Eroica California, April 11-12, Paso Robles

[SpokeValley]

I didn't see any mention in the threads, so apologies if this is a duplicate.

If you subscribe to the newsletter, you get first dibs on registration when it opens 2/16.

http://www.eroicacalifornia.com/

[Saint Vitus]

I received the email but the ride is on the same day as something else I signed up for a few months back. Too bad, I love the central coast- maybe next year.

[Dr Luxurious]

Not real stoked with the route options.
Going from memory here but the med length route is like 65 miles and the long route is like 125.
That's quite a jump in mileage.
65 is only about 3-4 hrs which isn't really worth the money and trouble of travel, hotel, etc but going up to 125 and it becomes an all day death march.

[Look585]

If any of the Paso / SLO locals have GPS/Strava routes for these roads, I'd love to see them. I can guess at most of it from the Eroica map, but actual data would be great...

Thanks!

[bikingshearer]

Not real stoked with the route options.
Going from memory here but the med length route is like 65 miles and the long route is like 125.
That's quite a jump in mileage.
65 is only about 3-4 hrs which isn't really worth the money and trouble of travel, hotel, etc but going up to 125 and it becomes an all day death march.

(The following is not intended to be thought-provoking, not snarky. If it sounds snarky, please know that is not what I have in mind. Honest, cross-my-heart-and-hope-to-die.)

I think you are missing a huge part of the point. The riding is a significant part of the equation here, no doubt. But at least as important - maybe more important - is the bon hommie, showing off your vintage-to-ancient machine, and ogling tons of cool bikes you will never see in one place anywhere else. I'm going to do the 35 mi version because I am large and slow and can never hope to do much serious climbing with a low gear of 46x24 - hell, I can barely do any serious climbing on a 30x29:o. But I am psyched to take part in the entire weekend of cool stuff and cool people.

So please come. I bet you will be very glad you did.

[krhea]

(The following is not intended to be thought-provoking, not snarky. If it sounds snarky, please know that is not what I have in mind. Honest, cross-my-heart-and-hope-to-die.)

I think you are missing a huge part of the point. The riding is a significant part of the equation here, no doubt. But at least as important - maybe more important - is the bon hommie, showing off your vintage-to-ancient machine, and ogling tons of cool bikes you will never see in one place anywhere else. I'm going to do the 35 mi version because I am large and slow and can never hope to do much serious climbing with a low gear of 46x24 - hell, I can barely do any serious climbing on a 30x29:o. But I am psyched to take part in the entire weekend of cool stuff and cool people.

So please come. I bet you will be very glad you did.

Thanks for this post!!! Obviously if you're not familiar with the "heritage" of this ride or rides like them you have no idea what they're about and you'd tend, like "Dr Lux", to lump it in with other centuries/metrics etc. This is not that kind of ride and to most folks the distances simply don't matter, it's the entire weekend experience that we're after. Dr Lux, we're bringing a crew all the way from Portland Oregon...just to ride 65 miles and we can't wait!

[Saint Vitus]

I think you are missing a huge part of the point. The riding is a significant part of the equation here, no doubt. But at least as important - maybe more important - is the bon hommie, showing off your vintage-to-ancient machine, and ogling tons of cool bikes you will never see in one place anywhere else.

So please come. I bet you will be very glad you did.

One other aspect is that of charity. The charity for this event is a hospice in SLO. My mother worked at SD Hospice for years and I hold the work that they do with high regard, so that for me would be another reason to join in the camaraderie of the weekend.

[Dr Luxurious]

Not snarky at all! I totally appreciate your point.

For me, though, I'm not really into the whole "gathering" thing; it's all about the ride. I'd love to check out all the vintage gear (and show off my KAS Vitus :) ) but I'd only enjoy that while in motion.
Plus the wife wouldn't be too happy if I disappeared all weekend.
And I hate hotels - sleeping in them and paying for them.
And if an overnight stay happens and there's drinking involved then there's a good chance of things happening that involve fire. I hate jail and fines more than hotels.

[numbskull]

I'd love to go but am not able because of work. I am, however, heading to Tuscany for the original L'Eroica this October. Building a bike and training for that event has been a load of fun.

I suspect the nostalgia part turns a lot of younger riders off. It immediately takes on a context of grey hair, big bellies, slow riders, collector one-up-manship, and glory day BS.
And no doubt there is plenty of that for those who seek it.

I am pretty sure, however, that the original organizers see the ride differently. They intend it as a challenge rather than a bike show: as a step back to share the experience of the riders who preceded us: as a means to connect with the continuity of our sport.

It is easy to get caught up in new, light, fast, and efficient but ultimately cycling is "all about the effort" (as the originator of L'Eroica put it). A hundred and twenty five miles on a vintage bike over sketchy roads is not necessarily a bad way to be reminded of that regardless of how young and strong you are.

[Steve in SLO]

Ironically it is in my own backyard and I have a nice California Masi Gran Criterium to ride, but I will be on vacation with my family that week.
Grrr.

[EPOJoe]

Where are you guys getting your information about this event? When I go to their main web page listed above, all I get is a page asking me to register for the newsletter. Looks to me like it'll be a blast, and I have the bike for it, but I'll have to muster up some pedals with toe clips (apparently required) and somehow find some shoes that will work with them. In the photos of these events, I've noticed some variation as far as how authentic the riders dress and I'm a little hesitant to do a long ride on questionable roads without a helmet. I've seen that some riders wear those old leather padded jobs, but I'm guessing I might as well go with just the cotton cycling cap for all the good the leather pads will do.

[choke]

Where are you guys getting your information about this event? When I go to their main web page listed above, all I get is a page asking me to register for the newsletter. Looks to me like it'll be a blast, and I have the bike for it, but I'll have to muster up some pedals with toe clips (apparently required) and somehow find some shoes that will work with them. In the photos of these events, I've noticed some variation as far as how authentic the riders dress and I'm a little hesitant to do a long ride on questionable roads without a helmet. I've seen that some riders wear those old leather padded jobs, but I'm guessing I might as well go with just the cotton cycling cap for all the good the leather pads will do.You can wear a modern helmet. The rules for the original are at - http://www.eroicagaiole.com/regulation

[numbskull]

here is a cheaper source for shoes (I know nothing of the quality) http://www.williamlennon.co.uk/footwear/arturo-wide-fitting-cycle-shoe.html

Dromarti and Vittoria also make vintage shoes (at about $300 and $150 respectively)

Dromarti sells cleats as does YellowJersey.org http://www.yellowjersey.org/tocleat.html

[bikingshearer]

. . . grey hair, big bellies, slow riders, . . .

You rang? :hello:

Where are you guys getting your information about this event? When I go to their main web page listed above, all I get is a page asking me to register for the newsletter.

There is a pretty extensive post about it in the Classic & Vintage section of Bike Forums. There is a fair amount of noise about the rules and why cantilever brakes aren't allowed and the like (complaining on the Internet? Color me shocked :rolleyes:.), but there is also a lot of enthusiasm, including some very helpful posts from the organizer of the event. According to the last one, registration opens February 16.

They also claim to have a Facebook page up now, although I have not checked it out.

[numbskull]

If you are really into it this site might be helpful ;)
http://www.ghisallowoodenrims.com/rims/tubular-rims/corsa-racing-tubular-rim.html

[fiamme red]

http://theradavist.com/2015/02/wine-olive-oil-dirt-glory-120-miles-leroica-california/#1

[EPOJoe]

http://theradavist.com/2015/02/wine-olive-oil-dirt-glory-120-miles-leroica-california/#1

Thanks for the link. Wow, the route is seventy-five percent dirt. I'm trying to imagine how long it would take to complete the 125 mile ride on some of the roads they have pictured...

[Dr Luxurious]

on those roads?

holy crap!!

that's freakin epic!

[GuyGadois]

I'll be riding this with a buddy. Got my 60's Bertin ready to roll (almost, installing the campy pedals, clips and Binda straps as I type).

I think I am only up for the 65 mile ride. A 65 mile ride on a bike from the 60's is equivalent to doing the RAAM.

GG

[GuyGadois]

Registration opened up this AM. Limited to 1000 people. I signed up for the 62 miler which is a chore on a 25lbs 60's bike with insane gearing, toe clips and brakes that slow, not stop.

http://www.eroicacalifornia.com/

Anyone else going? Anyone interested in doing the course in the weeks to come?

GG

[Echo]

Registration opened up this AM. Limited to 1000 people. I signed up for the 62 miler which is a chore on a 25lbs 60's bike with insane gearing, toe clips and brakes that slow, not stop.

http://www.eroicacalifornia.com/

Anyone else going? Anyone interested in doing the course in the weeks to come?

GG

Just signed up. Planning on riding my late 80s Rossin with tubbies and deltas... Does that sound completely nuts to anyone else?

[coelacant]

I'm in for the 120.
Guy, I was under the impression that some parts of the routes go through private land, vineyards etc.? or do you know differently being local?
Still deciding which bike to ride, a vintage bike or a 'vintage looking' bike.


Registration opened up this AM. Limited to 1000 people. I signed up for the 62 miler which is a chore on a 25lbs 60's bike with insane gearing, toe clips and brakes that slow, not stop.

http://www.eroicacalifornia.com/

Anyone else going? Anyone interested in doing the course in the weeks to come?

GG

[DrSpoke]

Thanks for the link. Wow, the route is seventy-five percent dirt. I'm trying to imagine how long it would take to complete the 125 mile ride on some of the roads they have pictured...

The L'Eroica link says that the 200k route has 36 mi of unpaved roads, the 100k route has 18 mi, and the 41mi route has 12 mi. So the long route is about 28% unpaved.

Not sure if I can make it but want to try - not a great weekend for CPAs to be taking off :)

[choke]

I'm registered. I'll likely be on a 1980ish Pogliaghi.

Just signed up. Planning on riding my late 80s Rossin with tubbies and deltas... Does that sound completely nuts to anyone else?Not in the least.

[DrSpoke]

If any of the Paso / SLO locals have GPS/Strava routes for these roads, I'd love to see them. I can guess at most of it from the Eroica map, but actual data would be great...

Thanks!



I've downloaded the .gpx file but can't figure out how to upload it.

[DrSpoke]

Maybe this:

http://ridewithgps.com/routes/7012059

[sg8357]

Just signed up. Planning on riding my late 80s Rossin with tubbies and deltas... Does that sound completely nuts to anyone else?

Yes, considering the course seems to be geared for French or British bikes of 1940s and 50s.

[bikingshearer]

I have registered and will be there on a 1961 Bianchi on tubulars and a 44x28 low gear, the lowest I can get with a 151mm bcd crankset and Record rear derailleur. Throw in my seriously Clydesdale bulk and utter lack of climbing prowess (I'm slow, but I make up for it by stopping a lot), and you should not be surprised that I'm doing the 40 mile version. I'm really looking forward to it. Hope to meet some of you there.

[Devotion]

I'll be doing the 123 mile route on my 1970 Marastoni. Can't wait!

[northbend]

I'm registered for the long route, planning to ride the Bruce Gordon.
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj140/northbend/P1060763_zps739e8f2b.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/northbend/media/P1060763_zps739e8f2b.jpg.html)

[weisan]

North pal, the BG is perfect. The dugast is nice, super nice in fact... Have you ever tried the Rock n Road, will it fit on this bike?

[GuyGadois]

I'm registered for the long route, planning to ride the Bruce Gordon.
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj140/northbend/P1060763_zps739e8f2b.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/northbend/media/P1060763_zps739e8f2b.jpg.html)

Thats a beaut! The tires work well on that bike.

[Pastashop]

I'm registered for the long route, planning to ride the Bruce Gordon.
http://i271.photobucket.com/albums/jj140/northbend/P1060763_zps739e8f2b.jpg (http://s271.photobucket.com/user/northbend/media/P1060763_zps739e8f2b.jpg.html)

Classy.

(shame that clipless pedals aren't allowed – those were around in 1987 and before, n'est ce pas?)

[Steve in SLO]

Modern clipless road pedals by Look: 1984
Clipless track by Cinelli: 1971ish:
http://www.classiclightweights.co.uk/components/cinelli-pedals-components.html

[brando]

Conflicts with another race/ride on the calendar. Also, sold my Ciocc Designer 84 a few months ago. Not the biggest fan of fondo-sized groups even though the idea is cool. Would be fun to see all that beautiful steel on the road.

[GuyGadois]

Modern clipless road pedals by Look: 1984
Clipless track by Cinelli: 1971ish:
http://www.classiclightweights.co.uk/components/cinelli-pedals-components.html

b) pedals should be with toe clips and straps or, for older bikes, as the original pedals; quick release, clip-less pedals are not allowed;

http://www.eroicacalifornia.com/regulation

[Duende]

I'm planning on going. Can't decide between the 40 or 60 mile run. 40 has close to 2000 or so feet of climbing, while the 60 has 5000 feet. Wish I had a map my ride view of the landscape.

My San Cristobal Ciocc is ready to roll, but my gearing is from the 80's too! With a 52/42 up front and a 13-21 in the rear. Hence my hesitation to do the 5000 feet of climbing.

Or I just bite the bullet and get a new wider gearing freewheel and chain.

Need shoes too. Got everything else including my old leather helmet!

[Leoner]

• I'm registered (0092). Trying to decide which bike to ride.
1. '85 MASI 3V - Super Record Build (Just sent out for paint today)
2. Della Santa built Team LeMond Pro - 1st Gen C Record (w/ cobalto brakes)
3. Medici #113 - Super Record Build

• Trying to use what I have so I need to pick between wider clinchers or narrower sew-ups. Thoughts?

• Need to dig through my stash to figure out gearing.

Excited to see everyone there. :banana:

[bikingshearer]

b) pedals should be with toe clips and straps or, for older bikes, as the original pedals; quick release, clip-less pedals are not allowed;

http://www.eroicacalifornia.com/regulation

THis agrees with what I saw somewhere or other - Cinelli M71 "death pedals" are a-okay for L'Eroica. For the brave and/or foolish only.

I'm in - registered for the event and with a motel reservation. I'll be on the 40 mile version, going veeeery slowly and walking up at least some of the hills, on this:

http://i165.photobucket.com/albums/u46/bikingshearer/Biancho%20Competizione/Bianchi.jpg (http://s165.photobucket.com/user/bikingshearer/media/Biancho%20Competizione/Bianchi.jpg.html)

[fiamme red]

Trying to use what I have so I need to pick between wider clinchers or narrower sew-ups. Thoughts?Wider clinchers, for sure. What would you do if you had two flats on tubulars?

Take a look at this thread (https://groups.google.com/forum/#!topic/sfrandon/74ycIZl3qR8):

I've ridden Cypress Mountain/Klau mine many, many times. I have never seen a private property sign and there is no locked gate. The final mile from Paso Robles to the pass is a bit steep (10-15%?) but not bad.

I have done it on 25's, but 32's would be much better. The downhill from the top of Cypress mountain to Santa Rosa Creek road is quite treacherous, and I would think that a lot of people will want to walk some of the downhill. I would also expect quite a few low speed crashes there.

[northbend]

North pal, the BG is perfect. The dugast is nice, super nice in fact... Have you ever tried the Rock n Road, will it fit on this bike?

Thanks Weisan and others. The BG is a great bike, I've owned it since 1981. There is no way I could fit Rock n Roads on this frame. Even with the 34's I have on it now, I will take out the dropout adjusters and slide the wheel all the way back to ensure good clearance around the chain stays. Right now it's pretty tight.
I am thinking 34mm is probably overkill for this route but it should make for a very comfortable ride..

[plattyjo]

I can't wait! It'll be a bit before I can do the Tuscan edition of L'Eroica (got PBP on the bucket list first) -- so I signed up for the 200k. Looking forward to admiring all the beautiful bikes that will be showing up!

[Duende]

Got my shoes!! Well hopefully.. fingers crossed. Bought them on craigslist (out of state too), so let's hope they show up. Heck, I figured it was worth the gamble.

Maybe I'm just missing something, but I just can't see buying expensive retro looking new shoes that don't even have cleats in them.

If they show up, I'm signing up!

Super stoked! Look forward to meeting all of you in person. :)

[Saxon]

If they show up, I'm signing up!



I'm kind of in the same situation. Don't have the gearing, pedals, shoes, wool pants (though my 1982 Nectar Lycra shorts should work, I think Lycra is a no no) etc... so if I can find some of it on the cheap, I'll be sign up. Hunting flea markets tomorrow!

[choke]

I'm kind of in the same situation. Don't have the gearing, pedals, shoes, wool pants (though my 1982 Nectar Lycra shorts should work, I think Lycra is a no no) etc... so if I can find some of it on the cheap, I'll be sign up. Hunting flea markets tomorrow!For the record, wool is not a requirement nor are period correct shoes....one only has to look at pics from L'Eroica (Italy) to see that. From the regs (http://www.eroicacalifornia.com/regulation) (bold added): Participants must be dressed in period cycling clothing, in particular they should wear wool jerseys and shorts. Reissued vintage-looking jerseys and shorts (permitted non wool materials) are also allowed as long as they look proper.

Consistently with the vintage spirit of the event, participants are invited to carefully select all accessories of their bicycles and clothing. In particular we invite participants to use leather cycling shoes, traditional cycling caps, aluminum water bottles, etc. A pair of lycra shorts from 1982 would certainly fit the spirt of the rules IMO. It's not so much about the material itself as it is about the right look.

[EPOJoe]

If I can assemble what I'll need in time, I'm in. I'm still a little confused about what to do about a helmet though. While they do allow modern helmets, a Styrofoam mushroom on my head will certainly clash with my vintage garb. I could always wear one of those padded leather nets, but they look pretty silly and I'm guessing that the protection they afford is dubious. Then again, I could just throw caution to the wind and go for total authenticity with just the cotton cycling cap. Hmm...

[bikingshearer]

^^^ The organizers are recommending, but not requiring, modern helmets. You can wear (or not wear) more or less what you want with the possible exception of those new inflatable helmets, but I, for one, plan to use the same headgear I always do - a modern helmet with a traditional cycling cap underneath.

[aosty]

Modern clipless road pedals by Look: 1984
Clipless track by Cinelli: 1971ish:
http://www.classiclightweights.co.uk/components/cinelli-pedals-components.html

I agree and add to the list... aero brake cable routing, non-box section rims, wheels with fewer than 32 spokes, and more.

I understand their shtick but some of the items in the mile long rule list are downright nit picky and yet incomplete; they leave out some obvious items such as non-tan wall tires, GPS units, TIG welded frames, indexed shifting, painted or color anodized parts.

IMO, a vintage bike with some nuevo parts would compromise the spirit of such an event much less than a "vintage looking" modern bike. My 1984 Specialized Expedition with friction shifting, aero brake levers, and clipless pedals would be banned but a brand new SOMA with 10-speed cassette, indexed downtube shifters and blackwall tires would be permitted. Seriously?

No, thanks.

:fight:

[Duende]

Anyone needs some Detto leather old school cleats?

(same model as shown in this link http://www.ebay.com/itm/VINTAGE-DETTO-PIETRO-LEATHER-ROAD-CYCLING-SHOES-SIZE-37-MADE-IN-ITALY-W-CLEATS-/271074133804?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item3f1d47072c)

Size 44. Very good condition Too small for me. If interested PM me.

Apologies if this is not appropriate to post in this section of the forum. However considering many of us are here are in the same boat here looking for vintage wear, I figured it would be a nice thing to do. Not trying to make a profit.

[bikingshearer]

I agree and add to the list... aero brake cable routing, non-box section rims, wheels with fewer than 32 spokes, and more.

I understand their shtick but some of the items in the mile long rule list are downright nit picky and yet incomplete; they leave out some obvious items such as non-tan wall tires, GPS units, TIG welded frames, indexed shifting, painted or color anodized parts.

IMO, a vintage bike with some nuevo parts would compromise the spirit of such an event much less than a "vintage looking" modern bike. My 1984 Specialized Expedition with friction shifting, aero brake levers, and clipless pedals would be banned but a brand new SOMA with 10-speed cassette, indexed downtube shifters and blackwall tires would be permitted. Seriously?

No, thanks.

:fight:

I think the indexing would DQ the bike, down tube or otherwise. But I get your point. Fortunately, my bike and the stuff hanging on it will qualify will qualify by plenty of years.

[classtimesailer]

Should be a well supported beautiful ride. I'm too cheap to do both L'Eroica and the BWR this year. But, next year, I'll have vintage wheels for my 82 Medici and will do the 120 miler. I think that I have seen an increase in L'Eroica bikes out on the roads around here. Old fat guys maybe brought down the old bikes and squirted them with WD-40. I think that's great.

[Echo]

I agree and add to the list... aero brake cable routing, non-box section rims, wheels with fewer than 32 spokes, and more.

I understand their shtick but some of the items in the mile long rule list are downright nit picky and yet incomplete; they leave out some obvious items such as non-tan wall tires, GPS units, TIG welded frames, indexed shifting, painted or color anodized parts.

IMO, a vintage bike with some nuevo parts would compromise the spirit of such an event much less than a "vintage looking" modern bike. My 1984 Specialized Expedition with friction shifting, aero brake levers, and clipless pedals would be banned but a brand new SOMA with 10-speed cassette, indexed downtube shifters and blackwall tires would be permitted. Seriously?

No, thanks.

:fight:

Totally agree with you on this. Im planning on most likely riding my 87 Rossin Prestige. I have it built up currently with Chorus and C Record parts. As Im sure most of you know, the brake levers of that era allowed for "aero" routing beneath the tape, or up and over the bars. Upon emailing them, they told me that while they won't disqualify me for riding it as is, I should seriously consider rerouting the cables to the "correct" position (over the bars)... Kind of a crap response if you ask me, no?

Because of all of this, I may end up borrowing a bike from a buddy. 23mm tubulars and delta's probably won't be so awesome on dirt...

[GuyGadois]

Totally agree with you on this. Im planning on most likely riding my 87 Rossin Prestige. I have it built up currently with Chorus and C Record parts. As Im sure most of you know, the brake levers of that era allowed for "aero" routing beneath the tape, or up and over the bars. Upon emailing them, they told me that while they won't disqualify me for riding it as is, I should seriously consider rerouting the cables to the "correct" position (over the bars)... Kind of a crap response if you ask me, no?

Because of all of this, I may end up borrowing a bike from a buddy. 23mm tubulars and delta's probably won't be so awesome on dirt...

Record levers from that era allow for either "aero" routing or external cabling. Do you have those? I don't mind the rules. I think it is fun to change the bike a bit to make it work. You can always just ride the bike you want and get a DQ. Heck a DQ would be good after beer conversation.

GG

[aosty]

I don't mind the rules. I think it is fun to change the bike a bit to make it work. You can always just ride the bike you want and get a DQ. Heck a DQ would be good after beer conversation.

GG

I already pay good money for DFLs and DNFs.... no need to pay for a DQ too.

Speaking of DFL, I did that gravel race in SLO this past weekend. :rolleyes:

@classtimesailer - I'll also be at BWR.

[Devotion]

For those of you doing the longest route:
What tire width do you plan on running?

[Steve in SLO]

I already pay good money for DFLs and DNFs.... no need to pay for a DQ too.

Speaking of DFL, I did that gravel race in SLO this past weekend. :rolleyes:

@classtimesailer - I'll also be at BWR.

Hey, what gravel race was in SLO this weekend? Edit: never mind, I just googled it. Menso is one fast rider.
I live here and did not hear of it.

[metalheart]

Any feedback/observations on the Festival, exhibitors, bike, or the ride?

[adampaiva]

c'mon someone post pics plzzz

[plattyjo]

Here's my photos (http://www.plattyjo.com/2015-leroica-california/) from the medium route ride! It was pretty challenging and I'm glad I opted for that route since I have some big randonneur rides coming up (including a 600k this weekend) and felt like I did leg presses all day, esp. with running 42-26 as my easy gear!

The route was gorgeous and challenging -- the last gravel climb of the day was a real grind but wow, the view at the top was worth it. I'll post more photos later on of Day 1 and all of the vintage bike porn.

Looking forward to attending L'Eroica in Italy (I hear the food is mind-blowing; the food was good but can't compare to what's offered abroad) -- and maybe Japan and England, too.

[texbike]

Here's my photos (http://www.plattyjo.com/2015-leroica-california/) from the medium route ride! It was pretty challenging and I'm glad I opted for that route since I have some big randonneur rides coming up (including a 600k this weekend) and felt like I did leg presses all day, esp. with running 42-26 as my easy gear!

The route was gorgeous and challenging -- the last gravel climb of the day was a real grind but wow, the view at the top was worth it. I'll post more photos later on of Day 1 and all of the vintage bike porn.

Looking forward to attending L'Eroica in Italy (I hear the food is mind-blowing; the food was good but can't compare to what's offered abroad) -- and maybe Japan and England, too.

Beautiful pictures! It looks like it was a blast!

Thanks for posting.

Texbike

[plattyjo]

And here's photos from John Prolly (http://theradavist.com/2015/04/a-weekend-at-eroica-california/#1)! You can see me in #24. :)

[Waldo]

Snip: Here's my photos (http://www.plattyjo.com/2015-leroica-california/) from the medium route ride!

Gotta love an organized ride without a helmet requirement.

[donevwil]

Snip:

Gotta love an organized ride without a helmet requirement.

In California no less.

[tiretrax]

That looks like a lot of fun. I hope I can make it to one, especially in Italy, soon.

[Steve in SLO]

Looks like a great ride!
I was really bummed to find out that I would not be in town make it. I am in Cancun for a family vacation (I know, cry me a river). I have texted GuyGadois to find out how it went, but he has not responded yet. He was thinking of doing the long route. He still may be asleep.

[coelacant]

https://www.flickr.com/photos/54057857@N07/sets/72157651529203419/

That's George Mount aka Smiling George in full Sammontana winter kit (pic20).
The 120 mi loop was a lot harder than it was billed, you might spot people you know from other Google groups -CR, SF rando, etc.
The climb up Kiler Canyon, Cypress Mt, and the descent into Cambria were a real test of willpower and handling skills.

[donevwil]

Does each bike have to pass a tech inspection ? How about details like wheels and shoes ? How closely are bikes and riders held to the regs ?

I'd so love to do an event like this and make an Eroica-worthy bike an n+1, but with my frame and shoe size requirements and a real world budget it's almost certainly never going to happen.

[coelacant]

No inspections whatsoever. I spotted a couple of stripped down 650B bikes, even one not quite 'vintage-looking' with CX tires. Just take a look at that guy in orange-t and cutoff shorts on Radavist set, a strong dude, he set the pace on the last climb and pulled the whole groupetto back to the finish line.

[Saxon]

I "almost" did the medium route but the group I was with missed the turn off for lunch after Kiler canyon and wound up rolling into downtown Paso scratching our heads at 50 miles, which was a bit of a bummer. Still not sure where we went wrong.
The scenery was pretty spectacular but I must admit I was getting weary of the dirt and gravel roads, especially after the Kiler climb/walk :) I'm very happy to report that my 23mm Michelin Pro 4 slicks did well in the gravel and rough roads with no flats!

I don't think there was any serious enforcement of rules. I was riding behind somebody on a mountain bike at one point and I was surprised to come up on someone wearing a Rapha outfit, but most of the riders were keeping to the spirit of the event. At the start line, I heard many scraping toe clips on the pavement and I couldn't help but think that if this really was the 70's/80's, those riders would be pretty good at getting their feet in the clips.
Some photos below! The last two photos are of riders struggling up Kiler :)

[GuyGadois]

Had a great time at Eroica which was pretty much in our backyard here on the Central California Coast. Weather was perfect. Started at about 55 degrees at 8:30am and moved up to 85 degrees in the afternoon with fairly minimal wind. I understand that they capped the number of participants to 750 (not 10000 like my post used to say) and it sold out. My wife and kids volunteered at registration and said that there were a number of people from different states and countries. I personally rode with people from Nova Scotia, Canada, Italy, Japan and Arizona (that's another country, right?). I rode the 70 mile (medium) length and found it very hard.

I think it was a very good first effort. There is no doubt I will do this next year if it is the area and maybe, gulp, do the long one. Here are my notes on the Goods and Bads:

Goods:

The Concours the day before had a lot of amazing bike. Eye candy! Wear sunglasses because chrome was abundant.
The swag bag contained good stuff including a sweet Eroica hat, pin, patch and a nice bottle of local olive oil when finishing
The food at the rest stops was good and bad. The first stop at Cass Winery 9:00am gave out water bottles with with either water or Viognier wine. Naturally, I took the wine. This may be the reason the ride was so hard. They also had breakfast burritos to go with the good wine. The second stop at Olea Olive Oil farms offered very fresh Belgium frites, bread and deep bowls of olive oil and spices. It was a lovely place. I would have loved a more substantial lunch but the fries added to the previous wine experience. The last rest stop was at Halter Ranch Winery and it was a cold cut lunch with some very nice wine. I would have liked the lunch a bit earlier. Almost no gels or quick bits to eat. Where are the chocolate chip cookies? Overall, good stops but I think the food choices could have been improved.
The route was awesome. 90% of the hill climbs were on dirt and they were hard. I would say 75% of the people walked a portion. One canyon in particular was awesome and an aptly named nightmare, Killer Canyon. It was amazingly difficult. See pic below. The roads were actually in amazing condition (except for the last 1/4 mile).
The bikes, oh, the bikes. Tons of bikes. Saw a ton of Raleigh, Merckx, Bottecchia, Cinelli and Bianchi. Most bikes were probably from the 1970's era.



The Bad:

Signage needs to be improved. Right out of the gate we took a left and 100 of us stopped in the road because we had no idea where to go. Most turn signs were AFTER the turn and never ahead of the turn. Not a good idea when you have small groups of riders. I chalk this up to being brand new.
No swap meet and very limited sellers. You would think this would be the perfect spot to exchange parts
They ran out of Jerseys before it even started




Concours
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7670/16954197309_547833d26b_b.jpg

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8753/16952609838_0dc19a3936_b.jpg

First rest stop. They handed out water bottles of wine.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7611/16944131739_c3f85d06f1_h.jpg

Heading out of Cass Winery to a very difficult climb
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7710/17128759732_b968153d42_h.jpg

Warning, hill is much steep in person. Killer Canyon.
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8714/17128776312_afa2ca63dc_h.jpg

Number 172 seemed to be very strong. I bet he's ridden before...
https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8747/16944161359_eff1b003e3_h.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7615/17128772792_71130af8a9_h.jpg

Not
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7593/17130338895_38ff0f1274_h.jpg

https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7717/17104375206_e02cde63b2_h.jpg

This guy was awesome. I rode with him for the first few miles. He was passing people on the left and right on a narrow dirt path with grace and ease. He only spoke Italian and I did the best with speaking to him but I couldn't understand a word he said with his heavy accent. So cool.
https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7662/17129716821_b471127fac_h.jpg

[Saxon]

Overall, good stops but I think the food choices could have been improved.

Signage needs to be improved.

Besides the cancellation of the movie being shown in the movie theater (it was shown silently on the ceiling of the tent) these would be my two gripes. The food was OK for a $60.00 club ride fund raiser with your basic pasta and cookies for dinner, but they need to up the ante a bit when the price is $150.00. I missed the lunch (see the signage quote above) but we really needed some kind of goo packs/ cookies/ power bars or sweet drinks at the second rest stop. They ran out of water when I was there and the folks at the winery very graciously allowed us to go into the tasting room and get water from a spigot.

[Buzz]

That fella is one of the original organizers of L'Eroica as seen here with my wife a couple of years ago. He rides bike number one.

[bikingshearer]

Simply a fantastic day. I would agree with Guy Gadois as to the plusses and minuses, but to me, the minuses were far, far outweighed by the plusses. What an amazing collection of bike porn, up close and in person. One comment on one of GG's minuses: the Santini folks took orders for the Eroica California jerseys, and they honored the special event price for them ($120 vs. $150 or so for regularly. it's a good looking jersey, and I am looking forward to getting mine.

I did the 43 mile ride, and it was plenty hard enough for me. Of course, as a serious Clydesdale with a 44x28 low gear (I usually run a 30x29 triple), it was pretty much guaranteed to be plenty hard enough for me. My personal disaster was the dirt climb to the second rest stop (the Olea olive oil ranch). It is definitely double-digits - definitely a walker for me. Small problem - I forgot to loosen my Binda Extra toe clip straps. They were advertised back in the day as keeping your feet firmly in place because they do not stretch. The ads were 100% accurate. I didn't have enough speed to be able to bend down to loosen them and i couldn't pull my feet out (believe me, I tried), so I had two choices: crash, or gut it out to the top of unpleasantly double-digit climb. I did not crash. However, I did hurt. A lot. At the top of the hard climb part (there was more road to the ranch that was gentle up or flat) and as soon as I could unclip, I pulled over, stopped, and gulped air as quickly as I could while the people who started walking when I wanted to and who I left behind with my undesired climbing walked by, all wondering if I was about to barf up a lung. That little unplanned output of energy pretty much cooked me for the day - I was never really recovered, feeling sluggish the entire final 16 miles. But all of that is on me, not the organizers.

I unfortunately had to miss the councours due to an intervening scheduling conflict, but there were so many unbelievably cool machines on the road and at the finish area that that ended up being minor disappointment.

Speaking of Rider #1 mentioned in previous posts, he was a real character. One of the bikes on the road was a 70cm (that is not a typo) early 1970s Cinelli. The owner let me through a leg over it. I'm 6'3 and usually ride a 62cm to 64cm frame. I could place my feet flat on the ground while straddling the top tube, by just barely with the bar crunched unpleasantly into my naughty bits. Rider #1 is not tall, but at the first rest stop, he climbed on the big-boy bike. When he managed to get onto the saddle, his foot could juuuuuust reach the pedal - at the very top of the stroke. It was quite a hoot.

Regarding equipment - modern components are better than the "classic" stuff. Clips and straps suck. Old brakes (mine were Universal 51s, a 60-plus year old design) do not work nearly as well as new dual-pivots. Brifters are much easier to use than downtube shifters. But lugged steel still rules.

Bottom line: The course was great, the weather was perfect, and I had a wonderful time. If L'Eroica cames back to Paso Robles next year, I'll be there. You should be there, too.

[beeatnik]

I understand that they capped the number of participants to 10000 and it sold out.

10,000 or 1,000? If it's 10,000 sounds like it might be the largest "fondo" in the country.

[plattyjo]

No inspections whatsoever. I spotted a couple of stripped down 650B bikes, even one not quite 'vintage-looking' with CX tires. Just take a look at that guy in orange-t and cutoff shorts on Radavist set, a strong dude, he set the pace on the last climb and pulled the whole groupetto back to the finish line.

That's Scotty Chapin, a top CX racer w/ Rock Lobster! He brought his beater commuter bike and got lost; he told me he went all the way back downtown as a result and came back up to finish!

Here's photos from Day 1 (http://www.plattyjo.com/2015-leroica-california-day-1/) -- so much bike porn...

[plattyjo]

10,000 or 1,000? If it's 10,000 sounds like it might be the largest "fondo" in the country.

Actually, I talked to one of the organizers and they said it didn't sell out, but topped out around 700. That seemed to be the case given the numbers at all of the events.

[choke]

I agree with the majority - it was a great ride and just needs a bit of fine tuning. Perhaps I shouldn't have been, but I was surprised at the number of Italians on the ride.

http://cycle.ciocctoo.com/er1.jpg

http://cycle.ciocctoo.com/er2.jpg

This was Saturday's star IMO.

http://cycle.ciocctoo.com/er3.jpg

[GuyGadois]

anyone catch this guy in my photos? Sure looks good in Pink...

https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8747/16944161359_eff1b003e3_h.jpg
I guess the sox give it away...

[choke]

anyone catch this guy in my photos? Sure looks good in Pink...
I guess the sox give it away...I said 'hi' to him at the first stop. :) You were in some good company....I happened to chat with #664 after the ride (and had no idea who he was until he told me).

[Duende]

Great ride, great people. Had the pleasure of meetin Choke in person. In fact that's my buddy on a Motobecane Titanium Pro Ligh in his pic.

Ride was more challenging skill wise than physically it seemed as many folks were walking their bikes up the hills.

I didn't see any non-regulation bikes. I suspect people were jumping in on the action but weren't actually registered.

Definitely will be doing it again next year. All in all I say bravo for the freshman effort!

[Echo]

As most have eluded to thus far, for a first year event, the organizers did a bang up job. For next year, there definitely needs to be better course marking, but past that, I think they did a stellar job.

One thing I learned is that 22c tires on gravel are not awesome... I'll be back next year with something a bit more suited to the conditions.

[RudAwkning]

Got lost less than a mile out of the gate, found someone's Passport/stamp card, returned it to him 30 miles later (fully stamped), was given the stink eye by a friend for dropping her, got lost again backtracking to find said friend after big climb (and climbed all the way back up Hidden Moutain Road to Daou Winery!), found friend, finished ride, had ice cream. All in all an awesome weekend.

[plattyjo]

was given the stink eye by a friend for dropping her

I just had to remind him that he wasn't going to "win" the Medium Route after getting us lost in the beginning and that he'd have to try next year. :banana:

[Saxon]

Does anyone know who was flying the camera drone over the start line? That would be cool footage to see.

[bikingshearer]

^^^ My guess: the NSA. Oh, and you can expect a visit from "them" in the near future . . . . :rolleyes:

[Steve in SLO]

A camera drone at L'eroica?!?
I hope it was pre-1986.
It would've been cool if somebody was riding a World War II bicycle with a sniper rifle and took it out.

[Saxon]

A camera drone at L'eroica?!?


Here's the event video from the folks that were using the drone!

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EwUxb-hNPyQ

[numbskull]

Thanks for posting it although it gives the sense that the ride itself was overwhelmed by vast energy and scale that is California.