I’ve done GdN in the past. You’ll be fine on 32’s.
Look me up when you get to MN (or if you’re already here). I’m in the south metro, in Apple Valley.
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Hey there, yes, I’m riding it this year. I’m torn on which mileage. Probably will be the 54 miler. The last time I raced it was in 2018 and rode Maxxis Refuse in 32 and had no issues. I’m currently running Specialized Roubaix Pros (35mm measured) and debating on just leaving them on or swapping them for my Panaracer Gravel King 43’s.
Which mileage are you doing?
I registered for the–I guess it’s now 50 miles–middle distance version. I wonder what the final course length will be. It’s listed as 54, 55, and now 50 miles. Was ~64 in 2018.
Thanks for the info, I’m hoping to do the 100. I just need to talk my buddy into it too:)
Just signed up for the 110! Any hike a bike sections? I’m currently set up on Garmin Vector pedals and some far too expensive road shoes. Considering buying a pair of MTB pedals/shoes…
Thanks for the feedback! I’m planning on getting out for a road and/or gravel ride this Sunday. Forecast looks beautiful with a high of 53F. I’m in Inver Grove Heights so we’re relatively close. Hit me up if you wanna ride (612-741-5552). - Jake
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I remember Loon State racing in our Diablo Crits in Menasha WI a few seasons ago. I took quite a few photos that day!
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Whether there are hike a bike sections (at least in my experience) is a function of how dry it has been leading up to the race. If it has been wet, I’d probably want mountain bike shoes and pedals.
I haven’t done the long version, but I don’t think there are any sections that will require walking.
I did the 110 in 2019, there were no hike-a-bike sections. You could get by on 32s but would be more comfortable with something closer to 40s (I ran 42c resolutes).
+1 to Chris Balser (BicycleFitGuru.com).
@jberg I hope it’s OK that I add a question to this thread…
Where do you all do outside workouts? Any favorite hills or stretches of road that work particularly well for intervals? FWIW, I live in Minnetonka - I do most of my intervals early in the morning on the Luce Line, Dakota Rail Trail, Lake Minnetonka LRT, or River Bluffs LRT.
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As you note, for any outdoor workout the best roads / route will depend a lot on duration of and target of intervals.
I find your noted trails nice to ride but depending on the section there can be road crossings that may be difficult to hold power through (or just very dangerous).
Many people ride roads like co rd 6 out to Watertown for longer uninterrupted intervals. There are a handful of other “good” country roads North/Northwest of Lake Minnetonka that lend themselves pretty well for lack of stoplights/stop signs and low traffic (check Strava heat map for decent guesses).
I’ve yet to find any really good climbs for several minute+ VO2 work, but think there are probably a few coming up from the MN River or Gravel down towards Carve etc…
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For SS/threshold intervals I go west county road 24 to county road 19, north on 19, and then make a loop out of it. There are a bunch of long roads with minimal stops out in that area. County road 24 is just north of county road 6 but it is less traveled, and not one single stop for about 5 miles.
For VO2 intervals I either go to dunkirk (segment is called dunkizzle). It is a 1.5 mile false flat. I will generally do the interval going north and rest going south. And @tnordberg is correct - there are some decent climbs (for MN) to do VO2 intervals coming out of the MN river valley. Off flying cloud drive there are a couple of hills you could probably turn into some decent VO2 intervals. Added bonus, Spring Road has a natural spring to fill up your water. It is always icy cold and most people will let you cut the line when they see how sweaty you are.
My two favorite roads for longer VO2 intervals are a couple of climbs coming out of chaska. Check out segments ‘Chaska Blvd over 212’ and ‘up shift creek’. I am a big fan of up shift creek. I only do it on my Cx bike though. The road is annoyingly rough for my road bike.
The Gear West Tuesday Night Time Trial route for anyone interested in a fun 10 mile out and back TT during the summer, check it out. 
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