Hello, members.
Tomorrow, many of you will be heading to or already at the location for the Seorak Gran Fondo, but after checking the Korea Meteorological Administration's neighborhood forecast and mountain weather forecast in real-time, the situation is much more serious than expected.
It's not just "occasional rain" — heavy rain is forecasted during peak riding hours, so I'm sharing detailed information and essential precautions.
1. Hourly Weather Forecast (Inje Sangnam and Seorak Mountain Area)
06:00 ~ 09:00 (Right after departure): Rain will start and hourly precipitation will gradually increase (approximately 13mm expected). From this time onward, it's already a heavy downpour that will soak you completely.
09:00 ~ 15:00 (Pass series and downhill peak): This is the most dangerous section. According to the meteorological forecast, 'heavy rain' exceeding 20mm per hour will pour down. This is torrential rain approaching the 30mm per hour rainfall caution level I mentioned earlier.
Temperature and wind: The daytime high temperature will remain at 15~16℃, but in mountainous areas like Guryong Pass and Jochim Pass summits, the perceived temperature will drop below 10℃. Combined with slightly strong northeast winds, the risk of hypothermia is extremely high.
2. Essential Bicycle Setup for 'Surviving' Seorak in the Rain
If you're aiming to complete tomorrow's event, you must change your equipment setup to prevent accidents.
Lower tire pressure (essential): Lower it at least 10~15 psi compared to normal. By increasing the contact area, you can at least prevent slipping caused by hydroplaning on wet surfaces, manhole covers, and slick sections.
Brake pad inspection: For rim brake users, pads wear 3~4 times faster compared to dry conditions. Be sure to check pad remaining thickness before departure, and disc brake users should also expect braking distance to be more than twice as long as usual, so you need to develop a habit of advance braking (early braking).
Chain oil: Light dry lube will be completely washed away by rain. Be sure to generously apply wet lube before you go. This will prevent chain rattle and noise in the later stages.
3. Clothing and Safety Reminder
Windproof/waterproof jacket absolutely required: Thinking "I'll warm up as I ride" will result in hypothermia-induced handlebar shaking and crashes on the Jochim Pass downhill. Be sure to pack a long-sleeve waterproof jacket or windbreaker in your jersey pocket.
Downhill 'never speed up': Tomorrow's downhill is not a section to break records — it's a survival section. Complete your braking on the straightaway before entering corners and navigate without laying the bike over.
This is an event you've been training and waiting for over a long time, but tomorrow, reckless drafting or speeding can lead to major accidents. The mental fortitude to DNF without hesitation if the organizers intervene or weather worsens is also a skill tomorrow.
To all Dosae members participating, please don't get injured and finish safely (or return safely). Safety is the top priority!
