I am a little late getting in on this conversation but I pretty much agree
with what has been said already. 7:00 to 7:30AM are pretty good start times. If
you are riding alone or with a small group, this is the best time to push off
because within the first 30 miles you should be able to find many larger
groups to ride with if you are so inclined.

Warning: The first leg of the ride is also where many accidents occur.
Beware of other riders and their inexperience. Emotions and adrenaline are
soaring
at this point and mistakes and miscues are inevitable with large groups of
riders. There are lots of stops and starts until you get out of Columbus and the
riders start to thin out. Also beware of things that nervous riders drop on
the road, such as water bottles and other equipment. If you have ever ridden
over a full water bottle, you know what I am taking about.

Its not my intention to be an alarmist here - I am just trying to school you
new riders on what to expect within the first leg on Saturday. Accidents and
congestion in the early years of TOSRV are the reasons the mass start was
eliminated. Still, with many riders starting about the same time, squirrelly
things
can happen and do. Just be vigilant and chances are very high that you won't
be involved in any mishaps and you will have a safe and enjoyable journey.

By the way, this is my 4th year doing mechanical sag work for TOSRV. If you
see me along the way or at the foodstops, be sure and stop by to say hello.
Just look for my van with the Chris' Cycle Works sign on the side.

See you then.

SpokinJoe


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