+1 for 'nother's bridge recommendation for photographers. (I used to write and photograph for a magazine dedicated to inline skating.) There is no bad shot which includes the bridge. The design of this suspension bridge means that an arc is built into it. If you can get a position near the SF end, you'll have your choice of close and distant shots. (I'll be near the SF end, cheering the Jelly Belly team. Seems only fair since I'll be wearing Bernard van Ulden's old cap and gloves.)
The lower portion of bending/twisting downhills also works well. Please check the detailed map link in 'nother's first post.
Concentrating on your subject and pressing the button whenever you feel something can absorb your entire attention. If you take a break from being a photographer, please cheer the riders. They can hear it.
Last edited by FogVilleLad; 02-11-09 at 05:22 PM.