Newcomer Bike Ride - Griffith Park 10/20/25 miles

The LA Wheelmen http://www.lawheelmen.org/ “Newcomers’ Ride” is not only for beginners but also for those interested in expanding their horizons in terms of routes, learning to ride in groups, or just getting to know bike-friendly LA routes.

This month’s Newcomer Ride returns to the heart of the city in Griffith Park and adjacent neighborhoods. It's a newly developed route that was pre-ridden by volunteers to eliminate surprises.

We have moved the start/finish to the LA Zoo Parking lot and have 3 (count them, three!) routes of varying lengths and difficulty. For the first time we will have a beginner-level flat ride of approximately 10 miles. It follows the newly renovated but bumpy LA River Bike Path that shields cyclists from vehicular traffic but exposes the beauty and wildlife of the restored Los Angeles River. Architectural bridges span many sections of the path and make for great photo ops. Several public parks, restaurants and even a bike shop are adjacent to the bike path.

Part two is a two-wheel studio overview passing Warner Bros, The Burbank Studios, ABC, Disney Studios, Disney Animation, Bette Davis Picnic Area, Disney Imagineering and Dreamworks. This section is relatively flat and takes advantage of bike lanes on city streets.

After the nominal ride of about 20 miles, we have an extended ride that is a little longer and involves a short but serious climb (but an exhilarating and fast decent) . Each of the 3 routes will be ridden in a no-drop fashion. You can ride 1, 2 or all 3; as each segment returns to the parking lot so you can pick and choose.

Want to join social rides but afraid to join a group ride because will it be too fast or too far? Will it be too slow or too short? This Newcomer ride will address all these issues.

Cue sheet and Map (8 pages):
http://www.bfk.com/wheelmen/Newc_Studio_Tour_Plus_Integrated_route_maps.pdf

Route maps:

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38482110
This map covers both the 10 mi and 25 mi routes.

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38482734
This map covers both the 10 and 21 mile routes.

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/38490692
This map covers the 10 mile, 21 mile, and 26 mile routes. This 26 mile route does the climb in the reverse (or easier) direction from the 25 mile route but has a steeper downhill for adrenaline junkies.

Cue sheet: (step by step route guide):
10/21/26 miles combined - http://www.bfk.com/wheelmen/Newc_Studio_Tour_Plus_Integrated_route.pdf

If you have never been on the LA River Bike Trail here is a preview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IDBgRz3jwMU

Start: Los Angeles Zoo Parking Lot, Zoo Drive, Griffith Park. North End - near metal gate / trash bins - See map in photo for precise location.

Parking: Normally free in the Zoo Parking Lot. Do not use/pay for the "preferred" parking. Or you can ride from home.

Restrooms: Porta potties 100 yards from start - restrooms at first rest stop 5 miles from start.

LA Firecracker Rider: The 20 mile version of this ride will qualify for your virtual ride. https://firecracker10k.org/bike

Requirements:
You should be comfortable completing a 10 mile ride at a 10-12 mile per hour pace. A positive attitude, sufficient water, snacks, a spare innertube and a bike in good mechanical condition. Helmets are mandatory. Lycra is optional.

Waiver: http://www.bfk.com/wheelmen/wheelmenwaiver.pdf
Sign up to this event constitute participant's agreement to release all liability against organizers/sponsors of this event.

Ebike? - OK if it is Class 1 or 3 and you keep a pace consistent with the group.

Guests? - OK - Bring them along or better yet have them sign up.

Questions? - Post in the comments section.

Rain Cancels