Gearing up for Sunday epic from Dudleys - Down Banner, Up Montezuma, Mesa Grande

[karlos]

Sunday hopefuls - Weather forecast right now couldn't be better. Sunny with 60's in Julian and Ranchita and only 80 in Borrego Springs, with wind less than 10 mph. Keep your fingers crossed that we managed to pick a great weekend. Sean B informed me that the Ranchita store is now closed, though we can still regroup at the base of the Yetti  . So, plan on stocking up a little more at the Borrego market. We may also make a quick stop at Henshaw to make sure everyone stays topped up.

If you've wondered about this ride and never done it, this might be a great time to check it out (hint: bring some low gears). It's one of my favorites.
Karl

[wbturek@yahoo.com]

I'm thinking about trying this option: http://ridewithgps.com/routes/11207478. It starts out the same, but swings down San Felipe Road after Ranchita (avoiding 79 and 76), then climbs back up the Banner Grade, something that I have never done. It seems like I was just on Mesa Grande, and variety is (supposedly) the spice of life.

[karlos]

I love the climb back up Banner grade as well. Let's offer this option and either split in two,  or stick together with the majority. Good idea, Bill. I hate fighting the RVs on that 5 mile stretch of 79.

[Eric Axford]

Another version that I like though requires more driving to the start is to start at Christmas Circle and get Montezuma as the 1st climb. Then essentially a 20 mile downhill finish except for the Yaqui Pass bump.

[Robert Abraham]

That was a great ride. I know some of you took photos, so when do we get to see them?

[Nigel Rodgers]

Hi Robert
Here is a link to the instructions to access Box
http://www.northcountycycleclub.com/smf/index.php?topic=39.msg4401#msg4401
The file is Borrego  Montezuma

[karlos]

Thanks for uploading those photos, Nigel!
I created a separate folder in the NCCC Photo Gallery. If any one else has any photos from that day, please shoot them to me and I'll add them in.
Karl