Climbing adds fun and challenge to any ride. \u00a0They give us a chance to test our legs against gravity and the other members of our riding group, but their number, difficulty and placement along the route are all important things to consider. \u00a0While some people like to load up a route with a few dozen climbs, one\u00a0thing to keep in mind is the ability of the group (if you're riding with a group) or your own ability and how well trained you are. \u00a0If you're a beginner, not at a high level of fitness, your group is not adept in the mountains, or it is the wrong season to be climbing huge passes (think spring or fall) you may want to tone\u00a0down the elevation gains. \u00a0Keep the difficulty of your route's climbs in mind as well; not everyone can ride sustained 12% grades, and many people can not ride even short 20% grades (and they are out there.) \u00a0If your group is not composed of \u00a0six foot, 125 pound string bean skinny climbers, those “leg breakers” may be a disservice to riders who physically aren't fit enough for them.<\/p>\n

On the subject of placement along the route, it's important to keep in mind that most people can't jump into a hill climb right out of the gate without a warmup. \u00a0Few, if any, will show up to a group ride with a trainer and get in 20 minutes of warmup spinning before the group rolls out. \u00a0It's a kind gesture to your own legs, as well as the entire group, to give some kind of warm up on flatter terrain, as well as throwing in a couple of smaller, easier climbs to get the blood flowing before you ascend into the clouds.<\/p>\n

Surfaces and Scenery<\/h3>\n

Perhaps more important than the topography or amenities, the road surfaces and the scenery experienced during the ride will be some of the more memorable aspects. \u00a0Plan to use roads that are in good condition with as few cracks or rough areas as possible, and notify the group of any spots that could be dangerous. \u00a0If you're including dirt roads or other unpaved roads, be sure that everyone knows where and when they will occur (they can be nasty surprises to anyone who's not familiar with or ready to ride them.)<\/p>\n

Scenery can be tough. \u00a0There are so many varying things that people are tickled to see: some love animals, some love vistas, some simply enjoy random farmhouse architecture. \u00a0In any case, planning your route to show off some of the local “hidden gems” can be a great way to entice people into joining your rides. \u00a0Very often, you can combine the day's big climb with some beautiful scenery and the focal point of the ride.<\/p>\n