Frequently Asked Questions
What you need to know about the Grand Fundo
WHAT IS the GRAND FUNDO?
In the cycling world, a gran fondo is a massive group ride that can attract thousands of cyclists of all ages and abilities. We call our event the Grand FUNdo because we think it will be the most fun bike ride you’ll have this season.
HOW DO I GET TO THE FUNDO?
Our bike rides begin and end at the Cummington Fairgrounds, 97 Fairgrounds Rd., Cummington, Massachusetts, 01026. Please get to the fairgrounds by 8:00 a.m. so you can park, hobnob and grab a light breakfast before we ride. We stage at 8:45 a.m. by the bleachers. All rides start at 9:00 a.m. (Please note, day-of registration closes at 8:30 a.m. on Sunday.)
who can ride the fundo?
Anyone who regularly rides a bike on gravel roads enough to finish at least 30 miles.
Can we bring the kids?
Absolutely! We have a ten mile bike ride, a water slide, music and other activities for the kids to enjoy.
IS THE RIDE SUPPORTED?
Yes. We have full-stocked rest stops with Skratch hydration, snacks and our signature Fluffernutter, peanut butter, blueberry and bacon sandwiches. We have limited technical support on the gravel sectors. Plan to bring your own tubes, pump and levers to change a flat tire, just in case. Please note, the sag wagon may not be able to enter all gravel sections.
What bike should I bring?
We highly recommend a gravel bike with 40c tires. A mountain bike is also an option, but there are paved roads on all routes so the ride may be more enjoyable on a gravel or cross bike. Because of the gravel and double-track mixed terrain, everyone should bring tools to fix a flat.
WHERE CAN I download THE ROUTES?
29.9-mile Mini Fundo: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41917602
52.5-mile Grand Fundo: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/41917625
75.6-mile Adventure Loop: https://ridewithgps.com/routes/47187672
IS THERE a post-ride party?
Yes! After the ride, we’ll have a delicious meal and drinks for you at Cummington Fairgrounds, the spot where all the rides start and end. The meal is catered by the Chesterfield General Store and includes marinated chicken, pork, tofu, roasted veggies, rice, beans, watermelon, beer and ice cream, and we’ll have beer from Dirt Church. All of that is included in the price of your ride registration. You can buy an extra meal ticket for friends or family who are not taking part in the ride. Don’t forget to grab some tickets for our random drawing so you can win prizes from our sponsors!
Is there a vegetarian option for dinner?
Yes. The food crew will prepare vegetarian options such as grilled tofu, beans, rice and veggies. There will also be plenty of side dishes and drinks. If you have particular dietary needs, please contact us ahead of time and we'll do our best to address your concerns.
HOW MUCH DOES IT COST TO PARK AT THE FAIRGROUNDS?
Parking is free. If you want to camp, there is an extra cost. See below.
can i camp at the fairgrounds?
Yes. It costs $35 to camp at the fairgrounds, and we expect that several riders will be camping and hanging out together all weekend before Sunday’s Fundo. You can bring a camp stove but open fires are prohibited. There are bathrooms and showers on site. If you’re interested in a hotel, see recommendations below. You can pay for your camping when you register for the event.
shakeout RIDE AND SWIM
Join former four-time U.S. Cyclocross National Champion Ellen Noble and members of the JAM family for a 16-mile shakeout ride on Saturday 2:00pm from the Cummington Fairgrounds. No registration necessary. The ride will wind along the Westfield River and we’ll jump in the gorge for a relaxing swim before riding back to the fairgrounds. Don’t forget your bathing suit! Check your email for more details leading up to the event.
ARE PROS INVITED?
One this is for sure: there are always pros and former pros at the Fundo. JAM Fund Co-Founder and four-time U.S. National Cyclocross Champion Jeremy Powers will lead out the Fundo with JAM Fund team riders and friends. You may see other lifelong members of the JAM Fund Family including three-time U.S. National Cyclocross Champion Stephen Hyde, U23 Cyclocross National and World Champion Ellen Noble, Anthony Clark, Jeremy Durrin and maybe even U.S. National Criterium Champion Brad Huff. In the past, our pro guests included Tim Johnson, Ryan Trebon, Cynthia Frazier, Gabby Durrin, Phil Gaimon, Ted King, Ben Wolfe, Mo Bruno Roy, Jamie Driscoll, Lyne Bessette, Olivia Dillon, Kevin Monahan, Emerson Oronte and Mike Creed. There are always familiar faces who show up to the Fundo!
Will I get lost?
The routes will be clearly marked with arrows and signs. We also suggest you download the GPS routes to help you navigate through the trails. Please bring your tools.
Where does all the money go?
All the proceeds from the Fundo go to the JAM Fund program devoted to helping young enthusiastic cyclists become professional athletes and better stewards in society.
WHERE Can I STAY?
Camp out with members of the JAM fam at the Cummington Fairgrounds, 97 Fairgrounds Rd., Cummington, Massachusetts. If it rains there are big dry barns.
If you’re more of a baller, stay at the Hotel Northampton or Inn on Boltwood
How Do I register?
Register on BikeReg or on the morning of the ride at the fairgrounds.
