WHAT TO BRING

• Sunscreen.
• A lock to secure your bike at the finish line.
• A cell phone. All groups must have at least one rider with a cell phone.
• Camera. Take a share photos through our Flickr group.
• Ibuprofen or a similar pain reliever.
• Two water bottles.
• Snacks to meet your specific dietary needs. Rest stops are well stocked, but we cannot guarantee we’ll have exactly what you need for the healthiest, most comfortable ride possible. It’s a good idea to pack your favorites so you can stay fueled on course.
• A change of clothing and after ride personal items.

We can store personal items, locks and purchased merchandise for you in our Baggage Check. Your baggage will be ready for you at the finish line.

HOW TO PREPARE: 2 Months Out

• Take your bike to your local shop or one of our coupon locations for a tune-up. Shops get busy in the summer so it’s a good idea to play well ahead.
• Tell all your friends about the ride. The Seattle Century is way more fun when you have your favorite riding buddies with you for the day.
• If you have not ridden in a while, follow the training schedule recommended below.
• Ensure you’ve got the gear you need for a comfortable ride. Visit our partnering retail locations for anything you need.

HOW TO PREPARE: 2 Weeks Out

• Talk with your friends and make plans for the ride. Designate one person to pick up the materials for your entire group (it goes faster for you and everyone else that way).
• Stretch your legs, go for a long ride.

HOW TO PREPARE: 1 Week Out

• Round up your water bottles and gear.
• Launder your apparel and set it aside for the day of the ride.
• Check the directions and schedule for the Pre-Ride Party (optional) and the start line. Plan your transportation and parking options.
• Stretch your legs, go for a healthy ride, but nothing strenuous.

HOW TO PREPARE: The Day Before the Ride

• Attend the Pre-Ride Party to pick up your rider materials, meet other riders, ask questions and review the routes. (optional).
• Ensure you know where you’re going and how you’re getting there. If you’re driving, ensure you know how to load your bike onto/into your car and where you’re going to park.
• Avoid strenuous activities. Save your energy for the ride.
• Set out everything you need for the next day so you don’t have to find it in the early morning.
• Relax, eat a healthy dinner, go to bed early.

SUGGESTED TRAINING SCHEDULE

This is a recommended training schedule geared toward participants who have not been on their bike much in the few months prior to the ride. If you ride 50+ miles a week, you probably do not need to train for the ride. This is only a recommendation. Pay attention to your body’s needs and do not push yourself in a way that is uncomfortable.

Week one: 1/2 the total miles of your chosen course (and reward yourself afterward!).

Week two: Add 5 miles (and reward yourself afterward!).

Week three: Add 10 miles (and reward yourself afterward!).

Week three: Add 10 miles (and reward yourself afterward!).

Week four: If you are not yet at your total mileage, ride 90% of the mileage of your course or more if you’re feeling really good (and reward yourself afterward!).

Week before the ride: Unless you’re a regular, experienced distance rider, avoid going on a ride longer than 25 miles in this crucial week. Instead, pedal for around 15 miles on the weekend and ride your bike 4-8 miles every day leading up to the ride. Keep your legs moving, stretch and relax. Stay on the bike, but keep it very light.