Devils Backbone Cyclocross Metric Century Ride
Promoters of the August 29th Devils Backbone Cyclocross Ride are calling their metric century through the Blue Ridge Mountains the longest cyclocross ride in the USA. While that title may hinge on the words “organized” and “ride” (was this 800-mile cyclocross ride organized? Is the Dirty Kanza 200 a ride or race?), the first annual USAC-insured event promises beautiful scenery, hilly dirt roads and great grub and refreshment for riders as they traverse the Blue Ridge Mountains in Nelson County, Virginia.
The 50% off-road course features over 6,000 feet of climbing and grades up to 15 percent, but is described as best for ‘cross bikes, although mountain bikes can be a suitable choice. Two rest stops and a $10 food voucher for the Devils Backbone Brewing Company are included in the $45 registration fee.
Promoter Tony Bilotta hopes to eventually transform the event into a race, similar to Pennsylvania’s Iron Cross or the UK’s Three Peaks Cyclocross Race, and while this year’s event is just a ride, riders will receive finish times and the fastest “riders” may be recognized.
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