The Newbie Ride That Never Gets Old

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One of the first rides that I ever took when I first moved back home after college was a nice short one that is actually pretty close to home. Close to home in more ways that one because this is a ride that is probably one of my favorite rides that I would highly recommend to any other rider out there, new or experienced. This route is perfect for those who are new to riding, or even those who just want to get out of the house for a little while, or to reacquaint oneself with their bike. There is just enough twisties to keep you alert and focused, and yet forgiving enough to calm any newbie's nerves.

The ride I mapped out starts off at the local Starbucks that most of the riding community already uses as their meet up location for group rides. There is a corner gas station conveniently located at this location, so take advantage of it if you need to. Coming out of the gas station and making a left onto Santa Teresa Blvd, and start heading towards the hills. Within about 5 miles of traveling the homes start to disappear and all you are left with is a two-way road and open fields around you.

Turing up Baily Ave, you hit your first set of short but sweet curves. Try not to get too carried away with this segment because after about the first turn or so, the road does goes into a slight decreasing radius 180 turn. My first memory of this turn was a memorable one because I will never forget the time I was looking into the turn only to find myself looking into the back of a bicyclist.s bright yellow jersey. This route seems to be a favorite for many bicyclists, so don't forget to keep an eye out for them while riding, and make sure to share the road.

At the end of Bailey Ave you will be faced with a decision to go left or right around the side of the reservoir. Either route will take you to some nice roads, but the most more popular route would be the one to the left. Going left towards Uvas Road actually opens up multiple possibilities because at that point you are heading south towards the Santa Cruz mountains. After turning left it's nothing but a nice stretch of mildly twisty roads in front of you. After about 5-10 minutes of continuous fun you should make a left into the reservoir parking lot. Keep an out of this one or else you will just zoom by it if you are having too much fun on your bike. It is a nice open parking lot where you can stretch your legs, use the restroom, or just enjoy the view.

From here, you can backtrack your own ride and head home. Or, you can go directly back the same way, or you can take a slight detour by taking a right when you head out of the reservoir parking lot. When you head left you.ll follow the road until you come to another T-intersection. Make a left onto Watsonville Road for about 2 miles. Turn left on Bowden Ave, and another left onto Sycamore shortly after that. The road will then bend and turn into Oak Glen Ave. This is a nice short segment alternative to Uvas Road. There are some tricky turns here so take it slow if you are new to the road. Oak Glen will then junction again with Uvas Road and make a right to make your way back to Baily Ave again to complete your ride.

During rainy season, this is a road to watch out for because it can get quite dirty. However during the summer evenings this is one of the best stretches of roads you can possibly come across. Roads are usually empty in the evenings and early morning (besides the usual bicyclist). Hot summers are no problems because you run segments of shady areas. Extra long sunlight hours make this road the perfect short weekday evening distress ride. Not to mention, if you find yourself in the right location, this area has a really beautiful sunset view. A perfect ending for the perfect ride.

The Newbie Ride That Never Gets Old

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