Member Mirror: Julia Surtshin
Hey Fellow Cyclists, my name is Julia Surtshin. I’m a fairly new PBC member, joining just last season. I’m planning to write a regular column of member spotlights and thought I’d start with a selfie.
I joined PBC because, quite frankly, I don’t like to ride alone. I’m more comfortable riding with a few others and also enjoy the social aspects of the sport. I love the fact that I can find a suitable PBC ride almost any day of the week that I’m free to hit the road.
I began my adult cycling career almost 40 years ago, when a friend showed me a Backroads catalog. I thumbed through the stunning photographs and was hooked. A few months later I did my first supported tour in the Canadian Rockies. I’ve also done Bryce, Zion and the Grand Canyon; Vermont; Northern California; the Olympic Peninsula; the Centennial Trail, Route of the Hiawatha and Trail of Coeur d’Alenes.
As to my “peak” cycling experiences…of course my first tour…, ✎ the Canadian Rockies, was a high in many ways. It was the first time I’d ridden that many consecutive days and the first time I rode 50 miles, so it was incredibly empowering. Plus, I met five people who happened to live close to me in Southern California. We continued to ride together for years, until I moved up here to Oregon.
Netherlands
Another cycling high I experienced about 12 years ago. A friend and I planned to tour the Netherlands. We had some ideas of what we wanted to see and contacted a bike tour company to plan our route, provide rental bikes, and transfer our luggage. My friend convinced me that it would be better if we carried our own stuff on the bikes because that way we could change our route if it suited us. I was skeptical, having never ridden with panniers. I let myself be convinced, bought a set of Ortlieb bags, and away we went. It was an incredible trip. We did alter our route a few times and were happy to be free to follow our whimsy. I’ve still got the bags, but unfortunately, have never used them since.
Of all the PBC rides I’ve been on, my favorite was one led by our own fearless Ann Morrow which included two crossings of the Columbia, a spin through Vancouver’s new waterfront, and a leg out to Frenchman’s Bar. The combination of urban and wetland scenery was super enjoyable. Even if you’re not new to PBC, consider joining this ride!
As far as non-PBC routes, I enjoy a spin through the residential streets of Lake Grove to Lake Oswego, and then onto the bike path along the river to West Linn. It’s shady and just the thing for a hot summer day. I also enjoy riding from my home, through the Stafford area to Oregon City. There used to be a fabulous coffee shop that made the climb up Singer Hill worthwhile. Bummer, it closed during covid.
First bicycle
I have two favorite pieces of gear that you’ll never find me without. The first is my new Domane+ road bike. I caved and bought an ebike but am determined to use it as a tool to increase my endurance and get stronger, not as an excuse to lose fitness. The other is my whistle. It’s much more effective than either a bell or shouting in situations when a loud alert is needed. It’s saved me from getting hit by both buses and car doors.
When I’m not cycling, you can find me visiting with the Ukrainian family I sponsor, and enjoying Portland’s restaurant and performing arts scenes.
Well, that’s my intro. I hope to meet more of you in the near future. Look for member spotlights in upcoming editions of Quick Releases.
Julia Surtshin, Club Member