No Monthly Meeting On Monday, July 3rd
Phoenix Metro Bike Club’s White Mountain Tour
13th Annual Tour for Tucson’s Children 2006
Eegees Social at our July Meeting
El Tour Turns 24 With First Magnus
Crossing Cattle Guards Safely (Also applies to crossing railroad tracks)
Free Rides in the Cool Forests of Flagstaff!
GABA-Tucson Supporting Members
Welcome, New & Renewing Members!
It Was the 2006 Luna Lake Tour
July 10th GABA Meeting - An Eegee’s Social!
(See related articles in this issue for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders E-Mail
7/3 (Mon) NO GABA MEETING TONIGHT
7/4 (Tue) Tour for Tucson's Children City of Tucson 791-4969 www.active.com
7/8 & 9 White Mountain Tour GABA-Phx Metro Jay Stewart jay.stewart@honeywell.com
7/10 (Mon) GABA MEETING 7 PM EEGEE'S SOCIAL Pam Cullop pjcullop@comcast.net
8/5 (Sat) FREE Rides in Flagstaff GABA-Phoenix Kathy Mills khendricks67@earthlink.net
8/6 (Sun) FREE Rides in Flagstaff GABA-Phoenix Kathy Mills khendricks67@earthlink.net
9/2-4 Blue Loop Bike Tour GABA-Tucson Cliff Papin cpapin@fund-net.com
9/9 & 10 Gila Inner Loop Silver city, NM twinsisters@gilanet.com
9/10 (Sun) El Tour Training Rides start GABA-Tucson Tony Everett teverettaz@hotmail.com
9/16 (Sat) Willcox Ride to EuroFresh Farms City of Willcox Earl Humphries
Our regular monthly meeting usually held
on the 1st Monday of the month,
will be on the 2nd Monday of July this year,
because of the July 4th Holiday.
Monday, July 10 at 7 PM
No formal program tonight.
Join us to socialize with other cyclists!
Eegee's Frozen Drinks provided.
Everybody is welcome!
Monday, August 7 at 7 PM
Come see what happens
when you take two bicycle racers
and put them on 80 lbs touring bikes!
Come join us
as Alicia Heiserer and Mary Jo Erickson
share the experiences of their
Awsome Bavaria Adventure!
JUNE 2006
June 4 (Sun): MT HOPKINS HILLCLIMB MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. Tom Ward.
www.bikegaba.org Mt Hopkins is a 9,000 foot peak south of Green Valley. Mix of
dirt and paved roads.
JULY 2006
July 4 (Tue): TOUR FOR TUCSON’S CHILDREN. City of Tucson Parks & Rec. Lisa or
Jesus at 791-4969, or contact Lisa.Sommer@tucsonaz.gov.
July 8 & 9 : DAVE FREUND MEMORIAL WHITE MOUNTAIN TOUR. PMBC. Show Low to
Springerville via Vernon on the 1st day; Springerville back to Show Low via
Sunrise on the 2nd day. www.sportsfun.com
July 22 (Sun): TAYLOR HOUSE BENEFIT CENTURY. Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff. For
road bikes. 95, 65 or 45 miles. Includes the Wupatki and Sunset Crater Loop for
the longer option. For info, contact 928-779-5969 or 928-226-0300 or
www.absolutebikes.net.
AUGUST 2006
Aug. 12 & 13: GRAND CANYON TOUR. ABC – Richard Utterback, 602-400-2996, or
richardutterback@msn.com or www.azbikeclub.com.
Aug. 19-20-21: CARE & SHARE FOOD BANK OLD-FASHIONED MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL &
RACE. Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff. www.absolutebikes.net.
SEPTEMBER 2006
Sept. 2-4: THE BLUE LOOP. GABA-Tucson. Morenci to Glenwood, NW; Glenwood to
Alpine, AZ; and Alpine back to Morenci via the famous "Coronado Trail".
www.bikegaba.org Very scenic ride, but demanding and challenging terrain for
experienced riders. Ride Leader: Cliff Papin, (520) 403-5005 or cpapin@fund-net.com.
Sept. 9 & 10 : GILA INNER LOOP. Starting in Silver City, New Mexico. Contact
twinsisters@gilanet.com
Sept. 10 (Sun): OPENING DAY OF “EL TOUR” TRAINING RIDES. GABA-Tucson. Tony
Everett, 760-0458 or teverettaz@hotmail.com.
Sept. ? (Sat) (Sat):11th ANNUAL BENEFIT TOUR OF THE WHITE MTNS. Near Pinetop,
for mountain bikes. Starting at Thunderhorse Ranch, same courses as last year.
New Website for registrations on line, starting mid-June. For info and
registration, www.nrmc.org/twm.htm
OCTOBER 2006
Oct. 1-7: GREAT ARIZONA BICYCLE ADVENTURE. 26th Annual. 7 riding days, 546 total
miles with an average of 78 miles per day. Total elevation gain exceeds 30,000
ft. From Grand Canyon via Gray Mountain; Flagstaff; Camp Verde; Payson; Show
Low; San Carlos; and ending in Tucson this year. Optional bus trip to Grand
Canyon on Saturday, Sept. 30, and optional bus return trip to Phoenix on Sunday,
Oct. 8. GABA-Tucson. www.bikegaba.org or info line: 520-349-5932.
Oct. 14 (Sat): COCHISE COUNTY CLASSIC XIX. Organized by PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com
Oct. ? (Sat) : MEMORIAL RIDE FOR SAFETY. In Phoenix. PMBC for CAzB.
www.sportsfun.com
Oct. ? (Sun): HEART OF ARIZONA CENTURY. GABA-West Valley, Bullshifters, & ABC.
www.sportsfun.com
Oct. 21 (Sat): TOUR DE FARM. Diabetes Exercise and Sports Association.
www.tourdefarm.com
Oct. 22 (Sun): GENE CHAPMAN MEMORIAL TUMACACORI CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Most
options start in Sahuarita, south of Tucson, and go to the well-known Tumacacori
Mission. Leaders: Judy & Bob Bolt, 512-0442 or bojubolt@aol.com.
Oct. 22 (Sun): SOUL RIDE MOUNTAIN BIKE. In Oracle. Todd Sadow, www.epicrides.com
Oct. 28 & 29 - NEW DATE! : CAVE CREEK OVERNIGHT RIDE. GABA-Tucson. 45-mile each
day. Ride on the east side of the Chiricahua Mountains, from Road Forks, NM to
Portal, AZ. This year, VERY LIMITED accommodations and meals at the Southwestern
Research Center. Fairly easy scenic ride! Ride Leader: Rhonda Smith, (520)
886-2919 or onekewlmom@hotmail.com. Limited to 42 riders this year! Register
early!
Oct. 28 & 29: MS 150. Multiple Sclerosis Society. http://ms150.dsw.nmss.org
Oct 29 (Sun) : PALO VERDE NUCLEAR CENTURY. GABA-West Valley. www.sportsfun.com.
NOVEMBER 2006
Nov. 5 (Sun): SILVERBELL CENTURY. This year, the Tom Mix Century makes way to a
revamped Silverbell Century, on a course with less traffic.
Nov. ? (Sat): McDOWELL CENTURY. ABC. Options for a metric century and a
half-metric century as well. www.azbikeclub.com
Nov. 11 (Sat): EL BIKE SWAP DE TUCSON. GABA-Tucson. On historic 4th Avenue!
Quaint central area of Tucson where vendors set up on each side of the Avenue.
Great turn-out at no charge to anyone! Greg Yares, (520) 323-9020 or yares@cox.net.
Volunteers are needed: if interested, call Greg.
Nov. 18 (Sat): EL TOUR DE TUCSON XXIV. PBAA. 24th annual. Counterclockwise
course again this year! 4 different options! More than 7,000 riders! Lots of sag
stops along the course, as well as thousands of volunteers to make your
experience a pleasant one! For info, (520) 745-2033 or visit
www.perimeterbicycling.com.
Tucson Az Mtn Standard Time
JULY
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 5:21 7:34
7: 5:23 7:34
14: 5:27 7:32
21: 5:31 7:29
28: 5:36 7:24
AUGUST
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 5:38 7:21
7: 5:42 7:16
14: 5:47 7:09
21: 5:52 7:02
28: 5:56 6:53
July 8th & 9th 2006
This tour has been attracting participants from out of state, as well as
in-state riders for more than 20 years and has become a favorite of many. Maybe
it's the friendly group of volunteers who transport the luggage, serve up the
great goodies at the sag stops and generally insure that you have the best
weekend possible, that keep folks coming back each year. Let's not forget the
cooler weather with temps averaging from the low 60’s to the mid 80’s and the
dynamic vistas you will encounter while pedaling your bike.
The White Mountain Tour is a two-day fully supported tour including sag support,
emergency mechanical support, plenty of good snacks and luggage delivery to your
hotel or campsite. Saturday night's dinner and a raffle ticket are also included
in the entry fee.
The cost of the tour is $50 for GABA/ABC and $55 for non-members. A $10 late fee
applies after 6/23.
Saturday night dinner, included in the entry fee, will be served from 5 to 7 PM.
Non-riders and family members can purchase dinner for $17 per person. The dinner
menu includes Steak, BBQ chicken, beans, pasta salad, garden salad, watermelon,
biscuits, cobbler & ice cream. After dinner, there will be an Amateur Talent
Contest and Raffle with prizes for those willing to showcase their talents;
those not so bold will have a chance to win raffle prizes.
Free camping on Saturday night including showers facilities. For those whishing
for the more comfortable confines of a motel room, make your reservations at one
those listed below; we will deliver luggage there by 2 PM. Luggage Pickup will
start at 8 AM on Sunday for the return trip.
Start: Staging area will be at Hon-Dah, located 4 miles south of Pinetop at the
junction of Hwy 260 & Hwy 73.
Course: This year, we return to the traditional loop again. Leaving the staging
area at Hon-Dah, ride North on Hwy 260 through Pinetop/Lakeside to Show Low. In
Show Low, turn East onto Hwy 60 and ride to the sag stop located at Midway
Station convenience store in Vernon, about 34 scenic miles from the start. From
there, it's up over a small mountain range, and then a long down to
Springerville/Eagar for a total of 63 miles for Day One.
Day Two start: 8 AM. The ride starts with a gradual climb up to 9,000 feet where
rolling meadows meet the higher peaks of the White Mountains. SAG stop opens at
8:30 AM near the Sunrise turnoff. Then, it's mostly downhill through forests of
aspens and evergreens back to the start for the days total of about 38 miles.
Where to stay in Springerville/Eager:
To contact the following motels,
dial 1-928-433- then dial their individual number:
El Jo Motor Inn 4314 Reeds Motor Lodge 4323
Spanish Trails B & B 4034 Super 8 Motel 2655
Best Western 2540 Corral Motel 2264
Paisley Corner B & B 4665 Rode Inn 4365
Whiting Bros Inn 5870
There is a lot of accommodations in the Pinetop/Lakeside and Show Low areas if
you drive up on Friday evening, or stay over on Sunday night: check the GABA
Phoenix Metro website: www.sportsfun.com.
For more information or questions, contact ride leader Jay Stewart, League of
American Bicyclists, LCI #1196, 480-250-1613 or jay.stewart@honeywell.com. Ask
me about vehicular cycling! Are you a bicycle DRIVER?
WHITE MOUNTAIN TOUR
Pre-Registration Form
July 8 & 9, 2006
ONE FORM PER RIDER.
Photocopies accepted.
Please fill out all the blanks.
Leader: Jay Stewart, 480-250-1613
Or jay.stewart@honeywell.com
Or www.sportsfun.com/gaba
I am currently a GABA member:
(Circle) Yes No
NAME:__________________________________
ADDRESS:_______________________________
CITY:___________________________________
STATE_______ ZIP_____________________
PHONE: ( )________________________
E-MAIL _________________________________
FEE: make check payable to and mail to:
Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club
PO Box 26788, Tempe AZ 85285-6788
GABA/ABC Member: $50 _____
Non-Member: $55 _____
Late fee after 6/23/06 $10 _____
Non-Rider dinner (adult) $17 _____
TOTAL MONEY SENT: $________
Vegetarian (Please circle): Yes No
Your ride fee includes
camping in Springerville and
a great group dinner on Saturday night.
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each form.
Wanted to buy: Woman's 24" frame road bike, 12 speed or more, prefer original
very good condition. Tires not important. Also need a used no-horn men's saddle
and seat post shock absorber. Bud O'Toole, 319-1121. (Tuc)
2001 Meridian Cascade - Beamed Tandem. Captain's compartment: 53 cm. Stoker's
com-partment: adjustable anywhere from Mary Lou Retton to Sheryl Swopes.
Reasonably well maintained, 10K miles, Phil Woods Hubs, Chris King Headset, Race
Face BBs, Campy shifters adapted to Shimano rear dr, Arai Drum Brake. $2250 OBO
Bob/Linda Epstein, rye37@cox.net.
26" Meridian tandem frame. Never built. Small/Small, Sun Rhyno Lite 40 spoke
Wheelset, brand new. Race Face 170/170 crankset, 2 Race Face ti bottom brackets.
We're taking a loss @ $2000. Bob and Linda Epstein, rye37@cox.net.
Ksyrium Wheelset. Good shape, but missing some decals. Clinchers. $325 OBO. Bob
& Linda Epstein, rye37@cox.net.
Helium Wheelset. Clinchers. $250 OBO Bob & Linda Epstein, rye37@cox.net.
TREK 7500FX Hybrid. 17" frame. One year old. Barely ridden. Rear rack included.
Fast & comfortable. New $700. Asking $400. Call Leslie or Madeline. 321-1875 or
mcqi@yahoo.com.
Tuesday, July 4th
The Tour for Tucson’s Children was created in response to the passage of the
1994 Bicycle Helmet Ordinance. At the time, we were concerned with the
inevitable need there would be to provide helmets for low-income youth.
The Tucson Parks and Recreation Department and Tucson Fire Department were
already actively involved in a bicycle safety program. As a result of both
departments’ commitment to Childhood Injury Prevention Programs, the staff from
both these departments became the event organizers and have continued to manage
the Tour since its inception.
GABA has been a strong and active supporter of the event, assisting with the
promotion of the event through its newsletters. Since 2004, GABA's generous
donations have been in honor of the memory of Richard Forcier, a local attorney
and active GABA member for many years. The Tour for Tucson’s Children Board
extends its gratitude to the GABA Board of Directors and its members for their
continued support of the Tour for Tucson’s Children event. We are looking
forward to continuing this long-standing relationship.
The start/finish line for all events is on the East Side of the Tucson
Convention Center. This is also where the venue is located. On site
registration, packet pick up and refreshments are all located in the venue.
The 3-mile walk and the 6½ & 10-mile rides will take you through downtown and
along the Santa Cruz River path. The 27-mile ride takes you out west along
Mission, Irvington, Valencia and a short part of Ajo before returning you
downtown. Participation medals are handed out to all event participants.
27-mile challenge 6:00 AM start
3-mile Run/Walk 6:05 AM start
10-mile Family Ride 6:45 AM start
6½-mile Family Ride 6:45 AM start
½-mile Kid's Ride (6 and under) and activities 8:00 AM start
Adults 16+: $15 (on or before 6/21, $20 after 6/21)
Youth Under 16: $10 (on or before 6/21, $15 after 6/21)
Kids event is free and includes ½-mile kids ride, Jumping Castle, Obstacle
Course, Arts & Crafts Project, Face Painting and Carnival Games.
Packet pick up is July 1st: 10 AM-5 PM @ 900 S. Randolph Way and at the venue on
7/4. Proceeds benefit Tucson SAFEKIDS Injury Prevention Program. Registration
available at: www.ci.tucson.az.us or www.active.com. For more info, call Lisa at
791-4969 or lisa.sommer@tucsonaz.gov.
Monday, July 10, 2006, at 7 PM
By Pam Cullop, Social Director
“Roll Out Those Lazy Hazy Crazy Days of Summer”, and that is how we will spend
our evening together, on Monday, July 10th.
Join us for the 2nd Annual Eegee Social Night, In Lieu of the Regular Monthly
Meeting.
On this night with no regular speaker or pro-gram planned, we want you to come
on over and join those of us still in town enduring the 100 + degree
temperatures just like you!
Can you think of a better way to beat the heat than just ‘lazing’ around, whilst
sipping on the icy-concoction called an “Eegee's”, and shootin’ the breeze with
a fellow cyclist? You got it…no speaker, no slideshows, and no one to tell you
to stop visiting so we can “get the program underway”!
July 10th is the 2nd Monday of the month. The gathering time is the same – 7 PM.
The location never changes – 5199 E Farness Rd.
Ask anyone who was at this meeting last summer: they'll tell you we had a blast!
“You’ll Wish That Summer Could Always Be Here”!
TUCSON, Ariz. – At a Williams Centre news conference today, Richard J.
DeBernardis, founder & executive director of El Tour de Tucson, announced with
great pleasure a three-year commitment by First Magnus to be the new title
sponsor of El Tour as it celebrates its 24th birthday.
Approaching its 10th year, Tucson-based First Magnus Financial Corporation has
gained national prominence in the financial services industry and is one of the
largest privately held mortgage-banking operations in the United States. The
company, which lends in all 50 states, had fundings in excess of $27 billion in
2005, a 65% increase over 2004. First Magnus supports over 300 offices and has
more than 5,000 employees nationwide, with over 800 employed in southern
Arizona.
First Magnus is the parent company of Charter Funding (southern Arizona’s #1
home mortgage lender) and Charter Insurance Group (Arizona’s #1 independent
personal lines insurance agency), and also conducts business in Tucson as Home
Loan Executives and Vantage Mortgage, while partnering with Long Realty in Long
Mortgage and with Realty Executives in Pinnacle Mortgage. This September the
company will launch First Magnus Bank, a federally chartered bank with its
national headquarters in Tucson.
The combined six-year title sponsorship by Charter Funding and First Magnus
constitutes the most number of years any organization has been the title sponsor
of El Tour.
DeBernardis also announced that Diamond Ventures, Inc. returns as El Tour’s
presenting sponsor for the seventh year in a row. Diamond Ventures is a
Tucson-based full-service real estate company known for its quality residential,
retail, commercial and industrial planning and development. Its residential
developments are often recognized for their numerous and carefully designed
bicycling, walking and equestrian trails.
Proceeds from this year’s event will again benefit Tu Nidito Children and Family
Services whose mission is to provide individual, family and group support to
children and their families as they deal with serious illnesses and death. El
Tour expects to raise $250,000 for Tu Nidito this year. Other fund-raising
efforts include the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, for the eleventh year in a row,
and the American Parkinson Disease Association.
On Sunday, Sept. 17th, El Tour season kicks off with the Diamond Ventures 9th
annual El Tour 10K & 5K Run/Walk at Continental Reserve. Each day there-after,
Flag Riders will cycle the entire El Tour route carrying the El Tour flag. El
Tour week includes a 3-day Bike, Fitness & Health EXPO, a 2-day Wellness
Conference and the Rusing & Lopez 11th annual El Tour Golf Classic. Ride day
opens with the 109-mile Main Event and includes the Pulte Homes 80-Mile El Tour,
the Intuit 66-Mile El Tour, the Town of Oro Valley 35-Mile El Tour and the TMC
Kids & Family Fun Ride. Kids activities, live bands, a beer garden, the Grand
Cycling Awards Ceremony and an exciting outdoor finale round out the El Tour
Downtown Fiesta.
The event is also supported by Bruegger’s Bagel Bakery, Citi Cards, City of
Tucson, Clear Channel Radio, Clif Bar, Enterprise Rent-A-Car, GEICO, Greater
Arizona Bicycling Association, Honeywell, Intuit, Jim Click Hyundai, KGUN 9,
Madden Preprint Media, MTCVB, Metro Restaurants, Penske Truck Rental,
Performance Bicycle Shop, Picor, Pima County, Pizza Hut, Rio West, Sprouts
Farmers Market, Texas Instruments, Tucson Home Magazine, and Wal-Mart.
The First Magnus El Tour de Tucson presented by Diamond Ventures will be held
Saturday, Nov. 18th, 2006. Last year’s event drew 8,041 cyclists, 2,600
volunteers and 24,117 spectators. El Tour is expected to bring in approx-imately
$40.5 - $54 million to the Tucson area during the course of the year including
$13.5 - $18 million on ride weekend alone. El Tour was listed by the June 2001
Southwest Airlines Spirit magazine as one of the “Divine Nine” rides.
Looking for an out-of-the-ordinary ride this fall?
October 28 & 29, 2006
By Rhonda Smith, Ride Organizer
This 45-mile "short but sweet" road ride begins in Roadforks, New Mexico, and
takes you to the eastern side of the Chiricahua Mountains and the spectacular
little town of Portal, at the entrance to Cave Creek Canyon.
The first 30 miles is through rolling hills with one long downhill to the first
SAG stop at mile 20. Then, we turn east towards the canyon and start a long
gradual climb to the Portal Country Store at about mile 37. The lunch stop will
be set up 2 miles further in the canyon.
After riding along a flowing creek in the shade of lush sycamore trees, riders
meander on the canyon floor between spectacular towering cliffs! You’ll be in a
narrow canyon with small meadows where deer graze at dusk. And, you’ll see birds
of all descriptions everywhere around you! Our destination is the Southwestern
Research Station (SWRS), located at the end of the paved road, 5 miles beyond
the Portal Country Store.
The dormitory-style lodging is operated by the American Museum of Natural
History. It is surrounded by the Coronado National Forest and offers a welcome
retreat from the heat of the desert. As you come upon this oasis, the beautiful
grounds with tall trees and green grass beckon you! The 60-foot long, cool,
creek-fed swimming pool will seem very inviting at the end of this gradual
climb! Enjoy ping-pong, volleyball, horseshoes and an interesting library as you
await a generous dinner prepared especially for us!
THIS RIDE IS LIMITED TO ONLY 42 RIDERS FOR THIS YEAR. REGISTER EARLY IF YOU ARE
INTERESTED!
Ride fee: $85 for GABA/ABC Members; $90 for non-members. Your fee includes:
Two sag stops along the course on Saturday;
A social mixer with snacks on Saturday afternoon around 3:30 PM;
Dinner on Saturday evening at 6 PM;
Breakfast on Sunday morning;
Lodging with bedding, towels and warm showers;
Sag support on the road on Sunday with a lunch stop 10 miles before the
finish.
Sounds like fun? Look for more details in the next Update.
Start location: Meet at the Shady Grove truck stop/restaurant (USA Petroleum) at
I-10 & Hwy 80, Exit 5, at Road Forks, NM, about 5 miles EAST of the Arizona-New
Mexico state line. Park away from the truck stop on the dirt area at the north
end of their parking lot.
Start time: Check-in starts at 8:30 AM. Please start riding no later than 9:30
AM. Allow at least 2-1/2 hours travel time from central Tucson to Roadforks,
about 135 miles.
Motel List
If anyone wants to drive over the night before, here is a list of motels. There
is no longer any lodging at Road Forks, NM. The closest lodging is in Lordsburg,
NM, about 15 miles EAST of Road Forks. There is also lodging at Willcox, AZ,
about 47 miles WEST of Road Forks. No endorsement is implied by listing any of
these motels:
Willcox, AZ:
Days Inn (520) 384-4222
Best Western Plaza Inn (520) 384-3556
Super 8 Motel (520) 384-0888
Royal Western Lodge, (520) 384-2266
Budget Riteway Motel (520) 384-4655
Motel 8 (520) 384-3270
Lordsburg, NM:
Western Skies Motel (505) 542-8807
Days Inn (505) 543-3600
Super 8 Motel (505) 542-8882
American Motor Inn (505) 542-3591
For more information, contact Ride Organizer, Rhonda Smith, (520) 886-2919 or at
onekewlmom@hotmail.com. Volunteers are always appreciated. Please call Rhonda if
interested.
CAVE CREEK BIKE TOUR
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
OCT. 14 & 15, 2006
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies of this form are acceptable.
Please fill out all blanks.
Leader: Rhonda Smith, (520) 886-2919 or onekewlmom@hotmail.com
Return this Form & your check to: GABA
P.O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733
Options chosen: (Please circle)
Vegetarian Yes No
I would like to room with:
______________________________________
______________________________________
Money enclosed:
GABA/ABC Members: $85 $____
Non-Members: $90 $____
(Must be received by 9/15)
Total money enclosed: $____
I am currently a GABA/ABC member: Yes No
NAME
(Print):_________________________________
ADDRESS:_______________________________
CITY:_______________ ZIP:_______________
PHONE: ( )
E-MAIL: ________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each form.
Forms and Waivers cut with scissors are appreciated!
What does rain mean to us as cyclists?
by Richard “Rich” Corbett
Master Cycling Instructor & Certified Coach
What do we need to do to keep from falling or colliding due to the special
conditions that exist when it rains? Having ridden in the rain many times over
the years, and more importantly, having the collective knowledge of research
available, I can share information to help you be safer when it is wet.
The key safety implications include:
When it is overcast, and/or raining, always think about how well drivers can see
you. When drivers have rain on their windows, and there are no shadows because
it's cloudy, you, the cyclist, are much harder to see. To help overcome this,
make sure you are where they will look, and try to wear light, bright colors
that will make you stand out from the background. Drivers who can't see you
can’t cooperate with you!
Realize that when the road is wet, it is slippery! (Duh!!) Bicycling on or
across certain ‘things’ in the road requires special care. Those we most often
encounter are:
• Metal Grates, Grills, etc Try to avoid riding across these, but if you do,
always ride straight across, without turning, braking, or accelerating. The
skinnier your tires, the trickier these can be.
• Painted or Thermo Plastic Lines These are also slippery when wet (though not
as slippery as metal items), and there are many more of these than metal grates,
etc. Treat these the same as metal features - ride straight, without turning,
braking or accelerating.
• Puddles, Potholes, and Pavement Cracks Potholes often hide in puddles. It
makes good sense to avoid riding through puddles. You also have to be even more
alert than usual for other pavement defects/failures, without taking too much
attention from your 'traffic watch'.
Remember that the first rain always floats oils left on the road, making the
roads a lot slipperier than normal, and slipperier than after successive rains.
Also, remember that brakes don't work as well when wet and this means your
stopping distances will be greater.
All the points above presume that you have adequate personal protection (rain
gear), so you won't face the risk of hypothermia, with the impaired judgment and
reactions that accompany it. Please do not presume that it's OK to get wet and
ride on! You can suffer from hypothermia in temperatures as high as the 70's, if
you are wet!
Rain Gear:
We are fortunate in that we can ride year round and rarely have to worry about
rain. A simple way to be prepared is to carry an orange (it can be seen a lot
better than black or tan) 30 gallon plastic garbage bag, folded and rolled quite
small. I will carry one if I think there is a fairly good chance of rain, or
when riding a long way from home if there is even a moderate chance of rain.
In General, rain gear for you could include:
1. Jacket: A waterproof, breathable jacket is best for riding in the rain
(especially in the winter); the back of your jacket should be longer to protect
your lower back; in warmer weather, a cycling poncho is cooler, and keeps you
amazingly dry, at the expense of wind resistance.
2. Pants: Waterproof and breathable material is the best for rain pants; A
Velcro or zippered cuff helps get them on and off over shoes ; and remember to
protect your rain pants from your chain; use rubber bands or ankle straps.
3. Feet: In our warmer climate, sandwich bags inside of your shoes, over socks,
helps keep your feet drier; in the winter, breathable waterproof socks are also
available; neoprene booties will cover your shoes, keep your feet drier, and
keep your feet warmer in colder weather.
4. Hands: Gloves or mittens should provide water & wind protection, as well as
access to your shifters and brakes.
5. Your Bike: Keep the water from your tires out of your face and off your back
with full-length fenders (they will also keep your bike cleaner even when there
is no water); and a rear rack will shield you from water (rooster tail) from
your rear tire.
In Summary, if you are well prepared, riding when it's wet will be a lot safer,
and more fun!
By Richard “Rich” Corbett,
Master Cycling Instructor & Certified Coach
GRRR! RARF! RARF! RARF! What looks like the world’s biggest dog charges out,
snarling as it chases you on your new carbon fiber bike. Your adrenaline surges,
you stand up and charge off! Crummpph! You crash into the back of the parked car
you failed to see . . .
I hope this has not happened to you, and that it does not in the future, as it
really doesn’t have to, if you know how to ‘deal with dogs’. I share here, what
in almost all cases is the way to deal with dogs! And, a bonus! Since last year,
there has been some really good discussion about alternate ways to deal with
dogs on the League Instructor listserve. Here are some of the better ones:
As for pepper spray blowing back into your face, I use Fox Lab's police grade
that is dispensed in a stream. I can discharge the stuff in a pack of cyclists
and only hit the dog. They call me Dirty Harry, I seldom miss. I was 5 for 5 on
a 105 mile ride through Owen County last fall. Ralph M, Burlington, KY
A loud hiss at the dog has always worked well for me. It will at least break
their stride for a moment and leave them wondering if they want to tangle with
you. Mike L. Austin TX
1) If I see them before they start running toward me, I greet them in a friendly
tone. 2) Once they start running toward me, I shout emphatically, and "throw"
imaginary objects at them. The key point is to command them and show no fear. 3)
Most dogs will run parallel to my direction of travel and stay a few feet away
once I shout at them. Barry Z., Louisville, KY
I had one [AIR HORN] on my bike for a while and it DOES work! It emits a pitch
that causes them to throw their head back and then their gait is off and it
slows them down; it is directional so you have to point it towards the dog. I
accidentally hit it in the house one time and my dog was NOT happy with me! I
bought mine at an electronics/security store in the mall and it was about $10 -
$15. Lyndy M, Orlando, FL
Rich’s Approach
So how do I avoid that dog? I stop pedaling and call out to the dog, “No!! Bad
Dog! Go Home!”, then I watch for a reaction, such as the dog slowing its
approach. Then, there are two possibilities. You make it, or you don’t! Let’s
look at what to do in each case:
You make it (dog looks like it will not intercept you):
If you are reasonably certain that the dog will not be able to intercept you,
then consider shifting up a gear and sprinting away! But be very careful that
the area ahead is safe for you to ride into at a faster speed, as too many
cyclists, in avoiding a dog, have ridden into a parked car, another cyclist, the
curb, etc!
You don't make it (dog looks like it will intercept you):
If after calling out to the dog, the dog does not slow down, and your judgment
is that the dog will intercept you, be prepared to stop, with your bike between
you and the dog. Use the bike as a shield, and move it as needed to keep it
between you and the dog (especially if the dog is aggressive), rotating it on
the rear wheel. Most dogs will go away if you stop, since you are (I hope)
outside their ‘territory’, and, when you stop, their fun is gone!
After the dog leaves or calms down, you should be able to re-mount and continue
on your way. If the dog does not leave, keep your bike between you and the dog,
pull your water bottle out and squirt the dog with water –dogs hate this, and
they will almost always leave!
Do Not:
Don’t take your pump loose and swing it at the dog, as too many cyclists who
have done this have either
a) dropped the pump, or
b) worse, accidentally put it into one of their wheels!
If you are a skilled rider, you can, if you have enough water, pull your water
bottle out and squirt the dog, but only if you are truly skilled (can you ride
with no hands? Can you do the rock dodge confidently?).
What if your efforts fail? What if you get bitten? Assuming you are safe (the
dog is no longer a threat), call 911 to report the attack, and do file a police
report. Identification of the dog is important, as you may have to take rabies
shots if the dog cannot be identified and quarantined. Of course, you will want
to see your doctor, as the puncture wound(s) from a bite need to be treated.
Of course, there are a lot fewer loose dogs than there were 15 – 20 years ago,
as the City of Tucson, the City of South Tucson, and Pima County have leash
laws. It is still important to know how to deal with the occasional loose dog.
This article should equip you to do so.
Do you know what right hook is? A right hook is when a motorist passes you,
brakes, and then turns right so close in front of you that you usually cannot
avoid hitting them. The motorist has broken the law by cutting you off.
By Richard E. “Rich” Corbett,
Master Cycling Instructor & Certified Coach
Last year I shared information on how to avoid the ‘right hook’, and hopefully
it kept all of you from being ‘bitten’ by this motorist error. Since this still
seems to be a too common situation in our area, I have updated the article.
Do you know what right hook is? A right hook is when a motorist passes you,
brakes, and then turns right so close in front of you that you usually cannot
avoid hitting them. The motorist has broken the law by cutting you off.
Last year there were a number of these crashes, and, sadly, the police did not
always understand the physics of this classic motorist fault crash. Since then,
however, Tucson Police (at least) have instituted training to help officers
better understand when this happens, and who the fault rests with.
In any case, you still need to know some basics as to 1) how to prevent them
from happening, 2) how to avoid them as they begin to develop, and 3) what to do
if you still get cut off by a $#$%$ motorist who does not know basic traffic law
and courtesy.
Prevention: Be extra aware of the intersections and drives on your route that
people regularly turn at, and watch (with a rear view mirror, or by looking
back) as you approach these, and if you see a motorist coming from the rear
whose arrival timing might put them in conflict with you, do two things:
1) put your left hand/arm out in a slowing/moving left signal (hand and arm
straight, pointed at about a 45o angle to the left), then
2) move a foot or two to the left to emphasize your presence and your intent to
continue straight ahead. Motorists who are going to turn right will virtually
always slow and pass behind you, and those who are going thru the intersection
will move left a little and continue past you.
Avoidance: Be prepared, as you approach these locations to brake and or
swerve/turn to the right, if someone sneaks past your prevention measures. This
means you must be even more alert as you cycle, especially as you approach
intersections and driveways. You don’t need to be fearful, just stay alert.
Emergency braking (do you know how to do this?), and/or a quick turn to the
right (do you know how to do this?) can stop or steer you out of the path of an
illegally turning motorist. Both these maneuvers are taught in the LAB Road I
Courses (watch the Update for the upcoming classes).
Mitigation/Follow-up: If in spite of your efforts, a collision takes place,
hopefully you are smart enough to 1) be wearing a helmet, and 2) strike the
offending vehicle at as shallow an angle as possible (the quick turn will let
you either avoid the collision or collide at a very shallow angle).
If a crash does occur, and if police respond, be sure to ask the Officer “ Have
you had any special training in bicycle-motor vehicle crash investigation?” If
they answer no, then ask if an officer with such training could carry out the
crash investigation.
Summary:
Ride Aware – know what is going on around you and think ‘what if’ as you ride
along- know what you will do if various, predictable things happen.
Be Prepared – know how to do emergency braking, and quick turns, as these two
maneuvers can save you.
Know what to ask – be sure to ask any police officer who responds if they have
had the special training to be able to do a competent crash investigation.
Ride safer by following these tips and your cycling will be even more enjoyable,
as you ride with confidence – not fear.
A Premier Cycling Event!
September 2, 3 & 4, 2006
The time is approaching for one of the best rides sponsored by GABA-Tucson! Come
out with us and escape the heavy traffic and pressure of the big city, and relax
in the remote Arizona and New Mexico's scenic mountain countryside. You will
enjoy a total elevation gain of 16,977 feet over 3 days and 216 beautiful miles.
This year's ride is the traditional route that you have grown to know and love:
Morenci to Glenwood, to Alpine, and back to Morenci via the famous "Coronado
Trail" - 215 miles worth of an end-of-the-summer hurrah! The ride is fully
supported with sag stops and sweeps to ensure everyone enjoys the ride to the
utmost!
This ride is for experienced riders who are conditioned for long gradual climbs
as well as long exhilarating descents. This is a scenic ride with demanding
terrain! If you are looking for a great training ride for GABA's "Grand Canyon
to the Border Bike Tour", held this coming October, this is the one you want! Be
ready for all kinds of weather: It may rain at one point or another, and the
temperatures are likely to drop considerably! Very cool mornings in the
mountains will alternate with very hot afternoons.
Registration, Friday, September 1st.
Check-in for pre-registered riders, and registration for Day-of-Event riders,
will be held on the grounds of the Morenci Motel, from 5:30 PM to 8:30 PM on
Friday night. To find us, look for a yellow GABA sign pointing the way. The
Morenci Motel, with a brand new menu for diners, will be serving dinner in their
restaurant until 9 PM on Friday night if you arrive hungry.
1st Day, Saturday, September 2nd:
Morenci to Glenwood, NM - 66 miles with 4800 ft. of elevation gain.
Get on your bike and roll on down into Clifton, then climb out of the Gila River
Valley heading northeast on Hwy 78 through Mule Creek and on to Glenwood
following the San Francisco River Valley into Glenwood.
2nd Day, Sunday, September 3rd:
Glenwood to Alpine, AZ - 58 miles with 5346 ft. of elevation gain.
Back on the bike with a gradual climb through pine forests in New Mexico as you
negotiate Saliz Pass and Luna Summit to the small town of Alpine at
approximately 8000 feet of elevation.
3rd Day, Monday, September 4th:
Alpine to Morenci - 92 miles with 6831 ft. of elevation gain.
Pedal SOUTH on US 191 along the famous "Coronado Trail" bringing you "blue"
vistas, green forests, and long descents! After a series of ups and downs in
high forests, riders arrive at Hannagan Meadow. Prepare yourself for
breathtaking scenery while cycling down many miles and many tight curves, and
another long gradual climb up to the lunch spot at Rose Peak. There are many
more downs and ups over small ridges, always with tremendous views, before the
final 20 miles of spectacular vistas as you pedal back down into Morenci.
Camping:
Friday night: At the Morenci Motel in Morenci on large grassy area.
Saturday night: In Glenwood at the park across the street from the Double T
Homestead B & B, 1 mile EAST of town on the Catwalk Road. Rustic, friendly
atmosphere with smooth camping spots! Hot & cold showers available.
Sunday night: In Alpine at the Alpine RV Park. Hot showers available.
Monday afternoon:
Showers available at the Morenci Motel after the ride.
Ride Fee for Pre-registered Riders:
GABA members: $85.
Non-members: $95.
Pre-Paid Meals:
Sat. Dinner in Glenwood: $12
Sun. Brkfst in Glenwood: $ 8
Sun. Dinner in Alpine: $12
Mon. Brkfst in Alpine: $ 8
Ride Fee for Day-of-Event Riders:
No meals will be available to day-of-event riders.
GABA members $105.
Non-members $115.
Early registration is critical to provide better support
and meals, and is very much appreciated.
Blue Loop Tour Pre-Paid Group Meals
To participate in group meals, you must register/pre-pay by 8/14th. Our hosts
need enough time to get the necessary food on hand to prepare these meals for
us. If interested in group meals, sign up early!
Morenci Sat. 5:30 AM (AZ TIME) Morenci Motel YOU PAY.
Glenwood Sat. 5 PM (AZ TIME) $12. Double T B & B PREPAID.
Glenwood Sun. 6 AM (AZ TIME) $ 8 Double T B & B PREPAID.
Alpine Sun. 5 PM (AZ TIME) $12. Alpine Inn B & B PREPAID.
Alpine Mon. 6 AM (AZ TIME) $ 8. Sportsman Lodge PREPAID.
Pre-registration is strongly encouraged and helmets are mandatory. Any
questions, contact Ride Leader Cliff Papin, at (520) 403-5005, or e-mail him at
cpapin@fund-net.com. Volunteers are always needed: be a part of this great
event! If interested, contact Cliff.
Blue Loop Motel List:
Friday Night in Morenci/Clifton:
Morenci Motel: 928-865-4111
Rode Inn (Clifton): 928-865-4536
Saturday Night in Glenwood:
Double T Homestead B&B: 505-539-2812
Lariat Motel: 505-539-2361
Crab Apple Cabins 505-539-2400
White Water Motel 505-539-2581
Doc's B & B 505-539-2611
Sunday Night in Alpine:
Alpine Inn: 928-339-1840
Alpine Cabins: 928-339-4440
Sportsman Lodge: 928-339-4576
Mountain High Lodge: 928-339-4311
Coronado Trail Cabins: 928-339-4772 (1 mi. S. of town)
Tal-Wi-Wi-Lodge 928-339-4319 (4 mi. N. of town)
BLUE LOOP BIKE TOUR
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Sept. 2-4, 2006
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted.
Please fill out all blanks.
Leader: Cliff Papin, (520) 403-5005
or cpapin@fund-net.com
Return this Form & your check to: GABA
P. O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733.
Options chosen: (Please circle):
Motel Camping
Vegetarian Non-Vegetarian
Pre-registration Fee:
GABA/ABC Members: $85 $_____
Non-Members: $95 $_____
Glenwood dinner: $12 $_____
Glenwood breakfast: $ 8 $_____
Alpine dinner: $12 $_____
Alpine breakfast: $ $ 8 $_____
DAY-OF-EVENT
GABA/ABC Members: $105 $_____
Non-members fee: $115 $_____
Total money enclosed: $_____
I am currently a GABA/ABC member: Yes No
NAME
(Print):_________________________________
ADDRESS:______________________________
CITY:__________________ ZIP:____________
PHONE: ( )
E-MAIL: ________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each registration form.
By Richard E Corbett,
Master Cycling Instructor & Certified Coach
This article is meant to help everyone remember and practice safe riding
techniques every time you approach & cross a cattle guard.
There is good news however. ADOT has been implementing a Program to fix cattle
guards by fastening the grates together in such a way as to keep them from
having gaps between the grate, almost all the time! They have also been removing
cattle guards that are no longer needed. Good work ADOT !!
Cyclists still need to be careful, keep a good watch, and cross cattle guards
with care.
Now, here is my perennial advice on cattle guards:
Cattle guards have been a part of the western roadscape for about a hundred
years and cyclists have been around here even longer. Unfortunately, the two
continue to come together occasionally in ways where the cyclists end up
"losing".
KEY POINTS
1. ALWAYS cross cattle guards straight, not at an angle!
2. Hold the handlebar firmly and coast if crossing a cattleguard that is wet.
Consider dismounting and walking across if in doubt as to your ability to cross
safely.
3. Do not slow down too much! Slow speed can cause you to lose control if your
front tire slips on the metal rail(s).
4. Rise off the saddle as you cross a cattle guard, using your knees and elbows
as shock absorbers.
5. Be alert as you approach the cattle guard, in case there is a structural
condition that could cause you to have a problem. These could include:
(1) Gaps between the grates parallel to your direction of travel;
(2) Gaps between the grates and the pavement, perpendicular (at a right angle)
to your direction of travel, on both the near and far sides; and
(3) differences in the height of adjacent grates, parallel to your direction of
travel. AVOID these if they are present!
GROUP CONSIDERATIONS
Many cattle guard problems occur when cyclists are riding in a group, so here
are some special considerations for the group setting.
1. The lead cyclist in a group must see and call out a cattle guard well in
advance. This gives enough time for every member of the group to see, evaluate,
decide, and steer an individually chosen path across the cattle guard.
2. ALWAYS choose your OWN path over a cattle guard. When riding with someone
else, especially when in a group, move apart enough so every member of the group
have their own clear view of the cattle guard, in plenty of time to pick a
different path. Don't rely on someone else to pick your path; they need to
concentrate on their own, and they don't have as much invested as you do (in
exactly where you ride).
Clearly, everyone, for their own safety, whether riding alone or in a group,
must see, evaluate, decide, and steer their own path across cattle guards.
Most of these points also apply to crossing railroad or trolley tracks.
There is now more interest in discovering
what Governor Napolitano has officially proclaimed as an "Arizona Treasure!"
Hello - My name is Richard Wertz. I am the Membership Chairman of the Arizona
Trail Association. As volunteers are steadily making the Arizona Trail a
reality, the ATA is working to increase its membership. We are asking hiking,
mountain biking, equestrians, and other outdoor groups to assist us in this
endeavor.
Currently, equestrians, mountain bikers, and hikers are using the Arizona Trail.
In fact, in the early fall, two ladies are going to attempt to complete the
Trail on horseback. This will be the first attempt to ride a horse from Utah to
Mexico in one trip. Of course, hikers and mountain bikers have accomplished that
same goal in the past.
Below are some other ways for you and your club to enjoy the Arizona Trail.
1. Visit the Arizona Trail Association Home Page at www.aztrail.org. This page
will guide you through lots of information about the Arizona Trail and the ATA.
It also has membership information available.
2. Take a stroll, ride, or hike through any of the 43 Arizona Trail passages.
You can access these passages through the web site.
3. Maybe you and your group will want to join one of work events on the trail.
They are a great place to meet hard working Arizona Trail enthusiasts and get a
close look at the trail. You can check out the events on the web site.
4. You might want to check out the ATA sponsored nature interpretive events.
5. The recently published Arizona Trail: The Official Guidebook by Tom Jones
makes for some interesting reading and is a great reference tool for the Trail.
6. Finally, the ATA in conjunction with National Public Lands Day and Mormon
Lake Lodge, is holding a fun weekend for ATA members September 29 thru October
1st at Mormon Lake. More details are on the web site. You must be a member
though.
Thanks for your consideration of putting these information out to your members.
See you on the Trail.
Richard Wertz
Membership Chairman, Arizona Trail Association
rawertz@commspeed.net
August 5 & 6, 2006
Join Kathy Mills for 2 days of pedaling in the pine trees!
She is organizing a "non-club sponsored" weekend of riding and fun in Flagstaff.
Drive up Friday night or Saturday morning in time to start at Lower Lake Mary
picnic area at 8 AM. Enjoy pine trees, blue skies, and cool temperatures!
Saturday: 4 ride options, starting at 8 AM:
1. Super short 20-mile ride around Mormon Lake;
2. Short 40-mile ride around Mormon Lake and south to Happy Jack;
3. Long 75-mile ride around Mormon Lake and south to Clint’s Well; and
4. Super long 100-mile ride to Strawberry and back.
Saturday evening, riders will meet at a restaurant for dinner at 6 PM. Stay at
one of the many hotels/motels available in the Flagstaff area. Check
www.flagstaffchamber.com for a list of options – from cabins to motels.
Sunday: 2 ride options, starting at 9 AM:
1. Sunset Crater/Wupatki Ruins, 49-mile loop. Plenty of climbing!
2. For less miles & a few hills, the shorter option skips the ruins and stays in
the pine trees near Sunset Crater for as few or many miles as you want.
Bring $5 each for entrance into the National Park.
As a "non-club sponsored" ride, there is no budget. Bring snacks to share at
rest stops (pretzels, peanut butter/bread, trail mix, fruit). Kathy will bring
water & Gatorade. Volunteers needed for support vehicle and rest stops.
To sign up:
Email Kathy at khendricks67@eathlink.net or call her at 480-759-7675 by August
2nd (Wed). Since this ride is not a club ride, signing up will let Kathy know
how many people will ride each distance for planning support. In the event of
continuous rain, the rides will be cancelled. It will not be cancelled for short
monsoon storms – a possibility.
Saturday, Sept. 16, 2006
Join us for a FREE ride through the Willcox countryside and a tour of EuroFresh
Farms. Meet in Willcox at the Cochise Airport at 8 AM for a 44-mile ride. Riders
of various cycling levels are all welcome!
Raffle tickets are being sold for a new Trek 1000: 1 for $3 or 6 for $15. *It is
not necessary to participate in the ride or be present to win*.
For more info, contact Lonnie Davis @ (520) 297-0822 or Earl Humphries@ (520)
507-2391, or eng1_98@ yahoo.com, or visit the GABA website to download a
printable flyer.
Want To Win A New Trek 1000?
Join the City of Willcox and the Fire Dept.
for a bicycle ride around Willcox
on Saturday, Sept. 16, 2006
How do I win? Join us for a FREE ride through Willcox countryside and a "Tour"
of EuroFresh Farms. Raffle tickets are being sold now thru the day of the ride.
*Not necessary to participate in the ride or to be present to win.*
Raffle Ticket Prices: 1 for $3. or 6 for $15.
When / Where / What time: Saturday, September 16, 2006 at 8 AM, starting from
Cochise County Airport in Willcox.
Cycling Level: All cycling levels are welcome. Gentle climb on the way out. 44
miles round trip.
More Questions: Contact Lonnie Davis @ (520) 297-0822 (leave a message) or Earl
Humphries @ (520) 507-2391.
Who is EuroFresh Farms? EuroFresh Farms sold over 100 million pounds of tomatoes
in 2004 of its premium quality, pesticide-free tomatoes, representing a
significant share of the U.S. greenhouse tomato market.
No other greenhouse is able to produce a consistent, high volume supply of
premium tomatoes throughout each month of the year. Even with 265 acres of
state-of-the-art greenhouses, the demand for EuroFresh Farms tomatoes still
outpaces current production capacity.
EuroFresh Farms has implemented computerized climate systems, which control
critical growing parameters like temperature, humidity, light, irrigation,
ventilation and carbon dioxide levels within the greenhouses. This
highly-controlled growing environment, in conjunction with the ideal growing
conditions in southern Arizona, allows EuroFresh Farms to generate consistent
yields of high-quality tomatoes throughout the year.
Gila Inner Loop Bicycle Tour
September 9 & 10, 2006
Sponsored by the Silver Spokes Bicycle Club of Silver City, this tour has it all
– beautiful vistas and light traffic on well-paved winding mountain roads
through some of the most beautiful country the Land of Enchantment has to offer,
plenty of good food and entertainment!
DAY 1: Ride 45 miles from Silver City to Camp Thunderbird. For a greater
challenge, add 17 to 43 more miles by taking a side trip to Clinton P. Anderson
Vista or the Gila Cliff Dwellings. Start at 5,900 feet and climb to 7,473 feet
at the highest point. Ride north on New Mexico Highway 15, a narrow, winding
mountain road through Ponderosa forest. There are some fast downhills, tight
curves and no lane markings, so caution is in order. Vehicle traffic is light,
which makes for a very pleasant ride.
DAY 2: Return to Silver City through the Mimbres Valley with optional side trips
through San Lorenzo and to the Kneeling Nun Vista. Distances range from 35 to 52
miles for a week-end total of 84 to 140 miles.
Your Registration Fee Includes:
Sag Support: Baggage transported; you and your bike transported if necessary;
rest stops with fruit, cookies, bagels, water, sports drinks, etc.
Meals: Dinner and breakfast, as well as a lunch buffet upon your arrival at Camp
Thunderbird.
Lodging: Saturday night at Camp Thunderbird, a private camp in the Mimbres
Valley, which will provide dinner, breakfast, shower facilities, bunkhouses with
bunk beds & mattresses, and outdoor camping.
Free hot showers Sunday after the ride just across the street from the finish at
WNMU swimming pool from 1 PM to 4 PM. Thanks to Barbara James, WNMU Director of
Special Events for arranging access to the showers!
Start: Begin and end in the Western New Mexico University parking lot, 12th
Street & Louisiana, in Silver City. Registration & check-in from 8 to 9:30 AM on
Saturday. If planning to go all the way to the Cliff Dwellings, register at 8
AM.
Cost: $60 per rider, $45 per non-rider.
Limit: 130 people.
Weather: Expect daytime temperatures of 70's and 80's, with nights down to the
40's and 50's. Afternoon thundershowers are possible.
One room of one of the bunkhouses will be designated for snorers, and heavy
sleepers who don't mind those who snore. If you snore, look for this designated
room. Or camp outside. Thank you!
For more information and to register; please visit their website at
www.twinsisterscycling.com/gila_inner_loop_bicycle_tour.
Alphabetical listing of GABA-Tucson's Supporting Members. See back page for
individual ads.
Abelson, Todd, Mtg planner 901-7160
Ajo Bikes 294-1434
Bargain Basement 624-2331
Broadway Bicycles 296-7819
Darnall, Jeanie 886-9561
Fair Wheel Bicycles 884-9018
Green Valley Bike & Hike 393-7433
Guimont, Barry 390-3211
M & M Cycling Sierra Vista
New Body Studios 360-5912
Oro Valley Bicycle- 544-5999
Performance Bicycle 296-4715
Pima Street Bicycle 326-4044
R & R Bicycle 579-7829
Sabino Cycles 885-3666
Sun Jerseys None
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 to June 30 of the
next year. Ad sizes are 1 3/4" x 3". All paid-up sponsors' ads run on the July
Update cover. Contact Ram Salcedo, Bike Shop Coordinator, salcedo@flash.net or
733-0230.)
By Tony Everett, President
The Gold Designation from the League of American Bicyclists, (LAB), for the
Tucson Region is the result of a major effort from a group of people who have
worked tirelessly on this for years. As we move toward the Platinum designation,
we must address the deficiencies noted by L.A.B. with this year’s application
One of these is the enforcement of traffic laws as they apply to cyclists.
Between January 2004, and October 2005, 22 months, the Tucson police responded
to 355 accidents involving bicycles. Their estimate is that it is roughly a
50/50 split on responsibility between vehicles and bicycles. I probably drive my
car more than the average driver, and frequently see accidents about to happen.
Last week, it nearly involved me, as I waited to make a right turn, watching the
traffic on the left. It was only that last second check to the right that
prevented me from pulling out into the path of a cyclist heading south in the
northbound lanes of Craycroft. Drivers generally don’t expect traffic from that
direction in that lane. He had just come out of a parking lot, and was nowhere
in sight when I stopped to wait for an opening.
If the police had been present, should this cyclist receive a ticket? Should
cyclists riding three or four abreast be cited? These are tough questions, which
could be better addressed in the education arena.
One of the easiest places to do this is the "Road I" course offered locally by
the League of American Bicyclists. While many of us have logged thousands of
miles on our bicycles, it is sometimes good to go back to basics. I recently
took this course, and can absolutely promise you I learned things which I had
forgotten, never thought about, or may have fallen into that short term memory
trap. These classes are offered by League Certified Instructors, and make us
safer riders. More information about these courses can be obtained from
www.bikeleague.org.
We are going to see the traffic laws as they relate to vehicles and cyclists
more strictly enforced. The Tucson Police and Pima County Sheriff’s department
are working with local advocacy groups to enforce the laws which make cycling
safer. After all, isn’t arriving home without incident one of our goals?
Be Careful, Ride Safe, and Enjoy.
NEW:
Nancy Hagedorn; Bill Ogroski; Becky Aaparicio; Michael Johnson; Lance Tripoli;
Herbert & Gail Grove; Kimberly Williams; Jess Lambe; Michael Eales; Brad
Lawrence; David Taylor; Michelle Dunn; Raymond Pisciotta; Murray Robertson;
Dennis Lamb; Joe Kelley; Harry Furhman; Michael Allen; Rich Roellie; Bur Temple;
Richard Gacher; Gary Padolny.
RENEWING:
Bruce Clayton; Marty Gawlik; Dennis Larson; Carole Leiker; Roger Radcliff; Steve
Rivera; Jack & Guenda Spafford; F. Dale Caughlin; Paul Fishman; Peter Shibuya;
Susan Winder & Paul Cervantes; Kat Minnella; Melanie Daniel; Michael Wodd; Tim
Mathes; Steve Dorfman; Tony & Nancy Crosby; George & Eileen Dudley; Doug
Crockett; Andy & Laura Meyer; Lida Hayden; Stephen Cohen; Steve & Donna Kanoza;
Marshall Rakosky & Karen Kalk; Len Wilson.
GABA Gear Order Form
Club Jerseys and Anniversary T-Shirts Sizes available: S, M, L, XL, XXL.
(If not sure of your size, check louisgarneau.com for proper sizing) EACH
Jersey Styles: Sleeveless, Men's & Women’s: $47.00
W/Sleeves, Men's & Women's: $50.00
Postage & handling per ORDER (includes Tracking): $ 7.50
Anniversary T-Shirts: ON SALE! 2 tees for $10 $ 5.00
Postage & handling per ORDER: $ 4.00
Club Socks and Cross State Socks: ON SALE! 2 pairs for $5 $ 2.50
Bar Map Holders: ON SALE! 2 for $5 $ 2.50
Postage & handling per ORDER of socks/holder: $ 2.00
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Size How Many Price
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Jerwey - Sleeveless - men's: ____ ____ _____
Jersey - Sleeveless – women’s: ____ ____ _____
Jersey - With Sleeves, - men's: ____ ____ _____
Jersey - With Sleeves, - women's: ____ ____ _____
Anniversary T-Shirt: ____ ____ _____
Club Socks (Defeet): ____ ____ _____
Cross State Socks (Sock Guy): ____ ____ _____
Bar Map Holders: ____ ____ _____
Add for postage & handling: jerseys: _____
Add for postage & handling : t-shirt:
Add for postage & handling: socks/holders: _____
Total money enclosed (checks or money orders ONLY) $_________
Make checks payable to GABA-Tucson. Mail to P.O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733
NAME: ___________________________________________________________
ADDRESS: ________________________________________________________
CITY: _________________ STATE: ___ ZIP: ________ PHONE: _____________
You may also purchase jerseys at GABA meetings on the 1st Monday of the month,
OR contact Andy Stevens, (520) 990-1459 or
andy@solvomassage.com
Deadline: SEPT. 1, 2006
By Andy Stevens, Merchandise Coordinator
The current jersey artwork has served us well, but the 2007 jerseys will get a
fresh look and we’d like your help with the design.
The deadline for the contest is September 1st, 2006. The winner will receive a
free jersey that features his or her design.
The contest is not limited to GABA members. We would like to encourage
interested persons to throw their artistic weight behind making this contest a
good challenge.
The GABA Board of Directors will decide the winner and work with that designer
to produce next year’s new look.
Our new design requires a palette of a maximum of 4 colors in addition to white,
and must take into account the fact that we have jerseys that are both short
sleeved and sleeveless.
Please contact Andy Stevens at 520-990-1459 or at andy@solvomassage.com if you
need more information or access to a jersey template.
by Pam Cullop, Ride Organizer
And what a humdinger it was! We had it all…blue skies, tailwinds (side and
headwinds too), friendly riders ranging from 10 years old on up, bikes from
nearly any category you might like to name, great SAG Support, wonderful food
(at rest stops and prepared meals alike), lots of laughs, and well, you get the
idea…it was a fantastic ride!
This year, 96 riders in all decided to spend Memorial Weekend in the White
Mountains on one of GABA’S most popular of rides, the Luna Lake Tour. For some,
this was a first-time experience on either a multi-day ride, or on a GABA ride.
Three tandems were parent (captain)–child (stoker) teams. Two of the kids were
12 years old, and the youngest was 10. All rode the entire 165-mile route
without a single “sag”…pretty darned impressive! There were other tandem teams
comprised of “couples”. One of these couples routinely breaks out a pair of
flip-flops at each sag stop. Bike socks grace the handlebars of their
two-seater, while they cool their tootsies and relax a bit. They are hoping to
set a trend…sounds like fun, I might give it a try sometime. Mountain bikes
outfitted with smooth tires made the 3-day ride right alongside the disorienting
array of road bikes! It was pretty awesome to see. I must mention that my
husband, Wayne, and a buddy of his rode our fairly new recumbent tandem on the
tour together. The stoker (Dave) was happiest when one of the downhill speeds
finally reached 52.7 miles per hour! All I can say is I am sure glad I wasn’t
sitting behind Wayne…that hand break positioned at the bottom of the stoker seat
would definitely have been engaged!
Meals as mentioned were delicious. Our thanks go out to the Girls Volleyball
Team, and their coach, Carm Chavez in Quemado. These meals (dinner and
breakfast) are prepared and served at Quemado School (campsite) in the
cafeteria, by Carm and girls. This fund-raising activity is used for Volleyball
Camp. Our riders can be proud of the fact that 3 of the 11 girls will be
attending camp this year, courtesy of GABA.
In Reserve, Jenn and staff of the Little Adobe Café and Bakery, served some of
the most delicious meals you could imagine, in the Community Center. It cost a
little more money for the food, but the portions were huge, the service was
outstanding, but most of all – the food was really, really good!
Added bonus in Reserve came by way of the mayor. He personally welcomed campers,
while they rested in and about their tents in the community park. We understand
that he expressed admiration and support for what they were doing (riding 165
miles in a weekend). I believe that is what’s called “small town hospitality”!
On the ride we had some outstanding support, without whom the ride would not be
nearly so much fun for anyone (including /especially me)! My Co-Leader Cliff
Papin, and his charming assistant Jill Oliver, covered the front half of the
ride; I covered the back half – what a treat! I will call this couple the
“dynamic duo”. They wore many hats throughout the weekend, and were an
invaluable asset to the ride!
A Springerville resident and cyclist, Dustin Walters volunteered his services
via e-mail, what a find! Dustin worked first Sweep as if he had been around GABA
rides forever!
Stuart Carter covered the rear as Sweep 2. We refer to him as a GABA Sweep
“extraordinaire”. One cannot sing the praises of Stuart highly enough. Put a
cyclist on the road – and you never worry. If you know Stuart…enough said.
Jerry Imel drove the 16’ Ryder Rental and did “Baggage Duty”. Jerry works as
hard as laughs and teases. In addition to timely bag drop off and pick-ups,
Jerry was willing to assist wherever his service were needed; always with a joke
– and a friendly smile!
At SAG 1 the veteran volunteer GABA Team: Pat & Dennis (DJ) James. Pat as the
“food gal”: making PB&J sandwiches upon request, keeping oranges and bananas
freshly sliced, and having an assortment “breakfast snacks” and juices available
at her neatly appointed “food tables”. DJ kept water igloos and ice chests
refilled, engaged riders in conversation, and most important of all – kept the
“Oldies” on the truck’s CD player pumping out great music! (Loved those Beach
Boys!)
Paired up at SAG 2 each day Pat Uebel (yet another veteran GABA volunteer) and
Scott Audilet, newer GABA volunteer- but not so new that he doesn’t know his way
around the SAG Stop! Scott was seen slicing petite dill pickles into thin strips
for layering on turkey or ham sandwiches! Each fellow brought a special talent
to the ride that worked! Thanks, guys.
One of the Luna Lake riders (Bill Ogroski) was an “unofficial photographer” for
the tour. Seemingly everywhere I went, there was Bill snapping some truly
amazing candid (okay, some were posed) shots. I know the shots were amazing,
because I asked him to send them to my email address. If you would like him to
send them to you, he would be happy to. Contact info for Bill: wrodist@cox.net.
Let me not forget to thank the Saturday Morning volunteers who helped out at
Check In: All arrived early to help set up the Check In venue. Dave Koenig
(Wayne’s tandem partner) directed the designated parking in the Safeway lot.
Jerry and Cliff loaded all of the bags and gear after Ram Salcedo made sure they
were all properly tagged. Jill Oliver dispensed Luna Lake ride tees designed by
GABA member, Eric Post. Chris Salcedo and Wayne checked in registered riders.
Wayne also filled the roll as Emcee for the nightly dinner meetings, and had the
pleasure of awarding raffle prizes such as: 1 free Blue Loop entry, 2-Tumacacori
entries, some new GABA anniversary tees and water bottles, and GABA memberships.
No matter the year, the ride crew, or even the weather, this ride continues to
be one of GABA’S most popular tours because of the wide variety of spectacular
scenery and rural connections that one might experience in three short days.
Pine trees, mountains, rolling hills, small fishing holes, sweeping valley
vistas, roads with precious little traffic (perfect for riding), herds of
grazing antelope, charming little communities, old fashioned grocery stores, and
a wonderful assembling of “pedaling pals” to ride with. Sign up next year for
this one – you won’t be sorry you did!
In lieu of our regular monthly meeting,
we have a very special treat in store for you
on the 2nd Monday in July.
No speakers, no programs, and no one
to keep you from visiting, chatting, gabbing, oh…and listening, to anyone
lucky enough to be at the meeting.
Believe it or not, it is just a night of sipping on and slurping down your
choice of
one or more of the delightfully fruity and refreshingly icy, concoctions called
an “eegee”!
Mmm…eegees, munchy snacks,
hangin’ with our buds…
Please come as our guests!
Regular GABA meeting time – 7 PM
Regular GABA meeting place: 5199 E Farness Dr
Different GABA Monday – July 10th –
Second Monday in July!
Support these Bike Shops
Who are GABA Sponsors
for 2006