Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  • Check in at the Luther Burbank Center, 50 Mark West Springs Rd in Santa Rosa, CA. Click here for directions. You can check in on Friday night from 5:00 - 8:30 pm or on Saturday morning from 6:00 - 10:00 am. We recommend you check on Friday night, if you’re in town, or about 30 minutes in advance of your planned start time (for your route) to help minimize traffic.

  • In addition to unlimited beer, wines and soft drinks, Sonoma County Catering Company is serving up their infamous Chipotle BBQ Chicken (tender and juicy chipotle chicken, barbequed on-site served both on-bone and off-bone with BBQ, Sweet, and Hot sauces for an explosion of flavor). Penne Pesto Primavera (a nice Al dente penne pasta tossed with vibrant local veggies and nutty pesto sauce), BBQ Beans (tender beans simmered in a smoky and savory barbecue sauce), Caesar Salad (crispy romaine lettuce, garlicky croutons, and parmesan cheese all tossed together in signature creamy Caesar dressing), Cole Slaw (freshly shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion dressed in a tangy and slightly sweet dressing), Hawaiian Rolls and Butter (soft and fluffy sweet rolls infused with a tropical pineapple flavor, served with creamy and salted butter) and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream (our chaplains serve up hand-scooped ice cream with your choice of Sundae toppings).

    We do try our best to accommodate everyone, but if none of these items interest you or if you are strictly vegan, have certain food allergies, and/or have medical dietary needs, please bring them along.

  • You betcha’ — For registered riders who aren’t into the infamous BBQ meats, we’re serving up vegetarian dishes like Penne Pesto Primavera (a nice Al dente penne pasta tossed with vibrant local veggies and nutty pesto sauce), BBQ Beans (tender beans simmered in a smoky and savory barbecue sauce), Caesar Salad (crispy romaine lettuce, garlicky croutons, and parmesan cheese all tossed together in signature creamy Caesar dressing), Cole Slaw (freshly shredded cabbage, carrots, and red onion dressed in a tangy and slightly sweet dressing), Hawaiian Rolls and Butter (soft and fluffy sweet rolls infused with a tropical pineapple flavor, served with creamy and salted butter) and Vanilla Bean Ice Cream (our chaplains serve up hand-scooped ice cream with your choice of Sundae toppings).

    Of course, our morning snack and rest stops have vegetarian foods, too. We do try our best to accommodate everyone, but if you are strictly vegan, have certain food allergies, and/or have medical dietary needs, please bring them along.

  • Back by popular demand, grill master Chef Cesar, from Sonoma County Catering Company, and his crew will be cooking up this year's after-party BBQ. With over 17 years of experience, Cesar has worked with celebrity chefs throughout the United States and is a Sonoma County favorite. In addition to his culinary skills, Chef Cesar is also actively involved in the local community. During the Tubbs fire, he and his team provided meals to both fire victims and first responders. We love Cesar for his mouthwatering cuisine as well as his community service. Bon appétit!

  • If you have non-cycling friends or family who want to join the afterparty, we’ll have BBQ tickets available for sale when you arrive for check-in, either on Friday evening, August 30, from 5:00 pm - 8:00 pm or Saturday, August 31, from 6:00 am - 11:00 am. Non-rider BBQ tickets can be purchased for a donation of $40 each (we take credit cards, checks or cash). BBQ tickets include the all-can-eat BBQ, gourmet sides, local IPA beers, wine, and ice cream.

    We kindly ask that non-riders arrive after 11:30 am on Saturday. Due to local ordinances, the music and afterparty start at noon. Extra BBQ tickets can only be purchased by registered riders on Friday night or Saturday morning.

  • We raised the price by $6 this year. For almost a decade, we have maintained consistent pricing for Tour de Fuzz. However, due to the rising costs of various aspects such as venue rental, food, insurance, permits, rest stop supplies, water tanker trucks, waste disposal, signage, and tent rentals, we had to make adjustments in order to continue hosting this important fundraiser. We take pride in offering unlimited food, drink, and hospitality, and we are confident that our event stands out in this regard. Tour de Fuzz is still one of the most modestly priced rides of its kind. Your generous support for the Chaplaincy's work is truly appreciated, and we are grateful for your contribution.

  • For 2024, we’ve added 200 additional on-site spots! So, most parking is available at the main venue at 50 Mark West Springs Road in Santa Rosa. When you arrive, event center staff will help you park in lots A, B, C and D. There is also abundant overflow parking, available at Kaiser in lot E. See the parking lot map. Please lock your vehicles, remove your valuables and take keys with you as we are not responsible for loss or damage.

  • This year, hotel space is limited. These linked facilities are within a few miles of the Tour de Fuzz and have limited availability. Try the Vintners Inn, Best Western Plus Wine Country, The Sandman, Santa Rosa, Holiday Inn Express, Windsor or the Hampton Inn, Windsor.

  • 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". Rebellious hippies of the tumultuous 60's gave us that name - a little self deprecating humor. Cops from far and wide with the law enforcement supporting public, riding together to help our great partners in our chaplaincy — those highly trained, compassionate people who help us help our communities at times of great crisis. Besides, any word with two Z’s in it has to be cool, right? We affectionately call riders, “Fuzzies.” Welcome aboard Fuzzies!

  • This is not a race! Roads are not closed for the ride and riders MUST obey the laws of the California Vehicle Code (CVC). The routes typically traverse lightly-traveled backroads, although vehicular traffic will be encountered. Riders are required to obey all traffic laws and can be expelled from the ride for violating the rules. Riders must wear a properly-fitting, CPSC-approved helmet at all times during the ride. Ride single-file as much as possible. If you must ride double at times, be vigilant for overtaking vehicles (including faster cyclists) and single up promptly Stop and pull off the road for all emergency vehicles. Please be courteous and friendly with all motorists and residents that you encounter. They are our neighbors and we want to maintain a positive view of our event. You may only visit here once or twice a year, but the residents along our route have cyclists – in large groups and small – passing their homes and farms and wineries every day. You can help us preserve friendly relations with our neighbors by being a good ambassador for cycling when you ride here. Our use of this route in the future may depend on your good cycling behavior now. Thank you for your consideration!

  • Any pedaled bike such as Road, Mountain, Gravel, Hybrid, Trike, Recumbent, Tandem or Multiple, Cruiser. Also, pedal assisted Class 1 or Class 3 E-bikes (the kind you pedal with assist). We do NOT allow Class 2 E-bikes (which do not require pedaling), mopeds, scooters or motorcycles.

  • There are several ways to make sure you stay on your route. You will get a route map and cue sheet at check-in. Also, the routes are well marked by colored arrows on the pavement. Below are individual route descriptions with maps (which you can download to any fancy bike computing device).

    50k (32 miles, click to view route); “The Enthusiast” is a Tour de Fuzz beautiful cruise through stunning vineyards into Windsor, Healdsburg and the historic Wohler bridge (you’ll definitely want to take a photo – or two) with just 1,000 feet of total climbing over a 32 mile course, this is the route for most anyone. The ride takes you back to the start via charming farming terrain for our infamous afterparty BBQ – and unlimited beer. Until you get there, there’s plenty of help along with way with gourmet rest stops and energy treats.

    100k (62 miles, click to view route); “The Roadie” – our most popular ride – is a “Fuzzie” favorite magnificent cycling route with rolling hills, the very best of Sonoma County wine roads – including the West Side miracle mile, charming bridges over the Russian River, small farming towns such as Geyserville and Jimtown, peppered with manageable climbs covering 62 miles and a total ascension of 2,800 feet. The route takes you across quiet backroads to the start for our infamous afterparty BBQ – and unlimited beer. Until you get there, you’ll be well nourished with fully stocked rest stops – and our friendly volunteer cheerleaders.

    100 miles (click to view route); “The Commando” is our infamous Tour de Fuzz epic Century ride, where riders experience the all-inclusive beauty of Sonoma County’s vineyard landscapes, Dry Creek valley, historic bridges, charming towns north towards Cloverdale and enjoy lunch at beautiful Lake Sonoma. For those who dare, we offer an optional “King/Queen of the Mountain” Rockpile Road challenge at Warm Springs Dam – with commemorative jersey prizes for age group victors. Those completing the full Commando will have navigated 100 miles, climbing over 6,800 feet – and full bragging rights. Once you get back, another celebration awaits you, our infamous BBQ afterparty with all the beer you can drink. The Commando includes two meals and rest stops along the route to keep you well fueled and going strong.

  • It is your responsibility to bring a bicycle that is in safe working condition and fits you properly. Carry a pump (compatible with your valves), a minimum of one water bottle (we suggest two), a tire patch kit, and a properly sized spare tube. Always carry ID and emergency phone numbers for yourself. It makes good sense to also list your medical insurance carrier and your blood type. Please be courteous and friendly with all motorists and residents that you encounter. They are our neighbors and we want to maintain a positive view of our event. You may only visit here once or twice a year, but the residents along our route have cyclists – in large groups and small – passing their homes and farms and wineries every day. You can help us preserve friendly relations with our neighbors by being a good ambassador for cycling when you ride here. Our use of this route in the future may depend on your good cycling behavior now. Thank you for your consideration!

  • Stretching prior to your workouts, and after your workouts can help the healing and recovery process of delayed onset muscle soreness. Check out these stretches to help your training recovery.

  • There is no mass start. We strongly recommend you start riding your individual route during the following times, to ensure that rest stops are open when you arrive. For the 100 mile, start between 6:00 - 7:30 am. For the 100 km, start between 7:30 - 9:00 am. For the 50 km, start between 9:00 - 10:00 am.

  • There is no strict time limit – this is not a race – but rest stops will close when traffic drops low and food service at the Finish will close at 5:00 pm. If you find yourself falling behind, contact the SAG number on the route slip for a courtesy pick-up ride back to the Finish.

  • We’re the cops, here to serve and protect. The TdF has some of the best support including course Marshalls, SAG vehicles (equipped with radios) and medics. All will be circling the routes to help and pick up riders who cannot continue. Each route will pass multiple Rest Stops, fully stocked with nutritious snacks and beverages, with a bike mechanic at each one. If you find yourself if need, call the support phone number on the back of your route slip.

  • We have a courtesy drop table at the venue, but not at any of the rest stops. We are not responsible for lost items and please do not leave the venue without your property.

  • Yes, Tour de Fuzz participants are treated like paparazzi. This year, we are using Captivating Sports Photos and they’ll be in several of the most picturesque locations. Generally, photos will be available for purchase within 48 hrs following the ride. Please ensure your Rider number is visible during the ride, so you can easily find your photos on our website. The Tour De Fuzz is one of the most scenic and exciting rides in the country, and the photo sales help support the Law Enforcement Chaplaincy, so we appreciate the additional support. Check the website after the event for links to view your photos.

  • Yes, who doesn’t dig the pig? There will be a limited inventory of event and event-related apparel for sale at the afterparty celebration, but we strongly recommend you order online in advance to ensure your choice items and garment sizes are available. We will open an online store for Fuzzie “merch” which you can order anytime (to memorialize your participation).

  • You betcha’ . . . we have some well trained police cadets supervisors in a cordoned-off area to put your bike during check-in and after the ride, but we cannot 100% guaranty its safety. We strongly recommend you lock it securely or, if practical, place it safely in your vehicle.

  • If you cannot make the ride you can download the Transfer Form and some other lucky person gets to ride! The transferee will pay a $15 fee to take your registration when they check in. The transferee does not have to ride the same length! So if you signed up for the 50 km, the transferee can ride the 100 km or 100 mile! If they are riding a longer ride, they must also pay the increment. For example, if you signed up for the 50K and they want to ride the 100K, they will pay an additional $10. No discounts are given for riding a smaller ride (e.g. if you signed up for the 100 km and the transferee decides to ride the 50 km).

  • The ride sells out quickly, and there are no refunds as we have to purchase insurance and begin incurring expenses for those registered. However, we understand that life circumstances happen and sometimes you just can’t make the ride. Fortunately, there are always riders seeking spots and you can sell/transfer your ride to somebody else. Check out our Facebook page about 3 weeks before event day for buyers. All sales are final, regardless of the circumstance. Thanks for your understanding.

  • 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. While there are NO REFUNDS, you can transfer your registration.

  • Correctamundo. All riders must be registered and check-in to participate. At check-in, we will confirm it’s you (please bring a photo ID) and you’ll initial the participation waiver (which you’ve already signed electronically), 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. When you check-in before the ride, our friendly staff at the registration table can help you make the change. There are no refunds for a decrease in ride length and increases will cost an additional $10 per level (e.g. to increase from 50K to 100M is two levels). You can pay this additional amount when you check-in.

  • 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 an optional Rock Pile Road King/Queen of the Mountain challenge and you should be extra fit for this route.

  • Absolutely not. We call it a “ride with Sonoma County's Finest” because it's a community 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 only about 30% of our riders are affiliated with law enforcement.

  • Yes, kids can ride! And kids-at-heart like us, too. Most riders are in their early 20’s to 70’s. Riders under age 16 MUST have a parent or guardian also riding. However, really small kids in trailer attachments are not allowed.

  • Oh, not the “C” word. Naturally, the health and safety of our guests is the highest priority. The event will observe all local, state, and federal requirements in place at the time of the event. Mask are available at the venue.