BICYCLIST Magazine - #128 by BICYCLIST

southern california

#128

Bicyclist events | culture | bicyclism

THAT PRO LOOK 2016 PREVIEW GRAVEL MOB

PROvisions

DEAN BIKE FRAME TITANIUM + LIFETIME WARRANTY 5 THINGS SOCAL WINTER COMMUTING

PROFILES

RAD COFFEE UPLAND JEROMES CYCLES SAN PEDRO THE MOB SHOP OJAI ROAD RUNNER BAGS DTLA ENCINO VELODROME LOS ANGELES

Rolex of Bike Pumps” WIN “The -John Watson the radavist

Page 37

The SoCal Guide to Cycling Socalbicyclist.com

Limited screening by

SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA BICYCLIST January 21 Irvine, CA www.socalbicyclist.com/bvc

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eVENT REPORT

GRAVEL MOB REGULARS

EDITOR'S NOTE Our First Year NEW & NOTEWORTHY Bikes vs Cars READER'S RIDES Your Photos #socalbicyclist WANDERING PHOTOGRAPHER CXLA BIKE FIT(NESS) Part 3 BACK TO BASICS Get That Pro Look TIME MACHINE Officially Vintage CROSSWORD WIN a SILCA pro pump LAST PAGE The Electric Revolution

PROFILES

events | Culture | Bicyclism

reviewed

DEAN El Vado 6 8 9 10 13 16 18 37 38

ENCINO VELODROME Los Angeles 11 THE MOB SHOP Ojai 12 RAD COFFEE Upland 18 JEROME CYCLES San Pedro 22 ROAD RUNNER BAGS DTLA 25 COVER Dean Hall (Orange, CA) rides, and then reviews, the DEAN El Vado frameset on his descent down HWY 39 on the road from Crystal Lake Cafe. See Issue #122 for more about the route and page 19 for the full review. Photo by Chris Reynolds

February 2016

#128

EVENT REPORT

SANTA BARBARA

100

PROVISIONS

BIKE REVIEW DEAN El Vado FIVE THINGS SoCal Winter Commuting

19 24

EVENTS

GRAVEL MOB Ojai 14 SANTA BARBARA 100 Santa Barbara 26 SEASON PREVIEWS 28 GRAVEL Adventure Racing / Grinders CYCLOCROSS Last Chance COMPETITIVE MTB Get Dirty, Ride Clean COMPETITIVE ROAD Test Yourself RECREATION Help A Cause, Make New Friends ULTRA LENGTH 150 Miles And More

2016 CYCLING EVENT CALENDAR

CLUBS

DIRECTORY Find Your Future Peloton

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Editor's Note I DON’T KNOW ABOUT YOU, but 2015 has been a very tumultuous year for me. My father passed away at the end of 2014 after a long fight with cancer. This coincided with my assuming responsibility for Southern California Bicyclist from Will Decker, the founder. I left my sadness in 2014 because I had much to look forward to in 2015. I was married in March, and my wife is the light that has kept everything focused and in perspective. 2015 would have been unbearable without her. In one of the last conversations with my father, I showed him Issue #121, my first as publisher of Southern California Bicyclist. It was the first time I had ever showed him something I

Our first year had done professionally that I was happy doing. I enjoyed the process of working with a team to put the magazine together and it satisfied my original purpose when I took it over from Will Decker: To commit myself professionally to something that would benefit others in a direct and measurable way. My dad was always concerned that I find “a career.” He would say, “Your career, Chris. You need to be thinking more about your career!” Now he could see that I had, at 31, found something I considered worth doing. It was a little later than he would have had liked, I’m sure, but I’m glad it happened all the same. It was an important moment for me and I’d

like to think it settled him before he crossed over the threshold. It’s been a year since that issue was published and we now have an online presence. Digital editions of SoCal Bicyclist have been seen by almost a million people in 13 countries and the number of hardcopy readers has now surpassed previous print runs. I’m proud of the work performed by members of the SCB team and our contributors, and I’m very excited about our plans for the new year ahead of us. To our readers, I say thank you and all of us at SoCal Bicyclist wish you the very best in 2016.

REGULARS

#128 - February 2016

about EDITORIAL

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

Kelley O’Toole - KO | Managing Editor kelley@socalbicyclist.com

CONTRIBUTORS

Chris Reynolds - CR | Editorial Director chris@socalbicyclist.com

Victor Prestinary - VP | Editor-at-Large victor@socalbicyclist.com Catherine Latour | Copy Editor catherine@socalbicyclist.com

Krystof Andres, Andreas Moore, Justin Macias, Steven Cohen, Charles Lindsey, Samuel Parks, Tim Wilson Bob Becker, Lizett Bond, Charles Lindsey, Dean Hall, Justin Macias, Andreas Moore Samuel Parks, Damon Roberson , Chris Scott , Tim Wilson

READ/FOLLOW/LIKE

ADVERTISING

Mike Eberhardt | Marketing Manager mike@socalbicyclist.com

www.socalbicyclist.com @socalbicyclist /socalbicyclist #socalbicyclist

ONLINE

SUBMISSIONS & CONTACT

Chris Reynolds | Design & Development chris@socalbicyclist.com Kelley O’Toole | Social Media   kelley@socalbicyclist.com Tim Wilson | Social Media  tim@socalbicyclist.com

DISTRIBUTION & LOGISTICS Victor Prestinary | Director victor@socalbicyclist.com

PUBLISHING

Chris Reynolds | Director chris@socalbicyclist.com All photography and design performed in-house unless otherwise noted.

Contact info@socalbicyclist.com for editorial guidelines and information. Southern California Bicyclist Magazine 14252 Culver Drive Irvine, CA 92604 (949) 264-3346 www.socalbicyclist.com Designed and Printed in SoCal Founded by Will Decker Read us on

VITALS & SUBSCRIPTIONS

Southern California Bicyclist is a multi-platform lifestyle and destination guide celebrating the arts, skills, events, and culture of riding a bike in Southern California and other locations in the Western U.S. SCB is published 10 times per year. The print edition can be found at more than 1000 locations and events throughout California and adjacent states. Find a location near you or view the interactive, digital version at www.socalbicyclist.com Print copy subscriptions are $20 per year for 10 print issues delivered to the destination of your choice in the United States. International print subscriptions are $35. For more information, visit www.socalbicyclist.com/subscribe Copyright ©2016 All rights reserved.

DISCLAIMER

Although all best efforts are made to avoid the same, we reserve the right to publish unintentional mistakes and/ or factual errors which may occur on an issue basis. No responsibility is assumed by the publishers for unsolicited materials/articles/letters /advertising and all submissions will be treated as unconditionally assigned for publication and copyright and/or appropriate licensing purposes subject to SCB's right to edit and comment editorially. The views and opinions expressed in this magazine reflect the opinions of their respective author’s and are not necessarily those of the publisher or the editorial team. No part of this magazine may be reproduced in any form [print or electronic] without prior consent of the publisher.

Bicycling can be a dangerous sport and can lead to serious injury or death. Make it safer for everyone and obey all traffic laws, ride responsibly, use common sense, and wear a helmet.

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DON'T MISS A SINGLE ISSUE! SUBSCRIBE AND RECEIVE EVERY ISSUE OF THIS MAGAZINE DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR

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New & Noteworthy World Record attempts

8.7 mph. Every hour. For a year.

The record for most miles cycled in a year stands at 75,065 set by Tony Godwin in 1939. This year, three different men set out to break that record, but after cycling for more than 11 months, Kurt Searvogel is the only individual of the three still on pace to break the record and will continue riding until January 10, 2016. Rachel and Gary Corbett, two Australians, have traveled 13,000 kilometers through 11 countries in their attempt to break the e-bike world record of 16,000 kilometers. Speaking of e-bikes...

the Modern American Dream

Proper planning prevents poor performance.

Early last year, Storm Sondors initiated a crowdfunding campaign for a $500 (plus $200 shipping) electric fat bike. He collected $6,000,000 on a $75,000 goal. The "so-called" experts doubted that a viable product was feasible at this price point and the project was beset with problems, but Sondors prevailed and delivered to his backers with the bike now available to the public.

Orange county screening of "bikes vs cars"

SCB will be screening a new documentary in Irvine.

On January 21, SCB will be hosting a screening of the new documentary from director Frederik Gertten, “Bikes vs. Cars”. The film focuses on the bike as a tool for change. We meet activists and thinkers who are fighting for better cities and who refuse to stop riding despite the increasing number of riders killed in traffic. This is limited and will sell out. www.socalbicyclist.com/bvc

west coast welcomes electric bike expo The first stop of the expo is Tempe, Arizona.

SCB.FM presented by

An electric bike expo will be held at Temple Diablo Stadium on January 15-17, 2016. This free to attend event featured e-bikes from more than 18 manufacturers. Upcoming events in 2016 are scheduled for San Diego (February), Houston (March), Palo Alto (April), Portland (May) and Denver (June). More in the works. www.electricbike-expo.com

electric mountain bike race at sea otter Classic Space for 500 riders in various classes.

The SCB Podcast SoCal bike news (and entertainment).

Weekly podcast with the editorial staff at SCB. New episodes available every Thursday morning at scb.fm or in the Apple iTunes store.

The organizers of the Sea Otter Classic added to the legitimacy of e-bikes by including an electric mountain bike race to the schedule of events for the multi-day festival in Monterey, California. www.seaotterclassic.com

FIND THE CHAIN LINK

A small icon (like this one: ) is hidden somewhere in this issue. If you locate it and enter our Find The Chain Link contest online, you may win a FREE one-year subscription to the print edition of Southern California Bicyclist. To enter, go to socalbicyclist.com/ftc and complete the online entry form. Entries must be received by midnight January 31, 2016. The winning entry will be selected using a random-number generator and announced in a future print issue.

For official rules and entry,

VISIT SOCALBICYCLIST.COM/FTC

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#socalbicyclist ď&#x2026;

Reader's Rides

Staff Favorites

Downtown Los Angeles Robert Green @darnerspt

Show Us Awesome & win All chosen photos win the highly coveted, much sought after awesome sauce Purist water bottle. To be considered, follow @socalbicyclist on Instagram and tag your rides with #socalbicyclist. Congratulations to this month's winners!

Four Corners, Chino Hills State Park Josh Kreitzer @joshonabike

SoCal Backyard Trails Shawn D. @shawndohs

Glendora Mountain Road

Photo: Eddie Olsen @eolsen813 Cyclist: Bryant Mena @b_man_82

southern california BICYCLIST #128

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wandering photographer

CXLA

Long Beach, CA

Caroline Gomez-Villafane, Specialized/MuscleMilk

EVENT PHOTO REPORT www.socalbicyclist.com/cxla

Lance Haidet, Team Raliegh Clement

Ian Stowe, Team Voler/Rock Lobster

Caitlyn Vestal, Feedback Sports Racing

SEE YOURSELF? LET US KNOW!

Email us at wp@socalbicyclist.com and we'll set you up with a FREE year subscription to the print edition of Southern California Bicyclist. WIN!

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PROFILES

what comes before grassroots? Photos by Steve Cohen

velodrome

Encino Velodrome is a volunteer-run track. Many people, including the entire board of directors, are volunteers who want to make sure this venue stays available to the community.

GRASS ROOTS RACING is the lifeblood of our sport.

For many individuals, a local grass roots race is the beginning of a journey that leads to a life of racing at the professional level. Track cycling is no longer getting sponsorship or the attention of the industry, except for a few committed companies. Yet, it is the segment of our sport that we see having the highest rate of adoption among youths. By a wide margin. The lower price point of track bikes and the presence of one indoor and two outdoor tracks in Southern California provide opportunities for kids to race bikes. To keep this opportunity available takes the work of many volunteers. We spoke with one such volunteer, Henry Shibata, who helps instruct and run the evening training. When Henry lived in Japan, he attended a school dedicated to a type of track racing called "keirin." Motivated by his passion for racing, he continues to help both juniors and adults who are focused on sprint type events. Henry serves on the board of directors, works to keep the tracks running, and also runs multiple evening and early morning sessions. Youth memberships are $25 a month and beginner sessions are held weekly on Thursday evenings. For the full photo gallery and details go to www.socalbicyclist.com/EVelodrome. -CR

One of the youngsters who is looking to start racing next spring for the first time.

ENCINO VELODROME

Sepulveda Basin Recreation Area 17301 Oxnard St. Los Angeles, CA 91316 encinovelodrome.org

Board member and volunteer, Henry Shibata provides assistance and coaching to the racing stars of tomorrow.

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PROFILES

Bike Shop

bike shop or community hub? Ojai, CA

WE VISITED OJAI VALLEY as bicyclists this year while

attending Peloton magazine's Gravel Mob event (pg.14). What we discovered was one of the most worthwhile events in SoCal and a shop worthy to host it. The Mob Shop in downtown Ojai operates in a building fashioned from a re-purposed gas station, now a landmark for the community. There you’ll find a full-service bike shop, extremely friendly staff, and one of the sweetest bike-event venues we’ve come across. With giant sails providing muchneeded shade, the fenced-off rear patio becomes a formidable post-ride hang out area - complete with couches! For travelers, The Mob Shop has bikes of every type available for rent (e-bikes as well). They also provide a range of riding tours of the local area for all skill levels. With road and trail access to Los Padres National Park and the Ventura County wilderness, The Mob Shop offers rides and events both scenic and challenging. Ultimately, a bike shop's purpose is to enrich the biking experience. Between their offerings and the general ambience of the shop, The Mob Shop gives every bicyclist the feeling of "coming home." -VP

THE MOB SHOP

110 W. Ojai Avenue Ojai, CA 93023 themobshop.com @themobshop

Taylor at The Mob Shop in Ojai helps bicyclists get what they need, all with a smile and down-to-earth attitude that is appreciated by locals and visitors alike.

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Part 3: Pedaling Technique By Damon Roberson FEEL LIKE YOU’VE BEEN riding down

the path of ho-hum performance lately? Improvement doesn’t always begin with riding harder or more frequently. Instead, consider focusing on your pedaling technique. In the long run, improving your technical skills will trump increasing the brute strength behind your pedaling. Begin by developing your technique, and then fine-tune your pedaling with practice. You will become a stronger rider and be able to recover faster. When a rider isn’t naturally stable on the seat, the parts of the body that can be used to provide a ‘platform’ are the arms, shoulders and upper back. But when they are used, the rider pays a price by breathing inefficiently and developing an incorrect pedaling technique. It can also happen when a rider’s overall position is poor or the pedals are functioning poorly. Instability on the saddle can be both the cause and the result of incorrect pedaling. There are two common styles of pedaling that contribute to poor lower leg function; the “toe dipper” and the “heel dropper.” Both lead to overcompensation for a poor bike position. When cycling, pedal as if your lower leg and foot were rigid, more ski boot-esque in terms of support. Leave the work of driving that crank to the quads and glutes. Remember to pedal from your hips and core, not your feet. If your overall position isn’t optimal, it will be like firing a cannon from a canoe versus a battleship.

Damon Roberson is a former professional cyclist who now lives as a freelance nomadic contributor and cycling adventure pioneer. You can find out more about him and his work at damonfit.com.

Bike Fit(ness)

This is the third in a series of informational articles that explore the various functions and interactions of our bodies and the machines we ride. Each issue covers a specific element of bicycling physiology. Our goal is to empower readers with knowledge that supports their efforts to keep cycling strong both on and off the bike.

The Exercise

Isolation Pedaling The single most important exercise you can do to improve your pedaling

technique is single-leg isolated pedaling. Drills should be performed on a trainer and at a cadence of 80-90 rmps, which will permit inertia to assist lifting the leg through the recovery phase. You’ll quickly discover that counter-productive pedaling forces have been making you work harder, rather than smoother. You will discover the “dead spots” in your stroke that need to be corrected. Visualize driving one foot forward into the front of the shoe at the top of the stroke, and that you're scraping mud off the bottom of the other shoe, similar to back-pushing your heel into the heel cup of the shoe. Don’t push back too forcefully since it’s not natural to do that for an extended period of time. If you find yourself doing so, it’s typically a compensation for poor cleat or saddle position. Ideally, try to do five efforts per leg for 30 seconds, then 30 seconds of easy pedaling using both legs. Just like lifting weights, you can only do so many sets and reps before you will need to stop. The body needs to learn good pedaling form to be capable of handling the load imposed on the muscles and joints. Otherwise, it would be like putting a V8 engine in a compact car with flat rear tires. The components will wear out before the engine has time to rev up to its potential. It’s time to break out that trainer and work on the single most important exercise you can do to have better form in the New Year.

The benefits The single leg is prevented from being counter-productive during the typical upstroke or recovery phase. The rider develops more torque earlier and later in the pedal stroke. The smaller muscle groups become able to withstand the high torque values, which results in a longer and stronger ride, and faster recovery.

on the road When you start practicing this technique on the road, you’ll notice an immediate acceleration. This is because power is now being delivered to cranks in parts of your bike that were previously power passive. Practice this in sets and repetitions, just as you would on the trainer. Do it until you begin to feel a little fatigued, and then pedal normally for a short period of time. Repeat throughout the ride. Also, remember to stretch afterwards and focus on the hips, quads and hamstrings.

GET STARTED NOW AND CREATE YOUR BLUEPRINT FOR LONGER AND STRONGER RIDING IN 2016.

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GRAVEL MOB peloton + mob shop

began in downtown Ojai on the cold morning of November 7. Riders departed from The Mob Shop following the Ojai Valley Trail leading south toward the Sulphur Mountain turnoff. The main group split off on the fire road leading up to the first summit. After a long road descent, participants chose to either cut the ride short or continue on to the more demanding Sisar summit. Those with the proper gear and experience continued on to total 60 miles of dirt, gravel, road, and single track. -VP

THE PELOTON GRAVEL MOB

The main group charges up Sulphur Mountain.

Sheltered from the morning sun, riders push through cold, shady trails up the 8% grade.

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zoomed past other riders and climbed up 3400 feet of elevation gain and climbed out of the Ojai Valley. Loaded up with camera gear, our photographer followed ride participants up the dirt roads to capture some incredible scenes, and found the 30-mile rating really meant 30 miles. Luckily our photographer had the horse-legs to pedal it up and over.

THE PEDEGO STRETCH

Full gallery at socalbicyclist.com/gm

Mob Shop giveaways- WOOT!

Dave Zabriskie and friends post-ride.

Tacos and beer welcomed riders back to the shop.

southern california BICYCLIST #128

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Back TO basics

get that PRO look By Chris Scott

DO YOU MARVEL at how clean the pros’ bikes look? Or find yourself comparing your

trusted but seasoned steed to the flashy new rides catching your eye on the local trail? Perhaps you’re new to this sport and have noticed the different various styles and equipment during your group ride. Or, maybe you’d just like to update the look of your bike, but don’t know where to start. Try these often overlooked suggestions to breathe new life into your bike and improve your performance. Not only will they give your bike a look that will stand out on your next ride, they will help your prized possession perform at its best. And don’t be surprised if your new-found pride triggers a few more watts of power from your internal motor as well – look fast, go fast!

TIRE INSTALLATION, ROTATION, AND LABEL ALIGNMENT

When it comes to tires, you should know the specs on the ones you currently run and the ones you intend to buy. Most of this information is available on the sidewall of the tire. Bicycle tires have become highly technical pieces of equipment. With selected rubber compounds and tread patterns designed for specific applications, tires can be unique in terms of their use on certain terrain, rotation restrictions, and front and rear installation. This is especially important on mountain bikes. A front-specific tire installed as a rear tire can affect your grip and ability to maintain control. RACE DAY Whether you’re installing new tires or rotating your old ones (non-specific front/rear tires can be rotated), install each tire with the manufacturer’s label centered over the valve stem. This will help you locate the valve stem quickly and give you a frame of reference when you try to locate a problem with the tire, like a puncture. It also shows that you, or the shop that installed the tires, pays attention to detail.

SPOKE PROTECTOR, TAKE IT OFF

You may have wondered about that round piece of plastic mounted behind your cassette. That typically clear piece of plastic is a spoke protector, collectively known as a “dork disc”. Spoke protectors are installed to keep the chain from getting wedged between the cassette and the spokes where they come out of the hub flange and also keep the spokes from being damaged. It is completely unnecessary on any bicycle that has a properly adjusted rear derailleur.

RACE DAY As long as your rear wheel is off the bike so you can properly install and align your tire, you may remove the spoke protector at the same time.

GORILLA TAPE IS YOUR NEW BEST FRIEND

Does your cable housing rub against your frame, leaving it scuffed? Did your bike come without a chain protector on your chainstay? Maybe you just want to keep your bike looking new. Gorilla Tape is a low cost product that everybody should have in their garage. Simply peel off a strip of tape and cut it to fit. If you ever need to replace it, just peel it off, clean your frame, and reapply a new piece. While many prefer it clear, Gorilla Tape is also available in white and black.

THE DISCIPLINE OF THE PROFESSIONAL: DO EASY

The "Do Easy" philosophy simply means doing whatever you do in the easiest most relaxed way you can manage which is also the quickest and most efficient - the professional way. When applied to bicycle maintenance, the methodical and efficient discipline of DE prevents broken parts, tools, hands and hearts. For more about the discipline of DE , watch the '82 Gus Van Sant film, The Discipline of DE. -CR

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CABLES AND HOUSING

Bicycles should be tuned up at least once per year, depending on how often you ride and in what conditions. A typical tune-up includes cable adjustment or cable and housing replacement, front and rear derailleur adjustment, brake adjustment, wheel turn, general adjustments, and lubrication. Your annual tune-up is the perfect time to take the final step towards achieving a pro look. Since the cables and housing are being replaced, consider upgrading the housing by changing to a new color. It’s amazing how impressive a carefully chosen color will make your bike look, especially if you use an accent color versus simply matching the housing to your bike frame. The final touch for a pro look is to make sure the housing is trimmed to the correct length for your front and rear shifters, and brakes. Excess cable is bulky-looking and will prevent your bicycle from performing optimally.

RACE DAY If you’re going to have a shop do the work, always wash your bike before dropping it off. It’s a simple courtesy that shows you’re respectful of your local shop and their mechanic.

PRESTA VALVES: REMOVE THE CAPS

All inner tubes come with plastic caps on the air valves. If you’re using Presta valves (tall, thin valves with a screw closure), you can take the caps off with no adverse effects. Valve caps do not help maintain air pressure. I keep the valve caps on my spare tubes so the valves don’t cut or pierce the tube. But as soon as a spare goes on the bike, the caps stay off. For Schrader valves (like those on automobiles), leave those caps on. They don’t affect air pressure and will keep the air valve clean and free of debris.

FORM FOLLOWS FUNCTION

Though these suggestions may seem like trivial aesthetic considerations, they all have a practical purpose and usefulness that extends beyond conforming to a prescribed look - it's about improving the experience while riding a bike and making the most of the limited amount of time we all have to spend on the saddle.

HANDLEBAR TAPE

If you’ve aspired to have that Euro look and wrapped new, white tape on your handlebars, you may find that after a few rides your nice, new tape is looking a little dirty and weathered. White and light-colored tapes require more maintenance than dark colors, but the upkeep doesn’t have to be difficult. All you need are a few basic items that you probably already have: white, lint-free shop rags and a can of furniture polish, like Pledge, or a bottle of dish soap and some warm water. Simply spray a rag with the furniture polish or dip it in the soap and water mixture, and gently rub your bar tape clean. Make sure to wipe with the curve of the bar tape so you don’t lift the edges or tear it.

RACE DAY Tape too far gone? Neon pink no longer the

fab color? Wrapping handlebars isn't so much an art as a craft that can be practiced and mastered. Wrap on, wrap off. Wrap on, wrap off. Repeat until perfect.

TRIM THE STEERER TUBE

If you’ve read the last few issues of Southern California Bicyclist, you may remember Damon Roberson’s articles on “The Bike Fit.” Once you’ve achieved the proper fit, the next step towards that “pro look” is a properly trimmed steerer tube. Determining the correct steerer tube length is one of the most important tasks of a bicycle fit. Once your stem and handlebar height have been calculated and test ridden, any excess steerer tube (that extends above the stem) can be trimmed off. Just make sure there is enough length left above the stem to slide on a 5mm spacer and the top cap. You always want your stem tightening down on the steerer tube. The stem should never exceed the height of the steerer tube as that can lead to equipment failure. RACE DAY Cutting a steerer tube requires specific tools, especially if you’re cutting carbon fiber. This is best left to your local bike shop.

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time machine

Officially vintage

NOW THAT SCB IS IN ITS 21ST YEAR, we thought we'd

go back to the stacks and see what was going on in the magazine 10 and 20 years ago. In 1996 (left), SCB predicted that Recumbents would be the future of bicycling. Though that didn't happen, it's interesting to note that a few of the recumbent manufacturers are still around today. It may not be the way of the future, but laid-back riders are still here. Also 20 years ago, the Rosarito-Ensenada ride (center) was celebrating

it's 10th anniversary and will be back again this year in May. Ten years ago (right) SCB was covering the beginning of the CX scene which has evolved into a number of well-established and sanctioned series. The names are different, but the enthusiasm and energy we see in the photographs above is identical to what we see today - all smiles in SoCal. -CR

PROFILES

Punk coffee tastes gourmet!

COFFEE TO SOME PEOPLE, PUNK IS A GENRE

of music. But to others, it’s a way of life. For those of us who enjoy faded punk show flyers, local artists, and impressive coffee, Rad Coffee in Upland is the place to be. On the southern most wall, white paint is barely visible beneath the flurry of posters of Black Flag, Misfits, Germs, Fugazi, Descendents, Ramones, etc. On the opposite side of the shop, a black wall features the skull likenesses of owners Rusty and Jade next to works by local artists. Rad Coffee is open every day, morning till night, and we wouldn’t be surprised if they started hosting live music (hint,hint). Rad also provides baked goods from local bakeries, so check their website for the latest creations. Upland sits at the base of the Mount Baldy climb, so be sure to stop by if you're in the neighborhood. -VP

RAD COFFEE

232 N 2nd Ave Upland, CA 91786 radcoffeeco.com @radcoffeeco

Subculture or not, Rad Coffee makes an excellent cup of coffee and are welcoming to the local cycling community. Don't be afraid to pogo!

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DEAN El Vado

PROVISIONS REGULARS

A TITANIUM BIKE FOR THE REST OF US

By Dean Hall Photos by Krystof Andres

ABOVE Highway 39, the road to Crystal Lake, served as the test track for the Dean El Vado. Beginning in Azuza, CA, the stretch of highway offers steep grades, sweeping turns and expansive views. BELOW Local racer and future Euro-pro Dean Hall rides and reviews this bomb-proof rig.

CARBON FIBER BIKES ARE EVERYWHERE from

grand tours and spring classics in the professional peloton to your average weekend group ride with friends, having the opportunity to test ride a titanium bike was a breath of fresh air. The route chosen was a fifteen-mile climb up Highway 39 to the Crystal Lake CafĂŠ and back down. The climb averages around 6% and offers beautiful views of the San Gabriel Mountains in the Angeles National forest. Immediately after swinging a leg over the top tube and taking those first pedal strokes, I knew I was in for one enjoyable ride. The titanium frame offered an incredibly smooth ride, while the carbon ENVE fork managed tight handling and stiffness up front. The surly 28mm tires paired with the bombproof alloy Ksyrium wheels added even more comfort to the already plush ride. Because of this combination, the bike particularly excelled over rougher roads, and even inspired confidence to hit some hidden gravel single track between photo shoots. The bike climbed superb, offering a springy yet stiff exchange when rising out of the saddle to power down on the cranks. (continued on pg. 22)

southern california BICYCLIST #128

the build

FRAME El Vado Frame Size Large Fork ENVE Carbon Road 2.0 Groupset SRAM Rival 22 Cassette 11 Speed 11-28 Crankset Compact 50/34 Wheels Mavic Aksium Elite Tires Vittoria Randonneurs 28mm Saddle Prologo Scratch Pro Seatpost DEAN Titanium Handlebar FSA SL-K Carbon Stem FSA 100mm Aluminum Pedals Crank Brothers Candy 3 Cages PDW The Bird Cage WEIGHT (as shown) 17.12 lbs.

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#128

southern california BICYCLIST

Photo by CR & VP

(continued from pg. 19)

DEAN El Vado

The springy-ness of the bike reminded me of the benefits of an aluminum frame, but without the inherent trade-off of frame flex. The smooth ride and lateral stiffness of the titanium frame balances appropriately with the rigidity of the carbon ENVE fork, especially when pointing the bike downhill. The stable ride provided assurance when diving into and accelerating out of corners, as well as when getting into an aerodynamic tuck for max speed. I also came away very impressed with the SRAM Rival 22 group set. Rival 22 offers the same trickle-down technology as the pricier SRAM groups, with quick double-tap shifting, reliable braking performance, and individual reach adjustments of the brake lever and shifter paddle. Smooth. Stable. Confident. The DEAN El Vado is surely a jack-of-all-trades and, most importantly, you’ll have a BLAST on this bike. Whether it’s climbing a mountain, exploding out of a corner in a race, or tearing it up on a gravel ride, the DEAN does it all. As people seek alternatives to carbon and aluminum, the titanium option becomes even more appealing with bikes like the DEAN El Vado.

More photos available at www.socalbicyclist.com/dean

ABOVE A moment of reflection on highway 39. BELOW Climbing the steady 8% to the top. ACROSS Descending from Crystal Lake

“Smooth. Stable. Confident. The DEAN El Vado is surely a jack-of-all-trades and most importantly, you’ll have a blast on this bike.”

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southern california BICYCLIST #128

PROFILES

customized classics in san pedro By Lizett Bond

FRAMEBUILDER

LOCATED IN A ONE-TIME cold storage

facility for seafood, Jerome Cycles is just blocks from the sprawling Port of Los Angeles. In the former fishing village of San Pedro, owner Jared Jerome creates American-made, handcrafted, “city bikes” inspired by classic European designs. “Handmade frames are popular, but the focus is usually on racing,” said Jerome. “There aren’t a lot of makers concentrating on high-end utility bikes that can be used to have fun, to haul around groceries, or to head out on a bike date like my wife and I do. It’s a different experience.” The community of San Pedro projects a unique vibe due to its diverse culture and a rich, workingclass history. Lured by low rents and the industrial grittiness of the port, newcomers enjoy breathtaking oceanfront vistas and an emerging arts scene. Jerome’s interest in bicycles began at an early age and, by his teens, he began fabricating bar ends and seat post clamps under the tutelage of his father, who traded the parts with a local shop. “It gave me a real foundation in constructing things,” said Jerome. I learned how to turn parts on a lathe, run a mill, and use a TIG welder; those tools weren’t foreign objects to me.” Later, a gig as a welder at a BMX manufacturer during college added to his experience. However, after working in the corporate world as an environmental planner, Jerome longed to be in a shop again. “I would sit at a computer, staring at the screen all day,” he said. “I thought if I could make bikes, that would be it for me.” He began making frames for family and friends in his off-hours, adding a few road-racing bikes to his portfolio. “Every once in a while, I’m fine with building something to go fast,” he said. In 2015, Jerome began building bikes full-time. When it comes to a custom creation, he believes there needs to be an element of trust between customer and builder. “A customer can see the frame

“There aren’t a lot of makers concentrating on high-end utility bikes that can be used to have fun, to haul around groceries, or to head out on a bike-date like my wife and I do. It’s a different experience.”

design, but can’t visualize exactly how the components are going to work together, or how colors will enhance those elements,” he said. “Unless you’re an artist, there aren’t enough drawings available to convey exactly how the customer wants the bike to look. “Steel is more forgiving, particularly when you weigh it down with baskets and racks,” he said. “Plus, it lasts longer. You still see steel bikes from the 40’s being ridden today.” Jerome would like to focus on riders with special needs who are marginalized by commercial markets. A step-through, dirt-touring bicycle is in the works. “Some folks need a bike that’s customized and made specifically to their size,” he said. “We don’t want to shoehorn people into stock-sized bicycles.”

The ultimate reward for Jerome is knowing a client is enjoying one of his creations. “It just feels good when someone comes back from a ride and says, ‘This bike is awesome’.”

Jared Jerome of Jerome Cycles in San Pedro, CA.

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PROFILES

ROADByRUnner Bags Justin Macias

Maker

IN THIS TIME OF COOKIE-CUTTER DESIGNS and mass production, a market is developing for quality, handmade goods. A leading producer of such products in Southern California is Road Runner Bags. Located in the middle of Downtown L.A.’s garment district, this crew of five is producing high quality, durable, handmade bags designed with the cyclist in mind. Whether you’re a local crit/alley cat racer, a purpose-driven commuter, or a recreational rider, they will have a bag to fit your needs at a level of quality and durability you can count on.

TEAM

Within the crew, each one of the seamsters has their own specialty and skills. Brad, Juan, Justin, Ashley, and Ester take rolls of fabric and create their products one bag at a time. Aiding them is the support squad: Warehaus, Pierre, and Bombom (It’s mostly moral support. They are cats). Whether the focus is on creating small bags and accessories from start to finish, or staging the materials for all of the larger bags, watching the team work seamlessly is an amazing sight. Every one of them rides a bike daily, which affirms their motto. All of the bags are made to order, which allows the seamsters to give their attention to every detail. It is also an efficient use of space for their small operation.

The company promotes sustainable practices in the manufacturing of their bags and utilizes plant-based materials in the construction of their durable bags.

OFFERINGS

The range of sizes for their backpacks is extensive, from the Small Roll Top Bag with a 24-liter capacity, to the Americano which has a whopping 110 liter capacity. Such ample range of products accommodates smaller framed individuals as well as those whose size exceeds the norm. Their debut Medium Roll Top Bag is still their most popular bag by far. When making this particular bag, their goal was to meet the needs of the cyclist who wanted a high quality bag with a great warranty, but at a more reasonable price than was currently available. Their line of accessories is just as large, including tool rolls, Burrito bags (handlebar bags), wallets, key fobs, and even a Goodie Handlebar Bag with a right/left specific three-point mounting system that allows for zero sway and sag.

Origin Story

The growth of this local company has been due to its involvement in the local community. Brad started the company in 2011 by making small hip bags and various accessories for himself and friends. Soon he began getting orders from friends of friends, and eventually a steady stream of orders were pouring in. Shortly after that, they debuted their Medium Roll Top Bag. Now they have eleven different backpacks and nearly fifteen different accessories. All of their development over the years has come from their desire to “find a need and fill it.” The Road Runner roll-bags are made in Los Angeles and are created “For Cyclists, By Cyclists.”

When we asked the crew about their favorite story related to his bags, Brad stood up and walked over to a particular bag hanging from the ceiling. There were a few broken buckles and a hole worn straight through to the side panel. It had belonged to a rider who sent the bag back to be repaired after being hit from behind by a car. All bags are backed by a one year, no-questions-asked warranty on all stitching and a full, lifetime warranty on fabric. The bag saved the rider’s life by protecting their spine during the incident. Had the rider not been wearing a bag at all, the story may have ended very differently. Every Road Runner product that can be repaired, will be repaired. If they cannot fix it, Road Runner will provide a new one. For the full photo gallery, visit socalbicyclist.com/rrb. Order online at www.roadrunnerbags.us

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southern california BICYCLIST #128

THE CLIMB ARGUABLY THE MOST DIFFICULT charity ride in the Ventura/Santa Barbara area, the Santa Barbara 100 is a fixture on the Southern California recreation events calendar and a keystone ride of the fall season for some local cyclists. The ride has over 9,000 feet of climbing, with grades averaging 8-10 percent. It features five Category 5 climbs, four Category 4 climbs, one Category 3 climb, and one Hors Category climb: Gibraltar Road. The 6.5 mile climb up Gibraltar Road is considered one of the top five scenic climbs in the U.S. and will host a mountain-top finish for Stage 3 of the 2016 Amgen Tour of California in May. We started lining up at 7:00 a.m., just before dawn. As the sky brightened in the east, we began cruising Santa Barbara’s Cabrillo Boulevard along the beach. The first climb was Gobernador Canyon Road, a Category 5 climb with a fun descent. It was a nice warmup for the climbs coming up. The Foothill Road portion has a 4-8 percent grade with a very short descent, then Toro Canyon climbs 8-10 percent for about a half mile. This is the first truly challenging climb of the day. But from the top, it’s only another half mile to Ladera Lane. Gibraltar Road is a 6.5-mile climb to the 10 mileand-out along the ridge of Camino Cielo. Camino Cielo is unique in that from one side of the road you can see Carpinteria, Montecito, Santa Barbara and Goleta. If you turn 180 degrees, you can see the Channel Islands 15 miles out to sea. The views along many of the routes are very nice, some of the most picturesque being Butterfly Beach, which you can view from the bike path on the bluff above the Pacific. I continued up to La Cumbre Peak - the highest point of the ride. From there the route was mostly downhill with two more Category 5 hills on Camino Cielo. I was thrilled when I saw Painted Cave Road, which is the road off the mountain ridge and the end of climbing. The Painted Cave and San Marcos Road descent is narrow, with steep and tight switchbacks. The rest of the ride on the way to La Mesa is basically flat. I finally arrived at the finish line around 4:00 pm. Tired but happy, I enjoyed a post-ride burrito on the beach with the satisfaction that the extra time and effort I spent preparing and training for the ride was definitely worth it. For event details, visit www.sb100.org

SANTA BARBARA 10 Documented & Written by Charles Lindsey

PREPARATION

I used a Stages power meter to help me manage the ride. I knew I could crank out 200-250 watts without burning any matches, but I would keep an eye on the bike computer during climbs. For the small sections where the grade pops over 10 percent, I could push it over 300 watts, but I knew it couldn’t be for long. More importantly I practiced going up Gibraltar four out of the five weekends leading up to the ride.

THE RIDE

The Santa Barbara 100 is held in midOctober. Starting at Ledbetter Beach, just north of Stern’s Wharf, the route loops around Santa Barbara, then goes south through Carpinteria. Hwy 150 takes you to Gobenador Canyon Road, then you head down Hwy 192 along the backside of Carpinteria and back to Montecito via Toro Canyon Road and Ladera Lane. From Montecito you tackle Gibraltar Road, climbing to the highest point of the ride at La Cumbre Peak, 3,995 feet above Santa Barbara. The route continues along Camino Cielo to Painted Cave and San Marcos Road, and down to Hwy 192. The climb down becomes an easy ride out to Goleta on bike paths leading to Hope Ranch and finally backs to Ledbetter Beach.

let us know how you do!

Join the Southern California Bicyclist STRAVA Group and share your own climbs or submit a photo to theclimb@socalbicyclist.com or post to Instagram - #socalbicyclist.

CLICK HERE FOR THE VIDEO OF CHARLES'S DESCENT DOWN GIBRALTAR 26

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00 overcoming obstacles Charles Lindsey detailed his cycling accident in the Winter Issue of SCB #127 and we wanted to follow-up with him to see how he’s doing.

The Santa Barbara 100 in October 2014 was the last century I rode in before my accident in May 2015. My rehab was complete in early August. The shape that I was in at the time of the accident helped me out immensely, although pain from my pelvic injury took the longest to go away (about seven weeks). The hospital staff and rehab folks were surprised as to how fast I was bouncing back and they’ve given me the clearance to resume cycling. It will be eight months since the accident, and I am pain-free. I am walking any chance I get and averaging about three miles per day. But I haven’t ridden as much as I used to since I had the accident. I have taken the Colnago C60 around Santa Monica out of Helen’s Cycles and rode the new Trek Madone 9.9. Currently, I am rebuilding my bike myself. As soon as I get all the pieces back on, and after a quick check by a mechanic on the rear shifting indexing, you will find me on my bike.

For more writings by Charles Lindsey, visit his collection of posts at Gold Coast Cycling: venturacycling.blogspot.com southern california BICYCLIST #128

EVENTS

You vs. the world Season Preview

REdlands Bicycle Classic

Fever Final: Monument Cross

April 6 - 10, 2016

January 17, 2016

The Redlands Bicycle Classic is the longest continuous running invitational, professional stage race in American bike racing. From humble beginnings in 1985, the event featuring 350 elite racers, has hosted future stars of the Olympics, Tour de France, and World Championships. A cornerstone of the National Racing Calendar, this event is a destination for both spectating and racing, alike. The race purse is almost $40,000 combined for men and women athletes.

SoCalCross finishes the 201516 Season at Whittier Narrows Park at the famed Legg Lake in El Monte. The course is 2.2 miles and it circles around the lake.

The Gravel Gauntlet February 20 - April 2, 2016

The five-event gravel race series begins February 20th with The Tainthammer in Los Banos and ends April 2nd in Panoche Desert Hills. Races range from 75 to 100 miles and terrain will be mountainous and dirt-y. Each ride have will two or three fully stocked aid stations with food and beverages and fresh, preloaded bottles.

Find information on these events and more AT socalbicyclist.com/events

2016 MTB Racing Series Premiers Southridge Winter series #1 January 9, 2016 Southridge Park

Socal Enduro Series #1 January 31, 2016 Vail Lake Resort

Kenda Cup West #1 March 6, 2016 Vail Lake Resort

US Cup #1

March 6, 2016 Bonelli Park For more information on upcoming event series, check out our comprehensive calendar on page 30 or visit us online at socalbicyclist.com/events

The SoCalCross Prestige Series has ended, but the season continues on with the Fever Series Final on January 17 in El Monte.

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EVENTS

recreation

highlights

Help A Cause, Make New Friends

reaching for the cure: Run & Ride March 19-20, 2016

The bicycle portion of this event is on March 19 at Irvine Valley College in Irvine. The running portion will take place the following day. Saturday’s cycling events include routes of 15, 35, and 50 miles with a new KOM/QOM time trial option. Each participant is asked to fundraise for the Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation so that it can continue to fund the most cutting edge research that improves the care and survival rates of children with malignant disease.

Eroica California April 8-10, 2016

Eroica California is a three-day festival and one-day bike ride that embraces the Italian cycling spirit. Throughout the weekend, the Paso Robles Downtown Park will be the center stage for Eroica celebrations, including a vintage bike fair, music in the park, vendor fair, and a Bicycle Concours d’ Elegance awards ceremony. On Sunday morning the bike riders will take off on one of four routes: 38, 67, 85, and 120 miles. Throughout the weekend, Downtown Paso Robles will be abuzz with the Eroica spirit - California style.

full schedule and event details at socalbicyclist.com/events

San Diego Tour de Cure April 9, 2016

It’s the 25th anniversary of the Tour de Cure! The San Diego Tour de Cure will start/finish at iconic Del Mar Fairgrounds. The picturesque coastal routes offer spectacular views of San Diego’s best beaches and quiet mountain ranges of North County. After your ride, enjoy quintessential racetrack favorites including healthy street tacos, live entertainment, a cash bar, and more. Since 1991, Tour de Cure riders have raised over $250,000,000 to help advance the mission of American Diabetes Association and move closer towards the ultimate goal to Stop Diabetes. Route distances include 1, 15, 29, 62, and 100 miles. The 100-mile riders take off at 5:00 am and the 1-mile riders begin at 10:30 am.

FOllow along v

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join the conversation

Twitter @socalbicyclist southern california BICYCLIST #128

EVENTS

2016

CALENDAR

JanuarY 3

FEBRUARY

Sunday

Cross Fever #2 Van Nuys 6 Saturday SoCalCross CX Woodley Park

Southridge Winter Series #1 Fontana Southridge Racing Family MTB: Downhill, XC, Super-D Southridge Park, 92337

Saturday Sunday

Southridge Winter Series #1 Fontana Southridge Racing Family MTB: Downhill, XC, Super-D Southridge Park, 92337

16 Saturday Stagecoach Century

16-18 Multi

Sunday 23 Saturday

Sunday

29-31 Multi

Saturday

Shadow Tours ROAD: 150/100/90/84/73/70/50/26 266 West Imperial Hwy. 92259

California Coast Ride Carmichael Training Systems ROAD: 620+ miles Golden Gate Bridge to La Jolla Cross Fever #3 FINAL SoCalCross CX Whittier Narrows Park, 90032 Southridge Winter Series #2 Southridge Racing Family MTB: Downhill, XC, Super-D Southridge Park, 92337 Southridge Winter Series #2 Southridge Racing Family MTB: Downhill, XC, Super-D Southridge Park, 92337

Ocatillo

San Francisco to San Diego Los Angeles

Fontana

KOM Training Camp Agoura Hills Planet Ultra ROAD Sheraton Hotel, 91301

12 & 6 Hours of Temecula Temecula SoCal Endurance MTB: XC Vail Lake Resort, 92592 SoCal Enduro Series #1 SoCal Enduro MTB: Enduro Vail Lake Resort, 92592

Temecula

GUIDE TO THE CALENDAR WE DO OUR BEST TO COMB THE WILD WEST of cycling event websites to get the information you need to make the most of your time in the saddle. We provide this comprehensive listing, without endorsement, but we ask that you support the events that support the magazine.

Do you have an event you’d like to list? Submit for free at socalbicyclist.com/events

Sunday

Saturday

Sunday

26-28 Multi

Southridge Winter Series #3 Fontana Southridge Racing Family MTB: Downhill, XC, Super-D Southridge Park, 92337 Southridge Winter Series #3 Southridge Racing Family MTB: Downhill, XC, Super-D Southridge Park, 92337

Fontana

Old Caz Grasshopper Adventure Series GX: 50 miles / 4500’ Occidental Community Center

Occidental

Rock Cobbler 3.0 Bakersfield Sam Barn Promotions GX: 100 miles / 7000’ Lengthwise Brewing Co., 93313

Camino Real Double Century Irvine Planet Ultra ROAD: 200 miles / 8500’ La Quinta Inn, 92618 The Tainthammer Gustine California Gravel Gauntlet GX: 110 miles / 350’ Los Banos, CA Southridge Winter Series #4 Fontana Southridge Racing Family MTB: Downhill, XC, Super-D Southridge Park, 92337 Southridge Winter Series #4 Southridge Racing Family MTB: Downhill, XC, Super-D Southridge Park, 92337

Fontana

NAHBS Sacramento North American Handbuilt Bike Show FESTIVAL Sacramento Convention Center, 95814

follow us on facebook /socalbicyclist COMPETITION events with posted participants and results ROAD events with 90% or more paved route MOUNTAIN events with 90% or more dirt trail CYCLOCROSS closed course road/mtb hybrid GRAVEL fire roads, grinders and adventure rides BICYCLISM arts, entertainment and BIKES! MAGAZINE SUPPORTERS help us help you

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SCB.FM presented by

EVENTS

CALENDAR 5

Saturday

5-6 Multi

MARCH Socal Enduro Series #2 Socal Enduro MTB: Enduro Vail Lake Resort, 92592 Southridge Winter FINAL Southridge Racing Family MTB: Downhill, XC, Super-D Southridge Park, 92337

2016 Temecula

Fontana

Menso’s SLO Ride to Hell Santa Margarita California Gravel Gauntlet GX: 75 miles / 350’ Santa Margarita, CA

Mulholland Prelude Agoura Hills Planet Ultra ROAD: D1 - Supported D2 - Unsupported Sheraton Hotel, 91301

Malibu Gran Fondo Malibu Complete Cycling Experience ROAD: D1 - 171km Gran Fondo D2 - 20km Time Trial Four Seasons, Westlake Village, CA 91362 Registration at ridemailibugranfondo.com

Sunday

Southridge Racing Winter FINAL Southridge Racing Family MTB: Downhill, XC, Super-D Southridge Park, 92337 Kenda Cup West - XC #1 Kenda Cup MTB: XC Vail Lake Resort, 92592

Temecula

Kenda Cup West - Endurance #1 Kenda Cup MTB: Endurance Vail Lake Resort, 92592

Temecula

Los Angeles

Saturday Solvang Century SCOR ROAD: 100 miles / 4950’ 62 miles / 3000’ 50 miles / 1850’ Hotel Corque, 93463 Register at bikescor.com

Solvang

Sunday

19 Saturday

Rumble in the Ranchlands Mariposa California Gravel Gauntlet GX: 75 miles / 6250’ Mariposa, CA

Tour of Borrrego Borrego Springs R&R Cycling Club ROAD: 80, 62, 40, 22 miles Borrego Springs High School, 92004

19-20 Multi 21-27 Multi

Solvang Double Century Solvang Planet Ultra ROAD: 200 miles / 8300’ Mariposa, CA

Reaching for the Cure Irvine Pediatric Cancer Research Foundation ROAD: 50 miles / 35 miles / 15 miles Irvine Valley College, 92618 Solvang Spring Tour Solvang Planet Ultra ROAD: 3 and 7 day supported club-type rides. Royal Copenhagen Inn, Solvang, CA

SIGNS & SYMBOLS

Fontana

CicLAvia - The Valley CicLAvia FREE - ALL BIKES WELCOME Arleta High School, 91331

MARCH

US Cup Bonelli XC #1 USA Cycling MTB: XC **UCI C3** Bonelli Park, 93463

San Dimas

Kenda Cup West - XC #2 Kenda Cup MTB: XC Bonelli Park, 93463

San Dimas

Shevock’s Sierra Surprise Foresthill California Gravel Gauntlet GX: 75 miles / 9000’ Foresthill, CA

COMPETITION events with posted participants and results ROAD events with 90% or more paved route MOUNTAIN events with 90% or more dirt trail CYCLOCROSS closed course road/mtb hybrid GRAVEL fire roads, grinders and adventure rides BICYCLISM arts, entertainment and BIKES! SUPPORTERS help us, help you

IS YOUR EVENT NOT LISTED ?

Event listings are FREE! Visit SOCALBICYCLIST.COM/EVENTS to submit your event.

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EVENTS

APRIL

2016

1-3 Multi

San Dimas Stage Race ROAD: 3 stage time trial Glendora Mountain Road (GMR)

2 Saturday

Panoche Desert Hills Firebaugh California Gravel Gauntlet GX: 75 miles / 350’ Firebaugh, CA

3 Sunday

Kenda Cup West - XC #3 Kenda Cup MTB: XC Southridge Park, 92337

8-10 Multi

Eroica California Paso Robles Vintage Steel in Central Coast ROAD: Vintage Bicycles Paso Robles Downtown Park

Mulholland Double Planet Ultra ROAD: 200 miles Sheraton Hotel

6-10 Multi

9 Saturday

10 Sunday

14-17 Multi

US Cup - Fontana Natl. XC #2 USA Cycling MTB: XC **UCI HC** Southridge Park, 92337

Redlands Bicycle Classic “Where Legends Are Born!” ROAD: Stage Races Redlands, CA

US Cup Bonelli XC #3 USA Cycling MTB: XC **UCI HC** Bonelli Park, 93463

Mulholland Challenge Planet Ultra ROAD: 106 miles / 12,700’ Agoura Hills Hotel

Tour de Cure San Diego American Diabetes Association ROAD: 100, 62, 29, 15, 1 miles Del Mar Fairgrounds

Kenda Cup West - XC #4 Kenda Cup MTB: XC Bonelli Park, 93463

GranFondo San Diego Campagnolo ROAD: 105, 56, 34, 20 miles Little Italy, 92101

Glendora

Fontana

Redlands

San Dimas

Augora Hills

US Cup @ Sea Otter XC #4 USA Cycling MTB: XC **UCI HC** Sea Otter Classic

Zion Gran Fondo Planet Ultra ROAD: 77 miles Springdale Town Park

50 Mile Ride for Rwanda RSM Sho-Air MTB: 50, 25, 10 miles Rancho Santa Margarita, 92688

23 Saturday

30 Saturday

Monterey

SuperPro Spring Classic TBD California Gravel Gauntlet GX: TBD TBD Springdale, UT

Catalina Island Gran Fondo Avalon Sho-Air MTB: Catalina Island, CA

Alpine Challenge Kiwanis Club of Alpine ROAD: 25, 51, 63, 99 miles Summers Past Farms Women’s Gran Fondo California Girl Series ROAD: 70, 50, 30 miles Belkorp Agriculture

El Cajon

Calistoga

Del Mar

San Dimas

San Diego

SIGNS & SYMBOLS Monterey

The Boob Ride San Diego ROAD: TBA San Diego Amtrak Station

San Diego

17 Sunday

LA Circuit Race Back on Track Productions ROAD: TBA Los Angeles Int’l Airport (LAX)

The Boob Ride Orange County ROAD: TBA Irvine Amtrak Station

18 Monday

Augora Hills

Sea Otter Classic Largest bike festival in USA MTB:ROAD:CX:GX Sea Otter Classic

16 Saturday

APRIL

CALENDAR

Irvine

Los Angeles

southern california BICYCLIST #128

PROVISIONS

The Socal winter commute

FIVE Things

THOUGH SOME ROLL THEIR EYES when we talk about winter in our part of the world, residents of the mountains and high deserts know that winter is no laughing matter. Check your inventory and if something needs replacing, we’ve had good experience with the products below. -KO

Warm Your mitts CYCLING GLOVES ARE ESSENTIAL for the extra grip they add for

better bike handling and protection during a potential fall. Take into account your ride conditions when shopping for gloves. For lowlands and valley riders, GORE Universal Gloves ($29) are a durable yet light-weight solution (left). They have a clean and simple design with silicon added where it counts for better a grip. Cyclists looking for gloves that hold up on rides through the mountains and high deserts, the Universal Windstopper Mid Gloves ($69) are ideal (right). The Mid gloves have gel padding in the heel and thermo lining in between the fingers for rougher conditions, and finally an overall Windstopper coating used throughout. You can find GORE gear at your local bike shop. www.goreapparel.com

Mind the chain DAILY COMMUTER OR WEEKEND WARRIOR,

no bike should go without a regular chain link check for dry and rusty pins and rollers. For the predicted wet season, set aside the dry lube you’ve been using this past year and try Muc-Off's Team Sky Hydro Dynamic Lubricant ($28). The ease of use and longevity of the lubricant has kept the chain on #peterthepedego silent for over 300 miles, and counting. www.muc-off.com BETA If the rain is a no-show this year, give Muc-Off's biodegradable Dry Lube a run. Both are available at Santiago Cycles in Tustin.

Carry-On YOUR BAG CHOICE CAN MAKE OR BREAK a successful

commute. Wondering how you’re going to transport your electronics and paperwork and how you will switch from Lycra to work attire, may give some bicyclists enough reason just to throw everything in the car. However, Canadian company Two Wheel Gear has a pannier bag that solves most of these quandaries. The 2.0 Classic Pannier ($159 USD) is like the Russian doll of commuter gear, with each zipper opening to another source of storage. The 19” wide pannier holds enough room inside the bag to fit 3-5 hanging garments and space for a 15" laptop in the padded sleeve. In true Canadian fashion, this pannier has a waterproof cover so you won't have to worry about your bag when the downpour begins. www.TwoWheelGear.com

Protect Your skin WE KNOW SUNBLOCK prevents sunburn, but

GLOVE-FRIENDLY LOCKS WE DON'T HAVE TO TELL YOU how important

it is to lock up your bike, but sometimes that's not enough. You want a sturdy, wrenchresistant, hunk of metal to protect your precious machine. What we really like about Kyrptonite's New York Fagettaboudit Mini ($110), beyond being pocket friendly, is that a key is used to lock it. This makes locking easy with gloves on, as opposed to fumbling with a combo lock, which can be impossible without taking off gloves. www.kryptonite.com

it also acts as a barrier to environmental pollutants and locks in moisture on your skin (sunscreen is not just for summer). COOLA is a Southern California sun care company that uses ingredients that mechanically block the sun. Think of it as a lotion made of tiny mirrors that reflect the UV rays off of your skin. The Citrus Mimosa Sport SPF 35 ($36) is great for people with sensitive skin looking for skin products that have a minimal number of ingredients. It’s infused with coconut oil and vitamin E, and it’s sweat and water resistant for over an hour. Plus, it’s has a really pleasing scent - like fresh oranges. www.coolasuncare.com

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CLUBS Club not listed? socalbicyclist.com/clubs

Orange County All-Mountain Trail Riders

meetup.com/allmountaintrailriders

3F Bicycling Club 3fbc.com

Off-Road Off-Road

Beach Cities Women Cyclists bcwcyclists.wix.com/bcwc

Road

Beach Area Recumbent Riders Road bikeroute.com/RecumbentRides.htm Bicycle Club of Irvine bikeirvine.org

Road

Canyon Velo canyonvelo.org

Mixed

Ciclistas Capistrano Bicycle Club ciclistascapistrano.com

Road

Cycles Veloce cyclesveloce.com

Road

OCrider.com ocrider.com

Mixed

Orange Coast ocvelo.com

Road

Orange County Rebel Riders ocrebels.com

Road

Orange County Wheelmen ocw.org

Mixed

Rock n’ Road Divas rocknroadcyclery.net

Mixed

SHARE sharemtb.com

Off-Road

Supercolony supercolony.cc

Road

Team Velo Sport teamvelosport.com The Warrior’s Society warriorssociety.org

Mixed

Off-Road

Trail Angels trailangels.com

Off-Road

TRU Cycling trucycling.org

Mixed

Veloce Santiago velocesantiago.com

Road

VeloViet veloviet.com

Mixed

Los Angeles Beach Cities Cycling Club bccclub.org CORBA corbamtb.com