Bay Area: Tri-Valley Conservancy Ride

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The last two weeks have been challenging. While working with Cormanus, he leaned hard on me from Queensland. In his delightful, scolding-yet-supportive way, he told me I needed a break and to just get on the motorcycle and ride. He assured me that my obsessions would be waiting for me when I returned. He was right on both counts.

I had just managed to re-assemble the motorcycle following the fire. Ash, smoke, and an acidic residue seemed to defy all laws of physics and find their way into every inch (or centimeter) of the CB1100EX. I had to take the motorcycle apart, neutralize the bad nasties, clean everything with gentle solvents, and reassemble to make sure nothing would, in time, eat away at the metal, paint, and chrome. When it was re-assembled, I took some satisfaction knowing that I did not have any “extra” bolts or screws lying about, but I still believed it was prudent to take things slow. I needed a gentle road that would let me confirm I did indeed get things right—with some natural beauty, preferably smoke-free.

I decided to visit the Tri-Valley Conservancy. It is an incredible demonstration of how a community banded together to preserve a legacy yet build a sustainable future. 114 property owners agreed to preserve farms and open space. Vineyards dot the landscape, and 500 acres of parks were protected along the way. It is not a testament to the past; it is a living example of what the future can be when people live with the land and not just on it.

The road that leads from town is appropriately named Vineyard. It is two-lane, well-paved, flat, and relatively traffic-free. I gently tested the motorcycle without stressing it. I also stopped along the way when something caused me to forget about spammers, insurance adjusters, and work. I hope you enjoy the pictures and would encourage you to consider this 20-mile round-trip trek from downtown Pleasanton if you find yourself in the East Bay.

Enjoy your week. Mine is off to a great start.

David