packfodder

Hoping some of you Albuquerque roadies can help. I’ll be in Albuquerque on business soon, and I’ll have 6+ hours to get a ride in.

I found swcp.com, which has some nice maps and ride descriptions. I want to ride the Sandia Crest Climb. The web site helped a lot, but I have a few more questions.

Considering my hotel location, my most favorable route would be a loop from Tramway and Rt66 to Tijeras, to 14, to 536, up Sandia Crest, and return to Albuquerque by way of 165 to I-25.

Hence my questions:

Anyone have updated road conditions?

Is 165 smooth enough to ride? I’m pretty sure it’s not paved for several miles. Is it safe to ride?

What’s the decent like on 165? Am I missing out on the fun if I don’t retrace back down 536 and 14?

Thanks in advance.

asgelle

The loop you describe is often referred to a Round the Mountain and is a great ride. However, I don't know anyone who rides it counterclockwise as you propose. Descending eight miles of fairly steep gravel road on 165 is no fun. Everyone does it clockwise. You would go North then West on Tramway under I25 to 313. Then take 313 North to Bernalillo. From Bernalillo, take 165 (Placitas Road) 9 miles to the end of the pavement, then another 8 miles on a pretty good gravel road to the Crest Road. The gravel is good enough that I just ride my usual road bike with my usual 23 mm tires. When you reach the Crest road you can climb 6 miles to the top, or not. Descend down to N14 to 66 in Tijears, back to Tramway.

dolomite592

+1. I wouldn't advise riding 165 downhill. Out-and-back is the best way to accomplish this monster.

packfodder

Thanks asgelle and dolo. After y'all's info, I'll do the climb clockwise from the north (165) for sure. Really looking forward to it. Rolling from Bernalillo at roughly 2pm this Saturday...