Alright well after some discussion with Dana, perhaps the southern route will be best (down 105? to Palmer). If we're leaving at 9:30 sharp, I'd personally like to see all ride leaders there by 8:45 or so - that way we can make sure everyone is on the same page. All other riders, be there with your bike parked and gear off by 9:10, so we can do a quick pre-ride talk and have a last few minutes for gas-up's.
That work for the rest of you? I don't think we'll need any maps of this one since the new riders will all be under close supervision, but if any of you think handouts of ride rules and such would be useful, let me know and I can print some off.
In case there are misconceptions about how fast/hard we'll be going, let me be clear on this: We will be at or close to the speed limit. We will not be dragging anything through the corners. This is a ride designed to be friendly for new riders, including those without the experience to know when they're pushing it "too far", hence why we have ride leaders to demonstrate safe technique and show what those limits are. If you are an experienced rider this will likely fall under the guise of "boring" for you, unless you are there for the explicit purpose of teaching another new rider. If you're coming with the expectation to go balls out or impress everyone else with your daring skill and mastery of all things two wheels, please stay home or go somewhere else.
All new riders are welcome on this ride! Even if you are apprehensive about the bike, we will make sure you are able to ride at your own pace, and probably pick up some good tips along the way. The ride leaders will hang back with anyone who just doesn't feel ok with keeping pace, and make sure everyone has a safe and fun time. We want all of you new riders to stay in the sport for a lifetime, and we're all committed to making sure you have a positive experience, no matter how "green" your skill level.