GlobeCycle

SoBi is looking to revolutionize bike sharing with mobile app technology. Read more here: http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/bicycle/detail?entry_id=70341&tsp=1

The County of Los Angeles Bicycle Master Plan is in the process of being updated. This project covers all unincorporated areas within Los Angeles County. Public participation is requested; you can read more at: http://lacountybikeplan.org/ .

Complete story at Velonews

I must say the crew working up at Saddle Peak is making progress much quicker than many of the other construction projects I pass in the LA area. The work on Sheuren is wrapping up and is generally open to all traffic. The wide road still needs lane markers and some other work, but it is nearly complete. Construction has started on Saddle Peak Road, at the spot that used to be only one lane near the top. The road is technically closed, but I was able to get through Sunday afternoon.

Riding up Latigo Canyon Road this Sunday, I could hear a car approach me from behind, pull next to me, and shout something. I instantly assumed it was just another road-rage-infused driver, but then I realized the driver was cheering me on! In fact, we chatted for a bit (what a beautiful day, watch out for the motorcycles, etc.) with the lady cruising up Latigo by my side in her SUV. Probably not the safest driving move, but it certainly was a pleasant experience. Too bad most encounters with the four wheel kind are not so nice.

It is supposed to be a beautiful weekend in LA, so get yourself outside! Here are a few tips if your bike has been collecting dust in the garage all winter (not like we have much of a winter in LA). Check your tires - Bicycle tires and tubes are vulnerable to sudden failure if the rubber get brittle. If you bike has been left near a heater or exposed to direct sunlight you may find that the rubber is cracked and brittle. If so, it is time to go to the bike shop and pick up some new tires. A tire with old rubber can bust at any time, and this is usually not something you can fix at the side of the road. Lube it - Treat your bike to some protection from the elements. Lube the chain and also drop some on brake pivot points (keep it off the brake pads!), derailleurs, and anything else that moves on the bike. The lubricant adds a layer of protection that extends the life of your components. Don't add too much, though, as the lubricant will attract dirt and grime. Tighten it - Check ...

There is some major road construction at Saddle Peak in the Santa Monica Mountains. The upper portion of Scheuren Road (~200m) is closed to vehicles, there is some major re-grading going on. I was able to ride on the well-graded dirt road to get through the closure. However, it's not a guarantee that you will always be able to get through, especially if you come through during the week when people are actively working on the road. Saddle Peak is a massively popular spot for cyclists, as it is the nexus for many classic routes like Piuma, Fernwood, Stunt, and Los Flores. So be aware that you may need to adjust your route because of this closure. UPDATE April 4, 2009: The construction crew was on site today during the early afternoon, and they were making sure that no one could get through. This leaves Stunt and Saddle Peaks (Fernwood) as the only two options for ascent/descent when construction workers have the road closed.