Randonneur

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It has been suggested that this article or section be merged into Brevet (cycling). (Discuss)

A randonneur is a participant in a randonnée or brevet - an organised long-distance, non-competitive bicycle ride. The term Audax - bold - is also used. The original events were 200 km in 14 hours between summer sunrise and sunset in Italy. Any type of human-powered cycle may be used, recumbent, tandem, tricycle, velocar, etc. Even a large wheeled scooter has been used in the Paris-Brest-Paris event.

Such cyclists follow a designated but unmarked route, passing through check-point controls, and must complete the course within a specified time limit. The standard brevet series consists of rides with distances of 200, 300, 400, 600 and 1000 km. A Super Randonneur is one who has completed the first four distances (200 to 600) within one year and is qualified to enter the prestigious 1200 km PBP ride.

The time limits for the distances are as follows:

200K - 13.5 hours (14 hours in the UK, as in the original events.)
300K - 20 hours
400K - 27 hours
600K - 40 hours
1000K - 75 hours
1200K - 84 or 90 hours (depending on various qualifications)

This limit, while challenging, still allows the ride to be completed at a comfortable pace—there is no requirement to cycle at racing speeds or employ road bicycle racing strategies. The standard brevets are conducted under the rules of the world governing body— the Randonneurs Mondiaux as applied by national organisations such as Audax Club Parisien (ACP), Randonneurs USA (RUSA), Audax UK (AUK), among many others.

Randonneurs do not compete against other cyclists; randonnées are a test of endurance, self-sufficiency and bicycle touring skills. Riders are expected to carry appropriate clothing for inclement weather, spare parts and tools needed for likely repairs. Brevets frequently involve night riding and participants are then required to carry lights, spare bulbs and reflective gear.