Jennie, I'm all registered for this year's RAGBRAI, but there is a good chance that I will have to skip it due to a new project at work. Because I really like to ride RAGBRAI (my sister and Dad ride it with me), I am going to wait until the last possible minute to make the decision on whether to skip. I will probably know by July 15 (that Wednesday before the ride) whether or not I will be going.
If I don't go, I'd be more than happy to give you my bracelet, for free. So, if you're still looking for a bracelet after July 15, contact me, and I'll give you mine if I've decided I can't go.
Hey, all...my cell phone is 815-342-9169. I will be bringing lots of cash with the sole intent of purchasing beers and various pork and/or corn-derived food products for myself and my fellow chain linkers. Feel free to gimme a call any time during the week!
Comment by Mark Trulock on July 6, 2009 at 10:02am
Friends
I just thought about doing RAGBRAI this morning. I always sort of wanted to do it. I'm unemployed and taking the summer off. I just bought a wrist band and found a ride on the forums at RAGBRAI.com. I love this country.
Sorry Jenny I took the last space in a car. But if somebody will take me....
Comment by Joe 41 seconds ago Delete Comment Having a wristband means that you are an "Official Rider." Check out the following link to see the list of "Official Rider Benefits."
I think the best benefits of being an "official rider" are:
- sag support. If you're not wearing a wrist band, and you run into trouble on the road, you will not be able to use the Ragbrai sag wagons to get a ride into town. I have seen of the bicycle repair shops / tents on the route refuse service to people without wrist bands, but that is not common.
- bag service. The Des Moines Register will haul the bags of official riders to the next town. (There is a limit, but I'm not sure what the limit is.) You pick them up at the campsite. If you're not riding with a group of people (or team) that is carrying your bags, this service can be very nice. If you're riding self-supported, not as big a deal.
- campsite. The Register will have a huge area set up for Official Riders to camp. These campgrounds typically also have port-a-potties and rudimentary showers. If you're not riding with a group or team that has made arrangements for your overnight stay, it can be tricky to find a place to stay if you're not official.
There are other benefits, but I think these are the most important. While I have known some people to crash the ride for one or two days, I've never known anyone to wildcat the whole week. That wrist band is often helpful in a number of different ways, especially if you're riding the whole week.
no, every rider should register... there are lots of "bandit" riders that don't for obvious reasons. there really aren't any benefits that I am aware of... the money goes to support the folks organizing this huge event though (which is a good thing, imo).
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