The Monthly-Metric has been revived for 2026, but the January version wound up a little short! It was cool and foggy at the start in Orinda, and conditions didn’t really change as we cycled to Lafayette then over Reliz Valley Rd to Martinez. Moreover, there has been utility work on Reliz Valley Rd and the usual smooth and speedy descent, was instead a bumpy search for smooth pavement. Reaching Martinez, we warmed up with coffee and pastries at States Coffee. The planned route continued along the Carquinez Scenic Byway where the cold (45 deg) and fog persisted. Since we are an adaptable and resourceful group, we contemplated a alternative return route. Turns out that one of us (Gary) had never biked over the Bears, so we opted to head for Pig Farm hill and the Bears (Bear Creek Road). This turned out to be and excellent decision, as this route was fog free, the hills were green and the temperature was a balmy 54 degrees and climbing!
We ended up with 39 miles and and 3100 ft of ascent, so we have a bit to make up of future metrics!
We observed two very large pigs on Pig Farm hill. At first glance I really thought that the black and white one was a cow, but then its bigger partner appeared for the photo op.
A few of us stopped at the top of PAPA bear to honor Gary, resplendent in his VeloRaptor jacket, on his maiden trip over the Bears.
Returning to Orinda, a few of us enjoyed a great lunch at Cafe Teatro and recounted our adventures!