Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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The start, finish, and registration zone for Tour de Fuzz is at the Luther Burbank Center, 50 Mark West Springs Rd in Santa Rosa, CA. Check-in opens Friday night from 5:00 to 8:00 pm and again on Saturday morning from 6:00 to 10:00 am. If you're in town, we highly recommend checking in Friday night to avoid the Saturday rush. Otherwise, plan to check in about 30 minutes before your roll-out time to keep things moving smoothly. Let's keep the scene clear and the wheels turning!
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Let’s talk fuel for the fleet! Before you roll out, we’ve got a Code Coffee situation; hot java, fresh fruit, yogurt, granola, trail mix, and, of course, the official breakfast of law enforcement… donuts. Hydration is key, so we’ll have plenty of water to get you locked and loaded for the ride.
Out on the course, our rest stops are fully stocked with the good stuff: our famous oven-roasted potatoes (yes, they’re as amazing as they sound), fresh oranges and bananas, nuts, PB&J, cookies, chips, trail mix, energy bars, gels, and electrolyte drinks to keep you rolling strong.
Need backup? Just pull over at a rest stop and refuel like a pro; we’ll have everything you need to stay in pursuit of that finish line!
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This year’s post-ride feast is shaping up to be downright criminal in the best way possible. Sonoma County Catering Company is rolling out their infamous Chipotle BBQ Chicken, slow-cooked on-site to juicy perfection and served both on and off the bone with your choice of BBQ, Sweet, or Hot sauce for a full-blown flavor investigation.
Not feeling like a carnivore? No problem. Their Penne Pesto Primavera is packed with al dente pasta, fresh local veggies, and a nutty pesto sauce that’ll have you coming back for seconds. There’s also a full lineup of fixings, including smoky BBQ Beans, crisp Caesar Salad, tangy Cole Slaw, and warm, fluffy Hawaiian Rolls slathered in creamy butter. And because no case is closed without dessert, our chaplains will be dishing up hand-scooped Vanilla Bean Ice Cream with all the sundae toppings you could ask for.
Wash it all down with unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks, and you’ve got yourself a meal that might just be too good to be legal. While we do our best to accommodate everyone, if you have strict dietary needs—whether for medical, religious, or personal reasons—please plan ahead and bring along what you need. We’ll still have plenty of backup to keep you fueled for the ride.
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No need to call for backup—vegetarians are well taken care of at Tour de Fuzz. For registered riders who prefer to skip the infamous BBQ meats, we’ve got a lineup of delicious options ready to roll. Dig into Penne Pesto Primavera, featuring perfectly al dente pasta tossed with vibrant local veggies and a nutty pesto sauce. Pair it with smoky BBQ Beans, crisp Caesar Salad with garlicky croutons and parmesan, and fresh Cole Slaw dressed in a tangy, slightly sweet sauce.
No meal is complete without warm, fluffy Hawaiian Rolls served with creamy butter, and of course, dessert is never left off the case file. Our chaplains will be on the scene, scooping up Vanilla Bean Ice Cream with all the sundae toppings you could want.
While we do our best to accommodate everyone, if you have strict dietary needs—whether vegan, allergy-related, religious, or medical—please bring along what you need to fuel up. We’ll have plenty of great options, but your best bet is to plan ahead so you can enjoy the ride without any food-related stakeouts.
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Back by popular demand, grill master Chef Cesar and his crew from Sonoma County Catering Company are taking command of this year’s after-party BBQ. With over 17 years of experience and a résumé that includes working alongside celebrity chefs across the country, Cesar is a Sonoma County favorite—and for good reason.
But it’s not just his culinary skills that make him a legend. When the Tubbs Fire devastated the area, Cesar and his team stepped up, providing meals to both fire victims and first responders. His commitment to the community is as strong as his flavors, and we’re proud to have him back on the scene.
From perfectly grilled meats to sides that hit the spot, Chef Cesar knows how to serve up a feast worthy of the ride. So bring your appetite, fuzzies—you’re in for a meal that’s as good for the soul as it is for the stomach.
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Got a non-riding guest who wants in on the feast and festivities? We’ve got 200 guest tickets up for grabs, but once they’re gone, they’re gone. Available online only for a $75 donation, these tickets are first come, first served; so don’t wait. No on-site BBQ tickets will be sold, so make sure to secure yours in advance.
To keep things running smoother than a well-oiled chain, the venue has a set occupancy limit with fixed table and chair seating. Only registered riders and guests with pre-purchased tickets will be allowed onto the premises. Please don’t bring extra guests without a ticket, as they won’t be permitted to enter; we appreciate your cooperation in keeping the event enjoyable for everyone.
Guest tickets include the full all-you-can-eat BBQ spread, gourmet sides, local IPA beers, wine, ice cream, and access to the venue and afterparty. Non-riders should plan to arrive after 11:30 AM on Saturday, with music and festivities officially kicking off at noon in accordance with local residential ordinances. Get your tickets early and get ready to celebrate post-ride in style.
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Negative (that’s NO); there will be no BBQ tickets sold on-site. If you want in on the feast, be sure to lock down your tickets in advance before they disappear.
The venue has a strict occupancy limit with fixed table and chair seating, so to keep things running smoothly, only registered riders and guests with pre-purchased tickets will be allowed on the premises for the festivities. Please don’t bring extra guests without a ticket; they won’t be permitted to enter. We appreciate your cooperation in making sure everyone has the space to enjoy the afterparty without any overcrowding.
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Good news, fuzzies—parking just got an upgrade for 2025. We’ve added 200 additional on-site spots, so most parking will be available right at the main venue at 50 Mark West Springs Road in Santa Rosa.
When you roll in, event center staff will be on duty to direct you to lots A, B, C, and D. Need backup? There’s plenty of overflow parking available at Kaiser in lot E.
A quick PSA: lock your vehicles, take your valuables, and don’t forget your keys. We’re here to throw a party, not conduct a stolen property investigation—we aren’t responsible for loss or damage. Plan ahead, park smart, and we’ll see you at roll call.
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Heads up, fuzzies—hotel space is tight this year, so if you need a place to crash, don’t wait to book. These nearby spots are just a few miles from Tour de Fuzz and have limited availability.
Check out the Hampton by Hilton, Vintners Inn, Best Western Plus Wine Country, The Sandman, Holiday Inn Express in Windsor, or the Hampton Inn in Windsor. Rooms are going fast, so lock in your stay before you’re left bunking in your squad car.
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When we came up with the name Tour de Fuzz, we were floored to learn that almost everyone under 30 had no idea “the Fuzz” was—and in our minds, still is—slang for the cops. Blame it on the rebellious hippies of the ‘60s, who coined the term, but we decided to roll with it as a little self-deprecating humor.
Now, cops from far and wide ride alongside the law enforcement-supporting public, all pedaling together to support our incredible chaplains—those highly trained, compassionate folks who step in during times of great crisis.
And let’s be real, any word with two Z’s in it has to be cool, right? That’s why we affectionately call our riders “Fuzzies.” Welcome aboard, Fuzzies—glad to have you in the squad!
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Listen up, Fuzzies—this is not a race. The roads are open, and riders must obey all California Vehicle Code (CVC) laws. Our routes stick mostly to lightly traveled backroads, but you will encounter vehicle traffic. Play it safe, follow the rules, and know that failure to do so could get you expelled from the ride.
A properly fitting, CPSC-approved helmet is required at all times—no exceptions. Ride single file as much as possible. If you find yourself riding double, stay sharp for approaching vehicles (including faster cyclists) and single up quickly. And if you hear sirens, pull off and stop—first responders always have the right of way.
Be courteous to motorists and residents along the route. They’re our neighbors, and while you may ride here once or twice a year, they see cyclists passing their homes, farms, and wineries every day. A little goodwill goes a long way, and how we ride today impacts our chances of returning in the future. Be a good ambassador for cycling, keep it friendly, and let’s make sure Tour de Fuzz remains welcome on these roads for years to come. Thanks for your cooperation!
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If it’s got pedals and you’re putting in the work, you’re good to roll. Road bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, hybrids, trikes, recumbents, tandems, cruisers—you name it. We also allow pedal-assisted Class 1 and Class 3 e-bikes (the kind that give you a boost while you pedal).
However, Class 2 e-bikes (which don’t require pedaling), mopeds, scooters, and motorcycles are not permitted. This is a ride, not a motorcade—so keep it human-powered (with a little e-assist, if needed), and we’ll see you at roll call!
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There are plenty of ways to make sure you stay on course. At check-in, you’ll get a route map and cue sheet, and the roads are well marked with colored arrows on the pavement. Plus, each route has a downloadable map, so if you’ve got a fancy bike computer, now’s the time to put it to work.
50K (32 miles) – “The Enthusiast” This scenic cruise rolls through stunning vineyards, Windsor, Healdsburg, and the historic Wohler Bridge—a prime photo op. With just 1,000 feet of climbing over 32 miles, it’s a route that suits just about anyone. The ride takes you back to the start through charming farmland, where the infamous afterparty BBQ and unlimited beer await. Until then, you’ll have plenty of backup in the form of gourmet rest stops and energy treats.
100K (62 miles) – “The Roadie” Our most popular ride and a true Fuzzie favorite. This magnificent 62-mile route delivers rolling hills, iconic Sonoma County wine roads—including the legendary West Side miracle mile—plus charming bridges over the Russian River and small farming towns like Geyserville and Jimtown. With manageable climbs totaling 2,800 feet, it’s the perfect blend of challenge and beauty. Quiet backroads lead you to the finish, where BBQ and unlimited beer are waiting. And along the way? Fully stocked rest stops and a squad of friendly volunteer cheerleaders to keep you going.
100 Miles – “The Commando” This is it—the infamous Tour de Fuzz Century ride. A true test of endurance, it takes you through the very best of Sonoma County: vineyard landscapes, Dry Creek Valley, historic bridges, and charming towns all the way north to Cloverdale, with a lunch stop at beautiful Lake Sonoma. Feeling extra bold? Take on the optional King/Queen of the MountainRockpile Road challenge at Warm Springs Dam for a shot at a commemorative jersey and some serious bragging rights. Riders who complete The Commando will have tackled 100 miles and climbed over 6,800 feet. Once you make it back, a hero’s welcome awaits—our legendary BBQ afterparty with all the beer you can drink. The Commando includes two meals and plenty of rest stops along the way to keep you fueled and ready to roll.
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Fuzzies, it’s on you to bring a bike that’s in safe working condition and properly fitted—this isn’t the time for a last-minute tune-up. Make sure you’re rolling with a pump that works with your valves, at least one water bottle (we strongly suggest two), a tire patch kit, and a properly sized spare tube.
Always carry ID and emergency contact numbers, and it’s a smart move to include your medical insurance info and blood type. Safety first, always.
And let’s talk about road etiquette. Be courteous to motorists and residents along the route—they’re our neighbors, and while you may only ride here once or twice a year, they see cyclists cruising past their homes, farms, and wineries everyday. A little goodwill goes a long way, and how you ride today impacts whether we get to keep coming back. Be a good ambassador for cycling, keep it friendly, and let’s make sure Tour de Fuzz stays welcome on these roads for years to come. Thanks for doing your part!
14. Should I prep for the ride with stretches? Fuzzies, don’t skip the stretch! A good warm-up and cool-down can make all the difference when it comes to keeping those legs fresh and ready to roll. Stretching before and after your rides helps with recovery and can ease the sting of delayed onset muscle soreness—because let’s face it, no one wants to feel like they’ve been through a high-speed pursuit the next day.
Check out these stretches to help speed up recovery and keep you pedaling strong. Your muscles will thank you later!
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Stretching prior to your workouts, and after your workouts can help the healing and recovery process of delayed onset muscle soreness. Check out these stretches to help your training recovery.
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No mass start here, Fuzzies—this isn’t a pursuit, it’s a ride. To make sure rest stops are open when you roll through, we strongly recommend starting your route within these windows:
For the 100-mile Commando, hit the road between 6:00 – 7:30 AM.
For the 100K Roadie, roll out between 7:30 – 9:00 AM.
For the 50K Enthusiast, launch between 9:00 – 10:00 AM.Stick to these times, and you’ll have the full Tour de Fuzz experience—rest stops stocked, volunteers ready, and plenty of good times waiting at the finish line.
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No strict time limits here, Fuzzies—this isn’t a race, it’s a ride. But keep in mind that rest stops will close once traffic slows down, and food service at the Finish wraps up at 5:00 PM.
If you find yourself falling behind and need a lift back to the Finish, just call the SAG number on your route slip. We’ve got backup standing by to bring you in—because no Fuzzie gets left behind.
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We’re the Fuzz—here to serve, protect, and make sure you have the best ride possible. Tour de Fuzz has top-tier support, including course marshals, SAG vehicles (equipped with radios), and medics, all patrolling the routes to assist riders and pick up anyone who can’t continue.
Each route passes multiple fully stocked rest stops loaded with nutritious snacks, beverages, and a bike mechanic ready to handle any mechanical hiccups. If you find yourself in need of help, call the support phone number on the back of your route slip—backup is always on duty.
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Need to ditch some gear? We’ve got a courtesy drop table at the venue for that—but not at any of the rest stops, so plan accordingly.
A quick reminder: we’re not responsible for lost items, so keep track of your stuff and don’t leave the venue without it. We’d rather be celebrating at the afterparty than running an impound lot for forgotten gear.
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Get ready to feel like a celebrity, Fuzzies—because Tour de Fuzz participants are treated like full-on paparazzi magnets. This year, Captivating Sports Photos will be stationed at some of the most scenic spots along the route, capturing your best ride moments.
Photos will generally be available for purchase within 48 hours after the ride, so make sure your rider number is clearly visible to make finding your shots a breeze. Not only will you get epic ride photos, but your purchase helps support the Law Enforcement Chaplaincy, so we appreciate the extra backing.
After the event, check our website for links to view and snag your photos—because if you rode it but didn’t get a picture, did it even happen?
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Who doesn’t dig the pig? We’ve got Tour de Fuzz swag ready to roll at the afterparty, including our signature branded pint glasses—perfect for your favorite post-ride beverage—and event-related apparel to show off your Fuzzie pride.
If you’re eyeing a cycling jersey, we strongly recommend ordering online in advance to lock in your preferred size and style. We’ll also be opening an online store where you can snag Fuzzie merch anytime to commemorate your ride.
Bring your wallet, because every purchase helps fund the Law Enforcement Chaplaincy—so you can look good while doing good.
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You betcha! We’ve got a dedicated, cordoned-off area watched over by well-trained police cadet supervisors where you can park your bike during check-in and after the ride.
That said, we can’t guarantee its safety 100%, so we strongly recommend locking it securely—or, if practical, stashing it safely in your vehicle. A little extra precaution goes a long way in keeping your ride where it belongs—with you!
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Can’t make the ride? No problem—someone else can take your spot and enjoy the glory! Just download the Transfer Form, and your lucky transferee will pay a $15 transfer fee at check-in to take over your registration.
They don’t even have to stick to your original route! If you signed up for the 50K but they want to tackle the 100K or full Commando century, they’re welcome to upgrade—they’ll just need to pay the price difference. For example, if they’re moving from the 50K to the 100K, they’ll pay an additional $10.
However, there are no discounts if they choose a shorter route. So if you signed up for the 100K and they decide to ride the 50K, that’s their call—but the registration fee stays the same.
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This ride sells out fast, and unfortunately, we do not offer refunds—once you’re registered, we immediately start covering costs like insurance and event expenses.
That said, we get it—life happens, and sometimes you just can’t make the ride. The good news? There are always riders looking for a spot. You’re welcome to sell or transfer your registration to someone else. About three weeks before event day, check out our Facebook page to connect with potential buyers.
All sales are final, no exceptions, but we appreciate your understanding. If you can’t ride, at least you’ll know another Fuzzie is out there making the most of your spot!
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Rain or shine, Fuzzies—we roll no matter what. Like the postman, the ride must go on (or something like that). A little rain? Just another excuse for extra camaraderie out on the road.
While there are no refunds, you can transfer your registration to another rider. So if the forecast isn’t your style, find someone ready to take your spot and keep the wheels turning!
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Yes, all riders must be registered and check in to participate—no exceptions. At check-in, we’ll verify your identity, so don’t forget to bring a photo ID.
During online registration, you already signed the participation waiver electronically, so that’s covered. At check-in, you’ll receive your rider number and bracelet, which are your all-access pass to the course and all the perks; fabulous ride food, a well-earned post-ride meal, entertainment, and of course, complimentary beer and wine.
Keep your rider number and bracelet with you at all times during the event; without them, there’s no entry to the kickin’ afterparty, and where’s the fun in that?
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Yes, you can change your ride distance at check-in—just stop by the registration table, and our friendly staff will get you squared away.
If you’re downgrading to a shorter route, there are no refunds (but hey, at least you’ll get to the BBQ and beer faster). If you’re upgrading to a longer ride, there’s a $10 fee per level—for example, jumping from the 50K to the 100-mile route would be two levels, so you’d pay an additional $20.
You can take care of any upgrade fees at check-in, and then you’re good to roll!
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If you haven’t ridden a 100-mile ride before, don’t let this be your first. Seriously.
Our 100-mile Commando ride (not to be confused with naked riding) is a beast. It’s got miles, climbs, and an optional Rock Pile Road King/Queen of the Mountain challenge that will test even the strongest riders. If you’re taking this one on, you should be extra fit and ready to roll—because this route doesn’t pull any punches.
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Absolutely not. Tour de Fuzz is for everyone, whether you wear the badge or just want to ride alongside those who do.
We call it a “ride with Sonoma County’s Finest” because it’s about community—bringing people together to appreciate law enforcement and the chaplaincy working side by side for a stronger, healthier community. Yes, we have plenty of LEO riders (that’s Law Enforcement Officer lingo), but only about 30% of our participants are affiliated with law enforcement.
The other 70%? Just good folks who love a great ride, great food, and a great cause. If that sounds like you, you’re in the right place!
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Yes, kids can ride! And so can kids-at-heart—like us.
Most of our riders range from their early 20s to 70s, but younger cyclists are welcome, too. Riders under age 16 must have a parent or guardian riding with them—no solo missions for the junior squad.
One exception: really small kids in trailer attachments are not allowed. Safety first, Fuzzies—we want everyone to have a great ride and make it back to the BBQ in one piece!