Day of the Event FAQ

Can I pre-register before June 8th?

Yes, pre-registration will be available. Please visit the registration page to register!

Can I register to be a cyclist on the day of the event?

Yes, you can pay with credit card, cash, or check.

Will I be able to rent a bike for the ride?

Yes, we pair with a couple bike shops who will provide bike rentals. Check out our bike rentals page for more details.

What is the age minimum to cycle in the ride?

You must be at least 16 years of age to register to ride in the event.

What is the age minimum to volunteer?

You must be 18 years of age to register to volunteer.

Can I tow a child trailer on the ride?

Sadly, due to safety concerns, no trailers are permitted.

Do I need to be able to change my own flat tires?

While being able to change your own flat will prevent you from having to wait for assistance, it is not necessary. However, be sure to stop at your local shop and pick up 1-2 inner tubes that are the proper size for your bike. Additionally, if you carry CO2 or a frame pump, don’t forget it!

I’m from out of town. Where can I eat in University City?

For a list of restaurants around University City, please go to http://www.universitycity.org/restaurants

Should I take food and water with me on my ride?

We suggest you have two full water bottles, as well as an easy to eat snack. While rest stops will provide food and water, they will not have extra water bottles at them, and it can never hurt to have an extra snack to keep you fueled in between aide stations.

Water will be available at the start line to fill your bottles before the ride.

What happens if I choose the 70 mile route and I don’t make the time cut offs?

Riders who don’t make the first time cut off will be sent onto the 32 mile route. Riders who don’t make the second one (which is at mile 25) will be able to pick the route up and ride back to the start/finish, giving them a total of 52 miles. Riders who don’t make the last time cut off will be picked up by SAG support and brought back to the start/finish area. Please note – this is to ensure everyone’s safety and make sure all riders are off the course before signage has to be taken down.

What happens if I get too tired to finish the route I’ve selected?

Riders will be given a SAG support number to call before they leave the start/finish area. Anyone who needs a ride can simply call the number and a member of our SAG support crew will be happy to pick you up and get you back to the start/finish area.

What happens if there is inclement weather on the day of the ride?

This is a rain or shine event. Cyclists assume their own risk if they chose to ride in inclement weather. We ask that all cyclists please use best judgment when deciding whether or not to ride. In the event of thunder or lightning, first seek shelter then call for SAG support to pick you up (number to be provided) or wait until the thunder/lightning stops to continue riding. There will be no refunds granted.

What is a good time to arrive?

We recommended arriving and parking your car by 6:30am to ensure ample time for registration, bike tune-ups and team photos.

Where can I park during the event?

Parking is free during the day of the event, courtesy of Penn Parking, at the following locations:

Download the Parking Map here

Penn Park lot (CYCLIST PARKING) 31st & Lower Walnut Sts. GPS Coordinates:39.95129,-75.185232 To access Penn Park parking lot, travel east on Chestnut Street, turn right onto 31st Street, proceed to the end of the block and turn left, then parking lot entrance is immediately on the right. Handicapped parking will be available in Penn Park lot and at limited capacity in a private lot adjacent to the event.

Walnut 32 (PRIMARY VOLUNTEER PARKING AND CYCLIST OVERFLOW PARKING) 32nd & Walnut Sts. GPS Coordinates: 39.952681, -75.188053 For Cyclists using this parking garage note you will have to take your bike down the elevator or walk it down flights of stairs.

Which route do you recommend if I am new to cycling or haven’t ridden a bike in several years?

We recommend the 10 mile route, which will still provide you with great views, good company, and a great sense of accomplishment.

Will there be food available?

Yes, we will have food and beverage available across the park for all cyclists and volunteers.

Couldn’t Find What You Were Looking For?

If you have more specific questions that you would like answered, please contact us at psom-odcadmin@pobox.upenn.edu.