D2R2 100k: Ride Report

Incredible. What else can I say about 64 miles and 7,900 feet of climbing in the most beautiful countryside of New England? Words can not do justice to the painful ascents or the euphoric descents that comprise the D2R2.

I left for Deerfield at 6 am in order to make the 9 am start time for the 100k. Traffic was no problem despite the looming threat of Hurrican Irene. I met up with some friends, ate a little breakfast, and moved out promptly at 9 am.

The first half of the course was brutal. There was a 2,600 foot climb followed by a 2,400 foot climb. These two sections were divided into roughly five hills. The first one seemed to last forever. I was only 16 miles into the ride when my legs felt gassed. At some points, we were climbing along at only 4 mph. Then after I crested, I descended at speeds upwards of 45 mph. The contrast between climbing and descending was the most prominent feature of the first half of the 100k. The largest climbing section here stood at 2600 feet. That's roughly four times the size of Blue Hills. Needless to say, my practice at Mount Blue proved to be the best training for D2R2.

Prior to the first water stop, a grizzly looking gentleman played the bagpipes as we made our way up the hill. I've never felt more like William Wallace. Although this video is from 2010, it's obviously the same guy.

Lunch at the covered bridge was outstanding. I was very impressed by the variety of food available. I ate a mozzarella and tomato sandwich, pasta salad, bag of Fritos, two cookies, and an orange soda. At this point, I also rested for a bit and that did much to restore my energy. 

Unfortunately, my friend's brakes didn't benefit from the rest. The rotors on his wheels ate through his brake pads leaving him brakeless. I'm guessing the dust from the gravel roads got wedged into his calipers. The lever on his front brake pulled all the way back to the handlebar without any grip. This meant that he had to call it quits early since there was no possible way he could safely descent the hills. 

 
It felt great to spin my legs along Green River Road after lunch, knowing that the worst climbs were behind me. The views from Green River Road were outstanding. Towering rock ledges with free running streams dotted the roadside. This was probably the easiest ten miles of D2R2 and is also one of the easier ride options. After this, there were two more brutal climbs ahead leading up to Apex Orchard. Much like before, I crawled along at 4 mph up the hill and spun my way to the next checkpoint. This climb, however, was by far my favorite. The vista offered provided an unobstructed and complete panoramic view of the Green Mountains. This moment alone made the ride worth it. 

 
After Apex Orchards it was mostly downhill and easy climbing. The route doubled-back the way it started as it descended the first climb. Once I crossed the bridge, the end was in sight. Great food and beer awaited at the base.

It's hard to describe just how punishing the climbs were on this ride. Although it's an incredible opportunity, you must be an experienced cyclist to participate. I can't imagine what the 180k or the 115k must've been like [I would later attempt the 180k]. I recommend this ride to anyone that knows enough to just sit back and spin out the miles. This is not a 40 mile pavement pounder or your typical road club ride. If you enjoy scenic vistas and staggering climbs than this the ride for you!