Don’t Fall!!
by zach on December 4th, 2007
Rob and I set out from the Las Virgines Trail Head and quickly began to discuss which route to take. He proposed a few options, one of which contained a gnarly section of single track and led us to the backside of a long climb that we often do called “The Tower Climb”. A couple of rides previous he had pointed this section out from a high ridge we were on and explained how it had become nearly unrideable due to massive rains and flooding. Remembering this conversation, we both opted to ride it.
The single track started right near bell canyon road. When we reached the start of it, I waited for Rob to lead the way but with a big smile Rob said “Go on ahead, I don’t know this track any better than you do”. We started down the track and it was nearly instantly challenging. Lots of river rocks in the trail and some really deep ruts to hop over. After about 2 minutes we came to a long section that had been almost completely washed out. The trail was about 2 feet wide and sat next to about a 12 foot drop off into a river bed. You would NOT want to biff it here! Half way through I stopped and demanded that Rob take a picture.
As we made our way through this single track, it became more challenging as the uphills were steep and loose. It was very apparent that someone had come through and done some serious maintenance on the trail. Rob pointed out a dip that had been completely filled in with dirt and rocks and would have been a total get off your bike and hike around spot otherwise.
We made our way up the backside of the tower climb and hit the “Gas pipe ” single track section to get back. One or both of us always eats shit on this section and this time it was me. Rob nailed the whole damn thing but had pulled out of his pedals while negotiating a particularly tricky section. Just as I began to chuckle at him, I hit a rock and went straight over my handle bars leaving the bike in my dust. Somehow I only sustained a scraped up elbow and no damage to my ride. Phew!!
This is a ride that I am eager to repeat. One could really build up their technical skills here. What a blast!!
Check out these photos that Rob took on a recent road ride with his buddy Youssef. The last two fires have done a real number on Malibu!
December 5th, 2007 at 8:42 am
is that a, no, is it? a body down there?……
December 5th, 2007 at 11:51 am
looks like a fun ride… a little nerve racking but fun i am sure.