Rider Information

Participants should take into account the added difficulty due to remote nature of the route and the safety issues associated.

Road Conditions

Several sections of the Grand Ridge Road are unsealed. The conditions of these section varies considerably and riders should exercise caution at all times but particularly on descents and corners. Amongst the many dangers are logging trucks, loose gravel, fallen tress, wild life, landslides, and tourist traffic.

Route notes should read carefully and appropriate attention paid to all warnings.

Click here for more details

Bike Choice and Equipment

As it will be a long day in the saddle and over a range of road conditions it is important that you are on a bike that is suitable for the event. Road bike, mountain bike or touring? Click here for more information about choosing a bike. Equipment and what to carry is also very important decision. An experienced Randonneur will take into account many factors, such as terrain, distance between towns, weather. Click here for a suggested list of essentials.

Weather

With a rapid change in weather riding the Grand Ridge Road can go from a wonderful to a miserable struggle to complete the course. Riders are strongly advised to carry adequate clothing for all weather conditions, in addition to a space blanket. Sections of the route are high and exposed and can get very cold very quickly.

Pulling Out of the Ride

If you are struggling the sensible option is to pull out of the ride. The weather can get very bad on the GGR, and due to the low volume of traffic you could have a very long wait for assistance.

IMPORTANT: Please contact the ride organiser on the mobile number provided to let them know of your that you have pulled out of the ride. This will avoid unnecessary effort on the part of the ride organiser trying to locate missing riders who have not finished and are still out on the road.

Support

The ride is unsupported and as such rides should be self sufficient carrying everything they need to get them through the long sections between towns. After leaving the start is around 60km to the first town, Mirboo North, and then another 60km to the tea rooms at Balook. The tea rooms can close early as they don't keep regular hours. Better to carry on a further 30km to Traralgon South where to store is open until 8am. Its a long down hill run so even on tired legs it isn't hard. From Traralgon South the route takes riders through Churchill, and Trafalgar before returning to Yarragon. All these towns have ample opportunity to refuel and the many cafes and stores.

If you feel inclined the Grand Ridge Brewery serves meals, as well as beer, and is open most of the day.

Yarragon - Several Cafes and bakery's

Mirboo North - Store, Bakery, Brewery

Balook - Tea Rooms (irregular hours)

Traralgon South - Store and bottle shop open until 8pm.

Churchill - Super market, stores and cafes.

Trafalgar - Cafes, milk bar and take away's

Other Information

Please remember lighting rules apply for this ride click here for details