This is our annual Helloween and Zelda's ride. However, we are not having a 2 hr brunch at Zelda's, instead a quick 15min coffee and Pastry at Gayles instead. Please come join us for this somewhat challenging ride.
Please Register so that I can estimate how many are coming. Registration is free. (just a h/c for me).
Ride start: On top of Lexington Dam. 9:00AM, roll at 9:15AM (Led byVincent), please call or text me if you are late. 408-480-9933
https://ridewithgps.com/routes/37873519
From the parking area, we head South/West, around the reservoir, and start climbing right-a-way up following Old Santa Cruz highway (imagine that), our first climb ends when we reach skyline. Be careful crossing Skyline 35 onto the other side where we'll regroup. Then its relatively flat going South on Skyline for 2.5 miles to Soquel road. Following Soquel road down, it's a thrilling 11 miles of fast downhill, watch for cars coming up behind you, but normally we go at the speed of cars. We'll regroup at the bottom of the road, at the Soquel High School before we head into town in a few smaller groups. Our destination is Gayle's Bakery on the left side of Bay Ave. We'll take a break here and order some coffee and pastry items.
Before we head back, we'll head towards the beach, may be to touch some sand. Then loop back to Bay street and follow the road back up 1500 ft, 12 miles. This is a long but gentle climb. Once at the top, we head North on Skyline and look for Old SC highway on the right. it's all downhill from there back to the dam and your car. It's going to be 48 miles and 4200ft
SPEED: We'll separate into a few groups of different speed.
SKILL LEVEL: Be able to ride 50+ miles comfortably.
BE PREPARED: Bring cue sheet (above), water (2 bottles), gels, bars, spare tubes (with the correct stem length for carbon wheels), pump/CO2 cartridges, tools, sunblock lotion, and additional clothing for any weather changes.