.
So, what can you do to help make road biking safer in your city? Write to your representatives in Congress and tell them how much you enjoy biking. Tell them why it’s important to you that your city and cities all over America get the funding they need to become more bike friendly.
Don’t have time to write your own letter? That’s ok. Peopleforbikes.org has already created a letter that you can send as is or personalize, it’s up to you. If you haven’t heard of peopleforbikes.org, they are a great organization whose mission is to improve biking in America. What cyclist doesn’t want that?
And, if you don’t want to send a letter, just sign a pledge on the website so that everyone knows you support safer road biking. Peopleforbikes.org is trying to get one million people to pledge. Show them your support, we certainly are.
Have a fun and safe riding weekend.
Sponsor the Tour
If you’re into cycling at all, the Tour de Foothills represents the perfect sponsorship opportunity. It’s a fun event that lets you support So Cal cyclists as well as the entire community.
Tour sponsorship doesn’t just mean exposure during the event, it also offers the chance to promote your company on the Tour de Foothills website, poster, jersey and/or other promotional materials months before the ride takes place.
Check out sponsorship opportunities now.
And, don’t think you have to be a bike shop to support the Tour. Our sponsors come from a range of industries and include:
- La Rocque Better Roofs
- Shakey’s
- Citizens Business Bank
- Jenson USA
- Holliday Rock
- Madole & Associates
- Southern California Edison
- GMR Cycling Apparel
We’d like to thank them for their support and offer you the chance to join them.
Don’t have the money? That’s ok, we accept in-kind donations too.
Last but not least, now until August 10, you can put your company or family name on a Tour de Foothills pole banner (featured below) for only $200. These banners will be displayed throughout downtown Upland from September through November, and you’ll get to keep the banner once the event is over. Email sonnie@uplandchamber.org to order your banner before next Friday.
Questions? Call Sonnie Faires at 909-204-4465 or email sonnie@uplandchamber.org.
Olympics 2012: The Great Motivator
Need motivation to train for the Tour de Foothills? Watch the 2012 Olympic Games. You’ll get to see some of the world’s greatest cyclists, people who have pushed themselves to train 24/7/365. While you watch, make sure to cheer for So Cal cyclist, Amber Neben who will be competing in the Women’s Individual Time Trial and Women’s Road Race.
Join us in supporting all the U.S. athletes participating in Road Cycling events. Go to the Facebook Olympics Hub to follow their progress and cheer them on.
Men’s Individual Time Trial
Taylor Phinney
Tejay Van Garderen
Women’s Individual Time Trial
Kristin Armstrong
Amber Neben
Evelyn Stevens
Men’s Road Race
Timothy Duggan
Tyler Farrar
Christopher Horner
Taylor Phinney
Tejay Van Garderen
Women’s Road Race
Kristin Armstrong
Amber Neben
Shelley Olds
Evelyn Stevens
Go USA!
Cycling in the Summer
Who doesn’t love summer? The longer days that give you more bike riding time. The chance to grill out every meal. And, of couse, the heat. Whether you’re a cycling fanatic or a newbie, it’s easy to overdo it when temperatures get hot.
Here are some tips that should help you avoid dehydration and other heat-induced problems when you’re riding.
#1 Stay hydrated.
When it’s really hot, you should drink 20 oz of cool water two hours before you go cycling, 8 to 16 oz 30 minutes before and 4 to 8 oz during every 15 minutes of your ride. It seems like a lot, but trust us, you need it.
#2 Wear spandex and lycra.
Don’t wear cotton and silk – these fabrics absorb sweat, they don’t evaporate it.
#3 Take a Gatorade.
If you’re going for longer than 90 minutes or planning to do a particularly tough ride, bring along a sports drink. It can replace the electrolytes lost from sweating, water can’t.
#4 Ride in the morning.
When you can, choose to go in the early a.m. hours when temperatures are lower. However, remember that humidity can still be high so you’ll still need to drink lots of water.
#5 Forget about dark colors.
Remember to wear light colors since they reflect heat unlike dark colors which absorb it.
#6 Get creative.
Some ideas include using your water bottle to squirt water on your head and neck, and putting a cold cloth or bandana around your neck to help keep you cool during a ride.
#7 Slow Down.
It may take a few weeks for your body to fully adapt to the heat. During this time, you may not be as fast as you are in cooler conditions. But, once you get used to it, your performance will improve, and you’ll be a stronger cyclist when temperatures return to normal.
Take care of yourself this summer – we want you in good shape for November.
What Riders Think of TDF
Are there other rides in Southern California? Sure. Are any of them as fun as the Tour de Foothills? We don’t think so.
Here’s what riders said after last year’s event.
“Awesome ride, best in So Cal. I will be riding it every year it’s held!” – Steve B.
“The ride support and rest stops were awesome. The mountain courses were fantastic.” – Matt K.
“The Tour de Foothills is a great event and gets better every year. The ride support was amazing and the rest stops were wonderful. The ride up GMR was great and challenging. Volunteers and staff were great.” – Nelson C.
“One of the greatest, most challenging rides of my life. I had a blast! – Tim R.
“Outstanding event. Best I’ve ever ridden. Great support by friendly people.” – Doug M.
“Great ride, great way to enjoy this part of Southern California.” – Richard M.
“I’ve done over 30 century rides, 4 double century rides and one triple century ride this year and the rest stops on the TDF were by far the best. Made it hard to leave and get going again. The route was one of the best, challenging, but not stupid hard. Roving SAG vehicles were right on top of any problems and the whole vibe was great.” – Mike M.
“It was a great ride. The rest stops were well stocked and I was encouraged by the support at the top of GMR.” – Michael A.
“This was my first cycling event and by far the most fun I have had in a long time! Everything about it was amazing and I cannot wait to do it again next year!” – Amanda W.
We hope you get the chance to experience the Tour for yourself this year. Don’t forget to like us on Facebook to get the latest Tour news and connect with other cyclists.
Are You Ready for GMR?
The Tour of California calls GMR “one of the most difficult stages of bicycle racing in the history of the United States.” Pro riders come from all over the world to beat it. But, you don’t have to be a pro to conquer GMR.
This year, we’re timing the climb up GMR, and giving KOM and QOM to the fastest riders. Come in first and you get a special jersey and the respect of the cycling world.
If you’re out of town, we suggest doing lots of hill repeats before Nov. 10. But, if you live in So Cal, here are a few tips for GMR training.
- Go early in the morning. When you go early, you avoid the heat and the traffic.
- Bring water. With GMR, it’s just you and the road so if you don’t take water (and snacks) with you, you’re out of luck until you get back down the mountain.
- Be careful. Motorists aren’t the only thing you have to watch out for. Recently, there’s been sightings of mountain lions, bears and other wild life. Keep a look out when you’re riding and avoid going late at night when animals are more likely to be out and about.
- Check your bike. Be sure everything from your brakes to your gears is working properly. There’s no bike shop at the top so you’ll be walking a long way with a broken bike if something happens.
- Check for road closures. Occasionally, GMR is closed to traffic. However, biking is usually allowed during these closures, just watch out for blockades or barriers when you’re riding. You can check the road’s status at http://glendoramtnroad.blogspot.com/
Stay safe and train hard. We want to see you pedaling past all the other riders in November.
The Final Hours
We’re less than 24 hours away from June 30, the last day to register for the Tour de Foothills and save money. After tomorrow, you’ll have to pay $25 more.
Since you’ll most likely be busy watching the Tour de France tomorrow, here’s what we recommend. Register for the Tour de Foothills today then save the extra $25 to buy a few beers at the TDF Beer Garden in November.
Register now and enjoy the rest of your weekend. It’s going to be a great one for cycling.
Watch Tour de France. Register for TDF.
We’re counting down the days until June 30th. Why? Because it’s the first day of the Tour de France AND the last day to register for Tour de Foothills before prices go up.
If you’re like us, you’ll be glued to your seat watching the pros take off from Liège, Belgium next Saturday. So, to help you get into a Tour de France state of mind, why not register for the Tour de Foothills?
Before June 30th, you’ll pay:
Century Single – $70
Century Tandem – $95
Metric Century Single – $65
Metric Century Tandem – $90
Half-Metric Century Single – $60
Half-Metric Century Tandem – $80
After June 30th, you’ll pay:
Century Single – $95
Century Tandem – $120
Metric Century Single – $90
Metric Century Tandem – $115
Half-Metric Century Single – $85
Half-Metric Century Tandem – $110
Day of the Ride registration is $125.
Take a break from biking to watch the Tour de France start on June 30th, then get back on your bike and start training for the Tour de Foothills. November is closer than you think.
Testing the New Tour Jersey
We’re pumped about the new Tour de Foothills jersey for two reasons. First off, it makes you look good on a bike. Second, its performance was recently tested by a super athlete, and passed with flying colors.
When we got samples of the new jersey a few months ago, we asked Guy La Rocque to be our jersey guinea pig. Guy’s finished the Ironman Triathlon 16 times, run 24 marathons and completed a double century 14 times. We knew if the jersey worked for him, it would work for Tour de Foothills cyclists.
Guy chose to wear the sample jersey for the Vegas Challenge, an event that includes 265 miles of biking and a half marathon. We’re proud to say the jersey survived the sweaty, painfully hot ride from Palm Springs to Vegas and also got a lot of compliments along the way.
Make sure you’re wearing the 2012 jersey Nov. 10. Order yours when you register. If you haven’t registered yet, do it today. There’s only 15 days left before registration fees go way up.
New Location = Bigger, Better Ride
In case you haven’t heard, the Tour de Foothills has a new location. This year, we’ll be starting and finishing in downtown Upland, specifically “A” Street between 2nd and 3rd Avenue and east of Euclid Ave.
Though we had a great time in Memorial Park last year, we’re really psyched to be moving the Tour downtown. Here’s why.
1) Downtown Upland is more accessible. There’s more parking and it’s easier to find, especially for those who are unfamiliar with the Upland area.
2) We can serve beer after the ride. Our new location gives us free reign to open up the Tour’s first ever Beer Garden.
3) It means a bigger event. There’s a ton of space downtown which means we can offer more live music, more shopping opportunities at Vendor Village and more room to party post-ride.
4) Friday Fun Night and the Tour de Foothills are now both downtown. We’ve made it so that you can check in downtown Friday night and then show up at the same location to start Saturday’s ride.
Make sure you’re one of the people riding with us from downtown Upland on November 10. Register before June 30 for maximum savings.
Beginners Welcome
If you’re new to cycling, participating in the Tour de Foothills may seem daunting. But, it shouldn’t be. The Tour has rides for every skill level whether you live, eat and breathe on a bike or just learned to ride yesterday.
At 31 miles, the Half Metric Century is perfect if you’re just getting into cycling or haven’t done it in awhile. It has just enough climbing to get your heart pumping but isn’t so intense that you’ll be exhausted by the end.
But, what if this is my first time on a bike? Try the Electric Trail, a quick 15 mile ride on the Pacific Electric Trail which takes riders along the Pacific Electric Railway (the world’s largest electric railway before its decline in the early 1900s).
Now, if you fall somewhere between beginner and pro, go with the Metric Century. It’s 62 miles with 3,625 feet of climbing built in. Plus, like the Century, portions of the ride are timed.
Whichever ride you choose, make sure it’s one that you feel comfortable doing. Sure, Tour de Foothills is all about pushing limits, but ultimately, we just want you to have fun, both during the ride and after.
Go ahead and register now. Remember, prices go up after June 30 (29 days from now).
Become a Tour VIP
Want to be treated like a cycling god? Become a Tour VIP, and you’ll benefit from a ton of perks. But, sign up quick – only a limited number of VIP packages are available.
FOR $250, SINGLE RIDERS GET
An Official 2012 Tour de Foothills Jersey
An Exclusive VIP Tour de Foothills Wind Vest
And Many Other Perks Including:
Tandem VIP packages are also available. For $475, you get tandem registration for your ride of choice as well as all the benefits listed above for both riders.
Register for VIP today!
Not able to go VIP? You’ll still want to register early. Registering early saves you money and guarantees you a spot in the Tour de Foothills.
Registration Fees Through June 30
Ride
Century – $70/Single $95/Tandem
Metric Century – $65/Single $90/Tandem
Half Metric Century – $60/Single $80/Tandem
Registration Fees After June 30
Ride
Century – $95/Single $120/Tandem
Metric Century – $90/Single $115/Tandem
Half Metric Century – $85/Single $110/Tandem
Day of the Ride registration is $125.
Remember, only pre-registered riders are allowed to check-in and pick up a goody bag the night before the ride, Friday, Nov. 9, from 5 to 8 pm on “A” Street (east of 2nd Avenue) in downtown Upland.
Don’t wait – register now!
Pit Stop: JensonUSA
We are in full training mode, are you? Don’t be left in the dust, visit JensonUSA for all your Tour de Foothills essentials. This one stop shop is the ultimate riders paradise, click the JensonUSA link to check out what they have.
The Tour. Now with Beer.
Turns out there’s a reason beer tastes so good after a tough ride. According to a study conducted by professors at Granada University in Spain, beer may be better or, at least just as good, as water after exercise. The study looked at 25 college students who performed hard exercise in 104° heat. After exercising, the students were divided into two groups, one group was given water, the other beer. The beer actually worked a little better than the water at hydrating the students.
We love this study as much as we love post-ride beer. That’s why we’ve decided to add a Beer Garden to our post-ride festivities this year. We’ll be offering beer from several of the local breweries. That means once you’re done riding, you’ll be able to celebrate with your friends, family and an ice cold beer.
See you at the Beer Garden Nov. 10.
We’re Timing GMR
For the first time in Tour de Foothills’ history, we’ll be timing GMR (Glendora Mountain Road). Riders will be given a timing chip at the start of the ride which will keep track of each person’s time up GMR.
With the timing chip, you’ll be able to see your time and the times of all the other Tour riders for these portions after the ride. You can also compare your time with the pros. The current men’s pro time record for GMR is 12:44 and the women’s record is 14:31. However, those times are insanely fast when you consider that it takes most people an hour to go up GMR.
That’s why, to get a real sense of how you rank as a cyclist, the best people to compare times with are other Tour riders. These people will have completed the same route on the same day with the same conditions. Their times up GMR are much more relevant than a pro who set the GMR record in 2009.
Whether you’re looking to beat your fastest time or a world record, the best plan is to start training now. You’ll be glad you did the day of the ride.
And, if you haven’t registered for the Tour, do it now.
Getting Ready For The 2012 Tour
Though the Tour de Foothills is months away, we’re already gearing up for a great ride. This year, every rider in the Century and Metric rides gets a timing chip. If you’re doing the Century ride, you’ll be able to see your time on GMR (Glendora Mountain Road). Register early – the Tour fills up fast!
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.
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.
