15th Annual Mt. Lemmon Hill Climb
Ride of Silence Events Scheduled
El Bike Swap de Tucson, Again a Great Success!
9th Annual Sedona Century Bike Tour
Welcome, Melinda Correll, New Day Rides Coordinator!
GABA-Tucson Board of Directors
GABA VOLUNTEERS HELP BAC ADVOCACIES
Where to Position Your Bike When Making a Turn
C+ Training Rides for the TTM, a Great Success This Year!
Mt Hopkins Mountain Bike Hill Climb
Change for Rillito River Path: All Users Keep to the Right
BAC (BICYCLE ADVISORY COMMITTEE) NEWS
New Bike and Pedestrian Coordinator for the City of Tucson
Please join us for the National Ride of Silence
Hill Climbing - What can make you better at it
(See related articles in this issue for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders E-Mail
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
5/12 (Sat) Sedona Century Absolutes Bikes
www.absolutebikes.com
5/26-28 Luna Lake Bike Tour GABA-Tucson Pam Cullop
socialdirector@bikegaba.org
6/3 (Sun) Mt Hopkins Hill Climb GABA-Tucson Tom Ward
tward@dakotacom.net
7/4 (Wed) Tour for Tucson's Children City Parks & Rec
lisa.sommer@tucsonaz.gov
7/14 & 15 White Mountain Tour PMBC (GABA Phx) Jay Stewart
www.sportsfun.com
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Monday, June 4 at 7 PM
Please joins 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!
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Monday, May 7 at 7 PM
Join us to welcome
Dr. Barbara Becker,
of the U of A Planning Department,
who will talk about the future of GABA.
Public welcome!
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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 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.
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
Aug. 25 & 26: GRAND CANYON TOUR. Organized by ABC Bike Club. www.azbikeclub.com.
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. 10 (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
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Tucson Az Mtn Standard Time
MAY
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
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
JUNE
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 5:18 7:25
7: 5:17 7:28
14: 5:17 7:31
21: 5:18 7:33
28: 5:20 7:34
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May 5 & 6, 2007
Two options:
85 miles per day with all the hills!
or
65 miles per day with fewer hills!
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.
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.
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Friday, May 11, 2007
Check-in will run from 5:45 AM 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 stops 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!
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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.
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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.
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Trek 6500 Mountain Bike, Size 18". Like new. Asking $550. Includes computer &
seat bag. Call Carol, 623-6040 (Tuc), or rad515@aol.com.
2001 Bianchi XL, Boron frame, 57 cm. Meticulously maintained, with Bianchi full
carbon fork, Record/ Chorus mix, Record carbon 9 speed Ergo Shifters and
derailleurs. Bianchi celeste & yellow. $1,499. Call Tom 531-8119 (Tuc) or
tcebenhack@comcast.net.
FULL TOURING BIKE Co-Motion Nor'Wester Tour, ready to roll! 56cm, 27 speed
Ultegra, Extras include Tubus rear rack with new Arkel panniers, PlanetBike
fenders, computer, kickstand, bottle cages. Beautiful & as good as new! Original
$3500. Yours for $1650. Rudy, zonatandem@yahoo.com, or 520-742-2518 Tuc
2006 BURLEY TANDEM: New. Size 21x18, 27 speed, STI, adjustable stoker stem.
Sparkling blue paint! $1,700. Call Rudy at 520-742-2518 (Tuc) or
zonatandem@yahoo.com.
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by Greg Yares, Event Organizer
Another GABA bike swap under our belt! Great thanks to all of our volunteers,
Bill Borland Sandi & Rich Rousseau, Roy Schoonover, Ram & Chris Salcedo, Steve
Shoemaker, Judy Bolt and Tony Everett. and the FAMA -Fourth Avenue Merchants
Assoc., Lemonade guy, Radio Station???, Kinne the DJ who played good music at
Winsett park, and all of the bike nuts who keep this the best non-ride bike
event in the civilized world, or at least in central Tucson twice a year.
Please give us your feedback on the
First time ever GABA Bike Swap to be held on a Sunday!!!
I think the attendance was a bit light, but that also allowed for a calmer day
without the "vendor space frenzy" that we usually have. It seems that the
calendar of outdoor events is getting more and more like an overbooked game of
drunken twister.
This time we moved our swap to Sunday in deference to the PBAA Tour de Phoenix,
which was held on Sat. the 31st. Along with the folks who spend their Sundays in
prayer or reading the paper, The San Diego bike swap was on the same day as ours
this time, so I'm sure that we lost some of our California regulars. It seems
there is always at least one race and probably three going somewhere nearby.
The Clean Air Fair was held at Reid park on the same day as well. It started at
noon, so unlikely to be too much conflict there. With all that other stuff in
the mix, I think it was a good swap. Mark your calendar: we'll hold our next one
on Saturday, November 10.
I think it'll be back to "vendor space frenzy" and I hope that more of you will
volunteer to help us guide our gentle guests to the light once again. See you
then!!! And don't forget the feedback. Thanks, Greg 323-9020
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Saturday, May 12, 2007
Three Routes: 33 miles, 47 miles or metric century+ through beautiful red rocks,
river crossings, desert views and historic Arizona sites. New this year! Ride
will stage from the Old Town Mission in Historic Old Town Cottonwood.
Check in:
6:30 AM: on Saturday, May 12 - Continental breakfast.
7 AM: Registration.
8 AM: The ride starts from the Old Town Mission in Historic Old Town Cottonwood.
Proceeds benefit the programs of the Old Town Mission which has assisted people
in developing their fullest potential for the last 16 years. To learn more about
the Old Town Mission, visit: http://www.odltownmission.org.
Donations levels:
$40: All participants will receive a commemorative T-shirt. (minimum donation)
$100 and up: This donation level will receive a commemorative T-shirt and a gift
certificate.
For more information on this ride, and to register, visit the website at:
www.absolutebikes.net.
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Melinda comes to us with some experience with her "old" cycling Club in Northern
California.
She is an experienced rider who enjoys riding her bike a lot! She will be in
charge of organizing the "Biketivities", the GABA name for all the day rides
that we feature each month. She will greatly appreciate any help you can give
her.
You can reach her at: dayrides@bikegaba.org or call her at 731-3156; She will be
glad to feature your day ride in our newsletter.
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For the last year, Jeanie has been our Day Rides Coordinator, and what a great
job she did!
Because of other commitments, Jeanie has had to give up her job on the Board.
We wish Jeanie the best in all her other endeavors and hope that she will still
ride her bike with all of us!
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July 14-15, 2007
Moved to July 21 & 22!!
Sponsored by Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club
AN APPROVED HELMET IS REQUIRED FOR THIS RIDE
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 for many.
Temperatures ranging from the low 60's to the mid 80's, great support for the
riders and Saturday night's dinner social make this ride one you will want to do
again and again!!
The White Mountain Tour is a two-day fully supported tour and includes sag
support, emergency mechanical support, plenty of good snacks and luggage
delivery to your hotel or campsite.
DINNER: Saturday night's dinner and a raffle ticket are also included in the
entry fee.
TOUR COST:
$50 for GABA/ABC club members. $55 for non-members.
A $10. late fee applies after June 30th.
MAIL REGISTRATION FORM AND FEES TO:
PHOENIX METRO BICYCLE CLUB, P. O. BOX 26788, TEMPE, AZ 85285-6788.
MAKE CHECKS PAYABLE TO: Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club
SATURDAY NIGHT DINNER:
Dinner is included in your entry fee. It 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 and ice cream. Umm, Ummm, better than home! 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. Dinner will be at the traditional location at the Round Valley High
School in Springerville.
FREE CAMPING ON SATURDAY NIGHT:
At the Round Valley Middle School in Eagar, which includes showers & bathroom
For those wanting 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 PICK UP:
Starting at 8 AM on Sunday for the return trip.
START & FINISH:
This year we will again start & finish at Hon-Dah, located at the intersection
of AZ Highways 73 & 260, south of Pinetop.
REGISTRATION:
on Saturday morning, from 7 AM to 8:30 AM. No mass start.
DAY ONE: Ride North on Highway 260 through Pinetop/Lakeside to Show Low. In Show
Low turn East onto Highway 60 for about 34 scenic miles to the sag stop at
Midway Station convenience store in Vernon. (Stop in and say Hi to Francis & the
gang, maybe buy a cold soda or ice cream).
If you are a casual rider, you might wish to get an early start to avoid missing
the SAG stop, which will close at 11:30 AM. From there, after one major climb,
it's all down to Springerville/Eagar for a total of 63 miles on Day One.
!!!New This Year!!! For those hardy enough, we are planning a 40-mile Optional
Loop. Yes, that's right, you will have the option of either doing a Full
Century, or the traditional Metric Century on Day One.
DAY TWO: start 8 AM. The return SAG stop will be set up at 8:30 AM. near the
Sunrise Ski Resort. From there, it's mostly down hill back to the start for the
days total of about 38 miles for the day.
This truly is a great ride, one you shouldn't miss!
FRIDAY NIGHT LODGING
in Pinetop-Lakeside
* Bear's Paw Motel - 928-368-5231 * Best Western - 928-367-6667
* Blue Ridge Motel - 928-367-0758 * Bonanza Motel - 928-367-4440
* Comfort Inn - 928-368-6600 * Cozy Pines Cabins- 928-367-4558
* Double B Lodge - 928-367-2747 * Forest House - 928-368-6628
* Hilltop House Motel - 928-367-4451 * Mountain Hacienda-928-367-4146
* Murphy's Cabins - 928-367-5555 * Pinetop Lodge - 928-367-3510
* Super 8 - 928-367-3161 * Timber Lodge 928-367-4463
* Woodland Inn & Suites- 928-367-3636
in Show Low (about 10 miles from start)
* Apache Pines Motel - 928-532-4328 * Best Western - 928-537-5773
* Day's Inn - 928-537-4356 * Downtown 9 Motel-928-537-4334
* Holiday Inn - 928-537-5115 * KC Travel Lodge - 928-537-4433
* Kiva Motel - 928-537-4542 * Motel 6 - 928-537-7694
* Snowy River Motel - 928-537-2926
SATURDAY NIGHT LODGING:
in Springerville / Eager: Free camping in the town of Eager, includes restroom &
shower facilities at Round Valley Middle School. Sleep in the gym, or pitch your
tent on the nicest lawn in town.
* Reeds Lodge - 928-333-4323 (www.k5reeds.com/)
* El Jo Motor Inn - 928-333-4314 * Super 8 Motel - 928-333-2655
* Corral Motel - 928-333-2264 * Paisley Corner B&B - 928-333-4665
* Rode Inn - 928-333-4365 * Whiting Bros Motor Inn - 928-333-5870
* Best Western - 928-333-2540 * 26 Bed & Breakfast - 928-333-2102
* Spanish Trails B&B - 928-333-4034
* White Mountain Escape B&B -928-333-2000 (www.whitemountainescape.com)
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: For more information, contact Jay Stewart, Ride
Organizer, afternoons and evenings, at 480-250-1613.
P. O. Box 43273 Tucson, AZ 85733
President: Tony Everett 975-7801
PRESIDENT@BIKEGABA.ORG
Vice President: OPEN
Treasurer: Peggy Jacobsen 791-3049
TREASURER@BIKEGABA.ORG
Secretary: Sandi Rousseau 577-1187
SECRETARY@BIKEGABA.ORG
Membership: Steve Graeber 762-1363
MEMBERSHIP@BIKEGABA.ORG
Update Editor: Suzanne Couvrette 891-4661
UPDATE-EDITOR@BIKEGABA.ORG
Education: Matt Zoll 321-4471
EDUCATION@BIKEGABA.ORG
Day Rides Coord.: Melinda Correll 731-3156
DAYRIDES@BIKEGABA.ORG
Overnight Rides: Judy Bolt 512-0442
OVERNIGHTS@BIKEGABA.ORG
Centuries: Jill Hewins 275-4759
CENTURIES@BIKEGABA.ORG
Volunteers Coord: Dick Schaffer 326-4807
VOLUNTEER@BIKEGABA.ORG
Corrsp/Registr: DonnaLewandowski 740-6941
MAIL@BIKEGABA.ORG
Bike Shops Coord.: Ram Salcedo 733-0230
BIKESHOPS@BIKEGABA.ORG
Publicity: OPEN
Merchandise: Sandi Rousseau 577-1187
MERCHANDISE@BIKEGABA.ORG
Webmaster: Dave Swanson 664-0429
WEBMASTER@BIKEGABA.ORG
Social Director: Pam Cullop 290-4321
SOCIALDIRECTOR@BIKEGABA.ORG
Bike Swap: Greg Yares 323-9020
SWAPMEET@BIKEGABA.ORG
Shed Master: Bill Borland 299-3509
SHEDMASTER@BIKEGABA.ORG
Legal Advisor: Donna Aversa 742-0440
LEGAL@BIKEGABA.ORG
Cycling Advocacy: Wayne Cullop 290-4321
BICYCLINGADVOCATE@BIKEGABA.ORG
by Bill Adamson, Chair
BAC Facilities Subcommittee
Three GABA members answered our call to help the BAC Facilities Subcommittee
improve bicycling safety and enjoyment.
Alicia Heiserer, Heather O'Connor, and Robin Steinberg, volunteered to assist
our subcomm. This will make a big improvement in our being able to cover metro
Tucson adequately.
They are already working on important projects, but would be glad to hear from
you about any suggestions or improvements needed.
If you have suggestions for cycling-related improvements, you can contact Alicia
at arheiserer@qwest.net; Heather at heatheroconnor@ mac.com and Robin at nibor@dakotacom.net.
Roy Schoonover and I thank them for volunteering.
Top of Page
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 (East side of Mountain). Find Check-in tables on
the North side of China Garden. Park your vehicle for the weekend in the lot
closest to our set up location. The 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 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 for 80% of the monies it needs to: assist needy
members attend VB Camp, pay for tournament achievement awards, and to 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 (28 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,
located 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.
(Gourmet meals catered by The Adobe Café & Bakery are simply “to die for”, and
well worth the price!)
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 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 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 near the base of the last climb of the day, located
at the boat ramp of Luna Lake dam. Ride back to your car, and drive over to the
Rode Inn & Suites in Springerville, if you’d like to clean up before driving
back home that afternoon; two “shower rooms” have been reserved for this
purpose.
Fee Includes:
Luggage transport for 3 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; a Sweep vehicle help throughout the course for all 3 days; and
end-of-the-ride showers on Monday at the Rode Inn back 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. Wait too late to register and 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 info, call 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 FEE:
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
Prepay for both Reserve meals & save $1.
Combined meals in Reserve: $21.00
LUNA LAKE BIKE TOUR 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
(Hidden Springs Inn will provide shuttle transportation for you and your
luggage, to & from Reserve. Ask about those arrangements when making your
reservations.)
Menus for the meals in Quemado:
Saturday, May 26 Sunday, May 27
Dinner: 4:30 to 6:30 PM Breakfast: 6-7:30 AM
Spaghetti w/meatballs on the side; Scrambled eggs, Bacon & Toast;
Salad & Rolls; Cereal, Oatmeal (raisins/nuts optional);
Ice tea & Lemonade; Juice, Milk;
Cherry & Apple Cobbler. Coffee, Tea (regular or decaf).
$9.50 Per Person $7.50 Per Person
Menus for the meals in Reserve:
Sunday, May 27 Monday, May 28
Dinner: 4-6 PM Breakfast: 6-7:30 AM
Scaloppine di Pollo (& w/o Pollo); Garden egg Frittata w/veggies & feta;
Greek & Green Salads; Grilled turkey sausage;
Foccacia & Baked Italian Breads; Potatoes O’Brien with grilled peppers &
Assorted Cheesecakes & onions;
Chocolate Cake; Baked Danish & Sweet Rolls;
Raspberry & Regular Teas; Fresh fruit platter;
Sodas & Fresh Lemonade. Excellent Coffee, Juice & Herbal Tea.
$12 Per Person $10 Per Person
(Pay for both Reserve meals and pay only $21)
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
By Tony Everett, President
Depending on what part of the world you live in, this may have no meaning to you
or be of limited importance in your daily life. Because we live in Tucson, this
should be of great importance to us.
Sun Protection Factor: This is a number on a scale for rating sunscreens. SPF
stands for Sun Protection Factor. The SPF numbers on a package can range from as
low as 2 (worthless) to as high as 60. These numbers refer to the product's
ability to screen or block out the sun's burning rays.
The SPF rating is calculated by comparing the amount of time needed to produce
sunburn on protected skin to the amount of time needed to cause sunburn on
unprotected skin. Sunscreens with a SPF of 15 or higher are generally thought to
provide useful protection from the sun's harmful rays.
Let's take for instance a fair-skinned person who would normally turn red after
10 minutes in the sun. Ten minutes is their "initial burning time." If that
person uses a sunscreen with SPF 2, it takes 20 minutes in the sun for that
person's skin to turn red. Now, if that person uses a sunscreen with SPF 15, it
multiplies the initial burning time by 15, so it takes 150 minutes, or 2 ½
hours, for that person's skin to turn red.
Tucson is at 32 degrees 8 minutes latitude. Ok, so what difference does that
make to me? Being as far south as we are, the sun provides a more direct
exposure of harmful rays to our environment This can lead to dry skin, and other
dermatological problems, including different kinds of skin cancer. The days of
laying on the beach in Ft. Lauderdale are gone, and we know now, never should
have happened.
Tucson has one of the highest incidences of skin cancer in the world. Not great
news, but that bit of trivia should be fair warning to all to us all to wear sun
block with a rating SPF 15 or greater. The higher the number, the safer we are.
We, cyclists, spend more hours in the sun than the average person, and
consequently, we need to do more to protect ourselves. The days of the
“Copper-tone Tan” should be behind us now. We can still enjoy cycling and the
outdoors, but just remember to add one more item to your list of safety
equipment: Sun Screen with a minimum SPF of 15 or more! This could be as
important as your helmet in the long run.
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by Richard Corbett, Certified Master Instructor & Coach
There are three important ‘rules that help us understand which lane to be in.
These are based on solid national research, and proven over several decades and
millions of miles of bicycling in America. These rules are:
Rule 1: Use the rightmost lane that goes to your destination.
Rule 2: If a lane goes to more than one destination, be in the part of the lane
that goes where you are going.
Rule 3: Never be beside a turning motor vehicle (either right or left turns).
Using these three rules, you should be able to correctly identify your proper
and legal position when turning.
Let's look at examples for each Rule:
Rule 1: Say there are two left (or right) turn lanes – You should turn left (or
right) from the lane on the right, and, you should take a position in the center
part of the lane (not at the edge), so that you become one of the several
vehicles that are turning (in other words, you are in line).
Rule 2: You approach a lane that is marked to go straight & turn right:
- If you are going straight, then move to the left ½ of the lane.
- If you are turning right, then center yourself (to guard against a possible
right hook), and make your turn, in command of the lane.
- In all cases in a turn lane, stay near the center, as you DO NOT want to have
someone try to squeeze by you.
Rule 2: You approach a lane that is marked to go straight & turn left:
- If you are going straight, then move to the right ½ of the lane.
- If you are turning left, then center yourself (to guard against a possible
left hook), and make your turn, in command of the lane.
- In all cases in a turn lane, stay near the center, as you DO NOT want to have
someone try to squeeze by you.
Rule 3: You have entered a left turn lane before any autos are there, and
without thinking you have positioned yourself near the right edge of the turn
lane. A car pulls up on your left, and the left-turn arrow comes on – what do
you do? Wait for the car to go, and then proceed. If there is more than one car,
look back at the car behind the one you are beside, and signal that you want to
move into the line to make your left turn.
Remember, you have both the right and the duty to operate safely and legally.
Using these rules to position yourself for turns will fulfill both.
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By Richard Corbett, Certified Master Cycling Instructor & Coach
It has gotten hotter already, and we all know that there is more to come! Many
of us have cycled here for years, and have learned how to ride in the hotter
summer months (May through September). Here are some tips & insights to help you
be able to enjoy your cycling more during these hotter months.
1. Drink plenty of fluids. (get some salt too). Energy & Sport drinks provide
you both fluid & food, but are really not needed if your ride is one of lower
intensity, or of shorter duration (90 minutes or less). Riding at a lower
intensity, you should eat solids (fig bars, apples, bananas, etc.) and drink
water. The benefit of energy drinks when one rides harder is that you get more
electrolytes, and they help you perform better.
Pretzels, saltine crackers, or other non-greasy, salty snacks are good ways to
get the small amount of salt that helps power your body's 'cooling system'. Or,
you can add a pinch of salt to your energy drink or your water (if you do this
with water, try a little lemon juice too – it will taste better).
2. Ride at the "Right" time. Early risers are in luck, because the early
morning, when it's cooler, is the best time to ride. If you can finish by 10 AM,
that's best; so, depending on your distance, starting as early as sunrise may be
indicated. Avoid riding between 11 AM and 5 PM, when it's very hot, and the
sun's rays are more direct and powerful.
3. Use Sunscreen or Cover Up. The sun can burn you in the summer, as early as 8
to 9 in the morning! Use at least 15 SPF, and preferably 30 or 40 SPF. You can
also wear long sleeve jerseys or longer-legged ‘shorts’, to reduce the amount of
sunscreen you have to use. If you seek to be tanned and 'worship' the sun, be
prepared to look 10 to 15 years OLDER that you actually are in future years.
4. Dress for Comfort. Wear cycle specific-clothing made especially for hot
weather. T-shirts, especially 100% cotton, are noticeably warmer in summer than
a good lighter-colored jersey that wicks perspiration (such as Coolmax). The
zipper in front allows variable venting, and the longer zippers can really let
the air flow in!
Lighter-weight Lycra shorts will feel distinctly cooler than heavier-weight
Lycra, or other materials. Remember, cycling shorts should be worn without
underwear - you will defeat the purpose of the lighter weight Lycra if you
double-layer with underwear.
Socks should be Coolmax or some similar synthetic material - 100% cotton socks
work better in the late fall, winter, and early spring - they are actually
warmer in summer than similar weight synthetic materials.
For men who have thin or no hair on their heads, wearing a thin Coolmax head
cover or bandana helps prevent sunburn, as well as keeping your head cooler due
to evaporation of perspiration.
If you are prepared, riding when it’s hot can be fun, and not too uncomfortable.
For Personal Instruction/Coaching information, or if you have any questions,
E-mail me at kc7ovm *at * dakotacom.net, or call me at 623-0017.
Top of Page
By Richard Corbett, Certified Master Cycling Instructor & Coach
The 8 week series of coached training rides for TTM - Tour of the Tucson
Mountains was well received and attended, in spite of some yucky weather on the
first date (March 4th). Attendance varied from 8 to as many as 15, and averaged
about 10.
Many of those who came out admitted that they learned a lot more than expected,
and were able to readily apply and see results from Coach Rich’s information. A
bonus for the participants was that they all received articles covering most of
the points covered in the pre-ride and roadside talks.
Rich will do a similar ‘thing’ for those who are interested in the fall, when he
leads the GABA West Side "El Tour Training" rides for the 4th year in a row.
The El Tour Training Rides are scheduled to begin Sunday, September 9th, and, as
in precious years, there will be two locations: one at the NW Corner of Grant
and Silverbell - West Side; and one at Udall Park - East Side.
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Sunday, June 3, 2007
This ride is not for the faint of heart! It will require all the strength that
your legs have, and then some!
Imagine climbing 5,000 feet on a fairly steep dirt road for the first 7 miles,
then continuing on a steeper paved road for the last 5 miles to the summit where
the grade gets very steep for the last 1/4 mile! Come enjoy this ride and find
out for yourself if it really is that hard!
Meet at 6 AM at Whipple Visitor Center. Directions: from Tucson, drive south on
I-19 past Green Valley. Exit at Canoa Rd. and continue south on the EAST
frontage road to Elephant Head Rd. Turn LEFT here and continue for a mile or so
until you see Hopkins Rd. Turn RIGHT on Hopkins Rd. and continue up this road
about 6 miles until you reach Whipple Visitor Center.
Park your car here and drag your mountain bike out: you are about to find out
what mountain biking is all about! Bring plenty of WATER and energy food! Don't
forget to remember the rewards of fantastic 360 degree views at the top, as you
sweat and grind mile after mile! And, don't go too fast downhill: watch for the
occasional car coming up.
Ride leader: Tom Ward, tward@dakotacom.net or (520) 625-3649.
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May 19, 2007
The Whiskey Off-Road is most likely Epic Rides' greatest contribution to the
Arizona mountain bike community thus far…
The Whiskey Off-Road flows smooth starting on Historic Whiskey Row in downtown
Prescott on Saturday, May 19th 2007.
Participants will enjoy a brief stay and steep climb on the pavement while
making their way out to the endless single-track offerings located in the
Prescott National Forest. Once in the forest, participants will experience
technical fast single track, smooth fire roads, quality climbing and vistas that
will leave them speechless.
Scheduled in late spring and based in downtown Prescott, the Whiskey Off-Road
offers perfect conditions for riding, relaxing on the Court House lawn and
shopping the many retail opportunities in downtown Prescott. There’s no question
the Whiskey Off-Road offers a little something for everyone; be it rider or
spectator.
Funds raised through the Whiskey Off-Road go towards the Yavapai County Food
Bank and Prescott Alternative Transport.
The 2007 event is limited to 600 participants.
Fees: 50-Proof $60 | 25-Proof $60 | 15-Proof "Fun Ride" $60
For more information, www.epicrides.com.
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By Sherrie Barfield, Program Manager, Pima
County Natural Resources, Parks and Recreation Department
Beginning April 1st, 2007 the Rillito River Park changed its trail use to “All
Users Keep Right” in keeping with National Trail Standards. This will improve
the consistency of trail rules and connectivity between trail systems. River
park shared use trails are set up with all users on the right of the trail and
passing to the left with caution when safe to do so.
With the addition of several miles of new shared use trails east of Campbell
Avenue on the Rillito River, the Pima County Natural Resources, Parks and
Recreation Department felt that the timing was appropriate to make this change
before signage is installed on these new segments. We encourage all trail users
to use trail etiquette and be courteous to other users to ensure that our trails
provide a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone:
• Respect our natural resources, stay on designated trails.
• Keep to the right of the trail. Save the left for passing and announce your
intentions when passing.
• Be aware of persons with disabilities and respectful to their needs. All users
yield to
persons with disabilities.
• Slow down when sharing the trail. Adjust your pace when approaching other
users. Travel at a speed appropriate for the trail conditions and always travel
at a controlled speed.
• When in a group, travel single file if others are present and don’t block the
trail. Allow room for other users.
• Keep pets under control and leashed when on the trail. Make sure your dog is
not allowed to suddenly run to the side on a retractable leash.
• Bicycles yield to all other trail users. Pedestrians and roller bladers allow
space for bicyclists to pass.
No foolin’! Starting April 1, 2007 walkers and runners must travel on the right
side of the path. Bicycle bells are a polite way to alert people to your
presence.
Reprinted from Walkin’ & Rollin’, April-May 2007, which is produced by the Pima
County Bicycle and Pedestrian Program.
By Brian Beck, Ward 2 Representative,
Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee
The Tucson-Pima County Bicycle Advisory Committee continues to tackle issues
about facilities, education and law enforcement in an effort to make eastern
Pima County a more safe and friendly place for cyclists. In recent action:
• The committee heard a report on the Pima Association of Government’s Bicycle
Crash Analysis 2001 through 2005. This analysis studied locations, times and
causes of bicycle crashes. The BAC will use this information to target
improvements to facilities and safety education efforts.
• Committee members have been working with the Downtown Bicycle Task Force to
improve bicycling routes through the downtown area. This is an important effort
given the many changes that the Rio Nuevo project is bringing to central Tucson.
At its March meeting, the committee recommended the restriping of Granada Avenue
from St. Mary’s Road to Broadway to include bicycle lanes as part of a “road
diet”. The BAC also recommended the reorientation of the tracks for the planned
streetcar route through downtown from the University of Arizona to improve
bicyclist safety.
• The BAC endorsed the Ride of Silence event scheduled for Wednesday, May 16 in
Tucson and Green Valley. These silent processions, held in communities
throughout the world, honor cyclists who have been killed or injured while
riding on the road.
If you have concerns or ideas about making the region more bicycle-safe and
friendly, the BAC welcomes your input. The committee meets the second Wednesday
of each month from 6 PM to 8 PM at the Himmel Park Branch Library, 1035 N. Treat
Avenue. To learn more, call 740-6746 or visit www.dot.pima.gov/tpcbac/.
Reprinted from Walkin’ & Rollin’, April-May 2007, which is produced by the Pima
County Bicycle and Pedestrian Program.
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By Melissa Antol, Lead Planner, City of Tucson
Tom Thivener is the new Bicycle and Pedestrian Coordinator for the City of
Tucson, taking over for Melissa Antol who was promoted and will supervise his
duties.
Tom was raised in Tucson (Sahuaro Hi class of ‘94). He has lived in Norway,
Sweden, France and British Columbia. His travels inspired him to become an urban
planner.
He earned a BS (Regional Development) and MS (Planning) from the U of A . While
working on his degrees, he interned at PRO Neighborhoods, City of Tucson where
he worked alongside the Downtown Housing Planner, and Pima County where he
worked on affordable housing issues and wrote community profiles for some
unincorporated towns.
Tom comes to the City from the Town of Marana, where he worked as a current and
long-range planner for two years. He lives in the downtown area and commutes to
his new position by bike.
Tom can be reached at 837-6691 at the City of Tucson Department of
Transportation.
Welcome aboard Tom!
Reprinted from Walkin’ & Rollin’, April-May 2007, which is produced by the Pima
County Bicycle and Pedestrian Program.
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May 16th, 2007
H O N O R
The purpose of this ride is to honor those who have been injured or killed on
our roads.
A W A R E N E S S
We are working to raise awareness that cyclists are here and have the legal
right to the road.
S H A R E t h e R O A D
We ask that everyone share the road with
respect for the law and each other.
The ride will leave at 6 PM from
McCormick Park, on Columbus just north of Glenn,
& will do a 12 mile loop in central Tucson.
Contact: Jean M. Gorman 885-5299
www.rideofsilence.org
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By Richard E Corbett, Certified Master Cycling Instructor & Coach
Yes, hills are not particularly fun, BUT, to do them well requires complete
conditioning and technique mastery, so what better way to be a better cyclist
than hill climbing?
There are several keys to doing well on hills. Conditioning, attitude,
knowledge, and equipment can all combine to make hills a lot easier.
Conditioning
"The only way to get in condition for hill climbing is to climb hills". This has
been a truism for a long time. However, there are other ways to condition
oneself for hill climbing. Your quadriceps and your heart are the major muscles
used in climbing. Exercises specific to the quads, usually done with machines or
free weights, can prepare these important muscles. I think we all know about
heart exercise - it's what makes us breathe heavily - aerobic. This means that
many different activities can serve for heart exercise. You can combine
exercises for your quads with aerobic by repeatedly climbing stairs.
Attitude
If you believe a hill is going to be too hard, then it will be. On the other
hand, if you believe you are well prepared, and that the hill is well within
your capability, then it won't be too hard. Goal setting, visualization, and
similar mental techniques work. If you believe they will!
Try a hill climbing technique called 'Swiss-cheesing'. Break the climb into
small 'pieces' by picking a sign, a curve, or a patch on the pavement, about 50
to 100 meters in front of you, then focus on riding to it. When you get there,
mentally celebrate, and set another goal. Ride to it, and so on. Soon the entire
hill will be behind you!
Knowledge
Knowing gear use, breathing, resting, lane position, eating and drinking is
important to being a successful hill climber. All these are found in the book,
Effective Cycling, and are taught in League Cycling courses. I'll explain each
briefly.
Use a gear that lets you balance the work of climbing between your legs and your
lungs. Remember to breath deeply instead of shallowly, and periodically take
extra deep, 'cleansing' breaths (those who have had natural childbirth training
will know about cleansing breaths - I learned about them as a labor coach for my
wife, many years ago). If you must stop to rest, limit the stop to no more than
two minutes, and simply straddle the bike - don't get all the way 'off'.
Ride closer to the pavement edge, since you are going so much slower. Also, be
especially aware of your lane position on hillcrests and blind curves to the
right. Eat easily digestible snacks, very lightly, on long climbs; and drink
lightly, but regularly, on all climbs. The knowledgeable cyclist who does these
things regularly has a much easier time climbing.
Equipment
Lower gears are quite helpful, as they allow you to sit while climbing. In
Arizona there are lots of BIG climbs that take anywhere from 20 minutes to
several hours, so being able to sit and climb comfortably is essential. You just
don't stand that long! Even if I lived where climbs are a lot shorter, I would
still be a firm believer in climbing while sitting, because the stresses that
standing up to pedal places on your knees are great while climbing.
Other equipment that makes a difference includes rims, tires, and tubes. All
other things equal, the lighter they are, the easier your climb will be.
Remember though that really light rims are more easily damaged, and really light
tires/tubes are more easily punctured; so your choice will generally be a
compromise between lightness and durability.
Hill climbing CAN become easier, but it will still be work for you, even if less
than it is now, IF you improve your conditioning, attitude, knowledge, and
equipment.
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