What to Bring?
Besides yourself and your mountain bike
you need to bring:-
A crash helmet - occasionally people have a spill. Cycling
gloves are also helpful.
Water - though there will be a drinks stop halfway round it
will be very hot so you need at least 2 litres of water or electrolyte.
A spare inner tube, a puncture repair kit and a working pump.
If you get a puncture during the ride other riders will help you, but you
need to bring along your own materials.
The Rides
Bike Hash events are usually weekend
affairs set at an inexpensive resort or hotel (B1,000-B1,500 per night)
100-200km from Bangkok. Most people drive to the ride site on Saturday
morning, though some like to make it a more leisurely weekend by driving
there on Friday. The Sunday ride usually finishes about lunch time, allowing
for a leaisurely afternoon drive back to the pollution of Bangkok. The
website will tell you how to book the accomodation.
The Saturday ride is usually between 30km
and 50km and takes 4 to 5 hours, depending on the terrain. Some hares lay trails that are flat and
easy while others like more technical sections. The Saturday ride usually
isn't suitable for most children. Roll-off time is 1 or 1.30pm, but you need
to be there an hour earlier to get your bike ready and to pay Hash Cash.
Check the web for the details.
About half way round there will be a
drinks stop at a shop where you can re-stock with water and soft drinks.
Bring some small change with you as country shops often can't change large
notes. At the end of the ride there will be
water, soft drinks, beer and make-your-own ham or cheese sandwiches. These
are included in the ride fee.
The Sunday 'hangover' ride is usually
between 20km and 25km. It is not technical, so is suitable for the whole
family. Once again, at the end of the ride there are drinks and snacks
available.
What to do?
Follow the shredded PAPER TRAIL
Paper is always on the left. If it's on the right, maybe the wind blew it or
you're
going the wrong way (go back and check)
If there is no paper for 100m, you are off trail, go back to the last seen
paper
When "on paper", call the trail : blow your whistle or shout "On On"
There will be 1 or 2 water-stops, possibly with short-cut options
X - Check – X
This is a cross ( X ) with paper and wood sticks
You need to go up to 500m in any direction (maybe back) to find the trail
again
First hasher to find the paper: call the trail or go back to the check
First hasher who reached the check, must break the check and drop new paper
Safety & Riding
When passing other riders, give them space & announce "On your left / right"
If you cannot ride the trail, stop or walk on the side & let other riders
pass
Technical descents: ensure adequate space between riders so they can see the
trail.
Wait at the top if necessary and don't overtake
Beware of electric fences: usually a single wire with plastic bags tied to
it
Be respectful of different riders' level of ability. Assist riders in need
of help
Essential Equipment
Helmet
Pump, spare inner tube, tyre levers & bike tool
If you borrow from anyone, make sure you return or replace
Mobile phone with Hare's phone number
Resort name card + sufficient money to charter a pick-up truck if you need
to
Villagers & Environment
Be civilized, say "sawatdee" to villagers
Respect villagers' property and houses
In cultivated fields and crop areas ride without causing damage or walk
Do not litter the or abuse the trail !!
Animals
Dogs: stay cool, slow down
Cows and buffalos: stay cool, slow down or stop. DO NOT WHISTLE !
Maintenance
The Bangkok bike shop LPR
(phone 0 2427 1537, 08 1459 4206 or 08 1205 4206) come to each Hash,
where they sell accessories and carry out repairs and adjustments.
Though they don't quote a price or ask for money for repairs, if they fix or adjust your bike
please give
them some money for their service. If you need more extensive repairs
they can take your bike after the rides and return it to you at the next
Hash (very covenient!).
