NO GABA Meeting on Mon, Sept. 3.
Hike, Run, Ride or Bike 200 miles in a day for Arizona Trail Day!
Training Rides for El Tour de Tucson XXV Starting Sunday, Sept. 9th
28th Annual Tumacacori Century Gene Chapman Memorial Bicycle Ride
Jerry Doss Memorial Skull Valley Loop Challenge
11th Annual Show Low Bluff Tour of the White Mountains
Basic Drafting, Pace Line, & Group Riding Skills for El Tour
Cochise County Cycling Classic XX
Bike Patrols Needed for El Tour XXV
El Bike Swap de Tucson On Historic 4th Avenue!
Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists
Advocacy Update - Finishing the Rillito River Park.
Riding the Gila/Hassayampa River Trail - A Self-Contained Bike Tour
Mental Work When Training for an Event
(See related articles in this issue for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders E-Mail_______
9/1-3 The Blue Loop GABA-Tucson Jack & Guenda Spafford jagspaff@juno.com
9/1-3 Trail of the Mountain Spirits GABA-Tucson Cathy Crandall catcran@cox.net
9/8 & 9 Gila Inner Loop Silver City twinsisters@gilanet.com
9/9 (Sun) El Tour Training Rides Start GABA-Tucson
9/16 (Sun) Jerry Doss Loop Challenge Prescott Bike Club Karen Warrick kwarrick@cableone.net
9/29-10/6 Great Az Bicycling Adventure GABA-Tucson Dorothy Barth cross-state@bikegaba.org
10/6 (Sat) Show Low Bluff Mtn Bike Ride Epic rides epicrides.com
10/13 (Sat) Cochise County Classic XX PBAA www.perimeterbicycling.com
10/13 & 14 Cave Creek Ride GABA-Tucson Rhonda Smith onekewlmom@hotmail.com
10/21 (Sun) Tumacacori Century GABA-Tucson Bob Klenke publicity@bikegaba.org
11/3 & 4 Riding the Gila/Hassayampa GABA-Tucson Cathy Crandall cathygeorge3200@hotmail.com
11/4 (Sun) Silverbell Century GABA-Tucson Suzanne Couvrette update-editor@bikegaba.org
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Monday, October 1 at 7 PM
Please join Steve Wilson and Patricia Lebensohn for stories and slides on their
recent bike tour
of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Poland. See the sights in Prague and the
beautiful countryside
they encountered on their 400 mile tour, and hear stories of their adventures
with the challenging
languages of eastern Europe.
Meet other bicyclists!
Public welcome!
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See you on Monday, Sept. 10.
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Monday, September 10 at 7 PM
200 miles in 4 days on a bike loaded with 30 pounds of gear - a Youth Bicycling
Adventure presented
by Ignacio Rivera de Rosales and Daniela Diamente.
Come and find out how 5 students rode their first self-contained tour from
Sonoita to Bisbee & back as part of El Grupo de Bicas youth cycling club. And
hear stories about a Luna Lake Adventure as well as a Tour through Quebec
following "la Route Verte".
Public Welcome!
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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. Ride
Leaders: Guenda & Jack Spafford, jagspaff@juno.com or (520) 625-6687.
Sept. 1-3 (Sat-Mon): TRAIL OD THE MOUNTAIN SPIRITS NATIONAL SCENIC BYWAY. GABA-Tucson.
A 3-day, 105-mile sag-supported loop. Meals, camping & lodging included. Starts
in Silver City, NM. Cycle the Mimbres River Valley, Lake Roberts, cross the
Continental Divide into the Tall Pines of Pines de Pinos Altos. Limited number:
register early! See related article. Ride Leader: Catherine Crandall, 624-8680
or catcran@cox.net
Sept. 8 & 9 : 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. 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. Dorothy Barth, 2007 Chair: cross-state@ bikegaba.org.
Message info-line: 520-349-5932.
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: Bob Klenke, 825-2601, bobmarie1003@aol.com and Judy Bolt,
512-0442, overnights@bikegaba.org.
Postponed to 2008: SOUL RIDE MOUNTAIN BIKE. www.epicrides.com.
Oct 28 (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. 3 & 4: RIDING THE GILA/HASSAYAMPA RIVER TRAIL SELF-CONTAINED BIKE TOUR.
GABA-Tucson. Beautiful 2-day ride starting in Gila Bend. Cycle on Old Hwy 80, a
road with minimal traffic. No sag support on this ride: everyone is riding
self-contained with their own supplies. Ride Leaders: Catherine Crandall &
George Mortimer, 624-8680 or cathygeorge3200@hotmail.com
Nov. 4 (Sun): SILVERBELL CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Options for 100, 83, 74 or 67
miles Scenic course north and west of Tucson. Leaders: Suzanne Couvrette,
891-4661 or update-editor@bikegaba.org and Jim & Debra Harms, 241-5556.
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
SEPTEMBER
RISE SET
1: 5:59 6:48
7: 6:02 6:41
14: 6.07 6;32
21: 6:11 6:22
28: 6:15 6:13
OCTOBER
RISE SET
1: 6:17 6:09
7: 6:21 6:01
14: 6:26 5:53
21: 6:32 5:45
28: 6:37 5:38
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Fundraiser for the Arizona Trail Association - Saturday, September 29, 2007
Join others to collectively trek 202 miles (25%) of the 807 mile Arizona Trail.
You choose any section of the Arizona Trail and spend a self-supported day
enjoying the trail. For instance, get dropped off at the North Rim and run the
Canyon then catch your sag wagon at the South Rim and get to Mormon Lake Lodge
by 6 PM. Or choose a shorter section of trail closer to Mormon Lake.
After your AZT trek, report back to Mormon Lake Lodge event epicenter for the
"Arizona Trail" Day gala celebration and dinner as part of the Arizona Trail
Association's Members Rendezvous. As a registered AZT Day participant, you, your
family and your guests are welcome to participate in the entire weekend ATA
Members Rendezvous activities. Can’t trek on September 29th? That’s OK, do it
before and still enjoy the September 28-30 festivities at Mormon Lake.
Prizes for:
• Most miles completed by: hiking; running; biking; horseback riding, etc. •
Longest distance covered.
• Area covered farthest from Mormon Lake. • Largest group.
• Most diverse group (mix of different modes). • Youngest trekker.
• Most participants from one business, club, scout troop, etc. • Oldest trekker.
• Most money raised.
For info & to register, see www.aztrail.org or 602-252-4794. The Arizona Trail
Assn is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization.
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Don’t Miss our 27th Annual
Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure!
Sept. 28 through Oct. 7, 2007
Registration Fee: $645 - Limited to 200 cyclists!
Ride Director: Dorothy Barth
Information Message Line: (520) 349-5932
Www.bikegaba.org or Cross-state@bikegaba.org
Mark your calendar for Friday, September 28th. That evening, cyclists from all
over the USA, some from Canada, and likely at least one from another continent
will gather in Phoenix, AZ. All will be anticipating the great week of cycling
to come. The next morning they’ll have their bicycles carefully loaded into a
moving van, while they board a bus for Laughlin, Nevada, just over the Arizona
border. Our stay Saturday night will be at the AVI Casino. We’ll kick off with a
welcome banquet, and when the ride starts the next morning, everyone will have
found a friend to pedal with.
On Day One, this year’s tour will travel through Oatman, a quaint old west town,
and on to Kingman. The next day cyclists will ride to Seligman, along Route 66.
On Day 3 our destination will be the south rim of Grand Canyon National Park. We
will spend the next day at the Grand Canyon. Participants will be free to cycle,
hike, explore the visitors’ center, or simply breathe in the scent of the pine
trees.
Our next day of cycling will keep us in the mountains, arriving in Flagstaff.
Following that is a day in the forests and along the Mogollon rim, ending in
Payson. Our final day will include a swift descent and a challenging climb,
ending on a downhill run (hopefully with a tailwind!) That night, at the Apache
Gold Resort, we’ll celebrate a great week with friends both old and new.
This tour is designed to provide you a safe and enjoyable week of cycling
through our great state. We offer free outdoor camping; we make it easy for
those who choose to motel. We’ll also provide three SAG stops each day of
cycling, full baggage and sweep support, several group dinners, and the
camaraderie of an exceptionally nice group of fellow riders.
If you haven’t had a chance to cycle in these parts of the state, here is a
great opportunity. Information is available on the GABA website at:
www.bikegaba.org. Click on the “Route 66” icon in the upper right hand corner of
the screen to link to the tour site. If you’d like a brochure or other
information, send me an e-mail at: cross-state@bikegaba.org. You can also call
the tour line at: 520-349-5932.
Spaces are limited on this tour, so please sign up early. The GABA Tour
Committee and staff would be delighted to have you along on this year’s cycling
adventure.
Great Arizona Bicycle Adventure Route Details
Pre-Tour check-in: Friday, Sept. 28, 7 to 9 PM at the Best Western in Phoenix.
Sat. Sept. 29: Optional bus trip and bike transportation ($) from Phoenix Best
Western Airport Inn to AVI Casino, Laughlin, Nevada. We'll leave by 9 AM. 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 climb. Head to the Black Mountains, and cruise into the old
mining town of Oatman. 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 climb. Cycle on the longest currently used stretch of Route
66. Take a tour of the Grand Canyon Caverns, the largest dry caverns in the U.S.
Ride Day 3: Tuesday, Oct. 2. 99 miles. Seligman to Grand Canyon.
Approx. 5,700' of climb. 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 Grand Canyon National Park. Cycle the
East Rim Drive, or visit the spectacular overlooks of the West Rim Drive. Or
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 climb. Enjoy 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 climb. Ride by Lake Mary in ponderosa pine forests. Crest over
the Mogollon Rim. Enjoy descents thru small towns of Strawberry (great pies) and
Pine.
Ride Day 6: Saturday, Oct. 6. 95 miles. Payson to San Carlos.
Approx. 8,000' of climb. 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.
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September 8 & 9, 2007
Sponsored by the Silver Spokes Bicycle Club of Silver City, this tour has it all
– beautiful vistas and light traffic on mountain roads through some of the most
beautiful country the Land of Enchantment has to offer, plenty of good food and
entertainment!
DAY 1: Ride 45 miles from Silver City to Camp Thunderbird. For a greater
challenge, add 17 to 43 more miles by taking a side trip to Clinton P. Anderson
Vista or the Gila Cliff Dwellings. Start at 5,900 feet and climb to 7,473 feet
at the highest point. Ride north on New Mexico Highway 15, a narrow, winding
mountain road through Ponderosa forest. There are some fast downhills, tight
curves and no lane markings, so caution is in order. Vehicle traffic is light,
which makes for a very pleasant ride.
DAY 2: Return to Silver City through the Mimbres Valley with optional side trips
through San Lorenzo and to the Kneeling Nun Vista. Distances range from 35 to 52
miles for a week-end total of 84 to 140 miles.
Your Registration Fee Includes:
Sag Support: Baggage transported; you and your bike transported if necessary;
rest stops with fruit, cookies, bagels, water, sports drinks, etc.
Meals: Dinner & breakfast, with a lunch buffet upon your arrival at Camp
Thunderbird.
Lodging: Saturday night at Camp Thunderbird, a private camp, which provides
dinner, breakfast, shower facilities, bunkhouses with bunk beds and outdoor
camping.
Hot showers Sunday after the ride across from the finish at WNMU swimming pool,
1-4 PM. Thanks to Barbara James, for arranging access to the showers!
Start: Begin and end in the Western New Mexico University parking lot, 12th
Street & Louisiana, in Silver City. Registration & check-in from 8 to 9:30 AM on
Saturday. If planning to go all the way to the Cliff Dwellings, register at 8
AM.
Cost: $60 per rider, $45 per non-rider. Limit: 130 people.
Weather: Day temps: 70-80's; nights: 40-50's. Afternoon thundershowers possible.
.
One room in one bunkhouses designated for snorers and heavy sleepers who don't
mind snorers. If you snore, look for this designated room. Or camp outside!
Questions & to register: www.twinsisterscycling.com/gila_inner_loop_bicycle_tour.
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Looking for an out-of-the-ordinary ride this fall?
October 13 & 14, 2007
By Rhonda Smith, Ride Organizer
This 45-mile "short but sweet" road ride begins in Roadforks, New Mexico, and
takes you to the eastern side of the Chiricahua Mountains and the spectacular
little town of Portal, at the entrance to Cave Creek Canyon.
The first 30 miles is through rolling hills with one long downhill to the first
SAG stop at mile 20. Then, we turn east towards the canyon and start a long
gradual climb to the Portal Country Store at about mile 37. The lunch stop will
be set up 2 miles further in the canyon.
After riding along a flowing creek in the shade of lush sycamore trees, riders
meander on the canyon floor between spectacular towering cliffs! You’ll be in a
narrow canyon with small meadows where deer graze at dusk. And, you’ll see birds
of all descriptions everywhere around you! Our destination is the Southwestern
Research Station (SWRS), located at the end of the paved road, 5 miles beyond
the Portal Store.
The dormitory-style lodging is operated by the American Museum of Natural
History. It is surrounded by the Coronado National Forest and offers a welcome
retreat from the heat of the desert. As you come upon this oasis, the beautiful
grounds with tall trees and green grass beckon you! A 60-foot long, cool,
creek-fed swimming pool will seem inviting at the end of this gradual climb!
Enjoy ping-pong, volleyball, horse-shoes and an interesting library as you await
a generous dinner!
LIMITED NUMBER OF SPACES! REGISTER EARLY IF YOU'RE INTERESTED!
Ride fee: $120 for GABA/ABC Members; $135 for non-members. Your fee includes:
Two sag stops along the course on Saturday;
A social mixer with snacks on Saturday afternoon around 3:30 PM;
Dinner on Saturday evening at 6 PM;
Breakfast on Sunday morning;
Lodging with bedding, towels and warm showers;
A lunch stop on Sunday 10 miles before the finish.
Sounds like fun? Tell your friends! Come and join us!
Start location: Meet at Shady Grove truck stop/restaurant (USA Petroleum) at
I-10 & Hwy 80, Exit 5, at Road Forks, NM, 5 miles EAST of the Arizona-New Mexico
state line. Park on the dirt area at the north end of their parking lot.
Start time: Check-in starts at 8:30 AM. Please start riding no later than 9:30
AM. Allow 2-1/2+ hours travel time from central Tucson to Roadforks, about 135
mi.
Questions? Contact Ride Organizer, Rhonda Smith, onekewlmom@hotmail.com or (520)
886-2919. Volunteers are always appreciated. Call Rhonda if interested.
Cave Creek Ride Motel List
For those who want to drive over the night before. There is no lodging at Road
Forks, NM. The closest lodging is in Lordsburg, NM, about 15 miles EAST of Road
Forks. There is also lodging at Willcox, AZ, about 47 miles WEST of Road Forks.
No endorsement is implied by listing any of these motels.
Willcox, AZ: Lordsburg, NM:
Days Inn (520) 384-4222 Western Skies (505) 542-8807
Best Western Plaza Inn (520) 384-3556 Days Inn (505) 543-3600
Super 8 Motel (520) 384-0888 Super 8 Motel (505) 542-8882
Royal Western Lodge, (520) 384-2266 American (505) 542-3591
Budget Riteway Motel (520) 384-4655
Motel 8 (520) 384-3270
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By Tony Everett
GABA-Tucson President
El Tour time will be upon us before you know it. This year, El Tour will keep
basically the same route as last year with the counter-clockwise route around
the city. The exact route will be available later this fall from Perimeter
Bicycling.
This year again, GABA will be providing training rides to help you get ready for
the big event. The training rides will start the weekend of September 9th, and
will continue through the weekend of November 12th. The rides will start with a
distance of 35-50 miles and steadily increase each week to 90 miles the weekend
before El Tour. This year, we will continue to offer shorter route options for
those who will be doing the shorter El Tour routes.
The training rides are designed to gradually increase your riding distance and
endurance, familiarize you with the El Tour route, let you practice your ride
strategy and ride with others who are at your riding skill level. With the
exception of the 2 centuries which are fully supported with 3 or 4 sag stops
well-stocked with great food, there is no cost for the training rides.
This year, GABA will again offer 2 starting locations: one at the NE corner of
Grant & Silverbell on the west side of the city, and the other one at Udall Park
on the east side. Details of the rides will be in the GABA monthly newsletters
and on the GABA website at www.bikegaba.org.
Date Time Mileage
Sunday, Sept. 9 6:00 AM 35/50
Sunday, Sept. 16 6:00 AM 40/60
Sunday, Sept. 23 6:30 AM 40/65
Sunday, Sept. 30 6:30 AM 40/70
Sunday, Oct. 7 6:30 AM 40/75
Sunday, Oct. 14 6:30 AM 40/80
Sunday, Oct. 21 6:30 AM GABA’s Tumacacori Century
Sunday, Oct. 28 7:00 AM 40/85
Sunday, Nov. 4 7:00 AM GABA’s Silverbell Century
Sunday, Nov. 11 7:00 AM 40/90
Perimeter Bicycling is expecting over 9,000 riders this year! Early sign-ups are
already coming in. Check www.perimeterbicycling.com for sign-up info and entry
forms. Note when the registration fees go up, sign up early and save some money.
El Tour XXV will be a special ride. If you’ve thought about doing El Tour before
but couldn’t quite convince yourself to take the plunge, this is the year! If
you’ve done one of the shorter distances in the past, consider moving up to a
longer distance, or even to the 108-mile event. The GABA training rides will
provide an excellent opportunity to get yourself in shape over time, and for you
to evaluate your capability for the event of your choice.
Perimeter Bicycling’s El Tour de Tucson is one of the finest century rides in
the country. You’ll find it difficult to find a better supported ride anywhere.
There’s nothing quite like cruising through intersection after intersection with
police officers holding back the traffic just for you. The camaraderie shared
with your fellow riders is special and not soon forgotten. In case you were
wondering, the majority of the riders are not from Tucson, but hail from across
the state, the nation or from other countries.
Proper training is a critical prerequisite to a successful and enjoyable El Tour
experience. It’s key to start early and slowly build your mileage base to the
point you can comfortably ride 60-80% of the distance you plan to ride on El
Tour day. If you can ride 100%, that’s a bonus, but the excitement and support
on El Tour day will help carry you the extra miles beyond your normal training
ride distances.
It’s very important to experiment with foods and fluids during training, not on
El Tour day. Trying out a new energy bar or drink on El Tour day can lead to a
very unpleasant experience.
As you’re training, try different combinations of snacks and drinks. Make a note
of how you feel and how they affect your energy level. If they don’t work out
for you, try something else. Remember, there is no magic formula that works for
every rider. If your snack or drink doesn’t taste good to you, you’re likely to
avoid it just when your body needs it most. Proper hydration is, of course, an
absolute must. If you go out for a 4-hour ride and don’t have to urinate
somewhere along the route, you are not properly hydrated. Low fluid and
electrolyte levels can rob your body of much needed energy and endurance, and
could make your El Tour experience an unpleasant one.
So get ready to start putting in the training miles. Come join us for the
training rides and we’ll see you at the start line at sunrise on November 17th!
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Sunday, October 21, 2007
New Route for the 100-Milers!
Mark your calendar!
Join us to celebrate the most popular bicycle ride in Southern Arizona! Three
options are available for riders from novice to very experienced cyclists: 24,
64 and 100 miles! All three options ride south through the scenic Santa Cruz
River Valley, through pecan forests & Tubac to the Tumacacori Mission, where
there is a wonderful Sag stop.
What makes this such a GREAT ride?
• It’s a beautiful time of year for a bicycle ride.
• It’s excellent training for El Tour de Tucson, which is one month later.
• The route is basically flat, with only a few slight hills. Often people record
their best time for riding a century!
• The route is well marked with GABA signs. Also, ride directions and maps are
provided for all the rides.
• Sag food stops are the best!! Delicious and plentiful food with cheerful
people to serve it!
• Sag support is available along the route for tired cyclists and weary bikes.
• Lunch is served to all at Sahuarita Elementary School after the ride.
This century offers a good opportunity to cycle a supported ride with the best
Sag stops in Southern Arizona, to prepare for El Tour de Tucson! Whatever option
you choose to ride in El Tour 2007, this can be a great training ride that will
help you achieve your Personal Best!
2007 TUMACACORI COMMITTEE:
In order to accomplish all of the above, an enthusiastic & competent group of
volunteers has been meeting to discuss routes, sag & lunch food and in general
ways to make this ride more efficient and organized. They are Bob Bolt & Mark
Levine in charge of truck supplies; Bill Borland & Lee Max overseeing routes &
signs; Pam Cullop organizing the lunch; Dede Seder & Lee Max supervising the
registration and Sandi Rousseau coordinating the 3 sag stops. This should be the
best Tumacacori Century ever, thanks to them!
NEW COURSE FOR THE 100-MILERS:
The 100 milers will have an “out & back” early in the ride before continuing on
to the Tumacacori Mission. There will be a sag stop at Corona de Tucson to
provide food and energy for riders. This is basically a flat route with only
some gentle rolling hills. We strongly urge all cyclists who are attempting
their first century to participate in the GABA El Tour training rides which
include riding 70 -80 miles in a day. It is very important to be well trained
prior to attempting a century ride.
CHECK IN:
All options must check in at Sahuarita School “District Auditorium/Intermediate
School”. Take Exit 75 off I-19, approximately 15 miles south of Ajo Exit. Drive
east on Sahuarita Rd to school. Look for GABA signs and turn into parking lot.
Pick up route and rider instructions here.
NO MASS START:
Begin riding after you have checked in and picked up your ride instructions.
CPSC approved helmets are required for all riders.
All traffic rules must be obeyed.
PLEASE REGISTER EARLY!!
There were over 600 riders in 2006, and nearly 30% of those registered the day
of the ride! That makes it doubly tough to properly plan to provide YOU with the
best sags, facilities and LUNCH at the end!
Pre-registration deadline is Thursday, Oct. 18.`
DAY-OF-EVENT RIDERS:
If you cannot pre-register ahead of time, please bring your Registration Form
and Waiver (get it at: www.bikegaba.org) already filled out and signed to the
start of the ride, with your check already made out to GABA-Tucson for the
appropriate amount. This will shorten your wait on the morning of the ride!
STARTING POINTS & REGISTRATION TIMES:
100 MILES
REGISTER AT 6:30 AM
NO MAJOR CLIMBS!
Starts and ends at Sahuarita Schools (Exit 75 off I-19, approximately 15 miles
south of Ajo Exit). NEW THIS YEAR: Ride east past Corona de Tucson to turn
around point at Highway 83. Return to Nogales Highway & head south to Tumacacori
Mission, enjoying sag food stops along the way. Lunch is available at the
Sahuarita Elementary School at the end of the ride.
64 MILES
REGISTER AT 7:30 AM
Starts and ends at Sahuarita Schools (Exit 75 off I-19, approximately 15 miles
south of Ajo Exit). Ride south along pecan groves past Green Valley, Arivaca
Junction and Tubac to the Tumacacori Mission and return. Flat course. Great
lunch for all afterwards at Sahuarita Elementary School.
24 MILES
REGISTER AT 8:30 AM
After checking in at Sahuarita Schools, drive SOUTH to Arivaca Junction (start
and finish point for this option); Exit 48 off I-19, approximately 17 miles
south of the school. Start riding around 9:00 AM. Ride south past Tubac to the
Tumacacori Mission & return on a flat course. Don’t forget to stop for lunch at
the Sahuarita Elementary School after the ride!
Tumacacori Century Ride Fee
Pre-Registration:
GABA/ABC Members: $20. Non-Members: $35.
PRE-REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS THURSDAY, OCT. 18
Day-of-Event Registration:
GABA/ABC Members: $30. Non-Members: $45.
Registering on the day of the event ? Please bring your Registration Form &
Waiver (get it at: www.bikegaba.org) already filled out & signed, and your check
already made out to GABA-Tucson for the appropriate amount. That will save time
at the start of the ride!
Why not join GABA-Tucson today?
Get our monthly news-letter delivered to your door
AND this ride at member prices!
Add $15 for a one-year individual membership,
$18 for a family membership,
or $10 for student members.
YOUR RIDE FEE COVERS:
Fee covers 3 terrific sag stops with ice water, fruit, PB&J, various snacks and
cookies; sag support along the route; rider instructions PLUS lunch back at
Sahuarita Elementary School after the ride, from 10:30 AM to 3:00 PM.
BE PREPARED:
If you plan to do a Century, or an option that is longer than you normally ride,
please plan to do several rides ahead of time to prepare yourself! GABA El Tour
Training Rides are highly recommended to gradually bring your cycling abilities
to a new level. Be sure to carry plenty of water to sustain yourself between Sag
Stops, and carry necessary items to repair potential flat tires. There will be
sag support along each route option.
RIDE ORGANIZERS:
Bob Klenke, bobmarie1003@aol.com or (520) 825-2601 &
Judy Bolt, bojubolt@aol.com or (520) 512-0442.
Volunteers are always needed and appreciated. Call Judy or Bob if interested.
TUMACACORI CENTURY
GENE CHAPMAN MEMORIAL RIDE
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Sunday, Oct. 21, 2007
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all blanks.
Ride Leaders:
Judy Bolt, (520) 512-0442 or overnights@bikegaba.org
Bob Klenke, (52) 825-2601 or publicity@bikegaba.org
Return this Form & your check to:
GABA P. O. Box 43273, Tucson AZ 85733
Options chosen: (Please circle):
100 mi 64 mi 24 mi
Vegetarian: Yes No (for sags & lunch)
Pre-Registration Deadline: Thu, October 18
GABA/ABC Members: $20 $____________
Non-Members: $35 $____________
DAY-OF-EVENT FEE:
GABA/ABC Members: $30 $____________
Non Members: $45 $____________
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
Prescott, Arizona
Sunday, September 16, 2007
Sponsored by Prescott Cycling Club (GABA Chapter) & supported by local bike
shops.
The 54-mile Loop Challenge has approximately 3,848 feet of climbing when you
include all the ups and downs in the Prescott area. First climb from Prescott to
the summit: 800 ft. in 3.5 miles. Then, ride downhill to Kirkland for 21 miles.
From Kirkland to Kirkland Jct., it is mostly flat for 6 miles. From Kirkland
Jct. to Wilhoit, there is a 1,017 ft. gain in 10 miles. From Wilhoit to the
summit, we gain around 1,000 ft. in 10 miles – then its downhill back to
Prescott! All distances are approximate.
The Jerry Doss Memorial, a charitable event benefiting the Heritage Park
Zoological Sanctuary (HPZS), promotes cycling in the Prescott area. $10 of each
entry covers fees. Additional amount is donated to the HPZS and is
tax-deductible contribution.
TWO RIDE OPTIONS:
54-mile Loop Challenge: Start & finish in Downtown Prescott.
Century Challenge: Challenge riders complete 100 miles--out and back.
REGISTRATION:
Before Aug. 16th: $30 for GABA member/$35 no-member
After Aug. 16th: $40 for GABA member/$45 non-member
More info & registration forms available at www.prescottcycling.org. On-line
registration also at active.com or contact Karen Warrick at kwarrick@cableone.net.
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Saturday, October 6, 2007
Show Low Bluff Tour of the White Mountains is Arizona’s longest standing
endurance mountain bike event. Epic Rides couldn’t be more proud to continue the
White Mountains cycling tradition held each Fall in the Apache-Sitgreaves
National Forest.
The 11th Annual Tour of the White Mountains, scheduled for Saturday, October 6,
showcases some of Pinetop & Lakeside, Arizona’s greatest mountain biking trails.
At 7,000 feet of elevation, riders will discover the challenges of rugged
terrain amongst a Ponderosa pine forest backdrop, plus witness the endless
beauty (and perfect distraction) of the Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest. This
event is a long-standing favorite to Arizona’s mountain bike community.
With the onset of fall upon us, participants, spectators and volunteers will
enjoy cooler climates, leaves changing colors and of course the laid back
atmosphere of an Epic Rides event. The Pinetop-Lakeside community is sure to
please any visitor with ample outdoor activities and plenty of opportunities to
soak up local culture. Epic Rides encourages participants and their guests to
spend the weekend in and around the town experiencing a vacation close to home
and in the White Mountains.
For the benefit of: Show Low Bluff Tour of the White Mountains benefits the
Navapache Regional Medical Center, a regional referral hospital serving
Arizona’s White Mountain communities.
Ride Fee:
66-Mile | 52-Mile | 41-Mile | 35-Mile : $60
10-mile Breezers and Geezers Ride: $55
For more information, check www.epicrides.com. You can get 3D maps of each of
the courses, as well as accommodations information.
Top of Page
By Richard E. “Rich” Corbett,
Master Cycling Instructor & Certified Coach
Do you know what right hook is? A right hook is when a motorist passes you,
brakes, and then turns right so close in front of you that you usually cannot
avoid hitting them. The motorist has broken the law by cutting you off.
In past years there were a number of these crashes, and, sometimes the police
did not understand the physics of this classic motorist fault crash. Since then,
however, Tucson Police have instituted training to help officers better
understand when this happens, and who the fault rests with (the motorist). You
need to know some basics: 1) how to prevent them from happening; 2) how to avoid
them as they begin to develop; and 3) what to do if you still get cut off by a
motorist.
Prevention: Be extra aware of intersections and drives on your route where
people regularly turn. Watch (with a rear view mirror, or by looking back) as
you approach these. If you see a motorist coming from the rear whose arrival
timing might put them in conflict with you, do two things:
1) put your left hand/arm out in a slowing/moving left signal (hand and arm
straight, pointed at about a 45o angle to the left), then
2) move a foot or two to the left to emphasize your presence and your intent to
continue straight ahead. Motorists who are going to turn right will virtually
always slow and pass behind you, and those who are going thru the intersection
will move left a little and continue past you.
Avoidance: Be prepared, as you approach these locations to brake and or
swerve/turn to the right, if someone sneaks past your prevention measures. This
means you must be even more alert as you cycle, especially as you approach
intersections and driveways. You don’t need to be fearful, just stay alert.
Emergency braking (do you know how to do this?), and/or a quick turn to the
right (do you know how to do this?) can stop/steer you out of the path of an
illegally turning motorist. Both these maneuvers are taught in the LAB Road I
Courses.
Mitigation/follow-up: If in spite of your efforts, a collision takes place,
hopefully you are smart enough to 1) be wearing a helmet, and 2) strike the
offending vehicle at as shallow an angle as possible (the quick turn will let
you either avoid the collision or collide at a very shallow angle). If police
responds, ask the Officer if he has had any special training in bicycle-motor
vehicle crash investigation. If the answer is: no, then ask if an officer with
such training could carry out the crash investigation.
Ride Aware – Know what is going on around you and think ‘what if’ as you ride
along. Know what you will do if various, predictable things happen.
Be Prepared – Know how to do emergency braking, and quick turns, as these two
maneuvers can save you.
Know what to ask – Ask any police officer who responds if they have had the
special training to be able to do a competent crash investigation.
Top of Page
Sunday, November 4, 2007
Options for 100, 83, 74 or 67 miles
Two Weeks Before El Tour!
By Suzanne Couvrette, Ride Organizer
Scheduled just 2 weeks before El Tour, the Silverbell Century comes at a time
when your training needs to intensify for the last time before the great event!
Ride on a portion of the "El Tour" route on the northwest side of town, with
long stretches of straight flat roads, perfect to practice riding in a group
and/or paceline.
New Improved Course this year! All options will start and end near River Rd. &
Craycroft. The 100-mile course will have some short climbs at the beginning,
then a long downhill on Tangerine in the middle, finishing with flat terrain for
the last 50 miles! The other 3 options will use basically the same course as the
100-milers, but with some short-cuts here and there, allowing riders to pick
whatever distance they want to ride.
Care has been given in choosing a course with less traffic and in avoiding major
intersections. All major turns will be marked with GABA signs. If riding in a
pack or a paceline, please let other riders behind you know of any road hazards.
Riding at high speed in a group requires complete focus to avoid accidents.
General Course for the 100-milers:
From River Rd. & Craycroft, riders will go east on River Rd. to Sabino Canyon
Rd. to Sunrise. Pedal west on Sunrise to Kolb, north on Kolb looping back on
Craycroft to Sunrise. Then, cycle on Sunrise to Skyline to Ina past Oracle Rd.
You will make your way to Rancho Vistoso via some neighborhoods and La Canada.
Then, the course will take you west on Moore Rd. and Tangerine Rd. all the way
to the west end of Avra Valley, turning around at the bottom of the climb to the
Silverbell Ghost Town. The return will be via Airline Rd. and back on River Rd.,
then over the new Alvernon Bridge to Glenn to Craycroft to River Rd.
Starting Location:
Meet at River & Craycroft, NE corner. Sign in and pick up your Ride Maps.
Starting Time:
Volunteers will be ready to sign-in Pre-registered Riders, starting at:
7 AM for the 100-milers;
7:15 AM for the 83 and 74-milers;
7:30 AM for the 67-milers.
Day-of-the-Event riders will sign-in at 7:30 AM.
Everyone must be on the road no later than 8 AM.
ATTENTION DAY-OF-EVENT RIDERS:
PLEASE DOWNLOAD THE REGISTRATION FORM & WAIVER FROM OUR WEBSITE AT:
WWW.BIKEGABA.ORG, AND BRING IT TO THE START ALREADY FILLED OUT & SIGNED, ALONG
WITH YOUR CHECK ALREADY MADE OUT TO GABA-TUCSON FOR THE APPROPRIATE AMOUNT. This
will help minimize long waiting lines.
Options: 100, 83, 74 or 67 miles:
All options are on your route map. The turn-around points will be marked on the
road. Riders can pick and choose a distance that suits their need; it will even
be possible to change option at mid-point if you feel like more (or less) miles!
No Mass start:
Start when you are ready. CPSC-approved helmets are mandatory. All traffic laws
must be obeyed. Ride two abreast ONLY WHEN THE BIKE LANE IS WIDE ENOUGH;
otherwise, riders must ride single-file.
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA Members: $15
Non-Members: $30
DAY OF EVENT FEE:
GABA-Members: $25
Non-Members: $40
Why not join GABA-Tucson today?
Get our monthly news-letter delivered to your door
AND this ride at member prices!
Add $15 for a one-year individual membership, $18 for a family membership, or
$10 for student members.
Ride Support:
This ride will be fully supported with 3 SAG stops with fruit, water, snacks and
sandwich makings. There will be roving vans along the course to help out in case
of mechanical failure. The course will be marked with GABA "sandwich" signs to
indicate all the turns of the course.
Ride Organizer: Suzanne Couvrette, update-editor@bikegaba.org, or (520)
891-4661, and Co-Leaders, Jim and Debra Harms. Volunteers are needed: contact
Jim and Debra at jimatwfg@tucsondreammakers.com or at 241-5556 if interested.
SILVERBELL CENTURY
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Sunday, Nov. 4, 2007
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all blanks.
Leader: Suzanne Couvrette, 891-4661 or update-editor@bikegaba.org
Return this form & your check to:
GABA P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733
Option chosen: (Please circle)
#1 (100 miles) #2 (65 miles)
Both options must sign in at River & Craycroft
Pre-registration Fee:
GABA/ABC Member fee $15 $_____
Non-member fee: $30 $_____
DAY of EVENT:
GABA/ABC members $25 $_____
Non members $40 $_____
Total money enclosed: $__________
I AM Currently a GABA member: Yes No
NAME
(print)____________________________________
ADDRESS__________________________________
CITY_____________________ ZIP ____________
PHONE ___________________________________
E-Mail_____________________________________
CPSC-approved helmet are mandatory.
STAPLE your SIGNED WAIVER to each form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors appreciated!
Top of Page
Due to overstocking, we have some superior-quality 2006 jerseys with the
southwest design,
currently available at the low, low, bargain price of
$35 per jersey!
Sizes are limited, so hurry!
To take advantage of this sale,
contact Merchandise Coordinator, Sandi Rousseau
at 349-3749 or at merchandise@bikegaba.org.
You can also buy directly from Sandi
at the regular GABA monthly meeting,
on the 1st Monday of each month.
Top of Page
By Richard E “Rich” Corbett, Certified Cycling Instructor & Coach,
and El Tour de Tucson Bike Patrol Director
As we near the beginning of serious training for the 25th riding of El Tour de
Tucson, it is time to review basic drafting, paceline, and group riding skills.
Most of the crashes that happen on El Tour result from cyclists running into
each other, and most of these are when someone’s wheel just barely touches a
wheel in front of them. Read on, and be safer!
Drafting is riding closely behind the rider(s) who is (are) in front of you, to
gain aerodynamic advantage.
- Develop your drafting skills by starting out approximately one bike length
behind the rider ahead. Once you feel confident in your bike handling skills and
know the riding habits of the person you are following you may close the gap
more, until you are riding within one foot of the person ahead of you.
- Drafting saves you energy - this is very important over long distances! A
person riding in a paceline will use at least 25% less energy for the same speed
compared to someone riding alone. Riding in a pack boosts this energy savings up
to as much as 30 to 40%. So, drafting will allow you to ride 2-4 mph faster than
you can alone, for about the same energy output.
Drafting/Paceline ‘Etiquette’: Because a paceline is several cyclists drafting
each other in single file at higher speeds, often with less than 12 inches
between their wheels, everyone in the paceline has responsibilities to everyone
else in the line.
- The lead (front) rider gives hand signals (mostly) or calls out verbally to
point out road hazards to those behind her. Each following rider sees the signal
and repeats it for the riders behind him, on down through the end of the line.
- The lead rider maintains a steady pace, one that keeps the line moving briskly
and prevents it from breaking up (they do not coast, or otherwise quit
pedaling).
- The lead rider ‘pulls’, or rides at the front, for as little as 10 seconds, to
as long as 5 minutes, depending on pace, terrain, purpose of ride, and lead
rider's strength. Do not pull longer than is comfortable, or so long that the
group’s pace drops!
- When the leader is ready to “pull off the front of the line, she looks over
her shoulder to see that the road is clear, signals left, and moves to the left
of the line. She then (and only then) slows down slightly, drifting to the back
of the line. As she approaches the last rider in the line, she begins to pedal
more strongly, to pick up speed. When her front wheel is even with the last
rider=s rear wheel, she begins moving toward the last rider, and as the last
rider passes her, she quickly and smoothly moves behind him, into his
slipstream.
- The rider assuming the lead checks his speed as the old leader pulls off the
front then maintains the same speed. He does not speed up or surge forward to
replace the old leader - doing so disrupts the line. He may also check his clock
or cyclometer to know roughly how long he should pull.
- Everyone watches the shoulders of the person ahead of them. This will help
keep you aware of potential problems or changes ahead of you in the line. Do NOT
watch their rear wheel!
- Everyone rides a steady pace. Do not abruptly accelerate or decelerate with
someone riding just inches behind you. If you slow suddenly and someone brushes
your rear wheel, you will stay up but the rider who touched your wheel will
fall. Don't be a dufus by bringing down the rider behind you! If you must slow a
little, keep pedaling, and move to the side just a bit, so you catch slightly
more wind resistance, and slow very slightly. You can also ‘feather’ your rear
brake, while continuing to pedal (my preference) – just barely applying the
brake.
- Everyone must signal slowing or stopping to the riders behind them (arm down
and back with open palm toward the rider behind), or if you can't take your
hands off the bars, call out "slowing!" or "stopping!" Signal all turns as well
(straight arm pointing in the direction of the turn, either right or left).
Everyone in the line behind you should repeat your signal as they too slow,
stop, or prepare to turn. Cattle guards are always called out verbally and
loudly.
- Everyone in the paceline should separate a little as they prepare for cattle
guards, turns, or stops. Cyclists should separate enough so everyone can see for
themselves where they=re going and that there is no danger of hitting a gap in
the cattle guard grate, touching wheels, or otherwise running into someone or
some thing.
Pack Riding: Virtually all the rules for a paceline apply when riding in a pack.
Two important differences include position awareness and position in turns.
Position awareness means there will be cyclists on all sides of you, not just
ahead and behind. This requires that you also (in addition to those in front of
and behind you) watch those on both sides of your position and their movements.
Position in turns. When turning in a pack, it is critical that everyone ‘hold
their line’ in turns. What does this mean? If you have been riding in the center
of the pack (and traffic lane) that is the lane position you will maintain as
you go through the turn. If on the outside, that lane position, and so on.
Steadiness - Remember, it is important that everyone in a paceline or pack ride
a steady, and straight line. Steadiness is best described as smooth, continuous,
and predictable. Do Not Stop Pedaling!! Use one of the two methods described
above, and you will be more secure in the line/group. If you want to practice
straight riding and become steadier at the same time, try riding the white line
on a street when there is no overtaking traffic, or a large empty parking lot.
Riding in pace lines and groups is exciting, FAST, and fun! Once you master it,
you will be prepared to ride a distinctly faster El Tour time, and to really
know the joy of cycling!
Top of Page
By Richard E. “Rich” Corbett
Certified Master Instructor and Coach
I have used a mirror when I bicycle as long as I have biked as an adult. Why? I
was a motorcycle operator in high school and college, and they (mirrors) were
not only legally required, but they made a LOT of sense.
In traffic, one should (if one is smart) keep an alert watch to the front,
because that is where your major threats are (turn left in front of you, pullout
in front of you, and come past you, jam their brakes on, then turn right in
front of you).
At the same time, what about your need to change lanes? If you look to the rear
several times, as one would typically want to do when preparing to change lanes,
then a mirror is a real advantage. And, when riding with other cyclists, it is a
lot easier to keep track of where they are, and if you need to skinny up, it is
both easier and quicker with a mirror.
Why Use a Mirror?
Bicyclists are the only legitimate road users that are not required to have a
rear view mirror. Why? I don’t know, but I do believe it has something to do
with the widely held view, in the 1950s, that bicycles were toys – not
legitimate road users.
That is not the case now (bicycles as toys), in almost all cases, as government
data consistently shows that bicycles are used for ‘regular’ travel purposes, in
many, many cities and towns across the United States.
On recumbents, a helmet-mounted mirror (or a handlebar-mounted mirror on both
sides) is virtually a necessity, as it is difficult, if not impossible, to turn
your head to look behind you when in the recumbent riding position. Those with
limited neck flexibility may have the same problem, and thus need to use a
mirror.
But do remember, no road user is obligated to look to the rear, except when
preparing to move laterally (merging into a lane next to you).
How to Use a Mirror: Both helmet and eyeglass-mounted mirrors can easily look in
a variety of directions by turning your head. I turn my head slightly, side to
side, to scan behind me.
As with many other bicycling techniques, learning to use a mirror takes
practice. When the mirror turns with your head, your angle of view changes. If
your helmet strap is visible in the right edge of your mirror’s view, it will
help you know which way the mirror is pointing.
To position a helmet-mounted mirror to look back and slightly left, place the
mirror as far to the left as possible on your helmet, in your left eye’s field
of view, without creating a blind spot.
Now, to teach your brain to see clearly with the mirror, you need to shift your
vision to the far left, and the left eye will take on the task of looking into
the mirror (your right eye usually cannot even see the mirror, if the mirror is
well placed). It is amazing how well your brain will adapt to this one-eyed
view, and the degree of depth perception that you will have, even with one eye.
Note that a few (very few) people are so strongly right-eye dominant, that they
may do better by placing the helmet mirror on their right side. Most mirrors are
designed to be mounted on either side of a helmet. But, do try the left position
for at least four days, before deciding to right mount a helmet mirror.
Advantages:
How useful is a rear-view? What situations does it help you in that you cannot
accomplish by turning your head and looking?
First, a mirror helps you to check on the cars behind you (is it safe to move
left?). And with a mirror, it is easier to ride side by side more often, yet
still be able to single up to let cars pass, as and when needed.
Since it's so close to your eye, a helmet mirror has a field of view similar to
an automobile mirror. In addition, by turning your head, you can scan an even
larger area. Since the mirror is flat, your eye remains focused at infinity, and
distances are not distorted.
I have used a helmet-mounted mirror since 1976, and truly believe it is the best
choice. It doesn't stick out past the handlebar ends, vibrates a lot less than a
mirror attached to the handlebars; and unlike a handlebar mounted mirror, it is
not blocked by your own body.
Eyeglass-mounted mirrors have the same advantages, but tend to pull the
eyeglasses down on your nose. And they are easier to lose than a helmet mirror
(even thought helmet mounted mirrors can break if left attached, then the helmet
is dropped or bumped the wrong way).
I use a mirror to preview the gaps in overtaking traffic, when I am getting
ready to move left for a turn. Then, before merging, I always also turn my head
and look to the side, then check my mirror yet again. Vehicles (and especially
bicycles) close behind me on the left might go unnoticed if the mirror has a
blind spot (few do, once you learn how to scan with them). By turning my head, I
have a much wider field of view, quickly, and turning my head to the left also
is a important signal to other drivers of my intent to move left.
Disadvantages:
1. You might not be ‘cool’.
2. You might be made fun of.
3. You might get so used to using the mirror that if you lose or break it, you
will go through withdrawal symptoms.
4. In a crash, there is a very small chance the mirror could cause eye injury (I
have crashed at least six times over the years with a helmet-mounted mirror and
have never had this problem). But minimize this small risk by using a mirror
with a breakaway mounting (all essentially have this), and equally importantly,
wearing sunglasses/eye protection (which is another topic, entirely).
5. People who have vision in only one eye should only use a helmet-mounted
mirror if it can be mounted (high enough) so as to not to interfere with their
view of the road.
Try One – Its Easier Than You Think !
If you have never used a mirror positioned close to only one eye (helmet or
eyeglass mounted), or below eye level (as will be the case in a
handlebar-mounted mirror, except with some recumbents), it takes some getting
used to. Usually two to four days of use, as your brain adjusts to the different
visual inputs, will have you seeing the mirror image really well, yet with only
one eye (helmet or eyeglass mounted).
I use Third Eye ® Pro Helmet mirrors, as they mount well on micro-shelled
helmets. The fan-shaped mounting plate (see the picture) is readily slipped in
between the micro shell and the foam liner. Here is a picture of the Pro model:
The fan-shaped mounting plate will slip between the micro shell and the foam
liner by taking a razor blade and slitting the tape that seals the joint between
the shell and the foam liner, at the location where you want to mount it (mine
is mounted at the 2:30 position, when the front of the helmet is at 12:00, with
the open side facing me).
The plastic arms that hold the mirror will eventually break (when you drop the
helmet with the mirror attached); I fix mine by drilling a 1/16" hole in both
sides of the broken stalk, insert about ¾ inch of a 14 gauge bicycle spoke as a
splint, then epoxy the joint. After it dries (at least 24 hours), it will be
ready to use again!
Mirrors! Don't leave without them!
Top of Page
by Richard E “Rich” Corbett
Certified Master Cycling Instructor & Coach
Gearing: Gears on a bike are a mystery to many beginning cyclists, and even to
cyclists who have ridden for years using their gears, but not understanding
them.
I have said before that there are BOOKS written on gearing, and I have worked to
simplify gearing. This article will do that again, slightly differently, as well
as discuss spinning – the method that can either be a great benefit, or a loss
of efficiency.
The basics of gearing, what most beginners want, includes.
• First, think of your bicycle gears as a Transmission.
• Second, think of yourself as the Engine.
• Next, try to keep the Engine from going too fast OR too slow, using the
Transmission.
• Then, try to run the Engine (pedal) at 70 to 90 revolutions per minute (rpm).
This is about 1 to 1 ½ rpms per second.
Here's how:
• When you are going slower: Have the chain closer to the bike, in lower gears
• As you speed up: Move (shift) the chain away from the bike
• When you are going faster: Have the chain farther from the bike in higher
gears
• As you slow down: Move (shift) the chain closer to the bike
To move (shift) the chain:
1. Keep pedaling, but with minimal pressure on the pedals
2. Move the shift lever (normally the one for the Rear Shifter) to change the
location of the chain to where you want (a "new" gear)
3. The chain should move onto the "new" gear with a solid sounding "clunk"
4. Resume normal pedaling pressure in the "new" gear
With practice, your engine will run smoothly, and you won't grind your
transmission gears!
Spinning: A general definition is that spinning is the speed at which you turn
your pedals (cadence), measured by the Revolutions Per Minute that you achieve.
Cyclists who are less experienced tend to ride in higher gears than they should,
which means they pedal at a slower cadence.
Spinning, as the term is most normally used, is the art of pedaling at a higher
cadences, usually 100 rpms or more. Lance Armstrong made this style of pedaling
more acceptable than it once was, but let’s look at factors that affect
spinning.
What are ‘Normal’ Cadences? Experienced cyclists usually pedal at cadences of 70
to 90 RPM. This range puts less strain on your joints, particularly your knees.
Racers often use even higher cadences (120+) for brief periods of acceleration
(sprinting), but generally ride at cadences of 100 to 120 RPM.
A balance between leg speed and pedal pressure is the best cadence, assuming
that both cardiovascular and muscular conditioning are relatively equal. As a
cyclist puts more energy into the cycling, both cardiovascular and muscular
conditioning typically increase.
So in general, the casual cyclist will pedal at a slower 50 to 60 rpm, and
travel about 10 to 12 miles per hour; the experienced club cyclist will pedal at
a moderate 70 to 90 rpm as they go 15 to 20 miles per hour; and the racer will
spin at 100 to 120 rpm going 20 to 30 miles per hour. Does this tell you
anything?
It should tell you that the stronger you a re, the faster your cadence and
speed. An exception to this though is that casual cyclists will often, when
climbing, gear down, pedal a cadence that is faster (90 to 110), and travel four
to six miles per hour, as they do not have the developed leg, glutial, and lower
back strength to pedal a higher gear and travel up hill faster. Otherwise,
casual cyclists do pedal slower cadences, as they generally do not have good
conditioning in any of the three strength areas (heart, glutial, muscular).
What about Higher, Spinning Cadences? What difference does it make if you spin
faster? Well, to learn first hand, try your very lowest gear - the smallest
chain wheel on the front with the largest cog on the back, and then pedal the
resultant fast cadence on flat ground. You won’t go very fast, but your legs
will, and will tire very quickly from having to spin that fast.
Now try your highest gear - the largest chain wheel on the front, with the
smallest cog on the back. The problem now is that you will have to push very
hard to move forward. This higher muscular effort causes your legs to tire
quickly.
Given these two extremes, a middle cadence/speed must be found. In general,
sitting and spinning (90 to 110 rpm), or standing and pedaling a slow cadence
(40 to 60 rpm), are quicker and less tiring only for fairly short distances; For
longer distances, and sustained effort, cadences in between (70 to 90 rpm) are
best.
If touring cyclists were strong enough to stand and pedal the whole distance up
a mountain, they might do that, but since they are not, it makes distinctly
better sense to gear down, sit down, and keep the cadence up. Of course the
length of the climb makes a difference. On a short climb, standing provides a
good opportunity to stretch. On a long climb, sitting down, and keeping the
cadence up, other tan for brief spells of standing, works best.
To Sum Up: Cadence is something that should change as we get stronger, but we
must watch and give conscious attention to it, or we can fall into the trap of
not achieving the best balance between or heart and lungs. If you are pedaling a
very fast cadence (90 – 110 rpm) shift up one gear and see if you can sustain
that level of work. Quite often, cyclists climb in a gear that is one lower than
they are capable of sustaining, and actually achieve a distinctly lower
efficiency than they are capable of.
In general, to improve, you must gamble by trying the next harder level (shift
up a gear), and your reward can be your getting stronger and stronger!
Gear Inches: What Are They ??
You really don't need to know about gear inches to keep your engine running at
the right RPM s. But it's nice to know what folks are talking about. Here's the
scoop.
Think of a tricycle with a big front wheel and the pedals connected directly to
it. The outside diameter of the big front wheel is 24 inches. This has the same
ease of pedaling as a 24-inch gear on your bicycle (with the same crank length).
This is a low gear for slower riding.
Now, change the tricycle's big front wheel to one 90 inches in diameter. This
compares to your bicycle's 90-inch gear (again, same crank length). This is a
high gear for faster riding.
The greater the number of gear inches, the higher the gear, and conversely, the
smaller the number of gear inches, the lower the gear.
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Saturday, October 13th
The 20th Annual Cochise County Cycling Classic is around the corner! All options
start & end at the 10th Street Park in Douglas. Challenge yourself! See how far
you can really go!
Olympic-like medallions to all 252, 157, 92 and 45-mile finishers. Platinum for
men cycling 252 miles under 12 hours and women finishing 252 miles under 14
hours; Gold to all other 252-mile finishers; Silver to all 157-mile finishers;
and Bronze to all 92-mile finishers. A special Gold Medallion will be awarded to
all 45-mile finishers.
Four options are available:
252 miles - perimeter of Cochise County, starts at 2 AM;
157 miles - perimeter of Dragoon Mtns, starts at 7 AM;
92 miles - perimeter of Potter Mountain, starts at 8 AM;
45 miles - no perimeter, just a circle! starts at 8 AM.
Organized by PBAA to benefit Douglas Association for Retarded Citizens. Food &
water supplied for 92 and 45-mile events participants; Free post-ride brunch to
all registered cyclists and much more! For information, call PBAA, (520)
745-2033, or check their website at www.perimeterbicycling.com.
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Ride with a purpose...
Lend a helping hand...
Help keep our streets safe...
Members of the Bike Patrol are experienced cyclists who make the commitment to
ride the "El Tour" route assisting cyclists with mechanical and first aid, as
well as offering encouragement and moral support. It is not a race for Bike
Patrols!
Bike Patrols must have a current certification, good for 2 years. To be
certified, you must attend a certification class. Sessions run about 2 hours. As
Bike Patrol, your El Tour registration fee is waived, but a small processing fee
is required to cover cost of T-shirt, medical supplies and support on the route.
For information and to register, call PBAA, (520) 745-2033, or check their
website at www.perimeterbicycling.com.
2007 Bike Patrol Certification Classes
9/13 (Thu) 7:00 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Basic Certification
10/9 (Tue) 7:00 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Basic Certification
11/7 (Wed) 6:00 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Basic Certification
11/12 (Mon) 7:00 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Advanced Mechanics
11/13 (Tue) 7:00 PM - 2609 E. Broadway - Advanced Topics
11/16 (Fri) 5:30 PM - Convention Ctr 260 S. Church Ave - Basic Certif.
El Tour Expo/Packet Pick-Up
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Saturday, November 10th
- From 8 AM to 2 PM -
Come one, come all! Don't miss the Fall 2007 Bike Swap! Tell your friends! Bring
the whole family! This is the largest Bike Swap in the Southwest!
Everybody is welcome! No charge for selling or buying! Vendors may arrive at the
site - 4th Avenue, south of 6th Street, between 6th Street and 9th Street, as
early as 6:30 AM to set up. Shortly afterwards, buyers will start showing up,
ready to find the bargains!
DIRECTIONS: If you are coming from out of town (from the north, such as
Phoenix), follow I-10 until Speedway (Exit 257), then take the frontage road
south to St Mary's Rd, then go East on St Mary's Rd, which will turn into 6th
Street after you cross the railroad tracks. Continue until 4th Avenue, and
follow GABA signs to parking on side streets. (St Mary's Rd exit is closed).
Again this year, Bike Swap Organizer Greg Yares will need several volunteers to
bring supplies from the GABA storage unit, to cordon off some areas in the
morning, to direct traffic and for other miscellaneous tasks. After the event,
volunteers are needed to police the area, return all the supplies back to the
storage unit, etc.
If interested in helping out, come to the Volunteers Get-Together Pizza Party on
Thu., Nov. 9th, at 6 PM, at Brooklyn Pizza, 534 N. 4th Ave, just a few doors
from the Bike Swap site. After eating and getting acquainted, Greg will walk
down the Avenue to show volunteers what they will need to do and where things
will be set up. Please call Greg at 323-9020 or yares@cox.net to let him know
you are coming - we need to have enough pizzas ready!
Mark your calendar! See you at the Bike Swap!
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By Susan Dawson-Cook
The Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists are a group of environmentally
responsible mountain biking enthusiasts who have united to protect and enhance
mountain biking opportunities in southern Arizona. When a new housing project
threatens trail access or a trail needs rerouting or repair, the organization's
members are out there working on behalf of hikers, mountain bikers, equestrians
and others who traverse southern Arizona's many scenic and serene trails.
The organization, founded in 1999, has been involved in numerous projects
recently including preserving the Fantasy Island trail system, leading efforts
to build new sections of the Arizona Trail, rerouting the 50-year Trail and
developing the 24-hour course at Willow Springs. Actively involved with federal,
state and county agencies involved in land management, including the Coronado
National Forest, Saguaro National Park, Pima County parks and the Ironwood
National Monument (administered by the Bureau of Land Management), SDMB is truly
an advocacy group for trail users, not only mountain bikers.
SDMB also partners with other user groups, including the Tucson Saddle Club of
the Arizona Trail in the Rincon Valley. The club recently sent board member Zach
MacDonald to Washington DC to participate in the League of American Bicyclists
National Bike Summit, where he met with representatives of the Arizona
congressional delegation to urge support for trail funding.
SDMB founding board member Mark Flint says the constituents are fun and
supportive people and they not only work hard to partner with land managers but
have a whole lot of fun together while riding the trails. "We have lots of
rides," he says. The organization provides a calendar of events for members and
the general public, which includes upcoming rides, trail work projects and
social events.
In July, early morning "beat the heat" rides can be found on the ride schedule
on the club website. The club also has rides and instruction for beginners and
women-only rides. To become a member or obtain more information on SDMB, you can
go to sdmb.org.
This article was previously published in the summer edition of the Pima Trails
Association newsletter. When Susan Dawson-Cook isn't writing or teaching fitness
classes, she can usually be found outdoors - swimming, hiking or mountain
biking.
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What About the Tucson Mall "Gap"?
By Sue Clark
Pima Trails Association President
The Rillito River Park is one of Pima County's most-used and best-loved
recreational locales, popular with cyclists, walkers, runners, equestrians and
roller bladers. Pima County has made outstanding progress with the continuing
development of the Rillito since the project's inception in the early 1980s, and
this 11-mile backbone of the regional trail system is now nearing completion.
Unfortunately, several serious challenges remain to be resolved before the park
can be fully functional, and one of the most significant of these challenges is
something called the "Tucson Mall Gap."
The Tucson Mall Gap is a 2,200 foot long gap on the south bank of the river park
that coincides with the northern edge of the Tucson Mall property. When the mall
was first developed more than 25 years ago, the mall's developer was asked to
provide corridor for the river park, but refused. Almost two year ago, PTA (Pima
Trails Association)approached the mall owner, General Growth, a multi-billion
dollar real estate investment trust (REIT) based in Chicago to discuss the
problem. General Growth also owns the Park Place Mall.
The mall's representatives ultimately declined to address the Gap, and blamed
their inability to improve the situation on the local company that owns the mall
area land, DND Neffson, who leases the land to General Growth and apparently has
no interest in providing room for the river park.
Recently, Tucson Mall advised the City of Tucson of their intention to make
major improvements at the mall and submit a development plan to the city for its
review and approval in the near future. PTA has been in touch with the City
Manager's office to express serious concern about the Tucson Mall Gap, and to
encourage the city to refuse to approve the mall's new development plan until
the dispute over the Gap is resolved. PTA is committed to resolving this
problem, and we'll give you an update on our progress in upcoming issues.
This article was previously published in the summer edition of the Pima Trails
Association newsletter.
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November 3 & 4, 2007
Join Cathy Crandall & Gorge Mortimer for a beautiful 2-day ride starting in Gila
Bend. Cycle along the Gila River through Ghost towns of Arlington and Hazen on
Old Hwy 80, a road with minimal traffic. Many lush green farms along the route.
Lodging (your choice) in the quaint town of Buckeye with lots of time to explore
the sites. Suggested Motels: Westward Motel, 623-386-4665 or Ranch House Motel,
623-386-4207 in downtown Buckeye, or Days Inn, 623-386-5400 by the freeway.
No sag support on this ride: everyone is riding self-contained with their own
supplies. S
For more information of this ride, please call the Ride Leaders: Catherine
Crandall & George Mortimer, 624-8680 or cathygeorge3200@hotmail.com
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Sunday, Sept. 23rd
Sponsored by the El Paso Bicycle Club, this ride will feature "level" rides of
100 miles (one hill), 62 miles, 50 miles, 34 miles & 10 miles.
Ride Fee: $15
T-Shirt: $10
Socks: $10.
Pre-registration will be from 5 to 8 PM on Saturday, Sept. 22.
Onsite registration will be Sunday, Sept. 23 at
6:30 AM for the 100-milers;
7 AM for the 62 and 50 milers;
8 AM for the 34 & 10 milers.
Registration forms and credit card pay are available online at:
www.elpasobicycleclub.com.
For info, contact: Ted Wehmeyer, 915-581-2822.
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Preparing for a Ride Involves more than Just Being Trained Physically!
by Lori Sabado & Julie Johnson
(Reprinted from Cascade Courier, July 98)
1. Have a plan. Estimate your time to complete the ride, including rest stops,
bad weather, flat tires, etc. Give yourself a variable of 30-60 minutes.
2. Ride your ride. Know your comfortable pace and train with compatible riders.
You may be less efficient when going faster or slower than your norm. Learn to
listen to your body. Know when it is appropriate to hang on with a fast group,
or when it is better to ride by yourself, or hook up with a slower group. Will
you have the energy and reserves to hang on? Will you bonk before the end? Know
how much energy you have and know when it is used up.
3. Ride with a heart monitor. Ride a constant effort versus a constant speed: 15
miles per hour in a head wind is much different than in a tail wind!! If you
don't have a heart monitor, use perceived exertion and cadence. Keep your
cadence at 80-100 rpm, and the resistance should remain the same even if terrain
and weather change.
4. Practice riding pace lines before the event. (If you are planning to do so.)
Know the appropriate etiquette and safety precautions.
5. Learn to eat and drink regularly while on the bike. This helps to keep your
energy at a constant level and avoids sugar highs and lows.
6. What to do when you hit those lows? Have a plan to motivate yourself when all
you want to do is get off the bike and never see it again! One example is
imagery. Remember a ride when you felt like you had all the energy in the world!
Recapture that feeling!
7. Learn to stay on your bike. Go into your stops with a plan. What do you need
to do: get water, mix drinks, use the toilet, rest, etc. Give yourself a set
amount of time to accomplish this, and then hit the road.
Nothing should be new to you on the day of your event. You should have
experien-ced all sorts of weather, being fatigued, different terrain, food, etc.
Be prepared physically and mentally and have a great time!
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Get Ready,
Get Set,
Goal!
By Tony Everett, GABA President
El Tour de Tucson is rapidly approaching and GABA will once again offer a series
of training rides to help with your preparation.
This year, the PBAA is expecting you and approximately 9,000 of your new best
friends to participate in this event. The route will remain essentially
unchanged from the last few years with a counter-clockwise route around the
city. The final route will be available from www.pbaa.com in the very near
future.
Beginning September 10th, and continuing until November 12th, GABA will offer
training rides on both sides of town. Rich Corbett will be leading the West side
rides; and Craig Gordon, Mike Wood, and Naran Patel will be leading the East
side rides.
Now is the time to set your goals for this year's "El Tour". We can take a look
at our perfor-mances in years gone by, and decide how much we can ratchet up our
goals for this year. It could be time for a longer distance if we’ve been doing
the shorter rides, or if you're already doing the 113 mile ride, aim for a
Personal Best this year.
The GABA training rides are all designed with this in mind. We start with
shorter distances and gradually increase the length of the ride. At the same
time, the pace will also be picking up.
The training rides are also good practice for riding in groups, and will help
familiarize you with the route. There is plenty of time to set a training
regimen with your specific goals in mind. The sense of accomplishment and the
pride of achieving these goals make it all worthwhile.
Come join us on the training rides, and let us help you realize your goals.
Be Careful, Ride Safe, and Enjoy
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