Route Cue Sheet: Downeast 1000k Cue Sheet – 2015 (revised 07-27-2015)
The physical copy of the final cue sheet will be distributed at the start. No additional significant changes to the route are anticipated. Though extreme weather or unexpected construction might require route modification within days of the event.
Online Map / GPS Link (subject to change):
Full route: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/9491247
Day 1: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/8172386
Day 2: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/8173105
Day 3: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/8424500
Northern New England Riding Primer:
Northern New England features some of the nicest riding in the US but road conditions are unlike other parts of the country. Generally August features the nicest weather of the year with daytime highs in the 70-80s but hot (mid-90s) days are not uncommon, nor are unseasonably cool days. Nighttime lows are generally in the 60s but lower temps are possible. Weather will change rapidly — expect periods of rain during the event even if nice weather is forecast.
This is a hilly route. Riders should expect constant rollers (grades of 5-10%) with some short sections of steep grades (15-20%+). Roads used use will be a mix of minor highways with a ridable, small shoulders and many section of narrow backroads. Potholes and broken pavement is common so be prepared for a range of surfaces. Vermont is still recovering from Hurricane Irene and a extremely cold and snowy winter in 2015 — the roads will reflect this. All roads are curvy and riders should be alert for limited sight lines.
Not all roads will have clear signage. Navigating with the cue sheet is not difficult provided riders pay attention to the distances. A GPS is helpful but not required. Most roads will be low to very low traffic inland but expect traffic near the coast.