[socaljohn]

I definitely feel your pain. I did almost the exact same thing while riding San Clemente Single Track a few months back. Came out of a turn and on to a bridge across a gully and stupidly looked at what I wanted to avoid (edge of bridge) instead of looking where I wanted to GO! Ran right off the edge and planted my bike and my body in the embankment. Felt like I broke my ribs and shoulder but ended up with bruising and a very sore body. Seriously bent my rim to where it couldn’t be straightened. Had to buy a new one. I was able to amaze my buddy with my field repair and got the rim straight enough to ride back to the trucks. (Here is a YouTube vid showing the way I did it…and no, that’s not me or my video) [url:n1ml2hpe]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RlozmeTNim4[/url:n1ml2hpe] The biggest bummer is I didn’t get to enjoy any morphine!

[socaljohn]

Oh Puuuleeze! I Started at 63 and can outride many of you "older young guys" or is it "younger old guys" Ha! I have my suspicions that my 20 years younger riding buddy sometimes isn’t really working as hard as he makes it sound!
You picked a great sport. Keep it up!

[socaljohn]

Sounds like a awesome trip! Here are some things to think about. California is big. Actually, larger than the country of Italy (we are the third largest state in the USA). You didn’t mention how much of California you want to visit. The northern part of the state is vastly different than the southern.

Here are a couple of thoughts. If you intend to return to your point of origin before returning home then consider this. Rent something like a camper van. This allows you complete freedom. Then, rent your bicycles from a good bike shop in the same general area. Then, when you are done with your trip, everything
is easily returnable. Don’t take the train as it will probably never get you where you want to go. This isn’t Europe!
The downside to this is the price of gas. When I was young gas was less than 30 cent per gallon. Now it’s $4.00 or more per gallon.

As for actually doing some mountain biking, no one knows the best areas better than the locals. Many areas have mountain biking clubs and you could contact them. I bet many would even love to ride with you and show you the best trails. Also, check with the local bike shops. They will help you find the best trails for their areas.

You really need to do some homework before you leave if you want to make the most of your trip.
Hope you have a great time!

[socaljohn]

I don’t often ride bicycles,
but when I do, I prefer MOUNTAIN BIKES!
Ride safely my friend!

(my apologies to Dos Equis beer commercial)

BTW, I’ve only been riding for 9 months but my skills have
improved immensely. Take blundar’s advice and ride at least
a couple of times a week (I ride 2-3 times). Your skills and fitness
will thank you. I’m 63 and can keep up with many of the guys half my age.

[socaljohn]

You drank the Kool-Aid my friend. There is no cure, only another fix.

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