Ride Summary:

Terrain: Hilly / Busy and country roads / 1,750 ft Climbing
Distance: 31 Miles
Speed: 14-16 mph on flats / definitely slower on hills (5-7 mph)
Rider Level: Strong Beginner Minimum
Sweep: NO. We'll set up REGroup Points.

It has been awhile since I've done this route.

If you feel that some of the HW intermediate rides are too hard, too hilly and too fast, then this ride is for you. Jeff Sanford introduced me to this ride and it has been a staple for HW. This ride is a step up from the hills at Beals Pt. However, you must be a strong beginner or budding intermediate to be able to do this route. You should be comfortable going up and or have been to Beals at least 4/5 times.

This is truly a slow poke's edition. If you don't have strong climbing legs yet, then this is a good place to start. The route is also a good introduction to some roads outside of the ARBT.

We'll meet at Starbucks at 9 and roll at 9:15 SHARP.

There are 3 major climbs to challenge you. Sierra College, Newcastle & Indian Hill. There are small rolling hills but some of them are in the 4 - 8% grades. The route offers 17 miles of rolling hills then the rest is downhill - well, almost all downhill at Auburn-Folsom Rd. We'll take our break at the Flower Farm Nursery & coffee shop on Horseshoe Bar/Aub-Folsom Rd. Again, another favorite. If the violinist and guitars trio are at Flower Farm, someone better drag me out of there to ride to Indian Hill after the break .

Route Updated 10/28/09

Route Cue Sheets - Updated 10/28/09

Intermediate and advanced riders are welcome to join us. However, if you want a hammerfest, this is not the ride for you. You are also welcome to ride ahead but please, grab a cue sheet before you do as you will be on your own.

Please remember to bring plenty of food and water, and even some sunscreen. Bundle up appropriately. As always your helmet is required.

If you have any questions as to whether this ride is for you please feel free to ask!

Coffee break at Starbucks afterwards - optional.

I will cancel early in the morning should rain become a factor - only a big downpour will cancel this ride.