This is a bit of a ridiculous question since mountain is in the title of the ride, but I could use more info about climbs and descents. How long and how steep? I have rolling hills where I live but nothing drastic. If I sign up for this ride, Im concerned how Id manage mountains and how Id go about training. Thanks.
To get an idea of what you may face, check out previous rides by searching ridewithgps dot com using "Cycle North Carolina" as the keywords. I've been on two of these events with my Cruzbike recumbent and had no problems with the hills. I think the biggest climb I've had was a 2.5 mile climb averaging 5%. As for training, search your web browser for "couch to century ride" or "cycling hill climbing training program" to get fit. Laying down the miles with hills, headwind, and/or sprints should do it. Remember, there's no shame in walking up a hill, and you can always take a day off using one of the Excursions.
As long as you are riding enough to Keep your legs in riding shape, you will be okay. This is a tour not a race. So if you can climb slow and steady you will have plenty of time to finish each day.
I am also concerned with the "hills" when I look at the elevation. I have down other bike tours but nothing this extreme. I have been out riding trying to get in shape. I guess I look at it that each day should get easier, especially as the elevation gets less. It will certainly be a challenge, but I will give it my best shot. I feel that I can always hop on the sag wagon if need be.
I haven't signed up, just waiting until September to see if this will actually go off. I don't know what the numbers usually are for this. Right now they seem ok.
Don't obsess with the numbers, the vertical rise is for the entire route that day. They are computer generated so everything counts, if you go up 10 feet in a quarter mile which is hardly noticeable it still counts as 10 feet towards the total. Will there be some long climbs? absolutely, especially day two when we go through the Sauratown Mountains. I have no doubt that you are capable of a lot more than you think you are. Just keep spinning, if you need a break, take a break, no shame in walking either.
The wind ripping through your helmet, the sun shine warm on your face, the speedometer climbing past 45 with plenty of downslope ahead - what could be better?