Chile Pepper Ride, Dallas, TX

August 18, 2007

This ride improves every year, but it still was not as well done as Cedar Hill’s first “Ride to the Hills” done this year over similar areas. The course markings are just not laid out the way a cyclist would see and interpret them. A note to the director on course markings: When the route diverges, say the 40 mile cut off from the 60 route I suggest it should have been marked with two arrows, one straight with a 60 under it and one that turns with a 40 under it. The way it was laid out was to have an arrow that turns toward a side street, with a “bike ride” sign visible on the side street. The 60 mile sign was sprayed on the route too far ahead to read it when you are paying attention to the first sign seen. The maps provided w The signs for the 60 were posted but not where I would think would create the least amount of confusion. An area where a route diverges from another should show both. One arrow suggests that all routes go that way. I also find with some of my sunglasses that color coded arrows used for different routes, that the colors are hard to differentiate.

I haven’t ridden this in a couple of years but I’m glad it’s still on. It is still very hilly but the course has changed somewhat and doesn’t go through Cedar Hill anymore. The new course is OK and it has preserved some really good climbs and maybe even increased the number of steep down hills. The course is less of a loop and very much and out-and-back type of course now. I had some people drafting off me at the 40-60 mile split and called it out. I thought it was obvious but I heard some others complaining that the turn was not well marked. The rest stops could use better signage as some of them were not obvious. I really like the first/last rest stop which has a covered wooden bridge and although there were signs it could use some promotion. I haven’t read the reviews in a while but I am going to try to remember to take Friday off next year and volunteer to help set up and mark the course.

Two words for the organizers… Traffic Control.
I realize that given the location it may be difficult to get traffic control arranged, or get it cheap, but having to stop at 3-5 traffic lights in the first 2 miles due to a lack of traffic control just kinda spoils the rest of the ride. From the ride start to Loop 12, I ended up having to stop at every light and on the bridge across Loop 12. It was very frustrating. If you can’t arrange for good traffic control, perhaps a route change would be in order? Also, better route markings would be nice. There were several occasions where the only reason I knew which way to go was because the people around me knew the route. If I remember, at the 40 mile split, there were markings saying that the 60 mile route went straight AFTER the turn. </rant>
Other than the issues cited above, it was a great ride. I’m not that partial to lollipop rides, but the out and back part of this ride was rather enjoyable. Taking Texas Flume both ways was great, and thankfully, the down hill side was on the way back. More climbing than “Head for the Hills”, and a very scenic ride across the Joe Pool dam. I’m a bit torn on if this gets added to my DNR (do not ride) list or not. I like the route once it crosses south of I-20, but it’s that first and last 8 or so miles that really puts me off.
The one rest stop I stopped at had very friendly volunteers and was well stocked, and the homemade Mexican food at the end was very good. Didn’t try the pool, given that it was overcast and threatening to rain, but that’s a nice touch as well.

We the Red Hot Chili Pepper again this year and while the volunteers at the rest stops were nice and friendly the markings on the route were awful! We did the 60+ miles (more like 65 miles than 60) I swore I would not do this ride again in the first half of the ride. The beginning was a complete nightmare with all the twist and turns. Also, somehow I missed the first 2 rest stops. Not sure how that happened- again maybe the route markings need some attention. Lastly, the parking was crazy- I don’t remember last year being so convoluted. 5 minutes before the ride was suppose to start we saw all kinds of people making loops and back tracking trying to figure out where the parking entrance was.

I have ridden this ride 3 years in a row and I can say that it improves every year. I had no problems with the maps or marking on the 62 mile route. Rest areas were stocked and had friendly enthusiastic helpers. The big change for the ride this year is that the 62 mile route went across the dam at Joe Pool lake going out and coming back. Previously the route only led back across the dam. The major change with this route is the saddle back leading from Grand Prairie to Cedar Hill. This is a spirit breaker. Make that hill and you'll see the rest of the ride as all down hill... except for that last mile hehe. I just can't say enough at how a small ride can make a big impression. I don't know how many rode the ride but I know a lot of people that I've seen before.
I noticed that some of the early road surface had been replaced since last years ride. Overall the roads were well kept and I can't recall a really bad road on the 62 mile route.
For me this is my warm up for the Hotter than Hell 100. There's nothing finer than finishing a tough course a week before taking on a grueling ride.
I look forward to be challenged once again in 2008

August 19, 2006

This ride continues to improve each year. The course (I did the 40-miler) is one of the best: nice hills, great views, good roads, and that great plunge from the top of Cedar Hill down to Joe Pool Lake. The traffic control this year was very good. And getting a tostada lunch in air conditioning after a hot summer ride is always a nice touch.
Now for making it even better:
- it was a little disorganized at the staggered start…there needs to be signage and announcements that everyone can hear (get a PA system) explaining what groups are leaving and when
- the road marking and signage could still use improvement; they were passable this year…but get LARGER signs pointing out turns, and put them 50 yards before the intersection instead of right at the corner
- putting bicyclists and cars together on Beltline/Mansfield Rd. (40 mile route only) should work…after all, aren’t we all supposed to follow the traffic laws? And don’t motorists ALWAYS take care when passing bicyclists on a two-lane road (since two lanes were coned off for construction)? It would have been helpful to have some signs warning motorists of the bike rally on such a busy thoroughfare, and maybe police/volunteer presence along that section of the route
- I put this one on the evaluation surveys at the completion of the ride EVERY year (thank you for asking our opinions), but it appears to not make the list of improvements: CONE OFF the right lane of Davis coming up to the finish: it is hot out, cyclists are tired after 20, 40 or 60 miles of riding…and the last thing we need is cars screaming up behind us in the right lane while we are climbing a LONG hill to the finish and forcing us on to the shoulder and its lovely collection of glass shards

I was in charge of Ride Marshals last year, and this year I took on the task of marking the 20 and 40 mile course as well as PART of the 60 mile course.
Jeff at B and B bicycles marked the 60 mile portion that was not interacting with the other courses. I had two local volunteers, neither of whom rides a bike. We loaded up signs, spray paint and a cooler of cold water. We left at 4:15..on Friday ..the day before the event.
That was the earliest I could get anyone to help volunteer with me. We went out, during rush hour, and marked a great deal of that course with arrows. I was the Lancaster ride director, and we are well known for the markings on our bike ride for the Greater Dallas Bicyclists event.
It was a L O N G hot day out there, and we marked that course like never before. We finished up just as it got dark, and I managed to make a "proper" finish line with the help of the event director, Juanita by headlight beams from our cars!
I was exhausted from hopping in and out of the car, dodging traffic and dealing with 100 degree plus temps! What I want to know is if anyone had a problem with the course marking? The signs were too dainty to stick in that HARD DRY ground, but we managed to get them in at places that REALLY needed them.
Otherwise we marked the course with paint ( we use the kind that goes away after about a week, so as not to offend anyone. )
I like to think this was a vast improvement. Frankly, whenever I see a problem on a ride, I offer to be there to fix it....something I would like to see others do? Criticism is good, but criticism with an offer of help is even better!
Gail Spann

Great ride overall! I will definitely recommend this for next year. The upsides: 1. Nice course. 2. Not far to drive from Dallas. 3. Early start at 7:30 helped beat the heat 4. Loved the one long stretch through the country under the shady trees. 5. Hills early in the ride were challenging, but eventually flattened out – until the return ride to the finish. 6. Roads were as good any other I have ridden in a 60 mile ride. 7. Staff and volunteers were courteous, polite and very enthusiastic. 8. 95% of the course was adequately marked. The downsides: 1. The roll-out was a little awkward with all the twists and turns eventually spilling out onto Davis – but I suppose there is not much that can be done considering the location. 2. One of the few poorly marked roads almost caused a pile-up as one rider saw and attempted the turn when the rest did not. 3. The 40 mile rest stop ran out of ice. Bottled water was certainly an unexpected luxury, but not when it seemed to come at the expense of ice. Managing heat was as much a factor as hydration when temps were nearing the century mark. Conclusion: I definitely give it a thumbs up! Aside from the near crash, the upsides far, far outweigh the downsides!

This was My second year on the RHCP. I thinnk this is probably one of the mopst challenging rides throughout the Year. With 4 severe climbs through the 59? mile route, riders know that they are in for a challenge. the RHCP took note of comments and critiques from last years riders. Improved signs, slightly different southern route, and an overall enthusiastic group made for a fun day. I will note that reststop 3 was late in getting setup. this was clearly due to some miscommunication. I missed one turn in Cedar Hill. The road had been sprayed but there wasn't a sign out for the right turn. I give the folks for the Calumet Community center a Big thumbs up on a very challenging ride and will be out again next year.

This was my second year riding this rally and I did the 60 mile route this year. I had no problems with same day registration and received my map and t-shirt. This is a lower budget ride than some so there were fewer volunteers, but they were just as eager to help. I think there was mis-communication about the start because someone on a bullhorn just said “Go” and we all “went”. I estimate about 700 riders. There was no police escort as advertised or like last year’s ride. There were police manning each controlled intersection stopping traffic. The course was marked with road paint and signs. Road conditions and course selection were good. It had some nice long hills for grinding up and flying down. I arrived early at 40 mile rest stop and it was well supplied, but started running low on ice before I left. I saw SAG a couple times on the road, but this is the type of ride you should come prepared to help yourself. At the finish they had a medical tent outside(?) and free Red Bull. Inside the auditorium A/C, they had free bean/beef tostadas, corn chips, PowerAde, water, bananas and cookies. I enjoyed this ride and the views around the lake and in the hills were great. I’ll be back to ride again next year.

August 20, 2005

The number of riders was noticibly smaller this year than in the past few and I don't think it was because of the stifling heat. If this rally doesn't find help in correcting it's shortcomings, I predict that smaller turnouts each year will eventually spell it's doom. I sincerely hope they find experienced people who will convince the current staff that they absolutely must rid themselves of the real estate modeled signs and produce signs that scream out, "turn here". Oh yeah, you not only post signs on the outbound route, but also on the inbound routes. This ride takes in some of the most scenic beauty in north Texas and would be a shame if it went away due to hard headedness on the part of people producing this rally. JR

I have been an avid rider for the past 15 years. The Red Hot Chili Pepper (Dallas, 20 August 2005) was the 21st ride that I have participated in this season in Texas. As such, I believe that I have a reasonably good level of experience to provide a review of this ride.
Before I considered participating in this ride, I did read the reviews of the past rides that have been posted, as well as the comments of the ride director that were posted on the Red Hot Chili Pepper web site promising toaddress rider concerns. Therefore I decided to give this ride a chance, knowing that it had been a problem plagued ride in past years.
Since I prefer to register on line, I chose the PayPal option. This provided the first indication of things to come. Rather than a normal ride registration form asking for such things as T-shirt size, ride option, and allowing the rider to digitally sign the normal waiver, it asked me to make a donation. Considering the fact that this is one of the more expensive rides ($30 for pre registration, $35 day of ride registration), I was surprised. Later in the week, I received an Email from the Projects & Events Manager informing me that I had to print out the waiver, sign it, and bring it with me to the ride. As it turns out, I was fortunate that I had that Email with me on the day of the ride.
On the day of the ride, I normally like to arrive at least an hour before the ride start to allow sufficient time to check in and pick up my rider packet. While I did leave enough time, the Calumet Community Center is fairly hard to find and many participants where driving around looking for the start. I looked for almost 30 minutes for the ride start. It must have been amusing for the locals to watch the various vehicles with bikes traveling this way and that like rats in a maze. Eventually, I did find the start and jogged over to the packet pickup area in the center at 7:00 am. There was a 20 minute wait in the pre registration line. This was due to two people who needed to look through a complete list of names because they had not been sorted by last name. The day of ride registration had no wait and had more people working that task. 
I must admit that I really did not like having only 10 minutes to get my bike off the car, prepare it for the ride, put my gear on and get to the
ride start. But I did manage to do so. The 100k ride did start on time and we were off. Unfortunately, the narrow roads, slow ride start, and sharp turns made for a rough start. There was very good traffic control at each high traffic intersection on the way out of town by the local police and ride volunteers. 
I would like to note here that while there were several high traffic roads we traveled upon (either by design as part of the route or by accident when we were off course), there was not a single stretch of this nasty chip seal pavement. Hooray !!!!
Once out on the course, the real challenges began. The 100k course had a few real nice rolling hills (over all climbing for the ride was only 1500 feet). This coupled with a good head wind on the way out pushed many of the riders. But it was persistent, so the wind became a tail wind on the return trip. The rest stops were marginal with little shade to rest. A notable exception was rest stop 4, which was manned by volunteers from the National Guard. Their rest stop was the best on the ride and compared well with most of the rides I have participated in this season. At least each rest stop I did visit had at least ice and water.
This ride was the worst marked ride that I have participated in this season and ranks near the worst marking I have seen for all the rides I have participated in over the last 15 years. While it is clear that the ride organizers created some very nice signs (white background with script lettering) that were placed along the route, they were hard to read from a bike, easy to miss, and easy for the locals to remove. And while I believe there was an after thought to put arrows on the road, the lack of consistent color and the lack of a professional image made them hard to distinguish from arrows placed on the road from other events. Also, there did not appear to be any signs telling the drivers that a bike ride was in progress. On the high traveled roads without shoulders, this is a must. Hopefully they look at the Texas Bicycle Coalition web site next year and get a few warning signs.
Riders were constantly going off course. It was not unusual to see a group of riders on the side of the road trying to figure out which way to go. I went off course twice. If it had not been for some local riders the last time I was off course, the group I was with may not have ever rejoined the ride.
Also, in at least on instance, a ride volunteer sat in the comfort of his air-conditioned SUV watching the riders go this way and that. I hope he was amused because the riders were not!!!! 
On a brighter note, while I did not see any marked sag wagons, a support truck from the Richardson Bike Mart was constantly patrolling the 100k route and did help a number of riders. 
At least the ride organizers did invite the Greater Dallas Bicycle Club to participate as ride marshals. You could easily identify them by the unique red jersey they wore. They seemed to be to only ones who had a clue as to the actual route. By the last half of the ride, if you saw one, you rode with them to the finish so as to not become part of the lost patrol. By the way, the Greater Dallas Bicycle Club puts on a great ride in the spring each year.
Bottom line, this is an expensive ride compared to the large number of rides available in Texas. For the price of the ride, a rider should expect a first class event. But this ride definitely is not a first class event. They need a lot of help from experienced riders to make the quality of the event consistent with the price paid for the event.
Therefore, I would recommend that future riders carefully consider the past history of this ride before choosing to participate next year. If you do plan to participate, bring a cell phone, GPS receiver, and plan to be fully self-supporting.

Bless their hearts...they are sure trying to make this a go. But much improvement is still needed. First I have to say the course they have selected is first class. Smooth roads and some steep hills followed by LONG, LONG DOWN HILL plunges! A real thrill and definitely not for the weak at heart. Not much of those 2-3 mile grades like Rockwall. No chipseal that I saw.Plenty of time to recover from each hill. The 60 mile course had plenty of rest stops well positioned on the route. There was a distinct improval with police actually stopping traffic at many crossings.But...there were still several dangerous crossings and red lights with no crossing monitors or police.Please, please put volunteer route guards at every stop sign and at key turns along with signs.
And as for the route signs...well it is obvious that they tried...but they still are unclear on the concepr. Road markings with chalk spray are fine...but be consistant with the colors! Sometimes they used green sometimes orange...but for wrong routes! At several key turns there were absolutely no signs and dozens of people were making wrong turns and getting helplessly lost. Luckily I did not get lost...but it was close a couple times where I was just guessing.The road signs they did were too small, mostly unreadable, and too few. There must be a large93'x4') roadside Corplex sign 100 meters before each turn (That's every turn) showing '100K" , etc, and an arrow. Place another such sign at the turn and another showing straight ahead 100 meters after the turn.
Too many or the arrows which seemed to be green when they should have been orange for the 100K route, were very small, right at the turn and in a shadow. Bad idea. People riding in groups fly right by these. I saw a lot of very ticked off people. I suggest they consider serving cokes at the finish as just gatorade or water does not have enough suger.YTry some pizza too. The taco's, rice and refried beans aren't what distance riders need at the finish. Coming up Davis hill at the finish was made much more realistic for riders with the rest stop at McDonalds! Great idea. Sure beats Jefferson. The end route monitors were in place and good. The 2003 ride was definitely a "F", this years is a "C". Work on the details needed and it can be brought up to an "A". Again...the basic course is top notch. Don't change it

Before this ranting and raving, I want to say thank you the gentleman who said a few words of prayer before the ride and for remembering Mr. Mahoney who had the accident at the crit site. I did not know him but this sure did strike a cord with me. So now the saga continues.....The good, the bad, and the ugly. Let's start with the good. There was post-ride lunch that was quite tasty and free Red Bulls. I never had one until this day. Not too bad either. And having lunch inside with the AC was such a treat after riding roughly 62 miles. We filled out our comment forms and as we handed them in, the lady was so thankful. The rest stops seemed well stocked with the usual fruits and sports drink and water. I even saw one person set up water on the road in front of his property. This was not an official rest stop, just someone who was thinking of us. The sign there said "Biker H2O." The two little girls at rest stop 3 (I think) did an outstanding job with the wet paper towels. There were some signs and some arrows and traffic control. I really liked the route and I liked the challenge of the hills with the wind. So now the bad. There needs to be at least 2 to 3 PRE-REGISTRATION CHECK IN TABLES. They only had one and I should not have to wait as long as I did to check in at 6:30 in the morning. The rest stops could have used some salty snacks like pickles and peanuts or trail mix. I was encrusted with large salts by the time I was done riding. The very first rest stop was not even set up when I went by it. They were still unloading the car! It was not in the best location either, right on the curbside. They need to give the riders a better way to put on their numbers with a specific color or use bands or ribbons, something. There were several club rides happening at the same time and some of the Pepper riders wound up following the wrong people. The wind was knocking down some of the signs; therefore painted arrows on the roadway is a must as a backup for such things. The arrows were there but you really had to look for them. And then some of them did not indicate which direction you were to go until the very last moment. Makes for dangerous riding. Each route should have it's own color and properly marked. There was one really long stretch of road that had no signs or markings and I was beginning to wonder if I had taken a wrong turn. Some other riders caught up to me so I figured I was going the right way. A reminder sign of where you are would be nice. Each intersection should have a sign or an arrow telling you that you go here. There was one Y intersection that you were supposed to go to the left but the sign was on the median and could only be seen AFTER you went to the left. I just happened to go in the right direction because a ride marshall was repositioning the sign when I came upon it. On the very busy roads, like the one we had to take as a detour, there should be signs warning motorists of cyclists on the road. I have seen these at other rallies. There really should be traffic control when you are going back in and have to cross Jefferson. It was very dangerous. Some of the officers need to learn how to actually direct traffic. At one intersection I was flagged to continue through and the vehicles were stopped. Before I even reached the intersection, he waved the vehicles on my left to continue. I was like what the heck is going on? I had to stop suddenly. I guess he forgot I was still there. And finally the ugly. Shame on you riders who think you own the road. This was a rally; I agree. There was some traffic control; I agree. This does not give you carte blanche to blow right through lights and stop signs. Are you crazy or just smoking crack??!!! Do you ride like this ALL THE TIME?!! Just because this is a rally, you do not have the right of way for the entire ride. I don't know about the rest of you, but my life is very important to me and I would like to arrive at the finish with all body parts intact. I am saddened by these actions as they give the cycling community a bad name. We all have to share the road, which means that we all have to follow the traffic laws. The last thing I want to see is you in front of me blowing through an intersection without even looking and getting creamed by a car. And I always hear, "well they have a stop sign so they will stop." Really? Why would you think that - because YOU just ran right through it. With that being said, I like this rally overall and I think it could use some improvement. With improvement, it can be a really great rally. This is what I would like to see. And I would even consider doing it again next year.

Registration: "F-minus". The only ride where the pre-registration took twice as long to get thru than on-site registration. I did not pre-register and I feel sorry for those who did. 2 tables may be enough when the participation in this ride drops below 200. Maybe next year?
Start: "D". Try blocking traffic. The guy blocking half the road with his truck did not help here. Good thing there was not 1,000 riders trying to get thru.
Route: "A-Plus". I like this route. It's pretty, some challenging climbs, fast descents and good roads. 
Signage: "C". Good idea, bad execution. How hard is this guys. Let's make something I don't have to pick out from yard sale signs. How about something like "RHCP 60 ->" in big bold letters and numbers with an arrow I can see sometime before I have to turn. Give up on the road arrows. 
Cops: "C". They would have gotten a "B" if it was not for the dork that was too lazy to get out of the car at a 4 way stop and direct traffic. Instead he thought he'd play with his little radio and yell at us for not making complete stops at the stop sign. 
Rest Stops: "C". Room for improvement. Except for the Army guys, they did good, they get an "A".
Finish: "A". I don't know what it is about beans chips after a ride, but it was good. 
Overall: "C". You guys need to do A LOT better to keep this ride afloat. For $35 you have to get it right.

WORST RIDE OF THE YEAR. I still can figure out what I paid $35.00 for. This is the most expensive ride of the year and for what? Only 3 sizes in shirts. After one washing is cold water it shrank almost 2 sizes. No water at the main rest stop at the 40 -62 mile turn off. After a line of about 75 yards. Brand new fresh chip seal for about 15 miles, just like 2004. Every road was rough. The start or first 1 mile of the ride the road was so rough that my water bottle rattled up and out of its cage an onto the ground nearly causing other riders to hit it and possible crash. Luckily that did not happen as I raced back to pick it up. 25% of shoulders had glass and trash, cut both of my brand new s-works tires that I just paid $100.00 for. How hard is it to clean the roads? Police support very weak at certain intersections. The wind was very tough, this is the only thing that wasn't their fault. Avoid this ride at all costs, for your pocket book and your safety. 

I don't often feel inclined to comment about any of the bike rallies I attend, but on this one I feel I need to. This one was by far the absolute worst. The beginning of the ride was fine, but after turning around to finish the 20K, I (along with the others with me) faced some dangerous challenges that should NEVER happen in one of these bike rides.
For the entire ride back, there was NO supervision at the lights and crossovers, which made for a very hazardous (if not deadly) situation. All along Davis, there was no support to keep drivers from running up on our behind, forcing us onto the shoulder (which by the way was covered in glass). And lastly, the ride was very POORLY marked. Whatever changes you made to correct this apparently went to the wayside. And as an added bonus, I was "cat-called" by some very unsavory men (who appeared to be coming out of a bar?!?), and at one point was afraid they were going to come after me. I looked around for any kind of patrol, rider or SAG unit, but there was nothing.
For the $30 we paid as an entry fee, you would expect more. I DO EXPECT MORE, especially when all the other rallies provide plenty of safety precautions.
Understandably, it's for a good cause (but seriously...$30???). In the end though, it's not worth endangering your life. STAY AWAY FROM THIS RIDE IN 2006!

August 21, 2004

OK, this is my 3rd year on this ride, last year got better but this year took a big step back. I know every one says this is soooo dangerous, suck it up people you are riding on the road in TX!!! I only have beef with the bad directions on this course, signs were for sh#* I was lucky I knew the area and knew how and where to re-connect with the route, I ended up with 70 miles on this 60 route. And whats with the lack of Gatorade at the rest stops?? If they are going to change organizers every year this rid is doomed to always be a failure!! I like this ride but they need help. Olson/ team bennigens

This was my first time to participate in this ride. I loved the route. Very scenic as adverstised, good roads, some good climbs and some good descents. The total amount of climbing was significantly less than I was expecting after reading last year's reviews. My computer registered 1525 feet of climbing. There were only two difficult hills. The first one was at 11 miles and was about 7.5% grade and 0.3 miles long. The second climb was at the end of the ride and was about 4.5% grade and about 1.2 miles long to the finish. Overall, I don't think this ride is as difficult as the Goatneck, Peach Pedal, Tour De Pants or Muenster. I had a hard time finding the ride but not because of bad directions but because I didn't see street signs on many of the streets. I finally figured out there was ride marshall on Jefferson but he didn't have a sign that I saw and I didn't realize he was out there to point the way until after I passed him looking for the correct street. My only complaint about the ride is very poor route markings (worst road markings of all the rides so far this year and I have been on almost all the rides). There was no advance warning of turns and as a result the group I was in passed many of the turns and then had to turn around to get back on course. There were some intersections where I didn't see any signs at all. If the organizers will improve this for next year I won't have any complaints. I didn't stop at any rest stops (I rode the 62 mile route) so I can't rate those.

Ahh, the oft-maligned Chili Pepper. I'm not really much of a rally-complainer. Chip seal? I took it like a man in Rockwall last weekend. Hills? Bring 'em on. However, this year's CP makes me wonder if I'll bother next year. The pros: challenging climbs, a heck of a workout. Nice weather this year (made up for the blazing heat & high humidity that sent so many to last year's aid stations to be doused with ice water). And the new route was indeed scenic in many parts, with some nice, quiet shady roads on the 62 (though we missed--terribly, sadly missed!-- the big, bad downhill from last year). But... after years of organizing rides, have they not learned the importance of a well-stocked rest stop? (They do know the importance of claiming that on their website.) We skipped the first, and there was no Gatorade at the second... we tried the third and struck out as well. Folks, Texas in August sort of demands you watch your electrolytes. The first stop that actually had Gatorade had only oranges. OK, but not really much of a carb boost, and they can't compete with the potassium in a banana. We gave up on rest stops after that, feeling sorry for those who made this their first (and maybe last) rally. After the first couple miles, there was zero traffic control; not a huge issue, but one gets used to seeing lots of control at most other rallies. One intersection had a lane coned off, with a car parked in said lane, containing two emergency-vested men, enjoying the AC with the windows up. "Looked" safe to blow through, but cars were whizzing by at high speed. And the (in)famous chili signage! THREE times my group yelled at riders who'd missed a (tiny) sign. (And what's with that "Bikes keep right" sign? There were several possible right turns after it, but none of them had arrows... it was like a reality show, "can we find the correct turn"?) That sign alone was quite a topic at the finish line, as was the signage in general. And, finally, I don't expect lunch after a rally... Paris and Rockwall do it just fine though. When we reached the food line, there was a (cold) pan of rice, and another pan with 1/2" of grease. We asked what the grease was for... a server actually dipped her spoon in it, found three or four crumbs of ground beef, and dropped them on our plate (with a large pool of... grease!!!). Mmmm, mmm, good. Rally organizers should keep in mind that after the 20 & 40 milers eat all the food, the HUNGRY 60 milers are gonna arrive. Maybe they should put the lunch budget into the rest stops next year. Nonetheless, I rode with good friends and enjoyed the day; but in hindsight, might have preferred one of the many club rides available this morning.

This annual ride has received so many negative reviews---I almost didn't ride it. But as the saying goes; "Don't believe everything you read" !  Cool temperatures brought out a large number of riders for the 2004 Red Hot Chili Pepper and most of them left happy. The organizers were friendly and appreciate the loyal support they receive from the local cycling community. The ride course was a lot of fun, but not completely free of problems.  All of the turns were marked---but some of the signs were turned around or on the wrong side of the road---allegedly some local misguided youth thought this was a funny thing to do. There were a lot of riders who missed turns and went off course or ended up on the wrong course. But alas; we have all heard the same stories from the past. The smartest thing I did to prepare for this ride was to print the route map off from the ride website. The  way I look at it is you need to be prepared when you do any type of ride. We stayed on course for the full 60 miles and had a great time on some smooth twisty back country roads. There was a short segment on the access road for highway 67 and more confusing turns---but the intrepid riders enjoyed a series of great downhill runs and a smooth fast loop around Joe Poole Lake. The rest stops were well placed, but were running low on power ade at mile 45; when we finally took a break. Most of the route had very low traffic; but the last 2 mile leg back to the Calumet Center was on a very busy street with no traffic control. Well; they had traffic control--but the police officers were sitting in their cars instead of directing traffic. The last big hills to the finish were long---but then real riders enjoy hills. After the ride we enjoyed a mexican meal at the center and chatted with lost friends who had made wrong turns. The pool was open for riders--although I didn't see anyone taking advantage of it And the requisite massage tables were out under a tent with out a line. Would I ride it again ? ABSOLUTELY.
This ride with its proximity to Dallas and with its great course, it  could easily become one of North Texas better rallies. They just need to iron out a few kinks ( AND PAINT COLOR ARROWS ON THE PAVEMENT TO MARK THE COURSE ). They had a lot of course volunteers---Maybe they should consider posting some at the major course splits. Anyway---this group deserves our future support. I will see you there next year. And--oh yeah---they had awesome white T-Shirts with very well designed chili pepper style graphics. 

This is ride was like a scavenger hunt drawn up by frat boys from Animal House. First you have to find this place in the dark without the benefit of an actual street sign or even a handmade brightly colored poster sign with  a smiley face saying turn here. Then at registration you are handed a very confusing black and white map I swear was drawn up by someone with a bad hang over. No concise map with pretty little lines in yellow, blue, green to mark all the different routes. (no that would be too easy) The best part is trying to figure out the route once you are on the course. Lucky for me; a person who is not gifted with a build in compass (Major  requirements for this ride) I had people to ride with who had a pretty good sense of direction which comes in handy when the route is not properly mark.
If I had a bad day and ended up alone, I would still be out there right now! The positive part about the ride was the hills especially the one were I top 42 mile per hour and the fact that they had plenty of medium T-shirts with a cool logo. I believe this rally could have a lot of potential if these folks could  manage to get their act together, and fire the goof who was in charge of marking the course!

This was my first time to participate in this ride and my second 100k ever. Overall I enjoyed it with the only major complaint being the lack of painted directional markings and non-marked road hazards. Some of the signs were missing causing me on one occasion to go out of route about 3 miles. Next year I will bring my map with me! Two nice size hills at the beginning and end were a nice challenge. I feel like I did not get to experience the "Real" Chile Pepper Ride because the weather was very nice and cool. I plan on riding it again! - Kevin

Every single person I know who attended this rally took a wrong turn at least once, including myself. My husband, with 2 others off the front, missed the 40-60 split signs, which most people did, and only ended up doing 40 miles. Somebody in my group happened to notice the TINY SIGN on the left hand side of the road, pointing the 60 milers to the left. That's when I noticed they had scribbled in ball point pen 40 miles under the right turn arrow as some after-thought! Totally
inexcusable. All other rallies attended would know to have a person there, directing riders. From there it was a conversation about who took what wrong turn. My group missed a turn, but quickly realized it and turned back. My husband,  who's done this rally every year has said that's it, no more chances. My cycling club has
abandoned this rally after the first couple of years. I am really saddened by this because I kept pulling for this rally! I emailed them directly last year saying FIX THE SIGN PROBLEM and look what happened. When it comes to choosing what 10 rallies we'll do every season I'm sorry to say this one won't make the cut for next year.

I applaud the organizers of this year ride for changing the 62 mile route, it was much better than the previous couple of years. Unfortunately having a new route and a lack of proper signage led to many riders going off course. It made for an exercise in orienteering. There are several critical points where having a volunteer giving instructions would have made the ride much better. The 40/60 split in Cedar Hill is one, the turn over Hwy 67 (which several groups missed), then the next unmarked turn onto W Parkerville Rd were others. This ride made me appreciate having a small gps unit with the route preprogrammed into it. I don't know if it was because of all the rains that Dallas has had this summer, but the roads were much cleaner than last year. Intersection control was only around the start/finish, about the same as years past.

Great ride great support, all the goodies at the rest stops/ lots of traffic support, will be back next year Olson/ team bennigens

2004 was my first time on the Chili Pepper Ride. My only complaint is the issue of the signs, specially where major splits occur... In fact, I missed the 63 mile split, and realized too late that I was on the 40 mile course... that was a bit disappointing for me. It was not until I reviewed the map at the end that I realized where and how I came to be on the wrong route. Otherwise, city roads are city roads, the weather was nice, scenery was good, the traffic - well, it was city traffic, support and rest stops were there, and I had no trouble finding parking. The T-Shirt looks great, and the Taco lunch afterwards was a pleasant surprise. For me, except for the sign issue, it was better than the previous year's reviews I had read on this page. I will be back next year.

Of the 30+ rides I have done this year in three different states, this is the only one I will never do again. Dangerous route, nonexistent to poor signage, almost everyone got lost at least once (I rode 82 miles to complete the 62 mile route and once I was in a group of 20+ lost riders who were all trying to find their way back on the route), an unreadable map that was missing entirely from many packets, nothing but water at at least one rest stop, and the "The Free Lunch" from 11 to 2 ran out of food at 12N while many riders were still trying to find their way home.

August 16, 2003

The Red Hot Chili Pepper Bike Rally extends a welcome invitation to all cycling enthusiasts. We listened carefully to last years participants and have been working diligently to make this years ride better than ever!
This years course promises to be as challenging as years past but we expect the experience will be a rewarding one. We'll be unveiling a new route for the 60 mile riders that takes you through scenic Cedar Hill.
We're thankful for those of you have been so supportive in the past and we hope you'll join us this year to continue the wonderful tradition that's been started.
See you in August!
Red Hot Chili Pepper Bike Rally Planning Committee

Ok...so I rode the Chili Pepper twice before and hated it. But based upon their allegations of "Change" and "safety" I decided, what the heck, to give them one more chance. The people are sweet and friendly.. but.... this dog of a ride needs to be dragged out to a field and shot in the back of it's head. It needs to be put to rest forever. Please drive a stake through it's heart as well. No more! The monster must not rise yet again! First.. I have been riding such rides for 45 years, all over the world. I'm no whiner.
So...the start: The same wacko start all crunched up in front of the Community Center door with tandems intermixed with two wheelers and recumbent. A sharp right and then left and we are soon, within a half mile on a street from hell. craters, cracks, holes just like a bombing range. Bikes slammed into these with devastating results. What with the crowd it was almost impossible to miss them. I was up front but I can only imagine the carnage going on behind me. I only heard the screams and moans. The road opened up and for a while there was good riding...I started to feel relaxed. Many busy intersections had cops waving us through. Then two busy intersections with a cop at each...sitting in his air conditioned car...doing...absolutely nothing for us! We fearfully sought to make frantic left turns against fast moving oncoming traffic on a "Yield with green" sign. (Ever try that?) Then there were intersections with no cops, no signs, no monitors. How many missing signs? I stopped counting at twelve. So called "yellow shirted "Volunteers at some intersections ( boys and girls) were often too busy talking and flirting with each other to help riders. I asked one monitor "which way". He smiled and waved. I asked again...more smiling and waving. I finally asked in Spanish...I got an answer...neat. What if you didn't speak Spanish? Then came terrible roads followed by good roads, then terrible roads. Then a junction from hell where the sign said "43 mile turn right and 62 mile straight ahead." Fine...but after a large loop I found myself at the same junction, riding on automatic like we all do...trusting the signs...and almost went straight ahead...like a lot of other riders actually did.. Finally it dawned on me it just couldn't be...I turned right. How many souls were doomed to turn on the sun's spit on this double loop? who knows. Fierce hill climbs, serious downhill's at 50 mph + and more unsigned, unmonitored turns. Dozens turned right at Jefferson...no police presence...I made it to Davis and proceeded up a death defying final hill with high speed cars and trucks passing me and no shoulders most of the time. Dozens of heat cases were strung out along the climb. Rest stops too far apart.. some hidden from view and hard to find. I ran out of water for my camel back at 53 miles. When I left the med tent personnel were racking up the heat cases. A conscientious group, but obviously confused as to the scope of what was happening with the desperate riders. On my way home I rescued one exhausted rider lost, cramped, fire ant bit and dehydrated on Jefferson. I put him and his bike in my Tahoe and took him to the med station. Trying to leave again I found another on Jefferson...down and waiving for help begging for water. I took him back up the hill. Then I had to leave for good, driving past other lost souls...I was just to tired to help anymore. And these are the good points! Conclusion...I would have to be insane to ride this event again. They simply are not sophisticated enough to run this type of ride. If you have a death wish and are feeling suicidal.. this is your ride. Sorry...but sweet and friendly people, however well meaning can not make up for this ride's serious safety hazards.  Norm Weatherby

Well, it appears from reading 2002 rider comments (2003 is my first time for this course) that no real significant improvement has been made on the ride I just completed this afternoon (66 miles?).
The bad: Traffic control and rider safety apparently are still a huge issue as I see them. Confusion as to yielding or stopping at intersections makes you feel like you are truly making a life or death decision. There was a true lack of any consistency in quality of the operation of the rest stops and including the lack of Gatorade or ice or even medical personnel as I was told by phone would be in place. The signage was horrible, or maybe I should say sometimes nonexistent. The route maps in my opinion were equally bad and difficult to read. Last complaint is the very poor and incomplete verbiage that was supposed to describe the route and provide information on the website. There was not a single line of text that described how challenging this course might be for some riders, this could have really saved a lot of anguish for the unprepared or unsuspecting rider.
The Good: A good cause and friendly and very well-intentioned people -BUT definitely not planners.

Well, this was my first year to ride the event, so I had no basis for comparison to previous years other than the reviews. I rode the 40 mile route. I got a late start (10 minutes after everyone else had left) so I rode out trying to figure out which way to turn when leaving the community center. I figured it out quickly enough and started trying to catch up. Having grown up in Oak Cliff, I knew to expect the hills, but the route was actually easier than I expected (The hills at the Peach Pedal Bicycle Ride in Weatherford were more difficult IMHO). The fast downhills provided a good rush ("Brakes? We don't need no stinkin' brakes!"). I also enjoyed the ride over the dam at Joe Pool lake--a nice elevated view of the countryside. I was pleased with the rest stops--plenty of water, Gatorade, cookies, fruit, and friendly volunteers everywhere I stopped. I agree with the previous comments--the map they handed out with the registration packet was terrible. However, I had printed the color map posted on the web site for the ride and it was quite nice. There were signs missing at two key places--the turnoff for the 60 mile route near Joe Pool lake (they had a "corner worker" but he was maybe 50 yards down the side road from the corner), and at the crossover of Jefferson. The only major problem I had with the event was registration--the people were supposed to be at Plano Cycling & Fitness Wednesday-Friday, but I drove down on Wednesday and they were nowhere in site, so I had to repeat the trip on the following day. Despite this snafu, I'll do the event again next year, because the cause seems worthy and it's a good challenging route. And any bike ride that ends in an air-conditioned place with a free lunch is okay by me!

I take strong exception to the negative comments regarding this ride. - The ride was actually a very good ride. Other than some glitches at the start, the ride was very good. For the most part the roads were good with light traffic. Volunteers were stationed at most of the intersections pointing the right directions. The Calumet Center volunteers sincerely tried to make this an enjoyable ride. The route was very challenging with at least three big hills to climb. The hill going down from the cedar hill radio towers to Joe Pool Lake was fantastic- well worth the price of admission; I clocked at 44.3mph and that was with heavy braking - I'm sure others hit 50mph. I talk with several other riders after the ride and they all said the ride was much improved from prior years, especially the improved traffic control, i.e. more police officers at intersections. The ride organizers are affiliated with a small community center in oak cliff, Those complaining should not expect the organization of the mesquite rodeo ride. I will be back next year for sure.

I was going to ride ,but when they did not show up twice at the time and location listed on their website for pre-registration I knew it was a bad omen. I bought some bike gear from Plano Cycle with the money and went home.

While the course is a nice, challenging one with some great lake views, traffic control stinks. After years of running race events, this was my first bicycle rally. I hope others are safer than this one. I couldn't believe the number of uncontrolled intersections. In some cases, there were no volunteers or police at major intersections. At others, the police were stationed comfortably inside their patrol car, enjoying the air conditioning, with no intention of getting out and actually doing anything about traffic control. The start was a joke, with all the potholes, and the finish is a death wish...climbing up a very long hill on Jefferson with no protection against the traffic coming up from behind in the same lane as the bicycles. And whose idea was it to put the first/last rest stop so far off the course that you couldn't actually see it? The Mexican meal afterwards was a nice touch, and the volunteers were all very cheerful. But safety should be the FIRST priority.

This ride is definitely not for beginners. If you cannot navigate a city intersection without assistance, this is not the ride for you. If you expect to be able to blow through all the stop signs and traffic lights, find another ride. It should also be pointed out that this ride runs through a variety of streets and some of them are not in the best of shape. Better be able to keep your eyes open for hazards.
For those who are willing to accept the challenge, the Red Hot Chili Pepper ride is a lot of fun. This was my second year and I had no problems with signage or rest stops. All the rest stops had plenty of supplies even though I was much closer to the back of the ride than the front. The hills were fantastic and really makes the ride.
A couple suggestions for next year: Add a rest stop about half way around the second 60 mile loop. It gets pretty hot by the time riders get there and a rest stop would be well received. Also, provide ice water and Gatorade at the registration so we can fill up before the start of the ride.

   I rode the pepper this year and while it wasn't the stellar experience  one might have in Paris or Italy (Texas, that is) I found it enjoyable.   Yes, some cops did stay in their cars, at SOME intersections and later  in the day... but with their cars parked perpendicular to traffic flow,  blocking traffic to one lane, and lights flashing, those officers were  able to direct traffic with hand motions--seemed to work fine. But my  experience was primarily that of cops on foot, waving me through. I  never felt threatened or in danger. Signage seemed fine to me, and I too  was confused at the 60/40 turn... however, the intersection was clearly  marked. Problem was, the road just didn't "look" like a road... with the  fencing in close proximity, it looked like a private driveway. But it  WAS marked and was the road. Highlights: lake views, the big downhill (I  chickened out and started braking at 37mph... others in my group pushed  50...) and the rest stops were adequate with no shortages. Some  consider the challenging hills a low point, especially that last  hill-from-hell... others love the challenge. I feel the Chili Pepper is  a case where some detailed course info on the web site would help... my  group knew to "save something" for the end, but I imagine the proximity  to Dallas may attract a lot of less experienced riders. My group all  agreed we'd be back next year; I'd hate to lose a rally that seems to be  evolving in a positive direction. We're blessed in Texas with a "rally  every weekend" in the summer... maybe directing positive suggestions  rather than complaints to the organizers can keep this on the list!

High speed traffic right on your shoulder on Davis road was out right hazardous. Signage...terrible. Rest stops...where? Intersections...some had guards some did not. period. Difficult to see how people are not killed regularly on this ride. My first and last time at this ride. Outright dangerous.

I rode the Red Hot Chili Pepper ride in Dallas this year for the first time. Afterwards, I, too, had some suggestions for making the ride better. The volunteer with whom I spoke said that the route will be changed in 2004 to eliminate some of the problems. I suggested more chalk arrows on the pavement to help riders, and more paper signs if possible. I rode the 100K with its killer hill near the end. After riding approximately 52 miles, the last thing I needed was a killer hill! At the end, I was confused as to how to get back to the start---all signs disappeared from the Jefferson and Main Street routes. I rode up Jefferson, but afterwards found that I should have ridden up Main St. I will be back next year, if nothing else than to see how it has changed. The people are just too earnest and the cause too needy not to try and help them out.

First, there is no excuse for any stop to be waiting for ICE. Secondly, the sighs mixed in with all the housing signs were never seen. I missed so many that when I finished my computer said 72 miles. No wonder I was cooked. Please fix, we need this ride the week before HHH, but so far I agree with everyone else.

I just can't believe the bashing this ride gets every year -- it's a good ride put on by well meaning people, for a good cause, in a very challenging location (logistically and topologically). Maybe Bikin' Mike can hire on to help them work out the kinks. We rode the 100K course and I have to say that the second loop is a killer, especially for a tandem team that decide to "storm the hills" to that point. We DNF'd due to a cramp at the last rest stop. When I cramped initially, there was a support van on us in minutes, they gave me replacement fluids and made sure we were ok to go on. When we arrived at the rest stop, they were already expecting us. This ride is not for racers who expect a very tightly controlled course and the 40 - 60 mile routes are challenging to difficult. When it gets hot -- you have the ultimate pre hh100 ride.

A very good point, it is very, very hard to put on a ride in a big town like Dallas.  John...

We'd like to take this time to thank all the cyclists who participated in the Red Hot Chili Pepper Bike Rally. As you are aware this event serves as a major fundraiser for the Calumet Community Center and the many children, teenagers, and senior citizens it serves each year.
We recognize we're not professional event planners but we do feel a deep commitment and gratitude to all the cyclists who participate each year and we take any comments, suggestions, and reviews received very seriously. We had a large number of participants complete surveys the day of the event and as a result we've been able to compile a list of things that will make next years event even better!
Overall, the comments we received were very positive and recognized the improvements made in comparison to prior years. We recognize, however, that this is a continuous process and we'll keep working on making improvements in the following areas:
   -traffic control
   -route conditions and rest stops
   -starting/finishing area
   -advertising
   -signage
   -website
Thanks again to everyone for your patience and comments/suggestions. We hope to see you next year!
Sincerely,
Red Hot Chili Pepper Bike Rally Planning Committee