In addition to Bulette's groups, there are also a number of riders who ride Ragbrai a day ahead of the main group. So none of the hoopla and crowds that you
encounter on Ragbrai but the markings and setups are ready.
But to address the initial poster, the ride days are physically not challenging in terms of distance but you need to do enough riding days in
a row of a length to make sure your crotch/saddle/shorts/shoes all agree and don't become problems after a week on the bike. Many states
have cross state spring/summer/fall rides done every year and some have partial state rides as options in addition to the week long variants.
Last edited by sch; 08-13-21 at 11:57 AM.