Skip to main content
HomeRide Categories

Fastest Paced Rides - 'A' Rides

Our 'A' category rides take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. They usually range between 40-80 miles and are typically 3,000' or more of elevation gain. Average pace is generally 16-20 mph on the flats. There will be minimal short regroups and usually a food/beverage stop at some point during or following the ride. There's generally lot's of climbing on these rides. The A rides are friendly and social rides, not races, but regroups are short and the pace is demanding.


Intermediate Pace - 'B' Rides

Our 'B' category rides take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. They are typically between 25-50 miles and 3,000' or less of elevation gain. Average pace is generally 14-16 mph on the flats. There will be regroups and usually a food/beverage stop at some point during or after the ride. The B rides are friendly and social rides, not races, but the pace can be demanding.


Gentler Pace - 'C' Rides

Our 'C' category rides take place on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.  This group prides itself on encouraging newer riders and enjoys having plenty of time for cafe breaks during the rides. If this describes you, then you'll fit right in! Rides are typically between 25-35 miles and 2,000' or less of elevation gain. Average pace is generally 12-14 mph on the flats. There will be regroup and food/beverage stops. The C group aims to wait for all riders at regroup points. However, all riders must always plan to be self-sufficient!

Gentlest Pace - 'D' Rides

Our 'D' category rides take place on Sundays.  This group is intended for those who have some bike skills but lack the stamina needed for the other rides. Rides are typically between 10-15 miles and 1,000' or less of elevation gain. Average pace is generally 8-10 mph on the flats. There will be regroup and food/beverage stops. The D group is no-drop. However, all riders must always plan to be self-sufficient!

 Off Road Rides

Off-road may include mixed surfaces such as gravel, dirt and/or sand. Off road may include bike paths, forest and service roads, double track and single track. Surface conditions may vary, and can change quickly in just a matter of feet. Bicycles appropriate for off-road cycling include gravel and mountain bikes with appropriate tires specifically intended for the described surface conditions. Class 1 and Class 3 non-throttle e-bikes specifically intended off-road may be allowed (unless noted as restricted, such as the Soquel Demonstration State Forest).

O1

fire or service roads; may have some sand, mud, loose gravel, ruts; Easy hike-a-bike if necessary; suitable for novice or better off-road cyclists. 

O2

fire or service roads; single and/or double track; some sand, mud, loose gravel, rocks, roots, ruts; may have drops up to 6"; Easy hike-a-bike if necessary; suitable for intermediate or better off-road cyclists (not recommended for novice off-road cyclists)

O3

fire or service roads; single and/or double track; expect sand, mud, loose gravel, rocks, roots, ruts; may have steep inclines and descents; may have drops up to 10"; hike-a-bike may be necessary; suitable for intermediate-plus and better off-road cyclists (not recommended for novice off-road cyclists)

 

 

FAQs

  • Q: I'm not a member yet, can I come try a ride with the club?
    A: Guests are welcome!! When you arrive tell the ride leader you are new and get introduced to the rest of the group. If you'd like to come again please JOIN SCCCC.
  • Q: I'm not sure I'm fit enough
  • A: Consider taking our Cycling for Starters classes where you'll increase your distance and skills each week, culminating in joining the one of our Saturdayr C rides.  If you do please let the ride leader know you are new and unsure of your fitness.
  • Q: What kind of bike should I bring?
    A: Your bike must be in good operational condition with with brakes and gears. Road Bikes are recommend and most Hybrid Bikes and possibly even lighter Mountain Bikes (hardtail) are good if they are light enough that you can keep up on them. We do not recommend Cruisers on our rides. Electric assist bicycles are OK but you must fit in with the pace and riding style of the group.