PKR has been rescheduled.
Keep reading for the details.
Hello everyone,
Most of you have already heard from me, but I wanted to create another way to get the news out:
This Saturday’s PKR ride has been rescheduled for June 22, 2025.
This decision was not made lightly. I know this means some of you won’t be able to make it. But it might mean that some of you are now able to make it.
There was a lot that went into the decision. The forecast for incoming Friday, Saturday and Sunday drove it. It’s gonna be wet. And thunderstormy. I called off Friday to do most of the prep work — and if it’s going to rain all day it doesn’t make for good conditions.
Plus, I surveyed everyone who’s already signed up. Most of them said they wouldn’t come out to ride in the rain.
When I asked for possible rain dates, most reported that either June 22 or 29 would work. So … June 22 it is.
So here’s the new rundown:
What: An annual (self-supported) ride followed by eat/drink at our house
When: June 22, 2025. Doors open at 8 a.m. Rollout at 9 a.m.
Where: We start and end at 451 Davis Road, Mansfield OH 44907
How much: Free (donations welcome)
Why: I adopted this free, annual bike ride from Jay Allred in 2024 because I believe riding bikes with others is an endeavor worth perpetuating. I'm inviting you because I think you feel the same way.
Should I RSVP? Yes please! This is the only way we know how much food to prepare.
Here’s a recap of the routes, which will be marked ASAP. Keep scrolling for an FAQ section.
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.
PKR FAQ
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?
(This info is from last year’s [2024] ride. I will update this as soon as we have new routes marked.) 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.) Become a paying member of Cycotherapy. Your support guarantees the continuation of this annual ride and this newsletter devoted to reminding you to have fun on your bike.
2.) You have my mailing address, so you could snail-mail a check. Write them out to “Dillon Carr.”
3. ) 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, beans, 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.
If you bring something that requires refrigeration, we will likely store it in one of several large coolers until it’s time to eat. (Most cyclists will start showing up between 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.)
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. The pic below shows the school’s lots.
Where do I pee and poo?
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. But we will have a porta-john on the premise for those last-minute tinkles and pre-race rumbles.
Can I use your shower?
Probably not. We will provide a hose outside that you can use to sprinkle off if needed. If you need to change into dry clothes, let me know and we’ll work something out.
*Any other questions? Please don’t hesitate to send me an email or leave a comment.