Potato Chip Grinder

Our route for Potato Chip Grinder

Time for more gravel training. This time we'll chase the Ham-Hock Trail route, subtracting difficulties for the gravel bike riders. Jim Robinson just finished up his Specialized Crux build. Slick red carbon frame with some decent gravel tires. John rode his SCOTT Addict 10-G for this one. He seems to get along well with that 16lb gravel bike. I managed to get a first look at Bruce Phillip's new Salsa Cutthroat bike packing rig. Of course, I was riding my modified SCOTT Scale 710+, with carbon rigid fork and gravel 2.8" tires. Troy rode over from Carlsbad on his TREK full-sus MTB. He said he weighed it the other day and it came in well over 30lbs!

We left San Marcos Ralph's parking lot just after 0800. Weather was clear and supposed to be in the 70's today. I dressed light with only arm warmers and a single layer under the jersey. Worked just right all day. Jumped the Inland Rail Trail over to Escondido and then on down to Lake Hodges Mule Hill Trail. Loaded with runners along the valley, but we soon climbed up and out up the >14% road to Old Coach Trail. This led us around to the Poway Horse/Alley Trails and a short break at Garden View Park.

Troy in search of rattlesnakes!

Quick ride thru Poway and we hit the short Poway Creek Trail, which led to Hill Country Trail. Road riding was next from Pomerado over to Mercy Road. There is was 11 miles of dirt and we entered the Los Penasquitos Canyon network. Canyonside Park was a nice break, where John had his "stomach bloat" stretch out on the bench. We watered up and soon were climbing up Del Mar Mesa Trail. Several side paths and soon we were flying down into Deer Canyon.

Great single-trak riding as we entered Gonzales Canyon. Nice riding there, where we only met a few hikers on the trail. Narrow climbing as we finally were back on the roads again. El Camino Real over the bridge and Coast To Crest Trail was next. Straight to McDonald's for our final break. A few burgers were on order while I sucked down my Choc. Shake. Pumped my tires up to road pressure, 26/28psi with the handy Lenzyne foot pump. In short order, we finished off the Coast To Crest Trail to the coast.

Trail check: Troy, Bruce, John & Kelly

Busy along the coast today. Cyclists everywhere. We hit the Swami's tunnel and then the RR-Track Trail. Two miles of road riding brought us to the Rec. Trail around the golf course. Troy dropped off for his route towards home. A few neighborhood trails and old Rancho Santa Fe Road to the Tunnel Trailhead. Short regroup and we entered the rocky tunnel, then the loose powerline trail. The usual route up to Double Peak via San Elijo Trail around the town.

Once past the Trail Monument, it was all downhill on busy Lakeview Trail to Discovery Lake. Jim bid adios as he short-cut toward home. A short trip thru CSUSM and we were finished!

Looks like we all had a tough, fun ride today.

 Potato Chip Grinder Video

- randorides

Gravel-Itis Training

"Gravel-Itis" route we rode today

I've been researching out "gravel bikes" for a year now. It comes down to several models which meet my requirements, all which are hard to find and try out. 1x11 gearing, wide tires, buried cables, carbon or steel frame and of course price were my main parameters.
- Salsa Cutthroat
- NORCO Search XR
- Specialized Diverge Expert
- Ibis Hakka
These bikes meet most of my requirements.

Rando Sam Thomas has a NORCO Search XR on order.
Rando Jim Robinson is building up a Specialized Crux for gravel.
Bruce Phillips just got a Salso Cutthroat for bikepacking.

I always enjoyed doing dirt recon rides. Do some research online... you know, search RWGPS, Strave and any local blogs for new and interesting routes. Late 2016 and early this year, I did have the opportunity to do several road tests/reviews of the latest "gravel bikes". A mix of road and dirt technology with comfy long distance frames & wider tires. Do to price constraints, I did change my SCOTT Scale + 3" MTB hardtail over to a carbon fork and smoother tires. A little slower on the roads sections, but it has the gearing, traction and minimal comfort with the Al frame. Lots of interest lately in "gravel" riding, so I had been putting together several mixed surface routes. Doing the recon rides and making up the routes on RWGPS takes loads of time, but gravel riders seemed to enjoy it and it makes for excellent training.

Today we rode the Rando Gravel-Itis Training ride. It was around 65 miles with about 1/2 gravel/dirt and the rest made up of road and bike paths. John Mestemacher, Jim Robinson and Mac Imacseng joined in for the ride. Weather was warmish for this time of year and the route was much tougher than it looked on RWGPS. Fortunately, I knew all the dirt/gravel sections having ridden them before, so it knew where I was going. I tried to hang back to catch the riders in the GoPro shots, but that didn't always happen.

We all had a good time, getting back to the finish just as the sun was dropping in the west. At the Ralph's parking lot, rando Bill Stevenson just happen to drive in to get groceries as we were finishing up. Nice time to chat with him on the days events... namely a young skateboarder taking a header on the Discovery Lake bridge. Looks like he broke his arm. Of course, I happened to catch it all on video!

Next Saturday, we'll be doing another "gravel route" in the area. Riders interest looks good, but the weather is supposed to turn much cooler. That means mid-30's at the 0800 start time! Brrrr. I hope to do another video of that advenutre.

Gravel-Itis Training Video

- randorides

Wind & Fire 202

Regular rando Hemet route

Mild temp Santa Ana scheduled for today. What a great time to ride north to Hemet! DUH? Cool temps and light winds from the east as I left San Marcos in the dark and headed northward. Triple layers and knee warmers were adequate for the cool Champagne Blvd. downhill. Quick warm-up as I slogged up over I-15 and finally the fast downhill on new road surface to Hwy. 76. A little breezy sidewind as I climbed past Nessy Burger on Old Hwy. 395 and made my way up past Rainbow.

The sun was up as I looped around Temecula on Wolf Creek Dr. and managed to do a little gravel on DePortola before it passes the vineyards. Time to strip off some layers as I turned on Benton instead of the knarly DePortola via the quiet narrow road I sometimes take. My 28mm tires on the road bike don't like that gravel downhill.

Winds were picking up as I crested Sage Road and starting to gust on the quick downhill toward Hemet. State Street was a real chore into Hemet, so I opted to "get out of Dodge quick" and turned left on Domenigoni Pkwy westward. Weeee! A free pass on the speed as the winds were pushing me along at max speed.

Detour fire route back to San Marcos

A turn on Antelope Rd. landed me on Clinton Keith and California Oaks into Murrieta. Wind blocked Jefferson Ave led to Old Town as the dust, dirt and leaves were blowing everywhere by now. Next stop was at The Bike Shop, where my buddy Joe Morgan was now working. Time to check out gravel bikes. Thirty minutes later, Joe had my list and I was on my way south.

Everything was blowing now as I stopped by Wolf Creek Park. Filling my bottles, I looked at the hills
to the west, sun baked and dimmed by blowing dust. I thought: "Boy, a fire would go right up that hill with nothing to stop it". Palm branches and blowing leaves greeted me as I started the climb up Rainbow Canyon. Big winds were blocked by the surrounding hills. I was in the mid 30mph as I passed Rainbow.Wow, what a fun trip to Escondido on Hwy. 395 with this tailwind! NOT!

My turn southward after crossing I-15 brought unmanageable speed. With the side gusts, I had to brake hard to get the speed down to 12 mph or I'd go over the side. A lone fire truck passed me and then I noticed some smoke to the south. OH, OH. With few options, I decided to continue down Hwy. 395 to the junction with Hwy. 76 (Nessy Burger). There is was.

From the north, I could see smoke on the route

Fire burning from I-15, under the 395 bridge and up thru the mobile park and hills above. Also the fire was raging westward down the San Luis Rey River Valley along Hwy. 76. Option time. Go West! I did at super speed. I left the fire behind but not the smoke. Traffic both ways on Hwy. 76 was heavy. After a few stops, I made it to Bonsall McDonald's were I got a water refill and some fire chat.

Smoke was high above by now and time for me to plan a route back to San Marcos. Lilac Rd. and Camino del Rey wouldn't be an option as fire/smoke looked to be heading that way. Bonsall intersection was a mess with fire trucks, police cars, horse vans and car traffic.

OFR Group ride picture from Las Plugas           -Paul Nevin

I finally made my way west and turned south on N. Vista Way. Into Vista town, I followed Santa Fe Avenue eastward back to San Marcos. The smoke was all north of me now. Late afternoon and the smoke covered the sun... but I was home at last!

Yes, I left one bottle at the Temecula Wolf Creek Park water fountain! 

- randorides

Don't Forget "Forgotten Roads"

"Forgotten Roads" Map

A few weeks back, rando John Fry asked about Boulder Creek Road.. the part-gravel road from Descanco up to near Julian. I mentioned why not do a Rando route called "Forgotten Roads"?. I mentioned this to my buddy John Mestemacher and soon posted it up on the SDrando board for a 0800 start today.

John picked me up around 0630 for the drive up to Alpine. We some how managed to work my SCOTT gravel MTB into the back of John's Honda Element next to his gravel bike. John didn't get lost on the new way via Hwy 52 either! Plenty early, we saw Mac Imacsing getting ready, along with Jim Robinson. Soon Dave Horwitt rolled by on his heavy laden, fendered bike. After some chit chat, mini muffins from Mac and a trip to the local McDonalds, we were off before 0800. Temps were supposed to be 58F at the start and warm to the 70's today. So it was!

Viejas Grade Road look-back toward Casino

Stiff legs on the downhill were met with the short 13% climb up to Willows Rd. Soon Mac & I were chatting about how long it was since he cycled last.. Ya, ya.. heard that before. Nice roads and no traffic thru the Viejas Reservation were soon interrupted by breezy winds and gravel climbing up Viejas Grade to Descanso. The road was in excellent condition and we only met a few cars and one construction crew. The headwinds were picking up around each corner as Dave was out ahead.

Our little gruppo of 4 was motoring along on the 4-7% grade when Jim hit some loose gravel and slid down as a SUV approached. All dusty, no loose skin and a little embarrassed, Jim rode on with no side effects except "caution ahead". SUV driver stopped to see if all was well. Of course it was. Finally we reached hard road and some pleasant fast downhill to Perkin's Store, Descanso. Time for a mini break.

Descanso Perkin Store. Last stop for a while!

Dave was outside eating chips, John over by the Post Office nibbling his carry-along sandwich, Jim wiping off his dusty shorts and Mac was stretching out his sore back. I stole away inside the store for a little chit-chat with the grumpy looking lady about some water from her sink. She was quite nice and offered better filtered water/ice at the cola machine! Great. Getting ready to roll, several visited the porta-potty/wash station by the gas pumps. I offered Mac some "White Flower" Chinese medicine, but he indicated he had a hot/cold pack on his lower back already. Go figure. Away we went for more climbing.

A few steep rollers greeted us on worn out Oak Grove Road. Then it was a whole lot of fast downhill on Boulder Creek Road. The water crossing was dry, but the wind picked up to full headwind style as Dave and I fought it off the front of the pack. We had a regroup at the transition to gravel. Up and down we went on washboard and soft sand corners. I made a stop near the working ranch to chat with a deer hunter getting beer out of his roadside truck. Chug-a-Lug time.

Typical climb up Boulder Creek Road: Good condition today!

More gravel climbing with a few hunters trucks before we regrouped at the Three Sisters Trailhead. John and I had a short flashback to another ride thru here when he was lying on the dirt under the sign, sick as a dog! We were soon off with Dave out front. I was full out on the gravel downhills with my 3" tires biting well. A few more double digit climbs before the final assault up to the junction of Engineer Road. We stopped at the Forest Service Station there and I finally found water around behind one of the buildings. Looked like the vintage fountain out front hadn't been used in years.

Mac's back was really hurting by now and I offered the solution: Chinese "White Flower". The only problem was I didn't pack it in the bag! DUH! A couple of Vit. B-6 would have to do. More low digit climbing as we were on smoother roads now... Eagle Peak over to Pine Hills. A nice downhill as Dave was almost taken out by a deer herd scampering across the road. A final regroup and the last climb up to Julian on Hwy. 78. Tourist time!

WOW! This place was packed, as usual on a weekend. Thirty person line-up at the pie place and Harley's galore. Dave picked up a sandwich at a shop as the rest of us cruised over to Cozen's Station. Water, Dr. Pepper and Vitamin Water was the liquid of choice. After sitting around for a while, most hit the outside porta-pottys and we finally left the crowds behind.

John was zipped-up from the caffeine kick and led out up the busy Hwy. 79 toward Lake Cuyamaca. Near the Lake, the gradient eased and the pace picked up. I was geared out on my 30x10 ratio, as Jim and Mac slipped away. I was sucking wheel @ 120 cadence. Passing the Cuyamaca Store, I pulled up to John and ask him "where the fire was"! Final regroup at the Ranger Station at the top before the quick downhill back to Descanso on busy Hwy. 79.

Dave, Jim, Kelly hike-a-bike!

Dave and Jim were long gone as I shadowed Mac on the way down. Spin-O-Rama time! Soon we were back together and cruising on Hwy. 79. Fun time ahead as we turned onto Wildwood Glen Ln and crossed the bridge. Old Hwy. 79 ends up with a gate. Riding around, we soon noticed  the old Hwy. deteriorates to a path as it passes several San Diego wells. Then to a rutted gravel path and finally the fun part of a hike-a-bike down a embankment to I-8. Dave managed a butt dirty, slip-slide down the dirt to cap off this section.

Following a short clean-up, it was mostly all downhill past the Viejas Casino, over I-8 on Willows Road and Old Hwy. 80 back to Albertson's parking lot. After a few slaps on the back on how great we all were, John, Mac and I wandered over to McDonald's for the reward. I'm buying!

As I walked up to the counter to order, John was ushered over to the digital kiosk and promptly persuaded to order. Shake time: vanilla for John, strawberry was Mac's choice and I opted for chocolate. Mac & I were chatting as John dialed home. Suddenly a woman leaving the bathroom, slipped and hit her head on the metal corner wall-edging on her way down. John was up quick offering assistance as we waived McDonald's staff over. Some old lady was quick to point out one tile was a bit higher than the others and might have caused the fall. The lady was rubbing her head and didn't know where she was. Looked like the makings of a lawsuit. We vacated the premises in due order!

- randorides

Bike The Coast/TCSD Meet-Up

Richard invited me for a short TCSD ride today.

Richard Duquette sent me a form email about the Tri Club of San Diego doing a short ride to San Clemente today. Richard is the lawyer who helped me out way back in 2007 (road rage accident) and again last year (SUV run over in San Marcos town). They were leaving from Las Pulgas parking lot at 0830. Thought I would plug in a rondo route to hook-up.

Ursa Minor it was. Temps have been "cooling" of late with hi's in the low 70's. That's called a "cool off" around here this time of year! I layered up with a T-shirt & long sleeve shirt under my RUSA jersey. On top was my home-made reflective vest for the early start. Knee warmers for the first time this year too! I rolled out dark-early.

Normal route around thru Solana Beach. Along the coast I noticed more and more cyclists as I approached Oceanside. I pulled over and chatted with several ladies. They had numbers on their carbon bikes. Part of the "Bike The Coast" event today. Looks like it started at the Oceanside Pier. Thousands of riders massed in the area. I couldn't wait to head northward.

It was warming up by 0800, so I stripped off my outer layers at the I-5 NB Rest Area (took NB I-5
instead of thru Camp Pendleton route). Quite a few motorists sleeping in their cars there. Chatted with a few people before blazing north to Las Pulgas Exit.

Richard was there with others TCSD members. Chatted with him a bit and noticed a "fast" group doing a U-turn at the parking lot gate. I figured I could hook up with them so I left Richard and finally bridged the gap to the gruppo. Easy riding into a slight headwind from there to San Clemente. Made my way to the Donut Shoppe in SJC for a receipt.

Positive energy at Oceanside Pier: Bike The Coast

On the way back, had a slight hope of a tailwind. Instead it was neutral to the campground. After a refill had some easy peddling back to Las Pulgas hammering it out with a tri-rider. Left Richard a RANDO Card on his car before turning onto I-5 for the quick trip southward. Stopped at the Rest Area to strip off my long sleeve layer. Ahhhhh! Made quick work of the clean bike lane to Oceanside.

Massive "Bike The Coast" riders awaited me as I passed the Pier. Live music was blasting as I sat on a bench overlooking the amphitheater, enjoying the tunes. Hundreds of cyclists were milling around, paying homage to the food vendors. Lots of positive energy around here today. Chatted with one rider who said there were 500 signed up for the 100 mile ride and thousands signed up for the other distances. I could have sat in the sun for hours, but needed to head east to San Marcos instead. What a day.

- randorides

Nate Harrison Beat-Up

"Nates Way" rando route. I did part of this one today.

Thursday OFR Gruppo were doing a little ride from Lake Henshaw, up East Grade to Mother's Kitchen, then on up to Palomar Observatory with a return via So. Grade Rd. back to Henshaw. I figured I could ride Lake Henshaw Century rando ride and hook up with them at Henshaw parking lot for a short early morning "hello" before riding on to Santa Ysabel. Good Idea.

I prepped up the SCOTT MTBG bike and rolled out in the dark. Hit the 7-Eleven for a start receipt and headed eastward toward Escondido. Noted a "grinding rub" on my front brake rotor. Played around with that a bit before finally stopping and doing a full front pad adjustment. Thirty minutes later, things were fine and I was running real late. Time to rethink my options as I ground up the hill and down into Valley Center. Wouldn't have enough time to do Rincon/Harrah's and Hwy. 76 climb to Lake Henshaw for the 0930 meet-up. Time to change the route... How about "Nate's Way"? I'd go up Nate Harrison dirty grade and meet them at Palomar Mtn/Mother's Kitchen. Sounded good as I balanced on the mini-bike lane towards Valley Center High School.

Look-back shot of Nate Harrison Grade

After the hi-speed run down Cole Grade Road into Pauma Valley, things were starting to heat up as I turned onto the placid Harrison Grade Rd. thru orange groves. The minute you're on this road, you start to go up. It sort of sneaks in to 5% grade where you think it's level! Up, up and away?

Gears weren't the problem today. With a 30T ring on the front and a 10-42 cassette on the rear, I had plenty left over. I was grinding up the 12-14% dirt grades, making a few stops for water breaks along the way. Finally reaching the tree line, I was welcomed by the stop at Nate's Monument in the shade. BIG MISTAKE! Black flies and swarms of mosquitoes were on me in a flash. Oh, crap. One hand on the bars, the other one fanning my face as I crept up the rutted, rough, rocky road. Looks like they hadn't graded this section since the last time I was up here last year. I was about gassed as I finally reached the stop sign and hard surface again. Don't know where the flies and mosquitoes went.

Ex-Memorial plaque on Nate Harrison Grade

More uphill as my legs ached and I wondered if I would ever get over to Mother's Kitchen. Made it. OFR gruppo was over by the bathroom. After a few pictures and brief chat, several of them left for the 5 mile jaunt up to the observatory. I couldn't wait for my ice cream sandwich and drink at the Store. Stretching out in the porch chair, I was  relaxed enough to enjoy the moment.  OFR'er Tom Hanson finally left for So. Grade. Several old Harley riders arrived and we passed around some bull about how great we weren't. Refreshed a bit, I was soon off downhill on So. Grade Road.

With my 3" rubber, I was flying down the rough road when I noticed a rider walking up. Pulled over and chatted a bit. He said he was with a group that spent the night in Carlsbad and were doing Palomar Mtn. today. He was cooked and was cramping. I gave him some lame advice, 2-B6 tabs and answered a few questions. "Is there a liquor store at the top?" Amazing!

As I rolled downhill, I noticed another rider walking up. He was a short stocky guy... built like a sprinter. Being a good rando guy, I pulled over. No cramping, but out of water. I mentioned a spring fountain up the road a bit for his near refill. He had a much better attitude and mentioned "they bit off more than they could chew today"! Really?

Down near the bottom of East Grade, another Asian member of the group was pulled over under a tree. After a brief chat, he had only one bottle of water and asked: "where does it level off" Haha. I said "it levels off at the top by Mothers Kitchen"! Soon the other two riders rode down and met up. I suggested they go to the nearby Campground and see if they could get some water before riding any further. They mentioned several more riders way behind climbing Hwy. 76. LOL. I turned the corner and headed eastward on Hwy. 76.

Santa Ysabel TTr. closed due to dirtslide

Made a short refill stop at the Henshaw Store. OFR cars were parked quietly on the side lot. Mesa Grande was a slog, even with the super gears. Nice and quiet with bits of shade today. Couldn't wait for the Black Mtn. dirt.

BM Road was in good condition, with some washboard at the top and only met one car. Upper Santa Ysabel Trail was shut off and under repair near the bridge. Looks like dirt slide. Went back to BCRd and headed for Ramona instead. Did the double jog and soon arrived in downtown Ramona. Time for a $2 Choc. Shake at McD's with my water refill. Nice. Finally got out of town and all the sewer grates and traffic. Some traffic on Highland Valley Road, but I could handle that with the end in sight. Took the back way thru Hodges via dirt path to catch a little more dirt before jumping on El Ku and making my way back to San Marcos.

Interesting day and a whole lot more miles than Nate Way- I'll call it "Nate Harrison Century Trail" instead.

- randorides

Catalina Round Triper

Full route map from today's ride

Some new roads awaited on Catalina as John Mestemacher and I planned this short notice ride. I had emailed several randos and posted it up on the SDrando blog. Several riders showed interest, but as usual, no takers. Joe Morgan (ex-Nytro) and John Bruce (ex-fire captain) would meet us in Oceanside for the ride up to Dana Point. Nice to have some company and get updates on the latest biker-speak.

I was prepped for a early depart for the scheduled 05:15 start time, Zaharah mentioned that there was a mass shooting in Las Vegas, so I was glued to the TV catching the details. After humping it roadie style to the AM/PM San Marcos start, I was still late by 12 minutes. John was hanging around wondering if he had the wrong start point. After grabbing a receipt, we were off in a flash.

John's tubeless tire repair

We'd need a few short cuts to make up for lost time and we decided on N. Twin Oaks Road in lieu of the increased traffic going up Deer Springs to Hwy. 395. Seems everyone was driving to work at the nursery or the quarry about then and many cars passed us as we climbed up Twin Oaks. After we lumbered up the 14% short grade to the top, it was a fast downhill to Gopher Cyn. Road. For some reason there was light traffic as we sped westward. Checking my helmet mirror, John's light was no where to be seen. After a short turn-around, I found him roadside with his rear wheel out!

Bad cut in his tubeless tire. After a wipe-down of the Orange Sealant, I added a Parks tire boot to the mix and John put in his carry-along tube to finish the job. A short cell call home had his wife delivering a new tire and floor pump to our Denny's meet up spot in Oceanside. We were soon off to Little Gopher Cyn and points west. I noticed straight away that his rear tire repair was loosing air. One thing I didn't do well, was feel carefully inside the tire for sharp objects before John buttoned it up. Not good. Several bike path stops to re-airthe tube put us at Denny's before 0800.

Carnival Cruise Ship @ Avalon Bay

John Bruce was there chatting with Gabbie (John's wife). No show Joe. Un-thoughtfully, I was chatting with JB as John was changing his tire. We hastily rolled out at 8:05 and were soon on the noisy I-5 northward at a fast clip. I was easily geared-out on my SCOTT modified MTB. No bathroom stops this trip. JB was pulling hard @20mph as I bounced around on my saddle.

Well after 0900 as we met little traffic thru San Clemente and flew toward Dana Point. Another short cut and we rolled into the Landing @ 09:35. Ferry leaves at 9:40! John picked up the boarding passes and I hit the bathroom. We all went to the railing and watched a long line load onto the ferry. We bid JB "adios" as we were the last to load. Time to relax and load up some carbs on the trip to Catalina.

Top of the climb view

The Ferry was full up as we motored westward. The captain deviated southward as we neared the island to intercept a pod of dolphins. Passengers were running around a taking pictures as the dolphins danced around the Ferry. Interesting indeed! There also was a large Carnival Cruise Ship anchored in the bay. We were the first off after the gangplank was secured and headed for the bathrooms.

After filling our bottles with tepid water, we were off into the masses of tourists for the few blocks of flat riding before hitting the hills. Up, up and away. Not many carts as we kept dropping gears to match the steep road out of Avalon. A hour later we were at the top overlook. The cruise ship looked tiny way back down in the Bay. After a short rest, we were off on gravel/bumpy roads to the Airport. Two buffalo bulls were rutting around near the campground as a couple of hikers sat nearby taking a break.

Beautiful tile map of Catalina Island

Rollers, rollers and more rollers as we finally climbed to the Airport In The Sky. They have a large raised tile map of the island out front of the restaurant. We grabbed a few overpriced drinks and headed to the back patio, where we joined one family and a lone ambitious squirrel. John was intently watching the squirrel hop up on a table and take napkins from the napkin dispense, pack them into his mouth and scurry off. John made friends with a little girl, as she kept staring at him in his white rando jersey. We hung around for a while, discussing the ride options. We decided to forgo the trip down to  Little Harbor and just do the bumpy return route instead.

About a mile in, I finally decided to let a few lbs of air out of my 3" tires. About 5 lbs each made a great difference on the rough road. We both welcomed the smooth sections of gravel mixed in. Past the campground again, one lone bull lay guarding the gravel  road in. A while later, we stopped at the zip-line to observe several thrill seekers gliding down. Next up was a short ride around to Descanso Beach and the end of the zip line.

Little girl admires Rando John

I just had to check out the "Von's Express" store. Prices weren't too high there. $1 for a Gatorade beats the $2.50 elsewhere. Finally we made our way to the pier and sat in the sun watching the Cruise Ship shuttle passengers back and forth. Local fisherman was trying his luck so we kept chatting with him about showing us his big  catch. NOT. After a while, the cruise ship slowly made it's way southward as we lined up for the full-up ferry ride back to Dana Point.

We had several seats in the back, so we could easily check on our bikes and still catch a rest. Beautiful sunset as we neared Dana Point. Only 1 hr 15 minute trip back. At 7:00, we were out of the bathroom, bottles filled and rolling south with lights blazing. Reflective vests and arm warmers were in vogue.

Ferry wake hi-lights sunset over Catalina Island

No traffic at all as we only managed one red light all the way thru San Clemente. A short stop at San Onofre bathroom #1 and more quiet riding southward. We opted for I-5 south to normal traffic and littered bike lane. Time for "HIGH" setting on the Cygolite as the passing traffic wasn't lighting up the bike lane as I expected. At Harbor Drive Exit to Oceanside, I rode over a pile of glass I knew was there!

Quiet cruise thru Oceanside as John informed the Ms. he would be home around 10:30 PM. He was close as we departed company on Coast Highway. After a "bush" stop, I struggled home before 11:00. After clean-up, stretch and food, it was near 1:00 AM before I hit the sack. Long day on the road, for sure.

- randorides

Fix My Bike Hook-Up

Fix My Bike Route: We started in Bonsall.

September arrives and temps in the 100's! Sounds OK to me as several of us pondered the short Populaire RBA Dave had scheduled for today (Saturday). I wasn't particular enthused about racing with the group up Champagne Blvd at noon with no breeze and temps approaching the century mark. After pondering for a minute, I ask John Mestemacher if he wanted to start early up at the Bonsall Control and meet up with the randos in San Marcos around their 0700 start time! OK from him on this and several others might join in too.

John swung by San Marcos to pick me up and offered a chance to catch up on his recent events. Arriving in Bonsall early, I noticed the lone Donut Shoppe behind McDonald's was already open. Keith Olsen arrived for the ride, adding to his quest for a 2017 K-Hound Award. Also fireman John Bruce showed up to add some gossip and updates as we rode along. AM/PM had cheap stuff for a start receipt and free ice. We were off at 0530 to no traffic and dark skies. John B's tail light was on "automatic".. that is, when he hit a bump it would either go ON or OFF! That matched his double AAA batteries, which were fading fast.

Adequate chit-chat as we shifted into cruise gear thru little early traffic and climbed up Champagne Blvd to temps in the 60's. We lah-de-dah'd around a bit and finally arrived at San Marcos Albertson's early. Keith and I went inside as the others chatted with a few randos assembled for the ride. RBA Dave mentioned the early start in Bonsall was a great idea and I should have let him know in advance. I responded by suggesting he "check his email from yesterday". Hector was a little late and soon joined Ben Hian and Bob Coleman as we rolled out toward Del Dios Highway.

Solana Domut Shop: She has yet to smile!

The usual "race mode" was on for a few riders as we rolled thru Rancho Santa Fe and on to LaCosta Donut Shop for our control break. Keith locked himself in the bathroom as we gobbled our donuts outside (John bought Red Velvet today for me). Minutes later we were among the weekend riders along the coast.

Jumped a CAF group who were pace-lining northward and they pulled us thru Carlsbad @ 20+mph. Short regroup... past the pier and on to the San Luis Rey Bike Path. Dave D./Ben did most of the pulling along here as we added riders to the train. John M. took a turn up front as I tucked in and enjoyed the draft. Quick trip on Hwy. 76 to minimal traffic as temps were into the 90's and it was only 1000. McDonald's was air-con cool as I loaded up my cone with a Vanilla GU Gel. Ten minutes later, we bid farewell to the others as they entered the heat chamber back to their finish in San Marcos.

On the ride back to San Marcos, John & I had plenty of time to plan some future weird rando events.

- randorides

Catalina Ride

Full route from San Marcos to Catalina Island

After the recon ride earlier this month, all looked well and interest seemed high for the inaugural "Dana Point XP" route. Several riders expressed interest in doing the up and back, while a few wanted the train option either way. So Friday it was. ( Weekends are poor for train connections)

Plenty of emails later, we ended up with just 4 riders at the early San Marcos start. John Mestemacher rode in from down the hill in Carlsbad, Mac Imacseng had the wife get up early to bring him ( originally scheduled for Keith to pick him up), Dave Horwitt drove in from San Diego and I just rolled in a few miles from home. Ready well before the 0300 start time, we waited around for Mac to load his bike and put on reflective gear (neat handy "Y" vest). We were off to a groggy start.

We stopped to see if Mac's uncle really worked here?

Due to no traffic this early, we managed to deviate from the route a bit and took some main roads over to Champagne Blvd. Chit-chat was in abundance as Mac's rear light was mounted parallel with the seat stay and offered a blinding vision from behind. After a few jeers, he was tool-less and unable to move the light, but soon discovered his other light hidden up under the seat. John was on a hi-speed lead-out on Camino del Rey over to Bonsall. Weather was just perfect.

Bonsall AM/PM had locked out the adjacent McD's  bathrooms as we refilled our bottles and were soon off to the San Luis Rey Bike Path cruising along and arriving in Oceanside near 0515. Traffic was backed up at the main Camp Pendleton Gate, so the I-5 option was in play.

Dana Point Harbor lin- up for Ferry Boarding Passes

Mac sped away on I- 5 and narrowly missed a tire just before the Rest Stop exit. Traffic was heavy and even the Rest Stop was full with drivers napping in the early hours. Good speed as we paced thru the San Onofre Campground. Time for headlights off entering San Clemente town. I mentioned to Mac about his "uncles donut shop", so we made a stop to see if the owners were Cambodians like Mac. Mmmm... the old lady was from Laos and the younger one.. we never did find out. A donut later we soon entered the new bike way to Dana Point, arriving at the Harbor before 0700. Time to line up to get ferry boarding passes.

Leaving Dana Point, Dave & Mac enjoy the view

John picked up my passes as I relaxed by the dock, taking pictures and stretching out. Overcast morning along the coast as early boaters motored by. We watched as passengers started boarding the ferry. Dave got a little antsy and lined up, but soon returned for a "last on, first off" boarding. We strapped our bikes in and were soon underway right on the advertised 0745 departure time.

Excited passengers were moving about, so we mostly stayed put in the fantail near our bikes. Great chance for some pictures and different views as the Catalina Express made way @30 knots toward Catalina Island. No dolphins this trip, but Mac & I spotted a "whale" in the distance (unconfirmed, of course)!

Cycling Permit required for riding inland on Catalina

I was expecting bright sun as we approached Catalina, but alas, slight clouds covered the island. We debarked in a minute and hit the dockside bathrooms first. This place was a buzzing. A few cranks later, we were at the Catalina Island Conservancy to pick up cycling permits for inner-island riding. (These are required to ride or hike on little traveled inner island roads/trails). Cost is around $30 for a year use and offering discounts on camping and other special uses.

After jutting around several side streets, it was all UP! Leaving Avalon toward the inner island is nothing but pure elevation gain. After 1.5 miles, there is a junction, gate and zip-line entrance. Traffic almost ceases beyond the gate (permit needed) as we continued our upward trend, stopping at several overlooks for photo-ops. A few Eco-Tour vans passed as we finally made it to the top overlook, 4 miles later.

This MW tower looms over all of Catalina Island

Gate with crawl-thru hole awaited, as I opted to half-ride around the fence on a little trail. Dave & Mac passed their bikes thru, as John took the side path around. Soft sand as we started our gravel ride up to the tower. This MW tower can be seen from most of the island, so we figured we were at the top and nothing left now but downhill. Wrong again! Divide Road was in good shape as we followed the up and down rollers and soon passed a 2-man crew putting the roof on a small roadside pit-toilet. Good idea for hikers and bikers up here.

We wanted to go left, but had to go climbing right instead

Junction ahead with sign. Left was downhill ( I believe to the Botanical Gardens ), No Bikes! RIGHT was uphill and said "Avalon-6 miles". Only 6 miles? No problemo we thought as we started more climbing. Dave with his triple chain-ring and me with 10-42 cassette driven by a 30T ring up front had enough gears for this one. Mac had cross-gearing on his Ibis and even John with his gravel bike had traction slippage. A little HIB encountered on the 17% section and with a few rocks thrown in made for a tough climb. When finally reaching the "top", time for some photos & deep breathing.

Mac & John find it hard to restart on steep gravel slopes!

A few miles of gravel downhill weren't the easiest with scattered rocks and loose stuff. Dave tipped over after sliding in loose gravel and had a few scratches. A long time later, we reached the gate and smooth riding again on the tourist looped Wiggly Road. A few marked photo overlook stops for views of the harbor before we looped down and were back near the water again. Time for lunch.

Dave hit a small roadside shop straight away. Mac and John rode around and found a deli across from "Von's Express" store. We ended up sitting dockside in the shade gulping our overpriced colas from a nearby machine. Later on, I suggested a short ride around Lover's Cove to check things out. On the wind aided ride back, we could see our return Ferry coming into Avalon Bay. Line-up time.

Leaving Catalina Island, John reflects on a good day.

Deploying the same "last on, first off" theory, we waited for the return crowd to clear before boarding. Soon we were departing the now sun-drenched island for Dana Point. Thirty minutes out, we were all relaxing and enjoying the hum of the engines. Smooth passage all the way back, arriving at 3:15 to partly cloudy skies and warm temps. After a bathroom break and water refill we were off to San Clemente.

Mac & I decided to jump the Metro to Oceanside. John rode with Dave via the busy I-5 down toward Carlsbad, where they parted company as John rode home and Dave went back to San Marcos. With all the hub-bub stuff in Oceanside, I split with Mac as he rode south to Solana Beach and I took the SLRBike Path back to San Marcos, arriving well before dark.

With the early start, ferry ride and unique cycling on the island, this day was a good one. More adventures to come.

Full Ride Video

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San Marcos To Santa Catalina Island Recon

Map of the full 225 mile route

Always looking for another "different" sort of rando route, I figured Catalina Island would fill the bill. Take the ferry from San Pedro, land at Two Harbors, cycle across the Island to Avalon, jump a afternoon ferry back to the mainland and continue on the rando route to ?. To be all inclusive, you would be adding 4 hours(ferry time) and no credit for the ferry miles. Add to that the big climb out of Two Harbors on "gravely" roads (included in route distance & time) and a rando shorter route wouldn't work at all (200km or shorter). I surmised it would have to be a longer route of at least 300 km. to have enough cushion to finish within the time parameters established by RUSA.

Bike Pass, Membership Card and Catalina Express info.

Rethinking my priorties, I decided on a route start from San Marcos for sure. Change the ferry to one leaving from Dana Point. 204 km with a time limit over 13 hours! Leave San Marcos, ride to Dana Point, ferry to Catalina, ride to the Island Airport and back, ferry to Dana Point, ride back to San Marcos. Take out 3 hours ferry ride time and the non-ride time on Catalina and that leaves around 8 hours to ride a 200km+ route. A flat tire or bathroom break and you're done!

I finally settled on a San Marcos to Dana Point route (102km). Reverse it for the ride back. Leave out all the things on the Island and just ride around and enjoy yourself there. Submitted and approved, it became RUSA Route #3392, "Dana Point XP". Next up was the full recon ride.

Full sun as the Ferry approaches Avalon

Leaving San Marcos early in the dark (start time is predicated by the Catalina Express Ferry departure time from Dana Point) the route follows a non-traditional path around Palomar College before hooking up with the well ridden route to Champagne Boulevard. Weather was overcast and I had my arm warmers pulled up on the downhills. Standard fast section to Bonsall, where the McD's wasn't open but the AM/MP was. Then a few very fast Hwy.76 miles (smooth and nice) before departing for the quiet San Luis Rey Bike Path to Oceanside.

Depending on early traffic thru the Base, I opted for the I-5 speed run up to Las Pulgas Road. As usual, some interesting things going on a the mandatory Rest Stop ride thru. See VIDEO for some fun things. Lots of campers at San Onofre Campground but didn't meet any early cyclists. Bathroom #1 seems to be always open year round and water refill was in order there. Normal Trestles Bike Path surfer traffic. I see more and more of them riding electric fat bikes with surf-board mounts!

Up on top, half-way to the airport

After my normal donut stop in San Clemente (where they always throw in a few free donut holes), I was off to easy riding on the newly finished bike way along Coast Hwy. and arrived at Dana Point Harbor well before Ferry departure time of 0745.

I had a reservation, so got my boarding pass in short order (one for me and one for the bike). Rode around checking out boats and ended up sitting on a bench, relaxing and talking to several passengers while others boarded the Catalina Express. The "Express" was built with it's sister ship in 1994 at Greys Harbor, WA. Plenty of horsepower from it's twin engines drive this mono-hull up to 32 knots.

Once underway, I spent most of my time in the fantail near the bike or wandering around taking
pictures. This trip was sold out, but there were a few empty seats as others were up top in the wind or in the bow taking pictures. Ferry slowed while a pod of Pacific White Sided Dolphins darted under and around us. Approaching Santa Catalina Island, the sun broke thru and it felt like the South Pacific!

Some bad buffalo rutting around this pond.

After landing at 0915, it was a bit of a scramble. Hit the dockside bathroom, refilled by bottles and rode over to the Island Conservancy to pick up my inland cycling pass. I had registered online last week and handed a copy of that over to the clerk. Within a few minutes had the permit in hand and after a quick chat with some hikers was soon off. Went down by the waterfront and soon found out it was blocked off to cyclists/cars. Found an alternate route and within 3 minutes was into the climb out of Avalon. Up, up and away! Started out with several double digit "gasper"s!

Mile 1.6 has a junction. Right is the "tourist" scenic one-way road back down to Avalon via the Zip Line start. Left has a gate. Travel beyond requires a permit. I rode around the arm and continued climbing on the deteriorating hard surfaced road. Around mile 4 the road levels out and turns to gravel. Also there is a gravel road to the left called "Divide Road". It's supposed to circle around Avalon. I'll check it out next trip. Continuing on, the road was off and on gravel with several scenic overlooks. Passed a small park like setting that looked to have outside water but was filled with buffalo! For sure, I didn't stop there but continued up and down to the airport.

Super view of "Little Harbor" near Avalon Bay

Interesting little airport at mile 10.2 with a restaurant and water. Didn't linger long as I wanted to get back early enough before boarding the 2:00 PM Ferry back. Off and on gravel rollers on the way back which turn into a rough hard surface as the downhill grade increases. Couldn't wait to get to the junction where there is only one way to go (one-way... the way I came up earlier). This narrow road was smooth and I stopped for a few zip-line action shots. Then followed a cart down the steep scenic hill as the 2 lovers came within inches of going over the edge (no guardrails here). 

With a few minutes to spare, I sat by the kiddie park and watched the excited tourists pass. Had a
short wait in line before boarding the return "Catalina Express". Same boat as earlier, different crew. Much quieter and smoother ride back to Dana Point, where we arrived at 3:10 PM. After washing up & filling bottles, I was off for the long haul back to San Marcos.

Managed a short stop in San Clemente for some calories, as I was a little "off kilter". I figured it was the fresh salt air and the ferry vibration? After Oceanside, the route goes south and then inland back to San Marcos. Didn't want the route more redundant than it already was. Arrived home with lights on the last few miles. Good day and managed lots of video and still shots.

Route Video

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Rando Blast OFF: O'side to San Clemente On I-5

Rando Route #2084: Ursa Minor, done in reverse

Last week, Robert Leone posted up on the SDrando board about the Pendleton Bike Path being closed on Monday, July 10th. Mmmmm. Never been on I-5 north of Las Pulgas, so this was a lock for a rando route up north. Ursa Minor look good. Reverse to catch the lighter traffic going north from Las Pulgas. Perfect.

Checked the local temp at 0230 and it was 65.5F in San Marcos. Light cloud cover overnight kept the blistering day heat in. Super! I was off early for a 7-Eleven start receipt and no traffic. Wore a sleeveless underlayer, new rando jersey topped off with a lite Camelbak packed with some goodies.

Just after 0500 I was on I-5 rolling northward to light traffic (mostly big rigs). Lane was moderately clean with the exception of a few tire strands which I ran over! Upped my Cygolite to HIGH as it started to get light in the east. Nice traffic push to the NB Rest Stop. Did notice that it was packed with cars. So many, in fact, that they were parked on the north on-ramp, making a dicey curve northward. Didn't see that many people wandering about, so they must have been sleeping it off?

Decided to swing by the Las Pulgas parking lot and see if it was posted: "Closed To Cyclists". No signs there and the gate was open. Pondered riding thru, but just couldn't miss the chance for a I-5 run. Steep on-ramp, followed by a gentle grade as I rode northward near increasing traffic. The bike lane was spotless.. not even a tiny pebble or paper lying around. Much further than I had anticipated approaching the truck scales. OH, Oh. No problem, as there are signs directing bikse around the traffic and scale area. NICE! Leaving the scale area, I stopped and check over a frame pump lying roadside. Bummer. Took a car hit and was flattened out a bit. Left it there for the next cyclists and clicked in a higher gear. Slight downhill approaching Basilone Road. I was maxed out of gears anyway. Bit of a traffic snarl before the loop-e-doo to the Trestles Bike Path. A whole lot of surfers on bikes today.

Dude "Hey man, I want to catch a wave" CHP: "Strip Search"!

Rolling thru downtown San Clemente, I check my Garmin clock and noted 1 hr. 05 minutes had lapsed since I left Oceanside. That's quick for me, especially with several stops. No traffic riding as the sun was peeking thru by now along Dohney Beach. San Juan River Trail had a few joggers and lite bike traffic by now. Quick turn-around in San Juan Cap as I couldn't wait to check out the SB I-5 speed. Ice stop at Carl's Jr and I was off on cruise control!

CHP greeted me as I crawled onto I-5 SB. Hope he realized the Pendleton BP was closed today. Gave me a quick glance, noticed my dual rear lights, patriotic jersey and blinking headlight. OR maybe he had other important things on his mind?

Gentle uphill grade to the SB Truck Scales. Not busy here and I followed the nice quiet exit road thru the trees, near the tracks and into a round-about. Not about to return, I did a mini gravel run and entered I-5 SB again. I was soon flying along to the bonus exit at the Overlook. There you do a weird total 360 degree swing around before you're back on I-5 again. Several cars were parked enjoying the view OR was this the rumored active pick-up-spot for same sex lovers?

Total blast off down to Las Pulgas Exit. Stopped for a short water break at the SB Rest Stop. Back on I-5 again, I soon stopped and picked up a roll of blue painters tape. Pickings were slim today, unlike last weeks LG Cell Phone & several new bungee cords. Slight side wind and the trip into Oceanside was just at an hour. Harbor Dr. off-ramp still has the field of broken glass to avoid.

I wasn't feeling super along the coast but swung by and checked out Dan Phillips at his Bussey Auto shop. Refilled my bottle, said "hi" to busy Dan and worked my way down to Leucadia Donuts for a break under the outside umbrella shade. Hung around a bit, sucking on water laced with Hammer Fizz Tabs! Made Nytro for a water refill as they opened and chatted with Tim about today's ride up I-5. After a GU gel and water, I was off down the coast before turning inland and rising morning temps.

Del Dios was its usual Garmin 100F reading, but the slight headwind breeze made the final ride into San Marcos bearable. Chatted with 7-Eleven owner Najib Azzam in air-con comfort. Need to get him on some rides soon. Slogged home with a aching left foot. Two Advil and ice took care of that. That ankle always gave me trouble ever since it was shattered years ago. Go figure?

- randorides.

4th Of July Gravel Ride

Route is similar to 11-City Loop

I had the SCOTT MTB modified for mixed surface riding with the carbon fork and quicker tires. John was wanting to do a local ride on his Charge Cooker MTB. Standard tires wouldn't seat up tubeless, so he would have to order different tubeless ready tires for a later ride. I thought John had lots going on, so I re-scheduled the buddy-ride for another day. I'd make this a recon ride to check out some new dirt stuff.

Penasquitos Cyn: A few bikes & lots of hikers

I had plotted out a "gravel" route that would mimic the 11-City Loop Permanent. Well, sort of anyway. With limited trails around here and rando route rules, it's a real tough job to create a ride-able route within the rando time frame. Buggered out early and picked up a few gravel trails on the way to Encinitas and cool temps. Nailed the trail off Garden View Road.. goes over to Quail Gardens. That one will work.

Gobs of cyclists cycling along the coast today. Made a donut stop celebration as I sat in the shade along Coast Hwy. and watched the riders pass. Made good time on the roads and mixed it up with the roadies. Schwalbe G-ONE tires rolled fast, even at 2.80" width!

Temps reached Garmin hi of 103F

Penasquitos Canyon started out quiet, then became packed with hikers as I neared the Ranch House/Black Mtn. Road. Nice chat with the Ranger there. Bike Path to a fav. stop at Del Sur Circle K. Quiet there too.

Added a few new trails along San Dieguito Road. Felt great as the temps rose and so did the climbing around Del Dios Hwy. and a few back roads before joining the Escondido Creek Trail. Old guy was at the guard shack. I should have asked him for water as I was running out and had solid climbing ahead up toward Ridgeline Trailhead.

Shade break after dirt climbing

Empty... trailhead and Lakeview trail. Temps were around 100F for the last few hours of dusty climbing, but I was feeling good with some salty Shot Bloks. Nice ride down to San Marcos where a large 4th Of July picnic was displayed at Discovery Lake Park.

Picked up some ice-cream bars for the wife and made it home, dirty, dry and feeling quite good!

Full Route Video




- randorides