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Category Archives: Transportation

Not The Same…

Sans famous Gullwing doors

Word that Mercedes-Benz is producing a roadster version of its nostalgia-inspired gorgeous technological marvel, the SLS, comes as not too much of a surprise. After all, a roadster followed the original 1954 300 SL Gullwing, and automotive history tends to enjoy repeating itself these days.

Going soft overhead, however, quickly eliminates the most distinctive and famous feature of the SLS. This is, of course, the unmistakable doors that open overhead, giving the 1954 redux its one-of-a-kind Gullwing name.

No doubt an amazing feat of technology wrapped in a bold and distinctive shell, the doors are what visually define the SLS’ true character and unmatched place. While countless luxury convertibles exist and compete in all forms, there is only one Gullwing. An SLS roadster is just not the same.

And that’s– likely not just my– opinion.

The Gullwing stands alone, proudly so.

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Posted by Ryan on June 15, 2011 in And That's My Opinion, Cars, Mercedes-Benz

Tags: MBZ SLS, SLS Gullwing, SLS roadster

Sometimes You Win

San Francisco’s mad dash for revenue has recently translated into some overzealous parking enforcers. While they’ve been instructed to write tickets for even the smallest and often invisible infractions, sometimes they go too far. In other words, the “parking police” can be wrong. And when they are, it’s the wrongful ticket recipient’s job to put them in their place.

Such has been my experience over the past three months, finally ending today in my favor, I’m happy to report. The keywords are there in the above letter: Valid, referring to my claim. Dismissed, as well I always knew the citation should be. And as an added bonus, inconvenience, for which the city apologizes!

That’s right, three months I said. The erroneous citation appeared on my car in mid-March; my carefully and clearly worded letter, along with photo documentation, went out within a few days. I received a reply about a month ago, telling me my claim was being processed and would take a bit longer than usual to resolve. What this said to me was that I stood correct, and that the city was now coming to terms with this fact. Then today, my vindication was sealed.

I share with this you as encouragement to contest any citation you yourself might receive, in any municipality, if indeed you truly feel you have a valid case. Some people might just shrug their shoulders and pay the fine, perhaps quietly admitting guilt that isn’t there, or just finding the cash loss to be easier than taking the time to write a letter.

While the City of San Francisco might expect this attitude, I’m here to say: “I don’t think so!” For a few extra minutes of my time, I saved $65. Plus, it feels good! After all, sometimes you lose, but…

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Posted by Ryan on June 8, 2011 in Current Events, San Francisco, Transportation

Tags: beating a parking ticket, SF parking enforcement

Really? When?!

We haven’t been hearing much lately about the TSA and airport security, perhaps to the dismay of Arnold Schwarzenegger and Anthony Weiner. Nevertheless, it looks like technology is well at work, as the airport security “checkpoint of the future” – or at least the concept thereof – begins to show itself.

I most certainly concur that such enhancements to the airport process of today are long overdue. My first question of course: Just how far in the future are we talking? The sooner the better, I say!

Read the article, watch the video, and see what you think. One of these days it will all be very different, while hopefully less eye-roll inducing.

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Posted by Ryan on June 7, 2011 in News, Transportation

Tags: airport security, TSA, TSA checkpoints

Bridge to Bridge Shift

Now into my eighth month of living in the City by the Bay, I continue to be impressed not only by interesting “new” cycling climbs still being discovered – as was the case around Bernal Heights Park this morning – but also by how very, VERY quickly the weather here changes.

Quite a shift it was today, no doubt. As I pedaled out of Bernal Heights and headed north past AT&T Park toward the Bay Bridge, my jersey, shorts and gloves were very wet from the drizzle that had turned into rainfall. The sky remained gray overhead well after the drops ceased. Then, merely minutes later when I reached the Golden Gate, clear blue sky dominated the view. By this time my bicycle, clothing – and body – were dry.

From one bridge to another, today’s weather shifted faster than some of my gears! I’d add this to the list of great reasons to live in San Francisco, if it weren’t on there already.

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Posted by Ryan on June 2, 2011 in Cycling, Daily Activities

Tags: SF cycling, SF weather

Finally.

A 250-mile roundtrip motorcycle ride between San Francisco and Monterey happens to be a fantastic way to spend a sunny Memorial Day Sunday. This particular excursion proved all the more memorable, not just for my riding companionship, nor merely for our lunchtime company, but also for the fact my odometer hit 20,000 miles. (I’d say it rolled over, except for the fact we’re talking digital in this case.). In any event, my SV is now heading into the 20 thousands, one year after first hitting five digits. To this I simply say, finally.

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Posted by Ryan on May 31, 2011 in Daily Activities, Motorcycle

Tags: Monterey, motorcycle odometer, motorcycling

Any Day Now…

From the rear it looks a lot like a BMW. Facing front, it definitely shows itself to be the Audi it is. A few lines and curves may have been slightly enhanced, but on first glance it does not strike me as something entirely new. Rarely does Audi have this effect, after all.

Then, on second glance, and third, and so on, the newness does begin to set in, I will admit. You might not even know at first it’s a hatchback. It might be able to give the BMW 5 Grand Turismo a run for its money, but no matter what anyone might say, it’s certainly no “answer to the CLS.”

There goes my opinion again, to say the least. We’ll let the new Audi A7 speak for itself, and speak to me, as soon as I spot one for the first time in my neighborhood…. any day now I expect.

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Posted by Ryan on May 27, 2011 in And That's My Opinion, Cars

Like Riding A Bike…

There’s always something very rewarding about a full day in the saddle, leaving me with positive feelings of sustained exertion and expected though by no means day-ending fatigue. It’s even more satisfying when such a lengthy cycling trek has not happened in a while, which was indeed the case for me yesterday.

Most simply, despite my few extra pounds and frequent selection of the less-taxing throttle, I’m happy to say I still have it in me. My body’s overall physical performance has by no means failed me, as I remain, as I often like to say, “permanently trained?” I’ll include the question mark, mindful it may not last a lifetime, at least not without continued effort.

My cycling career has made a distinct shift in the past few years. That is, I clearly transitioned from the sustained long distances of centuries, to the much shorter and faster world of races. In 2007 century events, meaning cycling 100 miles in a day, were my most frequent choice of cycling recreation. Come 2009, I was most often pedaling as fast as I could to try to beat my competition in road races that spanned anywhere from 15 to 40 miles. Suffice to say, these are two very different types of cycle exertion.

No change for the worse after two years, thankfully enough.

My own rides have most recently remained shorter and faster for the most part, with the very occasional 50 or 60-miler thrown in. Then came yesterday, yielding me 85 miles in the saddle altogether. Looking back in my very complete ride records, the last time I rode this distance or more was on the Solvang Century in March 2009. The precise type of fatigue I felt last night, I have not felt since that last century. This feeling is by no means a bad one; in fact it’s quite thrilling and adrenaline inducing. The fact my legs felt heavy and stairs were exhausting is merely an observation and not a complaint. I ended up dressed for the evening and out late, on my motorcycle no less, with merely an extra yawn here and there. Many thanks to muscle memory, no doubt!

My body knows how to perform when called upon, even infrequently. While there’s always space for performance improvement, I’m in a self-satisfying and “permanently trained” physical place. It’s, um, like riding a bike. What more could I ask?

Well, here’s one thing: Another fast descent down Panoramic Highway into Stinson Beach. It’s truly the best I’ve found in the area thus far! Check it out for yourself, and I’ll be there to race you to the finish! 😉

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Posted by Ryan on May 15, 2011 in Cycling, Daily Activities

Tags: Century bicycle rides, Cycling road races, Panoramic Highway

Gua-La-La!

A one-of-a-kind living room window view.

After almost a year of intent, I finally made it. The small coastal town of Gualala, some 120 miles north of San Francisco, welcomed my motorcycle and me for a brief yet lovely stay this week. Actually, it’s my fabulous lifelong friend and her hoot of a husband who did the welcoming. The town itself, fortunately, seemed to be on board with my arrival.

Altogether, this 250-mile roundtrip motorcycle journey was scenic, relaxing and of course on some stretches of twisty Hwy 1, challenging! Coming just after an oil change, new brake pads and new brake fluid earlier this week, my sturdy and reliable SV could not have performed better, at least not at the still-somewhat gentle hands of its cautious handler.

With a business appointment already scheduled in Santa Rosa this week, I figured I was already halfway to the residence of my dear friend, so why not? My conclusion: A trip most worthwhile, especially thanks to ideal weather conditions. The route to Gualala is beautiful, the town warm and inviting, the views spectacular, and last but certainly not least, the food absolutely delicious!

If and when you find yourself rolling along the northern California coast, whether by two wheels or four, or more, make Gualala one of your stops. If you’re lucky enough to hit the town on taco night at Trink’s, you’ll be in for a true and unexpected culinary delight. Crab, shrimp, pork or beef, or one or several of each, these generous and flavorful gourmet tacos far surpass any that I can recall in the “big city.” Be sure to get there early or prepare to wait, because despite any visible life on the streets, the place was packed! And on a Wednesday no less!

Join me sometime soon, preferably on your own motorized set of two wheels. You too might just find yourself saying “Gua-la-la!”

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Posted by Ryan on May 12, 2011 in Motorcycle, Restaurants, Travel

Tags: Gualala, Hwy 1 motorcycling, Trinks Gualala

Quite A Climb…

While making my way on bicycle this week north on Canada Road from Woodside, I improvised a new route in order to get around current bridge work on Skyline between Bunker Hill and Crystal Springs. My iPhone-assisted plan took me east into San Carlos and then north toward Belmont, planting me unexpectedly on one very intense and exhausting climb.

Such topography is hardly unusual in the area, but this steep upward path certainly made a lasting impression, perhaps for the intimidating fact of being able to see most of it all at once. I decided when I got home — and yes I did get home — to do an internet search for “Crestview Drive.”

Here’s what I found, most academic and thorough to say the least. “The southern end of Crestview climbs up from Edgewood to Melendy in San Carlos. The street is very wide and fairly straight, so the 30+ mph traffic can leave you room to climb.” (Courtesy: Lucas) Obviously my impromptu “discovery” already exists as an established cycling feat.

Suffice to say, I’m always happy to acquaint myself with yet another cycling challenge. This one was, to say most simply, quite a climb. And for once at least, this is not just my opinion!

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Posted by Ryan on May 6, 2011 in Cycling

Tags: Crestview Drive, Peninsula cycling, San Carlos climbing

Improving On Success

The 2012 Mercedes-Benz CLS: Stunning!

As I’ve previously discussed, Mercedes-Benz styling is on a refreshing upswing these days. While several models have recently been reemerging more handsome than ever, here now comes one more.

The 2012 CLS is simply stunning, all the way from the aggressive and muscular nose to a smooth and refined backside. While the first-generation CLS has certainly been unique and eye-catching over the past six years, the second generation clearly and boldly improves upon success. In addition to looks, meanwhile, the mechanics of the new CLS may very well prove superior to those of often-troubled rival Jaguar XF.

As the reviews trickle in, I look forward to witnessing this welcome new member of the MBZ family take its rightful place on the open road.

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Posted by Ryan on May 4, 2011 in Cars, Mercedes-Benz, Reviews

Tags: 2012 MBZ CLS, mercedes-benz

A Thursday Century

Of course when it comes to motorcycling, there’s always a big difference between tooling around the city in stop-and-go traffic vs. enjoying some good speed out on the open road. As I’ve lately been all the former and none the latter, today’s small-group motorcycle excursion proved most enjoyable. Plus, given the ideal weather conditions, the scenery presented itself in top form as well.

Altogether, today’s route south on a practically car-free (fast) Hwy 280, west through the tree-lined mountains all the way to Pescadero State Beach, and north back to San Francisco on beautiful-yet-windy Hwy 1 covered right around 100 miles, for me door-to-door 103 to be exact. Suffice to say, this was by far the easiest “century” I’ve ever done, considering almost all my others have occurred with merely my leg power, sans motor. I need not mention yet again the obvious difference in calorie burning between pedal and motor, except to remind myself one more time of the paltry, though still hilly, 22 miles I bicycled yesterday.

From lunch in the forest at a relatively quiet Alice’s, to a stroll along the wave-front cliffs of Pescadero via some challenging canyon twists and turns , this turned out to be the perfect “Thursday century,” all the more in the absence of the typical weekend crowds and traffic. I can’t recall exactly the last time I saw my speedometer hit some of the numbers it did, though some of you might be relieved to know I remain a slower motorcyclist relatively speaking. Then, considering I’ve now throttled all of a mere 1,400 miles in the past six months, today’s 100 of them came as quite a welcome, however rare, delight.

With skies like these...

... the coast was a must!

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Posted by Ryan on April 28, 2011 in Daily Activities, Motorcycle

Tags: Alice's Woodside, motorcycle riding, Pescadero State Beach

Not The Number

“31” replaces yesterday’s question mark. As the number of miles cycled in the course of two hours on another sunny, albeit cooler and windier, afternoon, the mostly flat and fast jaunt to Tiberon proved itself time well spent. Included in the relatively brief spin was even a quick moment for some creative photography.

For all this recent talk of numbers, it’s not always about the number, at least as far as distance itself is concerned. There IS always cadence, ascent, descent, time and average speed to consider. After all, a hard and attacking 20 miles certainly beats a relaxed and steady 50 miles most any day.

Today came the number 25, in 90 minutes, as this rather unpredictable sequence continues. But again, it’s really not the number of miles that most matters. The number of minutes, for better or worse, usually has more to say.

And that’s my well-cycled opinion.

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Posted by Ryan on April 7, 2011 in And That's My Opinion, Cycling

Tags: cycling, San Francisco cycling, Tiberon loop

28, 30, 21, 68, ?

Sustained spring weather + Another birthday had = Cycling mileage accumulated. What better way to welcome in the new season and my new age, I say, than through several clustered days of some hard and fast pedaling!

28, 30, 21… followed by a painless jump to 68… all over the past few days… and now the sun shines on this young Wednesday, beckoning me to continue this quickly growing numerical sequence.

Sunday’s 68-mile loop north into Marin and around the Nicasio Reservoir was just what I needed, thankfully demonstrating that, in the face of short and/or nonexistent rides often replaced by motorcycle usage if not shelved for bad weather, in no way have I lost my overall cycling strength and stamina. Even the 10-15 additional pounds on my body from three years ago in my cycling prime have not seemed to slow me down all that much, except of course on a long, steep climb alongside someone 50 pounds my weight junior. As always, there’s vast room for performance improvement!

There’s also vast room for improvement to my iPhone’s GPS app, which recorded a mere 58 of Sunday’s 68 miles. Now mounted to my handlebar stem thanks to a birthday present, my iPhone sits right in front of me to (unreliably) provide all the ride information I might need.

At one point along Sunday’s route, on a woodsy, tree-covered bike path somewhere northwest of Fairfax, a warm and welcome flashback came to me of the Elroy-Sparta Trail, conjuring up happy memories of my earliest days of cycling, well more than a decade ago.

This unexpectedly reflective moment led me to contemplate that, shamefully enough, I’ve not renewed my USA Cycling license this year. Admittedly, for the costs and travel typically involved, races have been a very low priority, sadly enough. As I crank out some more miles today, however, no doubt I’ll once again see some glimpses of this situation sooner or later changing.

For now, it’s time to continue the sequence. We’ll see what comes next, based of course on what number my iPhone chooses to provide!

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Posted by Ryan on April 6, 2011 in Cycling, Daily Activities

Tags: Elroy-Sparta Trail, iPhone GPS, Nicasio cycling loop, USA Cycling

7.52 Miles

Here’s a prime illustration of how much, or little, I’ve ridden my motorcycle over the past few months since moving to San Francisco:

Last November 1, on the one-year anniversary of my moto ownership, my odometer read 18,103. Yesterday, on our Homoto ride down Hwy 1 and through Woodside, 133 days later, my odometer passed 19,103. Simply put, it’s taken me nearly four and a half months to ride 1000 miles! This equates to a whopping 7.52 miles per day.

Of consistent yet short-range use of late.

It’s not that my big red two-wheeled machine goes neglected; I’m on it regularly. Except for a couple of weekend excursions and one round trip to Sacramento, however, the bulk of my moto use has been in and around San Francisco itself. While a motorcycle is an enjoyable and practical way to navigate the city, naturally the mileage does not accumulate. This is a far cry from last spring in Los Angeles, when I logged 3,000 miles in six weeks!

Nonetheless, yesterday’s approximately 100-mile journey was some good exercise, for my engine rather than my body, that is! It’s always enjoyable to get out on the scenic roads, at least until the rain starts coming down! Riding north on Hwy 280 in a downpour was the less-than-enjoyable part of the day. Fortunately, the hearty burger and fries at Sullivan’s gave me the energy to deal with it and get back to the city in one piece.

Now, with spring upon is, let’s see how long it takes to log the next 1000. Thanks the today’s ongoing rain and overall wetness, it looks like the next 7.52 will have to wait.

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Posted by Ryan on March 14, 2011 in Motorcycle, Restaurants

Tags: Homoto, Motorcycle, motorcycle riding, riding in SF

The Diesel Comeback

Today’s growing production of diesel-engine cars, especially large diesel luxury cars, has certainly piqued my interest. First, I think, it’s the early 1980s all over again, when at one point Mercedes-Benz offered five diesel-engine models in its U.S. lineup. Granted, if nothing else, this time around has already proven much cleaner and quieter.

An increasingly common badge on the road

Then, I continue to think, it’s time for me to get out and drive at least a couple of the various new luxury diesel models, to really see and feel what diesel-circa-2011 is all about. (Personal diesel trucks have existed all along and are another story altogether.) The last occasion on which I recall driving a diesel car was in 1992, when I enjoyed the use of a 1982 300 SD. Clearly, times have since evolved, and it’s safe to guess that diesels of today, with a nod to Audi, will accelerate faster than I can run!

If diesels are now or becoming poised to compete with hybrids, while offering competitive MPG with superior power, then I’m all for it. After all, my hybrid-driving experience has thus far yielded about as much satisfaction as riding a city bus. The diesel comeback has my attention. Now let’s see if it wins!

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Posted by Ryan on March 9, 2011 in Cars

Tags: diesel comeback, diesel luxury cars, diesel models

A Quick Spin

For a relatively short yet satisfying bicycle workout, I highly recommend Canada Road, starting at the junction of Highways 280 and 92, next to the Upper Crystal Springs Reservoir.

This stretch has been a part of my longer treks on several occasions, most notably via a few Alto Velo club rides. Most recently, I’ve been making the easy jaunt down from San Francisco for a quick spin on what’s proven to be some satisfactory nearby open road. Following Canada Road into Woodside, then adding a short loop around Sand Hill Road before heading back to the start point, will give you a whopping total distance of 20 miles. Do it twice, or three times, if you have the energy and aren’t bored with scenic repetition. I have yet to add of few legs onto the route, which I hope to do on my next visit, possibly over into Belmont and back.

Perhaps the best, yet most crowded, time to cycle on Canada Road is on “Bicycle Sunday,” when a good stretch heading south from Hwy 92 is closed to all motor traffic from 9am to 3pm.

This is merely a small, very easy, yet relatively enjoyable cycling suggestion, if you’re unfamiliar with the area or just tired of pedaling through the city!

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Posted by Ryan on March 8, 2011 in Cycling

Tags: bicycle Sunday, Canada Road, Peninsula cycling, San Francisco cycling

Automotive Time Warp

A fascinating journey back in time it was, as I felt in some moments I was reading the article on the date it actually first appeared. Suffice to say, this piece published in Car and Driver on the numerically catching date of 7-7-77 is well worth a relaxing and informative read for car lovers who appreciate distinctive events of automotive history.

It’s likely no surprise by now as to what make of car I’m discussing here. The surprises, for me, were for one, that the fastest production sedan in the world at the time, putting out by today’s standards a paltry 286 HP, cost just $40,000 in 1977, and for another, that apparently you could then buy a Rolls Royce for the same price. No doubt 40 Gs made for a very large amount of money for any car 34 years ago. Still, I thought the model at hand would have cost a bit more, considering I recall one of its somewhat-lesser relatives costing $39,000 in 1980. And RR would presumably have been on its own higher plateau, much like today.

The subject of this article remains on my lifetime wish list of models I would love to own. Many similar enthusiasts share my sentiment, and the buys are definitely out there. But no power seats?! Shocking indeed.

If you’re so inclined as some form of a car nut, sit down with a cup of coffee and experience the same automotive time warp that I did. For all you may already know, there’s certainly enough material at hand to learn something new and interesting.

The Ruler of the Day

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Posted by Ryan on March 3, 2011 in Cars, Mercedes-Benz

Tags: Mercedes-Benz 6.9, Mercedes-Benz history

“Welcome to the Family”

In that fantastic Mercedes-Benz commercial that aired during the Super Bowl ten days ago, four new models were “welcomed to the family.” At that time, I quietly contemplated my surprising realization that I could not immediately name one of them. We saw the second-generation CLS, the third-generation SLK, the elegantly reigning SLS, and… a fourth emerging family member whom I myself had not yet identified.

The mystery, for me at least, has ended. Yet another exciting and welcome addition to the MBZ line has been revealed in its entirety, via the Mercedes-Benz Facebook page among other outlets. My instant take is this: The new car is handsome overall, even more so when its muscular lines are looked upon from the front and side; the model is very sensible and practical in its place in the lengthy MBZ hierarchy; and perhaps most of all, this addition is sure to be an immediate and formidable rival to its already-established competition, namely the BMW 3-series models of two doors.

I join Mercedes-Benz in welcoming to the family, the all-new C-Class Coupe!

Welcome, C-Coupe!

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Posted by Ryan on February 16, 2011 in Cars, Mercedes-Benz

Tags: C-Class Coupe, mercedes-benz

Into The Headlands

At the northern base of the Golden Gate Bridge come the Marin Headlands. As suggested to me a few weeks back, I took a bicycle jaunt, finally, through the freshly paved roads of the area. In addition to the varied and rugged terrain comes this absolutely spectacular, almost aerial, view.

From atop the Marin Headlands

And so, here we have yet another option for a relatively short cycling loop close to the city, one that I obviously recommend. You can catch your breath with the view after a challenging climb and before a rewarding descent… and before some more climbing. Next time I’ll need to extend the loop for a more respectable total distance!

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Posted by Ryan on February 9, 2011 in Cycling, Daily Activities

My Winners

It should come as no surprise that my favorite Super Bowl commercials were those for cars. Perhaps the surprise lies in the idea that a rival to my always-preferred Mercedes-Benz seems to have stolen the show, at least in my book.

Of course the MBZ spot was absolutely fantastic and powerfully moving, so to speak, laden with captivating nostalgia while launching us into an exciting future. It’s at least my number two. Then, another extensively and brilliantly produced car spot held my attention all the way to its disappointing finish. In this case, the revelation of just exactly the car being advertised was a pure let down. Sorry KIA, while your spot had me going there, you yourself don’t excite me. Thankfully, I got a good chuckle out of BMW’s ad for the 335d, as it poked exaggerated yet somewhat truthful fun at the various “dirty” diesels of yesteryear. All the while, amid mounds of visual stimulation and historical contemplation, I do believe my choice of favorite Super Bowl ad, if I were to choose just one, has to go to the celebrity-studded work of comedy itself, one I’ll need to watch a couple more times to thoroughly absorb all its crisscrossing elements. This “winner” of which I speak, to my aforementioned surprise, is Audi. The new A8 has arrived via advertising dominance!

Beer and chips sell themselves as far as I’m concerned. This said, I do appreciate Dorito’s homoerotic undertones, intentional or not. Meanwhile, the NFL itself touched the nostalgia nerve in a wonderful way. And any appearance by the terrifically shameless Joan Rivers, complete in all her camp, always spells success. Last night’s was no exception. Finally, with another nod to homoeroticism, let’s not forget to “cram it in the boot!” Mini’s hysterical ad is most certainly my number three!

Out of all of this, including all I’m forgetting to mention, the car ads stand as my winners. I’m just sorry Betty White was too busy to make any appearance this time around!

All said, that’s my opinion!

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Posted by Ryan on February 7, 2011 in And That's My Opinion, Cars, Humor, Media, Television

Tags: audi, cram it in the boot!, mercedes-benz, mini, super bowl ads

Thinking

Cycling through the narrow, winding roads of the Presidio is proving to be not just physically satisfying, but pleasingly educational as well.

While the park’s hilly terrain presents some decent climbing and descending, the relatively open space and lack of stop lights, compared to the majority of San Francisco city regions, allows for the accumulation of a bit of non-city-like mileage. Then come the variety of historical, artistic and geographic attractions of this national park, including the National Cemetery and the Legion of Honor, not to mention spectacular views.

The Thinker has me thinking...

It’s in the courtyard of the Legion of Honor that I discovered the presence of one of my favorite classic works of art, The Thinker. Overall, I’m happy to be learning of so many treasures within this wooded northwestern tip of the Peninsula, as no doubt I’ve only scratched the surface thus far.

Who says you can’t manage some decent cycling within San Francisco itself? The Presidio serves as further testimony that indeed you can, as long as you initially figure out some of the tricky routes and turns within the park itself. More awaits me on this front.

Suffice to say, such cycling seems to be working well for my body, if not my curious mind. I certainly recommend adding this area to your own path of exploration. A jaunt through the Presidio should certainly keep you, well… thinking!

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Posted by Ryan on February 3, 2011 in Cycling, Daily Activities, Reviews, San Francisco

Tags: San Francisco cycling, The Presidio, The Thinker

Round Three

As the saying goes, the third time’s a charm! In this case, it’s quite an attractive and muscular charm to boot.

The first generation was just that, the first attempt, albeit a respectable one with spacious room for maturation. The second generation earned its place of uniqueness, at least when looked upon from its distinctive nose. And now, the third generation is eminently upon us, otherwise known as the 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK class.

Even hotter from the front!

Just as the BMW Z4 has grown up and filled out with each rebirth, so too, and better so may I say, has the SLK. This new two-seater, retractable-hard-top roadster is simply stunning, taking some obvious styling cues, both inside and out, from its famous and stately uncle, the SLS.

No doubt the third generation SLK will see instant success when it comes to the U.S. this summer. Overall, I’m impressed by such significant improvement in much of, though not all, MBZ styling in the past couple years. Perhaps the elimination of Chrysler influence has something to do with it.

In any case, I look forward to spotting the all-new 2012 SLK out on the road, while of course checking it out up close for myself. Round three will start before we know it!

And that’s my auto-styling opinion.

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Posted by Ryan on February 1, 2011 in And That's My Opinion, Cars, Mercedes-Benz, Reviews

Tags: 2012 MBZ SLK, Mercedes-Benz styling, third generation SLK

Happy 125th!

Wow. It’s “auto overload” in the best of ways. Today I stumbled across a website on which I could easily spend an entire evening. If you too are not merely an auto enthusiast, but a true and dedicated admirer of all things Mercedes-Benz, then you too best visit this very fascinating and educational online destination.

Among numerous categories to explore, I highly recommend the virtual tour of the Mercedes-Benz Museum in Stuttgart, Germany, in case you aren’t nearby to see it in person. While I knew the Pullman 600 remained in production until 1980, and that the 300 SD was the world’s first turbodiesel production car, I was unaware that Princess Diana drove her own 500 SL for several months in 1992. Suffice to say, a vast amount of MBZ history is elegantly showcased online, and the ultimate compilation is nothing short of extraordinary.

Speaking of history, this happens to be the 125th anniversary of German engineer Carl Benz’ unveiling of his “vehicle powered by gas engine.” As such, 2011 is a year of celebration for Daimler AG, with the remembrance just this past weekend of one hugely pivotal historical event. Check out this other very special site as well, connected to the first, to get 125 years of automotive history in 95 seconds, among all else! After all, Carl Benz is regarded as the inventor of not just what became Mercedes-Benz, but of the gasoline-powered automobile all around.

Happy 125th birthday, Automobile! And to think, I remember when you were a mere 100.

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Posted by Ryan on January 31, 2011 in Cars, History, Mercedes-Benz

Tags: 125th auto anniversary, Carl Benz, Mercedes-Benz history

Another Great Climb

My knowledge of the many challenging cycling routes of the Peninsula continues to expand. Considering that Alto Velo seems rather lax in posting their ride routes ahead of time, the Saturday morning “B” ride definitely hands me a surprise as far as where we’re headed for the day.

Last weekend’s particular climb out of Cupertino was a first for me. Stevens Canyon Road, Mt. Eden Road, Hwy 9 all the way up to Skyline Blvd: Altogether this was a hell of a lot of uphill pedaling, but of course I survived it well intact! I won’t complain, as this kind of extended physical exertion is exactly what I need these days. In fact, this route is worth a repeat performance, if not several!

Talk about a cycling workout!

Needless to say, I’m happy to have been introduced to another great cycling climb in the Bay Area, especially on a day of such ideal weather conditions. Perhaps you’ll join me next time. As far as getting dropped by the main group, well… we’ll just let that go, for now.

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Posted by Ryan on January 26, 2011 in Cycling

Tags: Alto Velo B Ride, Peninsula cycling

New? Not.

For a brief moment, I got excited. Then upon closer inspection, I was underwhelmed. Of course this is simply my first, instantaneous reaction based solely on outward appearance. There could be a lot more going on that I do not yet see.

No, I’m not talking about a date or meeting someone new, though I suppose it could sound this way. The matter at hand is the 2012 Audi A6, introduced to the U.S. last week at the Detroit Auto Show.

More and more cars look alike these days; styling has grown rather clone-like and uninspiring over the past decade especially. When a popular manufacturer such as Audi unveils an “all-new” model, I do get excited to see something, well… new! So in this case of the “new” A6, the headlights have been granted new shape. Ok, fine. Is this all? Sure, the back end is different, and I will say better, than the outgoing A6. Still, it looks just like the current A4, and not too far off from the recent “redux” of the A8. All in all, and again, merely upon initial impression, I’m looking not at something “new,” but rather at a slightly tweaked punch of the same old cookie cutter.

Perhaps Audi could learn a lesson from Jaguar. Now THERE is new!

And yep… that’s my opinion.

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Posted by Ryan on January 19, 2011 in And That's My Opinion, Cars, News

Tags: Audi A6, car styling

At The Speed of Cold

36 and 188. These are my mileage totals on two wheels this past weekend, for bicycle and motorcycle, respectively. When I’ve said it really doesn’t feel all that cold here in the Bay Area, I amend this now to say it might not seem so when walking or standing still. When moving at 30 mph on a bicycle, it’s another story. Up this to 80 mph on a motorcycle, and, well, let’s just say the story turns downright frigid.

The Tiberon Loop: 36 miles total from The Presidio

The “Tiberon Loop” is a popular, somewhat challenging and not-too-far-away route for cyclists in need of a quick jaunt out of the city. I’m happy to have rediscovered it on Saturday, after having ridden it several years ago. For a total of 36 miles from The Presidio, it’s a decent workout of relatively short distance.

Mines Road, heading southwest from Livermore, spans far greater distance. This is certainly an excursion for which, despite seeing one cyclist, I recommend throttle over pedal. Yesterday was the first Homoto Motorcycle Club ride of 2011, and it was by far, for me, the coldest motorcycling I have done to date. With gloves inside of more gloves, my hands seemed to remain painfully frozen. And at highway speeds once we were out of the twisty canyons, moments came and went in which my entire body quivered.

Nevertheless, Sunday was clear and sunny, unlike the fogged-in grayness of Saturday. It was terrific to finally get out once again for a long, scenic, albeit freezing motorcycle ride after such little throttle activity in the past month. As I wrote after our December group ride to Dillon Beach, there’s such a wonderful variety of country roads to explore so close to San Francisco, providing the momentary feeling of being somewhere far away. This time, amid cliffs and rolling green hills, I saw images of England, Scotland and France. Perhaps the extremely narrow, winding, varyingly paved road we were on had something to do with it, in addition to the breathtaking scenery.

188 miles of motorcycling make for a satisfying day, no matter the temperature or terrain. Thankfully, and unusually, I rode my motorcycle every day of last week, though just within the city. Yesterday was “for real.” And seeing as I’ve now logged a mere 500 motorcycle miles since November 1, rides like this one are obviously few and far between. As such, they’re a welcome event when they happen.

By pedal and by throttle, winter temperatures drove the weekend. I definitely know a little more today about traveling “at the speed of cold.”

010911homoto

A welcome yet frigid day on the motorcycle!

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Posted by Ryan on January 10, 2011 in Cycling, Motorcycle, Transportation

Tags: cold weather, Homoto, Mines Road, Tiberon loop

Open Cycling Road

Earlier this month, I wrote that a day excursion north of San Francisco to the Point Reyes vicinity is an excellent undertaking by motorcycle. I’m here now to say the same trip works just as well, and in terms of calorie burning even better, by bicycle.

There’s practically no vehicle traffic whatsoever out on the country roads near the little towns of Marshall and Point Reyes Station. For most of the time, cyclists have the road to themselves, much more so than on the popularly pedaled roads around Woodside. The pavement up north is typically iffy in a few spots, but thankfully enough most of it is relatively new and smooth, especially along the stretch of Hwy 1 along Tomales Bay known as Shoreline Hwy.

Cycling on Shoreline Hwy along Tomales Bay

Just as I highly recommend the area for a rewarding motorcycle outing, the same goes for a morning, and afternoon, or an entire day, of cycling. It sure beats stop-and-go city riding, as long as you don’t mind the car trip to get there. I’ll be back up there soon sans motor, as there’s much more open road to cover. Our loop yesterday was a mere 35 miles. Next time we’ll double this!

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Posted by Ryan on December 28, 2010 in Cycling, Daily Activities, Reviews

Tags: cycling, marshall, point reyes station

On My Way…

Out with the Dura Ace 12-27, in with an Ultegra 11-28. I’m told I’ll even gain a little more climbing power, and that, to my surprise, my new Ultegra chain will actually last longer than my old Dura Ace. If you’re a cyclist, you know exactly what this all means. If you’re not, don’t ask!

Ok 11-28, treat me well!

After at least seven thousand miles on my old cassette and chain, I was definitely slowed down in recent months and, shall we say, cranking it for all it was worth. It was well beyond time for yesterday’s replacement. This morning, in my first 11-28 Ultegra ride, albeit short and flat, I immediately felt a huge and wonderful difference. It’s like having a new bike!

As such, the climbs are beckoning. The mileage is mine for the taking. And come January, it’s safe to say I’ll be looking for a good road race or two. I’m not back in top cycling shape completely, but I’m definitely on my way!

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Posted by Ryan on December 24, 2010 in Cycling

A “New” Day

A very wet 101

The road ahead was beyond wet for most of the trip, but it hardly slowed me down. Rarely anything does.

Back now in L.A. once again, it’s time for my third set of tires on my four-year-old 4Runner. After 30K on the factory Dunlops, my larger Nittos carried me 56K. So now, at 86K, my second, identical set of Nittos are getting mounted as I write.

This comes at the same time my bicycle just got a much-awaited new chain and cassette today! If the weather holds, La Grange is calling me at 6:30 tomorrow morning. I’ll drive on my new tires to meet up and pedal on my newly serviced road bike!

It’s a “new” day, in more ways than one, whether or not the road ahead remains wet.

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Posted by Ryan on December 23, 2010 in Cars, Cycling

Tags: 4Runner, Nitto, road bike

My Perfect Window

It looks like I picked the right day to climb back on the saddle. After my crash three weeks ago, and with my road rash finally healed and the soreness subsided, yesterday was a fantastic and ideal time to get back out on my bicycle for a relatively short 20-mile loop around the city.

One perfect day for cycling

My return to pedaling could have come sooner, except for one obstacle here in the city. It’s called weather. Yesterday was an absolutely beautiful, clear day, coming after a nearly week-long streak of steady rain and overall wetness. Now this morning, true to San Francisco form, we’ve returned to the same rain and wetness once again. As such, yesterday was no doubt my perfect window of time to ride, while obviously a limited one. I’ve said for the past week or so that when I got back out on my bicycle, I wanted at least my first ride to be under dry and pleasant conditions. I got my wish, and I’m thrilled I did!

Through Golden Gate Park all the way to the coast, up through the Presidio past the southern base of the Golden Gate Bridge, across the Marina and around through the Embarcadero, from AT&T Park into the Mission and finally back to Upper Castro, altogether yields a respectable 20-mile course with some decent open stretches amid the traffic stop and go. I suggest this route for any of you local cyclists who need a decent in-city spin!

I’ve love to be back in the saddle again tomorrow, for a longer ride into Marin. We’ll just have to see if my perfect window comes again!

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Posted by Ryan on December 17, 2010 in Cycling

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