PBP Drop Bag Strategies

Here are thoughts about bag drops and PBP.

Most people have a bag drop at Loudeac on PBP.  This control works very nicely because it’s separates the event into thirds.  Meaning you get there about every 400 km. 

There is also an option to have a bag at the 200 km mark, which puts you back there after 1000 km on PBP. Having 2 bag drops could be useful, I have never used this bag drop so can not speak much about it.  If you think you need it, then use it.

For you new people intending to do PBP, here is what I would do for the upcoming 600 brevet.  Pack 2 full changes of clothes plus extras if the weather is bad.  The first time through Rushford do your first change of clothes.  Do the loop to Houston and LaCresent, back to Rushford and then do your second change of clothes.  This will very closely mirror a good plan for PBP and simulate how you would pass through the bag drop there.  It will also give you an idea if this plan works for you and ample time to make adjustments before going to Paris.

Extra things for your drop bag would be long sleeve jersey, tights, rain jacket. 

Extra food if you use any of the specialized performance drinks or liquid food. 

Pack a tooth brush and a small tube of toothpaste, it really feels good to remove the fuzz from your teeth. 

Gloves!!!  Pack 3 pair if you have them.  They get really stinky and gross after spilling drinks on them and

wiping sweat all day. 

Have extra chamois cream or whatever you use.

Maybe extra batteries, probably not needed on the 600, but when you do more night riding at PBP a necessity.

Martin Fahje