Century ride to Los Angeles

Determined to make it to Los Angeles in time for Samir to prep for his interview, we raced all yesterday from Santa Barbara to Santa Monica. Charan had taken our touring bags ahead, and other than occasional stops to rest and sit on the sand, we flew down the coastline. We averaged 15 mph over 110 miles. I am surprised the number is so low, as every time I glanced at my computer, my speed hovered around 20 mph. For the last 25 miles through Malibu, Samir and I gunned it. He drafted behind me as we whizzed along the famous shoreline at speeds of around 30 mph. I hit 42 on a downhill.

Malibu is a funny place. There are more Range Rovers than houses.



Camilo and Lukas were pretty exhausted by mile fifty. After all, we did ride a long long way loaded the day before. Over the trip, all humor has devolved into sarcasm. Consequently, it is hard to take Lukas and Camilo's complaints seriously. We pushed onward, temporarily frustrated at having spent so long a time with our small group of guys. Of course, I wouldn't have had it any other way.






I decided to end my trip in LA, despite the merciless teasing of Lukas and Camilo (they will ride the 120 miles to San Diego, which apparently separates me from my dignity and manliness, but I know better, as I am sure they do too). Doing so saves my dad six hours driving and saves me $250 in plane tickets to a wedding in Chicago and visiting my brother in Manhattan. So I guess that is it! I have come full circle, back to the same apartment where I had tea over a month ago.

I rode 1,723 miles down the coast. I made new friends for life and forged a strong connection with my new roommate. I gained 10 pounds. I saw spectacular coastline, wildlife, and towns both small and large. What a journey. Thank you for following.

So, anyone up for a bike ride?