Mad Max’s Rock The Pasta California Tour
Mad Max’s Rock The Pasta California Tour
Top Guide Massimo Marenco, also known as “Mad Max” returned from his successful two week Summer Rock the Pasta Tour along the California Coast. Max traveled from Napa Valley to Santa Barbara, and stopping en route to visit past and future Ciclismo Classico guests.
The multi-talented Ciclismo athlete spent most of his days cycling, with a fully loaded bike–joined by Ciclismo alumni who pedaled alongside him for various sections–or tappe–of his route. On many evenings, when Max was not camping or resting up before pedaling to his next destination, he was cooking pasta, pouring wine and hosting dinners in private homes to large groups of Californians (Ciclismo Classico alumni and friends) who came together to celebrate and share laughter, fun, food, wine and most importantly dreams of a future cycling tour in Europe.
I had a chance to ask Massimo a few questions about his overall experience rockin’ that pasta in various Californian kitchens.
MM: I must say when I biked across the Golden Gate Bridge I was so lucky because the sun was shining, the colors were amazing and the atmosphere was absolutely thrilling! They told me that it is very unusual this time of year to have such clear skies!
CS: Who attended the dinners
MM: It was a great mix of Ciclismo Classico alumni but there were loads of new folks, friends of alumni and friends of friends. It was a great way of connecting up with people and spreading the word.
MM: I cycled 490 miles. I camped four times (including Capitola, Big Sur and Gaviota in the most amazing camp sites.
MM: I will definitely return this winter. My dream idea is to depart from LA (where I left my bike) and to cycle inland, maybe across Arizona.
MM: Rock the Pasta is the best way for us to show people who are we and how we work. It’s an intimate gathering. People have fun and get excited to travel.
MM: In San Clemente we went out for a short ride to the beach. We ate tacos and drank beer. It was very simple but the best part was, after a short walking and tour of the town we rode uphill with e-bikes! The hills in San Clemente are pretty big and the beer(s) didn’t help! I love cycling but sometimes a little assistance goes a long way and in this case–made my day!
Ciclismo Classico’s Director Lauren Hefferon adds: “We are committed to connecting with and involving our raving fans/Ambassadors in keeping the energy alive. This is about continuing and expanding the Ciclismo family. Keeping the passion alive. Being creative. That the bike tours are only the beginning of how we want your experience with us to transform your life! We love our alumni!”
A big shout out and huge thanks to our generous Ciclismo Alumni who hosted or participated in Max’s California pasta events: Timothy Spaeth, Dan Wilkowsky, Sam Manolakas, Jill Spicer and Jeff McNear, Japi Lipson, Josh Lehrer and David Nordahl.
THANK YOU!
Stay tuned for more Rock the Pasta fun this Winter when Max will be joined by Ciclismo Classico’s talented Paola Secco!
Photos by Massimo Marenco & Lauren Hefferon.