Gran Fondo Ephrata

The infamous Gran Fondo Ephrata has become a Pacific Northwest “spring classic” with 80 miles of primitive central WA back roads, 5000′ of climbing, and of course unpredictable spring weather. Come prepared to be unprepared.

Disclaimer: This is a HARD ride and is intended for experienced cyclists only.

GFE 50 | GFE Medio

Half the calories, all of the flavor! The full Overen road is a treat, and the chill roll out leading up is nice as well. But don’t be fooled, this is not a lame watered down version, lots of gravel (20 miles) and a fair amount of climbing (2700′) will hit the mark. There will be an aid station mid way and a hot meal waiting at the finish.

GFE 80

Back to the classic course you all know and love (conditions permitting). The course is designed to give riders a glimpse of some very remote, out of the way parts of central Washington. It’s only March and 4700′ of climbing will hurt, plus approximately 30 of the 80 mile route is on gravel roads. There will be one well stocked aid station at approx the half way point as well as a few sag wagons for additional assistance.

Gear

With so many variable course conditions it is hard to say what’s right or wrong. Gravel, road, cross, or mtb, any one will work, but all will have a disadvantage at some point. Personally I’m running my Cannondale Synapse on Schwalbe G1 Speed 700×30 tires. There will be lots of climbing so gear accordingly. There will be a few sag wagons and an aid station, but it’s a good idea to be self sufficient. Weather is always something to consider this time of year. I would love to say it’s going to be sunny and 55 degrees, but it could just as easily rain or snow. Bring on the adventure baby!

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