Frequently asked questions

Pedal Palousa: Aug. 4 - 10, 2012
Download the 2012 RAW Ride Guide

 

 

 

A:  Sorry, no. 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 and they are pre-approved by Cascade staff. In past years, non-riding loved ones have been allowed to volunteer, providing us with much-needed assistance during the event. This must be set up in advance.

 

 

A:  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.

 

 

A:  God knows we love them, but sorry…no pets are allowed in camp or on the ride

 

 

A:  Please read above note about personal support vehicles.

 

A:  RAW offers a fabulous value for a week of fully supported riding, especially if you compare it to other week-long tours offered by many organizations around the country. Just about everything you need is included in the price of the tour. A further major value and most importantly perhaps is the fact that due to the limited ridership number; you won't have to wait in line for bathrooms, food, or water.

 

 

A:  At first glance it may seem strange that RAW, a camping tour, would cost about the same as our small group Motel/Inn tours. The small group (20-30 person) Club tours do not need to provide a full catering service for 250 riders like RAW does. In fact, with such a small group they can allow the riders to purchase their own dinners along the way, and have the venues provide breakfast. Providing food for 25 riders is a much different prospect than for 250. RAW also has been a successful fundraiser for the club over the past 8 years, providing much needed funds for all areas of the clubs programs.

 

A:  Helmets are mandatory on all Cascade Bicycle club events. We require that you wear a helmet whenever you are on your bike.

 

 

A:  This can best be answered by this statement, taken from the brochure of our inaugural event:

 

 

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 250 wonderful cyclists like you.

 

A:   As part of our desire to reward club members for stepping up and supporting our mission, we decided to open all 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 is not a financial hardship for most of our riders. Not a member? You can join today.

 

A:  We have listened to feedback over the past few years and are able to announce a revised policy of transfers for RAW:

• Original registration and full payment are due 90 days before the event
• $100 fee associated with each registration transfer
• Signed transfer form
• Signed registration form from the person receiving the transfer
• All paperwork and fees due to Cascade no later than 10 days before the event

Please read the detailed refund and transfer policies before signing up.

 

A:  If you are not sure you can attend for any reason but want to be sure of a spot there are a few options:

A:  We provide a 75% refund of all fees above the $230 non refundable deposit until 30 days prior to the event. Unfortunately, because we must pay for all meals, lodging and equipment beginning 30 days before the event, we cannot refund any money after July 5, 2012. We strongly advise buying independent trip insurance as a guarantee against losing your registration fees.

 

"The organizers really cared about the ride, and that came through in multiple ways to make an outstanding ride." - Raw Rider, 2011 survey

 

A:   RAW camps primarily at public schools, county fair grounds and state parks. For more information, please take a look the "Accommodations" and "Route" sections in the Ride Guide.

 

A:  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 will be available in the 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.

 

A:  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. We revise the menu each year, and make a point of offering healthy and tasty menu choices daily.

 

 

A:  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!

 

 

A:  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!