2014freewheel ride guide

OKLAHOMA FREEWHEEL
- RIDE GUIDE
Letter from the director
What do Pistol Pete, Native Americans, and catfish noodlin’ all have in common? Oklahoma Freewheel 2014!
It’s true--the center lane of Oklahoma is being cleared for the 36th anniversary of the
running of the Oklahoma bicycles. When you’re done catching catfish with your
hands in the Red River, your ride begins in Comanche, the “Rodeo Capital of the
World.” Oklahoma’s western flavor quickly turns into the smell of fresh pastry as you
pass Marietta’s famous bakery. And, in Tishomingo--the capital of the Chickasaw
Nation—you can visit some of Oklahoma’s oldest and most beautiful cemeteries and
buildings. The heritage and culture of the Chickasaws will stay with you as you
explore Pauls Valley. Also host to the Oklahoma Cartoonists Hall of Fame, the Toy
and Action Figure Museum, and more bricked streets that any town in the US, PV is
definitely ”Not Your Ordinary Small Town.”
You’re now half-way to Kansas! And since you’ve always wondered if there’s a place where whiskey, blueberries and
felons can all call home, you’ll be glad to ride into McLoud. And what can we NOT say about the city of Stillwater with
its blend of orange Cowboys and rainbow gardens? There’s so much to explore. It’s also the site of this year’s
Speedwheel! When you camp out in our last Oklahoma stop—Tonkawa—you’ll experience what that Indian name
means: “They All Stayed Together.” You’ll also be reminded of two of Oklahoma’s most enduring characteristics:
Native American culture, and, oil. Finally, Freewheel 2014 ends in Caldwell, KS, the “Border Queen City.” Its
celebration of the Chisolm Trail will tell you how closely your ride has been following those old western paths. And
there’s no better city for reflecting on your past week’s adventure and dreaming of Freewheel 2015!
As you take your cross-state journey this year, I challenge you to keep in mind the mission of Freewheel, Inc: To promote
and strengthen cycling tourism in Oklahoma. This ride would not be possible without the support and hard work of
hundreds of individuals from our state’s rural communities. Please show your gratitude for their generosity and
hospitality during your stays, and make plans to visit them again. We also ask that you take note of our sponsors listed
in this guide, all who make Freewheel possible. Give them your thanks and patronage throughout the year, and
promote their businesses to your friends.
This guide should prepare you for a fantastic Freewheel experience. You can look for more recent updates and discussions on our
Facebook page , Twitter, and of course our website, okfreewheel.com
We can’t wait to ride with you! Remember our slogan: “Just let yourself go”--on Freewheel 2014!
Joy Hancock
Oklahoma Freewheel Director
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Letter from the Director. ...............................................................................................2
Table of Contents ...........................................................................................................3
2014 Route .......................................................................................................................4
The Freewheel Ride Guide..............................................................................................5
Registration.............................................................................................................................................................................................................. 5/6
Transportation .................................................................................................................6
Accommodations ............................................................................................................7
Luggage ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................ 7/8
Meals and Rest Stops .....................................................................................................8
In Camp.......................................................................................................................................................................................................................9/10
On the Road..............................................................................................................................................................................................10/11/12
Hygiene and Safety ....................................................................................................... 12
Foul Weather.................................................................................................................. 12
Emergency Information ................................................................................................ 13
Kids - Registration, On the Road, Special Considerations.......................................................... 13/14
Preparation – Yourself and Your Bike!........................................................................ 14
A Typical Day On Freewheel ........................................................................................ 15
2014 Detailed Schedule................................................................................................. 16
Nickie’s Packing List ................................................................................................... 17
Resources............................................................................................................... 18
Freewheel, an Original Poem........................................................................................ 19
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OKLAHOMA FREEWHEEL
2014 OK Freewheel Route
Click on the links below to see maps for each day. Please keep in the mind that the fine details of the routes may be subject to
change. You will receive printed maps on water-resistant paper for each day in your packet, and we will have additional printed
maps at the OK Freewheel trailer during the ride.
Day 0, Saturday, June 7: Comanche-Texas Border, 46 Miles
Link to Comanche Campsite Map
Day 0 Map
Day 1, Sunday, June 8: Comanche-Marietta, 79 Miles
Link to Marietta Campsite Map
Day 1 Map
Day 2, Monday, June 9: Marietta-Tishomingo, 69 Miles
Link to Tishomingo Campsite Map
Day 2 Map
Day 3, Tuesday, June 10: Tishomingo-Pauls Valley, 68 or 100 Miles
Link to Pauls Valley Campsite Map
Day 3 Map
Day 4, Wednesday, June 11: Pauls Valley-McLoud, 60 Miles
Link to McLoud Campsite Map
Day 4 Map
Day 5, Thursday, June 12: McLoud-Stillwater, 70 Miles
Link to Stillwater Campsite Map
Day 5 Map
Day 6, Friday, June 13: Stillwater-Tonkawa, 70 Miles
Link to Tonkawa Campsite Map
Day 6 Map
Day 7, Saturday, June 14: Tonkawa-Caldwell, KS, 42 Miles
Link to Caldwell Site Map
Day 7 Map
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OKLAHOMA FREEWHEEL
- RIDE GUIDE
The Freewheel Ride Guide
Welcome to the Freewheel Ride Guide. This small package is crammed with information to help you plan for and have a great
ride across the Sooner State.
Review the table of contents, note the information that’s included, and dive in. We hope you’ll find the answers to your
questions. If not, see the resources listed at the end of the Guide, email us at director@okfreewheel.com, or post a question on
our Facebook page or group.
REGISTRATION You’ve probably already registered if you’re reading this guide. If you haven’t, then you can register online on the Freewheel
website. Full and half week as well as one day options are available, and non-riding friends or family members are welcome
to register and join us at each night’s camp.
What You Can Expect from Freewheel
Your paid registration includes the following:
• At least two fruit stops each day (with water, apples, bananas, oranges, watermelon, etc.).
• FREE T-shirt.
• Route security (OHP escort every day).
• SAG support.
• Mechanical support on the road and in camp from our sponsor bike shops (Tom’s, T-Town, Lee’s, Spoke House).
• Marked routes.
• Camping space (outdoor, and limited first-come-first-serve indoor).
• Shower truck and portable toilets to supplement host community facilities (INCLUDING Day 0!).
• Baggage transportation (limit two bags, 35 pounds each).
• Route maps (one for each day, with distances, points of interest, etc.).
• Starting Packet (Information, maps, luggage tags, etc.).
• Final night end of the ride dinner and celebration.
• Rider medical coverage to supplement your own insurance.
• Finisher medals to recognize your accomplishment of riding across our great state!
• Memories of the people, places and scenic beauty of rural Oklahoma.
What Freewheel Expects from You
• Ride every mile of the Freewheel route every day of the ride. NO EXCEPTIONS—if you are not able to do this, you WILL be
asked to go home early.
• Obey all traffic laws.
• Request a SAG ONLY when injured or unable to ride or when mechanical problems leave you afoot.
• Be courteous and respectful of others, whether on the road or in camp.
• Have your bicycle in good condition when you begin the ride.
• Ride safely and encourage others to do the same.
• Load your own luggage on the truck each day.
• Maintain a positive attitude when the unexpected occurs.
• Practice good hygiene at rest stops and in camp.
• Have a GREAT TIME!
• Meet the locals and learn about their communities.
• Pursue world peace? … Okay, so we expect a lot! Enjoy the ride!
Did we forget anything?
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Cancellation
• All cancellations must be submitted in writing no later than May 31 2014. No refunds will be issued after that date.
There will be a $50.00 processing fee for each refund.
• There is no refund on jerseys or t-shirts if they have already been received.
Packet Pickup
Packets will be available at the Freewheel trailer in your starting community wherever you join the ride.
Wristbands
All registered riders are fitted with wristbands when they register. Wristbands - to be worn on your wrist only - are required to
receive Freewheel-supplied services including fruit stops, accommodations (tent area or indoor), restrooms and showers, Endof-the-Trail celebration and meal, host community entertainment, and any discounts or other activities provided by host
communities.
Wristbands are NOT in rider packets, but are fitted at the Freewheel Trailer when you join the ride. Registered non-riders are
also required to wear wristbands.
Non-Rider Registration
Non-riders accompanying registered Freewheel riders must also register and receive a wristband. There is a reduced charge for
non-riders for their access to and use of services in camp and their participation in the End-of-the-Trail meal and celebration at
week’s end.
Non-Rider Travel Between Host Communities
Non-riders who are not serving as Official Freewheel SAGs must travel between host communities via alternate routes. Pick up
alternate route maps at the Freewheel Trailer when you register. Private SAGs are not allowed on the route.
Riders accompanied by private SAGs who drive on the Freewheel route may be asked to leave the ride and will forfeit
access to all Freewheel services.
Having non-riders travel routes other than the Freewheel route is intended to reduce vehicle traffic on the route, improving
rider safety and adding to the enjoyment of the ride for all participants.
TRANSPORTATION Riders reach the start of Freewheel by a variety of means. Most rely on family, friends, or other riders to carpool to the start of
the ride. Riders who are more ambitious ride their bikes to the start and some ride home again at the end of the week. You
may purchase bus tickets that will take you to the start of the ride from Tulsa on the Saturday prior to our Sunday start. You
can also buy tickets that will take you from the finish town back to Tulsa OR to our start town. Space is limited—go to our
online store to reserve your spot today!
If you’re looking for a ride or have space to provide a ride to others, post a message on our facebook group or page. Parking is
available in Tulsa for bus riders and in the starting community, finish community, and the mid-week starting communities.
Check the Freewheel website for precise locations.
Bus riders are strongly encouraged to box their bikes. Boxes can be obtained from your local bike shop. After unboxing your
bike, boxes are collapsed and carried on the luggage truck throughout the week to be available for reassembly and use on the
return trip to Tulsa or the starting community. Be sure to bring appropriate tools to assemble and disassemble your bike, as
well as packing tape to reassemble your box for use on the return trip at week’s end.
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ACCOMODATIONS Tent Camping - Oklahoma Freewheel is primarily a camping tour.
Most riders bring their own shelter and become a part of each night’s “tent city” located on a park or school grounds near
shower, toilet and other facilities. Freewheel provides clean and convenient port-a-johns to supplement facilities available in the
host communities. Each host community has emergency facilities available and plans prepared to evacuate campers to a safe
haven should inclement weather threaten.
Be sure to consider the following when picking your tent site each night: drainage in case of rain, nearby downspouts from
building roofs, street lights and other lighting, proximity to port-a-johns, showers, or other heavily trafficked locations, and
distance from the luggage truck.
Tent Service
For those who’d prefer to not bring their own tent, comfort camping is available for a fee from The Shuttle Guy. Check
shuttleguy.com for a full description of the options available. Those who’ve taken advantage of this country club experience
have only glowing remarks about their tent domestique.
Indoor Camping
Though host communities are requested to provide indoor camping facilities, space is generally limited, available on a firstcome-first-served basis, and will likely involve a fee.
Indoor camping availability is not guaranteed; plan accordingly.
Motel/Hotel
Limited motel/hotel accommodations may be available in host communities. Contact the local Chambers of Commerce for
information on availability and location of such facilities to make your own arrangements.
Wherever you stay: campsite, indoor location, or motel, YOU are responsible for getting your luggage to and from your
accommodations, and bags must be on the luggage truck no later than 8:30 am each morning.
LUGGAGE Your luggage will be carried between host communities on a semi-trailer truck. You must load your luggage on the truck and
carry it to your camping spot each evening. You are limited to two pieces of luggage weighing no more than 35 pounds each.
So, what should you bring along?
That question has as many answers as the number of people you ask. Everyone has their own needs and philosophy regarding
what to bring and what to leave behind.
Here are some guidelines and requirements that will help you make reasonable choices as you assemble your list:
• Luggage must be on the truck each morning no later than 8:30 am.
• No more than two bags (35 pounds max each) per registered rider.
• You are responsible for loading your own bag(s) on the luggage truck.
• Items that are NOT allowed:
1.
Trailers
2.
Luggage Carts
3.
Objects tied on the outside of luggage (especially pumps!)
4.
Hazardous or flammable materials
• You may not pack external frame backpacks in trash bags.
• Avoid fragile or breakable items.
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What should I pack?
Most folks manage the week with an amount of gear that would fit in a standard army duffle bag; that’s roughly 20 x 36 inches
or a little more than 10,000 cubic inches. Some people bring more, many bring less.
Remember, you have to be able to lift your bag and carry it to and from the luggage truck every morning and every night you
are on the ride.
Check Nickie’s Packing List 2.0 at the back of this Guide for an exhaustive list of potential items to bring. This list is not
suggested as an item-for-item packing list, but will help you think about what you might need without forgetting something
important (ear plugs?).
Select the items you need, preparing your own unique packing list, and leave the rest behind. Remember, you won’t be
traveling through the wilderness. There are stores in communities along the route where you can purchase most items you
might need other than cycling- or camping-specific equipment.
Some folks get by with a single change of clothes and sleeping gear, washing their riding gear each night for use the next day.
Others bring fresh riding clothes for each day, chairs, queen-size inflatable mattresses, and more. Just remember, you have to
pack and carry all of this to and from the luggage truck each day, you’re limited to two bags, and your bags cannot weigh
more than 35 pounds each. When in doubt, leave it out!
How should I pack?
Pack with the expectation that your bags will get wet, whether from rain or damp ground. Put everything in plastic bags even
if your duffle bag is waterproof. Bags are unloaded onto the ground each day and, depending on the weather, may be rained
on or may be unloaded in a damp area. Lining your duffle with a trash bag or a heavier trash compacter bag provides added
protection. Zip-lock bags in all sizes are an event cyclist’s best friend. Bring along a few extra bags to replace those that may be
damaged.
DISCLAIMER: You knew this was coming! Neither Freewheel Inc. nor any of our ride volunteers or host communities or their volunteers
are responsible for items lost, stolen, broken, or otherwise damaged. Bags are stacked on one another in the truck and are tossed out
of the truck at each campsite—pack accordingly!
MEALS AND REST STOPS You are responsible for all of your meals on Freewheel except dinner on Friday evening.
What you’ll spend
A good rule-of-thumb for out-of-pocket meal expenses is $30-$50 a day. Some folks spend more; some spend less.
A week-long bike tour is no place to skimp on calorie intake! Besides, it’s no fun and there’s so much good food to eat.. So don’t
plan on losing weight—keep your body fueled!
What’s available
Each overnight community will sponsor community meals - dinner and breakfast – at a reasonable charge. Many host
communities also have fast-food services, cafes, and restaurants.
Though vegetarians may have some difficulty in finding a wide variety of offerings, all but the strictest vegans can usually find
sufficient sustenance during the week.
Food is generally available from numerous sources along the route each day. Routes are planned so that community services
or a Freewheel rest stop are available every 12-18 miles along the route.
There are two official free fruit stops each day. These free stops are often located in areas where no commercial services are
available for some distance. Registered riders wearing wristbands have access to free fruit, water, and other items at these
stops.
Rest stops are indicated on each day’s route map and any changes are announced at the camp meeting each evening.
Although rest stops or commercial services should be available at 12-18 mile intervals, unforeseen circumstances may result in
a longer distance between services.
Always carry a snack and water, preferably two bottles. Whenever there’s an opportunity, fill your bottles. Don’t rely on a
water stop to be around the next corner; adhere to the Boy Scout motto: “Be Prepared.”
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IN C AMP Camp Courtesy
Follow these few simple rules of camp courtesy to ensure a harmonious Freewheel experience (for you and everyone
else):
• Pick up trash; both yours and any that may be around you - leave the campground cleaner than when you arrived.
• Quiet time is dark ‘til dawn (10:00 pm to 6 am) - this means no radios, TVs, partying or loud talking in the campsite; if you
wish to carry on a conversation with someone or on your phone, be considerate of those around you who are trying to
sleep. There will be a “Rowdy Camper” area away from the main campsite where those who want to stay up later are
welcome to camp. Just look for the Team Crude bus.
• If you’re driving an RV, park away from the camp - especially if you plan to use a generator. Designated areas are usually
provided in each host community.
• Remember, zippers can make a lot of noise at 4 am. Please be considerate of those still sleeping around you. Rise and pack
quietly if you’re getting away early.
Showers andtoilet facilities
A shower truck is located convenient to the campsite each night and may be supplemented by nearby school gymnasiums or
similar facilities. If you choose to not take advantage of the shower truck, be prepared for a locker room environment, cool or
cold showers if you’re not among the first to arrive, and little privacy. Remember that the shower truck can almost always
provide hot water for those who prefer it … and cold for those of us trying to cool off after a good day’s pedal.
The shower service provider will also be providing a charging station that can hold up to 800 electronic devices in private
compartments. If you want to keep your device secure while it is charging, bring a small padlock as they will not be
provided.
Freewheel supplements local toilet facilities with a eight portable toilets. They’re kept clean and stocked with paper. Be
mindful of the sound of the door closing if you use the facilities during the night.
Camp Meeting
Announcements are made each evening in camp or at the host community’s entertainment venue at around 7 pm, including
Saturday evening before the ride begins. Updates on the next day’s route, rest and lunch stops, and other information of
interest are shared. Failure to attend is no justification for complaint in the event you miss something important.
Bike Repair
Mechanical support is available along the route each day and in camp each afternoon and evening until 7 pm. Several bike
shops accompany riders throughout the week at their own expense. Expect to pay reasonable prices for parts and supplies
and don’t forget the tip jar! We’re lucky to have these folks along and encourage you to show your appreciation for their
service.
If your bicycle is 10 years old or more, be sure it’s in good condition for Freewheel and that you bring along
replacement parts for anything that might malfunction. Similarly, if your bike is unique in some way or has non-standard
spokes or other parts, you might consider bringing along a spare or two.
Massage Services
A perennial favorite at each Freewheel campsite are the massage services. Few experiences compare to a relaxing massage at
the end of a day’s ride along Oklahoma roads. For a reasonable fee, you can have your attitude and your muscles adjusted in
preparation for a sound night’s sleep and a good start the next morning. Massage therapists are available each day shortly
after noon and schedule appointments well into the evening hours. You may wish to arrange a standing appointment for
each night of the week... don’t you deserve it!
Security
Though Freewheel is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged items on the tour, we don’t wish anyone to experience any of
these problems. Exercise normal caution and care when leaving your bicycle or camp area unattended. We have not
experienced problems with loss or theft on Freewheel, but that’s no guarantee. Use your own judgment regarding locking
your bicycle while on the tour.
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ON THE ROAD Course hours - Sunrise until 4pm daily
Support services on the road are available daily from shortly after sunrise until 4 pm. Riders depart on their own schedule
each day. Riders who elect to leave prior to sunrise, which is about 6 am the second week in June, do so at their own risk and
should have appropriately equipped bicycles. Oklahoma State law requires that bicycles have a rear red light and a front white
reflector when traveling at dawn, dusk, or during the night. Bright clothing is also suggested for riding in low-light conditions
or after dark.
Safety
Two Oklahoma Highway Patrolmen accompany Freewheel riders each day. These officers have full authority to enforce
Oklahoma vehicle codes, which include bicycles! Local law enforcement along our route is also alerted to Freewheel’s
schedule and generally assists in monitoring safety when riders are passing near or through their communities. Obey traffic
laws and be a good ambassador of cycling whether on the road or in a host community.
Take particular care in supervising any child or teen companions. Parents and guardians are responsible for their youngsters
and should keep them close throughout the tour, both on the road and in camp.
Riding Safely and Courteously in a Group
Your ride, and that of other Freewheelers, will be more enjoyable and less likely to include accident or injury if you
follow these guidelines:
• Wear a helmet whenever riding your bicycle; on the road, around camp, and in host communities.
• Obey all traffic laws. Bicycles are subject to citation by law enforcement officials for violating state law or city ordinances
while on Freewheel, just as they would be at any other time.
• Keep in mind that your cycling is your advocacy. The way you ride demonstrates to motorists the treatment you expect ride like a vehicle to be treated like one.
• Never ride more than two abreast and share the road. Ride single file when other vehicles need to pass.
IF sufficient room
is available to do so without endangering you, other drivers, or other cyclists.
• Ride in a predictable manner (in a straight line) and never ride in the lane for oncoming traffic except when passing safely.
• Do not draft behind motor vehicles.
• Pace-lines are discouraged in areas where vehicle traffic, including bicycle traffic, is high. Pace-lines should be limited in
number to avoid traffic congestion and reduce the potential for accident and injury. The recommended maximum
number of riders in any pace-line is seven.
• Call out and/or signal, as appropriate, to alert other riders when you:
1) intend to pass (“Passing,” or “On Your left”),
2) intend to turn,
3) are slowing or stopping (“Slowing,”“Stopping”),
4) become aware of a hazard ahead (“Hole,”“Glass”),
5) when there are cars approaching from the back, front, left or right (“Car Up,”“Car Back,”“Car Left,”“Car Right”).
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Riding Safely and Courteously in a Group - Cont’d.
Do not call “Clear” at an intersection. Riders must determine for themselves when it is safe to negotiate a turn or pass
through an intersection. This is one instance when not communicating is preferred. Feel free to call “car left” or “car right” at an
intersection to alert riders of oncoming traffic.
SAG Support
Volunteer drivers offer SAG support along the route each day to transport cyclists as needed due to mechanical problems or
injuries. They also carry water and generally have a floor-pump handy for those repairing a flat along the route. If you need
assistance from a SAG, pat your head or helmet. This signal lets passing vehicles know you need help and are not simply
waving at passersby.
NOTE: If a minor under the age of 18 needs to board a SAG vehicle, they MUST be accompanied by the adult traveling with them.
SAG occupants are NOT taken directly to camp when picked up. SAGs will take you to the next designated rest stop, where
you must wait for the next available SAG to take you further along the route. The final SAG will sweep the route at 4 pm every
day; if you decide to not take that SAG if you are still on the route, then you are on your own for getting into camp.
Riders are expected to be able to ride the full route each day and to have bicycles that are in good enough condition to
withstand a seven-day tour.
SAGs are not intended for use by riders who are simply tired and should not be viewed as a service to be used for other than
mechanical or health related reasons.
Lack of training or poorly maintained bicycles are not good reasons for frequent use of the SAG services provided.
If you abuse the SAG privilege you may be asked to leave Freewheel.
Mechanical Support
Mechanical support from several bike shops is available both on the road and in camp each day. The shop vans/cars/ pickups
cruise the route looking for riders who have mechanical problems. Signal SAGs by patting the top of your head or helmet to
let them know you need assistance.
Mechanics actually prefer to make basic repairs on the road, so don’t feel like you need to limp into camp to get assistance.
Cyclists are responsible for any charges associated with parts or repairs. And, even if they don’t ask for payment, expressing
your gratitude and feeding the tip jar is customary and will assure participation from our state’s local bicycle shops in the
future.
Lunch and Rest Stops
Communities along Freewheel’s route provide riders with opportunities for refreshment and for lunch whether at a designated
lunch stop provided by a local school, church, or community group or at commercial food services in larger communities. We
try to design the route with commercial services or a Freewheel rest stop every 12-18 miles. Freewheel provides at least two
rest stops each day with fruit and water for riders at no charge. Community groups may provide rest stops charging
reasonable prices for what they offer and providing riders an opportunity to support their church, school, or civic
organization.
Similarly, we arrange to have a lunch provided each day by a local community organization or we direct riders to commercial
food services in larger communities. Look for the lunch stop or community to be from 35 to 45 miles out on each day’s route.
Riders are encouraged to take advantage of these stops or to patronize local cafes, restaurants, or convenience stores in the
communities we pass through.
Daily route maps identify rest and lunch stop locations, but are subject to change. Any changes for the following day are
communicated at the camp meeting each night. Riders, however, should always keep their water bottles filled and carry an
energy bar snack for times when a rest stop is missed or is a bit farther along than you expected. SAGs should also have water
if you find yourself in need.
Be sure to carry enough money to purchase your lunch and any additional snacks or beverages you want each day.
SAFETY NOTE: Riders must move themselves and their bicycles completely off the road when they stop, whether for
rest stops, lunch stops, or simply when you stop to take a drink or rest. Congestion and confusion at rest stops can
result in unnecessary accidents. Be especially alert when stopping on, leaving, or re-entering the roadway.
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Weather
Oklahoma weather in early June can range from pleasant to quite warm and occasionally, during and after a thunderstorm,
quite cool. Though average temperatures the second week of June are around 90, upper 90’s are not uncommon. Be very
careful not to become dehydrated. Drink often and keep your water bottles filled. And be sure to bring and use sunscreen!
Summer showers or thunderstorms are likely during the week, so carrying rain gear is strongly advised when the forecast
suggests rain. Rain can also bring cooler temps in the 50’s and 60’s. Pack accordingly and plan ahead each day.
And “... where the wind comes sweeping down the plains...” isn’t part of our state song just because it fit the rhyme! Winds are
common (constant?) and generally from the southwest during June in Oklahoma, hence the south-to-north route Freewheel
normally traverses. Get used to it (be prepared for it!).
Freewheel continues, rain or shine, blustery or calm, so be prepared to pedal in what may infrequently be less than ideal
conditions. In the event of hazardous weather, take shelter as appropriate. In a community, take shelter in a building such as a
convenience store, community center, or church.
If in the open and lightning threatens, get off your bike, squat with your feet and knees close together, balance on the balls of
your feet, bend forward and cover the back of your neck with your arms.
In the event a tornado is approaching and you’re in the open, find a low area away from trees that is unlikely to flood and lie
flat on the ground.
Emergencies
In case of an emergency along the route, first call 911. Most areas of the route will be within coverage. A second option is to call
the nearest police department or flag down a SAG vehicle, other riders, one of the OHP troopers accompanying us each day, or
any motorist or resident along the route. Dial *55 on your cell phone to reach the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.
To signal distress to an oncoming SAG vehicle, pat the top of your head or helmet with your hand. Freewheel SAGs recognize
this as a request for help, whether mechanical or health related.
If a rider is injured and cannot be safely moved from the road, direct traffic to prevent further accident or injury.
HYGIENE AND SAFETY Rest Stop and Camp Hygiene
The facts: washing your hands is the best way to stop germs from spreading.
This isn’t rocket science but “wash your hands” may become the new mantra of event cyclists after several cross-state tours
suffered significant numbers of illnesses on their rides over the past few years.
So, what can you do to stay well and prevent others from getting ill on Freewheel? Glad you asked...
• Remove your gloves at rest and lunch stops.
This is an expectation on Freewheel and something we require from our
riders.
• Wash your hands frequently or use hand sanitizer when available, especially before taking food at rest and lunch stops and
before filling your water bottles.
• When you can’t wash your hands, use waterless cleaner/sanitizer to clean your hands before handling food or drink.
• DO NOT put your hands in water or ice containers to fill bottles or hydration systems.
• Encourage others to practice good hygiene for your and their benefit.
• Bring more than one pair of cycling gloves and wash them nightly.
FOUL WEATHER Take shelter when appropriate
With nighttime lows just before sunrise in the upper 60’s, most find that a light sleeping bag or fleece blanket or bed sheet is
often adequate for a comfortable night’s sleep.
Summer showers or thunderstorms are likely during the week, so rain gear is strongly advised. Even if you elect to ride without
rain gear, you’ll want rain protection while in camp. A compact umbrella in your bag may be a wise addition to your packing
list.
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Foul Weather Con’td.
In the event of hazardous weather take shelter as appropriate. Each host community will have a location identified for riders to
take shelter in the event of inclement weather, so make yourself aware of how to reach that site from your camp area should
conditions warrant during the night. If you have opted in for texting alerts you should receive a text when inclement weather
is approaching, and where the host community’s designated storm shelter is located.
EMERGENCY INFORMATION Emergency Contact Information
It’s a good idea to arrange a time when you will call your family to check in and find out if they have any messages to convey. It
will be much easier for you to reach them while on the road than for them to reach you, unless you carry a cell phone with a
plan having coverage along our route.
If your family must contact you on the tour, they can check our website for the overnight community contact numbers. Do not
call unless it is an emergency. No personal messages will be accepted.
A message board will be maintained at the Freewheel Trailer. You should check each day to see whether there might be
messages for you.
Medical Emergencies
Your actions will be different depending on where and when an emergency situation develops. Your first action, if conditions
warrant, should be to get someone to contact first responders by dialing 911. In addition, take the following steps to protect
the injured and get assistance:
In Camp: Take the injured party or send someone to the Freewheel Merchandise Trailer or the community Information Area for
assistance.
On the road: Signal a SAG, OHP trooper or other passing vehicle by patting the top of your head/helmet. If a rider is injured
and cannot be safely moved from the road, direct traffic to prevent further accident or injury. Administer first aid if you are able
and qualified and await assistance.
Host communities will designate a shelter area in the event of the possibility of inclement weather. Be sure you know the
location of the shelter area and how to get to it.
Personal Identification
You should carry your driver’s license and medical insurance card, or photocopies of them, with you on your person. A number
of commercial ID products are available ranging from bracelets to shoe tags (i.e. Road ID). Any ID and medical information that
is ON YOUR BODY will be more likely found in the event of an accident than will information in a bike bag. One of these ID
products can be a very worthwhile investment.
Information should include your full name, contact information for someone who is NOT on the ride with you, blood type, drug
allergies, and any unique medical conditions that might affect treatment decisions such as heart conditions, diabetes, etc.
Parents and/or guardians traveling with minors should have appropriate information available identifying them as authorized
to make care decisions on behalf of the minor. You should carry this information with you in addition to your own ID
information.
KIDS -­ REGISTRATION, ON THE ROAD, SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS Registering Minors
All minor riders must be registered. The minor needs to be aware of their responsibilities and the inherent dangers of
participation in a bicycle event ride such as Freewheel. Additionally, a parent or authorized adult who will be riding with the
minor must sign the minor’s registration form.
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Non-adult Riders
Minors must be accompanied by their parent, or the authorized adult who signed their registration form, while they are riding
the Freewheel route. The parent or authorized adult is entirely responsible for the safety and behavior of minors under their
supervision.
Special Considerations for Minors
Parents and authorized adults are responsible for the care and comfort of minors under their supervision. Young children can
be particularly sensitive to heat, dehydration, sun exposure, and just plain boredom if they are not accustomed to riding for
long periods.
Ideally, parents will have included these young Freewheelers in their own training for the event. Freewheel is NOT the time to
introduce new riders to multi-hour rides or new riding conditions.
Please plan and train accordingly for your benefit, the benefit of your child or charge, and the benefit of other riders on
Freewheel.
PREPARATION – YOURSELF AND YOUR BIKE! Our Expectations
We expect all riders to ride the full route each day on Freewheel. Though SAGs are provided, they are intended for riders who
become injured or who have mechanical problems. Our expectation is that riders and their bicycles arrive in good enough
condition to complete each of the seven days of Freewheel.
Training
Whether you’re riding Freewheel for the first or 34th time, getting yourself - and especially your body - ready for the ride is key
to making it an enjoyable experience. Don’t focus solely on mileage at the expense of a well-rounded training program that
includes strength, flexibility, endurance, nutrition, hydration and rest.
Ride, ride, and ride! There’s no substitute for getting in the saddle to accustom your backside to the seat. While 420+ miles may
seem like a daunting task, training correctly will ensure that after each day’s ride you’ll be tired, but ready for more the next
morning. Plan on increasing your mileage by l0% to 15% each week over the course of your training. Begin with shorter rides
back-to-back, and increase to longer days in the saddle. Work on your climbing by doing hills and rollers. If possible, ride with
other cyclists to get prepared for the days when you’ll be riding with 850 of your closest friends!
Bike Fitness
Get your bike tuned up and adjusted to fit you before beginning to train. Efficient position and good body alignment will help
you feel more comfortable. Poor fit is more painful than poor training. To have your bike fit professionally, contact a bicycle
shop in your area.
Schedule a tune-up with your local shop several weeks before you leave on the ride. Don’t wait until the last minute! Make sure
to have them check the condition and adjustment of brake pads, brake cables and gear cables as well as bearing adjustments
in your hubs, headset and bottom bracket. Tires should be checked for excessive wear and cuts and nicks.
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A T YPICAL DAY ON FREEWHEEL 5:00 am – 8:30 am:
Breakfast- Host communities are asked to provide a breakfast opportunity in or near the camp area beginning at 5 am.
6:00 am:
Rest stops open based on the following guidelines: earliest rider departure of 6 am and latest of 8:30 am, maximum
average speed of 20 mph and minimum of 10 mph.
6:15 am:
Sunrise in Oklahoma the week of Freewheel. Riders who leave more than a half hour before sunrise must, by both law and
common sense, have head and tail lights.
7:00 am – 4:00 pm:
SAGs patrol the route to assist those with injuries or mechanical difficulty. Riders are EXPECTED to be able to ride the full
route each of the seven days of Freewheel. SAG support is primarily for assistance in the event of injury or mechanical
problems.
8:30 am:
Baggage Truck leaves for next host community.
9:30 am – 1:30 pm:
Lunch is arranged along the route each day, as well as there being opportunities on most days to patronize local
community cafes, fast food restaurants, and convenience stores.
10:00 am – Noon:
Baggage truck arrives in host community.
10:00 am – 7:00 pm:
Community Info. Center open for assistance and direction to local events, attractions, & food.
11:00 am – 7:00 pm:
Freewheel Merchandise Trailer open for information and merchandise sales.
Noon – 4:00 pm:
Majority of riders arrive in host community.
3:00 pm – 7:00 pm:
Bicycle shop services available in host community camping area.
1:00 pm – 9:00 pm:
Massage services available (for an additional fee).
2:00 pm – 8:00 pm:
Local Entertainment
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm:
Dinner available in host communities. Communities generally have at least one site in or near the camp area serving
dinner for riders in addition to any cafes, restaurants, or other organizations that may be offering dinner options.
7:00 pm:
Nightly camp meeting with announcements and more. This activity generally occurs at the location where any host
community entertainment is provided. Any changes in route or stops for the next day are shared along with other valuable
information.
10:00 pm – 6:00 am:
Quiet hours in camping areas, inside and out.
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2014 Detailed Schedule Saturday, June 7:
Evening Meeting and Announcements: 7:00 pm
Sunday, June 8:
Opening Ceremonies 6:30 am. Evening Meeting and Announcements: 7:00 pm
Monday, June 9:
Evening Meeting and Announcements: 7:00 pm
Tuesday, June 10:
Crazy Day! Ride your bike in a crazy costume of your own design! Vote for your favorite costume at the Freewheel
headquarters. Prizes awarded to the winner at the evening meeting. Evening Meeting and Announcements: 7:00 pm
Wednesday, June 11:
Team Jersey Day! Show your support for your local cycling club or team by wearing your team jersey! Evening Meeting
and Announcements: 7:00 pm
Thursday, June 12:
Speedwheel Criterium races downtown Stillwater. NO evening meeting/announcements.
Friday, June 13:
Freewheel Jersey Day! Wear your favorite Freewheel Jersey! Closing Ceremonies and Talent Show: 7:00 pm Prizes will
be awarded to the top three performances, the grand prize being a FREE full week's registration to 2015 OK Freewheel.
Any and all family friendly acts are welcome! Sign up for the talent show will be taking place throughout the week at the
Freewheel headquarters.
Saturday, June 14:
Flag Day! Wear a flag jersey, or fly a flag from your bike!
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NICKIE’S PACKING LIST Nickie Hall-Hensley, a veteran of every Oklahoma Freewheel since the inaugural event in 1979, has developed an
exhaustive packing checklist for riders. If you review this list as you prepare your own list, you’re unlikely to leave
behind any essential items. Starred items (*) are suggested to be included on your bike whether in a jersey pocket,
under seat bag, trunk or handlebar bag.
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RESOURCES Freewheel web site, Facebook page, and Twitter location
• Okfreewheel.com
• Facebook.com/okfreewheel
• Twitter.com/okfreewheel
Training
• American Diabetes Association Cyclist Guide – tinyurl.com/4bgrx8z
• Ride the Rockies training plan – ridetherockies/training
• Tulsa Bicycle Club Spring Training Rides
Bike boxing links
• Adventure Cycling Association
• Jim Langley - jimlangley.net/wrench/boxabike.html
Packing
• Cycle Oregon packing list - cycleoregon.com/_uploads/packing-list.pdf
• Ride This Bike gear list - ridethisbike.com/bicycle_trails/bike_trip_gear.htm
Tour Services
• Tent services – The Shuttle Guy – shuttleguy.com
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Freewheel Freewheel – It’s not an end, a destination.
It’s an experience; it’s people.
It’s two young girls giving out water bottles they bought themselves.
It’s a mother and son waving to us as we rode by.
It’s a farmer waving from his tractor as he sprays his field.
It’s a train engineer tooting his whistle when we wave.
It is volunteers cutting up fruit.
It is a whole community of volunteers with donations serving us lunch.
It is highway patrol officers keeping us safe.
It is bike shop people fixing our flats and repairing our bikes.
It is stopping to help a fellow traveler.
It is a friendly greeting as we ride by.
It is stopping to talk to someone by themselves at the side of the road.
It is people.
Yes, there are wildflowers and the birds on the wires.
There are trees with welcome shade. There
are lakes to cool our feet and refresh us.
There are vistas from the top of hills and special valleys.
But Freewheel is not primarily trees; it is the people.
The ride is long and tiring.
The uphills are tough; the downhills are a breeze.
But we will get to the end.
Remember to enjoy the best of Freewheel along the way, And
don’t just focus on the destination.
Enjoy the people and give back to them.
An original poem by Jacques LaFrance
Freewheel 2008
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