Stupid question - but I need help

[Jen12]

I'm doing my first bib required type of ride this weekend. I've done others before, but this is the first time I've had to number up for a ride. I've only done it for running events.

So, here is my dumb question: does the bib go in the front or the back of your jersey? It seems like nobody would be able to see it on the front.

Then there is a sticker with my number that I assume goes on my helmet. Front? Side?

And there's a bike check ticket. No idea where that goes. I guess the bike check is for the post-race event, right?

There aren't any instructions for this stuff in the race packet. I guess you're just supposed to know how it all works. Unfortunately, I don't.

[Eden]

This is a charity type ride right? Exactly how you pin the number on isn't usually too important. Put it on your back in a position that is comfortable for you and in a spot that doesn't block your pockets. Generally they are only necessary to allow you access to the rest stops/food. Btw - if it is tyvek it gets pinned to your jersey - if it is cardboard it's for your bike - some rides will give you both. The sticker is for your helmet and is usually for the photographer - so you can be identified, so put it on the front or if you don't care about photographs leave it off.

[tulip]

I usually pin it to the back of my jersey above the pockets. It seems high, but it's out of the way. If you pin it to your pockets, just don't pin your pockets shut! Been there. Done that.

[Abarnes]

agree with Edens' comments, but to add:
Use at least four pins, and pin thru the material and jersey - not just run the pin thru the little hole in the corner. Nothing worse than having the parachute look, plus the fluttering chattering sound as you ride.

here is a handy guide: http://planetadventurerace.com/bike/race-numbers.shtml

lastly, save the tyvek - makes GREAT tire boot material. Just cut into strips and stuff in saddle bag.

[Jen12]

Thank you! It should be fun. It's a bike tour before a marathon, so it's super early. If I'm awake, I'm sure it'll be very enjoyable!

[smilingcat]

if you don't want the parachute look, you can also wad it up like a waste paper, unfold it and wad it up a few more times. All the wrinkles in the paper will keep it from fluttering.

[SheFly]

if you don't want the parachute look, you can also wad it up like a waste paper, unfold it and wad it up a few more times. All the wrinkles in the paper will keep it from fluttering.

But do not do that in a race - EVER! It will get you disqualified in a worst case scenario.

The BEST pinning, takes 7 or 8 pins. One in each corner (through the number, NOT the hole), one on top (and maybe bottom), and one on each side. No flutter and no worry about potentially losing your number.

I agree with Eden on leaving the helmet sticker off. You will be able to find yourself in the photos, and the sticker leaves a mess on your helmet.

Have fun!

SheFly

[Eden]

But do not do that in a race - EVER! It will get you disqualified in a worst case scenario.

I'm a baaaaaad girl.... I always squish up tyvek numbers and flatten them back out.... I fold the edges over too sometimes, another no - no, but the darn things cover most of my back and my pockets otherwise..... Fortunately we've switched to cloth ones (that are smaller!) up here in both the WA and OR racing associations, so I don't have to much any more....

[SheFly]

Eden - if you ever race in New England, be sure not to crumple or fold your number Our officials here are ruthless on that one! I think, partly, because we have a lot of races with cameras at the finish, and the crumpling/folding creates problems.

I've even heard an official tell someone with long hair that they HAD to tie it up because their number was obstructed. Glad I have short hair . Also glad not to be petite - those numbers can be HUGE!

SheFly