Looking for a super challenging bike ride? The Mount Shasta Super Summit Century ride is billed as being, “Tougher than the famed Markleeville Death Ride”
Are you ready for this tough ride?
The Mount Shasta Super Summit Century ride is so, so hard. This extreme cycling event is not for the faint of heart; the route climbs 16,000 feet over 130 miles. With spectacular scenery of the Mt. Shasta area, it still retains the feel of a casual group ride with great food and support.
The first time I tried to complete this, it brought me to my knees. I consider myself someone who can conquer almost any cycling event. I’ve got three Death Rides the Terrible Two Double Century, and number of challenging cycling events under my belt. But, Lord, this is a tough one. Especially if it’s hot.
I spent the first hour shivering uncontrollably in the crisp mountain air, only to completely melt down in a little pile of salt the last five miles. I made a huge error by getting caught up in a competitive hammer session ascending the second climb, Mumbo Pass. Felt great then; later on…not so much.
After decending Mumbo Pass, the bomb dropped. I began the climb up to Castle Lake knowing trouble was trembling in my legs. I simply ran out of gas, or rather, electrolytes. I sat at the top of Castle Lake hoping to quell the queasiness. My cycling buddies convinced me to decend down to the lunch stop and re-evaluate after a sandwich. After a half hour break at lunch, I tried to finish the ride.
On the final climb I couldn’t go much faster than a snail without my stomach turning completely upside down. It was not fun. I would have been fine had I paced myself early on and done a better job of hydrating. Live and learn.
Anyway, it honestly is a great ride. I still want to return and attempt it again but can’t fit it into my schedule this summer. Maybe next year.
Note: they have added a jersey option.
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