gmhTODAY Winter 2023 | Page 71

South Valley Bike Scene ... Let ' s Ride

South Valley Bike Scene ... Let ' s Ride

Forecast : Great Biking Events Ahead !

Take advantage of our South County weather and get our on your bike to these three great local events . by Jodi Hall jodi @ arriveesales . com

I n case you need any extra motivation to get out there on your bicycle , there are three major bike rides and festivals

planned every April and May , right here in South County – two in Morgan Hill , and another event just down the road on the Monterey Peninsula .
Sea Otter Classic ( Thursday to Sunday , April 20-23 , 2023 )
First up is the Sea Otter Classic . Every year in April , cyclists of all ages and cycling interests converge on Laguna Seca Raceway for four fun-filled days of racing , fun rides , shopping , camping , eating and all things bikes ! There is something for everyone in your family , including an entire section dedicated to kids , with “ Otter Egg ” hunts , bike races , kids ’ activities , giveaways and small riding loops for riding practice all day long . For older kids , there are bike demos and trick shows , contests and giveaways , autograph sessions with the pros and the chance to see them race up close , and new technologies to ogle . On top of that , the largest outdoor expo in the world offers opportunities to buy souvenirs , gear and clothing . There are a lot of options for food and drink , with entertainment all day and into the evening . All this happens around a packed schedule of rides and races for all abilities , whatever your preference : Downhill , cross-country , endurance mountain biking , road , gravel , e-bikes , and more !
Tierra Bella Bicycle Tour ( Saturday , April 22 , 2023 )
This event showcasing our region ’ s beautiful roads and wonderful cycling routes has called South County its home for 44 years . With four different routes , from flat to very hilly , this event includes options for all levels of road rider . The Almaden Cycle Touring Club volunteers have done a great job organizing this event and helping support the rides with rest stops . Bonus : You can make this a wholly car-free event by biking to and from the event .
100 miles . The first time this author participated , we even brought along our one-year-old in his trailer . The iCare Tour offers great rest stops with great food , a support and gear ( SAG ) wagon and a barbecue at the end .
Time to Train Dress Appropriately !
Now that you have an event on your calendar to help motivate you to get out there riding , don ’ t forget the appropriate winter riding wear . One word stands out above all else when planning your cycling attire for this time of year : Layering . It can be near freezing if you start your ride before the sun rises , and if you start later , you may need to add a layer as soon as the sun sets .
A few key rules will help you stay comfortable throughout your day : Base layers are always a good idea , wicking sweat away from you to regulate temperature in all conditions . Arm warmers and knee warmers are essential , especially in spring , fall , and winter . A wind shell outer layer will probably be your most useful piece of cycling apparel . When you ’ re heading out the door for an early morning ride , you may feel like you really need to bundle up . Avoid this common mistake . A wind-resistant shell will keep the wind off of you , retain body heat when it ’ s chilly , can be unzipped to vent in cool air as the day warms up , or stuffed into a jersey pocket in the full heat of the day . For very cold days it ’ s great to cover your face and head . Try a neck gaiter for keeping your face , neck and ears warm . A cycling cap also works great and can fit under your helmet nicely . But the real secret to staying warm ? Wool socks and shoe covers .
See you out there ! iCare Classic Bike Tour ( Saturday , May 13 , 2023 )
Another favorite ride held right here in South County is the iCare Classic , organized by the Almaden Super Lions Club . This very family-friendly ride offers a shorter route – 20 miles – for novice riders , but also distances of 50 , 62 and
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