Foxy's Falll Classic - Davis

[SadieKate]

WHAT?

That's insane that they couldn't keep the store open. The cafe, which was an exercise in faith anyway, I could understand, but not the store.

[Bike Goddess]

Yeah, store closed (we had hoped for a summer opening but alas that didn't happen). I don't know about the bathrooms- last time we asked they didn't have them at the gas station.

I've also done this route many times (both directions) and will say that I think it is easier going this way. Cardiac Hill is a bit steeper coming from the other direction coupled with the fact that you have already done some climbing from Lake Solano to the dam.

Gordon Valley should be beautiful- fall colors in there are quite spectacular. After you turn onto Wooden Valley it's 4.5 miles to the school and another mile or so to the junction where you turn and start a good climb. They have fixed the road and it has a nice surface.

When you get to Moskovite corner and turn right you will be following the old Amgen tour route. This year they will do that part of the route in the reverse direction coming from Davis on their way to Santa Rosa.

If you see any yellow jerseys it's probably my club as we ride this century every year. (Benicia bike club) They are a fr'endly group so feel free to say hello (they might even have argyle socks on!).

Looks like you'll have cooler temps and (yes indeed) some SW wind from Davis through Fairfield. Once you get past Mankas Corner and turn into Gordon Valley it should be a bit less windy. (If you need to stop for food or bathroom- Vezer Vineyard is at Mankas Corner- bathrooms and great coffee, etc.)

Looking forward to a ride report!

[RolliePollie]

Thanks everyone, for all the awesome info! It's great to have a little preview of the route. I'm not so worried about the climbing as I am about the distance. And actually, I'm looking forward to some flat riding...that will be exciting and different for me since there is nothing flat up here in the foothills!

So far, the Nat'l Weather Service website is not predicting gale force winds, so I'm hopeful. The course opens at 7 am...I plan to be ready to go by 6:55! I'm also really hoping I can latch on to a group here and there, so I'll be on the lookout for yellow jerseys and argyle socks!

[SadieKate]

Since you are not used to long distances on freakingly flat roads, remember to stand up regularly. Pedal a few strokes standing. Stretch your back, legs, etc. There is an art to managing butt pain when riding extended flat sections.

[jobob]

There is an art to managing butt pain when riding extended flat sections.

It's called owning a Brooks saddle.

[SadieKate]

And yet, I've never been awash in a "sea of chamois butter".

And I'm not really talking about that kind of butt pain. I just hate sitting for long periods of time. Yet, what am I doing still here at work?

[jobob]

And yet, I've never been awash in a "sea of chamois butter".

Wizeazzz