SwimmerMike 

[QUOTE=mech986;22210937]


Fire season, especially in California, would certainly be another issue and it sure has been, especially for Northern and Eastern California. Imagine if Eroica was held in Sonoma or Napa counties, smoke has been a real issue on some days in many areas. God forbid any fires broke out in the Central Coast area around Cambria.


Last year on some days in September, there was no place in California with clean air. I know this because my wife and one of my kids have bad asthma and the smoke was causing them problems and we needed to find some clean air. We were hoping to go to SLO or even San Diego thinking the coast would be clear, but the nearest "clear air" was in Salt Lake City. We packed up the dogs and kids and drove there for a week so that their lungs could recover.

mech986 

See my post with the email I posted, and which you have received by now. Your caution paid off and I hope you'll be able to plan for Spring 2022, assuming conditions allow the event to happen with safety. Right now its dependent on a lot of things that need to happen for the overall health issues to improve greatly. IMO, California is trying hard, we have trended somewhat better over the past few weeks with cases per 100,000 down in the lower half of states while the next two most populous states are in the top half, and top 5 respectively, plus their regions and hospital systems are currently heavily under siege from new infections. California's vaccinations efforts continue to progress with above US (52%) average of 56% fully vaccinated while the next two largest states by population are at 47% and 53% respectively. First vaccinations are trending similarly for California (69%) vs the other two biggest states (57 and 64%) so hopefully within 30 days (for 2 shot series) fully vaccinated numbers will continue to rise. Still, the entire country is a far cry from the case lows we saw in Spring 2021, the calm before the delta variant storm. Unfortunately, additional variants and potential waves over the next 6-12 months are a strong possibility unless we can get ahead of it with variant-targeted booster shots for those who will use them. That's just the way pandemics have been in the past, and predictably, now. We thought we would be at 70%+ by now but that hasn't happened. The theoretical 85% vaccinated needed for herd immunity has now been pushed out to mid June 2022 at current vaccination rates so lots more work to get there.

All of the above in my Professional opinion as a retired physician. References:

https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/...vid-cases.html
https://www.npr.org/sections/health-...-in-your-state

You'll certainly see Linn's vintage bike collection on the walls of the restaurant inside.
Here's one of Aaron's house creations: Tri-tip sandwich done right. Homemade and grown by Linn’s farms peppers and cucumbers. Sweet potato fries, homemade dipping sauce and salsa! Bbq sauce on request!

Yummy!!

As great and nostalgic as it was in 2015-2018, there were still many many hurdles and difficulties for Wes and his team. Wes is no longer involved and may not even be much in the area due to other issues he must attend to, AFAIK. Internal Eroica management is mostly unknown to us except for a couple of contacts that @Kabuki12 and a few others have emailed (somewhat generically). Whether or not California is way unfriendlier or not is immaterial, the event is in California and is subject to the laws, regulations, liabilities, and organizational / logistical issues that are present. Those same issues to one degree or another exist in most states. It is telling that despite some interest in some quarters, there have been no credible proposals that I have heard about any other US sites for sister C&V events like this, especially when we are talking about 500+ riders or more.

I don't know how many participants there are for modern biking events, but for 2021, Gran Fondo, Century/Double Century rides together, there are 405 rides nationwide in the US. Of these, 97 events were in California, fully 24% of the total! If we include Gravel Fondos alone, US 359 events total, 25 in California or about 7% of the total. In some areas of course, these events were postponed, or held virtually or on self honor system for miles done. As you may guess, year round weather conditions in California allow for riding events year round and with California's largest in US population of 39+Million people, the ridership and interest is pretty large. So these larger organized events certainly can and do happen in California, despite whatever requirements may need to be met.

Examples:
The San Diego Gran Fondo for instance is slated for 500-2000 riders. https://www.granfondoguide.com/Event...ondo-San-Diego
Tour de Big Bear in the San Gabriel Mountains was for 2000-5000 riders!! https://www.granfondoguide.com/Event...ur-de-big-bear
The Grand Fondo Pacifico at Laguna Seca Raceway/Monterey/Salinas is for 500-2000 riders. https://www.granfondoguide.com/Event...fondo-pacifico

Of course, the above has all local primary support and organization, and importantly, local community and organizer support who have done this for years, so they already have much experience navigating what is needed to put on a first class event.
All data from this site: https://www.granfondoguide.com/

I do agree with you about how poorly the Eroica organizer team has communicated at least publicly. Trying to do this from afar internationally presents its own challenges and issues, least of which is managing online and physical logistics. As with many other events of all types, the hits taken during 2020 and 2021 with events cancelled and revenue curtailed, keeping paid employees is challenging, and keeping drive and spirit even harder. If these events are to be financially stable and sustainable, something previous Eroica California's had difficulty with, events have to happen and we know this event has been derailed 2-3 times through other external factors. I absolutely agree that the goodwill factor is being strained to the limit and a lot more is going to have to go right, in California, on Covid, and with the organizers for the event to even happen and happen well. Even though April 29-May 1, 2022 is literally 8 full months out now, it is very murky that the pandemic will be sufficiently under control in the US generally and California specifically to put the event on. Currently much worse in many other parts of the US though so no alternate sites have ever been proposed or planned.

Most of us C&V'ers could ride in other general rides as noted above (Gran Fondo's and the like) but we'd be steel needles (pun intended) in a haystack sea of Carbon Fiber at virtually all of the events. Not much commonality there although I'm sure the camaraderie might still exist (separately from the age issue).

See my thoughts about Wes above. Suffice it to say, the event and Wes have moved on, not that there still isn't desire on Wes' part to want Eroica California to succeed with or without him. EC is just going to have to find ways to get this held and reboot.

@iab That is precisely the issue that I see. Its all well and good for internet jockeys like all of us here to be disappointed and complain, we've all done our share and with good reason. But how can we or will we then step up to make a difference. At the potential cost of my relationships, I've strongly considered volunteering to help organize whatever aspects of the event I can help with given I'm still 200+ miles and 5+ hours driving time away. Would local Cambria folks who are helping in some way be receptive to outside help or volunteers? Can the Eroica Italy organizers be receptive to on the ground or afar US based help in any way? And will there be anyone here in the US who wants to help but also able to deal with any culture clash or chain of command issues for the people at Eroica who actually "own" the event?

I hope the answers to the above can be substantially YES because achievements are always going to be done by people who are driven and have the will (and the favorable circumstances) to get it done, one way or another. That's just fact and history. The issue for many is does this start with hiring California based organizers who already have experience and a track record ($$$ issue though), or work with volunteers and volunteer organizers with some experience and deal with growing pains, again? The romantic ideals of a vintage community of riders and organizers having a fun time meets reality when all of us adults expect much more than just the ride route marked out and some food support, all understandable for a paid event with moderate to high expectations, especially in relationship to other Eroica events.

So would Bike Forums members or CR members somehow be willing or able to help out in some way, and would that help be welcomed or used, prior to and during the event? Some would say its not our issue, business, or problem, and I get that. But if this event particular to our Vintage steel niche is to survive, we may need to help it along if we can.

keithdunlop

Now I'm concerned about other CA mass events. I'm riding gravel at Sea Otter in October - anyone else doing Sea Otter?

Oldairhead 

Thanks for the quote. I do realize that Wes is no longer involved, having ridden in every one of the CA events save one (which I worked), as well as displaying a vintage vehicle in the park at Paso. I have had more that a few conversations with Wes though I make no claim to more than being an aquaintance and supporter. I believe that my point was (if poorly stated) that Eroica CA is a ship without a captain at this point, which along with Covid is part of the reason it seems to be floundering. I do believe that the event either is or will be in trouble for the future since people will remember the way these past two events were handled by the organizers (post Wes). That responsibility is on the owners and not the subsequent event directors which they brought on, who were operating under the serious constraints imposed by their superiors.

As far as other cycling events in CA, I have attended many of those which you referenced, being a native Californian (Hollywood). Many of the events I have ridden in the past are no longer held due to the ever increasing level of regulation in the state. Even the States premier event, the Tour of California has been cancelled and most believe that it will not return. The events which remain (for the most part) have had to partner with charities and become "fundraisers" which provides a layer of insulation between the organizers and excessive regulation. Permits, insurance and dealing with every local jurisdiction that an event passes through create an almost insurmountable burden for the organizers. California has perhaps the highest hurdle for Event Directors to overcome.

I don't come to this conversation without personal experience in this area. I was Event Director for 5 years for a 500 rider event in a neighboring state. That is comparable to Eroica CA in size! Even in a friendlier venue the obstacles that we had to overcome would be shocking to the average participant. Factor in the litigious nature of the state and other issues and it is clear that most people do not have a clue as to what is required to put on an event, let alone in a state that is ever more hostile to such activity. I stand by my hunch that in a few short years EC will be no more, much to my disappointment.

mech986 

As of Sept. 1, 2021 6:30pm PDT, the Eroica California Facebook page hasn’t been updated with the announcement. Most of you here and on CR have already received the email announcement. So far, no updates or announcements on the Instagram page (probably need to create a graphic), or the Eroica California website - web area needs a lot of work.

Now a full 8 months to practice getting in and out of the clips. Hope you don't fall too much.

Let us know who the candidates are.

Yeah, hoping against hope against the inevitable considering the trends. I really thought we had a decent chance if the results from May-June 2021 had held. But then reopenings and Delta variant becoming prevalent torpedoed that all over.

EB, hope your paint dries soon and you can get her back for the build she deserves.

repechage

C&V rides are always “loose”
Safer that way.

I did trust Baylis.
some pleasant riders are just downright dangerous.

Classtime 

The BWR California was in July with 900 men and another 100 women. I've ridden it a few times on my KOF Bike with 25s and will be putting it on my calendar again for next spring. It predates gravel and is modeled on the spring classics. A perfect venue for a C&V insugency. The BWR brand has grown and there is a "race" near you. https://belgianwaffleride.bike/

mech986 

I agree with all your points. I think the international participation was wider than just the Italian contingent, plenty of French, British, Japanese, Canadian, even a few Germans riders came. I'd sure love to see a world and US map analysis of where riders hailed from. That's the kind of data stuff I wish events would share (anonymized of course) along with year, make and models of bikes ridden plus riders ages sorted alphabetically or numerically. Then we could really see how our community is truly built in these events. I'd even do the analysis if given a raw and redacted data dump.

That's a great idea. Here's an easy 3 day ride:
Day 1 - Breakfast in Cambria 7:00-8:30, morning push off by 9:00am Cambria to Piedras Blancas for wonderful views, selfies, quick stop, and back to Elephant Seal Vista point and San Simeon by 11;30,
lunch in San Simeon plus some local sights till 1:30. Too much food?
Leave San Simion by 2:00 and ride to Cayucos - ~47-49 miles, or further to Morro Bay for total of 53 miles. Dinner at either Cayucos or Morro Bay, camp out on beaches or state parks (for you rustics, motels for others)

Day 2 - Breakfast in Cayucos or Morro Bay, 7-8:30, then push off by 9:00am via Eroica Heroic route - meet up at Old Reservoir Road, then climb to Santa Rita Summit, stop, then on to Templeton (20 miles). Could do lunch in Templeton or push on to Olea Farms (another 6 miles) or Cass Winery (another 17 miles past Olea), total 53+ miles Could consider camping or staying at Cass winery, they now have modern accommodations, a Cafe, and activities including archery, Horseback riding, and multiple activities with costs. This isn't your Cino out in the boonies ride. But certainly could do it for less or find a place to camp and prepare food personally. Could also consider taking in the Sensorio Art Installation near the Paso Robles Airport, an hour's ride and 11 miles with climb during the evening but a very dark ride back so would need lights. Could be a little iffy on safety.

Day 3 - Self-made breakfast or at Cass, leave by 8:00am, Climb the hill behind Cass, then retake the Eroica Heroic route, either North (9 miles) or Linne Road (13 miles) to Warbird Museum for a quick stop, then on to Kiler Canyon Summit (20-30 miles from Cass depending on route, then Ride on to Halter Ranch (another 7 miles, 27-36 miles), stop there for lunch (need to set this up with them for space and provide own food prep?), otherwise they only sell wine. Then on to Cypress mountain summit challenge, rest stop at the summit or consider a more roundabout route with not as much climb. Either way, then down to Santa Rosa Creek road to Linn's Farm and then Cambria as your final destination. Today's total 52-60 miles and a lot of tough climbing. A quick shower, then a nice dinner at Linn's Restaurant or other suitable local establishments, plus desserts and bench racing. Add in a couple more days of local sightseeing and general relaxation in Cambria or Paso.

[QUOTE=SwimmerMike;22211137]No Options for travel to the coast like Santa Cruz, Monterey, or Central Coast or does the dampness prove bothersome? The AQ was bad there too? I would think the air is decent there.

Yes, even Oregon itself wasn't exempt from smoke, this year has been pretty rough for wildfires. 15 fires currently active in California, 7 in Oregon, 15 in Washington. Crazy!

mech986 

Understood and appreciate your expanded perspective. Hope springs eternal meets reality, we'll see if it can be done.

Wow, those are hardcore rides!

repechage

Fire season is now year round in California with the drought.

bikingshearer 

Your idea of "easy" is very different than my idea of "easy." Just sayin'

Classtime 

The BWR has a short and a shorter ride with some dirt and climbing in each, great pre and post ride meals, and a mid ride Margarita Oasis. Something for everyone.

mech986 

So who is still going down if just to spend the weekend in Cambria and get in a few days away? I know Joe is still going to San Simeon, a few from Portland (Gugie?) and others to do a FauxRoica or NoRoica ride in the area?

gugie 

Tourica starts Monday, 9/13 with 5 riders. We were 6, but @davester had a very unfortunate accident at Cino and broke his collarbone! Here's our credit card tour route:



After that, FauxRoica of sorts in Cambria Sunday.

keithdunlop

Is anyone interested in a meetup in Cambria on Sunday for a ride up the coast to the lighthouse? The lighthouse gate will be closed, but my friend and I still plan on taking out the C&V bikes and cruising up the coast. Interested riders could meet at VeloCambria in the morning?

PM me or text to (805) 320-1127.

Manny66 

I will be out there that weekend. I'll gladly meet up with you guys for a cruise up to the lighthouse.

This photo was taken the weekend of the First Canceled L'Eroica in front of Velo Cambria. It was still in the process of being opened so it will be cool to see the place up and running.

gugie 

Maybe we should consider organizing rides for each of the "traditional" routes for those wanting to live Eroica as if it weren't cancelled. Call 'em a route leader if you will.
@keithdunlop seems to have the up and down the coast ride nailed and can organize that one?
Heroic (maximum suffering) route?
Heroic without the fries (aka Coastal Route, no Olema Ranch)
Two climb route?

Erzulis Boat 

Not the best pics, but here is my 2021 Eroica bike. Just buttoned it up a few minutes ago.

keithdunlop

In case anyone missed it, VeloCambria is hosting a faux Eroica ride next weekend -- details here:

​​​​​​https://velocambria.com/faux-eroica/

My buddy and I will still be riding out to the lighthouse this Sunday. I have one other person who expressed interest. Meetup time is 8:30am at VeloCambria.

daka

I have a campsite reserved at San Simeon State Park for the Eroica weekend (Fri -- Mon) that I am not going to use. If interested in it (at no charge) send me a PM.

mech986 

I copied these from the Velo-Cambria link. The Sunday ride looks fun but I’m not that fast nor can climb fast!

Cambria “Faux Eroica” Events

Friday, September 17th 2021

“Ragged Point Ride”
led by Rick Denman

• Start:
  • 8:00 AM
  • Corner of Weymouth and Moonstone Beach Dr.
• Route: up PCH north to Ragged Point and back
• Distance: 43.2 miles
• Registration: Not required. Connect with other riders via VeloCambria social networks:
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Twitter
• Finish: approx. 12:00 PM

Spin Contests

• Start: 4:00 PM
• Prizes!: provided by VeloCambria including VeloCambria Gear
• Food: Mexican buffet during meet & greet
• Mini-Vintage “Campy” Swap Meet – bring your gear
• Location: VeloCambria back-lot, 4056 Burton Dr. Cambria
• Finish: 8:00 PM

Saturday, September 18th 2021

“Lighthouse Ride”
led by Rick Denman

• Start: 8:30 AM-9:00 AM
• Route: VeloCambria bike shop to Piedras Blancas Lighthouse and back
• Distance: 29.8 miles
• Pre-Ride Food: VeloCambria opens at 8:00 AM with complimentary coffee and pastries
• Registration- On Site
• Finish: approx. 11:00 AM

Sunday, September 19th

“Santa Rosa Creek Hammer Ride” w/ Sprint contest
led by Rick Denman

• Start:
  • 8:30-9:00 AM
  • VeloCambria bike shop (4056 Burton Dr. Cambria)
  • Shop opens at 8:00AM w/ complimentary Coffee and Pastries
• Route: Cambria East Village up the old highway, Santa Rosa Creek Rd. up to Highway 46 and back down to Hwy 1 and Cambria
• Distance:
  • Full loop: 32.1 miles
  • Option: peel off at any point on Santa Rosa Creek Rd. back to VeloCambria
• Prizes!: VeloCambria Vintage Merino Wool Jersey
• Registration: On-Site
• Finish: approx. 12:00 PM

• 
  

JoeBass

This really makes me wonder why it's so "difficult" and "expensive" for Eroica to organize a ride when it looks like a local bike shop can throw together a great weekend of riding, seemingly overnight, at no cost to the riders.

keithdunlop

Just an FYI, my friend and I have elected NOT to ride tomorrow, but join the VeloCambria events next weekend instead. We think there'll be more people and more enjoyable as a result. Hope to see many of you next weekend.

merziac

Agreed, however these "shop" rides likely fly under the radar and still expose the shop/others to liability. They surely have a waiver/disclaimer but that won't stop some sue-happy PITA from screwing things up.

So jealous, makes me want to fly down and ride.

Oldairhead 

Just try and get a permit for a 500+ rider event in California using public roads or facilities and it will become clear as to the reasons why. Events that "fly under the radar" can and do happen but often a great risk of liability for the organizer due to lack of insurance or permits. It's no problem for the rider who only has to show up and ride!