Download and use the ABC smartphone app. Instructions are on here. Register & cancel using the app.

Non-members may ride one time after signing a release and receipt by Club management.

Back

Armed Forces Classic Planning call

When
05/27/2026
7:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Location
Google

This is a Google Meet for the registrants of the Saturday Armed Forces Classic criterium.

Click this link at 7:30pm: https://meet.google.com/oes-ivep-tzr?pli=1

Greeting all ABC members who will ride Saturday at the Armed Forces Classic criterium. 2 of us will be with the USAF Team but we can all ride together here and there on the course and meet up before and after.

There is a Google Meet on the calendar Wednesday at 7:30pm for the 7 of us to go over the event and the new route and how this event works, the do’s, the don’ts, where to park, meet up in the morning, take pictures, etc.

Things that aren’t on their event webpage. https://www.cyclingclassic.org/

YouTube videos: Please watch minutes 5-6 for the narrow road.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3iFlXuQpjy0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KB-8H2pLIxY

This is a different kind of supported ride and am happy to share my experiences with it. Want everyone to be safe and not get hurt. Big thing is to ride predictably. Reminder that you are not racing other cyclists but this can be a very “racy” feeling event.

Please join on Wednesday at 7:30 if you have time. The Google Meet link is in the event description. You have to be signed in to the website or app to see it.

Lap Length Miles	Hours	Laps	Total Distance Miles	Ave mph	Medal
12.5	3	1	12.5	4.17	none
		2	25.0	8.33	Bronze
		3	37.5	12.50	Silver
		4	50.0	16.67	Silver
		5	62.5	20.83	Gold
		6	75.0	25.00	Gold

PLANNING TIPS

Park by 0600 in the street or in a nearby garage. Look for one NOW. Parking Panda is useful. DC police will issue illegal street parking tickets.

Arrive at start area NLT 0620. Meet at Sierra Nevada sponsor tent where USAF team will be.

Pictures in front of Capitol 0630.

Get in starting area 0640 or you will be too far back.

Bring a string backpack with sandals and a bike lock for after the ride.

Get your medal right away after the ride at 1000.

Will have multiple food trucks. We can meet up after 1000 and watch the professionals. Its super exciting.

KEY SAFETY TIPS

You are not racing other cyclists so be cool around them.
Bad things happen at the initial start and in 180 degree turns and in start/finish zone.
Crashes have occurred in previous years.
Start gradually and don't get carried away.
Have a mirror and know how to use it.
Do not load the course in your computer. Its not necessary and will be distracting.
Course will have motorcycle marshals. Must follow their instructions.
Motos will lead the fast 26 mph ride group.
2 sharp 180 degree turns. Be very careful there and hold your line and turn radius.
No quick or unpredictable bike handling in crowded areas.
Do not pass in turns, stay right if not passing.
Gradually get far of the course if you have a mechanical issue.
Lights are not necessary.
Drafting with communication is key.
Communicate a lot when slowing or braking.
Keep your eyes forward and not on your computer.
Be VERY careful drinking and eating inside of a peloton. Try and eat and drink every lap when solo.
Drafting is effective for 20 feet. No need to be tight wheel on wheel.
There will be cyclists who have never ridden this way before so watch out. They will not know better and will block the course.
There will be many experienced racers who will not tolerate poor handling skills so take it easy.
Communicate early when passing, then move right gradually.
Don't block faster groups.