Who can forget their first bike ride? The training wheels are off and the road suddenly becomes your friend. You steady yourself, creating the perfect balance, and you realize that the only thing holding you up is a metal bar with two skinny tires. A rush of adrenaline washes over you and you smile. There is no better feeling than this carefree mobile autonomy gained with child-like ease.

Well … it’s not too late to recreate that “Look, Mommy, no hands!” experience. San Clemente is the perfect location for beginners and seasoned riders alike. Equipped with great trails for road biking and mountain biking, there’s even a friendly riding community that is more than ready to take you under their wing.

Local History
The first bit of cycling history starts in 1989 in a local pizza joint with Fred Kutzmarski, Paul Arsenault, John Cuchessi, Gary Nicotra and Jeff Spear. They were a group of cyclists who wanted to start a recreational club for people of all riding levels. Today, the Renegades have grown to include over 100 people. On any given Sunday there is an average of 50 bikers who show up at San Clemente Cyclery on El Camino Real for their ride out.

Before then, there was the San Clemente Velos. They were members of USCF (USA Cycling) and were strictly a road race club. Their organization was all about racing and only held licensed category riders. The Renegades envisioned a more inclusive group of riders and maintain the philosophy that “we welcome everyone and anyone,” says Gary Nicotta.

The real passion for cycling arose when Gary Nicotra began physical training while rehabilitating from a motorcycle accident. John Cuchessi and Gary Nicotra were already friends from surfing the same breaks until Gary got into cycling. He cycled four times a week to gain strong back muscles and little did he know it would become a passion.

Nicotra recalls that their first ride was to Las Pulgas and back, and it seemed like they were riding forever. Now they ride 55 miles every Sunday and it’s a piece of cake. The best part about the Renegades is that they are a very social group, very willing to help any beginner advance to the next level. They start at 8:45 Sunday mornings and ride 55 miles to Camp Pendleton. Mind you, there are groups who stop at Las Pulgs and head back. So don’t be intimidated if you’re uneasy about the long distance on your first try.

Types of Bikes

	Whether you’re starting out slow or looking for a tough workout, there’s a perfect bike for you. Some prefer a Beach Cruiser, perfect for casual riding. As the name implies, they are great for cruising paved paths at the beach or in town. Cruisers have wide tires, wide seats and upright handlebars. They are usually single gear and are designed for comfort rather than speed. They range from $200 and up.
Road bikes range from $500 to over $5,000 depending on the design, material and performance level. They are meant to be used on paved roads and for going fast, for long distances at high speeds. You will have to decide whether you are investing in a bike for recreational or competitive reasons and choose accordingly. The best value is an aluminum frame because it’s light and is less expensive than titanium or carbon fiber.
	Mountain bikes range from about $300 to ….. Unlike a road bike which has skinny tires and a light frame, mountain bikes have wide tires and a stout frame for more durability. They are designed to handle rugged terrain and have a more comfortable riding position.
If you cannot decide whether you prefer paved roads or rugged trails, hybrids are a good option. They are a cross between a road bike and mountain bike with the best features of both. Hybrids have skinnier tires than mountain bikes, giving them the ability to go faster. At the same time, the upright seat and handlebars make it more comfortable for the beginner rider. A new trend in bikes is a Fixed Gear Single Speed bike also known as a Messenger bike. They can be spotted at Starbucks and around town. Some prefer them because they are cheaper, lighter and easier to maintain.

“It’s Like Riding a Bike”
If you’re not into the hardcore rugged trails, a simple cruise at the beach with a friend makes a great workout and for a good time. Who said that exercise couldn’t be fun? Cycling as form of exercise offers several health and life enhancing benefits.
• Cycling is a true aerobic exercise that strengthens the heart without the heavy impact on joints from jogging or running.
• Cycling can be done at any time of the year.
• Cycling is inexpensive.
• Cycling can be a form of commuting to work or for running errands; saving you time, money while incorporating exercise.
• Cycling allows you to enjoy the outdoors and improves your mood.
• Cycling reduces pollution.
• Cycling can help you manage your weight and strengthen muscles

Maps, Trails, and Other Important Stuff
Awesome Talega Mountain Bike Trip (7.07 miles) Mountain Bike
Category: Back Country, Big Climb, Big Climbs, Dirt Roads, Gravel Roads, Scenic, Trail, Very Hilly. This ride starts at the intersection of Avenida Hermosa and Avenida Talega and circles the Talega golf course

San Clemente to Oceanside and Back (57.70 miles) Road Bike
Category: Beach, Low Traffic Area, Rolling Hills. This ride starts at the end of Camino De Los Mares in San Clemente to Oceanside Harbor and back.

San Clemente to Portola Hills
(27.04 Miles) Road Bike, Hybrid
Category: Long Distance, Moderate Climb, Mostly On Bike Paths, Pavement and Sidewalk. This ride starts at El Camino and the 5 fwy, takes the Coast Highway North- bordering Dana Point. Before you reach Monarch Beach, it follows on Niguel Road east toward Laguna Niguel. It takes Alicia up through Laguna Hills into Portola Hills and arriving on Santiago Canyon Road.

San Clemente Cyclery Sunday Ride
(55 miles) Road Bike, Hybrid
Category: Long Distance, Beach scenic, Social ride. This ride is associated with the San Clemente Cyclery and the Renegades. They leave every Sunday from San Clemente Cyclery on S. El Camino Real via Avenida Del Presidente. Fit for all levels.
View maps and other trails at www.mapmyride.com

Cycle Shops
San Clemente houses two cycle shops, one on the north side and the other on the south. Both offer informative and friendly help and will get you connected and motivated for your first ride. b

San Clemente Cyclery
www.sccyclery.com
2801 S. El Camino Real
(949) 492-8890

Cycle Werks
cyclewerks.net
1421 N El Camino Real
(949) 492-5911

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