Huntington Beach to Carlsbad
70 miles
2,086 elevation gain
12.3 mph average speed
christmas comes this time each year
6 hours ago
Saturday, August 23, 2008
Day 18
Lompoc to Ventura
90 miles
2,649' elevation gain
14.1mph average speed
Climbing out of Lompoc-16 miles uphill to an elevation of just over 1,100 feet. Never too steep, just a long slog. The descent down to Refugio was fast-I don't think I touched the brakes for two miles! This took us back to the coast, and most of the riding to Santa Barbara was on the 101 freeway.
We veered off the ACA route through Santa Barbara, opting for the color of State Street. Between SB and Ventura, we used Alan's local knowledge and took a variety of back roads and bike paths through Carpenteria and Summerland. Back on the freeway at Rincon Point, the tailwind helped us speed through this section at 22 to 24mph.
We rode through the crazy traffic of Main Street and soon we at Chuck and Marlene house in Ventura, where we spent the night. Ellen came up from San Diego, and Alan treated the whole group (Chuck, Marlene, Liz, Mike, Gregory, Ellen, Janet, Jo, Alan and me) to dinner at the Peruvian Thai restuarant. We had a great visit with everyone and a great big thank you to Chuck and Marlene putting us up for the night.
90 miles
2,649' elevation gain
14.1mph average speed
Climbing out of Lompoc-16 miles uphill to an elevation of just over 1,100 feet. Never too steep, just a long slog. The descent down to Refugio was fast-I don't think I touched the brakes for two miles! This took us back to the coast, and most of the riding to Santa Barbara was on the 101 freeway.
We veered off the ACA route through Santa Barbara, opting for the color of State Street. Between SB and Ventura, we used Alan's local knowledge and took a variety of back roads and bike paths through Carpenteria and Summerland. Back on the freeway at Rincon Point, the tailwind helped us speed through this section at 22 to 24mph.
We rode through the crazy traffic of Main Street and soon we at Chuck and Marlene house in Ventura, where we spent the night. Ellen came up from San Diego, and Alan treated the whole group (Chuck, Marlene, Liz, Mike, Gregory, Ellen, Janet, Jo, Alan and me) to dinner at the Peruvian Thai restuarant. We had a great visit with everyone and a great big thank you to Chuck and Marlene putting us up for the night.
Day 20
Malibu to Huntington Beach
59 Miles
608 feet elevation gain
13.3 mph average speed
Jane prepared a gourmet breakfast for us and sent us off to navigate through Los Angeles. On the way through Marina Del Rey we met three local Santa Monica riders and rode with them to Hermosa Beach, where they showed us to the local Peet's coffee. Today's ride was so flat that about a third of our climbing was to get to the coffee stop.
The dreaded route through LA turned out to be pleasant and traffic wasn't too bad. The only scary part for me was two railroad crossings at acute angles with no room to maneuver. We got on a bike path on the south side levee of the Los Angeles River and followed that into Long Beach. It is remarkable how many miles of sandy beaches line the So Cal coast.
59 Miles
608 feet elevation gain
13.3 mph average speed
Jane prepared a gourmet breakfast for us and sent us off to navigate through Los Angeles. On the way through Marina Del Rey we met three local Santa Monica riders and rode with them to Hermosa Beach, where they showed us to the local Peet's coffee. Today's ride was so flat that about a third of our climbing was to get to the coffee stop.
The dreaded route through LA turned out to be pleasant and traffic wasn't too bad. The only scary part for me was two railroad crossings at acute angles with no room to maneuver. We got on a bike path on the south side levee of the Los Angeles River and followed that into Long Beach. It is remarkable how many miles of sandy beaches line the So Cal coast.
Day 19
Ventura to Malibu
54 miles
1,143 feet elevation gain
13.9 mph average speed
We left Ventura late, since this was scheduled to be an easy day. Marlene cooked us a scrumptious breakfast, then we only got as far as Channel Islands Harbor before deciding to meet Ellen, Liz, Janet and Jo for lunch there at the Persian Seaside Grill. The food was good but the Harbor area was dead quiet.
The ride through Port Hueneme was pleasant and this area seems to have improved over the last 20 years since I last visited. Then we had a lovely ride into Malibu - Kevin got yet another afternoon second wind and pulled us the last 5 miles at a brisk 22 mph pace to Duke's for a beer, before Jo picked us up for the ride up Las Flores canyon to her brother and sister-in-law's house for a fantastic dinner - thanks Jane and Jeff!
I only took one picture on this day, showing our crossover into Los Angeles County.
54 miles
1,143 feet elevation gain
13.9 mph average speed
We left Ventura late, since this was scheduled to be an easy day. Marlene cooked us a scrumptious breakfast, then we only got as far as Channel Islands Harbor before deciding to meet Ellen, Liz, Janet and Jo for lunch there at the Persian Seaside Grill. The food was good but the Harbor area was dead quiet.
The ride through Port Hueneme was pleasant and this area seems to have improved over the last 20 years since I last visited. Then we had a lovely ride into Malibu - Kevin got yet another afternoon second wind and pulled us the last 5 miles at a brisk 22 mph pace to Duke's for a beer, before Jo picked us up for the ride up Las Flores canyon to her brother and sister-in-law's house for a fantastic dinner - thanks Jane and Jeff!
I only took one picture on this day, showing our crossover into Los Angeles County.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Day 17
Morro Bay to Lompoc
75.3 miles
3,116 elevation gain
13.5 mph average speed
Today started in typical fashion-cool temps and overcast skies. Morro Bay through Los Osos, on to San Luis Obispo. Our morning coffee break was in SLO at a little coffee place on Higuera Street. Back on the road towards Pismo Beach, we paid tribute to my mother at a big sign directing us to "Old Edna". A photo honoring my mother can be seen in the pix Alan posted for today. I'm sure my mom appreciates our tribute to her.
The miles flew by on the level terrain, and we stopped for an early afternoon break near Nipomo where we met up with Janet, Jo, Gene, Carol and Janet's great uncle Herman and great aunt Rachel. Herman is about 90years old, and very interested in how our tires were doing. Rachel is a total delight, and it was good to visit with them for a half hour or so. We had lunch in the small town of Guadalupe at a place called "King Falafel". Alan had a garden burger, I had a cheese burger.
Back on the road again with a favorable tailwind soon we were at the base of the major climb of the day-the Harris Grade into Lompoc. This climb was about 3 miles at 6 to 8%, and gained 700 feet or so. We felt great up this climb. The descent down to Lompoc was fun. It started off fairly steeply, with many tight technical switchbacks near the top-way fun. Soon we were at the motel in town where we met up with Janet and Jo again. Today was a laundry day, so we took care of that and then went to dinner at a local Italian restuarant.
The food was good, but the highlight was Mama Catarina-the owner of the restaurant. She was a fat short Italian lady who was singing Louie Prima songs as she walked through thr restaurant, Her English wasn't too good in spite of living in the US for 40 years. But she sure was having fun.
75.3 miles
3,116 elevation gain
13.5 mph average speed
Today started in typical fashion-cool temps and overcast skies. Morro Bay through Los Osos, on to San Luis Obispo. Our morning coffee break was in SLO at a little coffee place on Higuera Street. Back on the road towards Pismo Beach, we paid tribute to my mother at a big sign directing us to "Old Edna". A photo honoring my mother can be seen in the pix Alan posted for today. I'm sure my mom appreciates our tribute to her.
The miles flew by on the level terrain, and we stopped for an early afternoon break near Nipomo where we met up with Janet, Jo, Gene, Carol and Janet's great uncle Herman and great aunt Rachel. Herman is about 90years old, and very interested in how our tires were doing. Rachel is a total delight, and it was good to visit with them for a half hour or so. We had lunch in the small town of Guadalupe at a place called "King Falafel". Alan had a garden burger, I had a cheese burger.
Back on the road again with a favorable tailwind soon we were at the base of the major climb of the day-the Harris Grade into Lompoc. This climb was about 3 miles at 6 to 8%, and gained 700 feet or so. We felt great up this climb. The descent down to Lompoc was fun. It started off fairly steeply, with many tight technical switchbacks near the top-way fun. Soon we were at the motel in town where we met up with Janet and Jo again. Today was a laundry day, so we took care of that and then went to dinner at a local Italian restuarant.
The food was good, but the highlight was Mama Catarina-the owner of the restaurant. She was a fat short Italian lady who was singing Louie Prima songs as she walked through thr restaurant, Her English wasn't too good in spite of living in the US for 40 years. But she sure was having fun.
Day 16
Big Sur to Morro Bay
94.5 miles
5,182 elevation gain
13 mph average speed
Today began with a fairly big climb from our campground at Pfieffer-Big Sur. The fog was thick, but traffic was Sunday morning light. The day didn't start off too well for me-perhaps not enough breakfast, maybe some effect from the dense forest of poison oak that surrounded our campsite, but the 24 miles from camp to Lucia was pretty tough. Lots of elevation gain, and somewhat scary descents in the thick fog and around 11:30 we stopped for lunch at the hamlet of Lucia. Janet and Jo we hanging around pretty close, as they said I wasn' t looking too good. I certainly wasn't feeling too well either.
After fueling up at lunch, I felt much better, and the thick fog was lifting giving more views of the spectacular Big Sur coast. The SAG Team took off, but we ran into them again at Ragged Point, a tourist spot on the coast with regular gasoline $5.449 a gallon. We had a snack and a drink and took off towards Morro Bay. From Ragged Point the terrain levels out and the miles began to fly by. We saw Elephant Seals on the beach north of San Simeon. A stiff tail wind gave us a great boost in speed-sometimes we were flying at 26mph on the flats.
In Morro Bay we met up with Janet's mom and dad, and Alan's family from Templeton came down and they all went out to dinner. The SAG team, Gene and Carol and I "enjoyed" a delicious dinner at some place in Morro Bay, while Alan's family made a far better dining choice and we have listend to Alan raving about halibut cheeks ever since.
94.5 miles
5,182 elevation gain
13 mph average speed
Today began with a fairly big climb from our campground at Pfieffer-Big Sur. The fog was thick, but traffic was Sunday morning light. The day didn't start off too well for me-perhaps not enough breakfast, maybe some effect from the dense forest of poison oak that surrounded our campsite, but the 24 miles from camp to Lucia was pretty tough. Lots of elevation gain, and somewhat scary descents in the thick fog and around 11:30 we stopped for lunch at the hamlet of Lucia. Janet and Jo we hanging around pretty close, as they said I wasn' t looking too good. I certainly wasn't feeling too well either.
After fueling up at lunch, I felt much better, and the thick fog was lifting giving more views of the spectacular Big Sur coast. The SAG Team took off, but we ran into them again at Ragged Point, a tourist spot on the coast with regular gasoline $5.449 a gallon. We had a snack and a drink and took off towards Morro Bay. From Ragged Point the terrain levels out and the miles began to fly by. We saw Elephant Seals on the beach north of San Simeon. A stiff tail wind gave us a great boost in speed-sometimes we were flying at 26mph on the flats.
In Morro Bay we met up with Janet's mom and dad, and Alan's family from Templeton came down and they all went out to dinner. The SAG team, Gene and Carol and I "enjoyed" a delicious dinner at some place in Morro Bay, while Alan's family made a far better dining choice and we have listend to Alan raving about halibut cheeks ever since.
Day 15
Santa Cruz to Big Sur
78.5 miles
3,480 elevation gain
11.3 average speed
I'll post a full report later-it is 10pm and I am tired.
78.5 miles
3,480 elevation gain
11.3 average speed
I'll post a full report later-it is 10pm and I am tired.
Day 14-
Mill Valley to Santa Cruz
93.2 miles
4,161 elevation gain
12 mph average speed
Today George joined us for our ride. The first challenge of the day was getting from Lisa's house up to the highway-the street was remarkably steep-probably 25% or more. I chose (wisely) to walk my bike the 50 yards or so, while Alan and George (foolishly) rode up the hill. A brisk downhill,a few miles and then breakfast a a little cafe in Sausalito with all our SAG support. After that, we crossed the Golden Gate Bridge.
Crossing the bridge was quite the experience-not so much because of the view (it was so foggy) but because of the hordes of pedestrian traffic. Imagine riding your bike through Disneyland,and you'll have a pretty good idea of what it was like negotiating through the crowds of camera-toting tourists. The ACA maps did a good job of routing us through the residential streets of San Francisco, avoiding downtown entirely. Then, to the beach and points south.
Heading south, the fog was so dense that at one point we missed a crucial turn, and continued on Hwy 1 until it became a freeway with the "no bicycles" warning. We turned around, doubling back a mile or so and having needlessly climbing a couple hundred vertical feet. Once back on track, we ran into a local cyclist that gave us some good info on the upcoming major climb of the day-the Devil's Slide. We stopped for coffee in Pacifica, then took off for our climb.
Devil's Slide is about a 700' climb, through an area of twisty, no-shoulder roadway, with lots of traffic. Gradient is 8 to 10% and no real resting spots. It was on this climb that George began thinking of how attractive a triple crankset can be. After a fast descent, we were into more gentle terrain, and soon were in Half Moon Bay. Here, Alan assigned me the task of finding a Jamba Juice. Within minutes, I said "there's your Jamba Juice, right there". Alan was quite amazed with my abilities. A smoothie and a quick break, and back on the road.
After Half Moon Bay, the miles started to fly by, but George was workin' hard. At mile 60 he was nearly fully bonked, so I gave him some Hammer Gel, some electrolyte capsules, and some ibuprofen. This revitalized him, and Alan and I took turns pulling up front at 18 to 22 mph, and George hung on the remaining 30 miles to Santa Cruz.
The day finished at 93 miles and around 4,100' feet of climbing. George did a great job on a strenuous day. He hadn't spent much time on his bike for months, and was able to complete the day. He should be quite proud of himself.
93.2 miles
4,161 elevation gain
12 mph average speed
Today George joined us for our ride. The first challenge of the day was getting from Lisa's house up to the highway-the street was remarkably steep-probably 25% or more. I chose (wisely) to walk my bike the 50 yards or so, while Alan and George (foolishly) rode up the hill. A brisk downhill,a few miles and then breakfast a a little cafe in Sausalito with all our SAG support. After that, we crossed the Golden Gate Bridge.
Crossing the bridge was quite the experience-not so much because of the view (it was so foggy) but because of the hordes of pedestrian traffic. Imagine riding your bike through Disneyland,and you'll have a pretty good idea of what it was like negotiating through the crowds of camera-toting tourists. The ACA maps did a good job of routing us through the residential streets of San Francisco, avoiding downtown entirely. Then, to the beach and points south.
Heading south, the fog was so dense that at one point we missed a crucial turn, and continued on Hwy 1 until it became a freeway with the "no bicycles" warning. We turned around, doubling back a mile or so and having needlessly climbing a couple hundred vertical feet. Once back on track, we ran into a local cyclist that gave us some good info on the upcoming major climb of the day-the Devil's Slide. We stopped for coffee in Pacifica, then took off for our climb.
Devil's Slide is about a 700' climb, through an area of twisty, no-shoulder roadway, with lots of traffic. Gradient is 8 to 10% and no real resting spots. It was on this climb that George began thinking of how attractive a triple crankset can be. After a fast descent, we were into more gentle terrain, and soon were in Half Moon Bay. Here, Alan assigned me the task of finding a Jamba Juice. Within minutes, I said "there's your Jamba Juice, right there". Alan was quite amazed with my abilities. A smoothie and a quick break, and back on the road.
After Half Moon Bay, the miles started to fly by, but George was workin' hard. At mile 60 he was nearly fully bonked, so I gave him some Hammer Gel, some electrolyte capsules, and some ibuprofen. This revitalized him, and Alan and I took turns pulling up front at 18 to 22 mph, and George hung on the remaining 30 miles to Santa Cruz.
The day finished at 93 miles and around 4,100' feet of climbing. George did a great job on a strenuous day. He hadn't spent much time on his bike for months, and was able to complete the day. He should be quite proud of himself.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Day 13
From Bodega Bay to Mill Valley
65 miles
3,353 feet of climbing
11.3 mph average
Pictures:
Today was a leisurely day. We met an enthusiastic new cyclist - Greg (see his comment on Day 9 post). We parted company with Tjuan - we hope that we'll see him down the road. Today we also logged 1,000 miles.
My son George and his girlfriend Meagan are coming in tonight - George will be riding with us tomorrow, and Meagan will be SAG support for a day (thanks Meagan, Jo and Janet!) Thanks also to Lisa for putting us up this evening in her lovely Mill Valley home.
65 miles
3,353 feet of climbing
11.3 mph average
Pictures:
Today was a leisurely day. We met an enthusiastic new cyclist - Greg (see his comment on Day 9 post). We parted company with Tjuan - we hope that we'll see him down the road. Today we also logged 1,000 miles.
My son George and his girlfriend Meagan are coming in tonight - George will be riding with us tomorrow, and Meagan will be SAG support for a day (thanks Meagan, Jo and Janet!) Thanks also to Lisa for putting us up this evening in her lovely Mill Valley home.
Day 12
From Little River to Bodega Bay
95 miles
6,301 feet of climbing
13.3 mph average speed
Pictures:
For me, this was probably my best day of cycling ever. I felt great even at the end of the day's ride, and the climbing just seemed to come naturally. Highway 1 reminds me in places of the Cliffs of Insanity (see Princess Bride), and in the steepest most treacherous spot on the road, cows appear from who knows where. I passed one big black cow, who was untroubled by my passage, but when Tjuan passed a minute later the cow took issue with his recumbent, got up, and ambled off. Tjuan shared with me later that he feared that the beast was a bull, and his red garb was serving as the cape.
95 miles
6,301 feet of climbing
13.3 mph average speed
Pictures:
For me, this was probably my best day of cycling ever. I felt great even at the end of the day's ride, and the climbing just seemed to come naturally. Highway 1 reminds me in places of the Cliffs of Insanity (see Princess Bride), and in the steepest most treacherous spot on the road, cows appear from who knows where. I passed one big black cow, who was untroubled by my passage, but when Tjuan passed a minute later the cow took issue with his recumbent, got up, and ambled off. Tjuan shared with me later that he feared that the beast was a bull, and his red garb was serving as the cape.
Day 11
From Standish Hickey (Leggett) to Little River
60.5 miles
3,845 feet of climbing
11.8 mph average
Pictures:
This had the Leggett Hill climb, a six to eight percent climb for 6 miles, and also the Rockport Hill climb, which was shorter but steeper. We had a great long descent off of Leggett Hill.
60.5 miles
3,845 feet of climbing
11.8 mph average
Pictures:
This had the Leggett Hill climb, a six to eight percent climb for 6 miles, and also the Rockport Hill climb, which was shorter but steeper. We had a great long descent off of Leggett Hill.
Day 10
From Rio Dell to Standish Hickey
69.5 miles
3059 ft. climbing
Average 11.3 mph
Pictures:
The Avenue of the Giants was the highlight of this day's ride. The SAG team showed up - Janet and Jo - and took our panniers. There was much rejoicing!
69.5 miles
3059 ft. climbing
Average 11.3 mph
Pictures:
The Avenue of the Giants was the highlight of this day's ride. The SAG team showed up - Janet and Jo - and took our panniers. There was much rejoicing!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Day 9-Humboldt County Farmlands Tour
Orick, CA to Rio Dell, CA
75 miles, 2,782 feet elevation gain, 12.5 mph average
For the first time, we started the day under sunny skies. A hearty breakfast at the Palms Cafe in Orick, then on to the road. The first part of the ride was along the coast and the Humboldt Lagoons, and as we rode south, the fog began to roll in. The ride was uneventful, although one section of road construction was particularly harrowing. The freeway was reduced to only one lane, with a traffic signal at each end. We got the green light, and took off as fast as we could-up the 8% grade. While we still in the one-lane zone, northbound traffic got their green light. Traffic was approaching head on. We think that most of the car drivers appreciated our plight, and gave us plenty of room-including the driver of the big semi-truck that was passing through. We made it okay, and went on for a coffee break in Trinidad.
Trinidad looks like a new-age hippy place with tourists. The organic coffee house had some hippy folk singer playing guitar and singing for the Sunday morning customers. We met some cyclists from Eureka who set us up with local info for a better route around Arcata and to bypass most of Eureka. On the road these guys caught up with us and we rode together for a while, then they took off at a speed that we couldn't match. Even so, they kept an eye out for us and when they saw that we took a wrong turn, they turned around and came back to put us back on track. We really appreciated their advice and help. Their route took us through farmlands and past organic dairy farms.
Some strong tailwinds pushed us into Eureka, and we stopped at the Lost Coast Brewery and Cafe for lunch, then had several miles of riding on the freeway, before finding a backroad route. We rode past the College of the Redwoods, famous for its woodworking program-and again enjoyed tailwinds that really kept our speed up. Near the town of Loleta, some really friendly locals roared past us in their big pickup truck, yelling what must be some kind of local greeting-it sounded something like "Get the F#@% off the road!" We were impressed with their enthusiasm and vocabulary.
Alan had a flat tire today, and I had two flats. Because of the time delay these imposed, we found a shortcut through more farmland-dairy cattle and goats seemed to be barnyard animals of choice. This shortcut, along with the one given to us by the Eureka guys, shaved about 10 miles from today's ride. We were expecting about an 85 mile day, but it turned out to be only 75, and we were able cut out some elevation gain. This made us happy.
Tomorrow we head into the Giant Redwoods, and anticipate about 65 hilly miles. We may not have access to the internets, so we may not be able to blog for a couple of days. Try to hang on...we will blog again as soon as we can.
And for all you that have expressed concern about how my rear end is holding up on the bicycle saddle-it is doing great, and I really apppreciate the interest-something that I haven't experienced since Debbie Shepard said I had a cute butt in junior high school.
We read all comments posted-we look forward to them all day. So please, comment away!
75 miles, 2,782 feet elevation gain, 12.5 mph average
For the first time, we started the day under sunny skies. A hearty breakfast at the Palms Cafe in Orick, then on to the road. The first part of the ride was along the coast and the Humboldt Lagoons, and as we rode south, the fog began to roll in. The ride was uneventful, although one section of road construction was particularly harrowing. The freeway was reduced to only one lane, with a traffic signal at each end. We got the green light, and took off as fast as we could-up the 8% grade. While we still in the one-lane zone, northbound traffic got their green light. Traffic was approaching head on. We think that most of the car drivers appreciated our plight, and gave us plenty of room-including the driver of the big semi-truck that was passing through. We made it okay, and went on for a coffee break in Trinidad.
Trinidad looks like a new-age hippy place with tourists. The organic coffee house had some hippy folk singer playing guitar and singing for the Sunday morning customers. We met some cyclists from Eureka who set us up with local info for a better route around Arcata and to bypass most of Eureka. On the road these guys caught up with us and we rode together for a while, then they took off at a speed that we couldn't match. Even so, they kept an eye out for us and when they saw that we took a wrong turn, they turned around and came back to put us back on track. We really appreciated their advice and help. Their route took us through farmlands and past organic dairy farms.
Some strong tailwinds pushed us into Eureka, and we stopped at the Lost Coast Brewery and Cafe for lunch, then had several miles of riding on the freeway, before finding a backroad route. We rode past the College of the Redwoods, famous for its woodworking program-and again enjoyed tailwinds that really kept our speed up. Near the town of Loleta, some really friendly locals roared past us in their big pickup truck, yelling what must be some kind of local greeting-it sounded something like "Get the F#@% off the road!" We were impressed with their enthusiasm and vocabulary.
Alan had a flat tire today, and I had two flats. Because of the time delay these imposed, we found a shortcut through more farmland-dairy cattle and goats seemed to be barnyard animals of choice. This shortcut, along with the one given to us by the Eureka guys, shaved about 10 miles from today's ride. We were expecting about an 85 mile day, but it turned out to be only 75, and we were able cut out some elevation gain. This made us happy.
Tomorrow we head into the Giant Redwoods, and anticipate about 65 hilly miles. We may not have access to the internets, so we may not be able to blog for a couple of days. Try to hang on...we will blog again as soon as we can.
And for all you that have expressed concern about how my rear end is holding up on the bicycle saddle-it is doing great, and I really apppreciate the interest-something that I haven't experienced since Debbie Shepard said I had a cute butt in junior high school.
We read all comments posted-we look forward to them all day. So please, comment away!
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Day 8
From Brookings OR to Orick CA
Distance: 68.5 miles
Climbing: 2708 ft.
Average Speed: 10.7 mph
Pictures and Videos:
It was drizzly and foggy when we left Brookings - so foggy that we donned our farm equipment triangles for the first time. We stopped for coffee at a drive-thru espresso bar at Fort Dick, where we sat at a picnic table and had a nice discussion with 4 year old Chloe. She is a budding young botanist and dissected a number of flowers for us to show where the bees get the honey. Her mom was running the establishment and seemed a bit embarrassed at how friendly Chloe was.
We visited the bike store in Crescent City for chain lube, then found a nice park for a lunch break. There, another friendly young girl, this one was about 2, lost hold of her helium balloons and I grabbed them for her. She was fascinated by the bikes and her grandmother had to haul her away.
From Crescent City we had our longest climb of the trip so far, into the Coastal Redwoods. By this time the sun had come out, but the weather was nice and cool for the climb. At a viewpoint halfway down the descent we met some bikers from Martinez CA and Park City Utah - they liked my comfy Keen cycling sandals!
We had another food stop in Klamath, then started another climb, turning off of 101 onto the Newton Drury Memorial Parkway. At the top of the climb we met a cyclist on a recumbent - more about him later. He had a very cool looking rig, and even though we started the descent long before he did, he went zipping by us because his recumbent is far more aerodynamic than our standard mounts. We saw two elk (see picture) but then rode by a whole bunch more gathered in someone's yard a few miles further on.
When we got to Orick and our motel, we saw the recumbent rider there, and ended up having dinner with him. His name is Tjoan Liang le and he's visiting the USA on a 4 month journey which started in Atlanta. Tjoan is Dutch (small world, since my son Walter is studying there right now) and makes a living there as a cabinetmaker who hauls everything by bicycle and bike trailer. Check out his website. We also met Jan at the restaurant - she and her husband are on a 4 month, 15,000 mile tour. Check out their website too! Needless to say, Kevin and I felt like duffers in the company of these dedicated tourers! In any event, we had a good time discussing cycling and woodworking over dinner.
Distance: 68.5 miles
Climbing: 2708 ft.
Average Speed: 10.7 mph
Pictures and Videos:
It was drizzly and foggy when we left Brookings - so foggy that we donned our farm equipment triangles for the first time. We stopped for coffee at a drive-thru espresso bar at Fort Dick, where we sat at a picnic table and had a nice discussion with 4 year old Chloe. She is a budding young botanist and dissected a number of flowers for us to show where the bees get the honey. Her mom was running the establishment and seemed a bit embarrassed at how friendly Chloe was.
We visited the bike store in Crescent City for chain lube, then found a nice park for a lunch break. There, another friendly young girl, this one was about 2, lost hold of her helium balloons and I grabbed them for her. She was fascinated by the bikes and her grandmother had to haul her away.
From Crescent City we had our longest climb of the trip so far, into the Coastal Redwoods. By this time the sun had come out, but the weather was nice and cool for the climb. At a viewpoint halfway down the descent we met some bikers from Martinez CA and Park City Utah - they liked my comfy Keen cycling sandals!
We had another food stop in Klamath, then started another climb, turning off of 101 onto the Newton Drury Memorial Parkway. At the top of the climb we met a cyclist on a recumbent - more about him later. He had a very cool looking rig, and even though we started the descent long before he did, he went zipping by us because his recumbent is far more aerodynamic than our standard mounts. We saw two elk (see picture) but then rode by a whole bunch more gathered in someone's yard a few miles further on.
When we got to Orick and our motel, we saw the recumbent rider there, and ended up having dinner with him. His name is Tjoan Liang le and he's visiting the USA on a 4 month journey which started in Atlanta. Tjoan is Dutch (small world, since my son Walter is studying there right now) and makes a living there as a cabinetmaker who hauls everything by bicycle and bike trailer. Check out his website. We also met Jan at the restaurant - she and her husband are on a 4 month, 15,000 mile tour. Check out their website too! Needless to say, Kevin and I felt like duffers in the company of these dedicated tourers! In any event, we had a good time discussing cycling and woodworking over dinner.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Day 7-Blue Skies
Bandon, OR. to Brookings, OR.
85 Miles, 10.8mph average speed. 3,760' elevation gain
The day began cool and cloudy, but soon we saw blue skies for the first time in days. Heck, we haven't had weather this good since Washington! The views along the coast were spectacular. We weren't expecting the day to be as hilly as it turned out to be, but most of the climbs were moderate-in the 6% range.
Our strategy for the day was to take frequent, but short stops instead of a few long ones. It worked pretty well, with stops including the store in Langlois, and at a golfcourse on the Cedar Creek road. The Cedar Creek road is on the ACA route, and the few extra miles added were well worth it-almost completely car-free. And, the run down to the Rogue River was really fun on really nice pavement.
After Gold Beach there is a big long 6% climb gaining 700 feet or so, and then a pretty hilly road all the way to Brookings, with several climbs of 6-7%, with one that maxed out at 12% for a short distance. Highlights of this section were great scenery, a downhill where we hit nearly 38mph, and a several mile flat section where we traded pulls at 18 to 20mph.
Perhaps the most wierd thing we have seen all trip was the guy who is riding a BMX bike backwards across the country. Definitely someone who has more time than good sense. He has a web site-you could probably use the Google and find him if so inclined.
We are now relaxing in Brookings, and Alan is stinking up the room with some strange smelling lintiment that he has applied to his creaky old knees. Smells like grandpa in here!
85 Miles, 10.8mph average speed. 3,760' elevation gain
The day began cool and cloudy, but soon we saw blue skies for the first time in days. Heck, we haven't had weather this good since Washington! The views along the coast were spectacular. We weren't expecting the day to be as hilly as it turned out to be, but most of the climbs were moderate-in the 6% range.
Our strategy for the day was to take frequent, but short stops instead of a few long ones. It worked pretty well, with stops including the store in Langlois, and at a golfcourse on the Cedar Creek road. The Cedar Creek road is on the ACA route, and the few extra miles added were well worth it-almost completely car-free. And, the run down to the Rogue River was really fun on really nice pavement.
After Gold Beach there is a big long 6% climb gaining 700 feet or so, and then a pretty hilly road all the way to Brookings, with several climbs of 6-7%, with one that maxed out at 12% for a short distance. Highlights of this section were great scenery, a downhill where we hit nearly 38mph, and a several mile flat section where we traded pulls at 18 to 20mph.
Perhaps the most wierd thing we have seen all trip was the guy who is riding a BMX bike backwards across the country. Definitely someone who has more time than good sense. He has a web site-you could probably use the Google and find him if so inclined.
We are now relaxing in Brookings, and Alan is stinking up the room with some strange smelling lintiment that he has applied to his creaky old knees. Smells like grandpa in here!
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Day 6
From Reedsport OR to Bandon OR
Distance: 57 Miles
Climbing: 2115 feet
Average Speed: 10.7 mph
Pictures:
Last night we stayed at the Anchor Bay Inn. We awoke to another drizzly Oregon day, had a light continental breakfast, then took off down Highway 101. One of the perks of riding all day is you get to eat a lot, and I enjoy our second breakfasts - this one was in Winchester Bay. From there we got off of 101 and on to Wildwood Rd. for a beautiful, quiet ride through ferns and conifers. We stopped at a county park for a clif bar, then tackled the crossing of the McCullough Bridge on foot. This hike was for over a mile on a very narrow sidewalk pushing our bikes rather awkwardly beside us. We had lunch in Coos Bay and then got to ride on my favorite road so far - Seven Devils Rd.
The devil gets credited with the coolest geographical features: churns, lakes, elbows (all of we've seen on this trip), and then there's post piles, cauldrons, punch bowls and in this case, seven 12 percent grades on a beautiful coastal road. Some kind soul had taken the trouble to number these devils for us.
After the climbs we were rewarded with a thrilling descent, with Kevin off the front as usual on the long downhills. We pretty much descended all the way into Bandon, then found our motel.
Distance: 57 Miles
Climbing: 2115 feet
Average Speed: 10.7 mph
Pictures:
Last night we stayed at the Anchor Bay Inn. We awoke to another drizzly Oregon day, had a light continental breakfast, then took off down Highway 101. One of the perks of riding all day is you get to eat a lot, and I enjoy our second breakfasts - this one was in Winchester Bay. From there we got off of 101 and on to Wildwood Rd. for a beautiful, quiet ride through ferns and conifers. We stopped at a county park for a clif bar, then tackled the crossing of the McCullough Bridge on foot. This hike was for over a mile on a very narrow sidewalk pushing our bikes rather awkwardly beside us. We had lunch in Coos Bay and then got to ride on my favorite road so far - Seven Devils Rd.
The devil gets credited with the coolest geographical features: churns, lakes, elbows (all of we've seen on this trip), and then there's post piles, cauldrons, punch bowls and in this case, seven 12 percent grades on a beautiful coastal road. Some kind soul had taken the trouble to number these devils for us.
After the climbs we were rewarded with a thrilling descent, with Kevin off the front as usual on the long downhills. We pretty much descended all the way into Bandon, then found our motel.
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
Another cloudy day-Day 5
Newport to Reedsport
Mileage-73 Average speed 11.4 mph.
Elevation gain 2,740
Today's route was on Highway 101 the entire time. Looking at the elevation profiles, we thought that today would be a relatively flat day, without significant climbs. While not as strenuous as yesterday, today still had some good climbs-mostly in the 6 to 7% range. The climb up Hecate Head was a long grind at 4%, then it popped up to a max of 8%, including the passage through the second and last tunnel on the Oregon Coast. Tunnels are fun. Upon entering, you press the button to illuminate the flashing "Bikes in Tunnel" lights, then enter to the intense sounds of cars, logging trucks and Harleys. It is quite nerve racking.
The day was overcast and foggy, and we stopped in Waldport for a mid-morning snack at a cafe/bakery and to warm up a bit. Because the fog limited views of the scenery, we pushed on to lunch in Florence (at 50 miles) but did stop and take in the view (as it was) at Hecata Head, seeing a bunch of sea lions, and the Hecata Lighthouse peeking through the fog and mist. The high point of the day was at the Darlingtonia Wayside, where we saw the carnivorous Darlingtonia plant. Photos are posted. And regardless of what it looks like, I was taking photos of the plants-my position was not the result of too many beers at lunch (we hadn't yet stopped for lunch).
After a delicious lunch at Quizno's, we had a relatively quick 25 mile ride to Reedsport, where we stopped for the night at the Anchor Bay Motel. Big rooms and clean, it is a trek back in time when touring by motor car and staying at Motor Hotels was king. Thanks go out to Janet for supplying us with daily lodging options. We finished our day at 5:00pm-the earliest yet. Dinner was at Bedrock's Chowder House-it was quite tasty, and the Rogue Dead Guy Ale (Kevin) and the Alaskan Amber (Alan) was well earned and quite delicious.
The bikes are working perfectly-gearing, fit and handling couldn't be better.
Mileage-73 Average speed 11.4 mph.
Elevation gain 2,740
Today's route was on Highway 101 the entire time. Looking at the elevation profiles, we thought that today would be a relatively flat day, without significant climbs. While not as strenuous as yesterday, today still had some good climbs-mostly in the 6 to 7% range. The climb up Hecate Head was a long grind at 4%, then it popped up to a max of 8%, including the passage through the second and last tunnel on the Oregon Coast. Tunnels are fun. Upon entering, you press the button to illuminate the flashing "Bikes in Tunnel" lights, then enter to the intense sounds of cars, logging trucks and Harleys. It is quite nerve racking.
The day was overcast and foggy, and we stopped in Waldport for a mid-morning snack at a cafe/bakery and to warm up a bit. Because the fog limited views of the scenery, we pushed on to lunch in Florence (at 50 miles) but did stop and take in the view (as it was) at Hecata Head, seeing a bunch of sea lions, and the Hecata Lighthouse peeking through the fog and mist. The high point of the day was at the Darlingtonia Wayside, where we saw the carnivorous Darlingtonia plant. Photos are posted. And regardless of what it looks like, I was taking photos of the plants-my position was not the result of too many beers at lunch (we hadn't yet stopped for lunch).
After a delicious lunch at Quizno's, we had a relatively quick 25 mile ride to Reedsport, where we stopped for the night at the Anchor Bay Motel. Big rooms and clean, it is a trek back in time when touring by motor car and staying at Motor Hotels was king. Thanks go out to Janet for supplying us with daily lodging options. We finished our day at 5:00pm-the earliest yet. Dinner was at Bedrock's Chowder House-it was quite tasty, and the Rogue Dead Guy Ale (Kevin) and the Alaskan Amber (Alan) was well earned and quite delicious.
The bikes are working perfectly-gearing, fit and handling couldn't be better.
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Day 4
From Tillamook to Newport
Distance: 75.22 miles
Climbing: 3561
Average Speed: 10.5
Distance: 75.22 miles
Climbing: 3561
Average Speed: 10.5
Today was cold and foggy with lots of climbing. Our first long climb
was Cape Lookout about 15 miles south of Tillamook. The grade hit 20%
on a few occasions but the road was quiet and the vegetation lush.
We're tired but happy - no internet here at our motel so we'll post
pictures later.
--
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Monday, August 4, 2008
Day 3 Report
Cape Disappointment WA to Tillamook, OR
89.06 miles, 2,864 feet climbing, 11.6 mph average speed.
A cloudy and cool morning met us today, and we stopped at Chinook Coffee Company in Chinook WA for coffee and a muffin. Soon after our coffee break, we came to the Astoria Bridge across the Columbia River. It is 4.1 miles long, and on the Oregon side, the highrise (to let ships pass underneath) has a 6% grade for about a mile. I'll let Alan describe riding across this span.
We ended up have breakfast in Warrenton at about 11:00AM, and then hopped on 101 south. We followed the Adventure Cycling Association's maps through Seaside, which took us on the "Promenade" It was fairly touristy, but not nearly as bad as Cannon Beach. The scenery around Cannon Beach was awesome, and the skies had cleared for a nice sunny day.
Soon after Cannon Beach the road begins a number of climbs, the most notable was one through a tunnel, and another 7 to 8% grade that went on for miles, plus others that I have forgotten about already. We stopped at a beach access trailhead and took a short break and refilled out water bottles. This rest was what we needed, and the next long climb went much better than the last one, and our morale was boosted. After a long downhill, we stopped at a tavern between Manzanita and Newhalem and took a well deserved break and enjoyed a cold beer on the outdoor deck. This further boosted our spirits. After that, we turned off 101, following the ACA route, and soon were facing a 10% grade. It wasn't too long, and the rest of the ride into Tillamook was great. We got to our motel, went to dinner and now are waiting for our laundry to finish. I am assigning Alan to give his ride impressions and to post pix.
89.06 miles, 2,864 feet climbing, 11.6 mph average speed.
A cloudy and cool morning met us today, and we stopped at Chinook Coffee Company in Chinook WA for coffee and a muffin. Soon after our coffee break, we came to the Astoria Bridge across the Columbia River. It is 4.1 miles long, and on the Oregon side, the highrise (to let ships pass underneath) has a 6% grade for about a mile. I'll let Alan describe riding across this span.
We ended up have breakfast in Warrenton at about 11:00AM, and then hopped on 101 south. We followed the Adventure Cycling Association's maps through Seaside, which took us on the "Promenade" It was fairly touristy, but not nearly as bad as Cannon Beach. The scenery around Cannon Beach was awesome, and the skies had cleared for a nice sunny day.
Soon after Cannon Beach the road begins a number of climbs, the most notable was one through a tunnel, and another 7 to 8% grade that went on for miles, plus others that I have forgotten about already. We stopped at a beach access trailhead and took a short break and refilled out water bottles. This rest was what we needed, and the next long climb went much better than the last one, and our morale was boosted. After a long downhill, we stopped at a tavern between Manzanita and Newhalem and took a well deserved break and enjoyed a cold beer on the outdoor deck. This further boosted our spirits. After that, we turned off 101, following the ACA route, and soon were facing a 10% grade. It wasn't too long, and the rest of the ride into Tillamook was great. We got to our motel, went to dinner and now are waiting for our laundry to finish. I am assigning Alan to give his ride impressions and to post pix.
Day Two Report
Day 2
Montesano WA to Cape Disappointment, WA
79.64 miles, 2,697 feet elevation gain, 12.o mph average.
We began our day with a hearty breakfast at the Beehive Restaurant, serving Montesano since 1934. While tempting, we did not spend any time in the Honeycomb Room. I'm sure it is the happenin' spot in downtown Montesano. Our waitress told us that WA State hwy 107 to US 101 was "curvy, hilly and somtimes no shoulder". She was absolutely correct. Between Montesano and Raymond there were probably 7 significant hills-6 to 8% for a mile or so.
In Raymond we stopped for coffee and a scone-we got coffee and a biscuit. Then, Alan had the brilliant idea to get a sandwich to go, so that we could stop and have a picnic lunch. There is a really nice bike path between Raymond and South Bend, and giant piles of stinky oyster shells all along the way. Lunch was at Bruceport County Park-a really nice place on top of a hill and great views of the bay and beyond.
We enjoyed nice tailwinds, and about 17 miles out from Ilwaco, Janet, Tamara and Evan caught up to us. Apparently, Tamara did not understand that it is customary in Washinton to flash cyclists on Sundays. Oh well. We loaded our panniers into the van and enjoyed the rest of the right with light bikes. The ride up to the State Park is quite beautiful, and worth the additional couple hundred feet of climbing.
Yurt 72 was not at all disappointing , even though Alan wanted Yurt 74.
Addendum to Day One...Thanks to Ruth for stopping by and sending us off on Saturday morning, and to Libby for riding on the ferry to Bremerton with us and sending us on our way.
Alan will post pix.
Montesano WA to Cape Disappointment, WA
79.64 miles, 2,697 feet elevation gain, 12.o mph average.
We began our day with a hearty breakfast at the Beehive Restaurant, serving Montesano since 1934. While tempting, we did not spend any time in the Honeycomb Room. I'm sure it is the happenin' spot in downtown Montesano. Our waitress told us that WA State hwy 107 to US 101 was "curvy, hilly and somtimes no shoulder". She was absolutely correct. Between Montesano and Raymond there were probably 7 significant hills-6 to 8% for a mile or so.
In Raymond we stopped for coffee and a scone-we got coffee and a biscuit. Then, Alan had the brilliant idea to get a sandwich to go, so that we could stop and have a picnic lunch. There is a really nice bike path between Raymond and South Bend, and giant piles of stinky oyster shells all along the way. Lunch was at Bruceport County Park-a really nice place on top of a hill and great views of the bay and beyond.
We enjoyed nice tailwinds, and about 17 miles out from Ilwaco, Janet, Tamara and Evan caught up to us. Apparently, Tamara did not understand that it is customary in Washinton to flash cyclists on Sundays. Oh well. We loaded our panniers into the van and enjoyed the rest of the right with light bikes. The ride up to the State Park is quite beautiful, and worth the additional couple hundred feet of climbing.
Yurt 72 was not at all disappointing , even though Alan wanted Yurt 74.
Addendum to Day One...Thanks to Ruth for stopping by and sending us off on Saturday morning, and to Libby for riding on the ferry to Bremerton with us and sending us on our way.
Alan will post pix.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Day 1 Report
From: Fall City, WA
To: Montesano, WA
Distance: 108 miles
Climbing: 3275 feet
Average Speed: 12.1 mph
We started pretty much on time at 6 a.m. Spirits were high even though one of the first cars we saw drove by with "The Macarena" blaring - we overcame this inauspicious omen. Kevin's friend Jo was our roadie and paparazza today - she took a bunch of pictures that we'll post later. On the way to Seattle and our ferry to Bremerton we met up with Steve, who rode with us until lunchtime.
We made the first ferry with only minutes to spare. Steve was most kind in buying our ferry passage, but for some reason he thought we were going to Bainbridge and he tried really hard to get us to board the wrong boat.
Lunch in Union was Jo's treat - thanks Jo! After lunch Jo and Steve took their leave and we were on our own. We made it to our motel about 6 p.m. then headed over to the pizza joint for dinner, where we met a family of four with two young cyclists and two tandems. They started yesterday from Seattle and are headed to San Franciso. Way to go!
To: Montesano, WA
Distance: 108 miles
Climbing: 3275 feet
Average Speed: 12.1 mph
We started pretty much on time at 6 a.m. Spirits were high even though one of the first cars we saw drove by with "The Macarena" blaring - we overcame this inauspicious omen. Kevin's friend Jo was our roadie and paparazza today - she took a bunch of pictures that we'll post later. On the way to Seattle and our ferry to Bremerton we met up with Steve, who rode with us until lunchtime.
We made the first ferry with only minutes to spare. Steve was most kind in buying our ferry passage, but for some reason he thought we were going to Bainbridge and he tried really hard to get us to board the wrong boat.
Lunch in Union was Jo's treat - thanks Jo! After lunch Jo and Steve took their leave and we were on our own. We made it to our motel about 6 p.m. then headed over to the pizza joint for dinner, where we met a family of four with two young cyclists and two tandems. They started yesterday from Seattle and are headed to San Franciso. Way to go!
Friday, August 1, 2008
Kevin/Alan v. Ewan/Charley
Kevin and I aren't out to compete with anyone. We don't pretend to be doing this tour for any noble cause. That is why we need to put to rest the persistent rumors that by undertaking this tour we are trying to take wind out of the sails of Ewan McGregor and Charley Boorman.
We've got nothing against their pansy motorcycles and entourage. They chose Africa, we stuck closer to home. To each his own. When our documentary comes out, we won't be trying to out-gross them at the box office because we just won't stoop to that level.
There. I feel better having set the record straight about that. One does wonder, though: if one-upmanship is not the motive, what is? I just said goodbye to Ellen, my lovely bride and high school sweetheart, and won't see her again for 3 weeks (thanks, honey, for indulging me!) and I'm sitting here in the San Diego airport wondering why?
For one thing, I've wanted to do this for a long, long time. The original plan was to ride from Canada to Mexico, and dreams of this accompanied those of cycling from coast to coast (I'll do that someday too). I've never cycled "self-supported" but I've enjoyed several week long bicycle tours where vans carried our luggage, and there's no better way to see the world than from the saddle of a bike. By car the world is framed by windshields and B pillars, and by train you're stuck with windows, but not by bike. On a bike no frames separate viewer from viewed. The thought of having everything we need with us on the bike seems to me to season the experience with a little more freedom - I'll let you know if the extra weight we're carrying starts to feel more like gravitational burden.
For another thing, it is nice to know that the only oil I'll be burning is on the flight up.
In any event, I'm excited! I've decided to carry my laptop so that I can blog frequently (no promises - we'll see if that pans out) and at least right now that seems to add to the fun. Blogging is a fascinating phenomenon and Kevin and I are brand new to it. I may even post a video blog or two - cutting edge, eh?
We've got nothing against their pansy motorcycles and entourage. They chose Africa, we stuck closer to home. To each his own. When our documentary comes out, we won't be trying to out-gross them at the box office because we just won't stoop to that level.
There. I feel better having set the record straight about that. One does wonder, though: if one-upmanship is not the motive, what is? I just said goodbye to Ellen, my lovely bride and high school sweetheart, and won't see her again for 3 weeks (thanks, honey, for indulging me!) and I'm sitting here in the San Diego airport wondering why?
For one thing, I've wanted to do this for a long, long time. The original plan was to ride from Canada to Mexico, and dreams of this accompanied those of cycling from coast to coast (I'll do that someday too). I've never cycled "self-supported" but I've enjoyed several week long bicycle tours where vans carried our luggage, and there's no better way to see the world than from the saddle of a bike. By car the world is framed by windshields and B pillars, and by train you're stuck with windows, but not by bike. On a bike no frames separate viewer from viewed. The thought of having everything we need with us on the bike seems to me to season the experience with a little more freedom - I'll let you know if the extra weight we're carrying starts to feel more like gravitational burden.
For another thing, it is nice to know that the only oil I'll be burning is on the flight up.
In any event, I'm excited! I've decided to carry my laptop so that I can blog frequently (no promises - we'll see if that pans out) and at least right now that seems to add to the fun. Blogging is a fascinating phenomenon and Kevin and I are brand new to it. I may even post a video blog or two - cutting edge, eh?
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