It was a small group today, only 5 and we started out from Westlake Swim & Tennis Club instead of the usual fancy CLU pool, but the weather was far more cooperative. It was a nice change from the last couple of weeks of crazy wind and 100% humidity.
We rode through Hidden Valley, out Petrero, along Los Posas, Down PCH, Up Encinal and down Decker back to the Swim and Tennis Club.
I like Encinal for both descending and climbing. It’s got a nice steady grade and you can get into a rhythm going up, and because none of the turns are sharp, on the way down you can work the whole way. Pedaling downhill with descent wattage, maintaining a steady effort is challenging. One of the things that I can only do when I’m in shape. Add a couple of people to make a pace-line and it’s really fun. There is nothing like going fast to put a smile on your face.