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Frequently Asked Questions
What Kind of Road Support is there?
RAW is happy to offer on-the-road support with the help of many great volunteers. We offer three guaranteed water and snack stops each day, including a fully catered lunch menu. In addition we provide a team of 4-5 roving support vehicles equipped with short wave radio sets, water, snacks and basic maintenance supplies.
"Great Rider Support... went beyond what was expected" - RAW Alumni
Can I bring a personal support vehicle?
Sorry, no. With the high level of road support that RAW provides, personal support vehicles are not needed; we recommend they not be used, unless special circumstances prevail and they are pre-approved by Cascade staff. In past years, non-riding loved ones have been allowed to volunteer, providing us with much-needed assistance during the event. This must be set up in advance.
Can I wear an earbud?
Cyclists must turn off and put away any headset or ear bud (s) connected to any electronic device capable of transmitting or playing a broadcast or recording. Distractions such as music players and radios are also not permitted. If necessary to check, use, or answer a cell phone or pager, the cyclist must first pull ofthe road or trail and stop.
Can I bring along a pet?
God knows we love them, but sorry…no pets are allowed in camp or on the ride
Can I bring along a non riding partner?
Please read above note about personal support vehicles.
How do RAW costs compare to other multi-day events?
RAW is a true value for a week of fully supported riding, even more so when you look at the "cost per mile"! Most "comparable" rides give you 10 to 30 less miles each day and cost hundreds of dollars more - RAW is a rider's ride!
"The friendly support and enthusiasm of the volunteers gave the ride a homegrown flavor that really made
it special" - RAW Alumni
Do I have to wear a helmet?
Helmets are mandatory on all Cascade Bicycle club events. We require that you wear a helmet whenever you are on your bike.
Why is RAW limited to only 250 riders?
This can best be answered by this statement, taken from the brochure of our inaugural event:
"RAW is purposefully being kept much smaller than other Cascade events: RAW Riders can enjoy a personal experience shared with like-minded cyclists. 'On your left' will very rarely, if ever, be heard! RAW will offer the kind of experience from which lifelong friendships can spring, of which lifelong memories will
be made!"
While most events are trying to grow as large as they can, we've lowered our limit from the 300 of the first year to just 250 wonderful cyclists like you.
Why is registration open to CBC members only for the month of January?
As part of our desire to reward club members for stepping up and supporting our mission, we decided to open all events just for members for the first month of the year. While we acknowledge the support and loyalty of riders on our individual events, it is only through strong club membership numbers that we can provide effective representation in the community. Plus, since riders receive substantial discounts on events, membership is not a financial hardship for most of our riders.
Can I sell or transfer my registration?
We do not offer transfers of any kind on Cascade Bicycle Club events. Riders may, however, claim a partial refund of their total fees up to 30 days prior to any event. For RAW, riders will forfeit their $250 non-refundable deposit (this amount is equal to approximately 25% of the total trip cost). Please read the detailed refund policy before signing up.
I am not 100% positive I can attend the ride. Should I still try to register in January?
If you are not sure you can attend for any reason but want to be sure of a spot there are a few options:
- When signing up in January, pay only the $250 non refundable deposit. On May 1, when you are due to mail in the balance, you can decide whether to cancel. If you cancel, you will then lose only the deposit.
- Pay in full in advance and buy independent trip insurance. Be sure to read the fine print and buy when you sign up (not afterward) to ensure that you are covered.
- Wait and see if people cancel. Check this site for openings in the late summer (between July 15 and August 15). We have last-minute openings every year.
What happens if I have to cancel my registration after May 1, 2011?
We provide a 75% refund of all fees above the $250 non refundable deposit until 30 days prior to the event. Unfortunately, because we must pay for all meals, lodging and equipment beginning 30 days before the event, we cannot refund any money after July 20, 2011. We strongly advise buying independent trip insurance as a guarantee against losing your registration fees
Where do we stay?
RAW camps primarily at public schools, county fair grounds and state parks. For more information, please take a look the "Accommodations" and "Route" sections in the Ride Guide.
What if we want to stay in a motel one or more nights?
While we feel you'll miss some of the "atmosphere" of the event (and there is no reduction in fees), we understand that camping is not for everyone. There are few motels in close proximity to several of our overnight stops; a complete list will be available in the RAW Ride Guide. If you decide to stay in a motel (for one night or several) all we ask is that you check out with us before going out on the course in the morning and that you check in immediately following the end of each day's ride. We cannot provide luggage transport so please bring a small backpack for your gear if you choose this option.
What about food/meals?
Starting with breakfast the first riding day, RAW will supply you with a great hot breakfast and dinner; along with water, sports drinks and a light lunch along the route. Light lunch not enough? Just make a sandwich or grab some extra fruit at breakfast. Vegetarian fare provided if requested. Vegans may take what they can, but are advised to pack their own victuals; refrigeration will be provided for marked containers. We revise the menu each year, and make a point of offering healthy and tasty menu choices daily.
"Food and showers - can't say enough about them" - RAW Alumni
What about showers and bathroom facilities?
One of the biggest compliments we receive each year from our riders is on our "Shower Truck"; individual stalls, good water pressure and all the hot water you want. Oh, sinks and mirrors out front!
"The showers alone were worth the price of admission! - RAW Alumni
Can I volunteer for RAW?
Each year it takes many dedicated volunteers help us produce this event. Please send us an email if you or a friend or spouse would like to help us out during the event. Volunteers are even able to ride a day or so and don't have to pay for food!
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