Hi aka_kim -

Thanks for the tip to check the local bike groups - I know of velogirls and valley spokemen, are there others I should look into?

I have tried the Iron Horse/Canal trail - we started in Moraga, down to Olympic through WC, onto Iron Horse, then Canal to Willow Pass, and back - 38 miles (getting lost is a nice way to add miles!). It was a good long distance, and plenty flat (except for the last 2 miles, which were really hot, uphill, and into the wind - arrgghh!) I think an earlier start on that route, and not from Moraga, would be a good ride for me.

I don't know if I'm ready to ride with you guys! I'd like to get more distance and hills (and less of me!) under my belt first!

- Thanks!