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"I still feel that variable gears are only for people over forty-five. Isn't it better to triumph by the strength of your muscles than by the artifice of a derailleur? We are getting soft...As for me, give me a fixed gear!" - Henri Desgrange, L'Equipe article of 1902

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to be a member to participate?

There are currently no membership requirements other than wearing a helmet and submitting a signed Recyclers Participation, Release and Indemnity Agreement. Please print, sign, and give it to the ride leader.

When do your rides start?

The Recyclers meet at 8:00 AM for an 8:15 roll out. For most rides, there is an early bird start which adds about 20 miles to the regular ride. Early bird starts are announced in the weekly ride reminder email and have a 7:00 AM meet-up with a 7:15 start.

What is the ride vibe?

We are a social group with varying levels of abilities. We keep the group together when needed and have plenty of break out opportunities for stronger riders. To help prevent riders from getting dropped, we regroup after climbs and at major turns. Rides include a coffee stop on the second half of the ride.

What skills are expected to participate in Recyclers rides?

• You should be capable of doing a 33 mile ride (with some climbs) in about 2.5 hours.
• You should be able to change a flat and fix minor bike issues such as fixing a dropped chain, adjusting your derailleur, and adjusting your brakes. (Others are willing to assist, it's just good to be self sufficient.)
• You should be able to find your way if you get separated from the group. We recommend having a route slip in your possession or having the route downloaded to your bicycle computer.

How can I preview a ride?

All the rides on this site have a link to a route map and route slip. You can download a route file (e.g. GPX) and transfer to your bicycle computer to help you find your way.

Do you always stick to the planned route?

Nope. Most of the time, we stick to the planned route. Sometimes, we stick with the overall route, but try alternate segments in order to explore or avoid hazards. On some routes such as the Mount Soledad Wildcard and Choose Your Poison rides, there are various decision points during the ride that affect the final route we take. In all cases, we have regroups to avoid dropping riders.

What is Sauntering Sunday?

The first Sunday of each month is Sauntering Sunday. It's an easier ride, mostly flat, and a good time for new people to join the group to find out if they like riding with the Recyclers.

Disclaimer: Club (Recyclers) rides typically range from between 30 and 50 miles at an average speed of approximately 15 MPH. To the best of our ability, we try to keep the group together during rides by making route instructions available prior to the ride and by regrouping at various points along the ride. Routes are subject to change without notice. Riders are responsible for their own actions and ensuring that they can find their way if they become separated from the group. Riders under the age of 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. The club makes no representations as to safety; road, traffic, animal, or weather conditions; level of difficulty; accuracy of route descriptions; or availability of provisions and/or facilities on routes provided for club rides.