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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What’s included on the tour?
A: Overnight lodging will reside on campus in a UW-W residence hall. These dormitory rooms are based on double person occupancy, and will have two twin sized beds and shared bathrooms, You will need to bring your own linens (sheets, blanket or a sleeping bag), pillows, and towels; Delicious meals consisting of 2 breakfasts 2 lunches & 1 dinner; Informative Cycling College Seminars scheduled all weekend; Your choice of a Wisconsin Weekender “art” T-shirt or tour cap; Your own personal wearable safety triangle (yours to keep); cue sheets; SAG support; Fun nighttime activities; Mechanical support; Daily rest stops (fundraiser for local groups); Water stops; Marked cycling route and Tons of fun!
Q: Can you find me a roommate?
A: If you are traveling to the Weekender unaccompanied but would prefer to not to room by yourself, we will do everything we can to assign you a roommate (like gender), but we can't guarantee that we will be able to do so. If we are not able to assign you a roommate, then the Single Room Private supplement fee will be assessed.
Q: Is there a camping option available?
A: Sorry - there is no tent camping allowed on campus.
Q: What type of bike should you use on the tour?
A: whichever bike feels comfortable. Keep in mind that you will probably be on your bike between 5-6 hours each day. So choose a bike that fits you well and doesn’t cause you pain. If you are unsure if your bike fits you correctly, check with your local bike shop for a bike fit. Along with a comfy ride, get your bike in good mechanical shape prior to the tour. All these items are the ingredients for great tour!
Q: When do your rides fill up?
A: Historically, the tours have filled about a month before the event starts.
Q: How do I register for the tour?
A: You can register for the tour 3 ways:
1) Use the fast and easy online registration or 2) Print out a paper registration form or 3) Call or email us at 608-843-8412 or info@bikewisconsin.com and we will send out a registration form to you right away. To register click here
Q: What happens if I sign up and then find I can’t come?
A: Two Bicycles and a Map will give you a full refund (less a $55 processing fee, which covers our costs of handling the registration) until a date about six weeks before the event. After that, we commit to the bus company, moving company and others for the costs of your participation. After the Tour Refund Deadline Date, no refunds or transfers can be given. You may, however, sell your spot to someone else. More infomation about the Cancellation Policy.
Q: Do you have to sign up for the entire ride?
A: No. We recognize that people may have scheduling conflicts , so we allow sign-ups for either Saturday or Sunday.
Q: Can I bring my dog?
A: UW-Whitewater does not allow pets for health reasons.
Q: I want to stay in motels. Is that possible?
A. Yes. We provide a motel list. It is up to you to make your own motel arrangements.
Q: How do we mark the route?
A: We use paper signs which we attach to wire hoops. We do this for safety reasons. Other techniques like painting arrows on the road surface draw the riders’ attention down to the road, rather than ahead. We believe keeping your eyes focused down the road toward other riders and oncoming cross traffic is much safer than scanning the ground for painted marks.
Q: When do I have to start bicycling each day?
A: It’s up to you. Some people start out as soon as the sun comes up. Others take their time. We ask that everyone be on the road by 9 a.m.
Q: How fast do I have to ride?
A: It’s up to you. Our events are tours and there is no prize for finishing first. There are many things to do and see on the route each day.
Q: What happens if I have a mechanical breakdown on the road?
A: Flag down a SAG vehicle. There are SAG, mechanical support and official vehicles on the road and parked alongside the route during the event. They are radio-equipped and can communicate with each other. SAGs have basic tools and pumps and can call a mechanic in case of serious breakdowns. You can also call the SAG Help phone number provided on your cue sheet.
Q: What does SAG stand for?
A: There are two definitions given. One is "Support And Gear". The other is simply to “sag,” as in getting tired. No one’s sure of the exact origin and which is the correct one.
Q: I have a cell phone with me. If I see an accident, should I call the SAG Help line?
A: No. Call 911. Calling us wastes precious time. We have to get the information from you, which takes time, and then relay it. Errors or confusion can result. Calling 911 direct in an emergency is the quickest and best way to get help.
Q: What do I do if severe weather threatens?
A: If you are at the overnight site, immediately take cover in the school building. If you are on the road, get off your bike. Most bikes are metal and can conduct electricity. Seek shelter in a low area. Crouch on the ground. In the case of lightening, trees are not good shelter. Neither are open structures like park shelters.
Q: Can I get a list of all the riders with their addresses and phone numbers?
A: We have an obligation to respect the right to privacy of our event participants. Some have specifically asked us not to release their names and addresses to anyone else because they don’t want to end up on a bunch of mailing lists.
Q: What is the Family and Friends Emergency phone number?
A: When the tour is in session the Family and Friends Emergency phone number will be checked daily for messages. This phone number will be given out in the Spring newsletter. Please give this number to your family and friends. When we receive a message it will be posted on the daily message board.
Q: Where can I go for questions during the tour?
A: An information table will be located at the campus. It will be staffed by voulunteers and usually by the local Chamber of Commerces. They will have information about the local town i.e. restaurants, laundry, local sites and other attractions.
Q: How can I get a message to another rider?
A: Message boards will be posted at schools to provide rider information and if you want to post a message to another rider.
Q: Do I need a helmet?
A: An approved ANSI or Snell helmet is strongly recommended. You’re smart to join this tour, we want you to coming back again. Please wear your helmet!
Q: Do you support local bicycling advocacy?
A: Two Bicycles and a Map, Ltd has donated over $33,000 to promote bicycle advocacy in Wisconsin. We are committed to keep biking strong and great in Wisconsin!
Q: What about bike safety?
A: Your safety on the tour is the upmost importance to us. Bicycles are considered vehicles in Wisconsin and with that comes the responsibility of knowing and abiding by the Rules of the Road. Also check out the many bike safety classes offered by the Bicycle Federation of Wisconsin.
