Event Overview & Highlights
- Location: Starts/ends in Lamoille, NV (near Elko).
- Format: Gravel Fondo (ride it or race it).
- Terrain: A mixture of well-maintained gravel, washboards, and paved surfaces, featuring sweeping valleys, rolling hills, and challenging, high-altitude terrain.
- Highlights: Incredible views of the 11,387-foot Ruby Dome, potential to see Sandhill Cranes, and passing through the historic Lee Schoolhouse.
- Purpose: A fundraiser for the Rotary Club of Elko Desert Sunrise, supporting local youth leadership and community projects.
Course Descriptions
- 120.5-Mile Ruby Loop (The "Wild"): A demanding 120.5-mile route with 6,270 ft of elevation gain, traversing 64.5 miles of gravel and 56 miles of pavement. It circumnavigates the central Ruby Mountains, featuring significant climbs and a demanding final 18-mile gravel segment.
- 62-Mile Secret Pass Loop: A 4,365 ft elevation gain route with 41 miles of gravel and 21 miles of pavement, taking riders over the scenic Secret Pass.
- 38-Mile Lee Loop: A 2,015 ft elevation gain route (30 miles gravel, 8 miles pavement) that takes riders along the base of the mountains to the historic Lee Schoolhouse.
- 22-Mile Pleasant Valley Loop: A 870 ft elevation gain ride (14 miles gravel, 8 miles pavement) perfect for a shorter, scenic experience.
Key Participant Details
- E-Bikes: Allowed (Class 1 and 3) for the 22, 38, and 62-mile loops, starting 15 minutes before standard bikes.
- Self-Sufficiency: In the spirit of early gravel racing, riders should be prepared for repairs, although limited SAG support is provided.
- Road Conditions: Expect everything from fast, smooth gravel to loose sand/gravel and potential water crossings.
- Registration: Open early February.
Lodging & Area Information
Ruby Roubaix Highlights
Frequently Asked Questions
What distance options are available at Ruby Roubaix?
Ruby Roubaix offers four route distances to suit different skill levels and goals: 22-mile, 38-mile, 62-mile, and 120.5-mile options. Whether you're looking for a casual scenic ride or an epic gravel challenge, there's a distance that matches your ambition and fitness level.
What type of bike do I need for Ruby Roubaix?
- Gravel or Cyclocross Bike: This is considered the "perfect way" to experience the course due to the mix of paved roads and rugged gravel. Disc brakes are highly recommended for consistent stopping power on steep descents like Harrison Pass.
- Mountain Bike: A hardtail or rigid cross-country mountain bike is also a great option, particularly for those seeking more comfort or stability on the looser sections.
- E-Bikes: Class 1 and 3 pedal-assist e-bikes are permitted for all routes except the 120.5-mile Ruby Loop.
Is Ruby Roubaix a timed race or a recreational ride?
Ruby Roubaix is a gravel fondo, which means you can ride it or race it - the choice is yours. Whether you're chasing personal achievement on the timed segments or enjoying the spectacular Ruby Mountains scenery at your own pace, the event welcomes both competitive and recreational riders.
How challenging is the terrain on Ruby Roubaix?
The course features challenging terrain as you ride through rural northern Nevada with vast expanses of lightly traveled roads and climbs near the Ruby Mountains. The varied distance options allow riders of different fitness levels to choose a route that matches their ability - shorter distances are more accessible, while longer routes provide a true gravel endurance challenge.
What should I expect in Lamoille before and after the event?
Lamoille is a picturesque small town nestled at the base of the Ruby Mountains near Elko, Nevada, offering authentic small-town hospitality. The start and finish at this charming location provides a welcoming atmosphere for riders to gather, refuel, and celebrate their accomplishment after experiencing the event's stunning mountain scenery.
Will there be support and aid stations on the course?
Check the event website for the latest details on support station locations, water stops, and mechanical assistance available along each route distance. Aid station placement often varies based on route length, so knowing their locations helps you plan your nutrition and hydration strategy.
What finisher rewards or recognition does Ruby Roubaix offer?
Ruby Roubaix celebrates every rider's personal accomplishment across all distance options. Check the event website for details on finisher medals, awards, timing results, and any special recognition for different categories or achievement levels.
Reviews
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