Cascade Training Series Information - 2012

This training series is designed specifically for those Cascade members who register for Cascade's premier events, with the goal being physical and mental preparation for the Group Health STP, and RSVP.  You and fellow event riders will be trained in group and safe riding skills that are key for all cyclists, and of particular value in these large events. Since all riders will be preparing for STP or RSVP, you will get to know riders at your pace level and can make plans to ride events with them.

To participate in the series, you must register and pay a fee when you register for one of these events. Since there are limited CTS spots available, we recommend you register early, and ask that if you have ridden in CTS previously, to consider using Cascade's Daily Rides as your training regimen and allowing new CTS participants to learn about proper training. Members-only registration opens on January 10 for STP, and on January 11 for the RSVP lotteries. Not a member? Join today to participate in CTS and take advantage of our many other member benefits.

The series begins…

…with a 25 mile orientation ride in April, 2012.   During that ride and the accompanying orientation, you will decide which pace is best for your fitness level.  The slowest of the three paces will be 10-12 mph on the flats and a commensurate level of effort on hills. This is generally considered a “leisurely” pace, and you must be able to ride at this pace to participate.  The fastest will ride at a moderate pace of 14-16 mph. If you want to ride faster than 14-16 mph, CTS is not for you.

Each group of about 20 riders will have two trained and certified Cascade ride leaders acting as leader and sweep. Maps and cue sheets will be available online in advance of the rides, and since these are stay-together rides with frequent regroups, you can be confident about not getting lost.

The route mileage and level of difficulty will steadily increase for each of the following 12 rides leading up to STP. Riders will be able to move up to faster groups as their fitness and skill improve, and conversely, since all paces will ride the same route, falling back to a slower pace is easy.

Two weekends before STP, the ride will be a relatively flat century to give you the confidence that you are ready for that event. Following STP, there will be four "maintenance" rides to keep you in shape for RSVP, or if you rode in STP and are not riding RSVP, to simply stay in shape and keep riding with your fellow CTS riders. Either way, you'll be totally ready for STP or RSVP!

Beyond the rides

Cascade's Group Riding Skills and Fix-a-Flat classes are included in the fee, and will be held within the three weeks before the first CTS ride. There will be several CTS seminars, which will include information on nutrition and riding techniques. Additionally, CTS riders will receive a unique Road ID bracelet, valued at $19.95, with your name and emergency contact information. 

Also included are discounts for services at Cycle University, such as for professional bike fitting, spinning classes, and professionally developed training/coaching programs. CTS riders will have a members-only website with all the details about the series, including maps, cue sheets and the master schedule. Riders will also have access to a rider/ride leader message board where topics such as equipment, training tips, and other subjects will be discussed. All of these benefits will make you that much more confident and prepared on event day.

Remember, you must register for the 2012 Cascade Training Series online at the same time that you register for STP and/or RSVP. The onetime cost of CTS is $95 and must be paid at registration. Cascade's refund policy applies.

Suggested requirements

If you are not yet in condition to ride 25 miles or more at a 10-12 mph or faster pace or aren't comfortable riding in a group, try some of the leisurely- or steady-paced rides listed in Cascade's Daily Rides Calendar before starting the Cascade Training Series. As a registered CTS participant, you will have an opportunity to test your preparedness for CTS by going on one of two pre-CTS red-pace rides. These will take place during the month before the first CTS ride (dates TBD). We also recommend taking a class to improve your group riding skills through the Cascade Education Foundation.

Private Lessons and personal coaching for any level is available from Cycle University to get you up to speed or progressing to the next color group.  10% discounts for club members on bike fitting, private lessons and coaching consultations.

2012 Schedule

*Note: some of these dates/rides are tentative. Registrants will receive the final schedule.

Questions?

Email sander.lazar@cascadebicycleclub.org.