Twenty Second Annual Answer to the Challenge 2005
SONOITA-BISBEE Spring Bike Ride
Join the Clean Air Fair for Healthier Air!
Catalina Highway Under Construction
GABA-Tucson Supporting Members
14th Annual El Tour de Phoenix
19th Annual Tour of the Tucson Mountains
Welcome, New and Renewing Members!
Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee News
Rock Bottom Desert Classic Cycling Tour
GABA’s Annual Ice Cream Social
Help! Fantasy Island IS Threatened!
Do Riders Pay $15 just for a Few Bananas and Some Cookies
Mt Lemmon Bicycle Travel Restricted at Construction Site
GABA-Tucson Board Planning Meeting Report
(See related articles in this issue
for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders
4/2 (Sat) El Tour de Phoenix PBAA
4/9 (Sat) Desert Classic ABC Richard Utterback
4/16 & 17 Sonoita-Bisbee Ride GABA-Tucson Suzanne Couvrette
4/29-30 & 5/1 Answer to the Challenge PMBC Dick Landis
4/30 (Sat) Ice Cream Social GABA-Tucson Pam Cullop
5/14 & 15 Salt River Canyon Tour GABA Tucson Kathy Mills
5/21 (Sat) Tour de Payson Phoenix Metro Bob Beane
5/28-30 Luna Lake Tour GABA-Tucson Rhonda Smith
Monday, May 2 at 7 PM
The Unusual Bike Show.
Weird, Whacky and Cool Bikes!
Functional and not so functional bikes!
Bikes that are "Works of Art", of "Science", and of the "Deranged"!
Ride or bring a bike to share.
A great meeting to bring a guest
and your camera too.
Contact Dave Griffis @ 325-3600 or
Email at dgriffis@griffisconsulting.com
if you have a special bike
you would like to show.
Everybody is welcome!
Have a program suggestion? Have a presentation you would like to make? Contact
Griff Griffis at 325-3600 or
Email him at
dgriffis@griffisconsulting.com.
Top of Page
Monday, April 4 at 7 PM
On April 4, Dick Hall and Susan Kifer-Hall present an amazing adventure in
France:
the Maritime Alps and Provence.
Dick and Susan are experienced bike tourists with adventures throughout the
world.
This is a meeting not to be missed.
Bring your brie, your beret,
and your questions.
Everybody is welcome!
Have a program suggestion? Have a presentation you would like to make? Contact
Griff Griffis at 325-3600 or
Email him at
dgriffis@griffisconsulting.com.
Top of Page
APRIL 2005
April 2 (Sat): EL TOUR DE PHOENIX XV. Organized by PBAA.
www.perimetercycling.com.
April 9 (Sat): DESERT CLASSIC. ABC. Ride Leader: Richard Utterback,
www.azbikeclub.com.
April 16 (Sat): BIKE SWAP - Phx. Phoenix Municipal Stadium. CAzB.
www.cazbike.com.
April 16 (Sat): RIDE FOR SIGHT. Phoenix Lions Club. To/from Phoenix Municipal
Stadium. www.phoenixlionsclub.com/.
April 16 & 17: SONOITA-BISBEE BIKE TOUR. GABA-Tucson. Suzanne Couvrette,
sgcouvrette@aol.com.
April 20 (Wed): PHOENIX MAYOR BIKE-TO-WORK DAY.
April 24 (Sun): BIKE TO BALL PARK. For a Baseball Game. In conjunction with
VALLEY BIKE WEEK, Phx.
April 24 (Sun): TTM XIX - TOUR OF THE TUCSON MOUNTAINS PBAA.
www.perimetercycling.com.
April 29-30 & May 1: ANSWER TO THE CHALLENGE. PMBC. www.sportsfun.com/gaba.
April 30 (Sat): ICE CREAM SOCIAL. GABA-Tucson. At McCormick Park. Organizer: Pam
Cullop, 290-4321 or pjcullop@comcast.net.
MAY 2005
May 6 (Fri): Mt Lemmon Hillclimb. GABA-Tucson. Steve Wilson, 749-9014 or wilsons@us.ibm.com.
Depending on road construction.
May 14 & 15: SALT RIVER CANYON TOUR. GABA-Tucson. Kathy Mills, 480-759-7675 or
www.bikegaba.org.
May 14 (Sat): WHISKEY OFF-ROAD MOUNTAIN BIKE. Prescott. Todd Sadow,
epicrides.com.
May 21: TOUR OF PAYSON. PMBC. www.sportsfun.com/gaba.
May 28-30: LUNA LAKE TOUR GABA-Tucson www. bikegaba,org
JUNE 2005
June 5 (Sun): MT HOPKINS HILLCLIMB MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. Tom Ward.
www.bikegaba.org
June 11 & 12: GRAND CANYON TOUR. ABC – Richard Utterback. www.azbikeclub.com
JULY 2005
July 4th (Mon): TOUR FOR TUCSON’S CHILDREN.
City of Tucson Parks & Rec.
July 9 & 10 : DAVE FREUND MEMORIAL WHITE MOUNTAIN TOUR. PMBC. www.sportsfun.com
July ?: TAYLOR HOUSE BENEFIT CENTURY. Absolute Bikes in
Flagstaff.
www.absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html
Top of Page
Proposed Programs for 2005
Subject to change; check monthly articles.
April: Cycling Europe: France. Susan Kifer and Dick Hall.
May: The Unusual bike Show. Weird, Whacky and Cool Bikes! Griff Griffis.
Top of Page
More than a bike ride—A cult
happening!
Friday, Saturday & Sunday April 29, 30 & May 1
There are three types of riders who attempt this ride. The racers start at first
light, stop only for Cytomax and water and arrive in beautiful downtown
Strawberry (population 35) ready for a full afternoon of sightseeing. The
tourists actually take time to look at the great scenery, enjoy the generous sag
stops, and arrive just early enough for a nap before dinner. The clueless
realize at mile 45 on the first day that they should be somewhere else.
Don’t be clueless. This ride covers 325 miles and 22,000 feet of climbing over
three days. The first day from Scottsdale to Strawberry climbs about 10,000 ft.
The second day to Prescott climbs another 6,600 ft. and crosses the inevitably
windy Prescott Valley. Distance on the third day is 127 miles. Be prepared for
cold in the mountains and heat crossing the desert. And sometimes (rarely) snow.
The crew from Landis Cyclery will transport your bags and provide sag stops with
snacks and water. They will also pick you up if you can’t go on, but space is
very limited. If you start, be prepared to finish!
LODGING: Strawberry accommodations are limited. If all hotels are full, call
Cheryl Holland at the Windmill Corner Inn (below) for additional suggestions:
Strawberry Lodge 928-476-3333
Strawberry Motel 928-476-3040
Windmill Corner Inn 928-476-3064
Strawberry Hill Cabins 928-476-4252 or 480-575-7866
Prescott baggage drop-off and pickup will be at the Super 8 Sheldon
St. which fills up early. Close by hotels are:
Super 8 (Sheldon St.) 800-800-8000
Motel 6 (Sheldon St.) 800-466-8356
Best Western (Gurley St.) 800-528-1234
Colony Inn (Gurley St.) 928-445-7057
Start: Friday, April 29. Check-in opens at 5:00 AM. First riders out at 5:30 AM,
last sag leaves at 6:30 AM. Slower riders, please start early.
Where: Landis Cyclery Scottsdale, Scottsdale Rd. & Shea Blvd., SE corner. For
additional information, call Dick Landis at 480-839-9383.
Top of Page
April 16 - 17, 2005
Join us for a weekend of camaraderie, fitness and fun in Bisbee! This ride is
for the fit rider who will enjoy a visit to this quaint old mining town, now an
arts colony, nestled in Southeast Arizona's mountains.
NEW COURSE THIS YEAR!
YOU MUST HAVE A PHOTO-ID TO RIDE THRU FORT HUACHUCA
"Special Dinner" this year again on Saturday evening at the historic Copper
Queen Hotel for $15 per person, where you will be able to carbo-load on pasta
and proteins (vegetarians are welcome) as well as delicious dessert, and
participate in our door prizes! Dinner available only to the first 100
pre-registered riders, so sign up early!
DAY ONE- approx. 69 miles:
The ride starts as usual at the Santa Cruz County Fairgrounds in Sonoita. With
the spring sun beckoning you to Bisbee and the wind at your back, travel east on
Hwy 83 TOWARDS ELGIN AND CANELO. The course takes you along grassy high meadows
and scenic valleys of Southern Arizona, via the winery country near Elgin and
the small village of Canelo to the back entrance of Ft Huachuca.
After showing your photo-ID, continue through the Fort, to the exit on Hwy 90.
Continue east on Buffalo Soldiers Trail past Ramsey Canyon to Nicksville on the
east side of the Huachucas to Bisbee via Miracle Valley.
As you near Bisbee, take a look on the left to the legendary Lavender Pitt, the
copper mine that made Bisbee famous. The views of majestic mountains grace your
ride, whichever way you look!
In Bisbee, 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! You
have the choice of either camping at Higgins Park (BRING TOWEL/SOAP) or lodging
in one of Bisbee's many historic hotels, motels and Bed & Breakfasts.
DAY TWO - approx. 60 miles:
The return trip on Sunday takes you back up to the tunnel, either via the main
highway, or through the narrow winding Tombstone Canyon road, on your way to the
major descent of this day! Prepare yourself for a 6-mile fast downhill with
great views of the Mule Mountains. Safely enjoy this great descent!
At the bottom, make a left towards Sierra Vista on Hwy 90; continue west as you
descend to cross the San Pedro river lined with large cottonwood trees. A little
more climb with great views of the Huachuca Mountains, and you are now in Sierra
Vista. At the junction of Hwy 90 and 92, turn right on the By-Pass toward
Huachuca City.
At the junction with Hwy 82, turn left towards to Sonoita. The third leg of the
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 grasslands country. After about 10 miles, turn south on Elgin
Road and away from the traffic of Hwy 82. Here, enjoy peaceful rolling back
roads as you approach the finish in Sonoita.
Motel List (updated 1/05)
Make your reservations early as Bisbee Accommodations can fill up quickly!
We will deliver luggage only to the following 13 places:
# on Map
1. Bisbee Grand Hotel: 800-421-1909 www.bisbeegrandhotel.com
5. Inn at Castle Rock: 800-566-4449 www.theinn.org
6. Main Street Inn: 800-467-5237 www.mainstreetinn.net
7. Oliver House: 520-432-1900 oliverhouse@theriver.com
9. School House Inn: 800-537-4333 home.earthlink.net/~schoolhouseinnbisbeeaz/
10. Canyon Rose suites 866-296-7673 www.canyonrose.com
11. Copper Queen: 520-432-4298 www.copperqueen.com
(NO BIKES ALLOWED IN HOTEL - CAN BE STORED IN GABA TRUCK.)
15. Jonquil Motel: 866-432-7371 www.jonquilmotel.com
18. Old Bisbee B&B 520-432-2080 www.oldbisbeebnb.com
23. 400 Club Suites 888-437-4263 www.bisbeerentals.us
27. Clawson House 520-432-7434 www.okproperty.com
30. OK St. Jailhouse: 800-821-0678 www.okrealtyinc.com
33. Walker Guest Apts. 520-432-4829
Chamber of Commerce 520-432-5421 www.bisbeearizona.com
(Numbers on left refer to location of these places on the Bisbee Map.)
Sonoita-Bisbee Ride Fee
Pre-registered Riders:
GABA/ABC Members: $45
Non members: $55
Sat. Copper Queen Dinner (first 100 riders only) $15
Sun. Breakfast -6 AM At Copper Queen $10
Day-of-Event Fee:
GABA/ABC members: $60
Non members; $70
Why not join GABA-Tucson today? Get our monthly newsletter delivered to your
door AND this ride at member price!
Add $15 for a one-year individual membership,
$18 for a family membership, or $10 for students.
HELMETS ARE MANDATORY.
Your fee includes:
1) Camping at Fairgrounds in Sonoita Friday night before the ride;
2) Safe parking for you car at the Fairgrounds for the weekend;
3) SAG Support along the route on both days if you need help;
4) 2 sag stops each day with water, fruit, snacks & lunch makings;
5) Baggage truck to deliver your luggage at camping site or at your hotel (tag
your dufflebag with hotel tags at start of ride);
6) Camping in Bisbee on Saturday night at Higgins Park (hot showers
off-site), near central area of town - BRING TOWEL/SOAP;
7) Route map and riders instructions.
Bisbee Street Map for Designated Lodging Facilities
Baggage will be delivered only to those places ~ Map Not To Scale ~
(Numbers on Map refer to Numbers listed on left of Lodging Names)
Starting Point:
Sonoita Fairgrounds: Intersection of Hwys 82 & 83. (Follow GABA signs)
Starting Time: Register between 6:30 and 7:30 AM. Baggage truck will depart no
later than 8 AM. Sign in, drop your dufflebag labeled with color-coded motel
tags. Pick up your map & riders instructions, and meal tickets. Start riding as
soon as you are ready!
Sunday Breakfast at 6 AM at the Copper Queen Hotel: Order from their menu -
including beverage, tax & gratuities: $10 per person. If interested, please
include with your ride fee, or if you have already registered, bring a check for
$10 payable to GABA-Tucson at the sign-in in Sonoita.
Ride leader: Suzanne Couvrette, (520) 891-4661 or e-mail at sgcouvrette@aol.com.
Volunteers needed! GABA Bucks awarded to all volunteers! Call Suzanne as soon as
possible.
Saturday Dinner Pasta Banquet Buffet
$15 per person. Must be paid at time of pre-registration.
Limited seating for only 100 people.
All fresh and homemade
by the Copper Queen Culinary Crew!
Antipasti Platter; Chicken Breast with Marinara Sauce; Cheese Tortellini
w/Alfredo Sauce; Farfelle Pasta with Fresh Vegetables; Roasted Red/Green
Peppers, Onions & Tomatoes; Garlic Bread; Fresh Seasonings;
Chef's Choice Dessert;
Coffee, Tea, Brewed Decaf Coffee.
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
SONOITA-BISBEE SPRING RIDE
APRIL 16 & 17, 2005
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies of this form are acceptable.
Please fill out all the blanks.
Leader: Suzanne Couvrette, (520) 891-4661 or sgcouvrette@aol.com
Return this form & your check to: GABA
P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733
EACH RIDER MUST HAVE PHOTO ID
TO RIDE THRU FORT HUACHUCA.
Option chosen: (Please circle)
Motel Name_______________________
Camping ___(BRING TOWEL & SOAP)
Vegetarian: Yes No (for SAG stops/meals)
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA/ABC Member: $45 $____
Non-member ride fee: $55 $____
Sat. Dinner at Copper Queen $15 $____
(First 100 Pre-Registered riders ONLY)
Sun. Brkfst 6 AM Copper Queen $10 $____
DAY-OF-THE-EVENT:
GABA/ABC member $60 $____
Non-member $70 $____
Total money enclosed: $______
I AM Currently a GABA member: yes no
NAME
(print)___________________________
ADDRESS_________________________
CITY______________ ZIP __________
PHONE _______________
E-Mail____________________________
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your signed WAIVER to each Form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are much appreciated.
Top of Page
Tucson AZ, Mountain Standard Time
| Sunrise | Sunset | |
| April 1 | 6:13 | 6:43 |
| April 7 | 6:05 | 6:47 |
| April 14 | 5:57 | 6:52 |
| April 21 | 5:48 | 6:57 |
| April 28 | 5:41 | 7:02 |
| May 1 | 5:38 | 7:04 |
| May 7 | 5:33 | 7:08 |
| May 14 | 5:37 | 7:13 |
| May 21 | 5:23 | 7:18 |
| May 28 | 5:19 | 7:23 |
Mark your Calendar for April 1-4,
2005
Click on www.tucsonaz.gov/caf
for the schedule of activities.
From April 1-4, many fun-filled activities are scheduled to help you "Do Your
Share For Healthy Air."
The Fair includes the 3rd annual Walk n’ Roll to School Day, historic walks,
bike rides and bike registrations, bike to the zoo, an exhibit of clean-fueled
vehicles, carpooling activities, transit promotions, contests and prizes, and
more!
And don't miss the Clean Air Jamboree Sunday, April 3 from Noon to 5 PM at Reid
Park's DeMeester Outdoor Performance Center. The Jamboree features music, kids
activities, clean-fueled vehicles display, bike maintenance tips, biodiesel fuel
demonstration, and environmentally related booths and information.
Call the Pima County Department of Environmental Quality at 740-3947 or click on
www.tucsonaz.gov/caf for the
schedule of activities. The Clean Air Fair is brought to you by local agencies
and businesses concerned about the air we all breathe.
Catalina Highway from Tanque Verde Rd. to Houghton Rd. is currently under
construction. The roadway will be widened to three lanes including two travel
lanes and a center turn lane.
As part of this construction, Catalina Highway will include 6-foot wide bike
lanes which are officially designated the Brad P. Gorman Memorial Bikeway. Bike
lanes will also be added to Catalina Highway between Houghton Road and the base
of Mt. Lemmon.
When possible, please utilize the Two New Bicycle Routes as indicated on the
map. The routes may be reviewed on the Tucson Metro Region Bike Map or at
www.pagnet.org/bikemap/bike_maps.htm. Drivers and cyclists are requested to use
extreme caution through the construction zone.
Top of Page
Alphabetical listing of GABA-Tucson's
Supporting Members. See back page for individual ads.
Abygail's Café 615-6280
Ajo Bikes 294-1434
Bicycles West 887-7770
Broadway Bicycles 296-7819
Fair Wheel Bicycles 884-9018
Green Valley Bike & Hike 393-7433
Irish, Peter 625-3930
New Body Studios 360-5912
Oro Valley Bicycle- 544-5999
2 locations 825-2751
Performance Bicycle 296-4715
Pima Street Bicycle 326-4044
R & R Bicycle 579-7829
Sabino Cycles 885-3666
Stevens, Andy, LMT 990-1459
Supergo Bike Shops 327-3232
TriSports.com 884-8743
Tucson Bicycles 577-7374
Wenberg, Susan, DC 326-1322
Yares, Greg, Realtor 323-9020
(Editor's Note: Supporting Members ads run for 1 year, July 1-June 30 the next
year. Ad sizes are 2" x 3". For info, contact Ram Salcedo, Bike Shop
Coordinator, salcedo@flash.net or 733-0230.)
Top of Page
May 14 & 15, 2005
Two options:
85 miles per day with all the hills or
65 miles per day with fewer hills!
NEW THIS YEAR:
Location for Sign-in, Weekend Parking and Baggage Loading: The Gila County
Courthouse, 1400 E. Ash (main street, on south side near Jack-in-the-Box). Load
your dufflebag in the baggage vehicle and pick up your map & ride instructions.
Start riding when ready, no later than 7 AM! Baggage van will depart by 7:15 AM.
Breakfast location (same as in previous years):
Joe’s Grill on Broad Street, between 6 AM and 7 AM. Take Broad Street off US 60
and follow it past Sycamore.
NEW THIS YEAR:
Buffet Dinner on Saturday night at Licano's Restaurant. Menu includes
enchiladas; tacos; tamales; rice, & beans; as well as chips & salsa; soda,
coffee, or tea for $17.50 per person. Minimum of 50 people needed for this
buffet!
Join us for the spectacular scenery and challenging hills of the Salt River
Canyon May 14 and 15. With over 6,500 feet of climbing on the first day, this
ride is for strong, experienced riders.
OPTIONS:
Choose the full 85 scenic hilly miles, or a 65-mile easier course. The full
course takes you from the mining town of Globe through desert vistas up into
pine trees and open vistas of the rocky canyon.
On the 1st day, the shorter version includes a 20-mile ride in the sag vehicle
to the 1st Sag Stop, eliminating about 3,000 feet of climb out of Globe. Both
options include the curvy steep descent to the bottom of the canyon, climbing up
and up on the other side, a downhill to Carrizo Creek and the final rolling
climb in the pine trees into Show Low. On the 2nd day, the course may be
shortened by a 20-mile sag van ride down the hill to Carrizo Canyon, or
"shorter-version" cyclists may just decide to tackle the full 85 miles and 5,000
feet of climbing.
If you decide on the shorter version with fewer hills, but still a good "scenic"
workout, call Kathy Mills ahead of time at 480-235-5052 or Email her at kmills@flusol.com
to reserve your seat in the sag van. First come, first serve.
It is important to re-hydrate yourself at each sag stop, even if you don't feel
thirsty. Consumption of enough calories over the course of the day will help you
feel strong until you reach your destination.
SALT RIVER CANYON BIKE RIDE COST:
PRE-REGISTERED RIDERS: GABA/ABC members: $65
Non-members: $75
DAY-OF-THE-EVENT: GABA/ABC members: $80
Non-members: $90
Why not join GABA-Tucson today? Get our monthly news-letter delivered to your
door AND this ride at member price!
Add $15 for a one-year individual membership,
$18 for a family membershhip, or $10 for students.
HELMETS ARE MANDATORY.
A minimum of 25 riders required for this event to take place. If there are not
25 committed & paid cyclists by 4/25, the ride will be canceled.
Fee includes camping at Fool's Hollow State Park in Show Low; baggage transport;
3 sag stops including a lunch stop each day; sag vehicles covering the route;
sag ride from campground to dinner & back; maps and riders instructions.
RIDE LEADER: Kathy Mills, 480-235-5052 (cell), 602-274-6725 (work) or Email
kmills@flusol.com. Rest stop and sag vehicle volunteers are needed. Earn GABA
bucks toward ride entry in another ride or GABA gear items! Contact Kathy in
Phoenix, or Dorothy Barth in Tucson at 323-7203, or at dorothybarth2443@msn.com
if you or your friends/family want to help.
SALT RIVER CANYON BIKE RIDE MOTEL LIST
IN GLOBE:
El Rey: (928)425-4427. Economy Inn: (928)425-5736.
El Rancho Motel: (928)425-5757. Motel 6: (928)425-5741.
Comfort Inn: (928)425-7575. Super 8: (928)425-7124.
Days Inn: (928)425-5500. Travelodge: (928)425-7008.
IN SHOW LOW:
Sleep Inn: (928)532-7323. Pool, jacuzzi, breakfast.
Kiva: (928)537-4542. Jacuzzi.
Best Western Paint Pony: (928)537-5773. (Ask for GABA rates - includes extended
continental breakfast.)
Days Inn: (928)537-4356. Motel 6: (928)537-7694.
Holiday Inn: (928)537-5115. Thunderbird : (928)537-4391.
Salt River Canyon Ride
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
May 14 & 15
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies of this form are acceptable.
Please fill out all the blanks.
Leader: Kathy Mills, (480) 759-7675 or
kmills@flusol.com
Return this form & your check to: GABA
P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733
Option chosen: (Please circle) 85mi 65mi
Motel ______________ Camping ___
Vegetarian: Yes No (SAG stops food/meal)
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA/ABC Member: $65 $____
Non-member: $75 $____
Mexican Buffet: $17.50 $____
DAY-OF-EVENT:
GABA/ABC members: $80 $____
Non-members: $90 $____
Total money enclosed: $______
I AM Currently a GABA member: yes no
NAME
(print)_________________________
ADDRESS________________________
CITY_________ ZIP _______
PHONE ________
E-Mail_________________________
CPSC-approved helmets mandatory.
STAPLE your signed WAIVER to each form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are much appreciated!
Top of Page
Saturday, April 2nd, 2005
Around the Perimeter of Red Mountain
Over 800 cyclists will ride 74 or 26 miles around the perimeter of McDowell
Mountains & Red Mountain, starting and finishing at a NEW location this year,
Red Mountain Park, East Mesa.
El Tour de Phoenix is fast becoming the largest springtime ride in central
Arizona, attracting cyclists of all ages and abilities! The course offers a lot
of diversity, taking you to the North and East areas of Phoenix through a spring
desert in full bloom! Be prepared for a course with a lot of short hills at
times!
The 74-milers start at 6:30 AM and the 26-milers start at 10 AM at Red Mountain
Park in East Mesa, Az. Medallions will be given to all finishers. This ride
benefits The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.
For more information on starting times and locations, or on the cost and how to
register, or to volunteer to be a bike patrol, please call PBAA at (520)
745-2033 (Tucson), or visit the website at www. perimeterbicycling.com or e-mail
at info@perimeterbicycling.com.
Top of Page
By Dorothy Barth
Overnight Tour Coordinator
We have a great array of overnight tours: Sonoita-Bisbee, Salt River Canyon,
Luna Lake, Blue Loop, and Cave Creek. Each one is a signature ride of our club.
As Overnight Ride Coordinator, I am looking for people willing to help us carry
on the great tradition of our weekend tours.
Rhonda Smith has graciously agreed to again lead our Luna Lake Tour, next
memorial Weekend. This is a 3-day cycling tour in the central mountains of
Arizona & New Mexico, on quiet scenic roads. She needs to find a co-leader to
work with her this year, ready to take over in 06.
Kathy Hendricks Mills has run our Salt River Canyon Tour from Phoenix for
several years. This 2-day ride in the middle of May is a test for your legs and
a feast for your eyes with spectacular scenery and very challenging terrain. It
is another GABA ride where organization and support are so important. Kathy
needs a co-leader this year willing to lead the ride next year. Consider the
chance to carry on a ride that has become a tradition for GABA!
The Blue Loop Tour, a 3-day very scenic and fairly demanding cycling tour on
quiet back roads, held on Labor Day Weekend, needs a new ride leader. Sandi
Rousseau has led this ride for the last few years, and is willing to provide
advice and coaching to a new tour leader for the 2005 tour. Much of the
pre-planning work is already done. Great opportunity for someone to take over
and add his or her own signature to the ride!
Call on your "underutilized management skills" and decide to lead an overnight
ride this year. You'll find that it is fun as well as rewarding. And don’t
forget "GABA bucks" as a reward for you and your ride crew. If interested in
being a ride leader, please contact me on the GABA Cross State Tour line at
349-5932 or leave a message at 323-7203, or e-mail me at
dorothybarth2443@msn.com.
Top of Page
Options for 58 or 29 miles
Around the Tucson Mountains
Sunday, April 24, 2005
NEW THIS YEAR!
Both Options will Start and Finish
at the New Marana City Hall on Barnett Rd.
Call PBAA at 745-2033 for Starting Times.
This year, the TTM will challenge over 1,000 cyclists of all ages and abilities
with the help of more than 250 volunteers!
Over a dozen aid stations with food, water and medical assistance will dot the
course. Traffic control over the entire route makes this ride one of the safest
and most enjoyable events in the southwest!
The Kids Fun Ride with options for 4 miles starts at 7 AM at Pima College and
finishes there as well. The 1/4 mile option for kids under 12 also takes place
at Pima College, starting at 7:30 AM.
Proceeds go to the Arizona Alumni Association Scholarship Fund and to Kino Kids,
a pro-gram of Kino Community Hospital, as well as to Pima College and the TMC
Children's Fund.
For more information on starting times and locations, or on the cost and how to
register, or to volunteer to be a bike patrol, please call PBAA at (520)
745-2033 (Tucson), or visit the website at www. perimeterbicycling.com or e-mail
at info@perimeterbicycling.com.
Top of Page
New in March:
Graciela Serrano; Christopher Difino; Jacques Dupuis; Roy Mambakwa; Mary
Mendoza; Tiffany McKee; Juan Hernandez; Sydney Chayes; Jon Bradford; Lottie/Elise
Garcia; Sally Glines; John Delong; Richard/Sherry Davis; Barbara Renick; Keith
Winchell; Stephen Cohen; Leslie Ritter; Mary/Robert Wolk; Gary Mackey Family;
Joe/Susie Aurilio/Deconcini;Dena/John Yoder/Johnson;
Russ Hall; Murray Robertson; Alex/Paula Laiewski; Vicky Litchfield.
Renewed in March:
Norm Land; Dan Selmer; William Wieboldt; Jay Woolsey; Kevin Eaton; Vicki/Steve
Somerville; Lisa Tucci; Luther Propst; Bill Harman; Sheldon Ham; Marlene Dekker;
Eric Case.
Top of Page
zonatandem Rudy Van T@H Rally in the Valley Report
'Rally in the Valley . . . of the Sun' on President's Day weekend in
Scottsdale/Phoenix area was very successful. This was a first time big tandem
event ever for the COYOTES (Coalition Of Young & Old Tandem Enthusiasts) and ABC
(Arizona Bicycle Club). A total of 37 teams pre-registered. Tandem duos came
from as far away as Virginia and even Canada . . . making this an international
event. A total of 12 states and Canada were represented.
Packet pickup included maps/cue sheets and other instructions + lots of freebies
and a nifty COYOTE name tag per team. Friday also featured a
get-acquainted-get-2-gether/mingler in the Comfort Suites hospitality room with
lots great food pickins and drinks, plus prizes for teams being the first to
register/furthest distance/oldest riders.
Varying length rides were scheduled in the Scottsdale/Phoenix/Paradise Valley
area and surrounding desert. Mother nature tried to put a bit of a
'stick in the spokes' by providing 'liquid sunshine' (non Arizonans call that
rain) the first two days but the sun made an appearance later in the weekend.
Several teams donned rain gear and checked out the rides anyway while others
waited 'til the pavement dried.
Us, being older/wiser (?) skipped riding in the rain but still had a great time.
There is lots of camaraderie in the tandem crowd and the vendor's
booth proved to be a good reprieve from the weather. Half a dozen vendors
presented themselves, but only one, ariZona Tandems, brought any 2-seaters to
ogle; three carbon fiber beauties, all weighing in well under 30 lbs (even the
one with Ti S&S fittings) left Bob Davies, the builder, and his cohorts, to
answer lots of questions.
The banquet on Saturday was at Garduno's (a greater Phoenix area 'first
place winner' in the Mexican/Margaritas food category) and we were all able to
swap tales, imbibe and enjoy some of the best Mexican dishes ever. Food stops on
the ride were good and plentiful and sag service was on all rides. Dan Henry
arrows kept everyone on the right track.
Between the rides, wine tasting, food, camaraderie, vendor show and great
organization we wonder how the COYOTES will top their first rally?
We've been doing tandem events for 30+ years . . . this one ranks among the
tops! We doff our cycling helmets to the organizers, and helpers, of the COYOTES
and ABC.
Pedal on TWOgether!
Rudy & Kay/zonatandem
Top of Page
Saturday, April 23, 2005.
At the La Posada Pavilion
First of an annual event sponsored by Southern Arizona Trauma Network [SATNET].
Free food, both breakfast and lunch!
For more information,
contact Arleen Boyuls at 270-8700
or at aboyuls@qwest.net.
Top of Page
March 9, 2005 Meeting
By Richard E. “Rich” Corbett
This column will share with you news from the meetings of the Tucson-Pima County
Bicycle Advisory Committee (TPCBAC) with two major sections: Announcements/News,
and Actions.
Announcements/News:
• Sidney, a local cyclist, in the call to the public, asked that something be
done about glass and other debris in the bike lanes. He said he had 8 flats last
month.
• Peter Sadza, in the call to the public, said that the City of Tucson is
sweeping bike lanes more frequently, but some debris is being left at the very
right edge when the sweeper is driven too far to the left.
• Tucson Police Sgt Tim Beam made a Law Enforcement Report. He reported crashes
for February were up over 2004 (but comparable to 2003). Apparent fault was
still about 50 -50. He said that beginning Monday, March 7th, a special bicycle
& pedestrian enforcement effort is underway, and will continue for about six
weeks.
• Dick Schaffer and Roy Schoonover announced that PAG would be accepting
Transportation Enhancement applications through April 1st.
• Trace Tang handed out flyers on the upcoming Clean Air Fair, to be held April
1-4. Bike to Work Day will be April 1st (no Fooling!) Walk and Roll to School
Day will also be that same date. He also announced that Saturday March 12th is
"Be Safe Saturday" at Tucson Medical Center.
• Matt Zoll announced that the recently completed Safe Routes to School (SR2S)
Training here was very successful, and that TUSD Transportation Safety Director
was there and bought into the SR2S approach to kids traveling to/from school.
• Roy Schoonover asked about shoulder striping on Broadway, Cherry to Euclid,
that was recently taken up. Trace explained that there was a re-make of the lane
allocations underway there, as the first efforts were not satisfactory. Roy then
reported that 1) the enhancements grants meeting held recently was an example of
the great support that ADOT Coordinator Bruce Cannon brought to the process; 2)
His dealings with Chuck Huckleberry, Pima County Administrator, regarding the
addition of bike lanes on Sahuarita road has been strongly supported by George
Dudley and Bill Adamson; 3) He announced that the start/finish of the Tour of
the Tucson Mountains (TTM) has been moved to the Town of Marana.
• Bill Adamson mentioned that the shoulder/bike lanes added on Camino del Sol
are putting Pima County up for an American Public Works Association award. He
mentioned that shoulder lanes are being added on Continental Rd. between Abrego
and White House Canyon Rd.
• George Dudley mentioned that the Sahuarita School Superintendent said that
kids don't walk or bicycle to school any more - 'they get hauled'. Matt Zoll
volunteered to make a Safe Routes to School presentation to them.
• Steve Bresler announced that the City of Tucson Citizen's Transportation
Advisory Committee (CTAC) will be writing a letter of support for the Platinum
effort.
• Mike Sanders, the Arizona State Bicycle & Pedestrian Program Manager, gave a
PowerPoint presentation on the State's recent bicycle and pedestrian planning
and implementation. He handed out copies of the State Bike Map, the State
Bicycle guide (Street Smarts), the State Share the Road guide, and the State
Pedestrian Safety Guide. He admitted that they have only limited quantities of
these products, but encouraged people to visit the website: www.azbikeped.org .
Actions:
The Committee took the following actions at this meeting:
• Item # 5 - Trace Tang reported the need to make shoulder lanes on the Speedway
Bike Route between Rosemont and Wilmot 4 feet, and asked approval of the
Committee. A motion was passed approving of this narrower than standard striped
shoulder width on this section of bike route.
• Item # 7 – Bicycle Parking Standards. Bill Katzel stated that the improved
standards were proposed some months ago, and no action had been taken on them
yet. He then introduced Craig Grossman, City of Tucson Development Services
Administrator. Grossman indicated that the new Bicycle Parking Standards would
be approved and implemented by the end of March. He asked if approval for a
variance from the distance from the parking to the front entrance could be set
up for DOT Staff review (Trace Tang), with assistance from the BAC if needed. A
motion to this effect was passed unanimously.
• Item # 8 - Bill Katzel explained the threat to the Fantasy Island mountain
biking area. Arizona State Land Department has apparently decided the time is
right to sell the land at auction. Katzel was joined by Councilmember Shirley
Scott’s chief of staff, Byron Howard, and Pima County’s Trail Planner Steve
Anderson, both of who strongly support getting an “open space/recreation
resource” designation for the area in the Houghton Area Master Plan being
prepared by the City of Tucson Planning staff. Following considerable
discussion, a motion was passed to send a letter to City Planning Administrator
Albert Elias urging that the land be designated as “open space/recreation
resource” in the Houghton Area Master Plan.
For More Information
If you have any bicycle related concern, you are invited to attend the T-PCBAC
meetings, which take place the 2nd Wednesday of each month, 6 to 8 PM, at the
Himmel Library (Treat Ave & 1st St.), and present your concern during the "Call
to the Public". You may also call the appropriate Bicycle Coordinator: Richard
Corbett, PAG 792-1093, Trace Tang, City of Tucson 791-4372, Matt Zoll, Pima
County 740-6747, and Nancy Ellis, Oro Valley 229-5057.
Top of Page
Saturday, April 2, 2005
Name of Ride: "Scavenger Cruise"
Start Location: El Presidio Park, located downtown Tucson, behind the old
courthouse.
Start Time: 7 AM: Arrival Time
Give yourself plenty of time to park and get your bike ready.
Free Parking downtown on weekends.
Goody Bags and Breakfast Sacks.
7:30 AM: Scavenger Cruise begins!
You'll need a bike, a helmet, a backpack (or bike basket), a couple bucks in
change - just in case, a good attitude!
What the ride is all about: When you arrive at the park, you will be handed a
course map highlighting the course boundaries AND a list of things that you'll
be "scavenging" for! All the things on the list will be within a five-mile
radius in the downtown area AND will be free or cost under .50 cents. After
receiving your map and list, we will ask you to pair up with someone so you'll
have a buddy to help find things. First one back to the park with all the items
gets a prize!
Course ability: Any level of ability; riders will have a chance to test their
starting and stopping skills as well as increase their familiarity with "rules
of the road". This will be a fun event - but it will also heighten awareness of
cycling in traffic areas - and hopefully it will make riders better and more
cautious motorists!
Name of Ride: "Loop and Lemmon-ade" - 6 to 7 miles
Start Location: Aqua Caliente Park, East of Catalina Highway,
on Roger Road.
Start Time: 7 AM: Arrival Time
Give yourself plenty of time to park and get your bike ready.
Plenty of parking on east side of park.
Goody Bags and Breakfast Sacks.
7:30 AM: Ride Begins!
Course elevation: It's an "out and back loop", mostly flat, with a few slightly
hilly spots, and places where cyclists can "cruise" easily. We'll experience
some road traffic, as there are not many bike lanes in this part of town. Most
of the ride will be on a 2-lane road weaving thru residential areas. A small
portion will be on major roads (Soldier Trail and Brad Gorman/Catalina Highway).
Course description: Ride begins at Aqua Caliente Park, heads west on Roger Rd;
north on Soldier Trail then east on Limberlost Rd; north on Melpomene Way; NE on
Brad Gorman/Catalina Highway to the base of Mt. Lemmon for a short "Lemmon-ade
Break". After, we'll jump back on our bikes, and return back to Aqua Caliente
Park the same way.
Course Ability: Any level cyclist should be able to ride this course. Younger
children should be able to easily ride. We will expect parents and other adults
to help keep eyes out for all children - especially your own. There is safety in
numbers -- so let's see how big we can get our "pack"! Once the ride is over,
you are free to enjoy the park and other activities!
Top of Page
April 9, 2005
Organized by the Arizona Bicycle Club (ABC) and co-sponsored by Rock Bottom
Restaurant and Brewery, the tour features a 100-mile ride, a metric century ride
and a 35-mile ride. All rides start at Rock Bottom Restaurant, 7640 W. Bell
Road, with the 100-milers starting at 7 AM, the metric century riders at 7:30
AM, and the 35-milers at 7:45 AM.
A continental pre-ride breakfast, commencing with the 6 AM pre-ride check-in, a
post-ride lunch at the Rock Bottom Restaurant and a commemorative t-shirt are
included in the entry fee. All rides feature 4 support stops along the marked
road courses.
Early entry fee is $30 for ABC, GABA and Bullshifters members. Fee for other
riders is $40. Check www.azbikeclub.com for information, or Richard
Utterback, richardutterback@msn.com or 602-264-9318 or (602)692-2084.
Top of Page
Saturday, April 30, 2005
At McCormick Park,
on Columbus Blvd.
between Glenn & Fort Lowell
By Pam Cullop, Social Director
It’s that time of year again. The weather is warming up. Rides are starting
earlier. All of that adds up to “Ice Cream Eating Time”! This is the annual
event we all look forward to: our Ice Cream Social and Bike Ride! We will meet
at McCormick Park located at 2950 N. Columbus Blvd (Glenn on the South, River on
the North, Swan on the East and Alvernon on the West).
Ride Leaders will be on hand to lead a B, C and D rides selected so that
everyone can find a ride that suits them best. There's something for everyone!
More experienced “faster riders” will be taken into the hills at a pretty good
clip; we have a flat and safe route planned for families or less experienced
riders…and for those who don’t want to exert too much, but need a “good
workout”, we have a ride designed for you, too!
B riders (16-18 MPH): 40-45 mile ride. Departure time: 7 AM.
C riders (12-14 MPH): 30-35 mile ride. Departure time: 8 AM.
D riders ( 8-12 MPH): 10-15 mile ride. Departure time: 9 AM.
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your selected ride so that you can
sign in, get your bike unloaded and be ready to leave by the designated
departure time. All rides start and finish at McCormick Park.
Once you return from your ride, come on over to Ramada #3, where you can choose
from an assortment of ice cream flavors! It isn’t everyday that you have the
good fortune to indulge to your heart’s content with a cool, delicious and
creamy treat! Yummy for your tummy!!!!! If you prefer not to ride, but would
like to come and eat some ice cream and/or just “hang out” for a while, you are
welcome too!
Ice Cream will be served between 10 and 10:30 AM; visiting will last the entire
time you are at the park and on the ride! Please – don’t be shy – come on out
and enjoy the day with us!
If you have any questions, would like to volunteer to lead a ride, or help with
the ice cream social (think GABA Bucks), I would love to talk with you. Give me
(Pam Cullop) a call at 290-4321 or 271-6678. Thanks, and hope to see you there!
Top of Page
Burley Commuter bike for sale; price
reduced. 2003 Model Burley Runabout, frame size small, standover 28.5". Internal
SRAM 7-speed hub, Shimano Disc brakes, fenders, 26" wheels. Arkel "Bug" commuter
pannier and used Nightrider Trail Rat rechargeable lighting system included to
make this a complete "Commuter Package" for only $350. (520) 360-7833 (Tucson)
or cahoffmanrn@cox.net.
Bianchi "Tangent" Touring Bicycle for Sale: Late 80s/early 90s, lugged,
double-butted Bianchi Chromoly frame, 51 cm center to center. Suntour XC triple
crankset (48-38-28), Dura Ace 7-speed 14-26 cogset, Suntour Power Control Barcon
Shifters and more. Good shape, new tires. $250. Call (520) 360-7833 (Tucson) or
cahoffmanrn@cox.net.
Top of Page
4th In A Series of Five
By Richard E. “Rich” Corbett
Certified Cycling Instructor & Coach
Learn about key elements for being more comfortable on your bike! Starting last
January with "Riding When it's Cold", continuing in February with "How To Avoid
a Sore Neck and Shoulders", and in March with "How to Avoid a Sore Bottom
(saddles and shorts), this month, we'll touch on "How to Avoid Hand and Foot
Problems (gloves and shoes)"; and in May, we'll finish with "How to Bicycle When
it's Hot". Read and learn how to enjoy your cycling more!
# 4 How to avoid Hand and foot problems (gloves and shoes)
This 4th Comfort series article shares information on two of the three points of
contact that you have with your bicycle - your hands and your feet. I have had
the pain of a shoe that seems to send a needle into my foot, and I have had
(admittedly 25 years ago) numbness of my hand so bad that I could not grip
anything tightly enough to hold it. Let's look at shoes, then gloves, to help
you avoid (or remedy, as the case may be) the problems that can plague you.
Gloves:
Gloves have come a long way in recent years. And just like shoes, this is true
of their prices too. There are fewer factors at work in glove comfort, if you
consider only the glove(s). However, if you take into account the handlebar, and
how it is padded and adjusted, then there are more elements that you have
control over to achieve comfort. For gloves, size, style, padding, and hand/arm
position are all important. Add to this the type, covering, and adjustments of
the handlebar, and you have a lot more to consider and deal with.
Sizing:
Make sure that your gloves are not too tight, as this can reduce circulation.
Gloves that are too loose can also cause discomfort and inefficiency as well.
Type of Glove:
I like the lycra backed gloves as they protect the back of your hands from the
sun better than other types. On the other hand, the old crochet style glove
backs are really traditional. Your choice. Of course we don’t often use long
fingered gloves here, as this climate is pretty warm overall.
Padding:
Glove padding ranges from almost none to shock-absorbing gel type. In between
are various injected, or denser foams. A key thing to keep in mind is that
gloves are made to work with handlebar padding - not alone! Unlike bike shorts,
glove padding being thicker rarely, if ever, causes a problem for the user.
Hand/arm position:
More than a few of the problems that cyclists have with their hands results from
poor or outright improper hand/arm position. Tenseness, or gripping the
handlebar as though you have to hang by your hands, is a common cause of hand
problems. Relax! Try riding with your hands simply resting on top of the
handlebar, except when you need to execute, or anticipate executing, control
measures such as braking or shifting. Unlock your elbows!! Those who have come
on my coached rides know that litany well! Doing so relieves your neck and
shoulders of the beating they take when the road surface shocks are transmitted
directly up your arms to your shoulders and your neck. A bonus is the greater
toning your abdominal muscles will get.
Handlebar type:
Drop bars, sometimes called racing handlebars, are best to avoid hand problems.
They allow you to change your hand position, and therefore the point(s) where
pressure is exerted on your hands. Straight or mountain type handlebars limit
your hand position options, and can contribute to numbness of the hands. If you
have straight bars, be sure to add extensions on the ends, most often called
steer horns. These give you more position options.
Handlebar Covering:
A good way to help prevent hand problems is to have decent handlebar padding.
Handlebar tape comes in a variety of thicknesses. But the thickest tape may not
be enough to give your hands adequate cushion. Someone came up with the idea to
wrap an old inner tube around your handlebar (like tape), then cover it with
regular handlebar tape.
Handlebar adjustment:
Poor handlebar adjustment also causes lots of hand (and shoulder and neck)
problems. See my article on How to avoid sore neck and shoulders in the February
Update for specifics on handlebar adjustment.
Shoes:
Bicycle shoes have come a long way in the last ten years. The techno-logy (and
prices) has really advanced. In spite of this, there are some basic issues
relating to foot comfort, including type of shoe, sizing, socks, and adjustment.
Let's look at each of these in turn, as to how they bear on your foot comfort
(or discomfort, as the case may be).
Type of Shoe:
There are two primary types of cycling shoes that are most commonly sold: road
racing and mountain/touring shoes. All bicycle shoes have stiff soles to prevent
pedal pressure being transmitted through the sole, and becoming excruciating
after a few hours. All have a system to secure the shoe to the foot - either
laces and/or hook & loop straps.
Road racing shoes have cleats that project below the sole; while mountain and
touring shoes have cleats recessed such that you can walk without walking on the
cleat. If you plan to spend almost all you time on the bike, and very little
time off, and if you want a lighter shoe, you may put up with the inconvenience
of the cleats projecting below the sole, and select road racing shoes.
Sizing:
It is really important that your foot have room in the shoe so that your toes do
not hit the front of the shoe. This generally means that your bike shoes are 1/2
size larger than your street shoes. But, sizing is inconsistent among brands, so
you really should try them on to be sure they fit right.
Socks:
Be sure to use socks that wick and breath well, as perspiration is a major
problem, especially in our climate. Socks play a role in the fit of shoes. If
you buy your shoes using thinner socks, then wear heavier socks (during cooler
weather for example), they may be too tight and cause your feet to hurt. This is
not to suggest that you need two pairs of shoes, one for warm weather (and
thinner socks) and one for cooler weather (and thicker socks). Instead, make
sure that your shoes have a range of adjustability, using the laces or the
hook/loop straps.
Adjustment:
One mistake that causes a lot of unnecessary foot pain is the failure to loosen
the laces or straps after riding for a few hours. Tourists should take their
shoes off, re-adjusting the laces or straps, when they stop for a longer break.
Hook/loop straps make adjusting tightness while riding possible, so racers tend
to use these almost exclusively. Tourists can benefit from this adjustability
too. Your Choice!
In summary, as in many facets of cycling, if you pay attention to what gloves
and shoes work for you, and what doesn’t, you will be able, over time, to fine
tune these important clothing articles and focus on the factors that are most
important for you.
Top of Page
Bike events during the 2005 Clean Air
Fair
The Clean Air Fair is a celebration held annually to promote actions that will
lead to healthier air for our community. The goal of this event is to highlight
bicycling, transit, carpooling, walking, teleworking, and clean fuel vehicles
during the Fair, and to encourage participants to incorporate those activities
into their lifestyles after the Fair. Join in the scheduled events, enter the
contest and do your share for cleaner air! see: http://www.ci.tucson.az.us/caf/.
Try bicycling to work or school to help your health,
and help make the air cleaner!
Friday, April 1st is this year's Bike To Work Day (part of the 2005 Clean Air
Fair). Both Wild Oats Markets will be giving coffee and muffins to all who
bicycle there and show their helmet. For details, call 792-1093.
Friday, April 1st, at the U of A Mall, Free Bike Registration from 10 AM to 2 PM
- all greater Tucson area residents welcome! Make it easier to recover your bike
if it is ever stolen. Join KRQ at the U of A Mall from 11 AM to 1 PM for musical
fun. For details, call 626-7275.
Saturday, April 2nd, two events:
1) Scavenger Cruise - All bike riders will enjoy this early morning adventure.
What you'll need: a bike, a helmet, a backpack (or bike basket), a couple of
bucks in change (just in case), and a good attitude! For details, call 740-3947
2) East Side Bike Ride at Agua Caliente Park - Take a leisurely, child-friendly
round trip ride from Agua Caliente Park. Bring your bike and helmet. Enjoy a
7-mile ride at an easy pace, with an experienced ride leader. Meet at 7 AM at
the Park. For details, call 740-3947.
Sunday, April 3rd - Bike to the Zoo - 9 AM to 4 PM. Show your helmet to get free
admission to Reid Park Zoo. Secured bike parking provided.
Monday, April 4th - Again at the U of A Mall. Free Bike Registration from 10 AM
to 2 PM - all greater Tucson area residents welcome! Make it easier to recover
your bike if it is ever stolen. For details, call 626-7275.
Call 740-3947 or click on http://www.ci.tucson.az.us/caf/ for information,
updates, and to enter the "21 days to Cleaner Air" contest.
Top of Page
May 29th, 30th & 31st
NOTE: STARTING LOCATION AND PARKING FOR THE WEEKEND
NOT DETERMINED AS OF PRINTING DATE.
ALSO, GROUP MEALS NOT SET YET.
CHECK IN NEXT UPDATE FOR MORE DETAILS.
Spend Memorial Weekend cycling a moderately difficult ride on some of the least
traveled roads in the cool mountains of Eastern Arizona and Western New Mexico!
The GREAT Luna Lake Bike Tour, offered for many years by GABA-Tucson, is back
again!
Day 1: 48 Miles: Springerville, AZ to Quemado, NM
Check in at the Safeway parking lot in Springerville, from 8 to 9 AM. Ride 48
miles on rolling hills to Quemado, New Mexico. Lunch served just before a
cyclist's dream: an 8-mile fast descent into Quemado! Camping & showers at the
Quemado High School. Optional dinner with vegetarian or meat Mexican food, green
salad and dessert will be served at the high school as well as breakfast the
next morning.
Day 2: 55 Miles: Quemado, NM to Reserve, NM
Pedal on lightly-traveled roads through the Gallo Mountains. The 1st SAG stop is
at the top of the climb. Then, a thrilling descent to Apache Corners for lunch!
Continue on to Reserve, our destination for the day. If 55 miles is not enough
for you, there's an optional side trip to the Continental Divide, adding 32 more
miles to your day. We will have camping and shower facilities at the Reserve
High School. Walk west, a mere .3 miles from the Rode Inn and you'll be there.
Dinner that night and breakfast the following morning will be served at the
School this year, put on by the cheer leading squad.
Day 3: 62 Miles: Reserve, NM to Springerville, AZ
This is the most challenging day! The first SAG stop is at Luna Summit, top of
the day's major climb! The lunch SAG is at Luna Lake picnic grounds and a 3rd
SAG for emergency refueling and re-hydration will be offered prior to going into
Springerville.
Your Fee Includes: Luggage transport; 2 SAG stops w/food & water on each day; A
3rd SAG stop added on Day 3; Camping & showers at Quemado and Reserve Saturday
and Sunday nights; and end of ride showers at the Rode Inn in Springerville so
you can go home refreshed. Plus SAG vehicles throughout the course.
LUNA LAKE BIKE TOUR RIDE FEE:
Pre-registration Fee: GABA/ABC Members: $65. Non-Members: $75.
DAY OF EVENT fee: GABA/ABC Members: $85.
Non-Members: $95.
Optional meals MUST BE PRE-PAID WITH YOUR RIDE FEE!
Check in the May Update for details on optional meals for 2005.
Why not join GABA-Tucson today? Get our monthly newsletter delivered to your
door AND this ride at member price!
Add $15 for a one-year individual membership;
$18 for a family membership, or $10 for students.
HELMETS ARE MANDATORY.
RIDE ORGANIZER: Rhonda Smith, 886-2919 or
onekewlmom@hotmail.com. Volunteers
needed! Call if interested.
LUNA LAKE BIKE TOUR MOTEL LIST for 2005:
Springerville:
Rode Inn: (877)220-6553 or (928)333-4365
Super 8: (800)800-8000 or (928)333-2655
Quemado:
Allison: (505)773-4550
Allegre: (505)773-4520
Reserve:
Rode Inn: (505)533-6661
Village Motel: (505)533-6600
Allegre: (505)773-4520
Top of Page
2 Single Bikes Travel Cases
AND
1 Tandem Travel Case
May Now Be Borrowed by Members!
GABA now has one tandem travel case and two hard-shell single bike travel cases
that members can borrow. The procedure for borrowing a case is as follows:
1. Travel cases are available to GABA members on a first come basis.
2. A $150 deposit per case is required. Deposit will be returned to borrower
when the case(s) is returned in usable condition.
3. Travel case(s) is to be returned to GABA within 3 days of borrower's return
to town.
4. Individual borrowing the case(s) is responsible for pick-up and return of the
travel case to the designated location.
Contact Peggy Jacobsen at 694-4742 or pjtucson@earthlink.net to arrange for
rental of a bike travel case.
Top of Page
GABA Joins the Whole Community in
Seeking this Prestigious Award!
Mission
To produce and submit a Bicycle-Friendly Community regional application to the
League of American Bicyclists that will sustain a platinum level award by the
year 2006.
What is meant by Regional?
The committee felt that our community included more than the City of Tucson;
that it would be more representative of the community to include those
municipalities which are members of the Pima Association of Governments: City of
Tucson, Pima County, City of South Tucson, Oro Valley, Marana, Sahuarita, Pascua
Yaqui Tribe of Arizona,
Tohono O'odham Nation, Green Valley and Arizona Department of Transportation. We
will be the first regional application submitted to the League of American
Bicyclists.
What is a Bicycle-Friendly Community?
Communities that are bicycle-friendly are seen as places with a high quality of
life. This often translates into increased property values, business growth, and
increased tourism. Bicycle-friendly communities are places where people feel
safe and comfortable riding their bikes for fun, fitness, and transportation.
More bicycling in communities results in reduced traffic demands, better air
quality, and improved public health.
What are the Requirements of a Bicycle-Friendly Community?
Determining whether a community is bicycle-friendly involves the consideration
of many factors and conditions. The application is an audit of a community's
effort to provide a more bicycle-friendly environment. The audit reviews
Engineering, Education, Encoura-gement, Enforcement, and Evaluation & planning
efforts for bicycling. The entire application is reviewed, and feedback from
cyclists in the community is sought to determine whether the League will award
the Bicycle-Friendly Community designation.
What Benefits are there to Bike Lanes and Paved Shoulders?
Bike lanes and paved shoulders have been found to have a benefit-to-cost ratio
of approximately 5 to 1 (Texas Transportation Institute, 1989), and to reduce
crashes by 40% (FHWA, 1987). Another study found the provision of bike lanes and
paved pathways results in a 9-to-1 benefit-to-cost ratio (North Carolina State
University, 2004). Increased space created by bike lanes and paved shoulders
provide numerous benefits including improved safety for pedestrians, bicyclists,
motorists, and roadway workers, due to added space for all the activities they
are involved in on a roadway. Emergency vehicle access is improved through
congested areas, as motorists can pull into a bike lane or shoulder to allow
emergency vehicles to pass. Space is provided to escape potential crashes and
reduce their severity. Space is provided for mechanical difficulties. Roadway
capacity is improved for all and so are safety conditions. This is significant
and almost necessary in today's congested traveling conditions. These benefits
improve and save lives.
Will my Community be Recognized?
The Platinum Challenge Steering Committee has been sanctioned by the respective
municipalities and is now working to audit and identify the key ways to achieve
the Platinum designation. Although this has been set as a goal for 2006, the
committee envisions an ongoing mission that continues to support expanding the
regional community's bicycle-friendliness.
How Can I Help our Community Achieve a Platinum Designation as a
Bicycle-Friendly Community?
Get involved with your local bike club or advocacy groups, join your community's
bicycle advisory committee and work with the community's staff. Your
participation is the key to the ongoing development of the community as
bicycle-friendly.
What Kind of Support is Needed?
The Platinum Challenge is made up of community volunteers like yourself. We need
your support in many ways. Donations can be accepted under a 501 (c) (3) for
expenses like the printing of a brochure with the information that you have just
read, software for our website, etc. We are also willing to accept in-kind
donations.
Can I Be Put on a List of Supporters?
Yes. Please contact us and we will add your name to our list of supporters. In
addition, we will notify you of any events related to the Platinum Challenge
effort and e-mail you regular updates.
What is the Contact Information?
Platinum Challenge c/o Perimeter Bicycling
2609 E. Broadway, Tucson, Arizona 85716
(520) 745-2033
-OR-
Diana Tolton
918-5230; Fax: 299-2898
E-mail: dianat@longrealty.com
Platinum Challenge Steering Committee
Jesse Morales, TPCBAC*
Richard De Bernardis
Perimeter Bicycling Association of America, Inc.
Bill Katzel, TPCBAC*
Diana Tolton, TPCBAC*
Rich Corbett, PAG (Pima Association of Governments)
Matt Zoll, Pima County Bicycle & Pedestrian Program Manager
Trace Tang, City of Tucson DOT, Planner
Steven Wilson, GABA President
Jean Gorman, TPCBAC*, Brad Gorman Fund
Roger Carrillo, Officer TPD
(*Tucson Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee)
Subcommittees & Chairpersons
Engineering - Vince Catallano
Education - Rich Corbett
Encouragement - Richard De Bernardis
Evaluation & Planning - Matt Zoll
Enforcement - Roger Carillo
Media - Alan Fisher
Top of Page
This is one of Tucson's favorite mountain bike riding places! A place with
single track where you can test you cycling abilities and have a lot of safe fun
doing it!
Check the following Websites to find out what's really happening with this
mountain biking recreation area close to town:
www.savefantasyisland.org
or www.smartgroups.com
And, let "them" know how you feel about Fantasy Island, and why it is important
to save it!
Top of Page
Offered Riders a Taste of the New
Ironwood Forest National Monument
By Suzanne Couvrette,
Picacho Century Organizer
This year, a lot of weekends turned out to be overcast, cold and even rainy. But
came the Picacho Century, and surprise, the sun was shining!
It was a great day for riding, cool and sunny, with a slight breeze and early
wildflowers dotting an already very green desert. Approximately 150 riders came
out to enjoy the ride, choosing among 4 options: 100, 65, 35 or 15 miles.
This year, we tried a new area to make sure that the 100-milers had enough
miles! They were routed up towards the new Ironwood Forest National Monument.
(For info, www.azblm.gov)
West of Trico Road, riders continued west on the Old Silverbell Road which
meanders in the foothills of western Avra Valley, slowly climbing through a lush
desert offering lots of ironwood trees among other desert vegetation. The road
is paved for 8.5 miles where riders turned around. For those interested in
exploring this area, the road turns to dirt and continues up over the mountains
by the incredible Ragged Peak. You could actually make a loop of it, returning
at the Red Rock Exit.
Many thanks to my hard-working crew who made this ride a success! Thanks to:
Jackie Descher and Mo Thompson at Sag #1 near the Circle K in Marana; thanks to
Art & Gayle Hartung and Elva Klassen at Sag #2 at Picacho Peak; thanks to Ed &
Sue Roberts at Sag #3 at the end of the paved road in the Ironwood Forest
National Monument - also doing double duty as a roving van from Marana to
Picacho Peak; thanks to Norm Martin and his grandson, roving van from the start
to Marana, AND also in charge of distributing all the GABA sandwich signs along
the course, so that riders would never get lost! And, last but not least, thanks
to Dorothy Teague and Jack Beiler for helping out at registration. Without you
all, GABA-Tucson could not survive!
Top of Page
by Suzanne Couvrette
Editor
(NOTE: Steve is out of town this month.)
The other day, someone called me to ask if he and his friend could ride with us
on a paying ride without paying, since they would bring their own bananas and
would not need our sag support.
It took me by surprise - what if everyone did that? Would we need a Bike Club?
What is it that the club offers? Do we pay $15 just to get a few bananas and
some cookies?
So, my answer was, NO, it is not OK to come on a paying ride and bring your own
bananas to save $15. And why? Because the Club offers a lot more than bananas!
GABA offers a group experience, where people will come to ride with many others,
as opposed to riding by themselves in their neighborhoods.
GABA offers an opportunity for a lot of riders of different abilities to try
their "wheels" on new scenic and challenging roads, usually in areas they might
not go on their own.
GABA offers the camaraderie of group riding, a day away from the routine rides,
where people can meet new friends.
GABA offers rides with amenities, such as Sag Stops where riders can eat without
having to find a restaurant; Sag Support on the road in case their bike fails,
or they have an unfixable flat tire or are too tired to finish the ride.
GABA rides involve time-consuming planning by the ride leader; many volunteers
who get out of bed only to help out and spend the day handing out bananas &
cookies, in order to make the ride a success for all the riders.
Next time you think that all GABA has to offer are a few bananas & cookies for
your $15, think again!
Top of Page
Bicyclists will no longer be allowed to travel through a construction zone on
the Mt Lemmon Highway from 9 AM to 7 PM Tuesdays through Thursdays.
Effective Friday, March 25, bicyclists will be allowed to travel from Milepost
11.2 to Milepost 15.9 (Cypress Picnic Area to Lizard Rock) only on Mondays,
Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays.
The ban on bicycle travel midweek is because it is unsafe for bicyclists to
attempt to travel through the construction zone as they are unable to keep up
the pace with vehicles following a pilot car during passage times.
More information about the project is available by calling an information hot
line at 751-9405.
Top of Page
Griff Griffis, our Vice President, who organized this meeting last February 21,
will give a formal report in the next Update.
Thirteen people participated in this brain-storming session where ideas were
proposed and explored for the purpose of planning the future of our Club.
Topics such as:
1. What are GABA-Tucson's future goals?
2. What is GABA's role in the community?
3. Why are people joining GABA?
4. Review of GABA's current Purposes & Objectives.
5. Should GABA strive to enlarge its membership?
6. How do we encourage more people to ride with us?
As you can see, it was a very com-prehensive session, and more meetings will be
needed to narrow down all the possibilities.
Read Griff's report in the next Update.
Top of Page