I rode with the group to Old Sac and back today. There were a lot of
Easy Riders/ Gold Rush bikes, a few trikes, one Screamer, a couple
Rans, and serval other bents. I ride a Sun USX trike with power-
assist.
The ride started with a long downhill to a 4-way stop. Did I mention
that I am a slow rider. By the time I had ridden down to the 4-way
stop there were no riders to be seen. So it was time to increase my
speed to catch-up. I do not mind being the last rider, but being
dropped from the group after 1/3 mile into the ride. I reached down
and pulled the starter chord that brought my Honda engine to life.
Using a combination of engine and human pedalling I increased my
speed to 20 mph. Once I entered the American Bike Trail I kept my
speed at 15 mph. I didn't see any bent riders from our group until
arriving at Old Sac. Sorry, I forgot the eating establishment name,
but it was a nice stop to talk to my fellow riders.
Then it was time to return, and I left earlier than the other riders
to get a head start down the American Bike Trail again. At around
mile 8 guess who passed me like I was standing still? All the bent
riders. Oh well, someday I will be a stronger rider, but at least I
am riding and really enjoying the wind in the face, the heavy
breathing, sweating like a dog, but really enjoying being out doors.
I will be at the Nov ride? YES! I can not begin to tell you how
much fun it was. I was not a fast rider, but I got to see the tree
leaves turning color, The smiles on other bicyclist faces when I
waved at them and said Hi. To me this was a touch of heaven.
So if you are thinking of riding with this group in Nov, but are
scared that you ride too slow. I will be there and we can ride
together and join the group in Old Sac. Just remember I ride slow.

Mike
Rocklin