2011-04-21 / Health & Wellness

Riders ready to cruise the Conejo

By Eric A. Taub
Special to the Acorn


LET’S ROLL—Cyclists take part in last year’s Crusin’ the Conejo. 
LEE COLE/Special to the Acorn LET’S ROLL—Cyclists take part in last year’s Crusin’ the Conejo. LEE COLE/Special to the Acorn Some motorists love to drive, but they can’t imagine having the chance to do so at NASCAR. But bicycling enthusiasts have no need to dream.

On April 30, cyclists of any ability will be able to follow in the tire tracks of world-famous riders like Lance Armstrong as they ride the annual Cruisin’ the Conejo bicycling event.

The 27-year-old Cruisin’, which takes riders through some of the most beautiful parts of the Conejo Valley, always sells out. The number of entrants is limited to 2,000.

A series of routes of varying lengths are designed for bicyclists of all abilities, from first-timers to those who would love to shadow the footsteps of cycling’s greatest athletes.

“Cruisin’ the Conejo has become one of Los Angeles’ signature spring athletic events,” said Adam Winer, president of the nonprofit Conejo Valley Cyclists, the ride’s sponsor. “We’ve planned a ride that will appeal to all cyclists, from beginners to kids to the most experienced.”

Winer said the event’s appeal is due to the area’s scenic beauty and rider-friendly bike paths.

The cycling club, which has grown from 70 members to more than 400 in three years, donates all Cruisin’ profits to a variety of charities.

Cyclists can sign up for one of five different rides, from a modest 21-mile run through Hidden Valley, Westlake Village and Thousand Oaks, to more challenging 35-, 62- and 68-mile routes that take riders through a variety of terrain.

The longest route capping the event is an aggressive 101-mile trek up Mulholland Highway, past the famous Rock Store restaurant, down Decker Canyon and into Hidden Valley. Much of this ride follows the same one taken during last year’s final leg of the Tour of California ride.

To encourage young cyclists to join in, a special 12-mile children’s ride is designed for ages 9 through 15 at a reduced fee.

Unlike other competitive rides, the fee for Cruisin’ also includes a barbecue lunch.

For the first time, riders can sign up the day before the event to try out one of 150 bikes provided by manufacturers including BMC, Cannondale, Felt, Giant and Scott.

“We continue to strive to make Cruisin’ the best bicycle ride in Southern California,” Winer said. “In terms of value, beauty, camaraderie and sheer enjoyment for anyone who rides, we think we’re the ones to beat.”

Online reduced- fee registration ends April 28. For more information, go to www.cvcbike.org.

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