Anyone ever do the Enchanted Circle Century in NM

[snowtulip]

Hi Everyone,
Stepping out of my comfort zone, I'm going to do the Enchanted Circle in September. I don't regularly road bike, I mountain bike, so I'll have to get used to that.

Just wanted any feedback from people that have done it so I can plan training accordingly (ie crazy hills, unbearable heat, etc.). So if you've done it please give me any feedback you can.

Thanks for the help!
snowtulip

[wonderwoman]

I haven't done the Enchanted Circle Century, but I have done a couple of tours on part of your route. I went from Taos to Questa, and into Colorado. The Garapata Ridge is a steep but not long climb from the Taos side. Looks like you'll be coming in the opposite direction. Expect challenging and beautiful riding. You should be getting the very beginnings of the fall colors --temps probably in 70s, but be prepared for rain/snow, especially in the high country around Angel Fire and Bobcat Pass. I'll see if I can dig any more specifics up on the route. New Mexico rocks! Have fun!

[snowtulip]

Thanks for the information! It should be great and fingers crossed it's not too hot!

[denda]

My husband and I have done this the last 2 years. It was very cold starting out. I would suggest having full finger gloves for the start of the ride. It is a tough ride for me, because of the long climbs. Be prepared for Bobcat Pass! It is a KILLER!!!!

[Aggie_Ama]

Denda- How did you prep for the ride? Is Dumas a flat area?

My husband and I are going to do this next year as part of our vacation. We planned to do it this year but he couldn't get the time.Now I have a year to get ready! We live on the edge of the hill country, so I get a lot of climbing but it sure isn't mountain climbing.

[denda]

Dumas is FLAT, FLAT, FLAT. We just try to get in some long training rides. We are never ready for Bobcat Pass! We have to stop several times on the way up it just to survive. But once you are to the top it is all downhill to Red River!