Friendly Advice
Things we've learned from watching people make avoidable mistakes on these roads for 15 years. Read this. Especially the part about descending slowly.
Pace Yourself — Really
This is not a race. No winners. No prizes. If you're the first one back you may end up working the Taco Feast. The goal is Jensen Point. Not Jensen Point first.
Descend Slowly
Most roads get worse every year. Potholes, gravel, broken pavement. Some downhill turns are genuinely tricky. Slow down. We don't want to give the fire department any business.
Stay Right — Always
You will think you're on a one-lane road. You are not. Every road on every P2P course is two-way. Stay right. Especially on descents.
Share the Road
P2P has a good relationship with the cars, horses, walkers, tractors, and deer that also use these roads. No peloton riding. Single file when cars need to pass.
Ride in Order
Early checkpoints close early. Late checkpoints don't open until later. Ride the hills in sequence so the stamps and food are actually there when you arrive.
Bring Your Phone
Download the course map before you leave. Cell service exists but varies on the island. Don't assume you can pull up the map mid-climb on a spotty connection.
Use the Restrooms
Restrooms are at several checkpoints — marked on course maps. Plan ahead. Residents have been surprised by roadside behavior. Don't be the reason we have to say more.
Ride the Spirit
P2P riders aren't expecting close passing or racer energy. Be kind. This is a community event on a small island and people remember how you behaved.
About E-Bikes
E-bikes are welcome at P2P. They're a great way to extend your range and make the climbing manageable.
However — don't hop on an e-bike for the first time on ride day and just go. P2P requires more than power. Bike handling skills are essential on narrow, steep, potholed roads with 400 other riders. Train on whatever you're going to ride before the event.
Still have questions? The P2P Basics page has the full event overview.