D or Z ? (or inbetweenie ?)

This year’s Coast-Coast route has been planned with 2 separate groups sharing the start, breaks and final section.

We all need to set off from Libbaton, North Tawton and Exeter Quay together. Your choice of group therefore depends not only on the distance you’re taking on but also the speed at which you’ll be cycling.

Put simply – you won’t be able to complete the Z distance unless you’re cycling at the required pace.

The timings are worked out on the basis of the D group rider averaging 10 mph with the Z group rider averaging 15 mph (hills and all !). To average 15 mph on a hilly route you’ll need to be cycling at 18+ mph on the flat.

Choose the distance which suits you best – feel free to take on the “zig”, the “zag” or both. Don’t feel committed to the group that you registered for or started out in on the day – if you think you’re in the wrong group, feel free to change.

If unsure of your fitness or speed, take the D route – you can always take on the “zag” after lunch.

Each group will be followed by a van to help riders in difficulty. If a rider is falling so far behind the group that he is judged to be struggling, he may be picked up by the van and carried to the next break.

If in doubt – take the shorter route and enjoy the rest breaks !

HAVE A GREAT RIDE !