PKR 2024 routes are marked
Have you registered??
PKR update: We’re 17 days out and we HAVE MARKED ROUTES!
I woke up at the butt-crack of dawn this weekend to spray paint arrows along the three separate routes.
There are no giant changes to the routes from last year. If you’re doing the John Holmes, there is a minor change deep in Mohican country where we bypass private property in favor of a public, gravel road.
Here are links to each:
1.) Half Pecker 2024
Just under 37 miles and around 1,800 feet of climbing, this is a good route for those of us cycopaths who might have something else to do that day. The route takes you out to the back hills of Lexington and Bellville, and then you take a straight shot back to PKRHeadquarters via the B&O rail trail. Nice and easy. But still relatively challenging.
2.) Full Pecker 2024
This is for those of us who wanna push, but also want an easier finish along the B&O. Just under 65 miles and 4,100 feet of climbing, it’s sure to put your endurance and hubris to the test. Beautiful scenery full of peckerheady climbs through Bellville and Butler.
The big dog. Coming in at 78 miles and 7,200 feet of climbing, the John Holmes goes out to all the frikin’ crazies who can’t get enough suffering in the saddle. This is the only route of the Peckerhead that contains some gravel roads. Loose stuff. So bring your rigs that allow for wider tires. This is still a road ride, though. So don’t get all spirit-of-gravel on us and wear your beenies and flannels.
A note on road markings
The official PKR road markings are circles with arrows pointing you in the right direction. MOST of these markings will be bright green. As pictured below.
However, I ran out of green paint while out on the route and had to rely on Walmart — which did not carry green. So I bought a can of orange.
So. You will notice a color change along the B&O trail and along the end of the John Holmes route. But these markings will still have a circle and arrow. As pictured below.
Follow the signs for your preferred route and you’ll be fine. And if you have any questions, feel free to ask.
Alright, another thing: register.
This ride is free, yes. But registering does two very important things. 1.) It is the only way I know how to contact you in the future, with mailings, emails, letters, etc. etc. 2.) It’s the only way we know how much food to buy.
So do yourself and myself a favor. Register for this thing. A good amount of you have already, and I thank you! But I know there are more than a few peckerheads out there doing the procrastination thing. I get it. But just do it. It takes like 3 minutes, yo.
Oh, in case you’re seeing all of this for the first time and are super lost … here’s some basic information on what the crap I’m talking about.
The Peckerhead is a (free) annual bicycle ride through some of Ohio’s greatest country. And you are invited to join. Briefly, here’s how it works:
What: Peckerhead 2024
When: June 15, 2024
Where: 451 Davis Road, Mansfield OH 44907
How much: Free (donations welcome)
Why: Because.
Routes: There’s three. This one, this one and this one.
Agenda: HQ opens at 7:30 a.m. Ride starts at 9 a.m. Ride bikes. Be happy. Return to HQ for beer, weenies and banter. This will take all day. Come and go as you please.
Here’s an aerial view of PeckerHQ, with an orange circle denoting parking areas.
Do you like FAQs? Cool, we have one of those too.
Is the Peckerhead a supported race?
Nope. No timing chips, no aid stations. There will not be a sag wagon. This is a self-supported road ride through Ohio’s greatest country. Bring water, electrolytes and snacks in your saddle bags and pockets. Each route will pass the Duchess gas station in Bellville, where you can stop to refuel if you wish.
Any gravel on the routes?
None on the Half and Full Pecker routes. Just nice and smooth asphalt with the occasional pebbles and sticks and potholes and roadkill. There are some short sections of gravel on the John Homes route.
I know this is a free ride, but I want to contribute in some way. How can I do that?
Thank you! There are a few things you can do.
If finances are your thing:
1.) You have my mailing address, so you could snail-mail a check. Write them out to “Dillon Carr.”
2.) Or send funds to my Venmo account: @Dillon-Carr-1
You can also bring a side dish for the food festivities after. Think cold, carb-heavy dishes like potato salad, pasta salad, regular green salad, chips, dips, veggies, etc. Most cyclists also enjoy beer, so you could bring a six pack, too. Or you could bring non-alcoholic options, like Gatorade or other sports drinks.
I have a food allergy, how can I communicate with you on those specifics?
Please send me an email and we’ll make sure we have what you like. (brazdill DOT 25 AT gmail DOT com.)
Will there be merch to buy?
Not this year, sorry.
Where do I park?
Woodland Elementary School has ample parking in its lots on the north and east side of the property. When those are all taken up, you can park along the street at your own risk.
Where do I pee and poo?
Great question. Well, on the route … you’re kinda on your own. Might I suggest a great buy: Sh*t Kit. It has everything you need when porta-johns aren’t available.
I request that you take care of business before you come over to PeckerHQ. We are working on securing porta-johns to be stationed at PeckerHQ.
Can I use your shower?
Probably not. We will provide a hose outside that you can use to sprinkle off if needed.
GET PUMPED. (But first, register.)
Who’s coming to PKR 2024?! Leave a comment below to let everyone know you’re coming!