1. Why is it called Tour de Fuzz?
When we came up with that name, we were shocked that almost everyone under 30 didn't know that the "Fuzz" was (and our minds, still is) slang for "the cops". Besides the fact that you youngsters nowadays don't know your American History (the rebelling hippies of the tumultuous 60's gave us that name..who knows why-- they were all loaded at the time), you kids nowadays have such sucky names for us ..What?--- the "Po-Po", really?...what's that? Or "Five-O"?...yeah you stole that from us. "Tour de Po-Po", yeah, that's really gonna work.
So we're Tour de Fuzz: Cops from far and wide with the cop-supporting public, riding together to help our great partners in Law Enforcement Chaplaincies--those highly trained, compassionate people who help us help our communities at times of great crisis. Tour de FUZZ. That sings, baby. And besides, any word with two "z"'s in it has to be cool
2. Do I need to check-in for the ride?
Correctamundo. All riders must be registered and check-in to participate. At check-in you will receive your rider number, which enables you to ride the course and participate in all event-related activities, including our fabulous ride food, post-ride meal and entertainment, and free beer and wine. You will need to have your number with you at all times.
Yes. Before the race, go to the Registration & Check-in table to make the change with the help of our friendly staff.
4. Just how hard is the Commando 100-mile route?
If you haven't ridden a 100 mile ride before, don't let this be your first. Really. Our 100-mile Commando ride (not to be confused with naked riding) includes a Geysers challenge and you should be extra fit for this route!
A bike in tip-top shape (you won't get far without it), two water bottles and anything else you need to be comfortable on the ride. There's plenty of food before the ride, at the rest stops, and at the Finish Line post-ride BBQ & celebration party. But if you have special dietary needs, we recommend you bring your own special stash of food to keep you happy and healthy along the way.
6. What if I have mechanical difficulties?
We all have mechanical difficulties, some of them in more private spaces than the open road. But never fear! The ride has SAG (which means 'support and gear') vehicles with professional mechanics at each of the rest stops, who will help you as quickly as Monty Python's Bicycle Repairman. That said, your bicycle should be in top mechanical shape before attempting the TdF, and you should carry a pump and spare tube.
7. How will I know where to go?
At check-in you will get a lovely map that can double as a memento of your spectacular day (you may frame it if you wish; our resident graphic designer would be touched).
And, in case you haven't noticed, we take signage seriously (and, boy, do we have plenty of orange cones).
A map and good signage ensure you keep going in the right direction. Too bad the rest of life doesn't work that way.
Rain or shine, we're like the postman -- the show must go on (or something like that). We figure if we get a little rain, it just adds to the camaraderie of the ride. You may transfer your registration to someone else, free of charge. For more details, see our Refund Policy.
9. I've registered but can't come -- what's the cancellation/refund policy?
If you sign up and must cancel, up to one month before the ride (August 14th) we'll refund your fees less $10.00 per refunded rider for reprocessing fee.
After that, TdF can make no refunds on accepted entries. Entries may be transferred or sold to another person, but you must give the new person your confirmation code in order for them to receive the original registrants rider packet.
The Tour de Fuzz benefits the Law Enforcement Chaplaincy of Sonoma County -- we greatly appreciate your generosity in supporting this worthy cause!
10. I can't ride but I'd like to support the cause. How do I do that?
You can donate directly to LECS.
11. Can I fundraise instead of buying a ticket?
Answer coming soon!
12. What are the best bike rides in the North Bay?
Looking for the most awsesome rides? Check out the 2013 Cycling Calendar for suggested rides in Sonoma County and beyond.
13. Is Tour de Fuzz for police only?
No -- we call it a ride with Sonoma County's Finest because it's a commmunity thing -- and time to appreciate law enforcement and law enforcement chaplaincy working together for a healthy community. We have a lot of LEO (lingo for law enforcement officer) riders -- but most aren't.
14. Why are the police called "the fuzz" anyway?
It's a hard question to answer but we think that Cecil Adams does a fine job trying in his article at straightdope.com. By the way, our police constituents of the team don't seem to mind being called 'the fuzz' -- believe it or not, it appears that they've been called worse.
15. I'm a law enforcement officer (LEO) -- why should I ride?
Join your fellow LEOs for one heckava good time and to support a cause that you really should be supporting! Read more on our LEO page
Yes kids can ride! And kids-at-heart like us, too. Most riders are in their early 20s to 60s. Riders under age 16 MUST have a parent or guardian also riding or as a registered crew member. We charge pedalling children full price because they are fully provided all the same safety and support services -- SAG vehicle support for their bikes, mechanical support, rest stops, medical support, the after-ride "good stuff" and more. You may carry a child in a child seat for a reduced entry fee -- please contact us for registration help. Trailer attachments on bikes are not allowed.
17. Are tandem bikes allowed? Are bike trailers (for kids) allowed?
Yes, tandem bikes are welcome! Bike trailers aren't however.
18. Do you have food for vegetarians?
Absolutely. Our Finish Line Celebration has more than a BBQ -- it includes freshly made vegetarian options from local sources. Of course, our breakfast and rest stops have vegetarian foods too.
