Midland
08-23-09, 11:41 PM
20 miles, up & over Pigfarm and back to a friends house-trying out my new pedals and shoes.
Northern California - weekend ride reports - where'd ya ride?
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View Full Version : weekend ride reports - where'd ya ride?
Red Rider
08-23-09, 11:46 PM
I did this same loop twice on Friday. First lap was more tempo with a little hurt, then lap 2 the gloves came off. My friend and I jumped in on a fast paceline on the second lap, just after the climb. Great race simulation, these guys (and gals) were out to hurt one another. My legs are still sore. :D
Nice to see some of you are getting the dirty bikes out. Do I hear a Norcal mtb Ride? :innocent:
I bought some support pantyhose :eek: because I don't want to spend $100 on compression tight. Legs hurt and this better help. I hate wearing hose anytime, let alone in summer. Like wearing sausage casings.
Good luck, Rydadday, hope you nail it!
Nice to see some of you are getting the dirty bikes out. Do I hear a Norcal mtb Ride? :innocent:
I bought some support pantyhose :eek: because I don't want to spend $100 on compression tight. Legs hurt and this better help. I hate wearing hose anytime, let alone in summer. Like wearing sausage casings.
Good luck, Rydadday, hope you nail it!
jeffy1021
08-24-09, 12:04 AM
Did about 35 miles with a friend starting from the CV park and ride lot going out to Pleasanton, down Foothill Rd to 84, climbed Palomares Rd and looped back to CV.
rydaddy
08-24-09, 09:03 AM
Good luck, Rydadday, hope you nail it!
Thanks! Hopefully I'll have some helpers to chase down those skinny climbers. :lol:
Good luck to you too! :thumb:
Thanks! Hopefully I'll have some helpers to chase down those skinny climbers. :lol:
Good luck to you too! :thumb:
bigbossman
08-25-09, 12:47 PM
I spent the last weekend with my family in the Lake Tahoe region, helping Bikingshearer and his fiancée adjust to his passage into old age.
Nothing too special, just a 52 mile loop up and over Donner Summit and Brockway Pass to the north shore of Lake Tahoe and back to Truckee. 52 miles, half a pizza, and about 3,000' feet of climbing in ho-hum surroundings.
Rich was gonna quit at about 35 miles or so, but I convinced him to ride his age. I understood his reluctance though, as his age is waaaaaaaaaaay past 35 (see last paragraph). He moaned about it for a short while, but in the end acquiesced to the obvious wisdom of my plan.
A few pics:
From the top of Donner Summit, looking down Hwy 40 and the pending descent into Donner Lake:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Tahoe-Donner/donnerlake-1.jpg
Looking back up to Donner Summit:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Tahoe-Donner/donnersummit-1.jpg
Old Hwy 40 bridge:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Tahoe-Donner/hwy40bridge-2.jpg
Sailboat riding anchor in Lake Tahoe:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Tahoe-Donner/sailboat.jpg
North shore of Tahoe, looking south to the other side:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Tahoe-Donner/tahoe.jpg
Nothing too special, just a 52 mile loop up and over Donner Summit and Brockway Pass to the north shore of Lake Tahoe and back to Truckee. 52 miles, half a pizza, and about 3,000' feet of climbing in ho-hum surroundings.
Rich was gonna quit at about 35 miles or so, but I convinced him to ride his age. I understood his reluctance though, as his age is waaaaaaaaaaay past 35 (see last paragraph). He moaned about it for a short while, but in the end acquiesced to the obvious wisdom of my plan.
A few pics:
From the top of Donner Summit, looking down Hwy 40 and the pending descent into Donner Lake:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Tahoe-Donner/donnerlake-1.jpg
Looking back up to Donner Summit:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Tahoe-Donner/donnersummit-1.jpg
Old Hwy 40 bridge:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Tahoe-Donner/hwy40bridge-2.jpg
Sailboat riding anchor in Lake Tahoe:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Tahoe-Donner/sailboat.jpg
North shore of Tahoe, looking south to the other side:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Tahoe-Donner/tahoe.jpg
Beaker
08-25-09, 10:24 PM
Fantastic pictures, as always, bigbossman.
Not strictly the weekend, but I've had a couple of days off so went for a shortish 35mile, 4400ft ride to shake down my reinstalled 12-27. Of note, I hit a pothole in the shade on the lower stretch of Claremont and flatted. Took some time to check the tire and it was completely fine, the force of the impact put a small split in the tube. I also made it up Vollmer peak for the first time - fantastic panoramic views from the highest point in the Berkeley Hills - the view across Diablo and the rest of the east bay is breathtaking. Worth the brief pain to get there. Finished with a ride down Redwood, and the backside of Pinehurst. Always good for the soul.
Not strictly the weekend, but I've had a couple of days off so went for a shortish 35mile, 4400ft ride to shake down my reinstalled 12-27. Of note, I hit a pothole in the shade on the lower stretch of Claremont and flatted. Took some time to check the tire and it was completely fine, the force of the impact put a small split in the tube. I also made it up Vollmer peak for the first time - fantastic panoramic views from the highest point in the Berkeley Hills - the view across Diablo and the rest of the east bay is breathtaking. Worth the brief pain to get there. Finished with a ride down Redwood, and the backside of Pinehurst. Always good for the soul.
bikingshearer
08-26-09, 01:18 AM
Rich was gonna quit at about 35 miles or so, . . .
. . . mainly because he was exhausted from dragging bigbossman's sorry backside up Brockway Summit with a towrope. :innocent:
Seriously, though, we both ascended that climb like dead dogs, the only difference being that my case of rigor mortis was slightly - and I emphasize "slightly" - less advanced that John's. Something was making him feel like Keith Moon on speed was pounding on the inside of his head on the climb, and this resulted in my blistering 4 to 5 mph uphill speed leaving him in the dust. He did recover over pizza faster than I did, though, and thus was able to counteract my initial instinct to call the ladies to pick us up, hitch a ride, or take up permanent residence at the pizza place - anything to avoid getting back on the bike.
But those last 15 or so miles from Tahoe City to Truckee were a blast. Nothing like maintaining a pace between 16 and 25 mph with negligible effort to end a ride. :thumb:
A truly fine day.
. . . mainly because he was exhausted from dragging bigbossman's sorry backside up Brockway Summit with a towrope. :innocent:
Seriously, though, we both ascended that climb like dead dogs, the only difference being that my case of rigor mortis was slightly - and I emphasize "slightly" - less advanced that John's. Something was making him feel like Keith Moon on speed was pounding on the inside of his head on the climb, and this resulted in my blistering 4 to 5 mph uphill speed leaving him in the dust. He did recover over pizza faster than I did, though, and thus was able to counteract my initial instinct to call the ladies to pick us up, hitch a ride, or take up permanent residence at the pizza place - anything to avoid getting back on the bike.
But those last 15 or so miles from Tahoe City to Truckee were a blast. Nothing like maintaining a pace between 16 and 25 mph with negligible effort to end a ride. :thumb:
A truly fine day.
subframe
08-29-09, 10:41 PM
45 miles, started out with the Headlands loop, then decided to tack on some more miles, so it was on to Mill Valley, then up to Panoramic Highway, and back.
On the hill up out of Sausalito on the way back, in the cut just before the freeway offramp and underpass, I think I experienced the highest temperature I've ever felt. My skin was crawling. wow.
But a great ride nonetheless. The final section of climb up edgewood was fun.
http://www.mapmyride.com/route/us/california/san+francisco/156125160704715404
On the hill up out of Sausalito on the way back, in the cut just before the freeway offramp and underpass, I think I experienced the highest temperature I've ever felt. My skin was crawling. wow.
But a great ride nonetheless. The final section of climb up edgewood was fun.
http://www.mapmyride.com/route/us/california/san+francisco/156125160704715404
msincredible
08-29-09, 11:38 PM
Had a unicycling lesson from a friend today, then we hit Old Haul Road, she on her MUni and me on my MTB. :thumb:
gpelpel
08-30-09, 12:00 AM
First couple of rides on the tandem.
First the maiden ride last evening on the Iron Horse trail from Walnut Creek to San Ramon and back (15 miles). It turned out that handling the bike was easier than I expected. I was a bit arm stiff but loosened up at the ride progressed. The toughest was communicating with my wife (stoker). Amazing how things we do on the single bikes are like reflexes, we don't think about them just react according to conditions. On a tandem as the two cranksets are tight all intentions need to be communicated to the stoker before actuating them. My stoker quickly made me realize that I was sending the instructions after the fact, ooops. We ended the ride in the night with lights on, temperature was nice. Overall a perfect 15 miles trainer.
Today was a more ambitious ride. Leaving from home in Lafayette, climbing a steep 15% section (only 200 yards) before a steep 1 mile downhill and ride to the Orinda farmer's market for some shopping. We installed a small cooler on the rack to make sure the tomatoes would come back home fresher than us. After the market I proposed an extended loop thru Moraga. She was all for it so we went south on Moraga Way, stopped for some pear picking, and came back thru St. Mary's Road with a loop around the SMC campus. We pushed the bike up our hill though to end the trip; 18 miles total.
Our teamwork got better, only problem was we couldn't get the front derailleur to engage the granny ring when needed.
First tandem impressions: Very pleased so far (yes, both of us). It's really team work and a great equalizer. If one rider wants to push harder the other doesn't have to push on the pedals, following the cadence is enough. However if one rider is not used to high cadence the fast spinner has to slow down otherwise feet get off the pedals (we don't have clipless pedals yet). Communicating is the most important skill to master, easier said than done and very tough with a lot of background traffic noise. I am sure time will help each of us get a feel on how the other work. In a couple of rides we have our starts and stops procedure working pretty good, out of the saddle phases will take some time to master tough.
First the maiden ride last evening on the Iron Horse trail from Walnut Creek to San Ramon and back (15 miles). It turned out that handling the bike was easier than I expected. I was a bit arm stiff but loosened up at the ride progressed. The toughest was communicating with my wife (stoker). Amazing how things we do on the single bikes are like reflexes, we don't think about them just react according to conditions. On a tandem as the two cranksets are tight all intentions need to be communicated to the stoker before actuating them. My stoker quickly made me realize that I was sending the instructions after the fact, ooops. We ended the ride in the night with lights on, temperature was nice. Overall a perfect 15 miles trainer.
Today was a more ambitious ride. Leaving from home in Lafayette, climbing a steep 15% section (only 200 yards) before a steep 1 mile downhill and ride to the Orinda farmer's market for some shopping. We installed a small cooler on the rack to make sure the tomatoes would come back home fresher than us. After the market I proposed an extended loop thru Moraga. She was all for it so we went south on Moraga Way, stopped for some pear picking, and came back thru St. Mary's Road with a loop around the SMC campus. We pushed the bike up our hill though to end the trip; 18 miles total.
Our teamwork got better, only problem was we couldn't get the front derailleur to engage the granny ring when needed.
First tandem impressions: Very pleased so far (yes, both of us). It's really team work and a great equalizer. If one rider wants to push harder the other doesn't have to push on the pedals, following the cadence is enough. However if one rider is not used to high cadence the fast spinner has to slow down otherwise feet get off the pedals (we don't have clipless pedals yet). Communicating is the most important skill to master, easier said than done and very tough with a lot of background traffic noise. I am sure time will help each of us get a feel on how the other work. In a couple of rides we have our starts and stops procedure working pretty good, out of the saddle phases will take some time to master tough.
UmneyDurak
08-30-09, 12:06 AM
Just did a 3 hour loop from SC that involved climbing Kings Mountain and down 84. I left late so didn't see too many cyclists, but I did see a guy in FULL world champion kit on a Cervello with world champion decals going at an awesome speed of a snail (so slightly slower then me). :roflmao:
prathmann
08-30-09, 12:28 AM
Rode up to Benicia for the opening ceremony of the bike/ped trail on the bridge and then completed the new loop that's possible by heading over to Vallejo and crossing the Zampa (I-80) bridge as well. Including the ride to and from the loop from San Ramon it amounted to about 75 miles and the heat was definitely a factor on the way back. Very nice paths across the bridges and I recommend this loop as a very scenic and pleasant ride. Minimum loop distance is about 25 miles and there are lots of options for extending it.
The route and some pictures I took can be seen at:
http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=334766
The route and some pictures I took can be seen at:
http://www.everytrail.com/view_trip.php?trip_id=334766
pacificaslim
08-30-09, 01:24 PM
I did something a bit unusual this weekend. Well, it was my usual fireroad type terrain on my cross bike but this time I rode on the normally off-limits trail system on the western ridge of the Crystal Springs and San Andreas Reservoir watershed. It was a guided ride and we had to keep stopping for the slower riders but the scenery was great, only 14 people on the ride, and there were quite a few climbs that got me down into the granny ring: and on the way back down them, it was quite exciting hitting max 31 mph on soft dirt, gravely fire roads on narrow cyclocross tires (everyone else was on mountain bikes). I was sliding all over on the turns but loved every minute of it!
If anyone is interested in checking out these rides, go to http://sfwater.org/msc_main.cfm/MC_ID/20/MSC_ID/176 and sign up!
If anyone is interested in checking out these rides, go to http://sfwater.org/msc_main.cfm/MC_ID/20/MSC_ID/176 and sign up!
RoboCheme
08-30-09, 01:27 PM
I decided to do one of the Berkeley Hills Death rides since it's in my backyard. It was up El Toyonal and Lomas Contandas from Orinda. I struggled, but I made it without stopping. A lot 15-18% grades. Fortunately, it was on the cool side, unlike yesterday.
Dion Rides
08-30-09, 04:51 PM
Aug. 29th:
My bro and I went up and through Wilder Ranch, first getting around a group of cows, hopping a gate, climbing through this woodsy trail, popping us out and climbing up Long Meadow Trail to get to the singletracks in UCSC. It was pretty packed in the woods, and overall climbing elevation is about 1200ft. I think we covered about 20+ miles, including riding the asphalt to get to the where we needed to go. 20 mi. may not seem like much, but negotiating singletracks with all the logs, roots, rocks, jumps, kickers, etc. it really kicks you in the rear.
http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs185.snc1/6168_1150661139830_1626676832_380414_5034800_n.jpg
A blurry photo of a log crossing across a 10 ft. drop onto jagged rocks. Needless to say, I took the pu$$y way around.
Aug. 30th (today):
Having beat myself up on yesterday's ride, I decided to take an "easier" (yeah right) approach and climb Hicks Rd. to Mt. Uhmunum with my MTB. Why the MTB? Because I was almost positive that there is a dirt trail that descends back to the valley. All that sweat drenched climbing, running out of food and water in the baking sun was not worth the disappointment of what MTB trails were offered. I was exhausted after climbing that steep mountain - all I wanted was a cool single track to drop into and down to the valley. Unfortunately, there is nothing but boring, rocky fire roads. I guess there was something to it since was able to climb up 2160ft. in about 4.1 mi. (according to Daily Peleton) - but I was looking forward to rewarding that climb with some off road action. Oh well. I descended via Hicks, stopped at the parkng lot of Quicksilver Mines and refilled my hyration pack. I'm buying a 100oz. pack this week.
http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs165.snc1/6168_1150665939950_1626676832_380432_2322326_n.jpg
At the top of Hicks looking out toward the rest of my climb - Uhmunum.
http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs185.snc1/6168_1150666619967_1626676832_380434_6094353_n.jpg
Top of Uhmunum - time to go off road!
http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs185.snc1/6168_1150667819997_1626676832_380435_4460059_n.jpg
Took the fire road to the very tippy top which overlooked the enitre valley.
Now I know why I love my XC bike so much - I can take that thing anywhere: asphalt, fireroads, singletracks, dirt, mud, goop, etc. The titanium is a great plus, too as it's pretty light for a MTB and it makes climbing for a sucky climber like me able to do big hills like Hicks/Uhmunum.
My bro and I went up and through Wilder Ranch, first getting around a group of cows, hopping a gate, climbing through this woodsy trail, popping us out and climbing up Long Meadow Trail to get to the singletracks in UCSC. It was pretty packed in the woods, and overall climbing elevation is about 1200ft. I think we covered about 20+ miles, including riding the asphalt to get to the where we needed to go. 20 mi. may not seem like much, but negotiating singletracks with all the logs, roots, rocks, jumps, kickers, etc. it really kicks you in the rear.
http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs185.snc1/6168_1150661139830_1626676832_380414_5034800_n.jpg
A blurry photo of a log crossing across a 10 ft. drop onto jagged rocks. Needless to say, I took the pu$$y way around.
Aug. 30th (today):
Having beat myself up on yesterday's ride, I decided to take an "easier" (yeah right) approach and climb Hicks Rd. to Mt. Uhmunum with my MTB. Why the MTB? Because I was almost positive that there is a dirt trail that descends back to the valley. All that sweat drenched climbing, running out of food and water in the baking sun was not worth the disappointment of what MTB trails were offered. I was exhausted after climbing that steep mountain - all I wanted was a cool single track to drop into and down to the valley. Unfortunately, there is nothing but boring, rocky fire roads. I guess there was something to it since was able to climb up 2160ft. in about 4.1 mi. (according to Daily Peleton) - but I was looking forward to rewarding that climb with some off road action. Oh well. I descended via Hicks, stopped at the parkng lot of Quicksilver Mines and refilled my hyration pack. I'm buying a 100oz. pack this week.
http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs165.snc1/6168_1150665939950_1626676832_380432_2322326_n.jpg
At the top of Hicks looking out toward the rest of my climb - Uhmunum.
http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs185.snc1/6168_1150666619967_1626676832_380434_6094353_n.jpg
Top of Uhmunum - time to go off road!
http://hphotos-snc1.fbcdn.net/hs185.snc1/6168_1150667819997_1626676832_380435_4460059_n.jpg
Took the fire road to the very tippy top which overlooked the enitre valley.
Now I know why I love my XC bike so much - I can take that thing anywhere: asphalt, fireroads, singletracks, dirt, mud, goop, etc. The titanium is a great plus, too as it's pretty light for a MTB and it makes climbing for a sucky climber like me able to do big hills like Hicks/Uhmunum.
uspspro
08-30-09, 06:32 PM
Met up with Ramon, NY Chris and Donald at Gunn HS in Palo Alto. I rode in 16 miles from San Mateo.
We rode up Page Mill just in time to meet up with Paula's group doing the Santa Cruz Mtns ride. We chatted for a while, while they waited for all their riders. It was nice to catch up with everyone.
However, we did not join their ride since it would have been 120+ miles for us so, we decided to do our own coastside ride. Donald split off at this point and did a shorter Peninsula loop.
So NY Chris, Ramon and myself took off on our own ride. Basically Up Page Mill, down W Alpine, Haskins, Pescadero, Stage/1, up Tunitas, down Kings, back home since all 3 of us rode from home.
http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=79106
85 miles, 7500 ft.
We rode up Page Mill just in time to meet up with Paula's group doing the Santa Cruz Mtns ride. We chatted for a while, while they waited for all their riders. It was nice to catch up with everyone.
However, we did not join their ride since it would have been 120+ miles for us so, we decided to do our own coastside ride. Donald split off at this point and did a shorter Peninsula loop.
So NY Chris, Ramon and myself took off on our own ride. Basically Up Page Mill, down W Alpine, Haskins, Pescadero, Stage/1, up Tunitas, down Kings, back home since all 3 of us rode from home.
http://bikeroutetoaster.com/Course.aspx?course=79106
85 miles, 7500 ft.
toytech
08-30-09, 06:36 PM
Wife and I took out new (to us) tandem from the San Leandro Marina to the San Mateo bridge on the shoreline trail. The Schwinn Duo sport soaked up all the inappropriate for a road bike terrain, and asked for more. Lot's of fun too as it was our first ever ride on a tandem. We are hooked. We will try more challenging rides as our endurance allows, and we HTFU :D.
Red Rider
08-30-09, 07:06 PM
Yesterday: Winters Road Race. Going great until mile 27 (of 48) when I flatted. :( So it goes.
Today: Volunteer course marshal at the Vacaville Gran Prix crit. Watch every race. Good fun, easily 16* cooler than yesterday, but with a wind that added more suffering. :innocent:
Today: Volunteer course marshal at the Vacaville Gran Prix crit. Watch every race. Good fun, easily 16* cooler than yesterday, but with a wind that added more suffering. :innocent:
spingineer
08-30-09, 08:59 PM
Was on call this weekend, so that limited myself to short rides. I was able to find a route that got me < 1000 feet climbing and 20 miles, up Mora in Los Altos Hills, as long as I got out the house by 6 pm. Got back just before dark ... perfect.
jsmil4901
08-31-09, 08:05 AM
I went up Bohlman Rd for the first time. I got to the junction of On Orbit and went a little further and turned around. How much further is the climb on On Orbit?
uspspro
08-31-09, 08:49 AM
I went up Bohlman Rd for the first time. I got to the junction of On Orbit and went a little further and turned around. How much further is the climb on On Orbit?
On Orbit is the hard part. There is a really steep section just before Apollo Heights, then a bit more to the true summit, but it's easier after that bit.
On Orbit is the hard part. There is a really steep section just before Apollo Heights, then a bit more to the true summit, but it's easier after that bit.
silentben
08-31-09, 10:01 AM
I didn't ride this weekend at all. Actually I went out on Lake Vasona in a pedal boat but I don't think that counts.
This morning I extended my 2 mile commute into a 59 miler. I'm hoping to get another 41 miles after work and thus get my century for the month of August.
This morning I extended my 2 mile commute into a 59 miler. I'm hoping to get another 41 miles after work and thus get my century for the month of August.
bikingshearer
08-31-09, 10:50 AM
A wedding in San Diego plus work that had to get done means I got nuthin'. :(
1jacktripper
08-31-09, 11:44 AM
I rode up OLH and Kings on Saturday as a second knee-test ride. It felt good. Struck up a conversation with a Karen from Palo Alto on OLH and saw her again as I was climbing up Kings while she was descending. It was a hot day, but I was giddy about the absence of knee-kink, so much so that at the top of Kings I entertained the idea of descending and climbing back up Tunitas. Vetoed that one really quickly when I heard grumbles in my stomach. Rode down aggressive on Kings and fishtailed a bit. Promptly I headed straight for lunch (sweaty kits be damned) and re-played the ride over minestrone zuppa and gamberetti linguini.
caloso
08-31-09, 12:15 PM
I was up in Tahoe City for a family weekend. I mostly rode down to the lake with the kids, but managed to get away Sunday morning for a nice solo ride: TC to Kings Beach, up and over Brockway to Northstar and back. It's steep but I was pleased that I was able to do it without too much trouble on a 39x25 low gear. Bodes well for Mt. Diablo in October.
bigbossman
08-31-09, 01:09 PM
I was up in Tahoe City for a family weekend. I mostly rode down to the lake with the kids, but managed to get away Sunday morning for a nice solo ride: TC to Kings Beach, up and over Brockway to Northstar and back. It's steep but I was pleased that I was able to do it without too much trouble on a 39x25 low gear. Bodes well for Mt. Diablo in October.
I rode from Truckee to King's Beach via Brockway Summit a couple of weeks ago. I thought it was horrible - constant fast traffic and marginal space to ride, especially on the passing lane stretch. The constant road noise coupled with the elevation and sucking in all that exhaust gave me a terrific headache.
Oh, yeah - I thought it was steep, too. :)
I rode from Truckee to King's Beach via Brockway Summit a couple of weeks ago. I thought it was horrible - constant fast traffic and marginal space to ride, especially on the passing lane stretch. The constant road noise coupled with the elevation and sucking in all that exhaust gave me a terrific headache.
Oh, yeah - I thought it was steep, too. :)
pelikan
08-31-09, 01:33 PM
Friday PM: Brisbane Crit Course for some drills, wasn't windy.
Saturday: PV Ride w/BlastRadius among others.
Sunday: The Loop with a blond female teammate. I've never seen more cyclists wave in my life. Felt like I was riding with Lance.
Saturday: PV Ride w/BlastRadius among others.
Sunday: The Loop with a blond female teammate. I've never seen more cyclists wave in my life. Felt like I was riding with Lance.
BlastRadius
08-31-09, 02:46 PM
Friday PM: Brisbane Crit Course for some drills, wasn't windy.
Saturday: PV Ride w/BlastRadius among others.
Sunday: The Loop with a blond female teammate. I've never seen more cyclists wave in my life. Felt like I was riding with Lance.
They were waving at your blond female teammate. ;) :roflmao2:
Saturday: PV Ride w/BlastRadius among others.
Sunday: The Loop with a blond female teammate. I've never seen more cyclists wave in my life. Felt like I was riding with Lance.
They were waving at your blond female teammate. ;) :roflmao2:
caloso
08-31-09, 02:49 PM
I rode from Truckee to King's Beach via Brockway Summit a couple of weeks ago. I thought it was horrible - constant fast traffic and marginal space to ride, especially on the passing lane stretch. The constant road noise coupled with the elevation and sucking in all that exhaust gave me a terrific headache.
Oh, yeah - I thought it was steep, too. :)
Traffic wasn't too bad for me. Going early Sunday morning helped. But your pix from above inspired me: next time we go up I'm going to have my wife drop me off at Cisco and ride to TC from there.
Oh, yeah - I thought it was steep, too. :)
Traffic wasn't too bad for me. Going early Sunday morning helped. But your pix from above inspired me: next time we go up I'm going to have my wife drop me off at Cisco and ride to TC from there.
bigbossman
08-31-09, 05:35 PM
Traffic wasn't too bad for me. Going early Sunday morning helped. But your pix from above inspired me: next time we go up I'm going to have my wife drop me off at Cisco and ride to TC from there.
Yeah - maybe next time I should avaid mid-day Saturday. :)
Yeah - maybe next time I should avaid mid-day Saturday. :)
TeeMac
08-31-09, 05:36 PM
I rode south towards Santa Teresa on my mountain bike expecting to do Rocky Ridge. Took a little detour off Almaden Expressway just as it goes up that last little rise because I saw a small jump I thought looked fun. Rode over a goat-head patch, got over 200 goat heads in my tires. Called my wife to come pick me up. Spent the next hour and a half cleaning out sharp things from the inside of my tires. Stupid is as stupid does.
Midland
08-31-09, 08:06 PM
Went on a Carquinez bridge to Martinez bridge loop with a few BF memebers. Great weather, views and laughs the whole time.
bigbossman
09-01-09, 05:30 PM
Went on a Carquinez bridge to Martinez bridge loop with a few BF memebers. Great weather, views and laughs the whole time.
Here it is:
Ride plans for Saturday fell through, and it was a good thing, too....triple digit temps and me don't get along too well. Sunday was a different matter, as the heat broke with the fall of dusk and the temps plunged a good 20+ degrees overnight.
The new bike-path on the Benicia bridge had opened on Saturday, and on Sunday I was invited by some fellow BF members to tag along for our first crossing. We started in Concord, rode to Crockett, crossed the Al Zampa (Crockett) bridge, zipped through Vallejo, and then headed on down to Benicia to re-cross the water on the Benicia bridge and close the loop back in Concord.
It was a stunning day with good friends, and we ended up with ~50 miles and 3,000'+ of climbing all told.
Headed toward the Crockett Bridge, looking to the Benicia Bridge that we would cross later:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/beniciabridge.jpg
On the Benicia Bridge, looking toward the point where the first pic was taken:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/ship.jpg
Crossing the Crockett Bridge - it was a glorious day:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/me-1.jpg
Mt Diablo, from the Martinez Scenic Route:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/train.jpg
Tooling along Lake Herman Road:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/meanddan-2.jpg
Chasing on the descent:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/chasing.jpg
I get a flat:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/flat.jpg
Mt Diablo and the moth-balled USS Iowa (peeking out):
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/diablo.jpg
Crossing the Benicia Bridge, headed for the barn:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/me-3.jpg
Here it is:
Ride plans for Saturday fell through, and it was a good thing, too....triple digit temps and me don't get along too well. Sunday was a different matter, as the heat broke with the fall of dusk and the temps plunged a good 20+ degrees overnight.
The new bike-path on the Benicia bridge had opened on Saturday, and on Sunday I was invited by some fellow BF members to tag along for our first crossing. We started in Concord, rode to Crockett, crossed the Al Zampa (Crockett) bridge, zipped through Vallejo, and then headed on down to Benicia to re-cross the water on the Benicia bridge and close the loop back in Concord.
It was a stunning day with good friends, and we ended up with ~50 miles and 3,000'+ of climbing all told.
Headed toward the Crockett Bridge, looking to the Benicia Bridge that we would cross later:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/beniciabridge.jpg
On the Benicia Bridge, looking toward the point where the first pic was taken:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/ship.jpg
Crossing the Crockett Bridge - it was a glorious day:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/me-1.jpg
Mt Diablo, from the Martinez Scenic Route:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/train.jpg
Tooling along Lake Herman Road:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/meanddan-2.jpg
Chasing on the descent:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/chasing.jpg
I get a flat:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/flat.jpg
Mt Diablo and the moth-balled USS Iowa (peeking out):
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/diablo.jpg
Crossing the Benicia Bridge, headed for the barn:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/me-3.jpg
fc_
09-01-09, 07:02 PM
I rode the "northern end" of JoBob's East Bay 200k permanent (Redwood Rd through to the Dublin/Pleasanton BART Station). Not terribly fast, but hey, I'll take what I can get. Full writeup here (http://6x18.blogspot.com/2009/09/100k.html). (yeah, I need to get some photos up).
MarkoPolo
09-01-09, 10:37 PM
I get a flat:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/flat.jpg
Only one? :innocent:
http://i162.photobucket.com/albums/t267/jd6572/2009%20Rides/Bridge%20to%20Bridge/flat.jpg
Only one? :innocent:
bigbossman
09-01-09, 11:31 PM
Only one? :innocent:
Actually, two. I seem to go for endless miles without any, and then they come in bunches. But, you know that, eh?
This time is was a pinch flat when hitting a crevice, followed some miles later by a goathead puncture traversing the industrial wasteland of Martinez. That place is a war-zone.
Actually, two. I seem to go for endless miles without any, and then they come in bunches. But, you know that, eh?
This time is was a pinch flat when hitting a crevice, followed some miles later by a goathead puncture traversing the industrial wasteland of Martinez. That place is a war-zone.
pacificaslim
09-06-09, 04:20 PM
I rode up to the City from my house in Pacifica to check out the chaos that is "Sunday Streets". They closed the great highway and part of golden gate park so people could "play" on their bicycles. Anyhow...I was sitting on a bench in Golden Gate park by the buffalo/bisen pen having a cliff bar and heard a loud freehub riding by behind me (mavic?) and turned around just in time to see Pete on his green fixed gear and the other rider with the loud freewheel disappear into the crowd. I couldn't see through the crowd enough to identify which one of ya all was the other rider, but as both were wearing the Over 50 jerseys, it has to be someone who posts here.
I rode through the park to American Cyclery, looked around, and headed back to Pacifica. The fog was mighty thick and made it a pretty wet, cold, and miserable 30 mile round tripper.
I rode through the park to American Cyclery, looked around, and headed back to Pacifica. The fog was mighty thick and made it a pretty wet, cold, and miserable 30 mile round tripper.
subframe
09-06-09, 04:46 PM
SF->Santa Cruz, via Skyline, bike path, 84, 1. Started out VERY foggy as pacificaslim noted; on Skyline south of Pacifica, it was as low-visibility as I've ever (not) seen. By the south end of Cañada it cleared up though, and stayed glorious for the rest of the day. 84 was fun going up, and more fun going down. The West side of that road is a fantastic descent.
Once we got to the coast and 1, well, it was amazing. Perfect weather, tailwind, scenery of intense color and great views. at the end, we were glad to get to Santa Cruz, but already missing the coast.
All in all, 91 miles, 5300' of climbing.
Woohoo!
Once we got to the coast and 1, well, it was amazing. Perfect weather, tailwind, scenery of intense color and great views. at the end, we were glad to get to Santa Cruz, but already missing the coast.
All in all, 91 miles, 5300' of climbing.
Woohoo!
bigbossman
09-06-09, 05:25 PM
Just got back - San Ramon down to Sunol, then down Niles Cyn, up/over Palomares, and back to San Ramon. Only about 41 miles and 2500' of climbing, but the wind was problematic. :)
galyons
09-06-09, 10:04 PM
Just got back - San Ramon down to Sunol, then down Niles Cyn, up/over Palomares, and back to San Ramon. Only about 41 miles and 2500' of climbing, but the wind was problematic. :)
I did Pleasant Hill to Pleasanton and back. Boring 53 miles, 2000' of climbing. The wind? Definitely problematic! I just don't understand how I manage to get a nasty headwind out AND back!!
Cheers,
Geary
I did Pleasant Hill to Pleasanton and back. Boring 53 miles, 2000' of climbing. The wind? Definitely problematic! I just don't understand how I manage to get a nasty headwind out AND back!!
Cheers,
Geary
Midland
09-06-09, 10:50 PM
70 mi. loop around Mt. Diablo w/ LanceOldstrong. Over Morgan Terr. into Livermore & back Collier Canyon to Camino Tass. & up to the jnct. on South Gate(runnin' out of gas here) and down North Gate rd.(haulin' ass now) into Concord. Great weather & camradierie.
By the way-we saw an older guy struggling up Marsh Creek(a friend was waiting up ahead) with the goal of doing Morgan T. & back to W.C. having never done it before. My partner & I started being concerned for the guy wondering if he had it in him. As we got going again at the top after a break we saw the friend just start waiting... and we were hoping the guy eventually made it or his friend headed back down & got him home.http://www.bikeforums.net/<a href=
By the way-we saw an older guy struggling up Marsh Creek(a friend was waiting up ahead) with the goal of doing Morgan T. & back to W.C. having never done it before. My partner & I started being concerned for the guy wondering if he had it in him. As we got going again at the top after a break we saw the friend just start waiting... and we were hoping the guy eventually made it or his friend headed back down & got him home.http://www.bikeforums.net/<a href=
Lanceoldstrong
09-07-09, 12:21 AM
70 mi. loop around Mt. Diablo w/ LanceOldstrong. Over Morgan Terr. into Livermore & back Collier Canyon to Camino Tass. & up to the jnct. on South Gate(runnin' out of gas here) and down North Gate rd.(haulin' ass now) into Concord. Great weather & camradierie.
By the way-we saw an older guy struggling up Marsh Creek(a friend was waiting up ahead) with the goal of doing Morgan T. & back to W.C. having never done it before. My partner & I started being concerned for the guy wondering if he had it in him. As we got going again at the top after a break we saw the friend just start waiting... and we were hoping the guy eventually made it or his friend headed back down & got him home.http://www.bikeforums.net/<a href=
Pictures! - we had a great 70 miles out there today.
Goregeous on Morgan Territory
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05598.jpg
Shredding a corner on Morgan Territory
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05625.jpg
The cleat doctor working on Midland's show at summit on Morgan
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05648.jpg
The view from Morgan summit
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05661.jpg
Grinding away in "problematic winds" outside of Livermore
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05696.jpg
Water stop on Mt. Diablo
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05868.jpg
By the way-we saw an older guy struggling up Marsh Creek(a friend was waiting up ahead) with the goal of doing Morgan T. & back to W.C. having never done it before. My partner & I started being concerned for the guy wondering if he had it in him. As we got going again at the top after a break we saw the friend just start waiting... and we were hoping the guy eventually made it or his friend headed back down & got him home.http://www.bikeforums.net/<a href=
Pictures! - we had a great 70 miles out there today.
Goregeous on Morgan Territory
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05598.jpg
Shredding a corner on Morgan Territory
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05625.jpg
The cleat doctor working on Midland's show at summit on Morgan
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05648.jpg
The view from Morgan summit
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05661.jpg
Grinding away in "problematic winds" outside of Livermore
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05696.jpg
Water stop on Mt. Diablo
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05868.jpg
taxi777
09-07-09, 08:51 AM
turned around just in time to see Pete on his green fixed gear and the other rider with the loud freewheel disappear into the crowd. I couldn't see through the crowd enough to identify which one of ya all was the other rider, but as both were wearing the Over 50 jerseys, it has to be someone who posts here.
Yep that was my wife and I doing Streets Sunday. Too bad I didn't see you there.
http://i199.photobucket.com/albums/aa292/taxi777/Cathy-1.jpg
Yep that was my wife and I doing Streets Sunday. Too bad I didn't see you there.
http://i199.photobucket.com/albums/aa292/taxi777/Cathy-1.jpg
Sagebum
09-07-09, 09:48 AM
[QUOTE=Lanceoldstrong;9627509]Pictures! - we had a great 70 miles out there today.
Goregeous on Morgan Territory
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05598.jpg
This looks like a great ride LO. Is there a map handy? I would'nt mind riding this when I get over there sometime.
Looking forward to the East Sierra thing in October.
Goregeous on Morgan Territory
http://i138.photobucket.com/albums/q250/LanceOldstrong/DSC05598.jpg
This looks like a great ride LO. Is there a map handy? I would'nt mind riding this when I get over there sometime.
Looking forward to the East Sierra thing in October.
bigbossman
09-07-09, 10:11 AM
Looking forward to the East Sierra thing in October.
If you're talking about the Sierra Fall Century, that is this coming Saturday, 9/12
If you're talking about the Sierra Fall Century, that is this coming Saturday, 9/12
Sagebum
09-07-09, 11:45 AM
If you're talking about the Sierra Fall Century, that is this coming Saturday, 9/12
Hi BBM
Yes we will be at the High Sierra Fall Century again. Look for some Alta Alpina jerseys...hope to see you. I was talking about a Bike Journal get together in October over here.
Thanks for the map LO......looks good.
Hi BBM
Yes we will be at the High Sierra Fall Century again. Look for some Alta Alpina jerseys...hope to see you. I was talking about a Bike Journal get together in October over here.
Thanks for the map LO......looks good.
gpelpel
09-07-09, 12:15 PM
A couple tandem rides:
Saturday:
I heard nice things about the Silverado Trail in the Napa Valley so I thought it would be a nice one for a romantic tandem outting. We rode an out and back from Rutherford to Calistoga. Yes, it's beautiful but a trail? It's no trail it's a highway, a lot of traffic and very noisy. The halfway stop at Calistoga was a nice surprise, beautiful little town. Despite the traffic the enjoyed the ride, our teamwork is getting pretty good. Stats: 29 miles, 900'.
Sunday:
I remembered some nice and quiet roads from the Wine Country Century that should be nice for another ride through the vineyards. Our goal was to start in Healdsburg, ride to the base of Lake Sonoma and then cross the hill on Canyon Road to Geyserville and ride back to Healdsburg through the Alexander Valley. We headed west to W. Dry Creek Road. This one is a real beauty, very quiet.
We missed the small road joining W Dry Creek to Dry Creek only to face a cul-de-sac and having to retrace our route for a mile or so. That wasn't too bad as the area was very pretty and romantic, perfect picnic place. Very different atmosphere than the previous day. Time for a couple pictures. Ooops... no battery in the camera. The ride to Lake Sonoma was on a busier road but the main difficulty was a quite strong headwind. I guess we thought the ride was too easy or we got frustrated from not seeing the water (from the bottom of the dam) so we decided to give a try to climbing to lake level. This two miler was our first climbing test on the tandem, the grade was rather steady (5 to 8%) but the load of this bike (42 Lbs) is quite different than a single. What surprised me was the stiffness of the frame under load, no lateral give at bottom bracket level or wobbling at all. We made it to the top and went down to and crossed the bridge. Beautiful lake but not a place for a quiet siesta, this is the mecca for muscle trucks pulling muscle boats: A showoff place where the winner is the one who has the noisiest boat.
We happily excited the area starting with the fast descent followed but the mild climb up Dry Creek, this time with a nice tailwind. We actually used our highest gear (54x12) and cruised along very nicely.
Canyon Road was a bit of a grind as my stoker was getting tired and started to have strong seat discomfort. Starting the Alexander Valley was time for a siesta pause, under oak trees surrounded by vineyards, not bad...
The Alexander Valley is another nice setting, the wineries are smaller than in Napa but contrary to the Silverado Trail they extend to both sides of the road. Unfortunately traffic was getting heavier. The worse was on Alexander Valley Road back to Healdsburg where the lack of bike lanes made it very tight and uncomfortable at some places. Add the headwind again and we were happy to get back into town. Strolling the splendid town square was another highlight for a nice day on the tandem.
We are really enjoying our new toy. As I read many time about tandem riding, it is the perfect equalizer. No one is waiting for the other or getting exhausted by trying not being dropped. If one of us wants to push hard the other may play along and push hard or just follow the cadence without adding any pressure. We can chat, share feelings about the environment at any time (at least when there's no traffic) and we spend the day together.
On the technical side we were quite surprise how easy it was to get the start and stop procedures running smoothly and how stable the bike is. We feel very safe and in control even in tight congested areas.
Stats: 42 miles, 1620'.
Saturday:
I heard nice things about the Silverado Trail in the Napa Valley so I thought it would be a nice one for a romantic tandem outting. We rode an out and back from Rutherford to Calistoga. Yes, it's beautiful but a trail? It's no trail it's a highway, a lot of traffic and very noisy. The halfway stop at Calistoga was a nice surprise, beautiful little town. Despite the traffic the enjoyed the ride, our teamwork is getting pretty good. Stats: 29 miles, 900'.
Sunday:
I remembered some nice and quiet roads from the Wine Country Century that should be nice for another ride through the vineyards. Our goal was to start in Healdsburg, ride to the base of Lake Sonoma and then cross the hill on Canyon Road to Geyserville and ride back to Healdsburg through the Alexander Valley. We headed west to W. Dry Creek Road. This one is a real beauty, very quiet.
We missed the small road joining W Dry Creek to Dry Creek only to face a cul-de-sac and having to retrace our route for a mile or so. That wasn't too bad as the area was very pretty and romantic, perfect picnic place. Very different atmosphere than the previous day. Time for a couple pictures. Ooops... no battery in the camera. The ride to Lake Sonoma was on a busier road but the main difficulty was a quite strong headwind. I guess we thought the ride was too easy or we got frustrated from not seeing the water (from the bottom of the dam) so we decided to give a try to climbing to lake level. This two miler was our first climbing test on the tandem, the grade was rather steady (5 to 8%) but the load of this bike (42 Lbs) is quite different than a single. What surprised me was the stiffness of the frame under load, no lateral give at bottom bracket level or wobbling at all. We made it to the top and went down to and crossed the bridge. Beautiful lake but not a place for a quiet siesta, this is the mecca for muscle trucks pulling muscle boats: A showoff place where the winner is the one who has the noisiest boat.
We happily excited the area starting with the fast descent followed but the mild climb up Dry Creek, this time with a nice tailwind. We actually used our highest gear (54x12) and cruised along very nicely.
Canyon Road was a bit of a grind as my stoker was getting tired and started to have strong seat discomfort. Starting the Alexander Valley was time for a siesta pause, under oak trees surrounded by vineyards, not bad...
The Alexander Valley is another nice setting, the wineries are smaller than in Napa but contrary to the Silverado Trail they extend to both sides of the road. Unfortunately traffic was getting heavier. The worse was on Alexander Valley Road back to Healdsburg where the lack of bike lanes made it very tight and uncomfortable at some places. Add the headwind again and we were happy to get back into town. Strolling the splendid town square was another highlight for a nice day on the tandem.
We are really enjoying our new toy. As I read many time about tandem riding, it is the perfect equalizer. No one is waiting for the other or getting exhausted by trying not being dropped. If one of us wants to push hard the other may play along and push hard or just follow the cadence without adding any pressure. We can chat, share feelings about the environment at any time (at least when there's no traffic) and we spend the day together.
On the technical side we were quite surprise how easy it was to get the start and stop procedures running smoothly and how stable the bike is. We feel very safe and in control even in tight congested areas.
Stats: 42 miles, 1620'.
loopybunny
09-07-09, 01:04 PM
I rode to the bank and back on Saturday morning, does that count? Only like 2 miles round trip. I was being environmentally responsible. :o)
Took my bike out this morning for a much longer ride. New bike is finally getting some miles. We did a 22.65 mile loop across the Tuolomne River into San Joaquin Co, down River Road (in Ripon), and back into Stanislaus Co then home. Longest ride I've ever done. Lots of other cyclists out. Most of them passed me, but I did pass one guy.
Pretty sure my legs could have kept going, but my lower back was killing me. I guess it'll take a while to strengthen those muscles.
What's the etiquette for stopping? I was alone and had to stop to take off my arm warmers because I didn't feel like I could safely pull them over my gloves while riding. I pulled as far right as I could without going into the dirt (and puncture vines!) because there weren't any driveways to pull into. While I was taking the warmers off, a couple guys rode by me. They would have passed me anyhow and I was actually less in their way than if I'd been riding, but I'm worried I ticked them off because I was stopped (not that they said anything to indicate this, just worried I did something wrong). They weren't right behind me when I stopped.
Took my bike out this morning for a much longer ride. New bike is finally getting some miles. We did a 22.65 mile loop across the Tuolomne River into San Joaquin Co, down River Road (in Ripon), and back into Stanislaus Co then home. Longest ride I've ever done. Lots of other cyclists out. Most of them passed me, but I did pass one guy.
Pretty sure my legs could have kept going, but my lower back was killing me. I guess it'll take a while to strengthen those muscles.
What's the etiquette for stopping? I was alone and had to stop to take off my arm warmers because I didn't feel like I could safely pull them over my gloves while riding. I pulled as far right as I could without going into the dirt (and puncture vines!) because there weren't any driveways to pull into. While I was taking the warmers off, a couple guys rode by me. They would have passed me anyhow and I was actually less in their way than if I'd been riding, but I'm worried I ticked them off because I was stopped (not that they said anything to indicate this, just worried I did something wrong). They weren't right behind me when I stopped.
kyle16
09-07-09, 01:53 PM
I rode to the bank and back on Saturday morning, does that count? Only like 2 miles round trip. I was being environmentally responsible. :o)
Took my bike out this morning for a much longer ride. New bike is finally getting some miles. We did a 22.65 mile loop across the Tuolomne River into San Joaquin Co, down River Road (in Ripon), and back into Stanislaus Co then home. Longest ride I've ever done. Lots of other cyclists out. Most of them passed me, but I did pass one guy.
Pretty sure my legs could have kept going, but my lower back was killing me. I guess it'll take a while to strengthen those muscles.
What's the etiquette for stopping? I was alone and had to stop to take off my arm warmers because I didn't feel like I could safely pull them over my gloves while riding. I pulled as far right as I could without going into the dirt (and puncture vines!) because there weren't any driveways to pull into. While I was taking the warmers off, a couple guys rode by me. They would have passed me anyhow and I was actually less in their way than if I'd been riding, but I'm worried I ticked them off because I was stopped (not that they said anything to indicate this, just worried I did something wrong). They weren't right behind me when I stopped.
Sounds like you did what you could in that situation. As long as there was enough room for you to get out of the way safely, that is good. Also, if someone is really upset, they would say something. So I think you were all good.
Good for you for getting the most miles down. Soon, you will be thinking to yourself, well, I think it is time for me to do 50, 75, 100 miles.
As for the back, I have the same problem also. Mine is because when I bought my bike, I didn't know that they sold me a bike that was too long for me. I am too stretched out, even after I bought a much shorter stem. it is better than before, but not great. You might want to start there and see if you are stretched out too much. Also, make sure you try and keep your back straight and not hunched over.
Took my bike out this morning for a much longer ride. New bike is finally getting some miles. We did a 22.65 mile loop across the Tuolomne River into San Joaquin Co, down River Road (in Ripon), and back into Stanislaus Co then home. Longest ride I've ever done. Lots of other cyclists out. Most of them passed me, but I did pass one guy.
Pretty sure my legs could have kept going, but my lower back was killing me. I guess it'll take a while to strengthen those muscles.
What's the etiquette for stopping? I was alone and had to stop to take off my arm warmers because I didn't feel like I could safely pull them over my gloves while riding. I pulled as far right as I could without going into the dirt (and puncture vines!) because there weren't any driveways to pull into. While I was taking the warmers off, a couple guys rode by me. They would have passed me anyhow and I was actually less in their way than if I'd been riding, but I'm worried I ticked them off because I was stopped (not that they said anything to indicate this, just worried I did something wrong). They weren't right behind me when I stopped.
Sounds like you did what you could in that situation. As long as there was enough room for you to get out of the way safely, that is good. Also, if someone is really upset, they would say something. So I think you were all good.
Good for you for getting the most miles down. Soon, you will be thinking to yourself, well, I think it is time for me to do 50, 75, 100 miles.
As for the back, I have the same problem also. Mine is because when I bought my bike, I didn't know that they sold me a bike that was too long for me. I am too stretched out, even after I bought a much shorter stem. it is better than before, but not great. You might want to start there and see if you are stretched out too much. Also, make sure you try and keep your back straight and not hunched over.
loopybunny
09-07-09, 02:38 PM
Sounds like you did what you could in that situation. As long as there was enough room for you to get out of the way safely, that is good. Also, if someone is really upset, they would say something. So I think you were all good..
Thanks for the input. Now that I know the route, I'll take my arm warmers off before I get onto that road if I need to. I didn't want to stop there to begin with, but I already had them bunched on my lower arms and was starting to sweat a lot in that area.
Good for you for getting the most miles down. Soon, you will be thinking to yourself, well, I think it is time for me to do 50, 75, 100 miles.
Well, Levi's GranFondo is in less than a month... I'm training for the Piccolo. I'm learning that I can climb for a long time as long as it's steady and not too steep. It's those short super steep hills that get me. I'll probably make a fool out of myself anyhow.
As for the back, I have the same problem also. Mine is because when I bought my bike, I didn't know that they sold me a bike that was too long for me. I am too stretched out, even after I bought a much shorter stem. it is better than before, but not great. You might want to start there and see if you are stretched out too much. Also, make sure you try and keep your back straight and not hunched over
I hope that it's just my form and lack of strength and not that my bike is even the slightest bit too big for me. I went through my photos from races and check out their positions and my head seems to be in about the same place as the smaller guys. I'm long in the torso and arms for my height and my bike is definitely on the smaller side. When I take it in for an adjustment, I'll ask them about it and see about a shorter stem. I'm also going to research exercises to do to target my lower back. Someone suggested I try yoga.
Thanks for the input. Now that I know the route, I'll take my arm warmers off before I get onto that road if I need to. I didn't want to stop there to begin with, but I already had them bunched on my lower arms and was starting to sweat a lot in that area.
Good for you for getting the most miles down. Soon, you will be thinking to yourself, well, I think it is time for me to do 50, 75, 100 miles.
Well, Levi's GranFondo is in less than a month... I'm training for the Piccolo. I'm learning that I can climb for a long time as long as it's steady and not too steep. It's those short super steep hills that get me. I'll probably make a fool out of myself anyhow.
As for the back, I have the same problem also. Mine is because when I bought my bike, I didn't know that they sold me a bike that was too long for me. I am too stretched out, even after I bought a much shorter stem. it is better than before, but not great. You might want to start there and see if you are stretched out too much. Also, make sure you try and keep your back straight and not hunched over
I hope that it's just my form and lack of strength and not that my bike is even the slightest bit too big for me. I went through my photos from races and check out their positions and my head seems to be in about the same place as the smaller guys. I'm long in the torso and arms for my height and my bike is definitely on the smaller side. When I take it in for an adjustment, I'll ask them about it and see about a shorter stem. I'm also going to research exercises to do to target my lower back. Someone suggested I try yoga.