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Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Road Support is there?
RAW is happy to offer on-the-road support from volunteers who are members of the Ham Radio club known as ARES - Amateur Radio Emergency Services - though there is no official connection with that club. The crew supporting RAW has decades of cycle event support between them. Even in this day of the ubiquitous cell phone, "Hams" are the only ones who can guarantee communication in many remote portions of the state where RAW frequently finds itself. Expect water stops about every 15 miles. RAW also provides professional mechanical support en route.
"Great Rider Support... went beyond what was expected" - RAW Alumni
Can I bring a personal support vehicle?
With the high level of road support that RAW provides, personal support vehicles are not needed; we recommend they not be used, unless special circumstances prevail. In past years, non-riding loved ones have been allowed to tag along and they have also provided us with much needed volunteer help during the event, provided it has been set up in advance.
Can I wear an earbud? Or two?
Cyclists must turn off and put away any headset or ear bud (s) connected to any electronic device capable of transmitting or playing a broadcast or recording. Distractions such as music players and radios are also not permitted. If necessary to check, use, or answer a cell phone or pager, the cyclist must first pull ofthe road or trail and stop.
How do RAW costs compare to other multi-day events?
RAW is a true value for a week of fully supported riding, even more so when you look at the "cost per mile"! Most "comparable" rides give you 10 to 30 less miles each day and cost hundreds of dollars more - RAW is a rider's ride!
"The friendly support and enthusiasm of the volunteers gave the ride a homegrown flavor that really made
it special" - RAW Alumni
Why is RAW limited to only 215 riders?
This can best be answered by this statement, taken from the brochure of our inaugural event:
"RAW is purposefully being kept much smaller than other Cascade events: RAW Riders can enjoy a personal experience shared with like-minded cyclists. 'On your left' will very rarely, if ever, be heard! RAW will offer the kind of experience from which lifelong friendships can spring, of which lifelong memories will
be made!"
While most events are trying to grow as large as they can, we've lowered our limit from the 300 of the first year to just 215 wonderful cyclists like you.
Why is registration open to CBC members only for the month of January?
As part of our desire to reward club members for stepping up and supporting our mission, we decided to open all 2008 events just for members for the first month of the year. While we acknowledge the support and loyalty of riders on our individual events, it is only through strong club membership numbers that we can provide effective representation in the community. Plus, since riders receive substantial discounts on events, membership, (at only $25 per year), is not a financial hardship for most of our riders.
What happens if I wait for the ride to open to the general public and it sells out in January?
Sorry, but you are out of luck; we do not save any spots for non-members. Many people are able to secure registrations closer to the event date, however, via our free club message boards. Every year numerous spots have become available one month before the event.
Where do we stay?
RAW camps primarily at public schools, county fair grounds and state parks. For more information, please take a look the "Accommodations" section in the Ride Guide.
What if we want to stay in a motel one or more nights?
While we feel you'll miss some of the "atmosphere" of the event (and there is no reduction in fees), we understand that camping is not for everyone. There are few motels in close proximity to several of our overnight stops; a complete list is available in the 2009 RAW Ride Guide. If you decide to stay in a motel (for one night or several) all we ask is that you check out with us before going out on the course in the morning and that you check in immediately following the end of each day's ride. We cannot provide luggage transport so please bring a small backpack for your gear if you choose this option.
What about food/meals?
Starting with breakfast the first riding day, RAW will supply you with a great hot breakfast and dinner; along with water, sports drinks and a light lunch along the route. Light lunch not enough? Just make a sandwich or grab some extra fruit at breakfast. Vegetarian fare provided if requested. Vegans may take what they can, but are advised to pack their own victuals; refrigeration will be provided for marked containers. In 2006 we revised the menu to reflect healthier menu choices including a fabulous new lunch menu!
"Food and showers - can't say enough about them" - RAW Alumni
Starting with breakfast the first riding day, RAW supplies you with a great hot breakfast and dinner; along with water, sports drinks and a light lunch along the route. Expect wonderful lunch options and healthy dinner menus. Options are also available for our vegetarian riders. Riders with other special dietary needs are welcome to bring their own food and we will refrigerate it for you during the week.
What about showers and bathroom facilities?
One of the biggest compliments we receive each year from our riders is on our "Shower Truck"; individual stalls, good water pressure and all the hot water you want. Oh, sinks and mirrors out front!
"The showers alone were worth the price of admission! - RAW Alumni
Can I volunteer for RAW?
Each year it takes many dedicated volunteers help us produce this event. Please send us an email if you or a friend or spouse would like to help us out during the event. Volunteers are even able to ride a day or so and don't have to pay for food!
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