The Cycling Dude

You have a Bicycle, but don't know where to ride it?

A website has come to my attention that has as one of its aims to help you find ineresting places to go bike riding.

Things You Should Do is a Blog/Website by Julie Gallaher, the Irish Lass.

Begun in 2004 it has had over 500,000 visitors.

Things You Should Do is a list of things we’ve done, our friends and family have done and the things we want to do.

We provide direct links to the hotels, restaurants and activities so you can find out if they’re right for you.

So far she only has 10 cycling links, but hey ya have to start somewhere, and in appreciation for the fact that she has added this blog to a list of recommended blogs, and as a spur to her to add more info about cycling, I've added a link to her Cycling Archive in the sidebar.

Don't let that stop you, though.

Explore the other sections for your own ideas about where to take a ride, in the US, or somewhere else in the world.

Cycling Study Tours Offered by Brit Family Living in Netherlands

I recently received the following Press Release from Hembro Cycling Holidays/Cycling Study Tours, and let me say, up front, the resources they steer readers to are extensive, and interesting, and the many photos, and videos are a pure joy to look at, and will most likely make you extremely jealous and probably lead you to wonder why the hell can't the greatest nation in the world do some of this, too? ;-D

FACT GUARANTEED TO BLOW YOUR MIND: All Dutch railway stations seem to have thousands of bikes parked at them. ( Just watch the videos if you don't believe it. ;-D )

CYCLING STUDY TOUR

A Study Tour in the world's most cycle friendly country.

For transport professionals, politicians, campaigners and journalists.

There have been many words spoken about reducing CO2 emissions to tackle climate change, increasing the amount of exercise taken by the population to fight obesity and about the streets being made into places where people matter instead of motor vehicles. However, the English speaking world still does not invest sufficiently in truly sustainable transport. In fact, new infrastructure is still designed very much like the old infrastructure, emphasizing flow of motorized traffic above all else, reducing opportunities to take exercise as a part of everyday life, and decreasing the freedom of people to make use of the space outside their home. As a result, use of sustainable transport is low, obesity is growing and children are not given the freedom to get sufficient exercise.

Many countries seem to produce more words than action. Announcements of available money often sound substantial, but they're spread thinly and have low priority. Along with the lack of money there is the problem of a lack of vision about what good quality design for cyclists and pedestrians actually means. Low quality infrastructure makes the use of alternatives to the car unattractive.

It doesn't have to be this way.

Having made different policy decisions over many decades, the Dutch now travel travel by bicycle more often than by car. There is universal well designed infrastructure which makes cycling an appealing option for most people. As a result, most people cycle. Cyclists feel safe and their journeys are efficient and direct. Virtually all children cycle to school daily, incidence of obesity is comparatively low and reliance on fossil fuels is lower.

The Dutch are doing the right things and they have the results to prove it: More cycling, with a better safety record, than any other nation. Real, proven results, not just good intentions or hot air. Their success could and should be copied elsewhere.

Quick Facts:

In the entire Netherlands around 30% of all journeys are by bicycle. The second highest country is Denmark with around 14%. Most countries have under 2% of their journeys by bicycle, some fewer than 1%. Around 40% of journeys within Dutch cities are made by bicycle.

In the Netherlands, more journeys under 7.5 km / 5 miles are made by bicycle than by any other means.

In the Netherlands, older people are also mobile. Over 10% of cycle journeys are made by over 60s.

Virtually all Dutch school-children cycle to school.

Dutch cycle paths frequently offer shorter routes than the roads. They are smooth and well maintained. Dutch cyclists are not expected to share space with pedestrians, and the standard width for cycle only two direction paths is 4 metres ( 13 feet ).

Levels of public transport usage in the Netherlands are not much different than those in other countries. There is far greater potential for reduction in fossil fuel reliance by encouraging cycling than by subsidizing public transport. In addition it leads to a far greater cut in fuel usage and other benefits for society such as an increase in general health and a reduction in noise and fumes.

London recently announced its largest ever figure for walking and cycling: £500M. This sounds remarkable, and it's very welcome, but breaks down to a level of expenditure which is not particularly high by European standards. The sum is to be spread across several years. For instance, in 2008/2009, £62M is to be spent for both Walking and Cycling. Across London's 7.5M population this amounts to a little over £8 (approximately US$16) per person per year. Another European capital, Amsterdam, currently spends around €26 (approximately £20 or US$40) per person per year on cycling alone. Walking has a separate budget. Unlike UK cities, Dutch cities are not starting from nowhere. They have been spending this much for decades.

So what are we up to with our Study Tours?

Who are we ?

We are a British family who have lived and cycled in many parts of the UK including London, Cambridge, Somerset and Yorkshire. Our cycling experience includes commuting, shopping, tours with and without children, a little racing and even riding Land's End to John O'Groats (the entire length of Great Britain - 1700 km / 1100 miles).

We now live in the green city of Assen in the North of the Netherlands. Winters are cold here and headwinds are fierce, but the population of 63000 people nevertheless makes an average of 70000 cycle journeys per day. We make our share of those journeys.

What are we doing ?

We are organising Study Tours for all interested parties to show how much has been achieved in this country. We will be showing participants the result of design for people rather than for motorised vehicles. We will show the practical results of putting into action long term plans to achieve a more mobile and fitter society.

Over 3 full days we will show commuting routes, school routes, city centres, residential areas, links between villages and the design of new developments. All these were designed with cycling as a priority. We also have a presentation from local experts giving their rationale.

The cost of participating has been kept low in order that it will be accessible to as many people as possible.

Full details of the Study Tour, including photos and feedback from previous participants, can be found on our website:

The first Study Tour this year runs from the 13th to the 15th of May. This tour is now fully booked.

We are now taking bookings for the second Study Tour which runs from the 20th to the 22nd of May and soon will be taking bookings for the third Study Tour which runs from the 10th to the 12th of June.

References:

Articles in English about Dutch cycling policies

Photos:

Photos of Dutch cycling conditions.

Contact Details:

David and Judith Hembrow

E-MAIL: david at hembrow.eu

WEBSITE: Hembrow Cycling Holidays

***UPDATE - 4/7/08***

David Hembrow has sent me an interesting E-Mail in response to this post. ;-D

***END UPDATE***

Orange County Wheelmen Add Training Page to Website

The Orange County Wheelmen Cycling Club, hosts several of the best Cycling Events in Ca., every year, and have a very fine website.

Now it has added a new section to its site, a Training Page.

Front and center is an infromative article of interest to any member planning to do their very first Century ride.

There is a page of dates, times, locations, and miles of Training Rides, currently those for April, in preparation for the upcoming CINCO DE MAYO FIESTA 150 (100 mi. option, too!) - May 3 and 4.

There is another section of the website that has links to a series of training related articles in PDF format.

Non-Members are welcome on all Rides.

The Spring event, the 2008 SPRING CENTURY (103, 64 and 40 mile rides.) - March 29, has come and gone, but...

In the Summer and Fall, the events to look forward to are:

The World Famous RIDE AROUND THE BEAR! (100 mi.) -June 7

Amtrak Century (For over 30 years a great 1st Century Ride!) - Sept. 6

Fall Metric Century [Metric (64) or Half-metric (32) Centuries] - Oct. 25

Summer Cycling Event Celebrates 10 Years in Santa Cruz

The 10th Annual Santa Cruz Mountains Challenge is  Saturday, 26 July 2008, and once again I've been asked to spread the word.

The Santa Cruz Mountains Challenge is put on by The Santa Cruz County Cycling Club.  Proceeds from this annual event go to support the club’s bicycling education activities.

START: 6:30 – 8:30 AM

REGISTRATION:
  $45 early registration, $55 after 12 July 2008
  Registration closes on 21 July or when event is full – whichever comes first
  NO day of event registration
  Pre-registration the evening before the ride at the Scotts Valley Hilton – 5:30 to 7:30 PM

LOCATION: Scotts Valley High School
  555 Glenwood Drive, Scotts Valley, CA  95066

CONTACT: century@santacruzcycling.org

TWO CHALLENGING ROUTES:

The Century Challenge:  Ride some of the most scenic and challenging roads in the Western US while gaining over 11,000 feet in elevation (110+ feet per mile).  We start out with a Cat 2 climb on the famous Mt. Charley Road (roadbed was laid out in 1851) and moving on to other roads like Jamison Creek and E. Zayante.  Number of Category 1 climbs = 1; Cat 2 = 3; Cat 4 = 4.  Finishers surely have earned major bragging rights.

The Metric Century Challenge: The 65 mile route is by no means a wimp ride.  The course will cover many of the same roads as the full century.  With 7,800 feet in elevation gain, clearly a challenge for the most experienced riders.  Sharp switchbacks on steep descents will require alert technical riding.

FUEL:  Fantastic rest stops loaded with plenty of food and drink to keep you going.  Replenish your body at the end of the ride with a great gourmet burrito and ice cream.

EQUIPMENT:  Both routes require that riders have bikes and bodies in excellent shape, especially brakes and tires for a day on our mountain roads.  Layered clothes are a must with Santa Cruz's (usually) cool weather in the mornings and warmer daytime temps.   

BUZZ: $100 first-place prize each to the fastest man and women climbing Jamison Creek – 3 miles gaining 1,585’ in elevation (528’ per mile) starting at mile 46.

PARKING:  Scotts Valley High School - Please carpool if possible.

Santa Cruz Mountains Challenge 2007

The following has been sent to me from Barton T. Coddington, President of the Santa Cruz County Cycling Club:

EVENT: The Santa Cruz Mountains Challenge DATE: Saturday, 4 August 2007 START: 6:30 – 8:30 AM

REGISTRATION: $45 early registration, $55 after 15 July 2007 Registration closes on 31 July or when event is full – whichever comes first NO day of event registration Pre-registration the evening before the ride at the Scotts Valley Hilton – 6:00 to 8:00 PM

LOCATION: Scotts Valley High School, 555 Glenwood Drive, Scotts Valley, CA

WEBSITE: 2007 Santa Cruz Mountains Challenge.

CONTACT: century@santacruzcycling.org

TWO CHALLENGING ROUTES:

The Century Challenge: Ride some of the most scenic and challenging roads in the Western US while gaining over 10,000 feet in elevation (100+ feet per mile). We start out with a Cat 2 climb on the famous Mt. Charley Road (roadbed was laid out in 1851) and moving on to other roads like Jamison Creek and E. Zayante. Number of Category 1 climbs = 1; Cat 2 = 3; Cat 4 = 4. Finishers surely have earned major bragging rights.

The Metric Century Challenge: The 60 mile route is by no means a wimp ride. The course will cover many of the same roads as the full century. With over 6,000 feet in elevation gain, clearly a challenge for the most experienced riders. Sharp switchbacks on steep descents will require alert technical riding.

FUEL: Fantastic rest stops loaded with plenty of food and drink to keep you going. Replenish your body at the end of the ride with a great gourmet meal and ice cream.

EQUIPMENT: Both routes require that riders have bikes and bodies in excellent shape, especially brakes and tires for a day on our mountain roads. Layered clothes are a must with Santa Cruz's (usually) cool weather in the mornings and warmer daytime temps.

BUZZ: The event sold out in 2006 – register early to ensure a spot in this year’s challenge. CLOTHING: This year we are offering a fabulous jersey along with an event T-shirt.

The Santa Cruz Mountains Challenge is put on by The Santa Cruz County Cycling Club. Proceeds from this annual event primarily go to support the club’s bicycling educational activities.

Happy Cycling! ;-D

Acura Bike Tour Travels LA Marathon Route for 13th Year

Between 1997 and 2001 I participated in several Family Friendly Bike Tours, and attend related Bike Shows.

Only 1 such event saw my atttendance twice: The Acura L.A. Bike Tour that occurs each March, in the early morning hours before the running of the world famous L.A. Marathon.

Every year, since 1995, 15,000 Cyclists, young, and old, from around the world, begin to gather near the Los Angeles Coliseum, as early as 2 am the morning of the ride, and at dawn they set off for an approximate 24 mile ride through the empty streets of Los Angeles, along most, but not all, of the route followed later in the morning by the runners.

I 1st did it in 1998, and loved the experience so much I returned in 2001 ( Not sure if this year will be a return visit for me, yet ).

*** 7pm: We Interrupt This Post for a SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT!!

The Cycling Dude WILL be at the Expo on the 2nd, and the Ride on the 4th!!

We Now Return You to Our Regularly Scheduled Post***

All who complete the ride get a really cool medal to hang around their necks in pride. ;-D

The ride take participants on a tour that passes through several neighborhoods, and past many famous, and lesser known spots in the city.

While there are the usually contingent of Racers who, un-officially, contend for the honor of being the 1st, and fastest, to complete the ride, most folks take their time, and ride at a leisurely 10 to 12 mph, thus completing the ride well before stragglers are instructed to get off the route because the Wheelchair Event is about to start.

With spectators cheering from the curb the sense of fun, and solidarity in the love of cycling, is strong.

The variety of bikes on display is as varied as the ages, and nationalities of the riders, and is a fascinating part of the spectacle.

I like the description from the Official Website of this 1st of its kind event:

"As the day dawns in Exposition Park and the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, you can feel the excitement in the air as you mount your bike, surrounded by more than 15,000 people who enjoy riding their bicycles as much as you do. Knowing that the streets have been cleared of all motor vehicles, you look forward to hearing nothing but the sound of your fellow cyclists touring the traffic-free streets of Los Angeles for this one rare day each year.

With a host of celebrities leading the pack at a comfortable, yet challenging pace, the Acura L.A. Bike Tour begins and it is even better than you could possibly imagine. As you pass through the neighborhoods of LA, you enjoy the camaraderie of friends and families pedaling together. Savor just how serene the city can be when you take away the noise and stress caused by motor vehicles. With the impressive downtown skyline rising before you, you feel the anticipation that comes with closing in on completing the 20+ mile ride.

Surrounded by your fellow cyclists, you could not be more exhilarated as you cross the Acura LA Bike Tour Finish Line into Exposition Park"

After the ride you can go watch the Marathon for the rest of the day.

The The Quality of Life Expo is held at the LA Convention Center, Kentia Hall, March 2 and 3.
Friday, March 2 from 9 am – 8 pm.
Saturday, March 3 from 9 am – 6 pm.

I loved the Expo because of all the infomation, and products, one could see on display, and the free literature.

People with money to spend, of course, were buying things left, and right, but I was not among them. ;-D

This year, on March 4th ( A day before my Birthday!  Just like in 2001. ), the Marathon has a different route than it has ever had before, and from the looks of the Bike Course Map, it appears the Bike Tour Ride is different as well.

In the years I rode the ride headed west from the north side of the Coliseum, and made its way north to Sunset, then Hollywood and Vine, then east to Hollywood and Sunset, before heading south again through Echo Park to downtown.

The Acura L.A. Bike Tour proudly supports the YESPAL ( Youth Educational Sports ) after school education program, and the Yes Cycling Club Program.

There is something on the website that is important enough to spread the word about here:

A FEW REASONS FOR INTRODUCING BICYCLING AS  A SPORT IN SCHOOLS:

Bicycling needs a safe venue to practice the sport instead of the streets.

Bicycling must become an organized and recognized sport in secondary schools. Bicycling is a life sport that an individual can actively participate in for the rest of their lives.

Bicycling is the only sport that is a form of transportation for the short to long distances.

Our youth are suffering from obesity because of the lack of exercise and/or mobility.

Bicycling is a friendly sport easy on the joints (low impact), good for developing young bodies.

Bicycling is the best cross training for other popular school sports.

Bicycling can use existing school facilities to stage practices and competition.

Bicycling is an alternative to driving a car without a license.

Bicycling is a cost effective alternative to driving a car.

Bicycling should be subsidized as any other sport.

Some things to think about.

If you live in Southern California, and are looking for a good time for yourself, or your entire family, the Tour, Marathon, and Expo, is a can't go wrong experience. ;-D

The Tour is in its 13th year, and I look forward to riding it this Sunday, and many more times in the future!

***UPDATE - 3/2/07 ***

Read my Expo Preview Post here

***END UPDATE***

Okay, Okay, Cycling Season Begins in Jan

In entering a bunch of Event links in the sidebar, this morning, I discovered that the honor of getting the California Fun Ride Season under way each year belongs to at least 2 cities, in JANUARY, so sorry Palm Springs. ;-D

The Stagecoach Century was held on Jan.13th in Ocotillo, CA ( 80 miles east of San Diego on Interstate 8 ):

A Wild West cycling adventure along the historic Great Southern Overland Stage Route of 1849. The ride travels through the pristine deserts on County Route S2 in east San Diego and Imperial Counties. Enjoy stunning vista views from four desert passes along the route.

Learn more on the Official Website.

The Borrego Springs Century was held on January 27th, in Borrego Springs:

You have a choice of several paved road rides of up to 100 miles in distance. Other distances include 34 and 60 miles which are on the first loop. Make it a full century by adding the second unique loop! You will be treated to some of the greatest desert scenery anywhere.

Learn more on the Official Website.

Tour de Palm Springs Gets Year Rolling

The other day I mentioned that Cycling Season gets rolling in March.

Well, um, the good folks in Palm Springs had other ideas, hee, hee. ;-D

The 9th Annual Tour de Palm Springs was held on February 10th with a theme of "A Tribute to Music", and this year the tour began Downtown.

The Honorary Cyclist was Monty Hall. ;-D

The event was started to promote having fun while pedaling a bicycle far enough to amaze friends and co-workers while at the same time, volunteering for a good cause.

The first Tour de Palm Springs began in 1998 with just over 300 riders when Tim Esser rode his bicycle solo from Palm Springs, CA to Jacksonvile, FL for charity. Today, the Tour hosts nearly 8,000 riders of all ages and abilities.

Cyclists rode for over 75 local charities in the Coachella Valley while being serenaded by over 20 bands of all types.

Apparently there were not only jazz, rock and roll, and marching bands, but choirs, and a small symphony orchestra along the routes.

Riders had 5 routes to choose from: 5, 10, 25, 55, and 100 miles.

Here is the Official Website of the Tour de Palm Springs.

Why Bike Alone if You Don't Have To?

Maybe it was because the heads-up came on Friday the 13th, I don't know, but an e-mail from my friend Larry Lagarde has sat in my inbox since October:

Kiril,

As part of my efforts to draw a larger audience in general to bicycling, I'd like to invite you and your readers to visit "Let's Go Bicycling!" a site that's designed to unify bicyclists so more riders can be aware of upcoming cycling events and/or find riding partners for future rides. The site is free to use so I invite you to check it out and share word about it with others.

And here's the url for an event that I just added...

By working together, we can inspire more people to discover the joys of bicycling.

Respectfully,
Larry Lagarde

Urging bicycling for recreation, commuting, health and a better future.

Well, I checked the place out, and it seems to have a few others who have signed on.

Members can add events to a calendar, share photos, and join discussions in a forum.

A pretty cool idea that has potential as more people learn of it. 

Mardi Gras Celebration Bike Ride

PRESS RELEASE - 2/05/07

Saturday, February 24th, MARDI GRAS comes to the Southland...

California’s Southland that is! 

In the picturesque village of Ventura Harbor, a couple of Louisiana transplants are producing a BIG Mardi Gras Celebration at The Greek at Ventura Harbor Village. 

Funds raised will go to NOLA Habitat for Humanity, The Arthritis Foundation and Ventura County’s bicycle paths all through local non-profit, VENTURA VELO.ORG.

The MARDI GRAS CENTURY BIKE RIDE  begins at 7AM, serving traditional King Cake and Coffee.  A HOT Breakfast Buffet will be available at a nominal fee.

Riders, coming from all over the USA, will follow a rigorous 100 mile scenic tour of Ventura, Ojai, Santa Paula, Moorpark, Camarillo, Oxnard and Port Hueneme. 

There is FULL SAG  support, with bike mechanics, roving SAG trucks and several rest stops where volunteers will hand out New Orleans' Po-boy sandwiches!

The Half Century is 60 miles, following a similar path as the Century, but with a shorter return back to The Greek at the Harbor.

The Quarter Century  is an easy 25 miles,  staying in Ventura and is designed to be a fun and safe ride for Families.

The MARDI GRAS Celebration Dinner Party will get underway at 1 PM back at Ventura Harbor’s The GREEK, for riders, guests, sponsors and is open to the public. 

Authentic Cajun music will be provided by the Zydeco Zippers  and DANCERS are WELCOMED!

Beautiful Bellydancers, buckets of Mardi Gras beads plus plenty of PRIZES for Best Costumes and Best Decorated Bicycle will be awarded.

Price includes a special New Orleans All-You-Can-Eat Buffet with authentic GUMBO ! A No-Host Bar will also be available.

Tickets are available for the Mardi Gras Celebration Party  online at ACTIVE.com or by mail.

Prices are $20 ($25 at door), $10 (ages 6-12), Kids 5 and under FREE! Bicyclist Registration is $50 at ACTIVE.com and is $60 at the door. 

All donations are tax deductible. 

Sponsors include: Ventura Harbor Village, The GREEK, The Bike Depot, Ojai Valley Inn, Performance Bikes, Trader Joe’s, Green Thumb, StarBucks, and RoadID.com.

Avid cyclist, Paul Callaway, founded VENTURA VELO after the 2005 storms took out parts of Ventura County bike paths. Distressed about so much damage but no funds for repairs, Callaway started the nonprofit with a handful of bike enthusiasts and a charter to raise funds to help. 

The organization first held a Three Harbors Tour Bike Ride September 2005, just days after Hurricane Katrina hit the Gulf. 

The Tour was a success, funding the group’s startup and attracting over a hundred riders.  The  Organization’s Board has since made contributions to Katrina/Rita victims via Habitat for Humanity, The Arthritis Foundation’s California Coast Classic as well as continuing to improve, develop and maintain Ventura County Bike paths, safety and fellowship.

As the Gulf Coast continues the painful rebuild, Ventura Velo decided the Mardi Gras ride should continue help aid the efforts of New Orleans Area Habitat for Humanity. 

V.V.President and native Louisianian, Liz Bailey explains, “Holding a Mardi Gras Celebration Bike Ride is a great way to get people into the spirit of Mardi Gras.

I’ve heard folks say they’d like to help New Orleans, but don’t know how.  By participating in the VENTURA MARDI GRAS , they will get a REAL taste of Mardi Gras, help Habitat in New Orleans, plus we’ve got a lot of work to do here locally improving bicycle paths and safety. 

It’s a win-win situation, so Yal’l come join us for some great cajun music, food and fun.

For more information on the February 24th 07’MARDI GRAS CENTURY CELEBRATION AND BIKE RIDE go to: www.venturavelo.org,  call 805.815-5258 or write Ventura Velo, P.O. 6101, Ventura CA 93006.

Liz Bailey
President
VENTURAVELO.ORG

Spring is Bike Riding Season in CA.

Beginning in March a long list of Cycling Rides come, and go, thru the summer, and into the fall, here, and no doubt around the nation.

I'm going to be visting some websites for posts, and adding links in the sidebar.

I don't promise anything, but I may be able to attend a couple of these rides, we shall see.

San Juan Cap Bike Giveaway to Celebrate Bikeway Opening

The city of San Juan Capistrano will be celebrating the opening of a new Bike Trail Undercrossing, called the Verada Bikeway Undercrossing, in the city, on October 28th with a family friendly event.

The city is giving away 200 bike helmets to the 1st 200 kids who show up at the event.

The link has been under construction for 7 months, and is an important addition to the city trail system.

There will be a bike ride, and walk, refreshments, and more.

The event is at Descanso Park  ( Next to City Hall, at the end of Paseo Adelanto. ) at 1030 am.

The Trail System in this historic city is extensive, and has its origins in the adoption of both a General Plan Bike Trail System, (paved trails), and a General Plan Hiking and Equestrian Trail System, (unpaved trails), in the late 1970's, and due to the growing popularity of Mountain Biking those folks can now enjoy the unpaved trails if they dare.

You can see a map, with a dencent enlargement link, and learn how to pick up, or order, the paper map, on this city webpage.

OC Wheelmen Amtrak Century turns 32

On Sept 9th one of the most popular ride events in California turns 32.

The Amtrak Century is an event put on by the Orange County Wheelmen Bicycle Club.

The Ride is 100 miles of flat to rolling terrain with a gentle crosswind or tailwind, that begins in Irvine and ends in San Diego, and is well known for being a great 1st time Century ride.

Checking out the website for the ride I am thinking that maybe I should set aside one of my vacation days, next year, to go on this ride. ;-D

Cool Breeze 12 from Ventura to Santa Barbara Aug. 19

Great weather and great views, and the ONLY bike ride that serves popsicles, what more can you ask for?

The Cool Breeze routes follow the coast from Ventura to Santa Barbara. Distances include a Mini-Metric (38miles), Metric (60), Century (102) and Double Metric (124). The weather is generally in the low 70's -- you can't ask for better summer cycling weather! There are lots of great rest stops along the way. Except for the Double Metric, these routes are fairly flat to rolling terrain.

The Mini-Metric is a flat coastal route up to Carpinteria and back route, totally flat.
The Metric  Century, and Century, routes follow the coast to Carpinteria, then turn inland through the scenic orchards and flower ranches of East Santa Barbara County. The Metric will loop back through Montecito and on home, while the Century hooks up with the very challenging Double-Metric Century riders who have ridden the Ventura River Bike Trail, over Casitas Pass and Toro Canyon and connecting with the Century Route.

To learn more, view route slips, and sign up go to this page on the website of The Channel Islands Bicycle Club.

Ride To Remember Coming August 1st 2006

Dear Fellow Cyclists, fellow Bloggers, and fellow Americans, 5 years ago this coming September a tragedy occurred that has changed the way we look at ourselves, and the world around us, and affected how our nation deals with the threat of terrorism that has been directed at Western Civilization for the last 30 years at least.

In case you have forgotten, in case you still have doubts about what the terrorists hope to do again if given the opportunity, or even if you have not forgotten, I want you to watch a short Quicktime video before proceeding further.

It is a powerful message about what happened that awful day, and about the courage of ordinary citizens whose job it is to fight fires, and save lives every day, who suddenly found themselves in a situation no-one ever dreamed could happen, and yet responded heroically not only in New York, as this video shows, but at the Pentagon in Washington DC as well.

The song Cry out to Jesus accompanies the last segment, and reminds the viewer that, for many, Faith was an important part in getting them through that day and the days that followed, and is important in their lives today.

Just watch the Video.

The other day I was approached, in an e-mail, about maybe doing something to help spread the word about a very special cross country Bicycle Ride, now in the early planning stages, from San Francisco to DC, scheduled for August, and early September of this year.

I now, gladly, turn over this post to a Washington DC Firefighter( Pictures can be enlarged ):

September 11, 2001

Just saying the date brings back many images of one of the worst days in America. 

Images of planes flying into buildings, people running for their lives, and smoke on the horizon of two of the greatest cities in the world.  It is hard to forget all of the firefighters who made the supreme sacrifice, and the endless funerals. 

Our lives have been changed forever.

For the firefighters of the District of Columbia who responded to the Pentagon we will never forget that day.  One of our nations toughest buildings was engulfed in flames with people exiting the inferno. 

After hours of rescue attempts, firefighting activities, and hundreds of exhausted firefighters from multiple agencies, 184 people lost their lives.  The District of Columbia Fire and EMS Department spent several days assisting Arlington Fire Department with rescue and fire suppression duties.

Five years later, firefighters from the District of Columbia Christian Firefighters Association decided to sponsor a bicycle ride to honor those who died that day.  We are trying to find firefighters from around this great country to ride in order to honor the names of those who died and the sacrifices they made.

“The Ride to Remember” will begin on August 1, 2006 in San Francisco and end at the Pentagon on September 11 at 9:48 am.  During the 42-day ride we will cover approximately 3,700 miles by using Adventure Cycling’s Western express route, and their trans America route. 

Along the way we will be staying at local firehouses to share our experiences and encourage them to hold local ceremonies to honor the 343 firefighters that died that day as well as all of the civilians.  Most firefighters wear tee shirts that say they will “never forget”, this is our way of making good on that promise.

In addition to seeking firefighters to ride from coast to coast with us, we are also looking for folks to partner with us through financial sponsorship as well as providing logistical support. 

This support can be in the way of providing vehicles and drivers to help set up rest stops as well as nightly stops.  All money collected above that which is needed to  support our bicycle ride will go to a fund to help the families of those who died at the Pentagon and the Washington DC Burn Foundation.  If you would like more information please contact:

Craig W. Duck
495 Century Vista Drive
Arnold, MD 21012
410-647-0853
firequacker621 - at - aol.com

Thank you, Craig, for sending me this announcement.

So what is The District of Columbia Christian Firefighters Association all about?

I decided to check out their website.

As readers of my other Blog know I am not the most religious person on the planet, but do not doubt the good that many who are do in our society, whether of the Evangelical variety, or not, or of the Jewish, Islamic, and other faiths, and do not doubt the value of leading  a moral life, and living in a country with a history steeped in the history of religion affecting the developement of this nation, its laws, and culture.

The 1st thing you notice is that no ABOUT PAGE is really neccessary because the Scripture/Message on the Home Page, and the Testimonies Page speak for themselves.

The DC Group is affiliated with the Fellowship of Christian Firefighters International, and supports its "international non-profit, non-denominational, ministry dedicated to serving the fire service."

The DC Groups EVENTS Page has a statement that adds more to what Craig wrote above about the planned Bike Ride:

The purpose of the September 11th Ride to Remember bike ride is two fold. 

To honor our commitment to never forget those who have given their lives on September 11th 2001, and to encourage firefighters across the country to draw closer to God by having a right relationship with Him. 

As we ride our bicycle across this great country we will be stopping at firehouses to give out Bibles, talk about our experiences on September 11th, and raise support for the victims of the Pentagon families and the Washington DC Burn Foundation. 

Riders need not be members of the District of Columbia Christian Firefighters Association to participate in this ride to remember September 11th 2001.

Also here you can find info about the ride, including the Ride Schedule showing the miles of travel planned for each day, and where in the country that places the ride.

There is a 2 page  Photo Gallery you might find interesting.

There are 4 Quicktime Videos that not only have a religious theme, but showcase the bravery of not just firefighters, but of ordinary citizens as well.

One of those videos you have seen above, and of the rest one called UNREVEALED will really tug at your heart, even if you may not be receptive to its religious message.

Visit the website of the District of Columbia Christian Firefighters Association.

What I hope this post will do is to encourage Bloggers to spread the word, especially in communities that this ride will pass through.

Let your Fire Departments, and local Community Leaders, know about this.

Let your local Cycling Clubs, Cycling Advocacy Groups, and Bike Shops know about this.

Financial, and Logistical Support, of all types, will be needed to pull this off as you can well imagine.

A successful ride, one that will be remembered, will send a powerful message about the faith, courage, and determination of the people of this great nation of ours, of all political stripes, that despite differences of opinion on the Liberation of Afghanistan, and Iraq, and about the future of the continuing War Against Terror....

We REMEMBER...

And will never, ever, FORGET.

Technorati Tags: Christian, Firefighters, Washington, Bike, Bicycle, Cycling, Cyclists, Ride, America, Americans, War, Terror, TerrorismTerrorists, Firehouses, Afghanistan, Iraq, Faith, Courage, Pentagon, Liberation, Advocacy, Clubs

Los Angeles River Ride 6 set for May

The following was sent to me by Janette Hoffman of the Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition:

The LACBC is hosting the 6th Annual Los Angeles River Ride on May 21st at Griffith Park. 

4 great rides to choose from: 70, 45, 15 and a 1mile ride for kids! 

Fully supported, go at your own pace. 

T-shirts, pit stops, refreshments and prizes! 

Go here for more info and to register. 

Discounts for members, and early registrants.

The LACBC is a membership based, non-profit bicycle advocacy organization for in August 1998.

Its Members are wont to volunteering  mucho hours for the cycling related events, and projects.

It gets moolah from numerous sources such as members, donors, foundations, government contracts and from events.

It has taken on the mission of Improving the bicycling environment and quality of life, such as it is, in the smog-bound city of Los Angeles, and the County as a whole.

Every such group of this type has a "VISION".

What's theirs?

The LACBC squints through the haze and sees a Los Angeles County that is a cool place for everyday, year-round tooling arund on your Bicycle.

It sees a future where Bikes are accepted as an important piece in the county transportation system, and the culture, and communities it serves.

It sees people of all ages, abilities, and cultures traveling around as cyclists, pedestrians, and motorists, and doing so safely and simultaneously.

It sees a future where Cyclists enjoy equal access to roads and trails, and share the same rights and responsibilities as other users.

It sees no smog, doesn't hear any excesive noise in streets that can be crossed without getting killed, people are skinnier, and the environment is clean, and sparkling.

Ok, ok, so I'm having a little fun there at the end with their ability to see into the future, but their vision is basically as I lay out, and their Goals are worthy, and their accomplishments are many in the past 7 years.

While the Group still links to Critical Mass I don't hold it against them because the other activities they support, and the links, a book, resources, and news they provide are so much more important, and useful, to the community than that small, misguided, crowd of Los Angeles Bicyclists whose antics won't amount to a Stack of Frijoles in the larger scheme of things.

It's why I have them in my sidebar, and point people looking for opportunities for riding, and activism, in their direction.

The group has come a long way since Ron Milam ( A nice chap I talked with a few times when I was briefly a member way back at the turn of the century ) was at the helm, and has much to be proud of.

I just hope that, since I moved from Pomona, they finally got people out in the very east end of the county to join, and  who have the time to pass out the newsletter in my stead. ;-D

Technorati Tags: LACBC, Bicycle, Bicycling, Bicyclists, Cyclists, Coalition, Activism, Community, Resources, Pedestrians

Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa 2006 Announced

The Des Moines Register's 34th Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa ( RAGBRAI ) isn't until July, but January is when the route is announced, and registration hits full stride.

Days, hours, minutes and seconds can't tick down quickly enough for some local bicyclists as the starting date for the Register's Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa looms.

Regularly announced in January, finding out the route for the seven-day trip from the Missouri River to the Mississippi River is like a holiday to some riders.

"This is a post-Christmas gift, seeing what the route is going to be. I wait for it like a little kid," Steve Poggenpohl said.

Scheduled July 23 to July 29, Coralville is slated as the final overnight town -- the location where about 10,000 cyclists plus support teams will camp.

444  miles? WOW!

Full Story:

IOWA CITY PRESS-CITIZEN ( 1/30 ): RAGBRAI excites local bicycling enthusiasts by Brian Morelli.

DEADLINE -- April 1: Register for the RAGBRAI lottery here.

History of the previous rides.

Gene Cerise Memorial Events in Cambria, Ca.

I was recently notified of the following upcoming event:

The 5th Annual Gene Cerise Memorial Country Coast Classic Bike Ride will be
held June 18, 2005 in Cambria, California on the central coast.

It will include 25, 50 and 100 mile routes, a delicious BBQ of salmon or chicken, live music and special activities for kids ages 5-12.

Riders on the longer route will have start times at 7AM and 8AM.
Everyone is invited to join in the fun and the BBQ and welcome back riders
from 11:00 am till 3pm.

Registration forms, BBQ tickets and additional information are available online at  the Country Coast Classic  website.

Proceeds from this event will benefit the youth programs at the Community Center of Cambria.

Contact Person: Amanda Rice
Event Coordinator
5th Annual Gene Cerise Memorial Country Coast Classic Bike Ride
927-7776 927-5653 (fax)

Sounds like a fun day for all!

SoCal Cycling Events coming fast, and furious

There are numerous Cycling Tour, Family Fun Ride, and road cycling, events coming up in the next few weeks, and months, in Southern California.

Solvang Spring Tour and Solvang Double Century: These March events of 50 to 300 miles are quite popular.

Tour de Sewer: Now in its 20th year this ride, sponsored by The Bell Gardens Lions Club, every March, has rides of 15, 30, and 62 miles.

Tour de OC: An event in my own backyard now in its 11th year. The April event has rides of 25, 50, and 100 miles. Raises money for Charity.

Ride for Aids: San Diego fun rides of 10, 25, or 50 miles in April.

City of Angels Fun Ride: Annual 38 mile urban ride around Los Angeles in conjunction with the Southern Ca. Bike Expo in April.

Mulholland Challenge: Santa Monica Mountains, Calabassas, and Malibu. Half Century, Metric Century, or Century, pick yer poison in May!

Norwalk Spring Spokes Tour: This May event travels around portions of LA County and the OC, in your choice of 15, 25, or 63 mile routes. The city website has info for this Norwalk Arts and Sports Foundation event.

Cruisin' the Conejo: This May event in the Thousand Oaks area, is in its 21st year. Ride options include 21, 35, 62, 68, and 101 miles.

47th Annual LA Wheelmen Grand Tour: This June event, based out of Malibu, is special, and extremely challenging, which ever route you choose. 120, 200, 300, and 400 mile routes!

Cross Country rider looking for advice

This just in:

Name: Chris DeLorenzo
Email Address: chris@rideforwisheswny.com
Ride Blog: rideforwisheswny.com


This summer, July 16th thru August 24th, I'll be making a bike ride across
America. I'll be departing from Battery Park in Manhattan, NYC and
finishing the ride at the Santa Monica Pier in Los Angeles. The ride is to
benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation and through our event, Ride for Wishes
2005, we hope to raise $100,000. When we reach that goal, we'll be able to
grant the wishes of 23 children suffering with life-threatening medical
conditions...... something that I'm extremely excited about.

I'm having a difficult time planning the route of the trip. I've tried
Mappoint software, but it's really designed for car travel, and didn't have
a lot of success with it.  I've checked out the Adveture Cycling website as
many people have directed me there, and they do have maps for many bike
routes, but the only route that goes entirely across America is from
Virginia to Oregon, I believe....... that's not even close to my start and
end points.  They have many shorter routes, but again even if I try to
patch a few of them together, they really won't be of great help to me.
I'd still wind up with huge holes in the route all over the place. I'd
welcome any help or sugestions.  Thanks.

Chris has started a Blog about his adventure, and If anyone can help him with his planning, I'm sure he'd appreciate it.

For my part I'm adding his blog to the Blogroll, and will encourage him to check out some of the sites I've collected, and will be adding here for all the 5O states..

Monterey, Ca.: Sea Otter Classic 2005

California Road Cyclists, up for adventure, should consider the famous 4 day racing, and Expo, event known as the Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, Ca.

As the Press Release says:

MONTEREY, Calif. - The Sea Otter Classic is the most celebrated cycling festival in North America. Known throughout the cycling world as the grand season opener, the 15th annual Sea Otter Classic will be held April 14-17, 2005 at the Laguna Seca Recreation Area, Monterey, California, USA.

Nearly 10,000 professional and amateur athletes and over 50,000 spectators will attend the four-day festival. The outdoor cycling tradeshow will host over 250 vendors showcasing the latest trends and technologies in road cycling, mountain biking and recreational products and services. Over 200 international media representatives will report on the competitive action...

The Sea Otter offers fun and excitement for all family members. A kid's bike rodeo, Sea Otter Egg Hunt, inflatable games, and much more are complimentary to children ages 12 and under.

It's the "much more" that I want to spotlight:

In addition to the Expo, there are 2 Road Bike Tours.

1 of 75 miles, and 1 of 100 miles.

The 2005 Sea Otter Classic Road Bike Tours will start at day break on Laguna Seca Raceway. Participants will have two ride options of 75 and 100 miles. The 75-mile ride follows the Salinas Valley over flat and rolling terrain, and finishes with a short but challenging climb home to the Sea Otter Classic venue at Laguna Seca Recreation Area. The century tour loops south towards the Ventana Wliderness, covering 100 miles and 6000 feet of climbing, as it passes through Salinas and Carmel Valleys. 100-mile riders should come prepared as your day finishes with the tough Laureles Grade and a finishing climb into Laguna Seca Recreation Area. All riders will enjoy well-appointed rest stops and SAG support, a hearty end-of-ride BBQ, and a raffle loaded with prizes. Top pro athletes and coaches will be riding along offering riding tips to all participants.

Sea Otter Home Page.

Road Tour info.

Course maps will soon be available on the site as well.

Obligatory Tour de France Post

The Biggest event in Bicycle Racing is set to begin over the weekend & Sacramento Bee Columnist James Raia is going to be providing daily reports in his e-mail Newsletter, THE TOUR DE FRANCE TIMES.

Mr. Raia will also be providing radio reports. Capital Public Radio (CPR) in Sacramento and its varied Northern California and Nevada affiliates as well as National Public Radio (NPR) will broadcast individual segments.

For those so inclined the first CPR and NPR reports can be heard on Friday, July 2. CPR reports will also be broadcast July 9, 16 and 23. Additional NPR reports will be heard periodically throughout the event on Morning Edition.

Each issue of the Newsletter can also be read on his website.

June 21 Special Issue.

June 29 Special Issue

Venture North Team Alive and Well

A month ago I wrote about my brief encounter with a group of bicyclists on a journey, and a mission, and the organization they belong to: Venturing Forth for a Worthy Cause.

Well, the team has begun its journal, with the earliest entry apparently June 6th.

Through rain, injury, brief separation, and illness, the team has shown a strength, and a sense of purpose powered by their faith in God as practiced through their Christian faith.

If you like Cycling adventure stories then this is an interesting one regardless of your faith, or lack of any such thing.

The funds the team is raising are for a good cause, and as they have decided to extend their journey to Vancouver, British Columbia, they are an inspiration to cyclists everywhere.

There is also a South Team that began a journey from Phoenix to Banff, Canada on May 19th.

The only entry, so far, in their Journal (June 13th) is not by a member of the team and has this to say about what they have faced:

They decided to bike in the U.S. because of some unforseen safety issues. On the Great Divide trip, they have faced 100+ degree weather, desert, strong winds, 11 thousand foot mountain passes, and a team member dropping out. Jesse and Brad continued to bike through it all. So far the team has rolled through Arizona, New Mexico, Colorado and parts of Wyoming. They are currently in Yellowstone National Park and plan to finish in Banff, Canada.

The 2 teams will apparently join together to go on to Panama later in the summer.

I'd like to say to them all:

Happy Trails, and good luck!

Journal North

Journal South

Venturing Forth for a Worthy Cause

When I took my ride from San Clemente to Oceanside, the other day, I came upon a group of riders who DID get permission to ride through Camp Pendleton itself that day.

7 riders ( 5 guys, 2 gals ) on a cross country trip from San Diego to Alaska on a ride preparing them for the much longer journey they are going to undertake later this summer.

These people belong to an organization called VENTURE.

It is "an adventure-mentoring organization using outdoor expeditions to benefit the world and discover the soul."

The team leader Jimmy Papia , and Stephanie Falk took a few minutes to talk with me, and they told me how they got permission to ride through the base apparently believing the only other option was to go all the way around somehow, instead of up the freeway.

I passed out some of my cards, and wished them well.

This summer these young people will bicycle from Alaska to Panama in six weeks to raise $30,000 for Cry Africa, an organization committed to fighting AIDS and spreading the gospel in Africa.

The website for the organization is here: VENTURE.

On this page are links to an info page about the organization, a link to the list of team members, and a link to a page which will house the content of their journal about their journey after it begins.

I wish them well, and will check the journal over the summer to see how they are doing.

Bicycling in the Buff

If, on June 12, 2004, you are out and about and happen to notice bicyclists in their Birthday Suits, by the dozen, or the hundreds, don't freak out.

There's apparently a method to this madness. :-)

Something called the 3rd Annual World Naked Bike Ride.

The Blurbs on the Official Website says:

Protest Oil dependency, and celebrate the power, and individuality of our bodies. NAKED BICYCLE PEOPLE POWER! Consider yourself a radical protestor who will do almost anything to show your disdain for our dependency on oil? Want to make a statement about how e should reacquaint ourselves with our own bodies....

Um, yes.... YOU first, Kimo Sabe. :-)

If I have that day off I'll go to Los Angeles to report on these nimrods getting arrested for indecent exposure, and humiliation of a Bicycle in a public place.

This world wide spectacle is being organized, and endorsed by a wide variety of Liberal, and Left Leaning causes including anarchists in the Bicycle Activism Movement such as Critical Mass, and many non-bicyling related organizations.

The fact that Critical Mass, a supposedly LEADERLESS MOVEMENT is a major world wide player in this is a HUGE Red Flag that no Bicyclist should ignore.

As I've written about before, riding with these people is often an invitation to trouble, and getting yourself arrested.

Why else would there be a need to sell T-Shirts to raise money for a WNBR LEGAL DEFENSE FUND?

Just click on all the links the site provides to learn about event supporters.

All sorts of Left Leaning, print, and electronic media have written about this event, including blogs.

Participating Countries & Cities include

Brasil (Brazil)

Canada: Montreal, Toronto, Vancouver, & Victoria.

Belgium, Germany, Spain, United Kingdom--London.

New Zealand: Christchurch.

United States: Asheville (NC), Austin, Boulder (CO), Burlington (VT), Chicago, Los Angeles, Portland, San Francisco, Seattle.

The site has organizing tips, , and sign up links, tips on what to wear (as little or as much as you want ), ideas on what to ride ( including rollerblades, and skateboards), a cycling advocacy page of links, and a page on the history of Naked Cycling.

World Naked Bike Ride