This video is from earlier this year. I just added it to youtube so thought I'd share it. Go ride your bike! [video=youtube;-t1-6x_6KR4]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-t1-6x_6KR4[/video]
Nice vid Thinkfast looks like alot of fun. Where's bell ridge at, how do I get there and how technical is it?
http://www.mountainbikebill.com/BellRidge.htm You could ascend either Trabuco Creek or West Horsethief to get to Main Divide. Those are the quickest ways to pedal up to my knowledge. Mountain Bike Bill: "While I typically refrain from using general characterizations, terms like advanced, expert and black diamond come to mind with this loop." I'd say the "Can't See Bottom" section is the teeth of the trail and all else is not nearly as bad.
Thanks for the info, this is going on my future to do list. Are there any simular not to remote trails I could ride to test my skills before I try this?
Bell Ridge turns off of Los Pinos which starts at the top of Trabuco. If you're not sure where Bell Ridge turns off at, you'll end up going down Los Pinos and the wrong ridge line. Bell has lots of HAB and not very technical aside from Can't See Bottom. Los Pinos is technical towards the bottom and also has lots of ups and downs, but not as steep as the one on Bell.
D, I would reco Los Pinos even though it makes for a long day (up San Juan, left on Main Divide). Firstly, you can scope out the approach to the trail. It cuts right ooff LP a couple dozen yards before the peak summit (rocks marked by a USGS marker). And I would characterize LP as similar riding but not as difficult; not well traveled and a little loose in spots. I think the Joplin suggestion is pretty good and would make for an easier day.
Thanks for all th info every one. I think I'm going to hit joplin for a test run as it is closest to me. though I would like to ride San Juan some day.