Messages

91

General Discussion / Re: Early/Late Options for Western Express?

« on: March 27, 2011, 05:44:24 pm »

Vtmidlifer -There will be an incredible amount of snow at Truckee and points south. Nearly 12 feet of snow fell this week in the Squaw Valley, and an additional 18 inches are expected to fall in the Tahoe basin area by the end of this weekend. As you approach your start date, check in with Caltrans about road conditions. As was pointed out, while the roads may be passable, there may be limited services that early in the season. As a backup, you may want to consider riding North from SF toward Oroville and using SR 70 - it generally follows the Feather River. It crosses the Sierras at a much lower elevation. You could then catch US395 or south to Reno and then travel to Carson City. Best of luck.

92

GPS & Digital Data Discussion / Re: The IPad2 solution...What Do You Think?

« on: March 27, 2011, 02:13:11 pm »

I agree with the comments regarding the use of maps. GPS while backpacking may be useful (I don't know - I still use maps), but GPS use while on paved roads seems overkill. While I find that tablets and computers are more weight and bulk then I wish to carry (and like Valygrl, I do not wish to be a slave to electronic devices), I am using the small tablets, such as the Galaxy Tab, for Google maps and Earth. What I find is that even good state road maps do not always have all roads noted, and I like the ability to see the condition of the road when planning my route. As an example, we are biking through Southern Idaho this summer enroute to the Southeast and without the use of Google maps, I would have thought the only choice for some sections was I-84. A look at Google maps indicated old U.S. 30 and other such roads, along with county roads, were available to bypass using the Interstate. Since the tablet is turned off unless I need to check something, the battery lasts several days of use before recharging is necessary. USB adaptor and a wall outlet is all that is needed. Just another tool to make the journey an enjoyable one.

93

Routes / Re: Best source of information on Pacific coast route?

« on: March 17, 2011, 08:19:13 pm »

For those planning on traveling U.S.1 from Carmel to Big Sur, the southbound roadway slid into the ocean today (3/17) and there are reports the northbound lane is also being undermined. Plan accordingly.

94

Routes / Re: Best source of information on Pacific coast route?

« on: March 16, 2011, 07:19:19 pm »

I have biked from Seattle to the Bay Area a half dozen times during the time period you are contemplating, and I used the Vicki Spring/ Tom Kirkendall book. Oregon also produces a very good and informative coast bike route map. The Oregon Department of Transportation Pedestrian and Bicycle Program distributes the map for free (or at least they did distribute for free - things change). While the book may be outdated, the route suggestions are not. I suggest you take advantage of those suggested routes that take you off of U.S. 101, particularly the section south of Tillamook on the Oregon Coast and through Coos Bay. Crossing the Astoria Bridge over the Columbia from Washington isn't fun (no shoulders, narrow traffic lane, and no sidewalks). The two tunnels on the Oregon Coast are not a problem, but be sure to activate the "Bicylists in Tunnel" lights, and don't dally. In general, the Oregon coast route is great - good shoulders, good scenery, good state parks. California is a challenge and not as bike friendly as Oregon. U.S. 1 in California, particularly in Mendocino, Sonoma, and Marin counties, can be narrow, no shoulders, and a great deal of RV traffic. Be sure to use the suggested alternate routes throught the Redwoods in Northern California (Avenue of the Giants as an example). Washington is also a friendly biking state. As to the weather during September/October - September is a good month; October can be iffy if you like to ride without layering.

95

General Discussion / Re: I don't like dogs! (around my bike)

« on: March 07, 2011, 07:33:08 pm »

I point at the chasing dog and with authority say, "NO!!". Who doesn't tell their dog No? Every dog has stopped, looking confused, and has broken off the chase.