75 Classic Rides Northern California: The Best Road Biking Routes

Bill Oetinger calls Northern California “something approaching cycling paradise.” But, as he says in the introduction to 75 Classic Rides: Northern California, “Even paradise will be a muddled maze if you don’t know your way around it, and that’s where this book comes into play.” this guide is intended for everyone, from novice to expert cyclists. It’s accessible, friendly, and fun, highlighting truly classic rides rated from easy to epic. For Bill, this means wine country loops, Berkeley waterfronts, Santa Cruz mountains, gold Country tours, Sierra epics, and more. think redwood cathedrals and rugged coastlines, grasslands and vineyards――and all along, Bill’s expert advice guiding you down the road.

Out of 75 rides, the majority are doable as one- or two-day outings; ambitious cyclists, however, will find a cross-state route to plan for or dream about, too. Each ride includes the following:

• Difficulty level and distance
• Average time to complete
• Elevation gain and high point
• Best season to ride
• Maps and key resources, including land managers
• Detailed route descriptions and photos
• Easy-to-use mileage log

For 20 years, Bill Oetinger has been the ride director and newsletter editor for the Santa Rosa Cycling Club, one of the larger bike clubs in California. He has organized 25 one-week tours in the United States and Europe. He also has helped manage the Terrible Two Double Century, one of the most challenging one-day rides in America. He lives in Sebastopol, California.