The first cycling day had arrived! We met for breakfast in the motel, there were obviously some nerves amongst the group but everyone seemed ready to get on their bikes and begin the journey south. Today was the day to fill up on serve-yourself-waffles, we’d need the calories! A few last minute adjustments of the bikes and we headed out on our day’s ride to Santa Cruz.
The day started with a climb, the longest of the day but still a gradual gradient, to the top of the ridge that runs north to south. The team were climbing well but then midway up the climb disaster struck as Danny’s rear derailleur was forced into his rear wheel, shearing it off at the hanger. Despite desperate attempts to alter the length of the chain and effectively turn the bike into a single speed, the chain was completely twisted and unusable. Danny decided to walk the remainder of the hill then descend down to the coast to be picked up by the support vehicle.
The rest of the group got to the top of the hill for incredible views down to the sea and the incredible descent that followed! Occasional signs reminded us how steep it was with 19% topping them all. We firmly held onto our brakes throughout as we rode down to the Pacific Ocean where the support vehicle was waiting.
After a short but hot climb through eucalyptus trees, we exited the main road onto Devils Slide Trail, the old road that runs around the headland. This short section of road is now exclusively for bicycles and pedestrians after years of fighting from a few local conservationists. Motorised traffic is now directed through a tunnel giving cyclists a superb section of perfect tarmac free from motors!
The team relaxed on the benches, taking in the view and appreciating the time away from the cars. Our route then took the group back onto the highway…but not just any highway…
These were roads that were made for cycling, with stupendous views out to the right, great tarmac and a good wide shoulder in which to cycle. Every corner was a jaw-dropping vista, it was difficult keeping our eyes on the road!
We entered onto a cycle lane that took us around the coastline before cutting in to the town of Half Moon Bay. This sleepy town is home to a few things ideal a cyclist’s break. There’s a deli, coffee and cake shops, and an excellent bike shop, Bike Works. We relaxed in the courtyard area in the centre of town, drank coffee and bought a picnic for later in the day.
After the break we were back out on the road, along sweeping coastal tarmac, the sea lapping at the shore just metres away. Our lunch spot was pretty spectacular, a beach called Pescadero where some driftwood had been delightfully arranged in the shape of a picnic area.
After lunch Bill took a look at Hector’s rear derailleur which was starting to play up. Despite Bill’s best efforts, upon inspection it appeared that another trip to a bike shop was in order!
Our route after lunch took us south past further gorgeous beaches (you could say we were a little spoilt by this stage!), along various cycle lanes and onto the outskirts of Santa Cruz. This stretch of the route is not by any means necessary (a more direct route is possible along the highway), but it is arguably one of the finest roads to finish a day’s cycle on. Crashing surf pounded the rocks below as surfers toiled in the waves. Local residents took a stroll with their families down the sidewalk. Huge houses lined this stunning water’s edge as we rolled into the town centre.
We were soon checked into our motel and making our way to our restaurant for the evening. The team had done amazingly well, relieved that the first day wasn’t as bad as they’d hoped and looking forward to the next day’s ride.
© 2024