David Madfes:  

The AIDS Life Cycle ride, 454 miles fromSan Francisco to Los Angeles, which I completed June 1-7 this year was one of the most fantastic things I have ever done. It is advertised as a life changing experience. I would not go that far, but I am so glad I did it, and will do it again next year. The route takes us through parts of the state one does not see from the freeway, even if one is not the driver. The slow pace allows one to really see the landscape and the people who inhabit and work it. From the farm lands of the Salinas Valley that seem to stretch from horizon to horizon to the small towns that dot the back roads, it is something to experience. All along the route every 4 or 5 miles there are people waving the riders on. Some in costume with signs and balloons, others just sitting in their cars waving out the window, or whole families sitting in camp chairs, probably for hours waving and shouting encouragement. I was blown away by the super organized logistics that make the ride happen. Everything is choreographed to the second. As a Rider all I had to worry about was getting me and my bike to the next stop. I will ride again next year and want to encourage my friends to join me. It will be a great year training...Expand for more