Glendora Mountain Road

Abandon Highway 39?

2012-01-29T19:18:00.000-08:00

La Times covered the story of Caltrans who is trying to abandon Highway 39.San Gabriel Tribune and Pasadena Star News ran with this story in October 2011.

Road Love

2012-01-29T17:36:00.000-08:00

Second week of SDSR training. Bill and I walked along Glendora Mountain Road late this afternoon. Lots of shade from a January sun. A perfect day.

Friday and Saturday

2012-01-28T16:28:00.000-08:00

The wind whipped down the canyon at gusts of 20-40 mph. The clouds overhead hid the sun from view. The challenge of staying on the road, and staying upright were paramount to the Friday ride. Pedaling harder with little gain but still making progress put 1/27/2012 in the top ten hardest days on Glendora Mountain Road. Matt, Bill and I rode on. Our fortitude against the invisible force that at times swept us upward and then just as surprisingly pushed us over the edge, kept us strong. At the large turnout near the yellow box, a big gust of wind through dirt and dust into our eyes and mouths. One rider coming down reported it was "Windy at the top". We persevered to Newman's Point. It was an easy decision to head down, but it was not easy to start the downward wending. At the bottom it was a relief to have made it there and back again without incident. Well, almost.

Saturday morning. Pre-ride. My front tire was flat. The wind whipped up all the brush and thorns. One thorn a quarter of an inch was deep in my tire. Bill replaced the tube and the Saturday ride was on.

What a difference a day makes. The winds were calmer and the day gloriously bright and sunny. I thought I saw Ruby fly by and I pursued until my steam ran out. Two back to back days. The wind resistance provided more exercise than I thought from Friday. The muscles said "You want to do what?". The last time I rode back to back was July 4th weekend. Was that an eon ago?

I saw Jason heading down the hill on his green fixie. He turned around and rode with me a piece. We compared our winter exercise strategies. Jason on rollers and I on stationary equipment. We toughed out the winter daylight hours waiting for more daylight hours. While I pedal indoors in the wee early morning hours I watched the 1993 Le Tour de France, the year Miguel Indurain won his third tour. Lance Armstrong, Johann Bruyneel and Bijarne Riis all took a stage that year. So its an exciting tour. Just as we round Coyote Corner a large coyote was on the road. Jason sped up to scare it off. It ran along the yellow line in the middle of the road with Jason in hot pursuit shouting at it. It jumped down to the right then reconsidered and ran back across the road to run up the hillside. At mile marker 10.49 Jason headed back down the mountain.

A fairly quiet Saturday ride after Jason left. Prior to the shed I led a rider up the last incline. Scott past me by and I hung on his wheel up to the shed. Yes I still have a bit of power left on day two. Matt joined in and we chatted with Scott and Alex at the shed. Seven miles does not register as a commute to work, Scott. I am envious. Hopefully the spring daylight will motivate you to ride in the morning.

Register 2012 San Dimas Stage Race

2012-01-23T20:32:00.000-08:00

San Dimas, California (January 23, 2012) - World class professional, talented amateur, and Junior (15-16 & 17-18) cyclists from around the world are signing up to compete in the 13th annual San Dimas Stage Race (SDSR). The highly regarded SDSR, hosted by local bike club SC Velo, is scheduled for March 16th, 17th, and 18th. Three exciting stages of racing are scheduled as well as Kids Races on the last day. Over 800 professional and amateur cyclists are expected to compete for cash prizes.

The race attracts a high caliber of national and international talent drawn by the challenging courses and good weather to sharpen their form at the start of the season. The list of winners includes Olympians, national and world champions from top pro teams: Tom Danielson, Chris Horner, Scott Moninger, and Ben Day. The women’s list is no less impressive: Amber Neben, Ina Yoko Teutenberg, Christine Thorburn, and Lyne Bessette.

Stage 1 consists of individual time trials on a 3.8 mile course that winds its way up Glendora Mountain Road. This stage, sponsored by Chaffey Auto Body, is an individual all out effort by the riders to get the best time up the steepest parts of the Glendora Mountain Road. With the size of the field, it will be a long day of racing, with the first rider starting at 8:00 AM and the last one going out in the late afternoon, the exact time being dependent on the number of riders.

Stage 2 will be a Road Race around Bonelli Park sponsored by San Dimas Hospital. The course is on a rolling and twisting 7 mile circuit which includes a two short, but steep, climbs. The riders will make several loops around the course, with the overall racing distances varying from 28 to 84 miles, depending upon category. The first group starts at 7:55 AM and the last (Pro men) at 1:15 PM. The best spots for viewing the race will be along Puddingstone Avenue at the Start/Finish area and inside Bonelli Park along Via Verde.

Stage 3 is a Criterium around the streets of Old Town San Dimas sponsored by Incycle bike stores and Cannondale bikes. The racers will ride quick loops around a tight, 1.2 mile circuit with 6 sharp corners, for times varying from 25 to 90 minutes depending upon their category. The first group will start at 7:30 AM and the last group will start at 3:00 PM. For spectators, this will be an up-close and fast race, with lots of good viewing spots around the tree lined course.

The Kids Races will be a fun event hosted on Sunday, March 18th, at 12:300 PM in downtown San Dimas. Sponsored by Chaffey Auto Body, the races are free to all children, so get your kids’ bikes out and ready to ride. Please note that helmets are mandatory. Registration for the Kids Races will be held on-site in San Dimas on Sunday morning.

All of these events offer great opportunities for participation by cyclists of all levels, as well as wonderful viewing for cycling fans. There are no fees for spectators, just pick a spot along the race route and be prepared to see some exciting racing. For the photographically inclined, the photo-ops will be unparalleled, with lots of up-close action, so bring your cameras.

Please visit sdsr.info for more information about the race, registration, and lodging. Registration is currently open at Bikereg.com and spots are still available.

SDSR related links:

SC Velo info: SC Velo
SDSR info: SDSR Info
SDSR registration: Register San Dimas Stage Race
Stage 1 Sponsor – Chaffey Auto Body: Chaffey Auto Body
Stage 2 Sponsor - San Dimas Hospital: San Dimas Hospital
Stage 3 Sponsor - Incycle Bicycles: Incycle
Stage 3 Sponsor- Cannondale Bikes: Cannondale Bikes
Kids Races Sponsor – Chaffey Auto Body: Chaffey Auto Body

SDSR Training

2012-01-22T21:38:00.000-08:00

I walked the road Sunday afternoon to prepare for my own San Dimas Stage Race event.The sun was shining and it the weather was perfect for an adventure.If you happened by and want a photo send me an email.

Almost MIA

2012-01-21T18:17:00.000-08:00

Road conditions as of 2 pm: Road dry with only a few shaded patches that were still moist. Only two spots where dirt covered the entire lane. Rocks fist size to baseball size strewn in the road above mile marker 9.06 to 7.00. One rock of notable size.More than half an inch of rain this morning. Caged in the house. I waited. Two o'clock was the sweet spot of the day. Warmth of the sun had dried most of the road. Light vehicle traffic those seeking snow I suspect. Rode on the tail of a MTB to the bottom of Monroe. Then it was solo ride to the top. Six other riders followed me.

More like Winter

2012-01-14T18:54:00.000-08:00

Rode in between this group of cyclists. and by their banter they had a grand time cruising up the hill.

Finally there was a snap in the air with 30% humidity. I might have felt one drop along the way. It has been 29 days since the last rain here in Glendora.

Balboa Island Ray had the intensity and wit to charm everyone.

Clear enough to see most of Catalina Island in the distance. Note the four peaks.

80-60-70

2012-01-09T20:37:00.000-08:00

Pick the season based on the day of the week here in Southern California. The weather has bounced around from the 80s on Wednesday 1/4, 60s on Saturday 1/6, and 70 today 1/10.

Ride to the Right

2012-01-08T20:22:00.000-08:00

Reminder for cyclists to ride to the right of the lane to allow the faster traffic -- cars, motorcycles and faster cyclists -- the center of the lane. When riding side by side shift into single file before the faster traffic arrives.

This is winter?

2012-01-05T20:26:00.000-08:00

It was a sunny and warm winter day, so of course I headed for GMR. My time to the shed was a bit slower than usual because I decided to go up in some higher gears. There were a few other riders on the road, as well as some skate boarders, but almost no motor vehicle traffic. The attached picture shows my Garmin and my stem cap thermometer when I was stopped at the shed. The altitude shown on the Garmin is a bit low - it usually reads about 3500' - because of the air pressure is up a bit from normal and that affects the
Garmin's barometric altimeter. In any case, you'll note that the temperature is a tad over 80 degrees - Southern California winters are really severe!

Rose Parade East

2012-01-02T08:37:00.000-08:00

The Stealth Bomber from the Rose Parade cruised east from Pasadena and turned North about Glendora Avenue.

Happy New Year. Drive Safe. Ride Safe. Stay Upright.

Bill's Photo Details:
Camera: Canon 7D (18 mp)
Lens: Canon 100 - 400 mm Zoom at 350 mm
(560 mm 35 mm equivalent)
Shot at ISO 400, 1/1000 shutter speed, & F10 aperture

Last Ride of 2011

2011-12-30T21:23:00.000-08:00

I chose Friday for the potential quietness on the road and was rewarded with light traffic with the bonus of riding with Cathy and Craig. Matt and Bill were in close pursuit. The last ride of 2011.

Last Rides of the Year

2011-12-28T20:22:00.000-08:00

After a week of no riding, Saturday, Monday and Wednesday have been exceptional. Three rides to the shed. Plenty of sun. Saturday was windy. Monday plenty of traffic with everyone off for holiday. Wednesday blissfully quiet. The big news on Wednesday's ride was a helicopter and emergency vehicles attending to a bicyclist down on Highway 39 at mile marker 21.25 around 10:52 am.

Pre-Winter

2011-12-17T16:03:00.000-08:00

Cloudy with a chance of chicken soup. Yesterday was sun and bright sky however strong winds kept me inside. Today a 20% chance of rain was not going to stop me on my one day to really ride. The winter solstice is fast approaching the shortest day of the year, we are "half way through the dark."

Toy Ride 2011

2011-12-06T20:20:00.001-08:00

San Dimas, California (December 5, 2011) – The Southern California Velo Cycling Club(SC Velo) and Incycle Bicycle Stores sponsored Christmas Toy Ride was held onDecember 4, 2011.

Toys that were collected at the 4Incycle Bicycle stores since the weekend after Thanksgiving were taken to theSan Dimas Sheriff’s station so that they can be distributed to needy families.

A large and varied assortment oftoys donated by cyclists from all over the region were delivered to theSherriff’s station on Sunday morning. Inaddition to the toys, an SC Velo member donated 4 bikes and Incycle Bicycle stores, working with theirlocal Specialized Bikes representative, donated 20 bikes to bring the total to24 donated bikes that will brighten many local children’s Christmases.

All of the toys and bikes will bedelivered to children of needy families by deputies from the Los Angeles CountySheriff’s San Dimasstation.

Contact:
Bill McCusker
Bill@McCusker.org

Bill's Ride 12/06/2011

2011-12-06T20:15:00.001-08:00

Other than the cold - it was 38 degrees when I woke this morning - it was a nice day for a ride. I waited for the temperature to get into the 50's before I set out. The ride was uneventful, saw a few cars, some skate boarders, and about 6 other riders. As usual of late, it was nice going up, but pretty chilly coming down. I did take a couple of pictures of "Nessie" surfacing in San Gabriel Dam #1.

Tranquility 12/2/2011

2011-12-02T16:19:00.001-08:00

Perfect day for a ride. Warm weather. Light winds. Tranquil Road. Left late enough in the morning to enjoy the full warmth of the sun. Late enough that the pummeling of Santa Ana winds one day prior roared at 50-97 mph fizzled into mere wisps of their ferocious selves. Late enough to see a large group of skate boarders done for the day. Late enough to enjoy the good will of those skate boarders who swept the road. Yes the road was pristine clean from bottom of Monroe to Coyote Corner (~ mile marker 10.78). Clear of tumble weeds, leaves, sticks, dirt and rocks. Thank you! Cleaner than many residential roads littered with palm fronds, leaves, seed pods, my own street included.

Tranquility. The number of vehicles on the road, I counted on one hand. While the outside world was tranquil the heart pumped, the lungs burst, the legs churned, and the eyes popped. Perfect ride. Solo.

The story of the day was of Ian and Kevin. Ian took the twists at 10.20 the reverse camber curve a bit too fast. He was one lucky dude as the car skidded into the berm. Lucky he was not an over the side statistic. Hope to see you two on bicycles next time. If not, remember the first run go slow and learn what's on the road. The most important thing is "Keep the cyclists alive".

Santa Ana Winds

2011-12-01T17:21:00.001-08:00

The Santa Ana winds have kicked up dust in the air. Lots of trees on the ground. Power lines down. No electricity from 2 am to 8 am.

Bill's Ride 11/30/2011

2011-11-30T20:18:00.001-08:00

Bill and Hillbasher were out on the road today. Different times. Here is Bill's report.

This morning was another great time to ride up GMR.
Clear skies, mild temperatures, and a lightly trafficked
road made for a very nice ride. I did see a few other
folks on the road, about a dozen bike riders including
3 SC Velo and 4 Adobo Velo riders, along with a few
skate boarders and several motor vehicles of various
sorts.

I observed one car that was hauling a couple of skate
boarders up to their launch spots making stops along
the road to clean up gravel and debris - I thanked them
for their efforts because they were helping all of us that
were out on the road today.

My ride was very pleasant and uneventful. I did improve
on my ride time from home to the shed by 3 minutes, due
in the most part to the higher gears I have been pushing
the last several trips up the hill. My "training" plan is to
keep working my way up through higher gears every few
weeks to build my leg strength and my speed. So far
it is working.

Bill's Ride 11/28/2011

2011-11-28T20:15:00.001-08:00

This morning's weather was pretty good when I left home at 8:45.
There was some overcast and a temperature of about 55 degrees.
GMR was almost deserted, I encountered only four other cyclists
and three cars as I made my way up the hill. The visibility down
into the basin was good, so I took a couple of pictures of L.A.'s tall
buildings. Coming down was fast and tearless - my new glasses
keep the wind away from my eyes so I do not tear up when I exceed
25 MPH like I did with my previous glasses..

Thanksgiving Weekend 11/24-11/27

2011-11-27T16:31:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving Day was for turkey and family.
Friday - Mystic Canyon and met Carlos the hunter.
Saturday - Enjoyed the crowd. Hung onto a couple of riders from 10.49 to 8.44. Met folks from Orange County enjoying the mountain climb. Descended with Bill until first saddle where we met group Beanz and Hillbasher and enjoyed a bit of a hill repeat. Nice to have a little gas in the tank. Why did I wear a jacket on the descent?
Sunday - Mystic Canyon hike. Blue sky. Good to be outdoors.

Wednesday 11/23/2011

2011-11-23T18:02:00.001-08:00

Glorious. One of the remaining few days for a mid-week ride. Work let out early, if you are wondering. The afternoon was warm when I started around 2:45 pm. The road was quiet, quiet, quiet. Very few gutsy folks out riding. Just me, road, breathing, no thinking a solo ride.

Descending reminded me that there are "54F" reasons why most cyclists have ended their season. The sun sets quickly and so does the temperature. Yep, toe-biting cold on the way down at 25-30 mph. Glad to have the knee warmers, head band, base layer and jacket. It is the warm feeling of a "quart" endorphins in the tank with 786 Kcal burned, 17,270 heart beats pumped, 21.3 miles ridden, and 2621 feet climbed. Total odometer for the bike is 6,576 miles. Thanksgiving here I come.

Bill's Ride 11/22/2011

2011-11-22T20:04:00.001-08:00

Bill's report:

It was pretty cool this morning, so I waited for it to warm up
to 50 degrees before I set out for GMR. The nice thing about
riding on weekdays is that there aren't very many other folks
on the road. I expected to see some skate boarders because
the local schools are closed this week, but none were to be
seen. Maybe it was too cold for them. I did see a few other
cyclists, maybe 8 all told.

I pushed a bigger gear that usual, so my legs were ready for a
break by the time I got to the shed. Coming back was pleasant,
cool - the temperature was up to 65 degrees - but not so much
so that I needed a jacket or arm warmers for the descent.
I did take a few pictures that I used to make a panorama.

Indoor Trainer

2011-11-21T20:58:00.001-08:00

Desperation has set in and the indoor Cycleops trainer has been dusted off and rev'd up.

Better Late 11/19/2011

2011-11-19T20:00:00.001-08:00

Started later than usual at 10:30 am when a bit of sun came out. Quiet cold morning with grey layer of rain clouds ready to drop

Bill's Day Out 11/17/2011

2011-11-17T19:50:00.001-08:00

This morning was ideal for riding - sunny, clear and just
a bit on the cool side. When I went out around 8:30 the
temperature was about 55 degrees. GMR was almost
deserted, I saw only two cars and five other cyclists as I
made my way up to the shed. I went on up a bit farther
to the wall by the top of Monroe Truck Trail to take a
couple of pictures. By the time I was ready to come
down, the temperature had gotten up to 70 degrees.
That made for a comfortable descent.

Ron and Ray

2011-11-17T19:43:00.001-08:00

Ron and Ray took the SGRT to Seal and Huntington Beach. A short little jaunt of 106 miles or so.

http://connect.garmin.com/activity/129162277

Ron states it "Was Fun!!"

Tuesday with Bill 11/15/2011

2011-11-15T20:43:00.001-08:00

It was a nice clear, albeit cool, morning. Great for riding. I took off around 8:30 and headed up GMR. The road started off pretty quiet, very little vehicle traffic and just three other cyclists that passed me (of course) on their way up the hill. After a while, the road got busier, several motorcycles passed me going up and a group of skate boarders passed me going down. As I neared Newman's Point I became aware of some spoke "chatter" from my rear wheel - one or more of them were probably a bit loose. I stopped at Newman's for a quick check and decided that I would head home and do some spoke "tuning" in the comfort of my garage. The descent was cool and uneventful. I did see several more riders coming up to enjoy the day. I'll probably be back up again Thursday and I will see if my spoke adjustments have been effective.

Sunday December 4th Ride with Beanz

2011-11-13T16:58:00.001-08:00

Ride with Beanz and Hillbasher on Sunday December 4, 2011

Glendora High School
241 S Valley Center Ave
Glendora, CA 91741
Time: 9:00 am

Application Form
1) Do you need SAG?
A) No, my bike is roadworthy and I know how to fix a flat, perform minor repairs and I will carry spare tubes, tyres, CO2s, etc.
B) No, if I get a flat I'll walk back to my car (what's SAG by the way?).
C) Hell no! SAG is for sissies.

2) Do you think any person other than yourself should be responsible for your safety?
A) No, I've been over 18 for the past 30 years or so.
B) The only person responsible for my safety is the one that I see in the mirror.
C) Hell no! I'll be wearing a helmet which protects against any and all evils.

3) Will you ride in any weather conditions?
A) No, I'm not stupid.
B) Hell no! And I'm the one who decides if the weather conditions are suitable for riding in the mountain.
C) No, I'm a wuss like JimmyNH and I ride only in good weather conditions.

4) Do you mind if Mr. Beanz captures you in his video?
A) Hell no! Actually that's why I'm doing the ride.
B) No, Mr. Beanz makes the coolest videos with the coolest music background.
C) No, I'm too ugly to have my picture taken anyway.

5) Are you afraid of wild animals that you might encounter on GMR?
A) No, the noise from cars and motorcycles keeps the wild animals away from the road.
B) Hell no! I can outrun a mountain lion and wrestle a bear.
C) Hell no! I'll carry protection in my back pocket.

RSVP to bikeforums.net -- Ride with Beanz

GMR Trifecta 11/12 - 11/13

2011-11-13T05:43:00.001-08:00

The lure of the road outweighed the dark clouds after a week of no biking. The ascent by the ranger station felt new and challenging. As I approached the bottom of Monroe the drops poured gently down. Enough to remind me how wet everything gets as wheels kick the water up your seat. I headed down and the speed of downhill and droplets were enough to indicate that was a good decision. I cycled around the drier parts of Glendora over to Palm Drive and up Kregmont to Twelve House Hill with its 9.7% grade. Back around to Sierra Madre hang with the Tour Du Foothill riders for a few blocks. A race marshal on bike was stopped and searching his playlist to find "climbing music" for the next 9 miles. I consider coyote howls, crickets chirping and lizards, squirrels and birds digging through brush music to climb by. Ranger Station pass 2 -- a couple of cyclists stopped on the road by the ranger station were impressed as I spun by. The rain capes were the fashion of the TdF riders. I again gave up before the bottom of Monroe.

I left my cycling clothes on for Saturday afternoon and waited out the weather. After errands and lunch -- the need for altitude was strong. I headed out again. The droplets caressed the pavement on Sierra Madre, I nearly turned around twice. Above Sierra Madre was dry. Third time up the forestry curve my legs were feeling it. Perhaps I had done more than perceived in the morning. It was a fairly dry ride up Saturday afternoon. The rain waited until the first saddle. I had sun and rain at the same time. Downhill felt good. The heavy jacket and windbreaker were good protection for the descent.

Of course Sunday morning was stunning for Group Beanz. Bill took off for his ride this morning.

Ray and I rode Sunday afternoon. What a pleasure to ride the road on a beautiful sunny day with perfect temperatures. I could have left that backpack at home! Yahooie! Ride your Bike.

Carmichael on Training Indoors

2011-11-12T07:11:00.001-08:00

As I sit and gauge the weather I am betting the clouds will hold their "rainy tongues" and I can get one day in on Glendora Mountain Road this week. Inspired by the words from the Carmichael folks, I may need to put a training DVD on my Christmas list. Read on.

Indoor training season is upon us and although I’d rather we’d all rather be riding outside, the truth of the matter is you can make huge gains with relatively short workouts on the trainer. Below I’ve included a few tips for maximizing your time on the trainer.

I’m excited for the winter because two days ago our newest workout DVD arrived in the office. It’s a great one-hour workout featuring a mix of short, maximal efforts and longer lactate threshold efforts. If you do group rides or any type of road, cross, or mountain bike racing it’s exactly the type of workout you need. And since it’s the 2011 Amgen Tour of California Workout DVD, you get to relive the excitement of the 2011 ATOC on top of doing a great workout! (Click to watch a preview clip)

Another reason I have DVDs on my mind is that I was in the studio yesterday doing my on-screen portions for our next training DVD, an 85-minute climbing workout that features four of the biggest climbs from the 2011 USA Pro Cycling Challenge – including tons of footage that was never seen during the television coverage! It’s a great workout – the longest one we’ve ever put on a DVD - and it will be available next month.

There are a few tips and guidelines I want to remind you of as you go into the indoor cycling season:

1. Indoor training still has to be progressive: You can’t just do the same DVD time and time again and expect to continually get better. Training DVDs can be mixed and matched to plug into a training schedule just like any other workouts, and you have to look at the energy systems being stressed in the workout, group DVDs with similar physical demands together into training blocks, and structure your indoor training so you’re gradually increasing your weekly workload. (Click here to view the Train Right Guide to Indoor Training, a 6-week training program that features recommended DVD substitutions for each workout)

2. Don’t forget recovery: Some people think that since most indoor cycling workouts are only 60-75 minutes, you need to do one every day of the week in order to accumulate enough workload to see an improvement. But the one-hour trainer workouts are typically more intense than your normal outdoor rides, so you’re getting a big training stimulus in a short period of time. You need to recover from these efforts in order to adapt. Even if you’re only relying on indoor workouts for your winter training, I would recommend a maximum of 5 interval-based indoor sessions (most athletes should only do 3-4).

3. Airflow is crucial: If you’re going to spend a lot of time on a trainer, invest in three fans. I recommend directing one at your face (or at least across your head), one at the front of your torso, and one at your back. Indoors it’s ridiculously easy to overheat, which throws your sweat response into hyperdrive and increases the stress you’re putting on your body. That additional stress makes it more difficult to recover between workouts and hinders your ability to adapt and make progress.

All Train Right DVD titles – including both the 2010 and 2011 Tour of California workout DVDs – are available at: http://trainright.com/media-2. And if you’ve moved on from physical DVDs, we now have 27 titles available as video downloads! They’re available right on the same page.

Through the winter, indoor training can be immensely valuable. On average, athletes see a 13% increase in max sustainable power just from using the 16-session Progressive Power Series over an 8-week period. When you add in additional sessions and extrapolate the impact over 4+ months, your potential for performance improvement this winter is absolutely incredible. So get on it!Sincerely,

Check out bikeforums.net in the

2011-11-11T08:20:00.001-08:00

Check out bikeforums.net in the SoCal section. Sunday DEC 4TH will have a group going up GMR if it doesnt rain. OC Rebels as well.

Monday with Bill

2011-11-07T20:06:00.000-08:00

It was a very clear and sunny, albeit cool, morning so off I went on a ride up GMR. The ride up was slow but good and the descent coming back down was fast and cold - I am still thawing out! Photo from the top of Monroe Truck Trail.

Those retirees can ride when they want!

Saturday 11/05/2011

2011-11-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

Saturday dawned clear and cold. It was 39F and I waited until it warmed up to 42F. The muscles responded slowly in the cold.Group Beanz ranks swelled with eager cyclists. Ready to crank up the hill laughing all the way.

Ron and Dixie rode Death Valley. which feels a whole lot warmer than home.

For me the magic was snow on Baldy.

Last Chance

2011-11-02T18:54:00.000-07:00

Tonight was the last Wednesday of Day Light Savings Time. Weather was clear with light winds. Not alot of traffic. Five cyclists descending. I was the last one on the mountain. I enjoyed every pedal stroke.

Larry on the road 10/29/2011

2011-10-30T19:37:00.000-07:00

It was amazing to meet folks of all walks of life on the road. Larry full of energy for a seventy year old road up Glendora Mountain Road on Saturday to enjoy the sun and the superb climb. Really Larry you looked fifty.

My buns of steel felt like marshmallows while my legs consisted of rubber. All due to a cold I was fighting. The sun felt good all through my bones. The towers of Los Angeles visible in the distance. The islands in the reservoir more exposed than last week. The long range weather forecast may include drizzle next week. Good to enjoy the vistas in the warmth of October.

Last A** Up the Pass 10/24/2011

2011-10-24T20:25:00.000-07:00

Monday night on Glendora Mountain Road. Fewer folks than last Tuesday night. The crickets chirped louder than before. It was a last minute decision to ride. I'm leaving work early. Nope I'm not. Yes, I got home with about an hour of day light. All Systems are a go. Launched. Legs felt good. Race to the Sun. Saw one other cyclist at the electronic sign already heading home.

The hunters get my appreciation tonight. At the first saddle there was a dark image sitting on the wall. It was Diego in camouflage and dark face paint. He asked if I had a flat. Nope just throwing on knee warmers and jacket before the descent. I chatted with him and he had praise for Matthew. He's a great guy. I chuckled. If you took a poll of the people - hunters, cyclists, motorcyclists, runners, etc. on GMR 85-92% know Matt.

That was only the first positive. The second positive was a Suburban pulled up and two hunters asked if I was ok. I appreciated their concern with the dark enshrouding the road quickly.

Me, I appreciated having a disk in my camera.

Saturday Ride 10/22/2011

2011-10-23T21:02:00.000-07:00

Good weather. Good day to see friends. Jason and Michael. Hung onto to Ruby's wheel to the shed. Rode up to Glendora Ridge Road mile marker 8.3. Talked to Ron at Fork plus six. And Everest Challenge Jason at Newmans. The island is showing in the reservoir.

Sna Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Assessment

2011-10-22T21:00:00.000-07:00

It is with great pleasure that the National Park Service offers to you for review and comment, the Draft San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resources Study and Environmental Assessment. The NPS initiated this special resource study in 2005 and published preliminary management alternatives in August 2009. This study represents your involvement and input into the planning process. The approaches to management and underlying values all reflect what you proposed or supported and concerns that you raised.

Comments Welcomed
The executive summary, full report, and link to the NPS online public comment system are available at the study web site: http://www.nps.gov/pwro/sangabriel/index.htm. If you requested a copy of the full study report or a CD ROM, they will be mailed to by the end of October. A Spanish version of the executive summary will soon be available on the web site as well.

Comments on the draft study report must be submitted by December 16, 2011. Your continued involvement will assist the National Park Service in determining which alternative to recommend as the most effective and efficient in protecting significant resources and providing for visitor enjoyment in the study area. Please note that our offices moved from Oakland to San Francisco in August 2011. All written comments should be submitted to our new address:

National Park Service - Planning and Environmental Compliance
San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study
333 Bush Street, Suite 500
San Francisco, CA 94104

Public Meetings
The NPS will host a series of public meetings throughout the study area in October and November 2011 in order to present the draft study report, answer questions, and accept comments. The first public meeting, October 29th in El Monte, will serve as the kick-off meeting for the public review period. The NPS will present the study findings and alternatives and answer questions about the draft study. There will also be opportunities to provide comments.

Public meeting locations and times include:
El Monte (Kick-Off Meeting)
Saturday, October 29
1pm - 3 pm
City of El Monte Senior Center
3120 N. Tyler Avenue
El Monte, CA 91731
Palmdale
Monday, November 14
7pm - 9pm
Larry Chimbole Cultural Center,
Joshua Room
38350 Sierra Highway
Palmdale, CA 93550
Pomona
Tuesday, November 15th
7pm - 9pm
Agriscapes Center, California Polytechnic Institute Campus
4102 S. University Drive (South of Temple Avenue)
(From Highway 57, Exit Temple Avenue and go West towards Cal Poly Pomona. Turn left on South Campus Drive, Agriscapes is the building adjacent to the Farm Store).Pomona, CA 91768
Santa Clarita
Wednesday, November 16th
7pm - 9pm
George A. Caravalho Activities Center
Santa Clarita Room A
20880 Centre Point Parkway
Santa Clarita, CA 91351
Tujunga
Thursday, November 17th
7pm - 9pm
Northeast Valley City Hall Auditorium
7747 Foothill Blvd
Tujunga, CA 91042
Thank you for your interest in the National Park Service's San San Gabriel Watershed and Mountains Special Resource Study.
Sincerely
NPS Study Team

On the Road with Bill 10/19/2011

2011-10-19T19:43:00.000-07:00

Bill got out on the road and zoomed up to the shed with other cyclists from SC Velo.

The sunshine looks good to those of us working stiffs in buildings without windows.

Saturday on GMR/GRR 10/15/2011

2011-10-15T17:16:00.000-07:00

The Mount Baldy Lodge Store saves souls every day with delicious refreshing, thirst quenching, ice chilled drinks and munchables. Spencer and Graham this one is for you!

Strong ride to Baldy Saturday. The mountains were clear while the valley remained under a marine layer. The temperature mildly warm starting in the 60s warming to the 80s. Not overly hot. Provisioned two water bottles plus one more with Heed. Started at 7:30 am and left Bill around the Dalton Hot Shots Forest Ranger Station. It was a solo ride to the shed with a few folks passing me by on the way up. In the no man's land between first saddle and Newman's Point, one rider inspired the legs to kick it up a notch. During the last ascent to the shed that 8% climb of a few hundred feet another rider went by and I hung on, I should have passed, but didn't want to burn that match quite yet. Plenty of miles to go. It was a lively pace to end the first leg of the trip. I wanted a quick break. Eat a bar, slurp up some water. Watch a few arrivees. Just as I wanted to leave, I was asked to take a picture with a cell phone. I acquiesced. The fellow was happy. Matt showed up needing a break to catch his breath.

The shed represents ~25% of the journey or 10 miles out of 46. The next twelve miles on Glendora Ridge Road are four miles of rolling hills with four "peaks" the fourth peak being the point of no return. A steep descent to Peacock Saddle and then the start of 3.3 miles of the Reward Climb, with the next three miles of the alpine section of rolling ascents. The final mile is a steep descent into the village. Remember what goes up must go down. Easy to descend, Killer to climb back up. I made a record time from garage door to the Baldy Stop Sign of 3 hours 14 minutes. I had motivators on the GRR section. One hunter's Dodge RAM 2500 had a nasty smell to its exhaust, and it was meandering up the road, stopping multiple times. I wanted to be ahead of that tank as much as possible. I rode as fast I as could. The GRR leg was 1:25 for 12 miles at altitude. In the Alpine section taking pictures of the autumn colors Rick caught us and rode with us to the Village.

I bought a deliciously cold Red Powerade at the Mt Baldy Lodge Store and peanuts. Spencer and Graham cajoled me about not featuring the store on my blog. I snapped their picture in front of the store. Filled one water bottle at the Post Office. Headed back. Time in the Village 28 minutes. Reverse the course took just under 2 hours. Rick parted company in the alpine section. Matt raced home after the climb back up to the point of no return. Total time was 5:40. Total Distance 46.1 miles. Ascent 5200 feet. Saw a few folks in passing Shawn of broccoli fame, Jason of Everest Challenge, and Group Beanz. I was on the clock to get done. Last week was a week for chatting. This Saturday was a day for riding.

Strong Ride to Baldy. Even though I had a flu shot. Tightening the core muscles helps with the knee.

Catching up with Bill

2011-10-13T20:08:00.001-07:00

Bill completed a loop up GMR down to East Fork. Down 39 and back on Sierra Madre.

Bill tried the make your own bars.

Yummy.

A little FryDaddy and Beanz

2011-10-11T21:47:00.000-07:00

April 1, 2011

Evening Ride

2011-10-10T21:08:00.000-07:00

The sun retreats earlier every night. Out on the wheels before 6 pm, The body responds with the ache of sitting all day but good overall. Eight or ten cyclists head for home as I begin my journey. One more ride before the time change. My title is last bike up tonight short lived as Suzy heads up the road as I descend. The full moon helps on the way down along with my night light. Coyote alert as I rounded a blind right hand turn around mile marker 11.39. Coyote climbs the cliff side as I slow down. I ride down a bit more alert for other creatures along the way. Spotted a large owl flapping noiselessly between oaks. A good ride. A better mood.

Connections

2011-10-08T20:23:00.000-07:00

Toe chilling to start the temperature was 52F. But as soon as you round the first hair pin turn and start the real climb the sun streams down on you warm and intense. Connecting with friends today along the way. Friends rendezvoused at the shed. Matt. Eric. Bill. Hadn't seen Eric in ages. Eric and I were recovering from other non-cycling exercising. New muscles were screaming at us. Eric headed for Baldy. Bill headed down. Matt and I went a little farther. Chatted with Rick at Fork plus one. Needed to scoop on Greg. Kids. Work. Kids finding jobs. Steve Jobs and Al Davis passing. Made it to the Experimental Forest Sign.

On the way down at second saddle. Caught sight of Gina. Then Mr. Beanz and Hillbasher. It was a film fest. Except my data was lost in digital translation. No photos. No videos. Nada. Nothing. Nil. Zip.

Hillbasher asked why I rarely reference Peacock Saddle with is Fork Plus 4.5 miles. Truth be it, I rarely stop in the valley. The peak at Fork Plus Four is called the "Point of No Return". I have to be in the mood for that climb back up to mile marker 4.0 on Glendora Ridge Road. It is a tough son of a gun.

Bill had great karma with his camera. This picture is his from today.

Evidence that I took pictures. Care of Mr. Beanz Productions:

From Hillbasher! Two out of three cameras worked. Matt, Beanz, GMR

Symmetry

2011-10-07T21:15:00.000-07:00

Riding home in the dark of the evening on Thursday the street illuminated in the beam of my head lamp. The road conditions on GMR were dry after the Wednesday deluge of 1.5 inches of rain. Only one sandy area that blanketed both lanes occurred at the Colby hair pin. Traffic was mostly light however more parked cars along the turnouts. Couples enjoying the cloak of evening perhaps.

The symmetry of the evening was balanced with the early morning exercise in the predawn darkness of 5 am. I saw more wildlife in the city than I did the forest. In the morning I had turned onto Cullen avenue heading north, when an undulating critter stopped mid way in the road. Alert and aware of my oncoming progress. It turned to gauge my approach. A squirrel perhaps, no. it was bigger than a squirrel, a possum perhaps, no its long flowing tail with luxurious hair worthy of petting. I moved forward with the thought my presence would encourage it to skitter into the shelter of bushes. NO! Identification occurred and I high tailed it southward in the opposite direction. Skunk! I circled the block and was ready to try a northern route once more. As I turned the corner another critter larger than before, longer leaner legs, interested in the comings and goings, alert and hungry looking for smaller animals that moved. A coyote! Once again, I turned southward and looped back to my house in the clock of early morning dark. Bike or foot the road was dark.

Build Your Own Bar

2011-10-05T20:51:00.000-07:00

Having trouble finding your favorite brand of bar? Do you have a special dietary concern? Need a bar customized for you? Check out these two websites: You Bar and Element Bars. These companies have options to customize a power bar for you. Tons of choices. Soy or whey protein? Cherries or Dates? Nuts or seeds? So many choices. What are your performance needs: endurance? performance? antioxidants? focus on your brain-memory? These sites can build a bar do it all.

Here's a drive of GMR that I may be using to pedal indoors this winter. GMR

Leadville 2012

2011-10-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

I watched the 2010 Leadville 100 Mountain Bike Race from DVD on Sunday. That was the year Levi Leipheimer blew away the recently set record time that Lance Armstrong set in 2009. Leadville Colorado at 10,152 feet above sea level traverses 100 miles in an out and back challenge with 12,000 feet of ascent with forest, twin lakes, the pipeline, the powerline and little oxygen. The personal stories of the men and women who take part in this epic adventure are tales of determination, fortitude and true grit.

If you need help on achieving this awesome goal, Chris Carmichael has a team to help you train. And now is the time to start.

2012 CTS Leadville 100 Coaching/Camp Package Lotteries

OVERVIEW
To maximize the improvements you can achieve in endurance, power, and weight management, CTS is proud to offer a limited number of Leadville 100 Coaching Packages that start in November 1, 2011 and include a guaranteed entry into the 2012 Leadville Trail 100 Mountain Bike Race.

This lottery is open to all athletes through October 31, 2011. Pricing and information available below. Call 866-355-0645 with questions. Complete details and rules/regulations available here.

TWO WAYS TO GET READY FOR LEADVILLE!
Option 1: CTS LT100 Premium Package
With this coaching package you’ll be paired with an experienced CTS Coach who has specific knowledge and experience with the Leadville 100 Mountain Bike Race. Your training plan will be hand-built one month at time – and adjusted every week as necessary - based on your progress and ongoing phone and email communication between you and your coach. Your training plan and training log will be available and can be updated online and via smartphone applications, and your coach will also analyze and utilize data from your power meter, heart rate monitor, GPS unit, etc. to monitor and adjust your training. Price: $288/month*

Option 2: CTS LT100 Ultimate PackageThe Ultimate package is the most comprehensive way to prepare for the Leadville 100. You’ll work with a coach hand-selected by Chris Carmichael for his or her LT100-specific experience and expertise at the Ultimate service level – an upgrade from the Premium service level featuring increased responsiveness and nutrition analysis. And for 2 ½ days in July 2012 you’ll join the CTS Coaches for our proven Reconnaissance & Training Camp on the Leadville 100 course. These coveted camp slots sell out in minutes, but through this exclusive package you are guaranteed a camp slot at a significantly discounted price. Price: $620/month (includes coaching and discounted camp fees)* *plus LT100 Mountain Bike Race Entry Fee

HOW THE CTS LOTTERY WILL WORK1. Click on the button below to go to the CTS Online Store. Click the Leadville tab and add your choice of LT100 Coaching/Camp options to your shopping cart. Registering for both will increase your chances of being selected, but you will only be selected for one package. You must register for the deadline by 12:00 AM MST on Monday, October 31.

2. Click the Checkout button, enter your contact and billing information, and check out. Your credit card will be authorized to make sure it’s a valid card, but you will not be charged any money at all for registering for the CTS Lottery.

3. On October 31, we will draw names. If you are selected for one of these Coaching/Camp Packages, your credit card will immediately be charged for the first month package fee, coaching registration fee, and LT100 entry fee. See FAQ below for pricing details, initial charges and monthly charges.

4. CTS will notify all athletes who registered for the CTS Lottery of their status on Monday, October 31, 2011.

“Over the past two years, CTS has helped me take more than two hours off my LT100 time! Your expertise before the race, and the support during, have been crucial to my success. Thanks!” - Jeff C.

Race to the Sun

2011-10-03T20:40:00.000-07:00

Sunlight a precious commodity nowadays spurs the legs into higher gear. Reached the first saddle in good time. The plentiful vehicle traffic kept the forest denizens at bay. You know when you burn more calories downhill than you do uphill it must be a change in seasons.

Motivation

2011-10-02T08:23:00.000-07:00

Saturday awoke to clear skies dotted with a few waning clouds colored orange with sunrise. The spring like temperature of 62 promised warmth and boasted blue skies for a rare autumn day. The sunlight picked up the spirits after a week long string of grey marine layer mornings on the morning commute. Mostly single riders on the road as Bill and I arrived around 8:15 to the road. I picked up the pace at the base of the first climb by the Dalton Hot Shot Ranger Station.

It was a solo ride for those of us on the road. The reward was written on the mountains. The lure of clear air, warm sun and a gentle breeze made perfect weather conditions for a long ride. Catalina was visible in the distance. The strength of legs, self and bike -- it felt great to be alive and in the mountains riding. As the heart and lungs pounded I enjoyed the freedom of solo pedaling.

Scott zipped by me after the feedzone. "Shake a leg, GMR!" Jolted me and spurred me out of my comfort zone. Did I see 9.3 mph? I closed the gap but not enough. I was chasing Scott and it felt good. The visual of Scott in the lead helped me visualize where I wanted to be. By the time I arrived at the shed, the morning spring temperatures had heated up to summer levels. Spoke with one guy from San Marino, who had a planned group ride that had gone astray.

I felt like going on to fork plus four, six or seven, however the reality was the day was hotter than I planned for, water was the limiting factor. I pedalled out to Fork plus Four at my own pace having achieved my goal to the shed. I soaked up the scenery and the air and the rays. Decided to sit at the wall at the Point of No Return when Ron rode up. Damn Ron is nearly back to his pre-crash riding levels. Wow.

Ron and I headed back the same way, but I had photos to take, he powered his way up the first hill. I again enjoyed my own pace with no pressures to keep up stopping for photos and really just dallying to enjoy riding.

On the return visit to the shed meet Shawn who enjoys fresh vine ripened produce. We talked tomatos, brussel sprouts and pumpkins.

Matt on vacation was motivated to train his bicep.

Cheers!

Monday Night

2011-09-26T21:22:00.000-07:00

Left at 6:09 pm. I rode to catch the waning rays while the dark encroached upon the day. Not many evenings left. Even with the new night light.

Double Double

2011-09-24T21:35:00.000-07:00

It was a glorious weekend of riding. Friday the three of us Steve, Bill and I had a leisurely ride to the shed. Quiet road. Very few folks coming or going. Warm weather with sun and blue sky. A very even tempo to activate the muscles without over exerting Steve before his Sunday LA Triathlon. Rock on Steve.

Saturday was diametrically opposite to Friday. Overcast, cool. Plenty of folks coming and going. Faster pace. Marty of Riverside Bicycle Club caught me about two miles into the mountain and then kept me challenged to shed. Awesome ride, chatting, catching up on life and the challenges that the Fall season brings. Excellent time to shed. It's great to have camaraderie that keeps you up beat, up tempo and concentrating on conversation and not the muscles.

Thinking of fall, those of you who like the comfort of indoors may heed the lure of the track at the Velodrome. RBC is looking for folks who would like to take the certification class. The more the merrier, and the price of the instructor goes down as well. Just drop Marty an email.

Thinking it was a perfect ride, all you have to do is sail home, you meet a legend. A survivor of unbelievable odds. John who flirted with destiny on 04/25/2010 at mile marker 10.20 where he collided with a car travelling 45 miles per hour while he was doing 25 miles per hour. Amazing recovery, I see John ride every Saturday morning. John - Peter - Melissa - Tammy.

More coming.

Back to Back

2011-09-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

Bill rode around Bonelli this morning capturing the beauty of the birds.

I decided to ride a second day in a row. Not far. Not fast. Just do it!

Ride with Steve

2011-09-20T20:43:00.000-07:00

Note the stylish new gloves that Steve bought at Incycle for 15% off today. Incycle has a great end of summer sale so check it out and stock up.

My triathlete brother-in-law Steve is in town for the LA Triathlon. He is fit and ready to race. Delayed by traffic coming home we started at 6:05 pm. Burning daylight. It needed to be fast and furious. Then I thought when is Steve going to slow down? Never! It was a fast paced ride and my best ride for the year. Cool temperature. No traffic for our leg of the mountain. I did run over a small snake on the way up. I didn't see it until it was too late. I looked for the snake on the way down and couldn't find it. Perhaps I was light enough that it survived and wiggled away.

Ecstatic. Euphoric. Elated. Energized. Ebullient. and Exhilarated. Enough! I had a great ride.

Fall

2011-09-18T21:22:00.000-07:00

You can feel it in the mornings and the evenings. The sun is rising later and setting earlier. The marine layer lingers longer and the daylight is dwindling faster. It is a time of change. the colors on trees and the headlights on the bike. Autumn. A season of change. Lance Armstrong's coach Chris Carmichael - Trainright has tips to approach the new season:

1. All the fitness, none of the pressure: Think about your fitness right now. You’re strong from a season’s worth of training and racing, you can go faster and further now than you could in March, May, or even July. But if your big goals were in the summer, it’s likely they’re behind you now. That means you’re in a sweet spot as an athlete – you have the strength and stamina for high-quality training, and you don’t have to worry about the intricacies of balancing competitions with training. As a coach, that’s why I look at this time of year as a huge opportunity. I use this time for blocks of training that are often too big to fit into the typical race-and-recovery cycle that athletes get into during the height of the summer.

2. The runway is as long as it’s going to get: To improve from year to year, you have to take time to address your weaknesses. If you wait until January, you’re addressing your weaknesses at the same time that you’re counting down the weeks until you have to be ready to race. It’s better to work on pedal stroke, climbing technique, aerobic endurance – or whatever your season review reveals as your weak link – now. Get it done in the Fall so you can focus all your pre-season energy on maximizing race-specific performance.

3. Everyone else is watching football: Everybody trains hard in January and ramps up for the season in the first few months of the year. Not everyone trains through the fall. If you want to make real progress, you can’t afford to give up 30% of your fitness and power by sitting on your couch or exercising casually through Christmas. Tired of the regimen of structured training? The athletes I coach sometimes feel that way, too. But the answer isn’t to walk away from training; my job is to utilize varied training experiences to refresh their enthusiasm for training while simultaneously keeping their fitness level high.

Comments from the Gallery

2011-09-14T20:49:00.000-07:00

Protec Helmets after reading the Race Across the Sky 2010challenges me to:

It is great to have the opportunity to read a good quality article with useful information on topics that plenty are interested on. I concur with your conclusions and will eagerly look forward to your future updates. Thanks a lot and keep on posting more valuable information.

Bicycle racing in Colorado had great coverage this year with the US Pro Cycling Challenge with three podium from the Tour de France: Cadel Evans, Andy and Frank Schleck along with top tier American cyclists, Levi Leiphiemer, George Hincapie, Tom Danielson, Dave Zabriske, Christian VandeVelde, and TJ Van Gardener. The folks at Versus showed the most scenic venues in Colorado. I kept asking myself why I am still in southern California.

I do have to admit that the charm of the periennial Leadville 100 will always have a unique spot in my memories. The folksy charm of a small town and its friendly residents. The heady heights of 10,152' above sea level, the swooning from just walking the town and rubbing elbows with racing elites like the Fat Cyclist. Protec I must admit check out Fatty who lost his fat and kept his sly sense of humour. That's a great website to follow.

Now since my energies are currently being directed to employment, I am going to challenge you, Protec, if you have great content send me an email I will consider publishing it.

I try to pay attention to what is happening on the road. Crashes, Trashes, Coyotes, Deer, Bunnies, Pot Holes, Emergency Vehicles, Friends from the "slow lane".

Monday Afternoon Bliss

2011-09-12T20:44:00.000-07:00

The day started off on the wrong tooth. I flossed a cap right off. I spit it out and saved it for the dentist who squeezed me in this afternoon. The dental appointment allowed me to get on the road with half a mouth functioning but a great way to work off the local anesthetic keep my mind on other parts of the body.

Ron enjoyed his ride to the top of Monroe. We sat and we waited for the elusive Ray Clone. The sun rapidly dwindled and our wait cut short.

It was a strong ride for me tonight.

Rescue Vehicles

2011-09-10T16:43:00.001-07:00

A dozen or more rescue vehicles including hook and ladders, forest service trucks, CHPs, two different mountain search and rescue teams plus an ambulance deployed around 5:30 am assisted with an over the side vehicle a 1996 Ford Mustang at mile marker 5.6. This section of road has a long straight stretch at the top of Monroe then descends with a sharp turn to the intersection of GMR and GRR. It caught the driver unprepared for the turn and car flew off the road. Skid marks were 80 feet long. Three people were in the vehicle. Police reports indicate the driver had alcohol on his breath. The passengers were retrieved by emergency personnel. The car plummeted a minimum of 500 feet below the road and was not immediately visible as the cliff side is steep. The large crane in the photo retrieved the errant vehicle. The road was temporarily closed between mile marker 5 and 5.6 (top of monroe) to through traffic this morning.http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/2011/09/10/suspected-dui-motorist-plunges-500-feet-down-steep-embankment/

Where did all the water go?

2011-09-08T19:36:00.000-07:00

For those lucky dogs who can ride early in the day, the joy goes again to Bill and zippo for GMR.Bill noticed on his Thursday morning jaunt around the park that the water level dropped since Tuesday.

Rumor has it that Ron and Matt were out riding on Wednesday. I hid from the heat so here is a photo from March.

Bill at Bonelli

2011-09-07T03:29:00.000-07:00

Bill beat the heat and cruised Bonelli. It sure looks inviting on a hot late summer day.

Monday Weather

2011-09-05T07:48:00.000-07:00

The weather forecast warns of "cloud to ground" lightening strikes.

The main threats from thethunderstorms will be dangerous cloud-to-ground lightning andgusty winds. Given the dry lower atmosphere this morning... drylightning will be a concern across the area.

At my house it rained and shined at the same time. Look between the trees to see the sporadic rain drops.

The radar map at Intellicast gave great information about cloud and rain movement.

But at last I slipped out at 9 am after two mini-drippings of rain. It was a crazy day in terms of weather. Never knew if the winds would kick up and push tropical showers or would the sun prevail over the clouds for a great day of riding. This rain season is unique. Rain on July 4th and on Labor Day Sept 5th. Expect the unexpected going forward.

The Glendora Ridge Runners were coming down GMR by 9:30. A few skateboarders were out and about. The same amount of cyclists, bikers (motor), and hunters ventured into the woods. Having missed my Saturday morning ride, I am pleased with the ride and the weather. Saw Jesse of Adobe Velo, the taller Jesse.
MIA was Ron. I was hopeful about his debut on the road since his carnage, perhaps the clouds changed his mind.

Saturday Evening

2011-09-03T20:47:00.001-07:00

When work calls you go in, even if it is a Saturday morning. I checked out the early morning cyclists thinking two thoughts. First that should be me on a bike and two the action is always on Glendora Mountain Road, what are you doing twenty miles from the center of the universe?

My plans included a wait for the temperatures to cool and then I started out about 5:30 pm. 86F was ten degrees cooler than an hour earlier so I was happy. Very few folks on the road. An unusual vehicle of brown painted volkswagen van with a westfalia upper roof zipped past me at the electronic sign. It was easy to remember as it smelt of brake fluid it stung my nostrils. I thought they won't get far in that vehicle, it was already smelling bad. The ping ping ping of the motor said buy a new car dude! It was a quick turn around for that auto, as the time I got around the first hair pin curve (the bottom of Monroe) it was headed back down the hill. Odd indeed. I wondered if some skunk, possum or rat had been released into the forest.

Very light traffic fortunately for me. Cool onshore breeze. A good pace took me up the hill. The wildlife consisted of birds and bugs for the most part.

Any ride is a good ride. I agree.

Fork to Top of Monroe

2011-09-02T20:04:00.000-07:00

Ray sent me the absolute low down on my statement: "That climb up out the fork to the top of Monroe always kicks butt." Here he goes.

You know the reason... because it is steep!
Anyway here are the specs.
From TOPO which calculates it @ 24%
There are naysayers (like B) that continually tell me "computers are wrong"....
"the programmers didn't do something right"
So I have calculated it by hand also.
Using the formula of:
grade = rise over run or %=vertical_climb divided by length_climb

It is .275 mi or 1452' in length or run
It is 200' in rise or climb
200/1452=0.1377410468319.... so we will round that number down to 13.7% = steep!
If we calculate that grade to an angle it is 7 degrees.
"That climb up out the fork to the top of Monroe always kicks butt."

I only report it as 10.7% on my web page I get tired of the
people that tell me I am exaggerating,
but the numbers do prove... it is steep

RayClone

SC Velo News Letter

2011-09-02T19:53:00.000-07:00

The SC Velo Club has posted their first news letter. Tips on Nutrition by Suzy Degazon, a new Cat 3-4 Women's group headed by Leslie and the upcoming XC challenge in Bonelli on October 23. Is this what Bicycle Friend's is training for? This newsletter is chock full of information.

The best tidbit is the photo of a muscular calf. The first person to identify the calve owner will hold the distinguished title of Calf Master. Enjoy.

Mia will definitely live up to their name Saturday morning. Hopefully I will get out in the afternoon evening time.

FWD: Rattle snake

2011-09-01T19:36:00.001-07:00

Rattle snake. My Monday ride happened on Tuesday this week. IT WAS COOLER AND i saw a dozen folks hiking cycling and enjoying the evening. This week has been unpredictable in terms of schedule. The evenings are growing shorter. ny bike ride is agood ride. Life is good.

Blazin Saddles

2011-08-27T20:07:00.000-07:00

Heat. Sizzle. Blistering. The idea was to beat the heat. I thought I did well leaving the house at 6:45 am. However the really smart folks were already breezing their way to the cooling bliss of couchness. When the wind blew it was an oven door opening and releasing a hot blast of air on the body.

It was a late night and early morning of work for me. The goal for the day was to stay upright and awake. No timings. No distances. Just relax and pedal and enjoy what I could see. There were a few folks on the road and the motorcyclists kicked in their laps early in the day as well.

Straighten the back and tuck in the core muscles. Going slow is good to concentrate on proper form. Today I added look up at the scenery and soak it in. I had enough sweat to be in a soak. I did see a small brown bunny with a white tuft of a tail hiding under the dry brush that overhangs the road. Just a handful.

My lazy ride up the road kicked up a notch when the rider behind shouted car! I decided to give that rider a "run" for their money. I increased my tempo and was joined by a rider sporting a red "Toyota" kit. This was Terry's second ride up GMR. Pretty awesome ride for second time around. He motivated my muscles into a higher pace and we chatted. He poured on the speed headed to Baldy Village as we arrived at the shed. I found a tiny bit of shade. Then I noticed a plaintive cry from the hillside. It sounded like a throaty complaint of pain or sorrow. It was loud and distinct. I had never heard a noise like that. A hunter I met at the top of monroe identified the source of the sound confirmed by three other hunters: cat. mountain lion. The link is a good representation of what I heard. Be on the alert.

Morris Fire 2nd Anniversary

2011-08-25T05:39:00.001-07:00

Flashback to August 25, 2009 -- a day of infamy on Glendora Mountain Road when a fire off of Highway 39 closed the forest and our road.

It was a long five weeks as the Station Fire scorched the Angeles Mountains.

Keep your eyes open.

Stairway to heaven. GMR is

2011-08-23T06:57:00.001-07:00

Stairway to heaven. GMR is the road to greatness. The legs were sluggish but the brain was happy.

This is summer?

2011-08-20T20:30:00.000-07:00

Bill and I rolled out of the driveway by 8:05 am. The sky was grey and down right shivery. Bicycle Friends was nearly done riding the Baldy Village Loop. The muscles in my legs and brain were barely warmed up. The morning fog must have impacted many other decisions as it was down right lonesome on the road today.

Not a strong ride, but good enough. As the grey plays on the minds of the muscles. Go slower, no need to rush, enjoy the chilliness. I made it out of the clouds before Newman's to a warm summer sun. Stopped for a picture when Matt caught up with me. Matt kept the pace aggressive and I needed to turn to. No more lolly gagging up the hill.

Met Leo and Mike at the shed. Leo is quite the hiker and has ascended Iron Mountain with a short side trip along the Mt San Antonio Trail. Sonny arrived and had 20 miles under his legs. Bill also made it to the shed with strength to spare.

Matt and I continued on to the Experimental Forest Sign (fork plus 2.4). He turned around and I went on. I chugged up the reward climb to 8.3. Enjoyed the scenery and scooted down the mountain. On the climb up to fork plus four (aka the point of no return). Mike blasts past me with Leo close on his heels. Inspiration to follow suit renewed my spirit with a burst of energy from the legs that got me up the hill sooner. Thanks Mike and Leo! Rode on without much of anyone on the road. That climb up out the fork to the top of monroe always kicks butt. Met up with Jason who is practing for the Death Valley Stage Race in Bishop.

Caught up with Leo and Mike below Newman's. They were changing a tube. I thanked them for arriving at just the right time to help me up the hill.

Pleased with my legs. Pleased with the distance.

Colorado Dreaming

2011-08-19T21:39:00.000-07:00

What do you call a bicycle race that screams over the high Rockies in beautiful Colorado for seven days, and 35,000 feet of climbing? Heaven or the USA Pro Cycling Challenge in beautiful Colorado. http://www.usaprocyclingchallenge.com/

Flatlanders

2011-08-18T19:57:00.000-07:00

I am trying to convince those who ride flat rides that GMR is achievable. Here's my pitch...."Glendora Mountain Road is basically flat.... with a slope. Not really a mountain at all."

Ray Clone of Mt Baldy Village (MBV) agrees:

gosh! you said it.... :)
It is the easier of the three ways up to MBV.
----
The front side - Mt Baldy Road is short but steep. 7 mi @ 9~10%
----
Or you could travel along SR 39:

SR39 is long and has 3 climbs. 32.5 mi total
climb 1 to back side of GMR 15.50 mi @ 3~5%
climb 2 backside GMR to fork 5 mi @ 6 %
climb 3 GRR (reward) 3.6 mi @ 7.3%
----
Or Glendora Mountain Road to Glendora Ridge Road:

GMR/GRR is the easiest way up. 21 mi total
climb 1 GMR 9 mi @ 5.5%
climb 2 GRR (reward) 3.6 mi @ 7.3%

A Ghostly Sub 19

Goal for Wednesday

2011-08-16T21:07:00.000-07:00

Get lots of productive work done in the morning. Ride in the afternoon. I missed out on the Monday Night Ride. Ready for action.

Woohoo! Got a ride in. The evening ride was hot at 94F and the road was relatively quiet. The air was clearer than Monday night as a small fire near Santa Fe dam put ash in the air. The legs were confused what's this pedaling thing I need to do.

Legs felt strong

2011-08-13T20:21:00.000-07:00

My legs felt strong today. Started off with Bill then pushed on at the electronic sign. The grey marine layer dwindled quickly from sight. I would tag along with riders who passed. Kicked it up a notch. The road felt good. I have a theory to entice the non-mountain folks to ride GMR. Here's my pitch, Glendora Mountain Road is basically flat with a slope. Not really a mountain at all. Do you think they will nibble?

Quiet ride for a Saturday morning. Found Group Beanz enjoying a bit of shade. Mr. Beanz had a leak in his tube. He didn't find the problem in the tire. Patched the tube and off we went. The miles move faster when you have someone to chat with. We talked of speed and camaraderie. We agreed that friendship means taking turns pulling. We found Gina enjoying the scenery at Fork plus Four. I needed a longer ride to the apex of 8.3. I noticed two Forest Service trucks speeding down the mountain. Then a helicopter flying back over the Village. Loma Linda? or Pomona Hospital. Bill had the scoop as two motorcycles collided head on.

Aimee, Beanz, Gina, Alyce, Herb, Will, Daniel, Scott, Mark, Dude, Curtis, Dick, Marty.

Lighthouse Century - September 24, 2011

2011-08-09T19:20:00.000-07:00

Wayne has 2 - 4 tickets to the popular Lighthouse Century Ride. Cost is $60 for the adventurers who want to ride "The Old Road" a route comparable to Glendora Mountain Road. This ride always fills up within the first few hours of opening registration. There are a dozen of us camping at Morro Bay State Park. Route Length Climbing Flat Metric 62 miles 2,500 feet Hilly Metric 69 miles4,000 feet Flat Century 98 miles 3,500 feet Hilly Century 99 miles 4,700 feet.

Contact Wayne Lucas for more information. Or find him on the web at http://www.lucasproducts.net

Ph (909) 350-2285
Fx (909) 350-4224
Cell (909) 225-9818

Lighthouse Century Info

The ride starts and ends at Cuesta College. From there, the rides go north past the hidden town of Los Osos where there is no through traffic, on past Morro Bay with its famous Morro Rock and Embarcadero. On north for a rest and goodies stop at Cayucos, then the metric riders go to Cambria where a delicious lunch awaits. The Century riders continue north past historic Piedras Blancas Lighthouse to the turnaround at Piedras Blancas and back to Cambria for lunch. Be sure to keep a look out for the zebras on the right at San Simeon and the elephant seals on the left after San Simeon. After lunch everyone travels south to Cayucos again for more rest and goodies. Then south to the start/finish for a fabulous hot dinner.

For more info go to:

http://www.slobc.org/lighthouse/index.html

Sweet Sweet Monday Ride

2011-08-08T19:29:00.001-07:00

Sweet sweet Monday Night Ride. Quiet on the road tonight. Worked off the work stress. Pure bliss.

Bionic Ron

2011-08-06T13:05:00.000-07:00

"We can rebuild him. We have the technology. We have the capability to build the world's first bionic ..[cyclist] ... Better than he was before. Better, stronger, faster."

Ron crashed on Wednesday evening June 22, 2011 from road debris of an orange pylon near the electronic sign on Glendora Mountain Road. After his outer skin healed, he upgraded his carbon components to titanium. If you look closely, Ron had the word Lightspeed etched into his new part.

His shoulder felt stiff and the collarbone area pulled, however he doesn't have much feeling in the skin on the shoulder as the nerves were cut. Physical Therapy for the next month. His arm is getting stronger daily and he feels better. Today Ron completed 21 minutes on the spin bike. Soon it will back on the road.

On the road again. A

2011-08-06T06:38:00.001-07:00

On the road again. A week of no rides and i am off on a ride this morning. Hopefully John brought a rope and strong legs.

Glendora Mountain Road Opened 7-30-2011

2011-07-31T16:44:00.001-07:00

Glendora Mountain Road Opened 7-30-2011 at 8:00 pm

Epic Ride

2011-07-30T16:35:00.000-07:00

Some rides start off normal enough. Riding in the cool of the morning to beat the heat and still make Baldy Village. Then to prove your outstanding endurance you show up the "Loopers" who sneak down Baldy Road for an easy and fast completion to their day just how it is really done by completing an out and back ride. Those uphills become downhills and in like manner those downhills become uphills. To build up confidence in my ride partner John and build up the confidence in my knee its not that far.

Matt joined us for a short section on the way up the "Col du Shed". He headed out first and we caught up with him again in Baldy Village. He left the Village ahead of us for his ride back. John and I hung out at the store. Buying ice cold water and Powerade. yummy. Deliciously cold to bring down the core temperature. My bike decided gravity was a friend and fell over at the store. Hmm. Then I picked up sap on my tire which attached itself to lots of crap on the road. Hmm. The thunderhead clouds were enjoyable to watch and wonder at. I enjoyed the climbs up to Cow Canyon Saddle and to the Point of No Return (mile marker 4.0). I was pleased with our progress. A squirrel darted across the road, immediately there was a huge rock to avoid and a motorcycle zoomed by fast. Threes. Done.

Traditions such as the stop at Newmann's Point, the first saddle and numerous stops along the road to take pictures of Baldy. Traditions. Enjoyed down hill at last. Ready for down hill just roll along down hill then a US Forest Service ranger has a "SLOW" sign. Hmm. We turn the hair pin corner to find a US Forest Service Truck has stopped. We come to a dead stop. Sorry can't go any farther. There are three containers leaking a bad fume. Hazardous Materials Team has been called.

John and I find a bit of shade and hang out. We hang out for 30 to 40 minutes. The time dragged out. Called Bill and Matt. Matt had the info of seeing a black Dodge/RAM Truck around noon at the scene. The individual was putting a blanket over the containers. If you have any information send me a note.

Brandon the US Forest Service Ranger brought us ice cold drinks. Many thanks. Tried to negotiate personal mountain rescue vehicles to come and whisk us back taking the long route up Highway 39, East Fork, North GMR (or little GMR) and down, the daunting hour plus journey just to arrive didn't bode well. When the sheriffs took over the road closure, John and I agreed to take the trail option down to the next hair pin turn. A cyclecross adventure indeed. We then scooted down the mountain. Did get a whiff of the gas and yes it was nasty smelling.

Still this seems eerily familiar to the last Saturday of July 2010 when the road closed due to fire.

Good to be home. This feels vaguely similar to the last Saturday of July in 2010 when a fire was started from an overturned vehicle. So good to be home. Clean. Cool and ready for food.

Glendora Mountain Road Closed

2011-07-30T15:47:00.001-07:00

Glendora Mountain Road closed due to biohazard. Hazmat Team to clear three white plastic tubs leaking a bad smelling gas. Road closure started at 1 pm. Last checked at 3:30 pm.

As I wait

2011-07-30T13:59:00.001-07:00

As i wait for the county team to clean up the containers. I realize how low on water I am. Squirrels are looking tastey to me.

Waiting to exhale.

2011-07-30T13:53:00.001-07:00

Waiting to exhale. Still waiting for the hazmat team.

Forest Service Responds

2011-07-30T13:37:00.001-07:00

Crew that responded to illegal dumping. The thought is it might be chlorine gas.

Hazmat team has been called

2011-07-30T13:24:00.001-07:00

Hazmzt team has been called to clean up three containers leaking gas. A black dodge truck was seen about noon dumping the containers near mile marker 11.97.

Mosey Mode

2011-07-27T21:51:00.001-07:00

A very relaxed pace tonight. I think someone replaced my legs with lead. Did have a good time just pedaling. After missing on Monday night I had to remember a bit harder what you do with legs going around.

Spotted prickly seed pods waiting to puncture your tires.

Otherwise there was just a handful of cars, motorcycles and other bikers.

And if you received an email from me tonight. Delete it. It is spam. Gosh, all I did was read an email with "Notification Failure". That's it. Nothing more. Oh well, it will force me to say hi to all of you.

Above it All

2011-07-24T21:18:00.000-07:00

Group Beanz is growing stronger every day. This is their fourth Saturday in a row on the mountain. Excellent form as always. Added a member or two.

The yuccas are blooming late this year. Usually see them in May and June. Here it is July nearly August!

The talk is about Greg who has returned to the mountain after his brush with melanoma. Good reminder to put on the sunscreen.

Ron is prime to start his post surgery recovery. We are both in Tour de France withdrawal syndrome. What to do with all that free time now that Cadel Evans -- the first Australian ever (since 1903) has won the Tour?

Rick, Matt and I rode to the Sunset Trail turnout near Fork plus 8. Rick continued on to village while instructing a younger rider on routing choices.

Baldy was clear while the inversion layer held a thick marine layer over the valley below. Above it all:

Burn off Work

2011-07-18T20:42:00.000-07:00

There is nothing quite like Glendora Mountain Road that throws your body into oxygen debt to kick in the endorphins that burn off the stress of work. The glorious view washes out the lingering thoughts of the day.

Bonelli looks sparkly tonight.

Saturday is now a blur

2011-07-17T20:18:00.000-07:00

Saturday July 16, 2011. I wanted to get out on the road early to beat the heat and the UV index. Bill checked the air in my tires and broke the valve on the tube of my front wheel. He replaced the tube and I was on my way by 7:15 am. The air was a bit nippy however the sun promised warmth and was streaming through the clouds and sky earlier than Friday.

I wanted to warm up the muscles easy before pushing the hill. Sierra Madre was taken moderately. Cyclists were out and about. Two guys, one in a blue kit and one in a yellow kit played tag for half an hour. Sonny in blue and John in yello pushed past me fast before Palm Drive. However, I breezed past them on the slope by the Dalton Hot Shots Ranger Station as Sunny lost his chain. I just wanted to get the bad part done. I slowed and they passed me by the electronic sign. I caught up with them on the first incline by the first hair pin curve. I call this "the ramp". Its a nice straight uphill section. All this to say we were evenly matched and ended up riding together until the clock struck 8:25 am.

I passed Group Beanz, Mr. Beanz, Gina Beanz, Herb and Alyce Beanz and Will Beanz on the way to the first saddle. We talked at the shed about Laurette Fretta and his interview with Ray Clone. I tarryed while Group Beanz pushed on.

It was a pretty day but the domestique had had too many beers. We turned around at the point of no return (Fork plus 4). A red jeep pulled up and Ray Clone stopped to talk to us. Disney Downtown was fun. Lots of family. He had a tale of how his Mini-Doberman Pincher barked down a 300 pound bear. A handful of dog can make alot of ruckus. Ray counted nearly 40 cyclists riding Glendora Ridge Road on Saturday morning.

Talked with John at the shed. Then met Bill at mile marker seven. He had stopped to coach two women on how to change a flat tire. Two in one day, Bill! It may be flat tire season. Bill told the story of his ride up Glendora Mountain Road. He was not aware of the furry shadow following him around mile marker 11 until another cyclist who zoomed by alerted him of his tail.

John and Sonny. Will try to get out the same time to ride with you.

Will also drives his car on Glendora Mountain Road at 2:00 am. How are you even awake?

Mr. Beanz and Gina in the lead!

Mr. Beanz parking Gina's bike. Let's put the good carbon Trek bike on top of the sturdy LeMonde Bike.

Gina looking refreshed enough to ride another 18 miles.

Will and Herb.

Alyce are we there yet?

The marine layer thick over the valley.

How far is Baldy?

For Ron

2011-07-15T21:11:00.001-07:00

Bicycle Friends captured this awesome and fearsome aftermath one skate boarder endured. Posted Monday July 5, 2010.

Saturday, Sun and Sierra Madre

2011-07-15T15:21:00.000-07:00

Weather forecasts for Saturday indicate Ultra-Violet (UV) rays to be high in the Los Angeles area. Slather on the sunscreen of SPF 15 or higher if you are going out and bring more if you ride longer than two hours. The bugs are going to feast on me this weekend. My bugspray-sunscreen does well to detract bugs, but is less effective than my sunscreen. My sunscreen is a titanium mix and the bugs find it tastey. Bring water if you plan to ride GMR. The last watering hole is at the horse corrals at Boulder Springs. The gazebo has a drinking fountain.

Also note that Sierra Madre is under construction. Two right lanes on the north side of the street are closed between Grand Avenue and Barranca/Ben Lomond. The construction is planned to complete August 29th. I drive Sierra Madre early in the morning, so I haven't seen what they are doing other than blocking lanes with those orange pylons that bite cyclists.

The Montrose riders will need to right smart on Saturday as Monrovia Police plan to monitor the ride. I myself, appreciate all the drivers who see me and grant me the right away when I approach stop signs.

Ride safe.

Allez! Allez!

2011-07-13T21:43:00.000-07:00

Had a great ride tonight. It was warm yet cool at 85F. I chased a couple of riders up to mile marker 11.39. Nice to be fasssssst.

MIA no more

2011-07-11T21:25:00.001-07:00

Missing in Action made it to the shed tonight in a new Glendora Ridge Rider Jersey. A very rare Monday event. Staying upright in the heat is always good form.

Matt models the Ridge Riders Jersey. Front view.

Rear view.

Glendora Ridge Riders
Ray Clone Ridge Rider

Wayne there are only a few left! Contact Ray Clone

Met Bob who had a tale of an arthritic knee. If I could only keep up!

He rode a distinct steel bike Dario Pegoretti.

Trail Blazer

2011-07-10T19:54:00.000-07:00

Met a legendary trail blazer today who has combed our hills for more than 60 years. Gordon Rowley will loan you his tools to help clear brush from the network of foot paths lacing the hills. The rich history of Gordon was intertwined with larger than life Glendora characters of Michael and Kaia Maris Rubel, Norma and Ida. Gordon reported seeing the family of bears, momma and two cubs - now a year older.

After scanning the hillside for signs of deer, I turned around and saw a deer eating in the cool shade.

Also saw a salamander, the first one since the flooding of the creek in May.

All in all a good hike for a Sunday morning.

Road Open

2011-07-09T20:48:00.001-07:00

Glendora Mountain Road is once again open for multi-use traffic. The motor vehicles are back and eyes should be wide open.

The early morning meeting for work from 1 - 2:30 am tore into my performance. Staying upright and moving forward was my goal. Rode with Matt awhile and happened upon the legendary figure of Mr. Beanz, Gina, Alyce and Herb. Welcome to the road Alyce and Herb. Mighty fine riding for the first time. Matt pushed on to Baldy. I stayed and enjoyed the heroic tales of Mr. Beanz and his literary talents. His videos are entertaining, folksy and artistic. Beanz has a talent of just chatting with people and making them feel at ease while capturing their essence in the digital world. The Mr. Beanz Bicycle School of Photography is having a summer session so sign up now.

I rode to fork plus four before the heat told me to stop. On the way up I smirked as a troop of riders were fixing a flat. I knew that would swing back my way. As I was thinking of Ron's mishap by the electronic sign my back tire blew out. I picked up a shard of glass. Had the mountain rescue vehicle pick me up. Incycle replaced the tube patched the tire and put on new tape on the handle bars. Nice to have a dollar or two to spend on the bike.

Glendora Mountain Road Closed for July 4 Weekend

2011-07-01T12:01:00.001-07:00

Heaven is here . Glendora Mountain Road is closed . Friday July 1 at 12 noon. The forest ranger told us to enjoy the ride down. John and I did.

Glendora Ridge Road Closed for July 4 Weekend

2011-07-01T11:45:00.003-07:00

Glendora ridge road closed for the july 4th weekend. Time is now 11:00 am

2011-07-01T11:45:00.001-07:00

Glendora ridge road closed for the july 4th weekend. Time is now 11:00 gam

GMR closed July 1st approx

2011-06-27T09:09:00.001-07:00

GMR closed July 1st approx 10 am. Reopens on Tues July 5th. Just confirmed w ranger personnel. open to hikers and cyclists.

The road is closed to motor traffic. While it is closed hikers/runners/walkers and cyclists may use the road. I wasn't given a time when it would be opened on Tuesday. It is whenever the forest service personnel get around to it. Could be 8 am. Could be later.

Happy 80th Birthday Glendora Mountain Road

2011-06-26T20:00:00.001-07:00

Glendora Mountain Road opened June 26, 1931 to auto traffic.

Check it out!

It was open from 5 am to 7 am and then later from 3 pm to 6 pm while minor repairs were completed.

First time

2011-06-25T19:58:00.000-07:00

No cloud cover this morning. The sun streamed down early and warm. The bike nicely tuned from its Incycle servicing glided up the road. Friends zipped down the mountain in passing. Scott. Bob and Leslie of SC Velo. Ken on his mountain bike beamed that it was a beautiful day for a ride. Met up with Jason and Michael at the top of Monroe. Jason needed a recovery ride after the Thursday mountain bike race. His legs screamed that climbing Highway 39 to the backside of GMR was more challenging than advertised.

Lots of time to think of nothing more than muscles, churning, pedaling, pushing upwards, rhythmic motions, the ligaments surrounding the knee compressing and squeezing. One break in the shade until the bugs swarmed me. The vista from the Sunset turnout.

The alpine section from Glendora Ridge Road, the rolling hills with shade felt good. No need to rush. Conserve water.

It was 80F in the Village at noon. The store by the Lodge was open and the purchase of refrigerated water and the chilled lemon-lime Powerade cooled my core. Met Daniel at Cow Canyon Saddle. We talked of fitting rides in after work. Long summer days with light to ride.

First time this year to reach Baldy. It felt good.