2010 News Items
Posted 12-6-2010
Bike Box
Caltrans District 5 has installed a bike box on Madonna Road at its intersection with South Higuera. This is a really cool way to help cyclists get through the intersection when they want to turn left and cars want to go straight. Adam Fukushima of CalTrans writes:
So far, we are getting over 90% compliance from motorists on the first stop bar. That's pretty good. However, while cyclists are using the box, they are hugging the right curb area. We'd appreciate any help in showing that cyclists may use the entire box while the light is red if they desire. Here's a photo of what I mean by proper use.
SAN LUIS OBISPO – Caltrans has installed a "bike box" at the intersection of Madonna Road and South Higuera Street. A bike box is a green box with a white bicycle symbol inside. Caltrans worked with the City of San Luis Obispo on the bike box design. Bike boxes are designed to reduce conflicts between bicyclists turning left and motorists proceeding straight. It allows bicyclists to move in front of waiting vehicles at a red light so that they are more visible.
· What motorists should know: When the traffic signal is yellow or red, motorists must stop behind the white stop line behind the green bike box. When the traffic signal is green, motorists and cyclists may move through the intersection as usual, with cyclists going first.
· What bicyclists should know: When the traffic signal is yellow or red, enter the bike box from the approaching bike lane and stop before the crosswalk. When the light is green, proceed as usual.
Caltrans and the City of San Luis Obispo have put together an illustrated brochure on the use of bike boxes, which is available at:
http://www.dot.ca.gov/dist05/bike_ped/bike_box_brochure.pdf
Posted 12-3-2010
December Potluck [Updated]
We had a fabulous Potluck last night -- you really missed out if you weren't there. Sandy Pitt came up with the inventive idea of an international theme which motivated some wonderful costumes. In addition it led to a tasty combination of dishes featuring some of the member's favorites from all over the world. Gil Pitt finished off the evening by auctioning off donations to the Heifer program which gives money for various animals around the world.
President's Awards. President Red Davis, with Pam Zirion at his side, presented President's Awards to 12 club members who gave unselfishly of their time to make Kirk Zirion's last couple of years more pleasant: Kath and Harvey Cohon, Ross Pepper, Terry Heller, Dorothy Curhan, Jacque Wheeler, Tim and Shelley Long, Gary and Lenore Spelbring, Kent Brahams, and Bob Zilkey.
Click on the photo to the right to visit a gallery of photos Jeff Kahn and Janie Goldenberg contributed.
Posted 11-5-2010
Annual Sheriff Bicycle Program
The SLO County Sheriff is again giving bicycles to needy kids this Christmas. The club contributes is help by giving an annual donation (of $500) for helmets to go with these bikes. The photos below were take by Dale Sutliff of Dave Abrecht contributing to the Sheriff's celebration of this effort.
 |
 |
Posted 10-31-2010
Tortoise Holloween Ride
Last Friday, the Tortoises rode to Biddle Park from the Bandstand in AG. Costumes were recommended, but only a few people wore them. Here are some photos Janie Goldenberg took.
The picture above shows a collection of the people in the Tortoises that wore costumes. On the right are photos of: the group of 19 having refreshments at Biddle Park, the group waiting to leave Biddle Park, and the Breakaway group that they ran into along the road. |
 |
 |
|
 |
Posted 10-19-2010
2010 Indulgence Ride
The photos below were taken by Stu Goldenberg. In addition, you can view a gallery prepared by Dave Abrecht.
Craig Armstrong wrote
Had heavy drizzle at the start of the Indulgence Ride but other than that no issues. Did the flat 70 mile ride and rode most of the way with with Gil, Jeff, and Kate. Got to the Y in Ventura about 3. The group that did Ojai had to deal with some flats and made it to the Y just before 5. Overall, a good time...
Gar and Elizabeth Salzgeber wrote
Elizabeth and I were extremely impressed by how well this last Saturdays Indulgence Ride went. The tour went off as if you were professional Tour Leaders (maybe you are and that's a redundant statement...). Even the CHAOS was organized!!!
Naturally this ride wouldn't have gone nearly as well if we didn't have such positively motivated participants on the tour, but that's a trite statement because anybody in the club could have easily fit in!
We're looking forward to next years Indulgence Ride.
Gary Havas wrote
Some of you might like to ... examine the elevation profile pedaled by Michael, Long, Tom and I on the 2010 Indulgence Ride [see graph below].
Thanks for your company and good cheer on this well-produced and enjoyed event!
Cheers!
 |
 |
 |
|
 |
Route of Ojai option. Gray graph shows route profile. From Gary Havas' Garmin computer. |
 |
Posted 10-7-2010
Ride to Recovery
Gil and Sandy Pitt organized the club's support to the annual Ride to Recovery. This is an event for veterans and includes many who are disabled -- but who do the challenging multi-day ride from the Bay Area to Los Angeles anyway. Dispite the rain, about 20 club members showed up in SLO to welcome the riders as they arrived. Some then climbed on their bikes and joined the ride to Pismo Beach. Gil Pitt took a collection of photos which you can view here.
Posted 9-14-2010
Kirk Ziron
Sadly, Kirk Ziron, who has been suffering from ALS for the last several years, died on Sunday. There will be a memorial service for him at 3 PM on October 8 at the Dallidet Adobe (1185 Pacific Street, SLO). Pam has indicated that she'd like members, who are so inclined, to make donations to the ALS Association or towards a bicycle rack in Kirk's name.
Posted 9-10-2010
Center of the Universe
Tim Long writes: "
For many years, Tony Leap declared at the monthly SLOBC meeting that Los Osos was the center of the universe. I now have photographic proof that it isn't so... apparently, Wallace, Idaho is the center of the universe. Ironically, the plaque delineating the center is in an intersection and is the approximate size of a manhole cover ( sewer access)."
Posted 9-9-2010
Indulgence Ride News
The 2010 Indulgence Ride is just two weeks away. There are still seats available on the bus. If you are interested in going, go to Special Events to find out more.
Posted 9-9-2010
SLO Velo Start Time Change (again)
SLO Velo has decided to return to it's original start time, 9 AM each Saturday morning.
Posted 8-28-2010
Yellowjackets in Avila
Dale Sutliff write: "Yellowjackets group has yet another hard Friday at Avila Beach."
|
|
Posted 8-8-2010
Tortoises Turn Four!
Four year's ago, Janie and Stu Goldenberg decided they would try out a new ride for those that really didn't want to ride too far or too fast -- the rule for the ride was no more than 10 miles and a pace of 10 mph. There were a total of five people on that first ride. Since then the group has grown so that there have been dozens of club members that have riden with the group. Below are some photos from their recent birthday party.
The original group - Stu and Janie Goldenberg, Martin Howell, Bob Behnke and Geni Stedman |
Gini Stedman and Marti Roberts Cut Tortoises Cake |
 |
Posted 8-6-2010
SLOBC Trikes
Four club members showed off their trikes at the club meeting last night after Frank Mullin presented an overview of the "trike decision" -- factors to consider if you're thinking of switching to a trike. All four presenters were strong advocates of riding a trike. (Go to presentation).
To find out more about trikes and trike buying choices, visit Will Benedict's website (note the trike related links in the right column).
 Frank Mullin on his Catrike Expedition. |
Dan Healy discusses off his TerraTrike Cruiser |
 |
 Swede Larson shows off his new Catrike 700 (with all this high performance goodies). |
Will Benedict show his unique Hase Kettwiesel that supports two connected trikes for independent tantem riding. |
 |
Posted 8-2-2010
"Ride Right" Safety Message
SLO Velo ride leader Ron Starkey obtained an excellent bike safety video produced by the Marin County Cyclists and the Marin County Bicycle Coalition. The video is a great "refresher course" for safe riding habits. See the video.
Posted 7-26-2010
Race Training
Glen Vanderlinde's annual race traing rides to teach you how to ride faster and with more endurance are starting August 2. To find out more, go to the Ride Calendar area.
Posted 7-20-2010
Ride Calendar Changes
The following changes have been made to the Ride Calendar and take effect immediately (that is, your newsletter is no longer accurate for these rides).
- The SLO Velo ride will now begin at 8:30 each Saturday rather than 9:00
- There is a new group in North County -- the Scramblers. It follows the pattern of the Ramblers (departing Mondays from Atascadero, Wednesdays from Templeton and Fridays from Paso Robles) but is at a somewhat slower pace and shorter distance. Find out more in the Ride Calendar area.
Posted 7-10-2010
Indulgence Ride
The Indulgence Ride is scheduled for Saturday, October 16, 2010. To find out more, go to the Special Events page.
Posted 6-14-2010
SLOB Stats Celebration
After 10 years and 5 months, Mike Curren reached ultimate Slob Stats goal -- the DIAMOND level for riding 100,000 miles! Mike is the MAN. Mike celebrated his achievement at Kelley in Cayucos on Sunday with the aid of a host of club members and well wishers.
 |
|
 |
|
Posted 6-11-2010
Blood Bank Ride
On Sunday, September 5, we are coordinating with the United Blood Services, our local blood bank, to do a short bicycle ride. This will be followed my FOOD, and an opportunity to learn more about our local blood bank. Larry Fredericks, who owes his life to blood banks, will be present to ride with us and also promote the benefits of donating blood. This is a community ride, or at least what has been mentioned to this point is for the community. A longer ride may follow afterwards.
This is still in the planning stages. If you are interested in helping, please contact me, Stu Goldenberg, or Mona Kleman (543-4290) mkleman@bloodsystems.org.
Posted 6-4-2010
SLOBC Hoedown
Recently Gil Pitt saw a letter in the Tribune about a group of 5th grade kids that were riding monthly from their school to ice cream in Arroyo Grande. As a result, Gil and Sandy organized a special trip in which club members gave the kids safety inspections and tips in exchange to free ice cream (on the club). In total, over 25 kids participated (on separate rides for the boys and girls). Some great photos were taken (visit girls photos and boys photos to see them). Look to the newsletter for a more complete description of this activity.
Posted 5-27-2010
Dave William's Birthday Ride
Davetreated the Frequent Feeders to coffee and muffins in Morro Bay yesterday. Here are a couple of photos from the ride.
. Dave and his rock at coffee (and he paid!) |
The cow ladies line up to see Dave climb Turri Rd. (That's Dave on his bike.) |
Posted 5-19-2010
SLOBC Hoedown
Don't forget the theme of our potluck next week is the Hoedown! "Polish your boots - dust off your hats" and come prepared to dance and celebrate! For more information, go to the Meeting area of the website.
Posted 5-19-2010
7 Ladies' Saturday Ride
Gail Vanderlinde, Robin Dery, Joan Henry, Joan Petersen, Verena Florence, Irene Vega and Judie Prock got together in Santa Margarita last Saturday for a ride up Rocky Canyon. They were so impressed by the stop at Colby Jack's (Atascadero) during Larry Rutter's SloPoke ride that they stopped there again
 |
 |
Posted 5-14-2010
Change in Ramber Rides
Effective immediately, the Atascadero Rambler ride will take place on Monday, while the Templeton Rambler ride is moved to Wednesday. Everything else about the rides is as it was in the past.
Posted 4-27-2010
Bike Month Kickoff Rides
The club is supporting several rides this coming Saturday in support of Bike Month. Join in on one of them and help promote cycling in San Luis Obispo County. All rides start at 9 AM and some feature a coffee stop along the way.
- Gazebo (AG) led by Ken Price. 12-15 mph pace for about 30 miles.
- Sinsheimer Park (SLO) led by Dale Sutliff. 12-14 mph pace for about 30 miles to AG and back.
- Sinsheimer Park (SLO) led by Kathy Cohon. 10-12 mph pace for about 10 miles.
- Gazebo (AG) led by Will Benedict. 12-14 mph pace for about 30 miles out to Huasna and back.
- Starbucks (Higuera/Tank Farm in SLO) led by Ron Starkey. 15-18 mph (advanced skills) for about 45 miles.
Posted 4-26-2010
Wonderful Wildflower
We had another wonder Wildflower ride this year. We all owe a big thanks to our co-chairs, Dave Abrecht and Tim Long for doing a great job and the hundreds of volunteers who did their usual outstanding jobs. As always, we had thousands (1400) of happy riders enjoying the food and good care provided by the volunteers. This year there was the added treat of really flourishing wildflower. One of the riders, Chip Morgan, wrote that the flowers this year were better than he's ever seen them. He stopped along the way to snap these great photos.
 |
 |
 |
 |
Posted 4-15-2010
Joint Celebration at Lopez
An amazing coincidence? Good planning? Conspiracy? Who knows what led to it -- but yesterday the SloPokes, the Frequent Feeders and the Flyers groups all rode out High Mountain road before returning to the Lopez Lake Camp Ground for a joint celebration organized by Bob Zilkey. After some showers earlier in the week, the weather was perfect and all enjoyed their time together feasting on the goodies brought by Bob. The three groups were led by Bob Lindquist, Willi Zilkey and Larry Bradford.
 |
 |
 |
 |
Posted 4-4-2010
People for Bikes
As mentioned at our Club meeting last week, as a spin off to the
National Bike Summit recently held in Wash., D. C.,
a new website has been set up to help us all "get involved." To check this out, visit People for Bikes. Once there, click on the "get
involved" button on the top banner and sign the bicycling pledge to
add your name
to millions of cyclists who are serious about supporting bicycling.
Posted 4-3-2010
Scavenger Hunt
Despite his injuries, Red Davis has continued to apply his evil mind to the scavenger hunt. As such, it will take place as planned (on Saturday, April 10). Debbie and Dave Abrecht will be helping his wicked consort Gail Davis implement the devilish ideas seeping out if Red's twisted mind. So plan to show up at Lila Kaiser at 9 AM next Saturday and be abused as you try to match wits with the Davis duo.
Posted 3-31-2010
Poker Ride Shenanigans
Information about the goings on at this year's Poker Ride are very sketchy. There are rumors of fraud involving a certain doctor, but they are being hushed up. As always, the organizers have shown their continued incompetence in their ability to control the cheating that is rampant at the event. There are other scandals that will surface as we learn more. We'll keep digging, however and expect to divulge more information in the future. Stay tuned.....
 |
 |
 |
Posted 3-31-2010
Flowers on Bitterwater
Gail Vanderlinde writes: " Glenn is riding with the 3T group, Saturday, starting in Shandon, riding the Bitterwater loop, back to Shandon. I think it is about an 80 mile ride. I rode part of Bitterwater (a 30 mile road) and part of the Hwy 58 section (a 20 mile road, on down to Shell Creek.) I am attaching 3 pictures that I took yesterday. Bitterwater is so much prettier than Shell Creek, I think. There are loose cows on Bitterwater Road." |
 |
 |
 |
Posted 3-30-2010
Red's Accident
Red Davis was out doing a ride on his mountain bike yesterday when he fell. He was unable to unclip and broke his leg as a result. Fortunately, he had cell phone service and was able to call for help. When they arrived, it evidently took four people from Cal Fire to get him down from where he fell to where they could get him on a stretcher. They took him onto the hospital.
Gail reported that his leg was broken in three places and required surgery which was performed by Dr Devine last evening. Red will evidently be more screwy in the future as they had to install two plates in his leg which are held in place by some screws.
He will hopefully be able to go home today where he will be able to pester Gail all day (please send your condolence cards to her as I'm sure she'll need them). He'll be on crunches for about two months.
Posted 3-29-2010
San Miguel Ride CANCELLED
Unfortunately, Red Davis has been injured and will be unable to lead his ride (A Bridge Too Far) this Saturday from San Miguel Park. Please pass the word along to anyone who might have been planning to partricipate.
Posted 3-18-2010
Baywood / Los Osos Group
The photo at the right was catured today by Jeff Kahn. It shows the gang of riders as they depart on the weekly Thursday ride to Cayucos (and other points north). As can be seen in the photo, it was another of the fabulous Spring days we been suffering through of late.
Posted 3-15-2010
Frequent Feeder Email Group
We have finally fixed one of the holes in our email groups, and created one for those that like to ride with the Frequent Feeders. Now they will no longer need to use the General Group to communicate with their fellow riders. We have tried to invite everyone who currently rides with the Feeders, but we may have overlooked some. If you haven't received an invitation and would like to be part of the group, go to our email group page to join. You'll find the email group page in the membership area.
Posted 3-13-2010
Poker Ride
Poker ride information now available on the special events page.
Posted 3-9-2010
Shell Creek Road Blocked.
Harvey petersen reports a puddle and washout on Shell Creek Road, two miles east of Truesdale that cyclists cannot cross
Posted 3-4-2010
Ridin' in the Rain!
Two groups that rode Wednesday despite the possibility of rain were the SloPokes and the Frequent Feeders.
Here is a photo from Bruce's birthday ride. The picture was taken at Lila Keiser. The actual ride was kind of rained out but we still celebrated. Bruce added: "Thanks to all who came, despite the rain." |
Here's the Feeder's Weather Warriors of our ride.
Started with 10 hardy souls, ended with six. Rain threatened but we experienced only a very brief and light sprinkle once
during the ride - with blue skies, constant tailwinds, and downhills runs far-exceeding uphill grunts. |
Posted 2-24-2010
Richard Fox Bike Rack Dedication
Despite the rain today, over thirty club members showed up to help dedicate the bicycle rack installed in front of Boo Boo's Records in memory of Richard Fox. Dave Abrecht read the plaque to those in attendance, and Don Drake read a touching poem.
Larry Rutter put together a video of the proceedings which you can see at YouTube.
Richard's fiancee, Letty Cotta sent the following
Please extend my personal thanks to the Bike Club for the thoughtful tribute to Richard. As I said this morning, the bike rake is a perfect way to use the money he gifted to the club. The design, location and purpose is a wonderful addition to the city he was so happy to be a part of. I was alone for nine years and although I am blessed with a wonderful family and good friends, having Richard in my life, even briefly, was a special gift. I was happy to be with you;at the dedication.
Posted 2-19-2010
SLO Pokes visit Lopez
Last Wednesday, the SLO Pokes rode from the Bandstand in AG to Lopez Lake. They were led by Fred Cummings, and fed by Donna Cummings who broght the refreshments they enjoyed when they reached the lake.
For an album of the photos provided by the Goldenbergs, click the photo at the right.
Posted 2-17-2010
Kathleen Retires
Kathleen McHugh celebrated her retirement with lots of friends from her school and the bike club. The party featured music, food and gifts (including this unique birdhouse / schoolhouse). Mike Peeples has put together an album of some pictures taken at the celebration. Click the picture at the right to visit the site with this album.
Kathleen and Ernest will be departing on a cross-country bike trip on March 20. They have invited all to join them in their departure. If you're interested, be at the SLO Grind (in the CostCo shopping center) at 10 AM and ride with a ways with them.
Posted 2-16-2010
A Day in the Sun!
The Frequent Feeders visited Dairy Creek last Wednesday where Dave Williams captured these photos showing the beautiful blue sky and green hills -- it almost hurts your eyes to look a such beauty! Aren't we lucky.
 |
 |
Posted 2-16-2010
Tortoise Valentine Celebration
The Tortoises gathered at the Hostel Obispo to celebrate Valentines day over pancakes, conversation and, of course, a ride around SLO. These photos thanks to the Goldenbergs.
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
|
Posted 1-18-2010
2010 Ride Leader's Brunch
This year our ride coordinator, Dave Abrecht, decided that a change was in order -- we should have a brunch rather than a dinner for ride leaders so that these leaders could ride their bikes to the event. Unfortunately, the weatherman didn't get the memo and schedule rain for the same day. Still some leaders proved their metal (or lack of wisdom) and rode anyway.
Some of the members who rode despite the rain. |
Dave Abrecht shows the ride leaders a slide show of photos from some of the rides they led in 2009. How many rides did they lead? Dave indicated that it was over 850 -- thank you ride leaders! |
 
|
Retiring ride leader Jerry Lundstrom was honored for his 25 years of leadership of the Baywood / Los Osos ride. |
Posted 1-18-2010
Pictures along the road in January
Below are photos take on some recent rides.
Ron Starkey and his Slo Velo group on a recent ride talking to other "bikers." |
Some of the club members regrouping at the end of Moonstone Drive on a ride celebrating Dave Abrecht's 61st birthday. |
Club Members enjoying a coffee stop in the middle of the 2010 Bob Garing Safety Ride. |
Posted 1-14-2010
"Re-cycle" your old bike parts and cycling gear
We have all accumulated a certain amount of bike parts and cycling gear that gathers dust in our garages. Now you can put that gear to good use! Beginning with the February general meeting (February 4th) a representative from the SLO Bike Kitchen will provided a box to collect old and usable bike parts. The Kitchen will accepts parts that are either working or broken.
The SLO Bike Kitchen was formed to provide a place for the community to come together for the purpose of bicycle education, camaraderie, parts recycling and do-it-yourself work which teaches you to be confident in knowing your bike. For more information or questions, go to the bike kitchen website or contact them by e-mail.
Posted 1-14-2010
2010 Board
The photo on the left below show the 2010 board: Chris Broome (treasurer), Ken Price (safety), Red Davis (president), Janie Goldenberg (historian), Sandy Pitt (member-at-large), Dale Sutliff (advocate), Frank Mullin (past president), Sharon Sutliff (vice-president), Dave Abrecht (ride coordinator), and Will Benedict (newsletter editor). Missing are Gail Davis (secretary) and Bob Lindquist (membership).
The right photo show past president, Frank Mullin, with the club's gift of a perfect image of him on his trike
 |
 |
Posted 1-11-2010
Larry's Blog
Just after Christmas, Larry Rutter wrote
I'm trying a new vehicle for expressing my love of bicycling, bicycling in SLO and causing some (hopefully) harmless mischief now that I am no longer club secretary (sniff).
It's called "Bicycle Slo(w)" and can be viewed at www.bicycleslo.com.
Bicycle Slo(w) has news and comments about bicycling generally and about riding in and around the Central Coast. It'll be updated regularly, daily if possible.
Check it out and let me know what you think.
If this proves to be something Larry wants to continue, your webmaster will add a menu items here so club members will have an easy way to find this interesting new site.
Posted 1-9-2010
New Years Day Ride
Eighty-five SLOBC members, friends and guests showed up in Cambria on a cool and grey New Year's Day for our annual ride to Ragged Point. Riders were met with hot coffee, muffins and Mardi Gras beads to celebrate the arrival of 2010. Even the "hammerhead" riders who showed up were required to wear at least one string of beads. With riders of all ages and abilities, we had a string of colorful cyclists up the coast. What a great way to start the New Year!
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
 |
Posted 1-8-2010
Website Contributions
We continue to look for more stories or other content for our website. If you have something you'd like posted, please send it to Frank Mullin as you have in the past.
Posted 1-7-2010
Bob Garing Safety Day
Each year on the third Saturday of the January, club members gather at the Mission (at a bike rack with a plaque dedicated to Bob Garing) to remember him. He was a past-president of the club, as well as a dedicated advocate of cycling in the county.
This year, the date is January 16. The Goldenbers will lead a ride that begins at 9 a.m. Before we hit the road, we will say a few words about Bob Garing. Words from others that knew Bob will be welcome. The ride will be around the perimeter of San Luis Obispo, including that stretch of road which is dedicated to him. The ride will include a coffee stop.
Posted 1-2-2010
Tortoise New Year's Day Ride
Stu and Janie Goldenberg write:
15 Tortoises and guests participated in our New Years Day ride around San Luis Obispo. The ride concluded with a pot luck lunch at our home.
 |
 |
 |
 |
Posted 1-1-2010
SLO Velo
The photo on the right was taken of the 14 SLO Velo participants on the ride on the day after Christmas. Following the photo shoot, the group went down to Pismo, then up Price Canyon to Ormande, over the hills (Ormande/Printz) to 227, before proceeding to Lopez Lake. The return route was on Orcutt and Tank Farm -- 48 miles in all.
In the midst of the ride, there was an accident which sent one of the riders to the hospital. The accident was caused by inattention while riding in a paceline.
This motivated Ron Starkey to publish some group riding guidelines which you'll now find at our website.