"The Monster" represents a combination of two bike
rides, the Iowa Hill loop and the Rubicon River loop, both starting in
Bowman. Each ride separately is difficult. In a demented moment
it occurred to me that combining both loops into a single ride might work,
and thus "The Monster" was born.
Sierra Nevada foothills and mountains in remote, historic, gold rush country.
Both rides treat you to lovely, undeveloped, unspoiled forest wilderness.
Bowman Park-N-Ride.
Drive east from Sacramento on I-80 through Auburn.
Take the Bowman exit just east of Auburn. Turn right at the
off-ramp stop sign, immediately turn left at the Lincoln Way stop sign,
and turn left into the Park-N-Ride lot.
This ride represents the traditional Iowa Hill loop. While difficult, this route is not insane and is appropriate for riders capable of steep climbing.
Climbing: 7,000 feet. The Iowa Hill climb includes a section averaging 12.5% grade over 1.8 miles.
Difficulty: Severe.
Maximum Elevation: 4,505 feet.
Climbing: 15,000 feet.
Difficulty: Extreme ("Beyond").
Maximum elevation: 4,700 feet (Eleven Pines Road).
Sections of this ride are snowbound in the winter. Check road conditions.
The 135 mile "Monster" most emphatically should be attempted only by very strong riders.
In my opinion, the 135 mile "Monster" is harder than the Markleeville Death Ride.
The amount of climbing is similar.
"The Monster" has three sections which are steeper than any portion of the "Death Ride."
"The Monster" is six miles longer.
"The Monster" is unsupported. There is a 61 mile section without any access to food or water.
Any rider attempting the 135 mile "Monster" should be:
fully capable of completing all five passes of the Markleeville "Death Ride."
experienced in managing food and fluid intake in an environment of great exertion, high temperature, and no support.
confident of the reliability of his/her bicycle.
The course passes through extremely remote areas with little or no traffic and without cell phone access.
No rider should attempt the 135 mile "Monster" alone.
Inform a non-rider of your course.
Riders should carry tools and supplies for repairing common bike dysfunctions.
Riders should be confident of completing the 135 mile "Monster" before nightfall.
Start early (e.g., 5:30 - 6:00 AM).
Don't waste time on the course.
Carry a taillight and a lightweight headlight, in case you get delayed. The section of Highway 49 between Cool and the American River, which comes at the end of the ride, always is hazardous and would be unacceptably dangerous after sunset without lighting.
