RECAP: BONC Trail Day at Hirschman's

I am always impressed with the skill that BONC volunteers bring to local trail projects. We have some serious talent within our ranks and it was on display Saturday at Hirschman's Trail.

About 15 of us rebuilt the first three switchbacks on the northwest end of the trail. We increased the radius of these turns such that they are more navigable and enjoyable to cyclists. Be sure to check it out. We built berms by excavating the uphill side and installing rock cribbing on the downhill side. The soil was almost perfect, though the rocks were just as heavy as always :-)

Additionally, Bill Haire and Terry Hundemer laid gravel at both approaches to a bridge where the soil had settled.

A big thank you to Bill Haire and the Land Trust for supporting this effort. My hope is that this is just the first of many BONC trail days at Hirschman's where we do similar work. We ride this trail frequently and it feels great to help improve such an important community asset so close to home.

Pictures.

Trails on a Different Kind of Bike

Yesterday, I poked around on local Grass Valley trails on my first ride ever on a cyclocross bike. I bought this ride some time ago, but the amazing weather kept me riding my mountain bikes thus far this winter.

I kept my expectations in check. I've logged countless hours on both road and mountain bikes, but had no idea how this contraption would fare on either the road or trail. On pavement, it performed exactly like a road rig: fast, efficient and smooth.

On the trail... well, it was strange. It worked much better than I expected, providing great traction and steering. On the technical sections, not some much. But I think this is the point of a cross bike on trails: it makes sections we might find unremarkable on a mountain bike challenging, even very challenging. Thing is, I can't rip on a rocky section with 5" of comfy suspension. I have to rely on what skills and tenacity I have.

This bike makes a worthy addition to my quiver. Like my singlespeed, it isn't an every day ride, but something I pull out when I want to push myself. Soon I plan to explore many of the endless fireroads we are blessed with in Nevada County. Want to join me?

Auburn Gala Ride - 2/4

Join BONC and FATRAC as we ride the Forest Hill Divide loop at Auburn State Rec Area! This route features some of the great singletrack FATRAC has built and maintained for many years. No Rider Left Behind! Everyone from racers to beginners are welcome.

Meet Saturday 2/4 @ 10AM at the trailhead parking off Foresthill Road near Drivers Flat. Map. Hope you can join us!

Grouse Ridge 2012 - Save the Date!

BONC and IMBA will host a BIG trail event at Grouse Ridge on September 15-16th. We hope draw a big crowd of volunteers to improve this outstanding trail system. Objectives include:

Taking out ALL of the downed trees blocking important trails

Re-route of the Lindsey Lakes Trail

Implementing water drainage features and more

Of course there will be riding and hiking as well! Do you love Grouse? Want to learn the amazing trails in this GORGEOUS area? Please plan on joining us on 9/15 - 9/16!

Hirschman Trail Day - Sat 1/28

Volunteer with BONC as we improve sections of the Hirschman Trail. We will build some features to help make this important community trail more cycling friendly. Free beer and hot coffee for participants. Waiver signature required. Meet @ Indian Flat Road @ 10AM. Map.

In case of inclement weather, please check 530.205.DIRT or this forum in case we need to reschedule.

Want to support these BONC events and endeavors? Become a member today!

Donating to NU Miners

Donating bike clothing and equipment to the NU Miners mountain bike team is easy, benefits our aspiring young athletes and makes you feel all warm and fuzzy inside. I learned as much today as I handed off five MTB jerseys and a new pair of Peal Izumi shoes to Sam Raymond, one of the dedicated Miner's coaches.

Please consider donating such materials to this great youth organization. Here is an related article in the BONC October newsletter:

http://bonc.org/newsletter_10-11.html

Trail Events for January

BONC is hosting some great events this month: 

GALA RIDE - Saturday 1/7/12
Join us as we ride Pioneer and perhaps Burlington Ridge in this crazy warm weather. No Rider Left Behind. Everyone from slow pokes to racers are welcome; we'll break up groups based on ability. Free beer and hot coffee for participants. Waiver and helmet required. Meet @ the Old 5 Mile House at 1OAM. Come ride with us!

BONC GATHERING - Sunday 1/15/12
Our featured speaker will be an archeologist from the USFS. Participate in the future of mountain biking in Nevada County! Meet at the Old 5 Mile House at 6:30PM

HIRSCHMAN TRAIL DAY - Saturday, 1/28/12
Volunteer with us as we improve sections of the Hirschman Trail. We will build some berms and make this important community trail more cycling friendly. Free beer and hot coffee for participants. Waiver required. Meet @ Indian Flat Road @ 10AM. Map.

Want to support the BONC events and endeavors? Become a member today!

BONC News - January 2012

The latest BONC newsletter is now online. Be sure to check it out!