Note: See post #84 for a list of current BF member participants in Eroica California 2018. Please post any updated info to this thread and I'll add it there. Additional internal communications via a google groups set up for BF participants at Bike Forums 2018 Eroica California participants here:
https://groups.google.com/forum/#!forum/bf_eroica_2018
Hello all,
One recurring theme I am trying to push, especially for C&V riders, is to support and attend the Eroica California 2018 ride this year. Its a really fun time with so many like-minded bicycling people, but you don't have to be a huge C&V fan to have fun. People bring all kinds of older bikes out to ride, and the fun is in the people, the machines, and the great ambiance of Paso Robles, home to award winning wineries, the California Central Coast, and the challenge of the 4 different routes.
Putting on this huge event, all the logistics, and supporting the local HOSPICE SLO COUNTY programs means getting as many riders and attendees as possible and continuing to grow and sustain the event. Last year there were about 850 riders, and I'm hoping it grows to over 950-1000 vintage riders (at least 10-15% growth). They can host up to 1500 riders this year.
This can only happen if we spread the word and ask / encourage others to come and participate. Whether we agree with everything in the rules and regulations, have a bike that reasonably conforms, or the cost and logistics allow, I think we can agree that the only way to keep C&V alive is to expose more people to it, and the general idea of having fun on vintage bikes. So spread the word to your vintage or modern friends, bike shops and rides, and help / assist with anyone needing a bike to ride. There will also be vintage bike rentals available from Wally's Bicycle Works in San Luis Obispo:
NEWS. EROICA CALIFORNIA | PASO ROBLES CA | 14-15 APRIL 2018
Housing can be had via hotel / motel, AirBnB, VRBO, etc. and bikes can be shipped in and out via Bikeflights.com. I know Gugie is organizing a big PNW contingent to come down. Airflights can be arranged into San Francisco / San Jose (3 hr / 2.5 hour drive to Paso), Monterey (2 hour drive), Santa Barabara (2 hour drive), or San Luis Obispo regional airport (via connections fromm Alaska, American, United airlines). There is also Amtrak train routes to SLO, unfortunately doesn't stop in Paso for baggage service though.
I know people from Portland / Seattle and Phoenix / Tucson / Albequerque are coming, and I hope more will from all over the country if possible. I encourage all on this thread, the vintage rides, and any of your like minded friends to spread the word. Registration is currently $150 till March 15, then $175 till March 21, and $200 from April 1-7.
Also new this year is Nova Eroica, an event the same day for modern bikes that will be held on 89 mile Coastal Route but in different, more competitive timed format. Eroica California is aiming for 200 riders under a different format so let all your modern bike friends know too.
EROICA CALIFORNIA | PASO ROBLES CA | 14-15 APRIL 2018
REGISTRATION. EROICA CALIFORNIA | PASO ROBLES CA | 14-15 APRIL 2018
Nova Eroica
As some have alluded to, it would be great to set up a Bike Forums group meeting, activity, or tent for Friday or Saturday before the ride. Classic Rendezvous group members are doing just that, so hopefully BF members will also be out in force and numbers as well. Its always great to put faces and handshakes (plus bikes) to member names and avatars.
Bartley Yee
La Habra, California USA