I recently went on a Napa Valley road bike ride organized by volunteers of the United States Bicycling Hall of Fame, located in Davis. Although I've been bicycling for the last 25 years, I didn't know there was such an institution, much less in Davis. But during our ride, I learned a lot about the hall.

Halls of fame exist in pretty much every sport, including cricket in Hartford, Connecticut, frisbee in Calumet, Indiana, and even jai alai in Dania Beach, Florida. So, how did the Hall come to Davis, that shady, sleepy, sometimes sweltering college town off the I-80 corridor to Sacramento?

Have you finished your shopping yet? Have you started it? Need some ideas for those bike-loving enthusiasts in the family? Each year, the elves of Cycle California! Magazine comb through piles of products, solicit suggestions from fellow cyclists, and prowl the aisles of sporting goods stores in search of the practical, the whimsical and, in some cases, the not-necessarily bike-oriented items.

This year's ideas are varied and range from carryalls and small pouches to computer-toting backpacks; comfort clothing, security devices, and a stylish jersey to proclaim your bicycling pride. Some are small enough to fit into your stocking hanging from the mantel with care, while others reside, beautifully wrapped, under the tree.

You can find Cycle California! Magazine at 825 locations in Northern California and Northern Nevada.
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Or, click on the image of the magazine cover above to read this month's issue!