TREK Y-66 58cm One-piece carbon fiber molded frame bike. Very light - sub 19 lbs. Very quick - due to frame rigidity. Unique in appearance. Metallic blue. Shimano Ulte-gra comp. $3100 new. Asking $1100, OBO. Excellent condition. Chuck at 885-3069 (Tuc) or e-mail to syclst@theriver.com

BRIDGESTONE RB-T, 54cm. Good shape. 21-speed, bar-end shift. $300. GITANE TANDEM, Med. size, 7-speed, bar-end shifters, great for getting started. $600. TREK 1500, 58cm, Dura Ace comp., excellent cond., perfect for beginner racer. Real nice road bike for a low investment. $800. E-mail: aliciarides@yahoo.com

BIKES WANTED: 21" road, 19-20" Hybrid, 700 wheels, steel frame, like new cond., entry level OK. FOR SALE: Novara road bike, 51cm, alum. frame, 70mm stem, Shimano 105/RSX components, STI levers, triple crank, very good cond., asking $225. FOR SALE: Vasque mid-height hiking boots, men's 10, brand new; Specialized Sport Mountain shoes, men's 44, used twice, each $25. Arthur, 520-624-9961.

FREE for GABA members!  ONLY for GABA members! Submit to the Editor at suzancouvr@aol.com

or by fax: 325-4272

Tonight,  we welcome Mike and Susan Burdick who will discuss traveling  with folding bikes. They have done trips  in the US and Europe

with single bikes  and with their Bike Friday tandem.

Demonstration on how to fold and pack the tandem  as well as two single models from Bike Friday.

Everybody is welcome! See you all there!

Tonight, we have the pleasure of welcoming Aunna Elm who was instrumental

in implementing the Safe Routes to Schools Program in England. This worldwide endeavor

to establish safe pedestrian and bicycling routes to schools works

at the grassroots level by involving parents and teachers in the community.

Aunna , sub-committee Chair for the Tucson Bicycle Advisory Committee's Safe Routes to Schools Program,

will give a presentation on this invaluable project and answer all your questions.

SAVE

2/10/02 Laveen Challenge $

2/24/02 Coolidge Century $3 February 15

3/2/2002 Le Grande $5 February 1

3/16/02 Mining Country Cent. $10 March 2

3/30 Bike Swap de Tucson FREE

3/30 Desert Double Century $5 March 15

4/6 & 7 Hands Across the Border Must be paid by March 30

4/13 & 14 Sonoita Bisbee $5 April 5

The Laveen Lions and West Valley GABA invite GABA-Tucson riders to one of Arizona's Premier cycling events, the 10th Annual Laveen Country Challenge held in beautiful downtown Laveen.

The metric century begins in Laveen, takes to the foothills of the Estrella Mountains in Good-year, and loops back. Fee: $18 for members, $22 for non-members. After 2/2, everyone pays $25.

Pedal by dairy farms and some of the last farmland in the region. After the ride, let yourself be treated to one of the best "Pit" barbecue dinners in the southwest! Plus enjoy a craft fair and live entertainment!

Laveen is located southwest of Phoenix, a short 1.5 hour from Tucson. Directions:Take I-10 west to Phoenix, exit at Riggs Rd. (exit 167?), go west on Riggs Rd. to Laveen.

Sil Ontiveros, 602-237-2745, sontiverossprint@ earthlink.net or lensenet. com

100K (62 miles), 50K (31 miles)

and a 10-mile Family Fun Ride.

at Peart Park (at City Hall), 300 W. 4th St. in downtown Casa Grande. On-site regis-tration is available starting at 7 AM Saturday at Peart Park.

$25 by 2/1

$30 after 2/1

$35 on-site

$15 by 2/1

$20 after 2/1

$25 on-site

$10 /person by 2/1

$15/person after 2/1

Sponsored by Abbott Laboratories and presented by the Arizona Parks & Rec Association (APRA), this premier bike event will once again wind its way through beautiful desert landscapes around Casa Grande, Coolidge and Eloy.

Each rider gets a quality event T-shirt, sponsor coupons, post ride lunch and prize drawing tickets. Medals are awarded to the first 100 finishers in the 100K and recog-nition ribbons are awarded to all riders. For the first time this year, actual ride times will be tracked and posted for all 100K and 50K riders.

Casa Grande's small town atmosphere and clean air make the Tour a genuine "quality of life" experience for the whole family. This Tour has become very popular over the years, and 2002 participation is expected to exceed 600 riders!

Since 1988, APRA has sponsored the Le Grande Bike Tour as a fund-raising event. Proceeds from the Le Grande Bike Tour help support the APRA programs and enable the association to continue professional work in many areas. With a professional member-ship close to 1000, APRA is the largest individual membership association for Parks & Recreation providers in Arizona. The Arizona Parks & Rec was established in 1950 as a non-profit professional organi-zation. APRA's mission is to "Improve and promote the parks and recreation pro-fession, develop and maintain professional standards, provide services and support to its members and enhance the quality of life in Arizona".

A SAFE KIDS bicycle training program will be held at Peart Park free of charge by the Pima County Sheriff's Dept. on the morning of the ride. Kids can learn the fundamentals of bicycle safety, including maintenance and rules of the road. A brief discussion will be followed by a hands-on safety course. Kids can bring their own bikes and helmets, or use those provided by the program.

For further information, contact APRA at 800-335-7275, or visit the web site at www.azpra.org

President: Wayne Cullop

Vice President: Steve Wilson

Treasurer: Janet Landis

Secretary: Sandi Rousseau

Membership: Steven Graeber

Publicity: Sheryl Mueller

Asst. Pub.: Tom Saville

Education: Dick Schaffer

Touring-Day: Mike Thompson

Touring-Centuries & Overnighters:

Pam Cullop

Editor: Suzanne Couvrette

Assistant Editor: Bridget Owers

Volunteer: Donna

Web Master: Alicia Feurer

Cycling Advoc.: Richard Forcier

Special Projects: Chris Toal

Asst. Spec. Projects: Garry Segerman

Shed Masters: Tom Chabot &

Pat Young

Social Director: OPEN

We all welcome these current and new Board Members! Under the guidance and leadership of our President, Wayne Cullop, GABA-Tucson is planning a great cycling year!

Feb. 10th: Training Ride, about 100 moderate miles in Santa Cruz Valley, coaching available.

Feb. 17th: Training Ride, about 120 miles, towards Coolidge, coaching available.

Feb. 24th: Coolidge Century 100 miles @ fast pace, coaching available. (See Update to register.)

March 2nd: Le Grande. 65 miles (add another 45 mi = 110), coaching available. (You need to pre-register for this ride.)

March 9th: Training Ride, about 120 fast miles, coaching available.

March 16th: Long Training Ride of 135 planned-pace miles, coaching available.

March 23rd: Training Ride, about 80 easy miles, coaching available.

March 30th: The John Farr Desert Double Century. 200 miles.

In addition to these weekend training rides, you will need to ride at least three times during the week, an average of 30 to 45 minutes each time in January; 40 to 60 minutes each time in February; and 50 to 75 minutes each time in March. Other important coaching points will be conveyed during the training rides.

Mark your calendar for next Sept. 29 to Oct. 5, 2002! A Committee is being formed with Rich Corbett as Tour Chair for the 2002 Tour. Anyone interested in being on this Committee should call Rich as 623-0017.

More details next month on planned route, ride fee, etc.

The Board held its first meeting of the new year after being appropriately elected at the general meeting. This year, we have five new members, with the addition of Tom Saville, Donna Lewandowski, Garry Seger-man, Mike Thompson and Steve Wilson. Actually Garry came to the board meeting to help with the new club jerseys and was recruited on the spot!

Some current board members have changed their duties: Sheryl Mueller, who was our Social Director last year, has now become responsible for all of the club's publicity, as Publicity Director, with the assistance of Tom Saville. Together, they will generate ads, interface with the bike shops, and handle the promotional booths.

Pam Cullop has moved from Day Touring Coordinator to Overnight and Century Coordinator. She will insure that we have ride leaders well in advance of the events, and see that the rides are done without a hitch.

Chris Toal, Vice President last year, has taken an "at large" position on the board. He (and Garry) will be helping out as Special Projects Coordinators. They will be representing GABA at various meetings, such as the Bicycling Advisor Committee and Safe Routes to Schools Program.

New board members are Donna Lewan-dowski, Mike Thompson and Steve Wilson. Donna is the new Volunteer Coordinator, and will also handle mail distribution. Mike is coming back to a position he held several years ago, Day Ride Coordinator. Help him out and volunteer to lead a day ride! Steve, our new Vice President, will be helping out wherever needed and learning the GABA "ropes".

With these additions and changes to the Board, I hope we can continue to improve GABA's response to our members' needs, and to enhance GABA's public image in the Tucson community, as well as bicyclists' image in general.

Come experience a very unique ride through beautiful, historic, remote Sonora River Valley in Mexico, a political center in the 17th and 18th centuries rich in Spanish Missionaries and history of Apache raids! It is now a ranching agricultural area with unchanged villages, wonderful old churches and beautiful plazas!

This 2-day, 100-mile biking "adventure" with full escort, goes from the mining town of Cananea, to quaint El Ranchito, with light local traffic and patient courteous drivers.

The paved route goes through the Sonora Mountains with steep ascents and descents, and along the Sonora river valley with several sandy or wet river crossings!

The culmination of the Tour is at a beautiful natural Hot Springs (bring SWIMSUIT) with farewell Mexican dinner by our hosts.

Expect a cultural experience with formal gatherings in village plazas for an official welcome by the local mayor, our hosts' dinner (probably not vegetarian), a lot of attention and interest from local people, and many other unpredictable events as one can expect in Mexico!

Ride Cost: $125 per rider.

Deadline to sign up: before 3/30/02.

Your fee includes:

1. Overnight camping on Friday night in Continental School Cafeteria;

2. Coffee & bagels on Saturday morning;

3. A commemorative T-shirt;

4. Transportation from Continental School in Green Valley for participants, bikes & luggage to the start of the ride in Cananea;

5. Sag food & lunches on the road after we leave Cananea;

6. Dinner and camping indoors on Saturday night (sorry, no showers, but hot springs on Sunday afternoon);

7. Sunday breakfast;

8. Farewell dinner at Hot Springs on Sunday afternoon;

9. Transportation back to Green Valley.

Meet at Continental School in Green Valley on Saturday, 4/6, at 4 AM. Camping available in School Cafeteria if you don't want to get up so early! DIRECTIONS: Take I-19 south to Continental Exit, at south end of Green Valley; turn left (east) on Continental Rd. for approx. 1 mile; then turn right on White House Canyon Rd., (road to Madera Canyon) for 2 miles to school.

On Sunday, 4/7 arriving back in Green Valley around 10 PM.

DAY 1: Cananea to Arizpe - 60 miles

DAY 2: Arizpe to El Ranchito - 40 miles

Make checks payable to Continental School HATB Bike Ride and mail to: Continental School Bike Ride, P. O. Box 547, Green Valley, AZ 85622.

What to bring: Birth Certificate or Pass-port; $20 for Mexican Visa; camping gear for Friday night at Continental School and Saturday night in Arizpe; swimsuit & towel for hot springs; flat repair kit and pump.

Helmets are mandatory. You must pre-register for this ride. Use the generic pre-registration on page 11 of your Update. Limited to 35 riders, so register early! Suitable for either mountain or road bikes.

For info, contact Tom Ward, 520-625-3649, or twardasso@dakotacom.net, or Randy Aronson, 520-648-3876, etboyyrd@ animalcarecenter.com

Money earned goes to sister schools in El Ranchito, La Estancia and San Pablo, Sonora.

Two options to choose from!

96 very hilly scenic miles!

Or 66 hilly scenic miles!

"Climb. Climb. Then climb some more! That's the Mining Country Challenge. It's not for everyone, but if you have aspirations to really put your climbing abilities to the test, this is the ride for you."

Terry Wright

Organized by Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club (Phoenix Metro GABA).

This year, you will have two challenging routes to choose from. The Classic 96 mile Century with 6,000 vertical feet of climbing and the New 66 mile Metric Century with only 2,215 vertical feet of climbing; however, the challenge in this route will be the "End of the World", a 1.5 mile long 11% grade ascent!

Registration is from 7 AM to 8:30 AM

The Century starts at 8:30 AM*

The Metric Century starts at 9 AM*

*New this year will be Mass Starts for both events.

Where: Registration and Start will take place in Old Town Superior at the Chamber of Commerce at 350 Main Street. The Finish is at the intersection of Magma Ave. and Main St.

Directions: From Tucson, take Hwy 77 north to Oracle Junction, then Hwy 79 north until you get to Florence Junction. Then, take Hwy 60 east to Superior. Main Street is less than a mile on the north side of the Highway.

Parking Restrictions: No Parking will be permitted on Main Street West of Magma Ave. The Town of Superior will be holding their 14th annual Superior Mountain Festival and will close the street for the festivities.

Fees:

PMBC/GABA/ABC Members: $10

Non-Members: $15

Late Fee after March 2: $10

Other Questions:

E-mail ride director Robert McClure at flamingredbikes@hotmail.com or call (480) 834-0430. More forms and other ride information are available at www.sportsfun.com/gaba

Make checks payable to:

PMBC, P. O. Box 26788, Tempe, AZ. 85285-6788. Use Generic Pre-Registration Form on Page 15.

by Jennifer Michela, R.D., L.D.N.

(Registered Dietitian with an interest in sports nutrition who has crewed for RAAM during the last 2 summers.)

Many riders have taken some kind of pill, shake or powder that they claim gives them energy, speeds their recovery time, or decreases muscle pain. Recently, there has been some useful research done to guide athletes toward health and improved performance; but several products make claims that have not been proven. Do you know how to read the labels and decipher between useful supplements and those which are ineffective and possibly harmful?

My goal in writing this article is to provide you with an unbiased opinion about some of the supplements with an overview of scientific literature taken from studies performed at the University of Memphis, and Tufts University, and from journals such as the International Journal of Sports Nutrition, the American Journal of Physiology, and the Journal of the American Dietetic Association.

An ergogenic aide is a supplement taken to give a "competitive edge" or improve performance beyond one's normal limits.

Creatine has recently become one of the most popular ergogenic aides marketed to athletes. Creatine is an amino acid synthesized from three amino acids--glycine, arginine, and methionine. Humans require 2 grams of creatine per day, which is obtained through food, mainly meat and fish, or synthesized in the body.

According to a University of Memphis study, short-term creatine supplementation (15- 25 grams per day for 7 days) has been shown to increase total muscle creatine content by 15-30% and improve strength, sprint performance and endurance. Long-term supplementation (2-25 grams a day) has promoted significant gains in strength, performance and fat-free mass either due to increased muscle mass or water retention.

By ingesting a carbohydrate drink (fruit juice, non-diet cola, or sports drink) at the same time creatine is consumed, creatine accumulation in the muscle increases by up to 60% and glycogen levels also increase, further enhancing athletic performance. Ingesting taurine and electrolytes in conjunction with creatine may also increase the effects of creatine.

While not all studies report ergogenic benefits, most studies indicate that creatine is safe. There are concerns about muscle cramping and increased muscle injuries as well as gastrointestinal distress. I do not advise anyone with any kind of kidney problem or diabetes to use this supplement.

Caffeine is a stimulant that has well doc-umented ergogenic effects affecting the body in several different ways. One way caffeine improves performance is by affecting the central nervous system causing increased neuronal excitability, consequently reduc-ing reaction time. Another theory is that it increases free fatty acid oxidation so that fatty acids are used for energy in place of glycogen (your body's main source of energy used during exercise). This allows glycogen levels to be maintained for a longer period of time, allowing you to ride longer.

Caffeine research shows that consuming about 1.4-2.7 mg of caffeine per pound of body weight can improve endurance by 20- 50% without raising urinary caffeine levels above the International Olympic Committee limit of 1200 mg. Therefore, a 175- pound man will need 245-472 mg of caffeine which can be obtained by drinking 24 oz of tea or 2 cups of coffee.

Coffee, 8 oz brewed, drip method (165), Coffee, 8 oz instant (95), Tea, 10 oz brewed (80-120), Iced tea, 12 oz (70), Diet Pepsi (35), Pepsi (40), Coke (45), Diet Coke (45), Mountain Dew (55).

Anacin, 2 tablets (32), Excedrin, 1 tablet (65), No Doz, 1 tablet (100), Dexatrim, 1 tablet (100), Vivarin, 1 tablet (200).

Possible caffeine side effects include dizzi-ness, headache, insomnia, nausea, gastro-intestinal distress, muscle tremors and palpitations. Try using it 1-2 weeks before an event to gauge its effectiveness. Regular caffeine intake will lessen its beneficial side effects due to the body's ability to develop a tolerance to it. To get the maximum caffeine benefits, don't use it daily; consume it one hour before an event.

Because caffeine is a known diuretic, it is important to drink adequate fluids before, during and after exercise. But since caffeine increases urine production, you may want to avoid caffeinated beverages after exercise when trying to replace fluid losses.

Surveys show that about 75% of all athletes take some type of vitamin supplement ranging from a simple one-a-day vitamin to a concoction of "miracle" pills. Vitamins are organic molecules that regulate biochemical reactions in the body. They must be obtained through diet because they cannot be manu-factured in the body. You need adequate vitamins to function optimally, but there is no scientific evidence to prove that extra vitamins give a competitive edge. They will not increase your strength or endurance, provide energy or build muscles.

Athletes may not have increased vitamin and mineral needs because they consume more calories than inactive people, thus more vitamins and minerals. If you wish to take a supplement as "health insurance", take a one-a-day standard multivitamin. Remem-ber, a supplement does not compensate for a high-fat, unbalanced diet!

- Select a broad-range multivitamin and mineral supplement with vitamin A, C, D, E, K and all the B vitamins as well as iron, calcium, boron, chromium, copper, zinc, magnesium, manganese, and selenium.

- Choose a supplement with vitamins and minerals close to 100% of the Daily values. (Calcium and magnesium will be less because they are too bulky to put in one pill.

- Don't buy supplements that contain excessive doses of vitamin and minerals which can produce toxic side effects.

- Choose a supplement with beta-carotene, not vitamin A. Beta-carotene, the precursor to vitamin A, acts as an antioxidant.

- To maximize absorption, take your supplement with or after a meal.

- There is no proof that time-release or chelated vitamins (vitamins chemically bound to an amino acid) are better absorbed.

You can get the vitamins and minerals you need by eating a variety of wholesome foods. However, iron can be an exception. Iron is a necessary component of hemoglobin, the protein that transports oxygen from the lungs to working muscles. If you fatigue easily, iron deficient anemia could be the reason. (Men are susceptible to iron overload because of low iron requirements, so check with your doctor before taking an iron supplement. Iron overload can cause damage to your liver, pancreas, or heart.)

Cyclists are at risk for iron deficiency, especially those who train in hot climates or ride in endurance races, because they may lose significant amounts of iron through heavy sweat losses. Vegetarians and athletes who don't eat red meat may not be getting enough iron. The best sources of iron are lean beef, lamb, pork, turkey/chicken dark meat, and breads/cereals with the words "iron-enriched" or "fortified" on the label. Eat these foods with a source of vitamin C such as orange juice with cereal or tomato on a sandwich to enhance iron absorption.

Strenuous exercise increases production of free radicals which can cause muscle damage, increase muscle soreness and increase risk for heart disease or cancer. Riding in cities or smoggy areas also increases exposure to free radicals. Anti-oxidants such as vitamins C and E neutralize free radicals before they can cause damage and may aid in muscle recovery. Regular exercise increases the efficiency of the antioxidant defense system which decreases the need for increased antioxidant intake.

Before spending your money on an expensive supplement or gulping down a handful of pills, spend some time researching! A good place to start is on the Internet-be sure that the information is from reputable sources. Or ask a Registered Dietitian or a nutri-tionally oriented physician. Always test new supplements during training--never during a race. Supplements are not a substitute for a healthy diet and training!

Copyright by the UltraMarathon Cycling Association, reprinted with permission. For information about the UMCA and UltraCycling magazine, go to www. ultracycling.com/about/about.html

by Richard E. "Rich" Corbett & Heather T. Bulitta, Certified Cycling Instructors & Coaches

Everyone knows you need to "train" in order to ride farther and/or faster.

Understanding some basic facts about exercise will help your training to be of better quality, especially when joined with some knowledgeable coaching.

Aerobic training (Heart Rate 60-80% of maximum, or a pace that allows brief conversation.)

Lactate threshold training (HR 80-90% of maximum, or a pace high enough for single words, but not whole sentences.)

Anaerobic training (Hill work, weight training, when your muscles scream at you Stop!- Stop! )

Rest (Easy rides or days off during the week, "plateaus" at one level of work before moving on to the next higher level.)

Most of one's early training rides are aimed at developing your aerobic engine. A good aerobic base is the foundation upon which the rest of the training program is built. Aerobic rides train your body to utilize glycogen and fat stores more efficiently and improve your oxygen delivery system by conditioning your heart to pump more blood volume with each heartbeat.

Over time this translates to an increased cycling efficiency, allowing you to use less energy for the amount of work done (or do more work for the same amount of energy). You'll develop excellent endurance. Long rides and mid-week training rides done at "pace", the steady speed at which you intend to ride your event, develop your aerobic capacity.

Once you have a good aerobic base, you will next start training your body to remain aerobic at higher work levels. You can accomplish this by doing repeated short intervals of harder work with easy recovery in between. During these inter-vals, you will be breathing heavily, your muscles will ache, and you will feel fatigued. Intervals should be followed by a rest day (a day off or a day of easy riding).

The rest days are crucial to help your body adapt to this new type of work. The intervals themselves train your muscles to continue functioning despite rising lactic acid levels. It is while you are resting, that your body makes the adaptations that allow you to remain aerobic longer while working harder. It does this by developing new net-works of blood vessels to feed the muscles. Better blood flow to the working muscles means more oxygen is delivered and waste products are flushed away faster. Both these changes allow you to work harder, longer, before you feel fatigued.

Three to five repeats of 5-12 minute inter-vals done at 80 to 90% of your maximum heart rate, interspersed with 2-5 minutes of rest (or until your heart rate returns to about 60% of max) will give this type of lactate threshold training. Sustaining a steady "brisk" pace 2-4 mph faster than your planned event pace, for an hour or so is a way to produce similar results.

Anaerobic training is critical for racers and long distance riders, but not as important for recreational riders. This type of training increases muscular strength needed for sprinting and hill climbing. It recruits a different type of muscle fiber than that used for aerobic work, and trains the body for short bursts of very intense effort.

Attacking hills, charging up them at full effort, is one type of anaerobic training. Short sprints are another (interval work done at full effort). Do this type of training with a riding partner to keep your enthusiasm up. It is punishing work!

Lifting weights develops muscle strength but will not raise your lactate threshold as hill attacks and sprint intervals will. If you choose to lift weights, seek the advice of a qualified trainer. Eliminate weight lifting as your event draws closer.

Rest is crucial to your development as a cyclist. It allows muscle tissue to rebuild, blood vessels to grow, and keeps you mentally fresh. Rest for 2 days each week. One of these days should be "active recovery", spinning along easily at low effort. Use this day to ride with slower or beginning friends, or to explore new places at a leisurely pace. Keep your distance moderate and your heart rate just below 60% of maximum. You should be able to chat easily and sing out loud (if you are so inclined!). Pick a beautiful, low traffic route at a nice time of day and just enjoy being out there on your bike. This is why you love to ride!

At the January Board meeting, the new members were welcomed and introductions made. The responsibilities for each Board member were outlined and discussed.

The Board discussed Social Activities for the year and agreed upon a Spring Picnic/BBQ to be held March 23rd and an Ice Cream Social to be held on June 8.

Discussion was held on the plans for the new Club Jersey to be available later this year.

Requirements for Proof of Membership at the bicycle shops was discussed and resolved. An article will be placed in the Update to inform all GABA members.

Respectfully Submitted

Sandi Rousseau, Secretary

We’ve marked a milestone! Sonoita-Bisbee, once ridden in the spring and the fall, will mark its 20th year of scenic riding this spring!

The ride starts as usual at the Santa Cruz County Fair Grounds in Sonoita. With the wind at our back (hopefully), we travel east on State Route 82 to the intersection with SR 80 where cyclists turn south towards Tombstone.

Then it’s on to Bisbee over Mule Pass and time to socialize. This year, the choice is either camping in a City Park or lodge in one of Bisbee’s many historic hotels, motels and Bed & Breakfasts. However, look for something different for dinner, and even possible entertainment! Watch for more information on this in the March Update.

The course takes you along grassy high meadows and scenic valleys of Southern Arizona, from Sonoita to Mustang Corners (sag stop #1), to Tombstone. After lunch and a walk along the famous Tombstone Boardwalk to visit small shops and museums, return to your bike and continue southeast.

Enjoy majestic views of the Huachuca Mountains to the west as you descend to the base of Mule Pass (sag stop #2). Here, don’t forget to refuel! This is the last sag stop before a steady 6-mile climb that brings you to the tunnel at the top! As you ride through the tunnel, you are starting the long descent into Bisbee nestled in Tombstone Canyon! Quaint small shops and artists galleries will charm you as you stroll along the narrow twisted streets of this “turn-of-the-century” mining town!. Your luggage will be waiting you at your destination.

The return trip takes you back up to the tunnel, either via the main highway, or through the narrow winding Tombstone Canyon road.

You could continue on this road to the TOP of the tunnel, with spectacular views, or just go through the tunnel on your way to the major descent of this day! As you were climbing the 6-mile Mule Mountain Pass, did you think how great it would be to go the other way? Well, here it is! Safely enjoy this great descent!

At the bottom, make a turn towards Sierra Vista on SR 90 and continue down to the crossing of the San Pedro River. (Sag #1) A little climb with great views of the Huachuca Mountains and you are now in Sierra Vista. Turn right at the junction of Hwy 90 and 92, and you are now on the By-Pass which will bring you to Huachuca City.

Here the road has been totally redone. Watch for the left turn to Sonoita at the junction with Hwy 82 (sag #2). The third leg of this journey back may bring you some headwinds - a traditional occurrence on this ride! A little more climb, with scenic mountain scenes at the horizon, and you are now back in Southern Arizona grasslands, and close to the finish in Sonoita. We’ll have a treat for you when you arrive at the Fair Grounds!

Make your reservations early as Bisbee Inns can fill up quick

1. Bisbee Grand Hotel: 800-421-1909

2. Hotel LaMore: 888-432-5131

3. Copper Queen Hotel 800-247-5829 4. High Desert Inn 800-281-0510

5. Inn at Castle Rock 800-566-4449

6. Jonquil Motel 520-432-7371

7. Main Street Inn B&B 800-467-5237

8. School House B&B 800-537-4333

9. Piranha Bistro/Hotel 520-432-1832 or 432-6836

10. Walker Guest House 520-432-4829

12. Chamber of Comm. 520-432-5421

Make plans ahead of time! Send your pre-registration early! And make your reservations early if you are planning to Motel or Bed & Breakfast it.

Ride leader: Dick Schaffer, 520-326-4807. Volunteers are needed to drive the baggage truck and deliver the luggage to the appropriate locations to help with registration. Contact Dick as soon as possible.

$40 for members, $45 for non-members.

$5 for Saturday dinner.

$5 for Sunday breakfast.

$50 for Members after April 3rd and $55 for non-members

(Tickets provided to all riders who have prepaid for the meals.)

Day of event fee: $60 for members and $65 for non-members.

1. Camping at the Santa Cruz Fairgrounds in Sonoita on Friday night before the ride;

2. Safe parking for you car at the Fairgrounds for the weekend;

3. Sag support along the route and two sag stops with ice water, fruit and snacks;

4. Baggage truck to deliver your luggage at camping site or at your B & B (tag your duffel bag with hotel tags at start of ride);

5. Delicious group dinner for $5 at 5:30 PM on Saturday evening;

6. Camping in Bisbee on Saturday night at City Park away from traffic, yet convenient to the central area of town; (You are on your own for Bed & Breakfasts: (see motel list below);

7. Route map and riders instructions.

8. A commemorative 20th anniversary T-shirt

9. More to be announced in March

In Sonoita at the Fairgrounds (follow GABA signs) on Saturday morning.

Register between 6:30 AM and 8:30 AM. Baggage truck will depart no later than 9 AM. Sign in, drop off your duffel bag labeled with color-coded motel tags, and pick up your map & riders instructions. Then, start riding as soon as you are ready!

By John Arle, GABA Phoenix

Several Club members have expressed concerns to me regarding safety on our group rides, well, actually the occasional lack thereof. Since these issues have been brought to my attention on more than one occasion, I felt they deserved some attention.

Pacelines are the issue. First, how much of the roadway should we take? With a bike lane, we should be able to ride in double formation and still remain within the lane. If the far right of the lane has debris, and riding double results in the left line being outside the bike lane, then the group should have the collective wisdom to single out.

Moving the line to the left of the bike lane is a mistake that will promote disfavor from our wheeled friends with whom we share the road. There is enough unreasonable, un-knowing, and unaware behaviors exhibited toward cyclists. Our riding habits should make every effort to minimize aggravation, not stimulate it!.

How should we ride when there is no bike lane? Common sense should dictate singling out. Some of our routes are relatively narrow. Many of these roads are not heavily driven by cars, but nonetheless, riding double consumes the entire lane! When sharing a single lane, this simply isn't wise; we should, once again, single out.

I am certain I am guilty of these violations myself. Our social nature compels us to ride side-by-side so we can talk and enjoy each other's company. This, however, will be a little consolation if, or when, an accident occurs. We have all seen close calls! This is one of the reasons I now limit the number of "race" zones on the Spin Cycle rides. The competition was com-promising safety.

A secondary issue is the consistency of our pacelines. Both the Spin Cycle and Saturday Cycling rides break into speed groups. These pacelines need to work together to establish a consistent speed. Frequently, the lines fluctuate as much as 3 to 4 miles per hour. Often, a strong rider evolves to the front and bumps the pace up 5 mph only to be followed by a weaker rider that drops the pace right back down. This is brutal at the back of the line, creating "yo-yo-ing" that causes wheels to overlap and riders to go down.

The answer is simple: find a good pace for everyone in the paceline and hold it. Don't pick up the speed when it's your turn at the pull unless "the team" can do it! If you have been in the line working at your maximum and you tire, just break off the back and wait for the trailing group to catch you. Nine times out of ten, someone else is tiring too and will break off with you.

A spin-off of the pace problem is what commonly happens at stop-lights. Try to keep in formation. Slower riders shouldn't slide up past faster riders. This just causes them to have to pass as soon as the light changes. Again, this is courtesy that is easily accomplished if we just pay attention.

Lastly, point out those road hazards! We've had several accidents as of late, that were directly caused by hazards that were not pointed out. This is the initial responsibility of the lead rider. Then, each following rider must pass the signal back. The lead rider must give the hazard a generous berth and start to move away from it early and gradually. Obviously, the leader's eyes must be down on the road! The safety of everyone behind you depends on it.

We all know these cyclists truths to be self evident. And yet, on any given weekend, we can find examples of them being broken. What do we do? What should we do? Do we sound like jerks if we say anything? An accident will retro-spectively answer all of these questions for us. We surely want to avoid that. Each of us need to take the initiative to keep the group, and the individuals in it, as safe as possible. Speak up! Say what needs to be said, but do it in a courteous and caring way. We'll all be safer for it.

You Are Invited To join us!

For GABA's

2nd Annual

On Saturday, March 23rd.

Mark your calendar; this is an event you simply don't want to miss! If you were amongst the 100 or so who joined us last year to celebrate the Club's 20th Anniversary, then you already know that you will have a great time!

As last year, the Club will supply the sodas and meats. We ask that each of you bring another picnic food to share - last year's side dishes were out of this world!

The barbecue volunteers will begin grilling the hamburgers, hot-dogs and chicken at 11 AM.

The lawn is big enough that those interested can play volleyball or toss horseshoes. A small playground is close enough for the little ones to run off some energy, and you can visit while keeping an eye on them.

Bring your lawn chairs, blankets, and sunscreen. Then get ready to visit with old friends and make some new acquaintances

Meeting Place: Himmel Park; Northeast corner (near the library) on First Street, between Sawtelle and Treat Avenues.

Time: 10:30 AM to ?

More info in the March issue.

We look forward to seeing you there!

2002

By Dick Schaffer, Educational Director

Wednesday, Feb. 6. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Columbus Library, Columbus & 22nd, SE corner.

Monday, March 25. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Wilmot Library, 530 N. Wilmot.

APRIL: Maintenance Workshop

Thursday, April 25. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Udall Center, 7200 E. Tanque Verde.

Outside in Ramada #3. Look for GABA sign.

6:30 to 8 PM.

Woods Library, 3455 N. First Avenue.

Tuesday, June 4. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Himmel Library, 1035 N. Treat.

Monday, August 13. 7 to 9 PM.

Udall Center, 7200 E. Tanque Verde.

Outside in Ramada #3. Look for GABA sign.

Wednesday, Sept. 18. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Columbus Library, Columbus & 22nd St., SE corner.

Tuesday, Oct. 22. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Wilmot Library, 530 N. Wilmot.

Wednesday, Nov. 6. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Himmel Library, 1035 N. Treat.

By Ron Georg

Moab, Utah. Mountain Biking made the small town of Moab famous. Usually, the bicycles on the road in the area are strapped to the roofs of SUVs, pointed toward a trailhead.

That will change March 7 to 10, as Moab hosts the 1st Moab Skinny Tire Festival. The event, which is a fundraiser for the Lance Armstrong Foundation, will celebrate the smooth side of cycling with road rides through some of the country's most spectacular scenery!

Aside from this area's attraction for mountain bikers, the landscape around Moab draws hundreds of thousands of visitors a year who are just enjoying the view. There is no better way to enjoy the sights than from a bicycle, unencumbered by the distractions of driving.

At its core, the Festival will feature four days of fully-supported group road rides. Two days of riding will follow the sinewy path of the Colorado river through its deep canyon, along relatively flat routes. The other two days will feature climbs out of town onto the uplifts high above the river. The highlight of the event will be a tour into Arches National Park, one of the most attractive strips of asphalt anywhere!

After the rides, local businesses and organizations will host a variety of activities. Most will be related to cycling, especially if you consider that beer is fuel to a cyclist! One of the goals of the Festival organizers is to tap into the innate sense of community most cyclists enjoy.

Since part of any cyclist's focus is health, most can also appreciate the Lance Armstrong Foundation's cause, fighting cancer. Through grants to small researchers, as well as education and outreach programs, the LAF seeks to empower cancer patients through deeper understanding of the disease.

As anyone who's read Armstrong's book, "It's not about the Bike" knows, this is not a somber effort. It's not about facing the Reaper, but about embracing life. Using bike rides as fundraisers encourages that spirit, helping people to focus their energy towards the LAF's goal--which is one we all share.

Riders can participate on different levels. Full registration, which will include entry in a raffle for a Trek road bike frame like Lance's, is $55, plus a $100 donation to the LAF. Fully-registered participants will also be eligible to earn a two-day river trip for the top fundraiser. Or, for $15 and a $10 donation, riders can enjoy one day's worth of rides and activities.

For more information about the Festival, including registration materials, check out www.poisonspiderbicycles.com and www.e-healthperformance.com, or call Poison Spider Bicycles at 435-259-3052.

By Luann Haley

As it is time for Tucson to join other "mountain bike friendly" cities in having mountain bike patrols on area trails, leaders from Pima County Parks, Pima Trails Association, and Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists (SDMB) have taken the initial steps to form a patrol for the trails in Pima County. With goals of providing assistance, education and information to local trail users, the newly formed group will begin their service on area trails in the spring of 2002. Currently, the founding members of this group are seeking the support of local mountain bicyclists to volunteer for this worthwhile project.

The group will be volunteer driven and early notes of thanks should go to Steve Coleman and John Fleming for their work in initiating the program, setting up training for the volunteers, and organizing the expected patrols. Steve and John are both members of SDMB, a group that has taken the lead locally on issues that are important to all mountain bike enthusiasts.

John and Steve, coordinators for the patrol, first began their training for this program one year ago in California at an IMBA (International Mountain Bike Association) training session. This program included patrol leaders from across the nation and provided a unique opportunity to exchange ideas on trail safety and access in all areas of the United States.

In addition to this IMBA certification, Steve brings many years of experience from his work as a contractor and John, his valuable experience from government service with the USGS. Both men are avid cyclists and are well equipped to train the patrol and lead this program through its initial year in Tucson.

Training for the first patrol class is now scheduled for February 23rd and 24th in Tucson, and it is hoped that there will be at least 20 cyclists in attendance. The two-day session will have a full day of first aid training along with CPR certification for each of the participants. The second day will provide training for general bike maintenance, minimal impact riding and conflict resolution. Clearly, the program is designed to help with many of the problems that cyclists encounter on the trails. All patrol members must complete this training before they begin patrol assignments and future training programs may be scheduled depending on the interest and enthusiasm of local riders.

In order to assist with emergencies on the trails, the patrol members will carry cell phones donated by Joe Cristiani. Patrol members will also have first aid supplies and some tools for basic bike repairs on the trails. The patrol will be wearing jerseys with identification markings provided by Pima County Parks. In addition to providing assistance with mechanical and medical problems, the patrol will provide riders with trail information and general cycling courtesy. However, there is no current plan to provide the patrol with any specific enforcement authority through area agencies. It is hoped that Tucson cyclists will recognize the importance of this program and join with the patrol in promoting safety and congeniality on our local trails.

In the initial months of the program, the group plans to patrol the most frequently used trails for local mountain bike riders; that is, Tucson Mountain Park, Fantasy Island, and the trails off Golder Ranch Road. The group will begin the patrols during the high use day light hours on weekends. However, the zones and times of coverage may be expanded depending on the number and availability of the patrol members.

With groups such as the new mountain bike trail patrol, Tucson is moving forward as a city that is both friendly to cyclists as well as concerned with access issues for area trails.

If you have an interest in joining in this worthwhile project you can consult the website of SDMB at www.sdmb.org or contact the patrol leaders directly at:

Steve Coleman, Coordinator, 318-0915 or scol880990@aol.com

John Fleming, Coordinator, 792-9881 or psiklist@netscape.net

Hopefully, local cyclists will consider this call for all skilled mountain bike riders to "step (...or bunny hop!) up to the plate" and volunteer time for this project. The assistance that this group will provide may save a cyclist from serious injury, but most certainly will promote mountain bikers as the Good Samaritans of these popular Tucson trails!

On behalf of the children, families, and staff of Tu Nidito Children and Family Services, we want to thank each and every one of you for your participation in the El Tour de Tucson. El Tour raises critical funds for our programs to support children with serious illnesses, and those grieving the death of a loved one. We could not provide the level of support needed for children and families dealing with the most difficult time inaginable without the support of our community, and especially El Tour de Tucson. All the cyclists who participate in the ride truly are our children's Heroes!

I'd like to take this opportunity to share the stories of 3 special GABA bicyclists: Rudy Van Renterghem, Dick Barker and Elizabeth Campbell, who chose to ride their tandems with Tu Nidito kids in the 4-mile fun ride instead of riding El Tour's main events.

Rudy rode with 10-year-old Kyrie. He had to install special pedals on his bike so that she could ride with him. Rudy said, "This is my 19th El Tour and my shortest ride, but my most rewarding one"! If you could have seen the smile on Kyrie's face when she crossed the finish line, you would agree.

Dick Barker rode with 17-year-old Mike who is in remission from leukemia. Mike decided to give tandem riding a try. What a great experience for Mike! He practiced with Dick several times before the event. They actually rode about 10 miles! We expect to see them in the 31-mile event next year. Dick and Mike formed a bond that will last long after El Tour!

And finally Elizabeth Campbell, a nurse from UMC rode with 11-year-old Javier. They got a late start but still managed to finish before most of the other kids. Oh, and Elizabeth is pregnant!

These GABA cyclists gave their time, talent and energy to make a difference in the lives of our children when it counts the most.

Sincerely,

Debbie Rich

Tu Nidito Director of Development

At a recent Board meeting, your GABA-Tucson Board discussed the various ways that members can "prove" that they really are GABA members. The need may arise when members are making purchases at local bike shops who generously give a "GABA Discount".

Not to worry! It is very easy to prove that you are a GABA-Tucson member in good standing! All you have to do is cut out the label of your newsletter and stash it in your wallet. It has your name and the membership expiration date on it. This small piece of paper will come in handy when you go to your friendly neighborhood bike shop for major purchases: it may entitle you to a "GABA Discount"!

For your information, not all bike shops offer a discount; the rate of the discounts offered may vary between shops; and it may be given only on certain kinds of purchases. But, if you need it, you will be prepared to show your membership proof!

Overnighters & Centuries Evaluation Form

Your opinion matters to us. If you have recently participated in one of our Overnight or Century rides, we would appreciate your comments and suggestions. This knowledge will allow us to know where we may need to make improvements, and show us what we are doing well! Please take a few minutes to fill out this form and mail it to:

GABA-Tucson, P. O. Box 43273 Tucson, Az 85733. Thanks for your help!

Name of Ride: ______________________

1. What did you like best about this ride? ______________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

2. What did you like the least about this ride? ____________________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
3. Suggestions for possible changes or improvements: _______________________

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Only one 2002 Board position is still open: Social Director. This a very EASY and FUN job!

The Social Director is in charge of bringing the refreshments for the monthly meeting - that is ONCE a month on the first Monday of the month! What refreshments? That is left to his/her creativity!

In addition, the Social Director is in charge of bringing the "catered" dinner for the Board Meeting on the second Monday of the month. Again, what kind of food is up to the Social Director, with suggestions from the Board Members, of course!

All Board positions have many perks that come with it, such as free overnighters or centuries, for example!

Anyone interested? Please call President Wayne Cullop at 290-4321 for more info and to volunteer.

2002

By Dick Schaffer, Education Director

This year, GABA is offering a variety of safety, maintenance and Ride Leaders workshops. Here's the yearly schedule of what is planned. to give GABA-Tucson members a chance to plan ahead to attend these workshops.

It will be a Ride Leader workshop. As a Club, we want everyone to have a good time, ride safely and obey the rules of the road. The purpose of the Ride Leader workshop is to give all interested riders an under-standing of the responsibilities of a Ride Leader. We will cover all the "guidelines" determined by the Board, answer any questions and hand out the necessary useful forms that make the ride leader's life easier! All of this while sharing dinner. Pizza, anyone? Please call Dick at 326-4807 or e-mail at bikeschaf@aol.com to let him know you are coming!

Wednesday, February 6. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Columbus Library, Columbus & 22nd, SE corner.

Monday, March 25. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Wilmot Library, 530 N. Wilmot.

APRIL: Maintenance Workshop

Thursday, April 25. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Udall Center, 7200 E. Tanque Verde.

Outside in Ramada #3. Look for GABA sign.

Wednesday, May 22. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Woods Library, 3455 N. First Avenue.

Tuesday, June 4. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Himmel Library, 1035 N. Treat.

7 to 9 PM.

Udall Center, 7200 E. Tanque Verde.

Outside in Ramada #3. Look for GABA sign.

Wednesday, September 18. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Columbus Library, Columbus & 22nd St., SE corner.

Tuesday, October 22. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Wilmot Library, 530 N. Wilmot.

Wednesday, November 6. 6:30 to 8 PM.

Himmel Library, 1035 N. Treat.

This year, we say good bye to two very devoted Board Members: Jim Chapman and Helen Greer.

A year ago, Jim volunteered for the Publicity Director's job. He dove right in and did a super job contacting all the bike shops and getting their sponsor ads. He also made contact with the newspapers so that our rides would be publicized weekly to reach new potential members. Thanks Jim, and good luck in your new endevours!

Helen was our Overnighters and Centuries Director for the last 3 years! This job is a very difficult one, involving finding ride leaders for overnighters and centuries. Also part of the job, is the tedious task of overseeing each ride to ensure that the ride leader does what is needed to continue the high standards that GABA-Tucson has maitained over the years. Thanks, Helen for a job well done, and good wishes in your other ventures!

By Alicia Heiserer

As we rode down to the start, the weather was very mild and there seemed to be no wind. The stars and moon were bright overhead, perfect for a night ride. Things were looking up!

As we were heading east toward New Mexico, the sunrise over Texas Canyon was absolutely beautiful, coming up behind the mountains and highlighting the entire landscape. We could see for miles and miles ahead. And we knew we still had to ride for miles and miles!

We were ecstatic when we finally crossed the Arizona New Mexico border. We crested that last hill and looked below to Road Forks. We were both feeling strong, well fed and hydrated. We thought that the last 80 miles were going to go pretty smoothly. Around the 70 to 60 mile mark (left to go, that is) we started standing more. The sun was out fully and we were getting warm. There were some clouds in the distance and we

sure were hoping for a little shade. The terrain was still rolling and there was much to look at. Mary Jo was quite the stoker, taking care of everything while I just kept us going in the right direction. We were happy to hit Rodeo--only 50 more miles to go! Piece of cake!

As we entered Apache, there were more clouds overhead and we were grateful for the reprieve. About 5 miles down the road, it started to rain. Now for those of you who don't live in Arizona, the rain can be very cold here, especially after 90 degree heat! Donna asked if we needed our rain gear. No, we would ride through it, not much further to go and the rain in Arizona always stops.

Donna stopped to put things inside the cab. Murphy's Law says that the moment Donna wasn't with us we would need her! We did. It was very cold and started to hail and the hail hurt! 3 minutes later she pulled up with all our rain gear already out and ready for us. We grabbed our jackets and didn't bother drying off. The goal was just to

finish now, and the quicker the better! As we started out, lightning struck about 1000 yards off. So now we were riding in rain, hail, thunder and lightning!

With only 25 miles to go, we were more determined than ever to get this over as soon as possible! 5 more miles and the rain pretty much stopped, though lightning was still striking around us. Jackets came off. We finished the final climb out of Silver Creek and started the 8-mile slight downhill into Douglas, the longest 8-mile we'd ever ridden!

We turned south for the last mile into town and in our mind's eye we could see the finish! Our legs seemed to get new life as if they were heading for the barn! Donna was behind us blaring her horn. I really didn't think we could sprint after 251 miles, but we did sprint for the end!

(Alicia Heiserer and Mary Jo Erickson were the first place female tandem team, finishing the 252-mile event in 13:04:24)