We're about 60ish days out from Bovine 4.0, which means we've officially entered the "Oh snap, this is actually happening" phase of event preparation. If you haven't started thinking about training, tire pressure, and whether your chamois can handle 88 miles of character-building terrain, well... now might be a good time to start.
The good news? There's still time to get your bovine together. The less good news? Time has a funny way of accelerating as October approaches, kind of like a descent on loose gravel when you realize your brakes need bleeding.
While it may not be every rider's udder of milk, The Bovine isn't a first-to-the-finish race. We're all about the timed segments, so you can hoof it in some parts, and mosey with your homies in other parts.
Here are this year's segments:
We'll reveal more details on these segments and podiums as we get closer, so stay tuned.
There's a bit more asphalt on this year's Big Bovine course. That's because we want to share an amazing descent down Chimney Rock Rd with you. The view into that valley is stunning, and our local riders are really stoked that we've added that section for the first time.
"What kind of tires should I use?" and "what gearing should I run?" are our two most common questions. My favorite tire for this area is Specialized's 42c Pathfinder. If you're riding the Big Bovine, our route through the Land Conservancy SLO can be a bit steep and loose in both directions. A Specialized Rhombus on the front adds a little extra stability and confidence.
You may have noticed that we're pretty close to 100' elevation gain for every mile. That means this is a "spin to win" kinda course. I personally prefer a SRAM Mullet set-up for the Bovine.
By the way, that $15 donation many of you gave during registration supports the amazing land stewardship LCSLO does here. Ours is the only event that it has allowed onto the ranch, so let's treat it with TLC.
Time to get serious about where you're resting your hooves. October in wine country books up faster than aid station snacks disappear, and we'd hate for you to end up sleeping in your car (unless that's your thing – no judgment).
Atascadero Options:
Paso Robles Options:
Our local and national partners make the Bovine what it is. Heck, we couldn't do it without the likes of SRAM. Sonja and her posse have helped make this an amazing experience from our very beginning. They also host a pretty lively aid station that seems to bring the right energy and treats at just the right time.
We'd also like to welcome The Brown Butter Cookie Company & Magic Mind to this year's Bovine Herd. Brown Butter has been an iconic local favorite since 2008. Magic Mind is sharing its mental performance and energy shots with all y'all.
Remember when Peloton Magazine was the prettiest bit of print in the Herd? Every month was a gorgeous magazine that felt like a coffee table book.
Well, the Peloton band has gotten back together, and it's producing the equally gorgeous Fausto Magazine. They're offering Bovine Classic riders a 10% subscription discount. To claim this offer, simply visit Fausto Magazine
That's all for now, Herd. Keep those wheels spinning and those training rides coming. October will be here before you know it.
Release The Bovine,
Bryoncé and The Monkeys
P.S. If you haven't registered yet, what are you waiting for? A personal invitation? Consider this it.
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