April 2007 Update

Upcoming Rides At a Glance

April Meeting

May Meeting

Upcoming Events Calendar

Sunrise-Sunset Time

Classifieds

New This Year! The Triangle L Ranch Overnighter

Answer to the Challenge

2007 Sonoita-Bisbee Spring Bike Tour

The Tucson Bicycle Classic Is BACK!

Salt River Canyon Bike Ride

Announcing The Annual GABA Ice Cream Social!

Bike Swap Volunteers Pizza Party!

Visit the Bike Swap GABA Table

Tour of the Tucson Mountains Training Rides for C + Riders Continue

How to be More Comfortable with Saddles & Shorts

15th Annual Mt. Lemmon Hill Climb

GABA’S Annual Ice Cream/Bike Ride Social

Welcome New & Renewing Members!

- T T M - 21st Annual Tour of the Tucson Mountains

Words from Tony - RIDE OF SILENCE

Luna Lake Bike Tour

27th Annual Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure

GABA Donates New Bike Rack at Saguaro National Park East

10th Annual Ride for the Children

GABA Purposes & Objectives

Update Deadlines & Classified Ads

Potholes, Graffiti, Trimming & Road Hazards

Club-Owned Bike Travel Cases Available

You Didnt Receive Your UPDATE in the Mail

Check the following sites for more rides!

RAIN OR SNOW

Ride of Silence Events Scheduled

Earn GABA BucksWhen You Volunteer to Help on a Ride!

 

Upcoming Rides At a Glance

(See related articles in this issue for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders E-Mail
3/31 (Sat) El Tour de Phoenix PBAA www.perimeterbicycling.com
4/1 (Sun) El Bike Swap de Tucson GABA-Tucson Greg Yares swapmeet@bikegaba.org
4/14 & 15 Sonoita-Bisbee Bike Ride GABA-Tucson Suzanne Couvrette Update-editor@bikegaba.org
4/28 & 29 Triangle L Ranch Overnighter GABA-Tucson Cathy Crandall catcran@cox.net
4/27-29 Answer to the Challenge PMBC Dick Landis www.sportsfun.com
4/29 (Sun) Tour de Tucson Mountains PBAA www.perimeterbicycling.com
5/5 & 6 Salt River Canyon Bike Ride GABA-Tucson Bolt & Klenke overnights@bikegaba.org
5/11 (Fri) Mt Lemmon Hill Climb GABA-Tucson Steve Wilson wilsons@us.ibm.com
5/26-28 Luna Lake Bike Tour GABA-Tucson Pam Cullop socialdirector@bikegaba.org
Top of Page

 

April Meeting

Monday, April 2 at 7 PM

Join us tonight
as we welcome Ralph and Sherry Phillips
who will share with us
slides and stories
of their bicycle touring in Italy.
Public welcome!
Top of Page

 

May Meeting

Monday, May 7 at 7 PM

Please join Steve Wilson and Patricia Lebensohn
for stories and pictures
of riding their bicycles
in the Fireweed 400 race last summer
along with other cycling,
hiking, backpacking,
and sightseeing
in south central Alaska.
See the ice, animals, and flowers of Alaska
up close and personal!
Public welcome!
Top of Page
 

Upcoming Events Calendar

APRIL 2007

Apr. 1 (SUN): EL BIKE SWAP DE TUCSON. GABA-Tucson On 4th Avenue, 8 AM-1 PM. Free to all. Organizer: Greg Yares, swapmeet@bikegaba.org or 323-9020. With City of Tucson Clean Air Fair Events.

April 13-15: 21st Annual TUCSON BICYCLE CLASSIC STAGE RACE. TBC. Organizer: Steve Bohn, www.tucsonbicycleclassic.com.

April 14 (Sat): BIKE SWAP - Phoenix. Phoenix Municipal Stadium, 7 AM-1 PM, Kiwanis Park, Tempe. CAzB. www.cazbike.com.

April 14 & 15: SONOITA-BISBEE BIKE TOUR. GABA-Tucson. Suzanne Couvrette, Update-editor@ bikegaba.org. 69 mi/day, or New this year: option for 45 mi/day. Sonoita to Bisbee and back via backroads around the Huachuca Mountains. Rolling terrain, a few good hills. Great dinner at the Copper Queen Hotel in Bisbee on Saturday night!

Apr. 27-29: 29th LA VUELTA DE BISBEE. For info, check www.lvdb.info.

April 27-28-29 : ANSWER TO THE CHALLENGE. PMBC. Scottsdale to Strawberry to Prescott and back to the start on the 3rd day. Very hilly and demanding ride for experienced riders. Ride Organizer: Dick Landis www.sportsfun.com/gaba.

April 28 & 29: TRIANGLE L RANCH OVER-NIGHTER. GABA-Tucson. 58 miles each day. Ride from Tucson to Oracle. Rustic cottages, meals, sag support. Limited number of riders. Organizer: Cathy Crandall, 624-8680 or catcran@cox.net.

April 29 (Sun): TTM XXI - TOUR OF THE TUCSON MOUNTAINS. Organized by PBAA (520) 745-2033 or www.perimeterbicycling.com.

MAY 2007

May 5 & 6: SALT RIVER CANYON BIKE TOUR. GABA-Tucson. Globe to Show Low & back the next day. Great scenery, major climbs for experienced riders. Ride Leader: Judy Bolt, 512-0442 or overnights@bikegaba.org and Bob Klenke, 825-2601 or bobmarie1003@aol.com.

May 11 (Fri): Mt Lemmon Hill Climb. GABA-Tucson. Leader, Steve Wilson, wilsons@us.ibm.com or 870-5282. Climb 26 miles to the top. Lunch in Summerhaven. Small fee to cover sag support.

May 12 (Sat): 9th Annual SEDONA CENTURY. 40 miles or metric century through beautiful red rock country. Absolute Bikes, www.absolutebikes.net.

May 12 (Tentative): TOUR OF PAYSON. PMBC. www.sportsfun.com/gaba.

May 19 (Sat): WHISKEY OFF-ROAD MTN BIKE RIDE. In Prescott. Todd Sadow, epicrides.com.

May 26-28: LUNA LAKE TOUR GABA-Tucson www.bikegaba.org. Approx. 60 miles per day, from Springerville to Quemado, to Reserve and back to Springerville on 3rd day. Very little traffic, some good climbs, great scenery. Leader: Pam Cullop, (520) 290-4321 or socialdirector@bikegaba.org.

JUNE 2007

June 3 (Sun): MT HOPKINS HILLCLIMB MTN BIKE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. Ride Leader, Tom Ward. www.bikegaba.org. Mt Hopkins is a 9,000 foot peak south of Green Valley. Mix of dirt and paved roads. 12 miles to the top.

June ?: GRAND CANYON TOUR. Organized by ABC Bike Club. www.azbikeclub.com.

JULY 2007

July 4 (Wed): TOUR FOR TUCSON’S CHILDREN City of Tucson Parks & Rec. Contact Lisa or Jesus at 791-4969, or e-mail Lisa.Sommer@tucsonaz.gov.

July 14 & 15 : DAVE FREUND MEMORIAL WHITE MOUNTAIN TOUR. PMBC. Show Low to Springerville via Vernon; & Springerville back to Show Low via Sunrise. www.sportsfun.com

July 21: TAYLOR HOUSE BENEFIT RIDE . 45, 65 and 95-mile course. Organized by Absolute Bikes. In Flagstaff. www.absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html

AUGUST 2007

Aug. ?: FLAGSTAFF MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL. Organized by Absolute Bikes. In Flagstaff. www. absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html

SEPTEMBER 2007

Sept. 1-3: THE BLUE LOOP. GABA-Tucson. Morenci to Glenwood, NM; Glenwood to Alpine, AZ; and Alpine back to Morenci via the famous "Coronado Trail". Very scenic ride, but demanding and challenging terrain for experienced riders. www.bikegaba.org.

Sept. ? : GILA INNER LOOP. Starting in Silver City, New Mexico. Contact twinsisters@gilanet.com

Sept. 9 (Sun): START OF “EL TOUR” TRAINING RIDES. GABA-Tucson. www.bikegaba.org.

Sept. 15 & 16: PROPOSED FALL SONOITA-BISBEE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. www.bikegaba.org.

Sept. 16 (Sun): 3RD ANNUAL JERRY DOSS MEMORIAL LOOP CHALLENGE. 96-mi Challenge, 54-mi Loop & 10 Fun Ride. For information, contact: Karen Warrick, Prescott Cycling Club Newsletter, 928-713-9811 or kwarrick@cableone.net.

Sept. 29 & 30 and Oct. 1-6: GREAT ARIZONA BICYCLE ADVENTURE. 27th Annual. 500+ mile camping/ motel Tour across Arizona - from West to East on Route 66 - this year! www.bikegaba.org.

OCTOBER 2007

Oct. 6 (Sat) SHOW LOW BLUFF OF THE WHITE MOUNTAINS. Mountain bike event in the Pinetop-Lakeside area. 10-66 mile single day endurance. Benefits Navapache Regional Medical Center. epicrides.com. Limited to 600 riders.

Oct. 13 (Sat): COCHISE COUNTY CLASSIC XX. Organized by PBAA. www.perimeterbicycling.com.

Oct. 13 (Sat) : MEMORIAL RIDE FOR SAFETY. In Phoenix. PMBC for CAzB. www.sportsfun.com or www.cazbike.org.

Oct. 13 & 14: CAVE CREEK OVERNIGHT RIDE. GABA-Tucson. On east side of the Chiricahua Mountains, from Road Forks, NM to Portal, AZ. www.bikegaba.org. Leader: Rhonda Smith, (520) 886-2919. onekewlmom@ hotmail.com.

Oct. 20 (Sat) HEART OF ARIZONA CENTURY. Organized by the Bullshifters Club, Phoenix. Starts in Congress, AZ. For information, contact Jim Pettett at jimandrobinpetttett@msn.com, or visit their website at www.bullshifters.org.

Oct. 21 (Sun): GENE CHAPMAN MEMORIAL TUMACACORI CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Most options start in Sahuarita, south of Tucson, and go to the well-known Tumacacori Mission. Ride Leaders: Judy & Bob Bolt, 512-0442, overnights@bikegaba.org. or www.bikegaba.org.

Oct. ? : SOUL RIDE MOUNTAIN BIKE. In Oracle. Todd Sadow, www.epicrides.com.

Oct. ? (SAT): TOUR DE FARM. Diabetes Exercise and Sports Association. www.tourdefarm.com.

Oct ? (Sun) : PALO VERDE NUCLEAR CENTURY. GABA-West Valley. www.sportsfun.com.

NOVEMBER 2007

Nov. ?: MS 150. Multiple Sclerosis Society. http://ms150.dsw.nmss.org

Nov. 4 (Sun): SILVERBELL CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Options for 60 or 100 miles Scenic course north and west of Tucson. www.bikegaba.org.

Nov. ? (Sat): McDOWELL CENTURY. ABC. Options for a metric century and a half-metric century as well. www.azbikeclub.com

Nov. 10 (Sat): EL BIKE SWAP DE TUCSON. GABA-Tucson. On historic 4th Avenue! Quaint central area where vendors set up on each side of the Avenue. Great turn-out at no charge to anyone! Greg Yares, (520) 323-9020 or swapmeet@bikegaba.org or www.bikegaba.org.

Nov. 15-18: LEAGUE OF AMERICAN BICYCLISTS 2007 NAT'L BICYCLE RALLY, held in conjunction with the 25th Anniversary El Tour de Tucson.

Nov. 17 (Sat): EL TOUR DE TUCSON XXV. PBAA. 25th annual. Counterclockwise course again this year! 4 different options! More than 8,000 riders! Many sag stops along the course and thousands of volunteers to make your experience a pleasant one! For info, (520) 745-2033 or visit www.perimeterbicycling.com


DECEMBER 2007

Dec. 2 (Sun): TUMACACORI FESTIVAL RIDE. GABA-Tucson. 30-40 mi to breakfast at Zula's in Nogales. Start from Tumacacori Mission & return to enjoy food, craft & entertainment. For Mission info, call Tumacacori Nat'l Historical Park at (520) 398-2341. www.bikegaba.org

Dec. 3 (Mon): GABA-Tucson ANNUAL HOLIDAY POTLUCK. GABA-Tucson. At regular month meeting location. Bring a dish to share with others in the spirit of the season! Everybody is welcome! Short program with awards and recognition to deserving members! Organizer: Pam Cullop, socialdirector@bikegaba.org.

Dec. 8 (Sat): TOYS FOR TOTS BIKE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. Bring one or more unwrapped toys to carry on your bike as we pedal to the zoo to deliver our toys. www.bikegaba.org
Top of Page
 

Sunrise-Sunset Time

Tucson Az Mtn Standard Time
APRIL
RISE SET
AM PM
1: 6:13 6:43
7: 6:05 6:47
14: 5:57 6:52
21: 5:48 6:57
28: 5:41 7:02
MAY
RISE SET
AM PM
1: 5:38 7:04
7: 5:33 7:08
14: 5:27 7:13
21: 5:23 7:18
28: 5:19 7:23
Top of Page
 

Classifieds


COMPANION(S) WANTED to tour in the Czech Republic and/or Slovakia. Leaving from Prague 7/5. Final destination: to visit family in Slovakia. Returning to Prague 7/25. Combination of train & bike OK with biking time in Czech Republic and/or Slovakia. Do not hesitate to contact me if you think you might be interested. Contact Robin: nibor@dakotacom.net.

COMPANION WANTED for Summer Ride Across America. Responsible, experienced male cyclist with touring experience wanted to join 3 males, to ride the Adventure Cycling TRANS-AMERICA route, west to east (Astoria, OR to Yorktown, VA). Start riding last week in May. Average 65 mi/day. Mostly camping w/motel every 4-5 nights. Spend one week in Jackson Hole, WY. If interested, contact Rich for more details, (520) 623-0017 or kc7ovm@dakotacom.net.
Top of Page

 

New This Year! The Triangle L Ranch Overnighter

April 28-29, 2007


By Cathy Crandall, Ride Leader

Bicycle this 58-mile Tour where the desert meets the northern slopes of the Catalina Mountains. Climb to 4,500 feet, smell the fresh air and restore your spirit! Explore the 50 acres of this historic ranch, or just relax on the porch of your cozy guest cottage. Watch the sunset after an invigorating bicycle ride, delight yourself in the star-filled skies, and hear the call of the great horned owls.

Bird and wildlife watching is a great pastime at Triangle L Ranch. Hawks, ravens, rabbits, roadrunners, quails, chipmunks and many species of songbirds are evident during the day. At night, owls, javelinas, bobcats and coyotes are frequent visitors. Visit the goose and chickens and "Mojave", the adopted wild burro. Desert flowers, cactus and native flora abound on the property. Visit the iris garden near the main house.

This ranch accommodations will take you back in time. Whitewashed adobe buildings with red tin roofs dwell in the shade of giant oaks as you enter this unique homestead dating from the 1880's. The old windmill still stands as a landmark from another era. Buffalo Bill is said to have been a regular visitor at the ranch once upon answera time! Rustic cottages and sleeping porches await you. And a great social hour under the stars!

Limited number for this year. The ride fee is $75 for GABA members and $80 for non-members. Your fee includes sag support along the route for both days; social mixer with snacks, slide show & guitar music; dinner on Saturday evening and breakfast on Sunday morning; lodging, bedding, towels and hot showers.

There will be rooms for 15 people this year. Accommodations are as follows:
Hill House Cottage has 3 bedrooms 1 queen, 1 double, 2 twins;
Guest House Cottage has 1 queen, 2 twins on porch inside;
Towbridge Suite 1 queen, 1 couch in same room;
Main house has 1 single on porch inside.
As you can see, it helps to be very good friends with whom you will share a bed or cottage. Please indicate person(s) on the registration form.

Tour begins at 8:30 AM, April 28, 2007 at Pima College West Campus (Anklam Rd. side not Speedway side). For more information, contact Ride Leader Catherine Crandall, catcran@cox.net or 400-8476.

 

PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Triangle L Ranch Bike Ride
April 28 & 29 , 2007
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all blanks.

Leader: Cathy Crandall, 400-8476, catcran@cox.net

Return this Form & your check to:
GABA P.O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733

Options chosen: (Please circle)
Vegetarian: Yes No (SAG stops food/meals)

I would like to room with:

___________________________________________
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $75 $______
Non-Members: $80 $______
(Must be received by 4/15)
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!

 


Top of Page

 

Answer to the Challenge

More than a bike ride—A cult happening!
Friday, Saturday & Sunday April 27, 28 & 29

There are three types of riders who attempt this ride. Racers start at first light, stop only for Cytomax & water and arrive in beautiful downtown Strawberry (population 35) ready for a full afternoon of activities. Tourists 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 ft of climb over 3 days. The 1st day, Scottsdale to Strawberry climbs 10,000 ft. The 2nd day to Prescott climbs another 6,600 ft. and crosses windy Prescott Valley. Distance on the 3rd day is 127 miles. Be prepared for cold in the mountains and heat in the desert.

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 Windmill Corner Inn for suggestions of other B&B’s and lodges in the area.
Windmill Corner Inn 928-476-3064
Strawberry Hill Cabins 928-476-4252 or 480-575-7866
Strawberry Lodge 928-476-3333

Prescott baggage drop-off and pickup will be at America’s Best Value Inn, Sheldon St. (formerly Super 8) which fills up early. Nearby motels are:
America’s Best (Sheldon St.) 928-776-1282
Motel 6 (Sheldon St.) 800-466-8356
Best Western (Gurley St.) 800-528-1234
Colony Inn (Gurley St.) 928-445-7057

WHEN: Fri, Sat, Sun, April 27, 28 & 29. Check-in opens at 5 AM. First riders out at 5:30 AM, last sag leaves at 6:30 AM. Slower riders, please start early.

WHERE: Landis Cyclery Scottsdale at the SE corner of Scottsdale Rd. & Shea Blvd.

TO REGISTER: For additional information and Registration Forms, e-mail Dick Landis at rlandis@algxmail.com or check the website: www.sportsfun.com.
Top of Page
 

2007 Sonoita-Bisbee Spring Bike Tour


April 14 & 15, 2007


New This Year! Option for 45 miles each day,
in addition to the full course of 69 miles each day!
- Course with Minimized Traffic!
- Mostly on Scenic Backroads!
- Three Great Sag Stops!
- Gourmet Copper Queen Hotel Dinner - must be prepaid with your ride fee. Choice of 2 seatings: 5:30 PM or 6:30 PM!
- 6 AM Copper Queen Hotel Breakfast - must be pre-paid with your ride fee! It pays to leave early to avoid afternoon winds!

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 Mule Mountains.

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 southeast on Hwy 83, and feast your eyes on rolling grassland country with the lofty Huachuca Mountains at the horizon.

DAY ONE: 69 miles, via Canelo, Fort Huachuca, Palominas to Bisbee.
Ride southeast out of the Santa Cruz Fairgrounds in Sonoita towards Canelo. The route will be marked with GABA signs at all turns. Watch for a few cattle guards, which will also be marked. Look for Sag #1 at about 18 miles into the ride. Several short climbs bring you to the West Gate of Fort Huachuca. Show photo-ID.

Continue thru the Fort with a few more short steep hills followed by a rolling descent to Sag #2, at about 30 miles into the ride at Smiley field Ball Park for a well-deserved rest and some needed food. Then, continue east and exit Fort Huachuca thru the Main Gate. Follow GABA signs. Your route takes you southeast on Buffalo Soldier Trail, then winds on St Andrews to Yaqui which will have a traffic signal to help you cross Hwy 92. Continue east on Camino Principal, Campobello, Ramsey Rd., Moson, and Hereford Rd. to Sag #3, near Palominas, at about 49 miles into the ride.

Continue East on Hereford Rd. and cross the new bridge over the Santa Cruz River. The last 10 miles of gradual climb will be on Hwy 92. At the Round-About, follow signs to the town of Bisbee. As you enter downtown Bisbee, campers continue through town about 1 mile to the Copperman statue. Follow GABA signs to Higgins Park where your luggage will be delivered. Luggage to the many B & B's will also be awaiting other riders. Scrumptious meal (pre-paid) at the Copper Queen: at 5:30 PM OR at 6:30 PM. Door prizes awarded at both seatings: you must be present to win!

DAY TWO: 69 miles via Palominas, Fort Huachuca & Canelo to Sonoita
After a good breakfast, prepare yourself for a long gradual 20-mile descent, as you pedal SOUTH past the Lavender Pit to Hereford Rd. Turn right and follow it across the bridge to Palominas Rd. where Sag #1 will be set up at about 20 miles into the ride.

Continue west gradually climbing to Sierra Vista, cross Hwy 92 at traffic light, and retrace your Saturday route back to the Main Gate of Fort Huachuca. Show your photo-ID at the Main Gate. Look for Sag #2 for lunch at about 42 miles into the ride at Brock Field Ball Park. Then, continue towards the West Gate, with a few short steeper hills.

After exiting the Fort with a few short, but steeper climbs, the course will be mostly rolling hills back to Sonoita. Sag #3 will have food & water. Luggage will be back at the Fairgrounds by 11 AM.


RIDERS: You MUST HAVE A PHOTO-ID TO RIDE THRU FT HUACHUCA.
ALL CARS: Must Have a Current Proof of Registration and Insurance
ALL DRIVERS & PASSENGERS: Need Photo-ID to Drive Thru the Fort.

STARTING POINT:
Saturday Morning in Sonoita at the Fairgrounds, intersection of Hwys 82 & 83.
Allow at least 1 hour driving time from Tucson to Sonoita, more if you are coming from the northwest side.

CAMPING ON FRIDAY NIGHT: Camping with restrooms available on Friday night at the Sonoita Fairgrounds.

SIGN-IN TIME: Register between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM. Baggage truck will depart no later than 8 AM. Sign in, drop your dufflebag labeled with color-coded motel tags, and pick up your ride map. Start riding as soon as you are ready!

COPPER QUEEN DINNER:
$18 per person. Must be paid ahead of time with your ride fee.
Two seatings available: 5:30 PM and 6:30 PM. Please choose at sign-in.
Available to the first 100 pre-registered riders only. Limited seating.

COPPER QUEEN BREAKFAST: (Starts at 6 AM)
$12 per person. Must be paid ahead of time with your ride fee.

LUGGAGE: Luggage will be delivered ONLY to the listed places below. You are welcome to make your own arrangements, if you opt for accommodations not on our list. Luggage will be delivered by NOON on Saturday. On Sunday morning, put your luggage at the same place where is was the day before, no later than 8 AM. Luggage not at the proper place at the proper time will not be picked up by our truck driver.

45-MILE OPTION: If you wish to ride the shorter option, you must sign up for it when you send your registration in. A shuttle van will go from Sag #3 to Bisbee on Saturday, and from Sag #2 to the finish in Sonoita on Sunday.

RIDE ORGANIZER: Suzanne Couvrette, (520) 891-4661 or e-mail at Update-Editor@bikegaba.org. Volunteers welcome! GABA Bucks awarded to all volunteers!

Sonoita-Bisbee Ride Fee

PRE-REGISTERED RIDERS:
GABA/ABC Members:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $55
Non members: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $70
Sat. Dinner At Copper Queen: . . . . . . . . . . . . . $18
(Limited to the first 100 riders ONLY)
Sun. Brkfst at Copper Queen at 6 AM: . . . . . . . $12
(MEALS MUST BE PRE-PAID WITH RIDE FEE)
DAY-OF-EVENT RIDERS:
GABA/ABC members:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $70
Non members:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $85

Why not join GABA-Tucson today?
Get your 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.


Your Ride Fee Includes:

1) Camping w/restrooms at Sonoita Fairgrounds on Friday night before the ride;
2) Safe car parking at Sonoita Fairgrounds from Saturday AM to Sunday PM;
3) SAG Support along the route on both days;
4) 3 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 name tags at the start of ride);
6) Camping in Bisbee on Saturday night at Higgins Park with hot showers; bring TOWEL & SOAP;
7) Course map and riders instructions;
8) GABA Signs at each turn along the course for both days;
9) Door Prizes at both seatings at Copper Queen Saturday dinner - you must be present to win.
10) Porta-Johns at 3rd Sag Stop on Saturday and 1st Sag Stop on Sunday morning;
11) New this year:
Shuttle van for the last 20 miles on Saturday, from Sag #3 to Bisbee, and for the last 25 miles on Sunday from Sag #2 to Sonoita for riders who chose for the shorter 45 miles option.



PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
SONOITA-BISBEE SPRING RIDE
APRIL 14 & 15, 2007
ONE FORM PER RIDER. Photocopies acceptable.
Please fill out all the blanks.

Leader: Suzanne Couvrette, (520) 891-4661
or update-editor@bikegaba.org
Return this form & your check to:
GABA, P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733

EACH RIDER MUST CARRY A PHOTO ID
TO RIDE THRU FORT HUACHUCA.

Option chosen: 69 mi _______
I will need a shuttle 45 mi _______
Motel Name_____________________________________
Camping __________ (BRING TOWEL & SOAP!)
Vegetarian: Yes No (for SAG stops/meals)

PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA/ABC Member . . . . . . . . $55 $_________
Non-member ride fee . . . . . . .$70 $_________
Sat. Dinner at Copper Queen. .$18 $_________
(First 100 Pre-Registered riders ONLY)
Sun. Brkfst at Copper Queen . .$12 $_________
(Starts at 6 AM)

DAY-OF-THE-EVENT FEE:
GABA/ABC member . . . . . . . . . . . .$70 $________
Non-member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $85 $________
Total money enclosed: $_______
I AM Currently a GABA member: YES NO
NAME
(print)_____________________________________

ADDRESS__________________________________

CITY_____________________ ZIP ____________

PHONE ___________________________________

E-Mail_____________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets mandatory.
STAPLE a SIGNED WAIVER to each Form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are much appreciated.


Motel List (updated 1/07)
Camping available at Higgins Park w/hot showers. Luggage delivered ONLY to the list below. (Make your own arrangements if staying at other places.)
Audrey’s 888-437-4263 www.audreysinn.com
Canyon Rose suites 866-296-7673 www.canyonrose.com
Carolina Suites 520-432-2977 garland@rioverderealty.com
Copper Queen: 520-432-2216 www.copperqueen.com
Eldorado Suites 520-432-6679 www.eldoradobisbee.com
Gardens at Mile High 520-432-3866 www.gardensatmilehighranch.com
Gym Club Suites 520-234-5921 www.bisbeelandmark.com
High Desert Inn 520-432-5747 flwrchld1969@msn.com
Inn at Castle Rock: 800-566-4449 www.theinn.org
Mayberry's Place 520-234-1252 www.inntheoaks.com
OK Street Jailhouse 520-432-7434 www.okrealtyinc.com
Old Bisbee B&B 520-432-2080 www.oldbisbeebnb.com
San Ramon Hotel 520-432-1901 hotelsanramon.com
School House Inn 800-537-4333 www.schooljouseinnbb.com
Silverking Hotel 520-432-3723 sparkyriviera@earthlink.net
Weather Station Inn 520-432-1691 www.weatherstationinn.net
Chamber of Commerce 520-432-5421 www.bisbeearizona.com
PLEASE! DO NOT use Hotel La More or others NOT listed here: it is impossible
for our truck to negotiate very narrow streets without a turn-around area.
Top of Page

 

The Tucson Bicycle Classic Is BACK!

April 13-15, 2007
$7200 purse!
The Southwest's Most Popular
Multi-Category USCF Stage Race Returns!

The Classic missed 2006 after failed attempts at getting Kinney and Gates Pass Roads closed for the traditional Gates Pass RR. Too much pressure from local biz's (including the Desert Museum), new event and road closure rules from Pima Co. Transp. Dept., growth in the area & irate residents made that race impossible. Therefore, sadly, the Gates Pass Course is history.
After some review, we decided to use the very challenging 6.0 mile Tumacacori RR course south of Tucson. Formally the AZ Districts course, 1/3 of the loop is a 6%+ climb and the remainder has fast corners, rollers, flats and several steep drops. It's a butt buster! Located 58 miles south of Tucson at approx. 3600' elevation, there is very minimal traffic in the scarcely populated area. The race will be dedicated in memory of Garret Lemire and safety will be our #1 concern.
Stage 1 McCain Loop TT & Stage 3 Anklam/Speedway Circuit Race courses will not change for 2007. The Classic continues to be a uniquely formatted, challenging stage race: that's what has made it one of the most popular stage races in the country.
We are looking for volunteers to help with the race (check in help on Friday; support crews and turn marshals on Sat and Sun) and some host housing as well. Contact Steve at snsbohn@cox.net or 884-5564 if you can help! Volunteers get cool T-shirts.
Stage 1: Friday, 4/13: Old Tucson/McCain Loop Time Trial: 11 AM-6 PM. 3.0 mile course starting from Gilbert Ray Campground on picturesque McCain Loop Rd.
Stage 2: Sat, 4/14: Tumacacori/Garrett Lemire Memorial RR: 6:45 AM-2 PM. 6.0 mile loop with a 2-mi steep climb near Rio Rico, 58 miles from Tucson. Fun course to watch! Elite Men race 72 miles

Stage 3: Sun, 4/15: Anklam/Speedway Circuit Race: 6:45 AM-1 PM. 5.6 mile challenging loop. Elite Men race 56 miles. S/F on Greasewood west of Pima College. Best day for spectators!

Website: www.tucsonbicycleclassic.com, or contact: snsbohn@cox.net
Top of Page
 

Salt River Canyon Bike Ride

May 5 & 6, 2007

Two options:
85 miles per day with all the hills! or
65 miles per day with fewer hills!

REGISTER NOW!!!
A MINIMUM of 35 pre-registered riders is needed by April 15th; otherwise, the ride will have to be cancelled.

Join us for the spectacular scenery and challenging hills of the Salt River Canyon. With over 8,500 feet of climbing on the first day, this ride is for strong, experienced riders.

OPTIONS:
Choose the full 85 scenic hilly miles (90 if you stay at the campground), or a reduced 65-mile easier course. The full course takes you from the mining town of Globe up through desert vistas into pine trees, and the open vistas of the rocky canyon. The shorter version includes a 20-mile shuttle to the first sag stop to eliminate about 3000 feet of climbing out of Globe on the first day. 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 shuttle to Carrizo Canyon, or shorter-version cyclists can tackle the full 85 miles and 5000 feet of climbing. If you want to ride the shorter version with fewer hills, but still a good "scenic" workout, contact Bob Klenke, bobmarie1003@aol.com, (520) 825-2601 to reserve your seat in the van. The number of van seats is limited, so 65 milers must pre-register by April 15!

STARTING PLACE & TIME:
Meet in Globe between 6:30 and 7 AM on Saturday morning at the Gila County Courthouse at 1400 E. Ash Street, just east of Jack in the Box. Load your duffle bag in the baggage vehicle and pick up your map & ride instructions. Start riding as soon as you're ready, no later than 7 AM! Baggage van will depart by 7:15 AM.

SAG SUPPORT:
SAG #1 will be 20 miles into the ride. This portion of the ride includes gradual climbing.
SAG #2 at the top of Salt River Canyon (40 miles into the ride), will provide lunch.
SAG #3 is be located 20 miles further at the Chevron station, Carrizo Junction.

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.

Fee: Pre-registered Riders: GABA/ABC members: $85; Non-members: $100
DAY OF EVENT Riders: GABA/ABC members: $100; Non-members: $115.
Helmets are mandatory.

A minimum of 35 riders is needed to put on this event. If there are not 35 committed & paid cyclists by April 15th, the ride will have to 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 on the route; maps & riders instructions.

RIDE LEADERS: Judy Bolt, bojubolt@aol.com, (520) 512-0442 and Bob Klenke, bobmarie1003@aol.com , (520) 825-2601. Sag stop and sag vehicle volunteers are needed. Earn GABA bucks toward the ride entry fee on another ride, or toward a GABA jersey: put your "Bucks" to work! Contact Judy or Bob if you or your friends and family want to help.

MOTEL LIST:

In Globe: In Show Low:
El Rey: (928) 425-4427; Sleep Inn: (928)532-7323 Pool, Jacuzzi, brkfst Economy Inn: (928) 425-5736; Kiva: (928) 537-4542. Jacuzzi;
El Rancho Motel: (928) 425-5757; Best Western Paint Pony: (928) 537-5773;
Motel 6: (928) 425-5741; Days Inn: (928) 537-4356;
Comfort Inn: (928) 425-7575; Motel 6: (928) 537-7694;
Super 8: (928) 425-7124; Holiday Inn: (928) 537-5115;
Days Inn: (928) 425-5500; Thunderbird : (928) 537-4391.
Travelodge: (928) 425-7008.


PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Salt River Canyon Ride
May 5 & 6, 2007
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all blanks

We need at least 35 riders: Registrations must be received no later than 4/15.

Leaders:
Judy Bolt, 512-0442, overnights@bikegaba.org and
Bob Klenke, 825-2601, bobmarie1003@aol.com
Return this Form & your check to:
GABA P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733

Options chosen: (Please circle) 85mi 65mi
Motel _______________________ Camping _____
Vegetarian: Yes No (SAG stops food/meal)

PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $ 85 $_____
Non-members: $100 $_____
DAY-OF-EVENT:
GABA/ABC members: $100 $_____
Non-members: $115 $_____
Total money enclosed: $_____

I AM Currently a GABA/ABC 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 appreciated!
Top of Page
 

Announcing The Annual GABA Ice Cream Social!


Saturday, April 28th
at Mc Cormick Park,
On Columbus Blvd.,
South of Fort Lowell
& North of Glenn

See article for details on page 4.
Ice Cream will be served
after the 3 rides return to the Park
around 10 AM.
Volunteers needed
to scoop scrumptious ice cream!
Rides of different levels will be offered,
starting from McCormick Park
and returning later
for a well-deserved reward!
Event coordinator:
Pam Cullop, 290-4321 or socialdirector@bikegaba.org.
Top of Page

 

Bike Swap Volunteers Pizza Party!

Thursday, March 29 at 6 PM
at Brooklyn Pizza, 534 N. 4th Avenue

By Greg Yares, Swap Organizer

Interested in helping out? Come on and join us! Everybody is welcome! After getting some pizza for sustenance, let's all walk down the street for hands-on planning!

Pick the time and length of time you are willing to help: there is something for everyone! And earn GABA Bucks at the same time!

We need people to pick up supplies from the GABA storage unit; to cordon off certain areas; to allocate spaces for vendors; to direct buyers to local parking areas; for traffic control; to get a list of all the vendors; to clean up after the event; to return all supplies; or to spend an hour or two at the "GABA table" giving out information on Club membership, week-end rides, and selling GABA jerseys.

CALL GREG AHEAD OF TIME at 323-9020 or e-mail at swapmeet@ bikegaba.org - he needs to know how many pizzas to plan for!
Top of Page
 

Visit the Bike Swap "GABA Table"


Stop by for a visit at the GABA table while at the Spring GABA Bike Swap. Get Tucson area Bicycle Route Maps; buy GABA current club jerseys at regular price, or past events t-shirts at bargain prices! Get pertinent information on bicycling in Tucson, club membership information and applications. And meet friendly people!

Want to be a "GABA Table" volunteer? Call Sandi Rousseau at 577-1187 or contact her at secretary@bikegaba.org. Be a part of the action!
Top of Page

 

"Tour of the Tucson Mountains" Training Rides for C + Riders Continue


By Richard E. “Rich” Corbett
Certified Master Cycling Instructor & Coach

Join Coach Rich Corbett as he leads the second 4-week TTM Training Rides for C+ riders. In case you are new to the area, the TTM is in its 21st year and is the premier spring cycling event in Tucson, with more than 1,000 participants.

The April training rides will start from Udall Park, taking advantage of the great hills on the east side to help achieve better elevation change conditioning. Meet at the east end of the Udall Parking lot, and be prepared to continue your learning and conditioning.

C+ riders are described as “Moderate Touring/Non-Competitive – who can average 14 to 16 mph, and as solid cyclists competent with safety and bike handling skills - should be reasonably experienced riding in a group. There are occasional stops and regroupings as designated by the ride leader.

Whether you want to ride TTM for fun, or for a personal best, Coach Rich can help you achieve your goal. Contact Coach Rich at 623-0017 or kc7ovm@dakotacom.net if you have questions or want more information.
Top of Page
 

How to be More Comfortable with Saddles & Shorts


by Richard E. “Rich” Corbett
Certified Master Cycling Instructor & Coach

Your Saddle - Selection and Comfort: It is very important to have the right saddle, and for it to be adjusted correctly. Saddles come in a wide range of widths, firmnesses, and materials; with and without cutouts in the nose, with and without gel. Experiment and hopefully you will find a saddle that is comfortable.
There are three major sources of saddle discomfort:
1) Sit bone (ischeal tuberosity) soreness – Your bottom hurts! How many times have you felt this way? There are three parts to eliminating this painful condition:
a. Condition your body to get used to the pressure on the sit bones. This is the best approach (lots of saddle time) to eventually eliminate, most all sit bone soreness.
b. Get a saddle that ‘gives’ only a little where your sit bones rest, and wide (or narrow) enough so that your sit bones actually contact the saddle, where the saddle is designed to ‘seat you’.
c. Softer is not better! You need to have good support, not squishy cushioning, to be comfortable on longer rides.

2) Genital area soreness. Not everyone experiences this problem, but for those who do, it is a real problem. You have this problem if you feel a burning sensation or numbness when you ride for longer than half an hour. Make sure your saddle is level or very slightly nose down. If that doesn’t help, get a new saddle!
a. Try a saddle with a cutout. Make sure the edges of the cutout don’t rub or otherwise bother you. You should not notice them on your test ride.
b. Try a saddle with gel in the nose (gel is soft, but not too squishy in this application), and it will relieve pressure.
c. Try a wider (at the back) saddle so more of your weight is borne by the sit bones. (Women have ½ inch wider sit bones [ischeal tuberosities] spacing, so this means they need a wider sitting area for their saddle to be comfortable).

3) Chafing (skin abrasion).You will never forget it if you have ever experienced this! Both saddle and shorts play important roles in preventing chafing. Saddle issues are discussed here, and shorts issues below.
a. If your saddle is too wide through the nose, or where the back end curves into the nose, your thighs will rub as they move back and forth against the saddle edges, resulting in chafing. If this is true, choose a different saddle.
b. Chafing can also result from the saddle being too soft and squishy. Your bottom is able to rub, again, and again, and again . . .
c. Try ‘chamois cream’ to minimize chafing (Plain vaseline is used by many pros)

Saddle Adjustment: First, check your saddle height, by sitting on the saddle wearing your riding shorts and shoes. Resting the heels of your feet on the pedals, bring the pedals to the 12 and 6 o’clock position. Your down heel should just barely have contact with the pedal. If your heel easily contacts the pedal, your saddle is too low. Pedal backwards with someone watching you from behind. Your hips should not rock as you pedal. If they do, your saddle is too high. Place the balls of your feet on the pedals in normal riding position and return the pedals to the 12 and 6 o’clock position. Your down leg should have only a slight bend at the knee (due to your heel being slightly raised).

Next, set the tilt of your saddle so it is level or very slightly nose down.

Finally, check the front-rear adjustment of your saddle, by placing your feet on the pedals in normal riding position and bring the pedals to the 3 and 9 o’clock position. Looking at your forward leg, drop a plumb line from just behind your kneecap to the pedal. The line should intersect the pedal at its axis, or within a half an inch or so of it.


Your Bicycle Shorts - Selection and Comfort: Lets look at what the most important factors are in: 1) selection, and in 2) fit.
Factors in Selection:
Price is a starting point for many people. The more you spend, the better quality the short. Less expensive shorts use lighter materials, and less detail in construction.
Spandex material is really stretchy, and that makes it easy to put on and take off. It comes in different weights – 5 oz is a lighter weight (cooler in hot weather), 6 to 7 oz is medium weight, and 8+ oz is heavy weight (usually provides the best fit and support).

The liner is important in selecting shorts. Avoid liners that are too thickly padded. They will squish around and can result in chafing, especially on longer rides. Liners that have either no seams, or use flat-seam stitching are most comfortable.

The leg grippers should be distinctly wider, have good, semi-sticky gripper material, and they should be snug, but not too tight.

The number of panels is another factor in fit – generally the more panels there are, the better the fit. My best fitting, most comfortable shorts (and knickers), especially for longer rides, are all of 8-panel construction.

How is the waistband constructed? Most are elastic, while some are elastic with a drawstring. Either way is okay for most people, just be sure not to get shorts with only a drawstring, as it is uncomfortable this way! And, there is an alternative – Bib shorts. The shoulder straps are designed to keep your shorts from drooping, and they do! But they cost more, and make pit stops (especially for women) more complicated.

Factors in Fit:
Which bicycle shorts fit best? Shorts that are tight enough to always move with your body (not against it) will result in no friction between your shorts and your skin (good). If you get shorts that fit snugly, but not too tightly, the issue of size will be automatically addressed. Most of us appreciate the firm support from snug fitting shorts. Good shorts that are heavy enough to have ‘body’ will usually be a little loose in the rear when you stand straight. But when you bend forward, into the position you ride in, they are no longer loose, as they are fitted for riding – not standing around!

A fitting feature that many people like in bicycle shorts are legs long enough to cover (and comfortably compress) their thighs. Why? I have heard from more than a few people that mid-thigh length shorts are less comfortable, and tend to bind at the leg gripper seam. I know, as I too have had that experience.

Waist ‘length’, or how high the shorts come up, especially in the back, is another fitting factor. A higher waist can keep you from getting sunburned between your jersey hem and the top of your shorts, or it may just ‘feel‘ better.

The number of panels is another factor in Fit (as well as in selection). 8 panel shorts that fit snugly are a delight to wear, in general.

In summary: Pay attention to what works or doesn’t work for you, and you'll be able, over time, to focus on the factors that are most important for you. This will include proper saddle selection, and adjustment, as well as shorts that work well for you.
Top of Page

 

15th Annual Mt. Lemmon Hill Climb

Friday, May 11, 2007


Check-in will run from 5:45 until 7 AM.

By Steve Wilson, Ride Leader

GABA is pleased to offer the 15th annual edition of the GABA Mt. Lemmon Hill Climb on May 11th this year. The road is still in great shape and offers one of the finest road bike rides anywhere in the world. The 4.5% average grade allows for a challenging ascent without using extremely low gearing, and a descent that requires little or no braking.

We’re expanding the sag support this year to accommodate a wider variety of riders. This year, we will have 3 leapfrogging sags covering 4 sag stops with longer hours. We have recommended start times depending on your average speed to insure that you'll find the Team at each of the stops. Please try to follow these guidelines if you want support all the way up. The sags stops are approximately 6 miles apart.

The check-in location has moved slightly this year to GABA President Tony Everett’s house at 4590 N. Via Noriega. (approx. 1 mile from the base of the mountain). See Yahoo or Google on the web for detailed maps. If you don't have internet/printer access, take Catalina Hwy to Snyder, right on Snyder to Via Molino, right on Via Molino to Via Noriega, then left.

The sag schedule is as follows:
Sag 1: Molino Basin 7 to 9:30 AM.
Sag 2: Bear Canyon 8 to 11 AM.
Sag 3: San Pedro Vista 9 to 12 PM.
Sag 4: Loma Linda 10 to 1 PM.

Recommended start times, depending on your average climbing speed, are:
6 AM for 4 MPH; 6:30 AM for 5 MPH; 7 AM for 7 MPH; and 7:30 AM for 9 MPH. If you average these speeds with these start times and spend 15 minutes at each sag stop, you'll get to each one during the times they're open.

We're keeping pre-registration this year to give us a better idea of how many will be attending. Fees to cover sag cost will be $7 in advance, and $10 on the day of the ride. See inside back cover of Update, or website (www.bikegaba.org) for Registration Form. Please help make our volunteers job easier by registering early.

If you've thought about trying to make it all the way to the top but never have, this is a great time for a big first attempt. The excellent sag support eliminates the need for carrying extra food and fluids, and the camaraderie along the way is a great inspiration. Every year, we've had at least one rider make it to the top for the first time - it's a worthy achievement!

After reaching Ski Valley, check out an optional lunch at the Iron Door restaurant (Ski Valley) or at Summerhaven's Cafes. Count on about $10-15 for lunch depending on your appetite. Pies at the Mt. Lemmon Café in Summerhaven are always good.

The descent this year is as sweet as ever, with an almost continuous 21-mile downhill shot from Bigelow Rd. to the base. Round trip to Ski Valley is 56 miles, with 6,600 feet of elevation gain. Check the weather forecast and be prepared. Rain is unlikely in early May, but you don't want to be surprised at 8,000 feet. We hope to see you on the ride!


PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Mt Lemmon Hill Climb
Friday, May 11, 2007

(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies of this form are acceptable
Please fill out all the blanks.

Ride Leader: Steve Wilson, 870-5282
or wilsons@us.ibm.com

Return this form & your check to: GABA
P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733

Starting time: (please circle)
6 AM 6:30 AM 7 AM 7:30 AM

PRE-REGISTRATION FEE: $ 7 $_____
DAY OF EVENT FEE: $10 $_____
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 appreciated!
Top of Page

 

GABA’S Annual Ice Cream/Bike Ride Social

Saturday, April 28
at McCormick Park on Columbus Blvd.

by Pam Cullop, Social Director

It’s ice-cream eating time once again (but when isn’t it?) And yes, it’s also bike-riding time (but when isn’t it?) However, this is the time of year when we put the two of them together for our annual Ice Cream/Bike Ride Social! `Meeting place for this event will once again be at McCormick Park, located at 2950 N. Columbus Blvd., just north of Glenn and south of Fort Lowell.

Ride Leaders will be on hand to lead "B", "C" and "D" rides. Pick the option that best suits you. We have something for everyone! The more experienced and “faster riders” will be taken into the hills, at a pretty good clip; we have a nice flat and safe route planned for the families or less experienced riders…and for those of you who don’t want to exert yourselves too much, but need to get in a “good workout”; we have a ride designed for you, too!

Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your preferred ride, so that you can sign in, get your bike unloaded and be ready to leave by the designated departure time.

• "B" Riders (16-18 MPH): plan on a 40-45 mile ride. Departure time: 7 AM
• "C" Riders (12-14 MPH): plan on a 30-35 mile ride. Departure time: 8 AM
• "D" Riders ( 8-12 MPH): plan on a 10-15 mile ride. Departure time: 9 AM
.
Once you return to the park from your ride, join us at Ramada #2 where you will be able to choose from a delicious assortment of Schwan’s 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 to do that 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! Everybody is welcome!

If you have any questions about this event; if you would like to volunteer to lead a ride; or if you want to help scoop the ice cream in the cones (think GABA Bucks), I would love to talk with you. Give me (Pam Cullop) a call at 290-4321(H) or 271-6678(M) or send me an e-mail: socialdirector@bikegaba.org. Thanks, and hope to see you there!

“I Scream; You Scream; We All Scream, for Ice Cream” (iscream)!
Top of Page
 

Welcome New & Renewing Members!


New Members:
Orland Crooks; Jim & Eileen Owen; Scott Cerreta; The Morans; Lee Max & Diane Seder; Susan Bond; Anthony Admire; Chuck Wood; Nick Antrobus; David Ness; Carolyn & Eric Erdman; Lina Pace; Doug Bertrand; Robert Diller; Todd Runck; Erinn Ayres; Frank & Yuliya Cerros; Rocio Magana; Joe Heater; Douglas Perry; Vernie Aikins; Jackie Oldermann; John Desilets; Jess Pettitt; Nathan Bahill; Debra Howard; Denise & Kimberly Kinkade; Jeff & Nancy Larson; Roy & June Chamberlin; Bethany Irons; James & Debra Harms; Lars Wigert; Norm Friedman; Jessica Walker; Elliot Anderson; Brian Nicholas; Francoise Harris-Besencon; John Matzek.

Renewing members:
Donna Tew; Sue McDavit; Patrick Payne; Bill Scott; Paul & Joyce Vyriotes; Donald McGraw; Dave Burnett; Fred Finney; Cass Faux; Bob Brown; Sally Glines; Brad Van Norman; Dave Phillips; Phyllis Webster; Nicole Burdette; Dick & Susan Hall; Dick & Louise Strayer; Linda Pejchar; John Mooney; Ann Pardo; Patricia Dow; Ken Nezzy; Janice & Chris Dunn; Anne Herbst & Jonathan Mosher; Jack Skeffington; Monica Zavala-Durazo; Warwick White; Manuel Ramos; Norm Land; Vern Hines; Walter Lambertson; Daniel Lust; Robert Hooper; Matt Rotando;Michelle Dunn.
Top of Page

 

- T T M - 21st Annual Tour of the Tucson Mountains

Options for 70 or 27 miles
Sunday, April 29, 2007

Both Options Start & Finish at New Marana City Hall
off Barnett Rd. just north of Lon Adams Rd.
Starting times: 6:30 AM 70-mile event
8:30 AM 27-mile event

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!

Proceeds go to the Arizona Alumni Association Scholarship Fund and to Kino Kids, a program of Kino Community Hospital, as well as to Pima College and the TMC Children's Fund.

For more information 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
 

Words from Tony - RIDE OF SILENCE

MAY 16TH at 6 PM

by Tony Everett, President

It may be a little unusual, but I would like to use this forum to actively enlist as much support as possible for a ride that is not a GABA ride.

On May 16th, Tucson will join 138 other cities in the U.S, Canada, Scotland, Australia, and Singapore for a “Ride of Silence” to honor and remember fellow cyclists who have been killed on our roadways.

The "Ride of Silence" began in 2003 to honor a cyclist killed in Dallas, and has grown in size, number, and importance since then. While we remember our fellow cyclists, it is equally important to understand that another purpose of this ride is to increase awareness in the community at large of our presence and our right to use the roadways. This ride is not intended to antagonize drivers of motor vehicles, but hopefully to increase their awareness of the presence of cyclists on our roads, not occasionally, but daily. The use of bicycles as a primary mode of transportation is increasing rapidly, and it is more important than ever to help make our roads as safe as possible.

There are many ways to make ourselves more visible, and to ride safely. Tucson is a “Bicycle Friendly Community” but it can always be safer. The "Ride of Silence" will be approximately 12 miles, and will be at a pace not intended to exceed 12 MPH The ride will begin and end at McCormick Park, on Columbus, just north of Glenn.

Please join me for this important event in the Tucson Cycling community. This ride will not only honor the friends & family we have lost, but just maybe, will generate a greater awareness of our presence on the roadways, and possibly save a life. What greater reward could there be?

Be Careful, Ride Safe, and Enjoy
Top of Page
 

Luna Lake Bike Tour

May 26, 27, 28, 2007


By Pam Cullop, Ride Organizer

Spend Memorial Day Weekend cycling a moderately difficult ride on some of the least traveled roads in the cool mountains of Eastern Arizona and Western New Mexico!

Day 1: 48 Miles: Springerville, AZ to Quemado, NM
Only Pre Registered Riders will begin “Check In” at 8 AM (not earlier). Those riders who wait to sign up on the Day of the Event, will not start the “Check In” process until after the pre-registered group is nearly completed; a good reason to sign up early!

Come to the Safeway parking lot (crossroads of Airport Rd and Mountain Ave), next to the Chinese restaurant. Park your vehicle for the weekend in the lot closest to our set up location. A lunch stop (SAG 2) is located just before a cyclist’s dream: an 8-mile fast descent into Quemado! Camping and showers are located at Quemado High School (follow the GABA signs to the back of the school lot). An optional group dinner on Saturday evening and Sunday’s optional group breakfast will be served by the members of the girls’ volleyball team in the new cafeteria located in the back of the school. Both meals must be prepaid, and included in your ride fee total.

(The Volleyball Team fundraises 80% of the monies it needs to assist needy members attend VB Camp, pay for tournament achievement awards, and pay for tournament rooms, travel and food. Ordering your meals at the school is a great way to help support these girls in achieving their goal.)

Day 2: 55 Miles: Quemado, NM to Reserve, NM
Pedal on lightly traveled roads through the Gallo Mountains. The morning stop (SAG 1) is at the top of the climb. Then be prepared for a thrilling descent into Apache Corners for lunch (SAG 2)! Continue on to Reserve, our destination for the day.

THE OPTIONAL SIDE TRIP (32 ROUND-TRIP MILES) TO THE CONTINENTAL DIVIDE IS NOT OFFICIALLY PART OF THE ROUTE. YOU ARE REQUIRED TO ENTER YOUR NAME ON THE "SIGN-UP" SHEET PROVIDED AT SAG #2, AND YOU MUST DEPART SAG #2 FOR THIS SIDE TRIP NO LATER THAN NOON.

Campers will stay at the Village Park, which is across from the high school, on San Francisco St. Two portable toilets will be in place between the firehouse and the park, and showers will be at the Rode Inn. Optional group dinner on Saturday evening, and Sunday morning will be served in the Community Center, across the street from the high school, just down the road a bit from the park. Both meals must be prepaid, and included in your ride fee total.

Day 3: 63 Miles: Reserve, NM to Springerville, AZ
Most challenging day! After the day’s major climb, relax and enjoy the view from Luna Summit at SAG 1! With a bit more climbing to go after you get back ‘on the saddle’ – you are on your way to the AZ/NM border via spectacular vistas. Lunch (SAG 2) is located off of the main highway at the Luna Lake picnic grounds.

For those who need to refuel (light food) or re-hydrate (water & Gatorade), there will be a 3rd SAG stop at the base of the last climb of the day located near the boat ramp to the Luna Lake dam. Ride back to your car, and drive over to the Rode Inn if you’d like to clean up before driving back home that afternoon; two “shower rooms” have been reserved at the Rode Inn in Springerville for this purpose.

Fee Includes:
Luggage transport for three days; 2 SAG stops w/food & water on each day; a 3rd SAG stop added on Day 3; Camping & Showers at Quemado High School on Saturday; Showers at Rode Inn Motel, with Camping at the Village Park in Reserve on Sunday; Sweep vehicle help throughout the course for all three days; and end-of-the-ride showers on Monday at the Rode Inn in Springerville.

Register as soon as possible to assist us in preparing a well-supported ride. We must give our meal hosts a “head count” 2-weeks in advance of the ride for meal preparations. If you wait too late to register, you may not be able to purchase a meal!

Additionally, please make motel and camping reservations right away in Springerville, as they will be celebrating John Wayne’s 100 “birth” day! I am told that they anticipate a huge crowds, and filled-to-capacity motel situations! You may need to check in local towns or forest campgrounds this year for your pre-ride overnight stay.

Ride Leader: For more information, contact Pam Cullop, (520) 290-4321 (H), (520) 271-6678 (M), or socialdirector@bikegaba.org

PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $85 Non-Members: $100

DAY OF EVENT:
GABA/ABC Members: $100 Non-Members: $115

OPTIONAL MEALS MUST BE PREPAID WITH RIDE FEE:
Dinner in Quemado: $ 9.50 Breakfast in Quemado: $ 7.50
Dinner in Reserve: $12.00 Breakfast in Reserve: $ 10.00
Save $1 - when you pay for both meals in Reserve: $21.

MOTEL LIST:
Springerville: Rode Inn: 877-220-6553
Super 8: 800-800-8000

Quemado: Allison: 505-773-4550
Largo: 505-773-4686
Allegre 505-773-4520

Reserve: Rode Inn: 505-533-6661
Village Motel: 505-533-6600
Hidden Springs Inn 505-533-6146 or www.thehiddenspringsinn.com
(The Hidden Springs Inn will provide shuttle transportation for you and your luggage, from Reserve after the ride, and back again for dinner that evening, if desired.)
 


LUNA LAKE TOUR
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
May 26, 27 & 28, 2007
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all the blanks.

Ride Leader: Pam Cullop, (520) 290-4321
or socialdirector@bikegaba.org

Return this form & your check to: GABA
P.O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733

Option chosen: (Please circle):
Motel _________ Camping _______ (Bring towel & soap)

Vegetarian: Yes No (for SAG stops/meals)

Money enclosed:
GABA/ABC Members: $ 85.00 $______
Non-Members: $100.00 $______
Dinner, Quemado: $ 9.50 $______
Breakfast, Quemado $ 7.50 $______
Dinner, Reserve: $ 12.00 $______
Breakfast, Reserve: $ 10.00 $______
(For both meals in Reserve: $21)
Day-of-Event GABA/ABC: $100.00 $______
Day-of-Event Non-Members: $115.00 $______

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 appreciated!
Top of Page

 

27th Annual Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure


Plan Your Vacation Now!

Sept. 28 through Oct. 7, 2007
Registration Fee: $645
Limited to 200 cyclists!

Ride Director: Dorothy Barth
Information Message Line: (520) 490-835
Cross-state@bikegaba.org
Www.bikegaba.org


Pre-Tour check-in:
Friday, Sept. 28 from 7 to 9 PM at the Best Western airport in Phoenix

Sat. Sept. 29:
Optional bus trip and bike transportation ($) from the Phoenix Best Western Airport Inn to the AVI Casino, Laughlin, Nevada. We will be on our way by 9 AM. Relax and enjoy a sack lunch and the scenery. In Laughlin, relax at the water's edge at the AVI Resort. Take your bike out for a short spin so you're ready to ride in the morning. Enjoy our tour kick off banquet later that evening.

Ride Day 1: Sunday, Sept. 30. 50 miles. Laughlin, NV to Kingman, AZ.
Approx. 5,100' of climbing. Head into the Black Mountains, and cruise into the old mining town of Oatman. Take care to not run into any burros! Exchange one saddle for another and take a horseback ride.

Ride Day 2: Monday, Oct. 1. 88 miles. Kingman to Seligman.
Approx. 3,900' of climbing. Continue pedaling on the longest currently used stretch of Route 66. Stop and take a tour of the Grand Canyon Caverns, the largest dry caverns in the United States.

Ride Day 3: Tuesday, Oct. 2. 99 miles. Seligman to Grand Canyon.
Approx. 5,700' of climbing. Enjoy the changing scenery as you pedal to the high desert forest of the South Rim. About 25 miles will be on the wide shoulder of I-40, the only paved road connecting these places, during light midweek traffic.

Rest Day: Wednesday, Oct. 3.
Day off at the Grand Canyon National Park. Explore the canyon on foot or by bike. Ride out the East Rim Drive, or visit the spectacular overlooks on the West rim Drive. You can also trade in cycling shoes for hiking boots and spend a day below the rim of the canyon.

Ride Day 4: Thursday, Oct. 4. 80 miles. Grand Canyon to Flagstaff.
Approx. 3,300' of climbing. Enjoy the cooler temperatures at higher elevation and the scent of the pine forests as you pedal along the shoulders of the San Francisco Peaks.

Ride Day 5: Friday, Oct. 5. 94 miles. Flagstaff to Payson.
Approx. 5,600' of climbing. Ride by Lake Mary in the world's ponderosa pine forest. Crest over the Mogollon Rim and enjoy steep descents through the small towns of Strawberry (great pies) and Pine.

Ride Day 6: Saturday, Oct. 6. 95 miles. Payson to San Carlos.
Approx. 8,000' of climbing. Savor a thrilling 9 mile descent into saguaro country, past Roosevelt Lake, View historic Roosevelt Dam, and travel over the world's longest steel arch and suspension bridge. Test your legs on the steep climb to follow, cycling through the old mining town of Globe, and on to ?San Carlos country.

Sunday, Oct. 7:
Optional bus trip ($) from the apache Gold Resort to the Best Western airport Inn in Phoenix. Motor coaches will begin loading at 8:30 AM.


General Information:

Registration Fee Includes: Five group dinners; Daily baggage transport to host lodging & camping locations; Outdoor camping with showers; SAG support; Quality food stops along daily route; End-of-day refreshments; Entrance Pass to the Grand Canyon National Park; Tour route guides with maps; Commemorative ride wear and gifts, including a water bottle; Mechanic support for minor repairs (parts extra $).

Route: The 505-mile route begins at the AVI Casino in Laughlin, Nevada, and ends at the Apache Gold Casino in San Carlos, Arizona. It features a full day off at the Grand Canyon, as well as 6 days of riding, for an average of 84 miles per day. Total elevation gain over the course of the tour exceeds 31,000 feet.

Temperatures: Be prepared for very cool temperatures at higher elevations; frost is possible at night or early mornings. It can and does rain and snow in Arizona. At lower elevations, temperatures can reach 100 degrees at times.

Lodging: A large percentage of our tour participants choose the motel option for all or part of the week. A list of host lodging locations will be furnished upon receiving a completed, paid registration form. Early reservations are necessary to ensure receiving our group rate price, and room availability.

Camping: The camping site is usually at the daily host motels. Showers are provided. There is no indoor camping. There is NO camping in Phoenix or Laughlin.

Luggage: Maximum of 2 duffel bags per person, with a maximum weight of 40 lbs. each, are transported to daily host locations only.

Meals: The tour includes 5 group dinners, and after-ride snacks. Please note: We do make both meat and vegetarian dinners and snacks available. However, if you have special dietary needs, be prepared to supplement your meals accordingly.

SAG Stops: At designated locations along the daily route, quality food stops offer a variety of fresh fruits, juices, great snacks, luncheon meats and other sandwich fixings mid-day, sodas, and water.

Mechanic Support: A mechanic will accompany our Tour for minor repairs and adjustments. Bike parts will be available at competitive prices. Your bike should be in excellent working order before leaving home, including low gears for the BIG climbs we have. Recommendation: A week-long tour is not the time to try out untested or new bicycle parts or components.

Training: To fully enjoy Arizona’s spectacular scenery, training is recommended. Throughout the riding season, cyclists should build up to a 50-80 mile ride weekly. By October, riders should have completed at least one century ride; more than one is advisable. This route contains several challenging climbs and elevation gains.

Massages ($): There will be a massage team at the host hotel each night. Scheduling can be done each day, or in advance. Drop-ins are welcome as time is available.

Bicycle Shipping: Bicycles may be shipped to Landis Cyclery Bicycle Shop for assembly (includes a safety check) and delivery to the Best Western Airport Inn in Phoenix, for a fee. Contact Tim or Brian at (602) 264-5681 for more information. They will also pick up and pack your bicycle and ship it back to you. If you have a relatively early departure from Phoenix on your return, this option will hasten that process. If you prefer, you may ship your bike directly to the Best Western Airport Inn, where it will be stored in a locked storage room for you to assemble upon arrival.

Bicycles: All bicycles must be assembled before leaving the hotel in Phoenix. Please understand that due to limited storage space on the tour, no bike boxes or bags can be carried on our luggage truck. A locked storage room will be made available for those items at the BW Airport Inn in Phoenix, for the duration of the Tour.

Lodging at the Grand Canyon National Park: We have reserved a group block of rooms for two nights at Yavapai Lodge West. These must be prepaid with your registration. If you reserve a room and want to share it, please enter a posting on the website bulletin board. These rooms will sell out fast so please book early.

Return Flight Info: When you are making your return flight plans, please take into consideration that, if you are taking your bike back with you, or having it shipped from the hotel, rather than using Landis Cyclery, you will need to allow enough time for the disassembly and packaging of the bike, and shuttle time to the airport. For these reasons, it is generally wise to not plan on flying out before 3 PM on Sunday, Oct. 7th.

Optional Bus Trip and Bike Transport from Phoenix to the AVI Casino on Saturday, Sept. 29th: Bus and bike transportation form Phoenix (Best Western Airport Inn) to the start of the tour in Laughlin, Nevada is available for $55 per person. Assembled bikes will begin loading at approximately 8 AM (boxes will remain in a locked room at the BW Airport Inn.) Motor coaches will begin loading at approximately 9 AM. A complimentary sack lunch will be provided to all passengers.

Optional Bus Trip and Bike Transport from San Carlos to Phoenix on Sunday, Oct. 7th: Bus and bike transportation will be available at the cost of $45 per person for the trip from the Apache Gold Resort, San Carlos to Phoenix. Bikes will begin loading at approximately 7:30 AM, and motor coaches will begin loading at approximately 8:30 AM, arriving at the Best Western Phoenix Airport Inn around 10:30 AM.

Confirmation Letter: This will be e-mailed to you (or mailed as required) shortly after receiving your check with a completed and signed registration form and signed waiver. The letter will contain a designated motel and camping location list, and a list of suggested equipment and clothing items for the Tour.
Top of Page
 

GABA Donates New Bike Rack at Saguaro National Park East


By Matt Zoll

Due to popular demand, GABA recently paid for a new bike rack that was installed at the Saguaro National Park East bicycle rest area.

On a recent outing, I saw 14 bikes parked at the Saguaro National Park East, using both the new rack and the existing rack.

Many thanks to Bob O'Donnel of Function First bicycle racks, a local manufacturer of high-quality racks, for providing the rack and delivering it to Saguaro National Park East at a very reasonable cost (Function First products may be seen at www.bikerack.com).

The Saguaro National Park staff installed the rack nearly as soon as it arrived. A great partnership between GABA, Saguaro National Park, and Function First was achieved to provide a nice facility for the bicycling community.
Top of Page

 

10th Annual Ride for the Children

Sunday, April 22, 2007

This ride benefits the Real Gift Foundation for Homeless Children. There will be 3 options: 10 & 25 miles and a metric century. The course of the longer option goes through Paradise Valley and the majestic hills of North Scottsdale.

The ride will start at Horizon High School, 56th St. & Greenway in Scottsdale. Check-in is at 7 AM. Ride begins at 8 AM.

For more information and for registration, visit www.rideforthechildren.com or contact the Event Coordinator: Leslie Todd at 480-315-0600, or at leslie@therogersgroupinc.com.


Top of Page
 

GABA Purposes & Objectives


Promote interest & involvement in all aspects of cycling.

Regularly publish a comprehensive newsletter of cycling info, legislation affecting cyclists, & other cycling events.

Schedule tours and group riding opportunities for the development of individual cycling skills and promotion of safe riding habits.

Provide education at all levels of bicycling skills, such as road safety, bicycle maintenance & emergency repairs; and to encourage bicycle use as an energy-efficient, healthful means of personal transportation.
 

Top of Page
 

Update Deadlines & Classified Ads


The UPDATE deadline is the 12th of the month. All submissions must be typed.

Submit articles to: update-editor@bikegaba.org
or mail to: Suzanne Couvrette, UPDATE Editor
2818 N. Campbell, # 146 Tucson, AZ 85719.

Classified Ad Space: FREE for GABA members,
ONLY for GABA members.

Sponsor Ads on back cover: contact Ram Salcedo, Bike Shops Coordinator, 733-0230 or salcedo@flash.net

The Update is published monthly by GABA-Tucson as a ser-vice to its members. Submissions may be edited to meet space requirements. GABA does not make representations on the facts received from members or other cycling entities.

Top of Page
 

Potholes, Graffiti, Trimming & Road Hazards

City of Tucson, Dept. of Transp. P. O. Box 27210, Tucson AZ 85775, 791-4372 or www.transview.org/tell_frame.html.
Help City/County identify low-cost improvements:
1. Maintenance: fill potholes & cracks, sweeping, trimming;
2. Traffic Control: signis, lane striping, crossing signal repair;
3. Reconstruction: paving, utilities, curbs, ramps, sidewalks.

Top of Page

 

Club-Owned Bike Travel Cases Available

They are available only for GABA members on a 1st come basis with a $150 deposit per case, refunded when case(s) is returned in usable condition within 3 days of borrower's return to town. You pick up & return case to designated location. For info, contact Peggy Jacobsen, 694-4742, treasurer@bikegaba.org.
Top of Page

 

You Didn't Receive Your UPDATE in the Mail?


Don't wait! Contact Membership Director Steve Graeber, as soon as possible! The best way is to E-MAIL Steve at: membership@bikegaba.org
or call him (second best) (520) 762-1363.

IMPORTANT: Make sure the word "GABA" appears in the subject line of your message!
Top of Page
 

Check the following sites for more rides!

GABA Chapters Website Addresses
Tucson: www.bikegaba.org
Flagstaff: www.flagstaffbiking.org
Phoenix: www.sportsfun.com/gaba
Prescott: www.prescottcycling.org
Other Cycling Clubs/Ride Lists:
Alicia's Ride Calendar …………www.aliciarides.com
AZ Bicycle Club - (ABC) Phx….www.azbikeclub.com Bullshifters…………………………www.bullshifters.org
Cactus Cycling Club ...............www.cactuscycling.com
Doo Dah Road Club ............www.doodahroadclub.org
Green Valley Hiking Club …….www.gvrhc.org
PBAA ............................www.perimeterbicycling.com
Pima Trails Association ........www.pimatrails.org
Top of Page

 

RAIN OR SNOW??

IF pre-registered for a RAINED OUT event, you'll get a Credit for any other ride for the amount you originally paid. Use Credits before the end of the year, WITH a NEW Registration Form for any subsequent rides.
Top of Page
 

Ride of Silence Events Scheduled

for Tucson & Green Valley on Wednesday, May 16th

by Brian Beck

Local cyclists are invited to join with others throughout the world on a Ride of Silence on Wednesday, May 16. Silent processions will be held in Tucson and Green Valley that day to honor those who have been injured or killed while cycling on public roadways, and to raise awareness about sharing the road legally and safely.

The Ride of Silence originated in Dallas in 2003. It is now held in hundreds of communities throughout the world on the 3rd Wednesday in May. The event is free and there is no registration. It is open to anyone with a bicycle, and a helmet is required.

Participants are asked to obey traffic laws and ride together in silence at no more than 12 mph with respect and gratitude for their rights to the road. Riders are encouraged to wear a black armband to honor cyclists who have died while riding, or a red armband to honor those who have been injured. The armbands are suggested but not necessary.

The local rides have been endorsed by GABA-Tucson, the Perimeter Bicycling Association of America, the League of American Bicyclists, the Brad P. Gorman Memorial Bikeway Fund, and the Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee.

Tucson’s Ride of Silence will begin at 6 PM at McCormick Park on North Columbus Blvd. Tucson Mayor Bob Walkup is scheduled to be on hand for the start. Riders will proceed south to Glenn, east to Craycroft, south to 29th Street, west to Columbus and north back to the park. The 12-mile ride will take about an hour. For more information about the Tucson ride, contact Wayne Cullop at pwcullop@comcast.net, Jean Gorman at prairiejean@aol.com, or Roy Schoonover at RSchoo2823@aol.com.

The 7-mile Green Valley ride will start at 6 PM at the Green Valley Recreation East Center. Riders will head west on Esperanza, north on La Canada, east on Duval Mine Road and south on Abrego back to the East Center. It will be led by local bicyclists Jim Jordan and Bill Adamson with assistance from the Pima County Sheriff Department. For information about the Green Valley ride, contact Bill Adamson at billadamson@cox.net.
Top of Page
 

Earn "GABA Bucks"When You Volunteer to Help on a Ride!


What are "GABA Bucks"?
"GABA Bucks" are credits issued by the Club in increments of $5. Use them for ride fees, member-ship fees, jerseys, etc.; they have no expiration date; can be transferred to someone else or donated back to GABA to help with worthy causes supported by GABA.

How can I earn GABA Bucks?
1. Lead a Day Ride: Worth $5 in GABA Bucks. Contact Day Rides Coordinator Jeanie Darnall, 904-0207 or dayrides@bikegaba.org.

2. Lead or Help on Overnighters or Centuries: Contact Volunteers Coordinator Dick Schaffer, 326-4807 or volunteer@bikegaba.org.
"GABA Bucks" are earned as follows:
A. SAG stop, baggage truck, sweep vehicle: $15 for one-day events; $30 for 2-day, $35 for 3-day.
B. Help at registration or with any other tasks designated by the ride leader: $5.
C. Lead a century ride: $45.
D. Lead a two-day overnight ride: $55.
E. Lead a three-day overnight ride: $65.

3. Write an article for the UPDATE. Worth $5 in "GABA Bucks". Contact UPDATE Editor, Suzanne Couvrette, update-editor@bikegaba.org, 891-4661.

4. Organize Social Events (picnic/ice cream social) Worth $25 "GABA Bucks". Contact Social Director Pam Cullop at socialdirector@ bikegaba.org or 290-4321.
Top of Page