FAQ

So just how difficult is this ride? Should a beginning cyclist try this?

Yes! The Cottonwood 200 is a ride, not a race—cyclists of all ages can complete it with the different route options (both gravel and road) we’ll have available this year. You’ll have the option to do shorter routes or take a rest day if needed, as we’ll be based in Council Grove for the whole weekend. If you’re up to the challenge of riding longer routes, we’ll have those available as well.

What about the hills or elevation changes?

While Kansas does not have mountains, the heart of this ride goes through the Flint Hills, which can be surprising in their gradient and length. In addition, Kansas weather can add difficulty – late May can be hot, and there is always the strong possibility of wind. While the exact direction and strength of wind is impossible to predict, it is likely that you will have at least one day with a headwind and one with a refreshing tailwind.

Is this good training for other rides later in the season?

Yes! The 3-day length of the Cottonwood 200 makes it a perfect warm up ride for those planning week-long rides such as the Bike Across Kansas and other cross-state rides. Besides the physical training, the Cottonwood 200 can help you test gear and refine your packing list. The ride’s terrain and date on the calendar also makes it a great training ride for those planning participation in other Flint Hills rides such as Unbound Gravel. Gravel routes are an option on all three days of the 2024 ride.

What bike should I bring? Are e-bikes permitted?

There will be both paved and gravel routes, so the bike you bring will depend on which routes you’d like to ride. Because we will be based in Council Grove the whole weekend, you are welcome to bring more than one bike and ride both paved and gravel.

E-bikes are permitted as well. You will be able to charge them at the high school, but plan ahead if you’re riding a longer route and need another battery mid-ride.

How many people will be on this ride?

The Cottonwood 200 is limited to 300 participants due to the accommodations available in Council Grove. Once that number is reached, we will announce it and close registration. At that point a waiting list will be maintained in case any spots open up.

Where and when does the ride start?

The ride will start Saturday morning, May 25, 2024 from Council Grove High School. The high school will be open after 6 pm Friday evening—May 24—for those arriving the night before.

I can’t ride all 3 days. Are 1 and 2 day options available?

Yes! Both 1 and 2-day options are available if you can’t ride the whole weekend. See your registration options on BikeReg for more information.

What meals will be available?

During the ride, we will have SAG (rest) stops with food and water available to riders. There will also be gas stations along the routes where you can purchase additional items. We are also planning catered meals on Saturday, Sunday, and Monday that are included with registration (see below).

• Saturday Breakfast – St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church, Council Grove
• Saturday Dinner – Lasagna in the High School Cafeteria, Council Grove
• Sunday Brunch – Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, Strong City
• Monday Lunch – Subway in the High School Cafeteria, Council Grove

All riders will also be given a $5 coupon for a beer or a soft drink at the Riverbank Brewery in Council Grove (may be used Saturday or Sunday).

Your registration includes biscuits and gravy, lasagna, bierocks, Subway, and homemade pie…AND craft beer AND wonderful SAG support!

If you are interested in other dining options, check out the Council Grove Dining website.

Where do I park and is it safe to leave a vehicle?

You may park your vehicles at our home base (Council Grove High School) throughout the weekend. It is a safe place to leave your vehicle and will give you easy access should you need to drive anywhere throughout the weekend.

Can I park my RV or camper on the school grounds?

Yes, you are welcome to park your RV or camper in the high school parking lot. The school does not permit any parking on the grass. Please keep in mind that there are NO hookups for water or electricity available for your vehicle. You will need to use the water and electricity inside the high school for showers, charging, etc.

What should I pack?

The suggested packing list on the Packing List page has a list of recommended items.

What are the overnight accommodations?

Participants will be able to stay overnight Friday, Saturday, and Sunday in the air-conditioned gym at Council Grove High School.  This is “indoor camping” – bring a sleeping bag and air mattress or other padding. Those wanting an outdoor experience can camp on the grounds of the high school, while still having access to the restrooms, hot showers, and a common area. Those wanting other accommodations can find lodging options at the Council Grove Lodging website.

Will there be a place to charge my devices?

Yes. Charging stations will be available at the high school in Council Grove.

Are non-riding participants welcome? Can they volunteer?

Yes! Non-riding partners and friends are welcome. You can purchase extra meal tickets and/or t-shirts for them. If they have some free time and are willing to volunteer during the ride, we would welcome their help!

Riders who are also willing to volunteer the equivalent of 4 hours during the weekend will receive a $35 discount on a 2 or 3-day registration. The discount will be applied after registration as a partial refund once a volunteer has their assignment.

Volunteers also receive a free ride t-shirt and a catered meal for each day they volunteer.

Please contact us at cw200bw@gmail.com for more information on volunteer opportunities. The volunteer coordinator will contact you about an assignment.

Can I buy a t-shirt to commemorate the ride?

T-shirts are included in the full, 3-day entry fee. You may also purchase extras (especially if you don’t plan to do the full 3 days). All t-shirt orders must be received by May 5, 2024. T-shirts can be ordered during the registration process if it is before this date.

Further questions? Email us at kvbctopeka@yahoo.com.