Car Ferry

Car Ferry

I'm a fairly new rider and will be going on my first group ride in a couple of weeks. I just learned that we will be taking a gravel road (which is a first for me) to catch a ferry. Though that sounds like fun, I'm intimidated by the fact that the ferry has a "corrugated" ramp and drops us off on a gravel hill with a sharp turn at the top.

I'm not sure if my front tire will wobble on the wavy ramp, if the swaying boat will complicate things, and how I should maneuver a turn on a gravel hill. All of these things seem like red flags to me! Any suggestions (other than finding the closest bridge and meeting everyone in the next town?)

Comments for
Car Ferry

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Sep 30, 2011

slow and steady
by: robin

is your mantra on gravel.
Trail brake ( using only rear) if you want to adjust speed.
Look well ahead
Keep grip loose.

May 26, 2011

Dry Run?
by: Sandra

A practice run would be nice - even if just to take a journey down a bit of gravel before the big day. As for the ramp, I would suggest a bit of a looser grip as the tire IS going to react "funny" to you, and you cannot "manhandle" the bike. I did not say let go! But just don't squeeze her to death and try to keep that tire as tame as it is on pavement. It cannot comply.

A cool head, a calm approach, slow and steady, clutch at the ready, using foot brake lightly over hand brake. And if you really freeze up, a friend could always help you. If you think about falling and are looking down, you will probably GO down. Keep your eyes and chin up, seeing where you want to be...on the ferry...and your bike will take you there.

Just breathe!!

May 26, 2011

You can do it!
by: Sassy2731

All I can tell you is that it doesn't sound like you will be alone on this ride and I'm sure that if those that planned the ride didn't think it was a safe ride for everyone then they wouldn't have planned it to start with. I can tell you that I have ridden one a gravel road for a few miles when I was first learning and it is scary, but I did make it and you will also. Just try to remember to not hit your front brake in the gravel because that will make the bike slide. Just go slow and easy and you will be fine. I have road onto and off of car ferries also with no problems. Like I said just take your time and don't get in a rush. I still get uneasy in these situations so don't feel bad or back out of the ride. Go and have fun.

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