Cycle through bike hot spots
For those who abide by the mantra “two wheels good, four wheels bad,” the world isn’t always a friendly place. But despite the occasional inconvenience, there are many places that embrace bicycle culture and the notion of leaving cars behind. Head for the bike lane to immerse yourself in these two-wheeled treats for casual cyclists and mountain bike jocks alike.
— Jill K. Robinson, travel@sfchronicle.com 1. Hopworks BikeBar, Portland, Ore. With a prime spot on the North Williams “bike highway,” this bar caters to Portland’s bike culture. A 40-frame bike canopy created by the Oregon Bike Constructors Association hovers over the bar, 75 bike parking spaces and a water-bottle filler are at the entry, and two Plug-Out energygenerating bicycles help contribute to the grid. Oh, and there’s tasty local beer. 3947 N. Williams Ave., (503) 287-6258, www.hopworksbeer.com /general-info/bikebar. 2. Home Depot Center Velodrome, Carson (Los Angeles County) 3 The largest indoor velodrome in the United States, the Home Depot Center Velodrome is part of the U.S. Olympic training centers. Events here range from state to national and world championships. But it’s not only a place for the pros; youth, beginner, intermediate and advanced training programs are also available on the indoor, wood bicycle-racing track. 18400 Avalon Blvd., (310) 630-2000, www. homedepotcenter.com. 3. Flume Trail, Lake Tahoe Bicycling through your neighborhood will never be the same after you ride on the Flume Trail. One of Lake Tahoe’s best mountain bike rides, the trail’s beautiful views help take your mind off the climb. Start at Spooner Lake in Lake Tahoe Nevada State Park, and end up 13 miles later at the intersection of Tunnel Creek Road and Highway 28. (775) 831-0494, parks.nv.gov/parks/marlette-hobart-backcountry. 4. United States Bicycling Hall of Fame, Davis Since 1987, the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame has honored outstanding American cyclists. With 132 inductees and a collection of artifacts from more than 100 years of U.S. cycling history, the Hall of Fame makes its home in Davis — known widely as a bicycle-friendly community. Get out your autograph book, because inductees make regular appearances at events. 303 3rd St., (530) 341-3263, www.usbhof.org. 5. Wine Country Bikes, Healdsburg Get a little cycling in with your wine tasting in Sonoma or Napa County with this touring company. Cyclists can dip their toes in with rentals or a single-day tour, or jump in with a multiday tour. Just remember, tasting in moderation will keep you in the saddle. 61 Front St., (707) 473-0610, www.winecountrybikes.com.