L EADING THE PARTICIPATION OF MOUNTAIN CYCLISTS IN THE TRAIL COMMUNITY M AY—J UNE 2004 Bike to Work Week

By Eric Lafferty May 17-21, 2004 is the 10th Annual California Bike to Work Week. ROMP members and all other bikers are encouraged to participate by using their bikes for transportation to and from work. In the Bay Area the week culminates with Bike to Work Day on Thursday, May 20th. If you can commute only one day during the week, this is the day. Volunteers from various bicycling organizations support the event with SAG stations located throughout the area. Bike maps, food, drinks and encouragement are all distributed to bike commuters at the stations. Many Bay Area cities have made commuting easier through the use of bicycle lanes, and multi- use paths. Commuting by bike reduces pollution, reduces traffic, is healthy, and fun. Take the time to plan your route ahead of time, and prepare for the commute. For example, I keep an extra pair of shoes and toi- Riding defensively and wearing reflective materials are the keys to letries in my desk at work so that I don’t have to carry these successful items back and forth when I commute. California Bike to Work Week is a project of the California by promoting the bicycle as an everyday means of transporta- Bicycle Coalition – a non-profit organization that advocates tion and recreation. Additional info can be found on the web increased bicycle use, access, safety, and education, at: www.californiabikecommute.com. Take the time to ride to work. It’s more fun than you’ll have when you arrive there!

R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 1 The Path by Paul Nam without ever reckoning the challenging constructive pursuits reduced as effort of riding itself. commutes increase. The Globe and This article describes overlapping reports, "Every 10 minutes of access issues between commuting Although it’s possible to imagine more commuting time cuts all forms of civic cyclists, recreational mountain bikers, people commuting by bike due to the engagement by 10%.” [Could the and open space. I encourage people to down-turned economy, rising fuel automobile be eroding democracy?] ride more and drive less. costs, increased traffic congestion, the need for regular exercise and a chance "There are 230 million cars and trucks During my rides to and from work to have media-free headspace, it’s in the U.S. and only 193 million over the years I have on occasion equally conceivable that unsafe (or the licensed drivers." The automobile smugly remarked to myself, "At least I drives our economy and don't have-to-ride. lifestyle. Approximately I have a car and could 50% of the population drive if I want." lives within five miles of Perhaps equally smug, their work place. More I felt that in contrast to of us could ride. the automotive herd, I was doing the right Beginning in the 1970’s thing for our planet, resulting from stag- getting a great work- gering economic and out, saving time, and population growth, an saving money. Until open space movement recently, such were my began. Greenbelts to thoughts. contain suburban sprawl, and protect When I see an adult view-sheds and habitat who rides a bike were established. In the because they can't Bay Area, the Mid- afford a car, or lost peninsula Open Space their driving privileges; District was established who doesn't have a in 1972. properly fitting or functioning bike, riding During this same time skills, or fitness; who the country saw a apparently has no extra “bicycle boom” and money for a helmet, for adults nor have an idea that became more popular. he/she might need one, The Silicon Valley I see a person who Bicycle Coalition was rides because they ROMP President, Paul Nam, wife Chris Voci, and Sport (SUB), Betty formed, and designated have-to-ride. Impulsively I assume bicycle friendly cities began integrating perception of unsafe) may that as soon as that person can, they bicycle access on streets and bike paths. discourage commuters. will buy a car and drive instead. The emergence of recreational The Toronto Star reports, "a think tank Some have-to-ride cyclists might coincided with these on commuter patterns recently become avid cyclists given a positive movement. The modern mountain bike surveyed people in five major U.S. experience, but the chances are just as emerged as bicyclists and cities and discovered that two-thirds of likely that they will give up cycling conservationists turned their them would prefer not to drive to altogether. The urban and suburban attention toward the hills. work. Driving was seen as time streets a cyclist shares with auto- subtracted from more satisfying and According to bicycle advocate and mobiles may be perilous enough to constructive pursuits." Civic participa- Marin County resident Joe Breeze the stop people from voluntarily riding a tion is one of the first satisfying and mountain bike was developed in bicycle for errands and commuting, Cupertino. "For many Marinites, the

R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 2 mountain's height and the limitations such "bike-paths" leave much to be Other Cycling Organizations of one gear left a roving eye for some- desired (too slow, not challenging Access 4 Bikes www.access4bikes.com thing better. That something better enough). However, such trails do PO Box 526, Pt. Reyes Station, CA 94956 showed up in Marin December 1, 1974, enhance the community by providing Bay Area Velo Girls 650-347-9752 www.velogirls.com at the West Coast Open cyclocross race. an alternative to the scene, and Bicycle Trails Council of Marin (BTCM) Three racers from Cupertino (Santa by creating an effective linear park PO Box 494, Fairfax CA 94978 Clara County, 75 miles south) arrived corridor for nature and human 415-456-7512 www.btcmarin.org at the line with old balloon-tire bikes contemplation. Bicycle Trails Council of the East Bay (BTCEB) PO Box 9583, Berkeley CA 94709 outfitted with thumbshift operated Today, our open space agencies are 415-528-BIKE www.btceastbay.org , and drum brakes operated reaching maturity. The watershed- Folsom Auburn Trail Riders Action Coalition by motorcycle brake levers. Among 916-663-4626 www.fatrac.org tracing trails which they maintain will Marin people to see these innovative International Mt. Biking Association (IMBA) eventually extend to connect to their PO Box 7578, Boulder CO 80306 bikes that day were Gary Fisher, containing ridges and the regions 303-545-9011 www.imba.com Charlie Kelly, Otis and I. For Charlie beyond. A bold example of such a trail Monterey Mt. Bike Association (MoMBA) and Otis, there is no doubt that these PO Box 51928, Pacific Grove CA 93590 concept is the Mokelumne Coast to were the first geared bikes 408-372-2134 Crest Trail (MCCT). "The [MCCT] will Mountain Bikers of Santa Cruz (MBoSC) they had ever seen. Russ Mahon of the be a scenic, 300-mile non-motorized, [email protected] www.mbosc.org Cupertino group had first grafted multi-user trail corridor extending Sonoma County Trails Council (SCTC) derailleurs and thumbshifters onto a www.sonomatrails.org/sctc/ from the Pacific Ocean near San ballooner in 1973. The Cupertino San Jose Inner City Outings (San Jose ICO) Francisco Bay to the crest of the Sierra www.sierraclub.org/ico/sanjose/ group, which never had more than 10 Nevada Mountains. Users, including Silicon Valley Bicycle Coalition riders, fizzled out shortly after the 1974 hikers, bikers and equestrians, will www.svbcbikes.org/ race-but not before pollinating Western Wheelers Bicycle Club experience diverse outdoor settings as Marin." [from Mountain Biking: The www.westernwheelers.org they traverse the width of the state, Women’s Mt. Biking and Tea Soc. (WoMBATS) History as Witnessed by Joe Breeze, including the urban greenbelt along the www.wombats.org www.breezerbikes.com] San Francisco Bay, the protected open In the midst of the mountain biking space and parkland of the East Bay, the road ride. The corpses of dead animals and open space movements the utility rural landscape of the San Joaquin are a constant reminder of the perils of bicycle movement carried on. Then as River Delta and Mother Lode Country, the road. now, bikes as personal transportation and the forested slopes along the Watershed trails provide safer were a good alternative to the Mokelumne River Canyon and High auto-free alternatives for cyclists. The automobile. It didn't take long for the Sierra. Martinez Shoreline Regional management of such trails encourages mountain bike to became the preferred Park in western Contra Costa County riparian habitat restoration, and the commuter bike. A wide gear range, fat and the Pacific Crest Trail at Ebbetts stewardship of native plant associa- tires, powerful brakes, and an agile Pass in the High Sierra form the tions. When combined with sufficient riding position were as fun and western and eastern anchor space, such trails can help ensure some effective on city streets as on trails. points." [from www.mc2ct.org] measure of biodiversity for posterity by It is from the synergies of the bicycle The advocacy for these regional trail preserving habitat and allowing the advocacy and conservation movements connections is something that ROMP movement of wildlife between regions. that preeminent regional corridors such must work on. Such projects can lead Sharing the road, sharing the trails, and as the Los Gatos Creek Trail, Adobe to a greater synergy between agencies sharing the planet – all of these are Creek Trail, Coyote Creek Trail and the and trail users, and fulfill greater steps we must take towards making Stevens Creek Trail have grown. It can conservation and recreational goals. peace. These are amazingly simple be argued that as bike commuting There are many potential multi-use ideas with immediate practical routes, or as recreational cycling routes trails that could link the valley to the applications. As President of ROMP coast. These need to be established not these regional trail concepts are what Mountain Cyclist just for recreational access, but also as motivate me to pursue everything from The Mountain Cyclist is the monthly newsletter of wildlife corridors. trail work to the race team. Not only the Responsible Organized Mountain Pedalers. do we need appropriate trails to ride Send general newsletter material directly to the Any road rider or bike commuter can on, we need trails to get reach them editor (not to the club PO box): tell you that our highways are Eric Lafferty / Josh Moore graveyards for animals, plants and without a car. We need to connect with [email protected] people. The memorials of fallen open space and the beauty of nature, Send ride listings to the club ride coordinator (not motorists and cyclists punctuate any from the past to the present and well to the club PO box): into the future. Julie Brown (650) 814 8271 [email protected] R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 3 Bodies Fly Through the Air! Land Manager Directory Acterra (Arastradero Preserve) 3921 E. Bay- shore Blvd., Palo Alto, CA 94303, 650-962-9876, by Julie Brown fax 650-962-8234; www.arastradero.org, www.acterra.org [email protected] Maybe it was the beautiful weather, or possibly just the great vibe being emitted by everyone at the Sea Otter Classic that made for an exciting event. Whatever it was, California Recreational Trails Committee Ken McKowen, Trails Coordinator, PO Box 942896, volunteering on Saturday for ROMP was a great experience. Sacramento 94296-0001, 916-653-6501

I had volunteered last Castle Rock State Park Bob Culbertson, 408- year, and it was such a 429-2869; Dave Keck, 916-322-2997 great experience City of Palo Alto (Arastradero) Recreation (despite the torrential Open Space and Sciences Division, rain all day) that I could 650-329-2423 notwait to come back to East Bay Regional Park District 11500 Skyline do it again. Last year I Blvd., Oakland 94619, 415-531-9300 marshaled the road race, Henry W. Coe State Park 9000 East Dunne so this year I wanted to Ave, Morgan Hill 95037. 408-779-2728 Gavilan Sector Supervising Ranger Mike Ferry help out at a different [email protected] 831-623-1659 ; Coe Senior venue. Boy did I pick it! Ranger Barry Breckling [email protected]; www.coepark.parks.ca.gov The event organizers sent me to the Dual Slalom course. The object of this race is simple: two crazy kids Monterey District California State Parks, Gavilan Sector; Henry W. Coe State Park. (or adults who think they're still kids) hurl themselves downhill through banked curves and over nasty jumps trying not to crash or go off course in the shortest P.O. Box 787; 19 Franklin Street; San Juan Bautista, CA 95045. 831-623-1659. Monterey amount of time possible. This is NOT a sport for sissies. District Superintendent C.L. Price

It was fun watching the pros, semi-pros and experts take their warm -up laps. They Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District took it nice and easy, determining the best lines in their mind's eye, deciding how 330 Distel Circle, Los Altos 94022; 650-691-1200; to take each turn and jump. By the time the warm-up was over, they were almost [email protected], www.openspace.org at full speed, hitting the banked curves (or not) with great speed – sometimes with Mt. Diablo State Park District Office 96 so much speed it would send them over the top of the banked turns and … well, it Mitchell Canyon Rd., Clayton 94517; 510-673-2891; Larry Ferri, Park Superintendent wasn't always pretty. It seems that sprained hands and wrists were the injury of the day, and several racers called it quits after too many gnarly crashes. The Santa Clara County Parks & Rec. Dept. 298 Garden Hill Dr., Los Gatos, 95030; Mark crashes were indeed harsh, with heavy downhill bikes flying through the air and Frederick, Capital Projects Mgr., 408-358-3741 riders following closely behind. I can see why x143; fax 408-358-3245; this is such a popular spectator sport. [email protected], claraweb.co.santa-clara.ca.us/parks/ The pro racers were Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors 70 approachable, not in- W. Hedding, San Jose, 95110; 408-299-2323 timidating, and made Santa Cruz District 600 Ocean St., Santa Cruz what they do look so 95060; 408-429-2850; David Vincent, easy and smooth. One District Superintendent of the more talented The Trail Center 3921 E. Bayshore Road, Palo riders wore a three- Alto 94303; 650-968-7065, www.trailcenter.org piece suit, complete with belt and tie! He also had the skills to get away with it and ROMP Monthly Meetings had an excellent run -- Monthly meetings are where the vast majority white dress shirt of ROMP business is conducted, including flapping in the wind. policy development issues, budgets, and cyclist education. They occur at 7 PM on the fourth So, don't take my word for it … come out next year and volunteer. Rain or shine, it Monday of each month (except December) at will be an experience you won't forget. Being a part of the action, hanging out with the Round Table Pizza, Sunnyvale Town and the competitors, and making sure their experience is the best it can be, Country, 94086 (408) 736-2242 is a rewarding way to spend a day at the Otter

R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 4 Race Team Update

by Max Zinsman Josh Moore, Eric Lafferty, Craig Rosa, Rich Andrews, Frank Lux, Dave Tripier ROMP’s Race Team, currently in its and myself have participated in races first season, boasts seven participating in the CCCX (www.cccx.org) mountain members and several others that have bike race series at Fort Ord, and at the expressed interest and plan to race. Sea Otter Classic. Eric leads the team The races in participation with four races to date. have been Next up for the race team is the exciting and final race at CCCX series on May 2 . enjoyable.

Max Zinsman

Eric Rumpf

Frank Lux

Rich Andrews

Inter-

ested in a Eric Lafferty 24-Hour Race, or the Billy Cross 8-hour event in Sonoma? Racers have expressed interest in both. Contact me at [email protected] if you are interested in participating on the team. Josh Moore Dave Tripier Keep on riding and join the Race Team for the enjoyment, excitement, Craig Rosa camaraderie, and ROMP

Photos courtesy of brightroom.com representation! R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 5 ROMP Membership Update Renewals Ride Listings, May & June Lloyd Chambers Aaron & Tara DelloIacono Thies Ross Finlayson Weekly Rides Joel Gartland Patrick Goebel Mondays 6pm MTB 101 John R. Greswold Note: No ride on the fourth Monday of each month. John R. Grundy A/EASY/10/1000 Prerequisite = ROMP Beginner's Clinic or Equivalent. Meet in the Fremont Older Lynn Hoerle Prospect Road parking lot at 6:00 PM, ready to ride Tom Kraus at 6:15. This ride is open to novices of all ages. We Jason Buberel Climbs out of the Big Bowl at will practice our climbing, descending and corner- Michael & Jain Light Arastradero 2nd Saterday Ride Peter & Kimberly Luptovic ing techniques. The preserve entrance is on Prospect Road in Cupertino. Exit Highway 85 at DeAnza Bob & Debby Malheiro Blvd. (From northbound 85 turn left on DeAnza Kitty & Todd Norwood Blvd. and from southbound 85 turn right on Land Manager Meetings Susann Novalis DeAnza Blvd.) Travel on DeAnza (toward the mountains) about 0.5 miles. Turn right on Prospect Robert T. Ouye Jr. Midpeninsula Regional Open Space District (MROSD) oversees many open space Road. At the first stop sign, turn left across the rail- Shannon Patterson preserves throughout San Mateo and Santa road tracks to remain on Prospect. Follow Prospect Natasha Perry & Aaron Hunter Clara counties. Board of director's meetings for 1.3 miles, turning left after the Saratoga Country Shane & Desiree Reed are open to the public on the second and Club, until you reach the preserve parking lot. Park- ing for approximately 15 cars is available here. Con- John L. Richards fourth Wednesdays of each month at 7:30 PM in the district offices at 330 Distel Circle (off El tact Rich Andrews (408) 738-1384 ran- Alexander Rouch & Karen Cosentino Camino Real north of Rengstorff), Los Altos. [email protected] Bill Schmelzer The MROSD also holds Trail Policy Wednesdays, 6pm Fremont Older rides Steve Sloan Committee meetings which develop and C/INT/10/1700' We're back for another summer of Phil Strenfel & Ligaya Yrastorza implement trail use policy. Fremont Older After Work rides. Meet Glenn & Jimmy Wang Los Gatos Trails Committee meets on the Linda in the main Stevens Creek Co. Park pkg lot off Stevens Canyon Rd. It's about 1 mile S. of Stevens Brian Warkentine second Thursday of each month from 6 to 7 PM at 41 Miles Avenue, Los Gatos. Creek Blvd., and about 2 miles S. of I280 (exit Foot- Glenn & Linda Wegner hill Blvd). There is a parking fee. Optional food after Paul Wendt Santa Clara County Group of the Bay Area ride. Call 408-257-8284 if you need more info. Ridge Trail Committee (BARTC) meets on Gregory Young & Anjali Tate the third Wednesday of each month from 7:00 Friday Night Ride 7pm, Hunting Hollow, Henry New Members PM to 9:00 PM at Greenbelt Alliance, 1922 The Coe State Park, Gilroy Xavier Bouyssounouse Alameda, Santa Clara (may change – call This ride will be at a Intermediate pace with re- groups at hill tops. The rides last about 4 hours and Jason Clymer before attending). Call Judy Etheridge at 408- 248-3900. include some tough climbing. have enoughts lights Richard Holtermann for 4 hours, a small backup light is advised. Contact Ben & Amy Lagueux & Family San Mateo County Group of the BARTC Chuck Schroyer 408 779-6822 nightrid- meets on the first Wednesday of each month [email protected] Butch Meyner from 9:30 AM to 12 noon at Coyote Point Sinead O'Sullivan & Mark Reder Museum (odd months) and other locations Al Painter Jr (even months). Call Bill Smith at 650-873-0415 Monthly Rides for meeting locations and other information. Katya Preston First Sunday Social Ride at Saratoga Gap Charles Schroyer B/EASY/11/1500 Meet at 10am at Grizzly Flat on Hank Stokbroekx Skyline Blvd (inbetween Junction 9 and Page Mill Road). This is a social ride so there are plenty of Erwin Vergeest breaks, and we wait for everyone. Bring a helmet, Robert Villegas water and some power bars. After the ride we will Greg Wilson go for lunch in Saratoga. Contact Information: Dave, 408-255-3464. [email protected]

Arastradero Second Saturday Social Interested in leading a ride? B/EASY/7/900 This friendly, introductory ride cov- Contact Julie Brown, (650) 814 8271 ers most major trails in the preserve, including some moderate hills, jumps, tight switchbacks and single or [email protected] by the tenth of the track. More skilled riders are encouraged to join us, preceding month.for newsletter socialize and provide support. Depending on skill listing. See www.romp.org for help level and time, we may go up dirt Alpine rd. after. Take Oregon Expressway / Page Mill Rd south past on leading a ride or to submit your hwy 280. Turn right on Arastradero, and right into ride online. The Jumps in Arastradero Park in Palo Alto the parking lot. Bring your helmet, a snack and

R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 6 Ride Listings, May & June General Ride Info water. Rain cancels. Contact Information: Josh ing on interest. The general plan is to head up Table Moore, (408) 420 7342. [email protected] Mountain or Monte Bello and explore the many Ratings code parks and trails off Skyline. Contact Information: 2nd Sunday Ride at Soquel Demo Forest Julie Brown 650 814 8271 [email protected] Pace / Technical difficulty / Mileage / C/INT/12-18/2500-3000 Meet at 10am at the entrance to SDF on Highland Way. From hwy 17, take the Last Sunday @ Wilder Ranch Approximate elevation gain Summit Rd exit and head SE. Go 5 1/2 miles to the B-C/INT/16/2000' -- Wilder Ranch is 2 miles past the Pace first stop sign, turn right and then bear left onto traffic light at Western Dr. on Hiway 1 (No). We will Highland Way. Go another 4 miles to the entrance. meet in the parking lot near the restrooms. Leave A – Slow; social or introductory ride. Riders need More info on SDF at www.mtb.live.com/rides/ the parking lot at 10:00. Lots of single track on your not be experienced or fit. SoquelDemo.html. Rides will vary covering single- favorite trails: Old Cabin, Rodrigo, Twin Oaks, Zane B – Moderate; recreational ride. track such as Ridge, Braille, Tractor, or Sawpit; Grey. Many regroups and "do-overs". Bring water C – Quick; fun and fitness ride with multiple Double loop option if you didn't have enough fun and a snack. Be prepared for the best views of Mon- hours of strong riding. the first time down. Contact Information: Rich An- terey Bay, great technical single track and faces you D – Sustained, fast; sweaty, intense training ride. drews, 408-738-1384. [email protected] may not have seen for a while! Lunch in Santa Cruz E – Hammerfest; riders should have their heads after for those interested.Contact Information: and knees examined! 3rd Tuesday Alpine Road Michael & Jain Light, (831) 662-9744. This year round ride has a couple options on where Pace generally reflects climbing speed; downhill [email protected] to meet up. 1st chance is the California ave Caltrain speed in most local areas is limited to 15 mph. A, station in Palo Alto @ 5:05 pm, meeting the B, and C rides are “no drop” rides with regroups Northbound#79 and the Southbound#66 trains @ Special Events as needed and rest breaks appropriate for 5:05 pm. From here we pedal through Stanford's weather, terrain and pace. D and E rides may "Professorville" on lightly travelled streets, over Old June 12 2004 Coe 10K Ride drop riders who cannot maintain the pace; the Page Mill rd, through Arastradero Preserve to The C-D/45/10K-12k Meet at Hunting Hollow in Henry drop policy may be stated in the ride listing, or Portola Valley ranch . The 2nd chance to meet up Coe State Park for a 7:30am start. The goal is to sim- ask the ride leader. occurs here @ 6:15, corner of Alpine rd. - ply climb at least 10k ft and descend as much of this Technical Difficulty Willowbrook in Portola Valley, please park on Wil- on single track as possible. The route will be pre- lowbrook. The ride then meanders up Alpine rd, determined and will be posted on EASY – Smooth singletrack or fire road; obstacles following El Corte De Madera creek , all the way to coecore.homestead.com (some previous years routes such as rocks and roots might exist but are not Page Mill rd x Skyline. This 3 hour ride requires the are chronicled there). This year will consist of 4 numerous. use of lights in the fall- winter months, loaner sets unique loops, the first one being the longest. The INTermediate – Steep, rutted fire road; are available, and rear flashing lights are highly last loop will have an option for a bonus of 2,000 ft singletrack with extended sections that can recommended. Please contact Jim beforehand for more of climbing, to make a 12k possible. The rea- include medium or large rocks and roots; stream any equipment questions. This complete ride is for son for the loops, is so that riders come back to crossings; exposure; long singletrack descents. intermediate level riders, however, many of our Hunting Hollow for rest, repairs, water and food, DIFFicult – Singletrack with very steep and/or participants show up and ride a portion of the dis- and an opportunity to quit. This is not a race. This is rocky sections; narrow trails; exposed sideslopes; tance just to stretch the legs after work. The main not a group ride. This is the Coe 10k. Contact: Paul downhill-side-sloped sections. EXTreme – concept of this ride is FUN, any hammeheads are Nam. [email protected] Singletrack with extended steep climbs or summarily ditched and left to prove something descents over rough terrain; many tight somewhere else. Contact Information: Jim Sullivan, June 19, 26; July 10, 17 ECDM Trailwork switchbacks and turns. Portions may require 650-493-8774. [email protected] Help re-route the Blue Blossom trail and build our portage. relationship with MROSD. Each day will be limited 3rd Sunday Ride at ECdM (Skeggs) to 20 volunteers based on a first come first serve Notes D/DIFF/15/3000 --Meet at Skeggs Point on Skyline basis. These dates are pending San Mateo County Blvd at 10am. This is a hard ride - any riders who permits. Contact Paul Nam at [email protected] For your first ROMP ride, try one of our monthly cannot stay with the group will be dropped. Contact or 408-446-3745 A, B, or C rides to get an idea of pace and Information: Dave Tripier, (408) 255-3464. technical difficulty. [email protected] HELMETS ARE REQUIRED FOR ALL ROMP 4th Saturday Beginner's Clinic May RIDES. Please be prepared for the ride (make A/Easy/6/800 On the 4th Saturday of each month, sure your bike is in working order, bring meet at 1pm at the Arastradero Preserve, at the appropriate tools, food, water, clothing, etc.). All main parking area on Arastradero Road. We'll cover riders will need to sign a waiver before every the basics of mountain biking while riding a combi- ride; minors will need a parent or guardian to nation of fireroads and singletrack. Be sure to bring sign their release. a helmet, water, and something to eat. Please RSVP In general, rain at the area of the ride within 48 to Jim at 650-493-8774 or [email protected]. RSVP is hours of the ride cancels. But, because different a must, as the meeting spot at the Preserve can vary trails can withstand the weather differently, we with class focus.Contact Information: Jim, June allow the ride leader to make the final decision. 650-493-8774. [email protected] If you are unsure about whether a particular ride Fourth Sunday Ride to Skyline will go on, contact the ride leader. C/35/4000 Meet at the corner of Stevens Canyon Rd and Mount Eden Rd at 10:00am for a nice long ride. The route will vary from month to month depend-

R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 7 Vintage: It’s the Next Big Thing

by: Eric Rumpf firstflightbikes.com has one of the were king, and high budget race teams finest known collections of vintage weren’t a second thought in a sport Remember when single speeders were mountain bikes, and sponsors a forum where the popularity was spreading a handful of hardcore riders lining up frequented by industry greats such as like wild fire. next to you at the local race? Did you Scot Nicol, Martin Stenger, Jacquie notice when full suspension became Think of these bikes in terms of the Phelan, and John Olsen. Even more common on trails than hardtails? muscle cars of the 1960’s. In the late mountain bike’s greatest resource, Do you remember mountain bikes 70’s and 80’s, with the exception of a mtbr.com, now hosts a “Vintage, Retro, before suspension? Every industry select few, most were nothing more Classic” discussion forum. The forum goes through trends. It’s the evolution than old cars having little value at all. is a gathering place for those who of a hobby or sport. In my humble However, as the kids from the muscle remember the sport in its infancy; a opinion, the next “big” thing for car era became adults, they wanted that place to reminisce, share stories, gather mountain biking requires us to look no great car that reminded them of their info, find parts, or show off the project further than our past. Vintage, retro, childhood – the car they always wanted bike that took the last two years to classic… you pick the name. What but could never afford. As the desire complete. started out as a small underground grew, so did the value of the cars. group of mountain bike collectors and So why should old, outdated mountain Although the current number of hoarders, is well on it’s way to bikes be the next big thing you ask? vintage bike collectors is small in num- bers, the value of these fine vintage bikes is quickly gaining speed. Try and find a vintage Jeff Lindsay made Mountain Goat or a mint Klein Attitude and see the amount of money they pull – possibly as much as when they were new, and maybe more. I think this shows promise for vintage mountain bike collectors given poor resale value of bikes in general. Single speeders now have their own class at bike races. Don’t be surprised to see the same thing for vintage bikes as the number of vintage enthusiasts grows on trails and at races. Vintage mountain bike gatherings and classic mountain bike shows are already happening. Eric Rumpf can often be seen riding the south bay trails on one of his retro rigs. Then again I might be wrong, and may have just spent way too much money becoming the next big thing. Think of it like this: vintage mountain on a bunch of junk. bikes represent a link to the past, the More and more web sites are being golden years of the sport when bikes created and dedicated to the golden IMBA Rules of the Trail were still hand-made by industry years of the mountain bike. Look no founders. There was no end to the ROMP, an IMBA-affiliated organization, further than ROMP’s very own Eric supports and practices the IMBA Rules of the creative ideas and innovations applied Lafferty and oldmountainbikes.com for Trail. Following these rules is not only key to to our two-wheeled passion. Before V- some fantastic history on Ritchey responsible riding, but essential to keep trails brakes there were U-brakes. Before open to cycling. mountain bikes, not to mention his fine tubeless disc wheels, there were collection of them as well. Andrew 1. Ride on open trails only. tension discs. Remember elevated 2. Leave no trace. Palmer of yetifan.com has a web site chain stays and purple anodized 3. Control your bicycle. dedicated to the cult favorite, Yeti 4. Always yield trail. components? Remember when mountain bikes. Jeff Archer of 5. Never spook animals. research and development departments 6. Plan ahead.

R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 8 San Francisco Peninsula Watershed Opens Land to Bikes

by Linda Wegner ROMP members and docents Berry Stevens, Rich and Toni Gooch, and Linda Wegner were in attendance at this historic On Saturday March 20th a docent-lead mountain bike ride event. It has taken many years of planning and debate to took place along the total 10-mile length of the Fifield-Kahill open this land to the public. Ridge Trail located above the Crystal Spring water reservoir near the intersection of CA-92 and I- 280. The land has been The Peninsula Watershed consists of 23,000 acres of forested closed to the public since the 1850's when the city of hills, coastal scrub, and grasslands that harbor over 165 San Francisco acquired the land as a water resource. species of birds, 800 species of plants and trees, 50 species of mammals, and 30 species of reptiles and amphibians. Romp Directory (Lots of snakes from Linda's experience so far). In PO Box 1723, Campbell, CA 95009-1723 408-380-2271 x2171 www.romp.org fact, the SFPUC (San Francisco Public Utilities President Paul Nam 408-446-3745 [email protected] Commission) Peninsula Watershed contains the Vice President Claire Nipress 408-255-3464 [email protected] highest concentration of rare, threatened, and Secretary You? [email protected] Treasurer Glenn Wegner 408-257-8284 [email protected] endangered species in the nine-county Bay Area and Beginner’s Clinic Leader Jim Sullivan 650-493-8774 [email protected] is a State Fish and Game Refuge. It is our privilege Membership Director Linda Wegner 408-257-8284 [email protected] that this land is open now to organized events! Membership Database David Volansky 415-334-7569 [email protected] Social Director Riya Devine [email protected] The views alone made this a wonderful ride. At the Land Management 10-mile mark you can see both the Pacific Ocean and Liaison Scott Schlacter [email protected] the Bay! This ride is also a decent workout with 3,500 Newsletter Layout Joshua Moore 408-420-7342 [email protected] ft of climbing in the 20-mile round trip. Riders are Newsletter Editor Eric Lafferty 408-733-4549 [email protected] instructed to stay on the fire road - this isn't too Newsletter Distribution Glen Wegner 408-257-8284 [email protected] Trail Education You? [email protected] difficult to do since the vegetation includes poison Trail Work Coordinator Berry Stevens 650-364-6785 [email protected] oak. Outhouses are installed every two miles. Ride Coordinator Julie Brown 650-814-8271 [email protected] To attend a ride, pre-register at sfwater.org/ and then Sponsor Coordinator John Morgan 408-224-6879 [email protected] National Mtn Bike Patrol Dave Wieland 408-371-2729 [email protected] click on the butterfly. Web Master Josh Moore [email protected]

R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 9 Adventures of Captain

R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 10 ROMP Membership Application, Renewal, Change of Address, and Donation Form Jersey & T-Shirt Sale! ROMP is a group of local, energetic mountain bikers who have discovered the Jerseys: $55 + $2 shipping need for an active representation for the mountain biking public, and for an The new, green, light blue, and yellow Jerseys organized, responsible attitude in the practices of off-road bicyclists. ROMP have arrived! These Voler Jerseys run a little needs YOUR support to help these changes come about. small so we suggest ordering one size larger than normal. Fill in all information whether you are a new or renewing member. Failure to T-shirts: $10 + $2 shipping include all information will delay your membership. Please print legibly. (Sorry, only size XL available) Name To order, fill out the following: (or pick them up at a club meeting or by Additional Family members arrangement at a club ride) Address

Size Color (olive or forest) Qty. Subtotal City State Zip

Phone email

Membership Type Individual ($20.00) Family ($25.00) Student ($10.00)

New Renewal Change of Address Donation $ ...... Order total :

Send Newletter Shipping $2 ea.: Total: Via US postal service Just send me an email when the news is online Name Club Directory — please list my Address

Name Address phone email Do not list me in the directory Email I‘d like to help with Phone

Education Trail work Fundraising Letter writing Send form with check payable to: Event coordination Newsletter articles Ride leadership Social events ROMP – Attention: Apparel Release of Liability Agreement PO Box 1723 Campbell CA 95009-1723 Upon acceptance of my membership in Responsible Organized Mountain Pedalers (ROMP), and while participating in any group event sanctioned, sponsored or organized by ROMP, I hereby, for myself, my heirs, assigns, successors and administrators, release, waive and discharge any and all claims for liability or damages resulting from death, personal injury or damage to any property which may occur, or which may later become accountable to me as a result, directly or indirectly of my participation in ROMP events (group rides). I fully understand this release is intended to unconditionally release, in advance, ROMP from any and all liability pursuant to or arising from my participation in club event, EVEN WHEN SUCH LIABILITY ARISES OUT OF NEGLIGENCE OR CARELESSNESS ON THE PART OF ROMP, its members, officers, and representatives.

Signature Date

Parent signature (if under 18) Date

Send this form with check payable to: ROMP – Attention: Membership, PO Box 1723, Campbell CA 95009-1723

Did you complete all information, sign your name, and enclose your check?

Thank you, and welcome to ROMP!

R OMP MOUNTAIN CYCLIST 11 Responsible Organized Mountain Pedalers PRESORTED STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PO Box 1723 PAID Campbell CA 95009-1723 ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED SAN JOSE CA PERMIT NO. 1371 Inside this issue: Bike to Work Week 1 The Mountain Bike Path 2 Bodies Fly 4 Race Update 5 Ride Listings 6-7 Vintage 8 SF Watershed Opens 9 Captain Kickstand 10

Saso Cycles. [email protected] or call at (408) 926-0183 Trail Head Cyclery 14450 Union Ave, San Jose 408-369-9666 trailheadonline.com Light&Motion, 300 Cannery Row, Mon- terey, 831.645-1538 bikelights.com Summit 111 East Main Street., Los Gatos 408/399- 9142; 1111 Burlingame Ave., Burlingame 650-343-8483; 1820 Broken Spoke 782 Laurel 4th Street, San Rafeal 415-456-4700 Street, San Carlos 650-594-9210 brokenspoke.com Slough’s Bike Shoppe 260 Race St., San Jose Calmar Cycles 2236 El Camino Real, Santa Clara 408-293-1616 408-249-6907 calmarcycles.com BikeMapDude: Palo Alto Bicycles 170 University Ave. Palo Alto 650-328-7411 bikemapdude.com/ paloaltobicycles.com Walt’s Cycle and Fitness. 116 Carroll Ave, The Bicycle Outfitter 963 Sunnyvale, CA 94086 408-736-2630 Fremont Avenue, Los Altos 650-948-8092 bicycleoutfitter.com Calabazas Cyclery 6140 Bollin- Cupertino Bike Shop 10493 S. De Anza Blvd, ger Rd., San Jose 408-366-2453 Cupertino 408-255-2217 cupertinobike.com calabazas.com Sunshine Bicy- Crossroads Bicycles 217 N Santa Cruz cles. 309 First St. Ave # C,Los Gatos,CA 408-354-0555 Gilroy 408-842-4889 1451 El Camino Real, Redwood City Zanotti Cycles 4396 Enterprise Place, Suite A; Fremont, 650-366-6620; 2310 Homestead (at CA 94538. 510-490-0460 [email protected] Foothill Plaza), Los Altos 408-735- Willow Glen Cycles. 1111 Willow St. 8735 chainreaction.com San Jose, 95125. 408-2932606 cyclecalifornia.com 650 Castro St Suite 108 Mountain View, CA 94041 (650) 224-4354 [email protected]