Coming Soon! Mark Your Calendar! Sonoita Bisbee Spring Ride
Le Grande TOUR is Cancelled for 2008
Earn GABA Bucks When You Volunteer to Lead or Help on a Ride!
2nd Annual Triangle L Ranch Overnighter
Sonoita-Bisbee Spring Bike Tour 2008
New This Year! Sierra Vista Bicycle Classic
Training Rides for the Tour of the Tucson Mountains For C+ and B Riders
Thank You Ram Salcedo, Bike Shop Coordinator
Thank You, Peggy Jacobsen, GABA-Tucson Treasurer
Thank You Dick Shaffer, Volunteers Coordinator
Thank You Dorothy Barth, 2007 Cross State Tour Chair
Thank You, Toys for Tots Participants and Ride Leaders!
Thanks for renewing your membership
(See related articles in this issue for details.)
Ride Date Ride Name Organizers Leaders E-Mail______________________
2/10 (Sun) Picacho Century GABA-Tucson TBA overnights@bikegaba.org
3/1 (Sat) Le Grande Tour Az Parks & Rec CANCELLED FOR 2008
3/9 (Sun) Tour de Cure Diabetes Assoc. www.diabetes.org/tour
3/16 (Sun) Sierra Vista Bicycle Classic GABA-Tucson Larry Robinson lin_kur@msn.com
4/5 (Sat) El Tour de Phoenix PBAA www.perimeterbicycling.com
4/12 & 13 Sonoita Bisbee Spring Ride GABA-Tucson Suzanne Couvrette
update-editor@bikegaba.org
4/20 (Sun) El Bike Swap de Tucson GABA-Tucson Greg Yares swapmeet@bikegaba.org
4/26 & 27 Triangle L Ranch Overnighter GABA-Tucson Cathy Crandall
catcran@cox.net
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Monday, February 4 at 7 PM
Volunteering for the Tour de France 2007!
Presentation by Sally Krusing & Andrew Hawksworth.
Sally and Andrew were lucky enough
to be selected to be Race Course Marshalls
for the Prologue and 1st Stage
in London, England, last summer.
Join us for the American and British perspective.
They will also include some photos of cycling in Amsterdam and in the Holland
countryside
Public welcome!
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FEBRUARY 2008
Feb. 10 (Sun): PICACHO CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Options for 100, 65, 35 & 15 miles.
Flat course north of Tucson with meandering in Avra Valley. Turn-around point at
Picacho Peak. Ride Organizer: Jill Hewins 275-4759, centuries@bikegaba.org.
Feb. 10 ? (Sun): LAVEEN COUNTRY CHALLENGE. Starts and ends at Laveen Elementary
School, 51st Ave & Dobbins Rd. in Laveen AZ. For more info, check their website
at: www.lensenet.com.
Feb. 16 (Sat): 24 HOURS IN THE OLD PUEBLO. For more info, contact Todd Sadow at
www.epicrides.com.
Feb. 23 & 24: AZ SENIOR OLYMPICS, PHOENIX. Cycling Events. State Competitions.
Qualifier for the national events, held in San Francisco, summer 2009.
602-261-8765 or www.azseniorolympics.com.
MARCH 2008
Mar. 1 ? (Sat): LE GRANDE TOUR XX (in Casa Grande). AZ Parks & Rec. 800-335-PARK
or www.azpra.org CANCELLED FOR 2008.
Mar. 2 (Sun): START OF THE TTM TRAINING RIDES. GABA-Tucson. Ride Leader: Rich
Corbett, kc7ovm@dakotacom.net.
Mar. ? : GILA VALLEY TOUR. ABC. www.azbikeclub.com
Mar. ? (Sat): MINING COUNTRY CENTURY. PMBC. For info, www.sportsfun.com or Kathy
Mills, 480-759-7675.
Mar. 9 (Sat): TOUR DE CURE - TUCSON. Benefits the American Diabetes Association.
For info, 795-3711 x 7112 or www.diabetes.org/tour.
Mar. 16 (Sun): SIERRA VISTA BICYCLE CLASSIC. GABA-Tucson. NEW EVENT THIS YEAR. 3
options; the longest will include the Mule Pass Climb! LEADERS: Larry Robinson
and Linda Kurick, 237-5792 or lin_kur@msn.com.
Mar. ? (Sun): AROUND THE WHITE TANKS. GABA West Valley. Betsy Turner, BetTur@qwest.net.
Mar. 28-30 TUCSON BICYCLE CLASSIC STAGE RACE. TBC. Ride Organizer: Steve Bohn,
(520) 884-5564, or snsbohn@cox.net or www.tucsonbicycleclassic.com.
Mar. 29 & 30: MS ROUND UP RIDE. Formerly MS150 Best Dam Ride. Start/Finish:
Heritage Pk, Florence. Options: 35, 75, 100 & 150 miles. For info and to
register: http://bikeaza.nationalMSsociety.org or 800-344-4867. Fund raiser for
MS.
APRIL 2008
April 5 (Sat): EL TOUR DE PHOENIX XVII Organized by PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com
April ? (Sat): DESERT CLASSIC. ABC. Richard Utterback. www.azbikeclub.com
April ? (Sat): BIKE SWAP - Phoenix. Phoenix Municipal Stadium, 6 AM-1 PM. CAzB.
www.cazbike.com.
April 12 & 13: SONOITA-BISBEE BIKE TOUR. GABA-Tucson. Suzanne Couvrette,
Update-editor@bikegaba.org. 69 miles each day, or New this year: option for a
shorter 45 miles a day. Sonoita to Bisbee and back the next day via backroads
around the Huachuca Mountains. Rolling terrain, a few good hills. Great dinner
at the Copper Queen Hotel in Bisbee on Saturday night.
Apr. 20 (SUN): EL BIKE SWAP DE TUCSON. GABA-Tucson On 4th Avenue, 8 AM-1 PM.
Free to all. Organizer: Greg Yares, 323-9020, or swapmeet@bikegaba.org In
conjunction with City of Tucson Clean Air Fair Events.
April 26 (Sat): THE WHISKEY OFF ROAD In Prescott. 15, 25 & 50 miles. Benefits
Yavapai County Food Bank. www.epicrides.com
Apr. ?: LA VUELTA DE BISBEE.
April ? : ANSWER TO THE CHALLENGE. PMBC. www.sportsfun.com/gaba
April 26 & 27: TRIANGLE L RANCH OVERNIGHTER. GABA-Tucson. 58 miles each day.
Gradual gentle climb on first day and gentle gradual descent on 2nd day. Fee
includes accommodations, breakfast & dinner, and happy hour with slide show.
Ride Organizer: Cathy Crandall, catcran@cox.net.
April 27 (Sun): TTM XXI - TOUR OF THE TUCSON MOUNTAINS. PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com.
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Mtn Standard Time, Tucson Az
FEBRUARY
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 7:18 5:57
7: 7:14 6:03
14: 7:08 6:09
21: 7:01 6:15
28: 6:53 6:20
MARCH
RISE SET
A.M. P.M.
1: 6:52 6:21
7: 6:45 6:26
14: 6:36 6:31
21: 6:27 6:36
28: 6:18 6:41
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Arizona Senior Olympics
Qualifying Events in Phoenix
on February 23 & 24, 2008
The Arizona Senior Olympics will hold their Cycling events February 23rd and
24th, 2008. These events will be the QUALIFYING FOR THE NATIONAL OLYMPICS, to be
held in beautiful San Francisco, in the summer 2009.
Saturday, Feb. 23rd events will include a 5k and 10 K Time Trial.
Sunday, Feb. 24th events will include a 20K and 40 K road race.
The Arizona Senior Olympics is held in Phoenix, on 40th St and Pecos Road, with
age divisions for men and women in 5 year increments. The top rider
automatically qualifies for the National event.
You will receive a great goodie bag and have a lot of fun!
We need more Arizona representation at the State and National event. Come and
join us! For further information, check out www.azseniorolympics.com.
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Due to overstocking, we still have a number
of the superior quality 2006 jerseys
with the southwest design,
available at the low bargain price of
$35 per jersey! Limited Sizes!
Men's: Small Only.
Women's: All Sizes Except Large.
For more info, contact GABA Merchandise Coordinator, Sandi Rousseau, 577-1187 or
merchandise@bikegaba.org.
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Sunday, February 10, 2008
Options for 100, 65, 35 & 15 miles
With a course almost entirely flat and a variety of options, this century offers
many opportunities for cyclists of different abilities. Distances offered are
suitable for families and novice riders, as well as more experienced riders.
This is also a good century to set a new Personal Best!
Starting at Cortaro & Silverbell, cyclists head north on Silverbell Rd. and up
over Rattlesnake Pass, a small hill at the north end of the Tucson Mountains.
Then, the course meanders in Avra Valley thru backroads, to the first sag stop
in Marana. Riders will then continue north on the east frontage road to Picacho
Peak, the turn-around point for all options. The return uses the same route, in
reverse. Maps will be provided.
100-milers have a slightly different course in Avra Valley: they will ride up to
the end of the paved road in Ironwood National Park.
Look for a lunch stop stocked with good sandwich makings & snacks, located just
past the Picacho Peak exit. Two other sag stops along the route will furnish
water, fruit & goodies, to give cyclists fuel and some time to socialize.
Most of the course has little traffic. Scenic Picacho Peak looming in the
distance keeps changing shape as you get closer and closer!
Pre-registration is VERY much appreciated. Helmets and good riding practices are
mandatory.
Sign-In Location For All Options:
Cortaro & Silverbell (NE corner); (exit 246, then west one mile).
Park along Silverbell so we don’t block the regular customers.
Everybody Must Sign In At This Location
And Pick Up A Course Map.
Registration time:
8 AM for the 100-milers;
8:30 AM for the 65-milers;
9 AM for the 35 & 15-milers.
STARTING LOCATIONS:
100-MILERS: Cortaro & Silverbell (NE corner). Start riding from here after
signing in and picking up your route map. You should be on the road no later
than 8:30 AM. Your turn-around point is at the Lunch Stop near Picacho Peak.
Watch for GABA signs along the course, as your route will be different from the
shorter options.
65-MILERS: Silverbell & Twin Peaks (NE corner). Drive 3 miles north on
Silverbell to Safeway parking lot. First, you must sign in at Cortaro &
Silverbell to pick up your route map. Start riding when ready. Your turn-around
point is at the Lunch Stop near Picacho Peak. Follow GABA signs for the 65-mile
option.
35-MILERS: Circle K in Marana, Exit 236, west side of freeway. Drive north on
I-10 to Marana. First, you must sign in at Cortaro & Silverbell to pick up your
route map. Start riding when ready. Your turn-around point is at the Lunch Stop
near Picacho Peak. PARK ONLY IN DIRT LOT WEST of CIRCLE K.
15-MILERS: Red Rock Exit 226. Drive north on I-10. Park on East frontage road.
First, you must sign in at Cortaro & Silverbell to pick up your route map. Start
riding when ready. Your turn-around point is at the Picacho Lunch Stop.
DIRECTION TO START:
FROM TUCSON, TAKE I-10 NORTH TO EXIT 246 (CORTARO RD.), then West 1 mile.
FROM PHOENIX, TAKE I-10 SOUTH TO EXIT 246 (CORTARO RD.), then West 1 mile.
Ride Leader to be announced in the February Update.
Want to help? Everyone needs to take a turn to help make all our GABA rides a
success! Please call Debra Harms, Volunteers Coordinator at 579-1682.
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
GABA Members: $20 Non-Members: $25
DAY OF EVENT FEE:
GABA-Members: $30 Non-Members: $35
Why not join GABA-Tucson today?
Get our monthly newsletter 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.
PICACHO CENTURY
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Sunday, February 10, 2008
(ONE FORM PER RIDER)
Photocopies of this form are acceptable.
Please fill out all blanks.
Leader: TBA
Return this form & your check to: GABA, PO Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733.
Option chosen: (Please circle)
100 miles 65 miles 35 miles 15 miles
All options must sign in at
Cortaro & Silverbell first,
then drive to specific starting points.
Money enclosed:
Member fee $20 $______
Non-member fee $25 $______
DAY OF EVENT member $30 $______
DAY OF EVENT non member $35 $______
Total money enclosed: $_________
I AM Currently a GABA member: yes no
NAME
(print)_____________________________________
ADDRESS__________________________________
CITY_____________________ ZIP ____________
PHONE ___________________________________
E-Mail_____________________________________
Participation in this event requires
use of a CPSC-approved helmet.
Staple your signed Waiver to each form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are appreciated!
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April 12 & 13 , 2008
Make your reservations early!
There are other events taking place in Bisbee during April,
and accommodations in a small town like Bisbee are limited!
By Suzanne Couvrette,
Ride Organizer
We are in the process of confirming all the arrangements for this great ride. An
article with all the details will be published in the February Newsletter. The
course will depend on Fort Huachuca's West Gate: will it be open or closed?
Going south of Sonoita in remote scenic areas with great mountain views and very
little traffic, that's what cycling is about! Care has been given to make the
Sonoita Bisbee Spring Ride as free of heavy traffic as possible!
We are planning on the West Gate being open, and will offer a NEW 8-mile shuttle
between Sag #1 and Sag #2 for those who want to bypass the more hilly part of
the course in that area.
As in previous years, we will also offer a shuttle between Sag #3 and the town
of Bisbee for the last stretch of the ride for those who want to ride only 50
miles.
And, you can also opt to take both shuttles! We want to make possible for riders
of various cycling abilities to come and enjoy this great ride!
As in previous years, we will offer the "Copper Queen Hotel Special Dinner" for
those interested and camping will also be available.
Volunteers are needed to make this ride a wonderful experience for all riders.
If interested, contact Suzanne at (520) 891-4661 or
update-editor@bikegaba.org.
Motel List (updated 1/08)
Make your reservations early as Bisbee accommodations can fill up quickly!
We will deliver luggage ONLY to the following 19 places.
(You can make your own arrangements if you wish to stay at places not on our
list).
B & B's:
Letson Loft 520-432-3210 www.letsonlofthotel.com
Old Bisbee B & B 520-432-2080 www.oldbisbeebnb.com
Oliver House 520-432-1900 oliverhouse@theriver.com
School House Inn 800-537-4333 www.schooljouseinnbb.com
Sleepy Dog Guest House 520-432-3057 www.sleepydogguesthouse.com
Gardens at Mile High 520-432-3866 www.gardensatmilehighranch.com
Weather Station Inn 520-432-1691 www.weatherstationinn.net
Hotels & Inns:
Audrey’s Suites 888-437-4263 www.audreysinn.com
Canyon Rose suites 866-296-7673 www.canyonrose.com
Copper Queen: 520-432-2216 www.copperqueen.com
Eldorado Suites 520-432-6679 www.eldoradobisbee.com
Gym Club Suites 520-234-5921 www.bisbeelandmark.com
High Desert Inn 520-432-5747 flwrchld1969@msn.com
Hotel San Ramon 520-432-1901 hotelsanramon.com
Guest Houses:
Gentry House 520-378-3025 www.dnabisbee.com
High Road House 520-432-3950 www.highroadhouse.com
Highland Guest House 520-234-5342 www.bisbeeguesthouse.com
Mayberry's Place 520-234-1252 www.inntheoaks.com
The Raffle House 520-249-4497 sullbill@aol.com
Chamber of Commerce 520-432-5421 www.bisbeearizona.com
Please! DO NOT use Hotel La More (or any other accommodation NOT listed here):
it is impossible for our truck to negotiate some of Bisbee's very narrow
streets,
and some B & B's do not have a turn-around area for a large truck.
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Le Grande Tour XXI
Saturday, March 1, 2008
The 21st annual Le Grande Tour Bicycle Challenge is presented by the Arizona
Parks and Rec Association (APRA). This premier bike event winds its way thru
beautiful desert landscapes around Casa Grande, Coolidge and Eloy. This
non-competitive ride consists of a 100K, a 50K and a 10-mile Family Fun Ride.
Start and Finish are at Peart Park across from City Hall in downtown Casa
Grande.
Registration fees:100K and 50K: $35 before 2/1, $40 after 2/1, or $45 on
day-of-event. On site registration available starting at 7 AM at Peart Park.
Riders package includes a quality event T-shirt, sponsor coupons, post race
lunch & prize drawing tickets. Medals awarded to the first 100 finishers in the
100K, and first 50 finishers in the 50K. Participation in the 2007 Tour was over
600 riders.
Contact: apra@azpra.org; www.azpra.org; 602-335-1962 or 800-335-7275.
Le Grande is Cancelled for 2008
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What are "GABA Bucks"?
"GABA Bucks" are credits issued by the Club in increments of $5. Use them for
ride fees, membership 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
Melinda Correll, 731-3156 or dayrides@bikegaba.org.
2. Lead/Help on Overnighters or Centuries: Contact Volunteers Coordinator Debra
Harms, 579-1682 or volunteer@bikegaba.org.
"GABA Bucks" are earned as follows:
A. SAG stop, baggage truck, sweep vehicle:
$15 for 1-day events; $30 for 2-day events; $35 for 3-day events.
B. Help at registration or other tasks: $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 articles for the UPDATE: Worth $5 in "GABA Bucks" per article. Contact
UPDATE Editor, Suzanne Couvrette, update-editor@bikegaba.org or 891-4661.
4. Organize Social Events (picnics/ice cream socials, etc.) Worth $25 "GABA
Bucks". Help with social events: earn $5/$15. Contact Social Director Pam Cullop,
socialdirector@bikegaba.org or 290-4321.
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By Richard E. “Rich” Corbett,
Certified Master Cycling Instructor & Coach
2008 Platinum Task Force Chair
The right hook is when a motorist passes you, brakes, and then turns right in
front of you, causing or almost causing a collision. Too often, you run into
them, but only after they have broken the law by cutting you off!
There continue to be these type of crashes, and, unlike 18 months ago when I
first wrote about this, the police are a lot better now at understanding the
physics of this classic motorist fault crash. But you still need to know how to
1) how to prevent them from happening, 2) how to avoid them as they begin to
develop, and 3) what to do if you still get cut off by a $#$%$ motorist who does
not know basic traffic law and courtesy.
Prevention:
Most importantly, be aware of the intersections and drives on your route that
motorists regularly turn at, and watch (with a rear view mirror) 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.
Motorists who are going to turn right will almost always slow and go behind you,
and those who are going thru the intersection will move left a little and pass
you.
Avoidance:
As you approach these locations, be prepared to brake and or swerve/turn to the
right, if someone sneaks past your prevention measures. This means you must be
extra alert as you cycle, especially as you approach intersections and
driveways. You don’t need to be fearful, just alert. Emergency braking (do you
know how to do this?), and/or a quick turn to the right (do you know how to do
this?) can stop or steer you out of the path of an illegally turning motorist.
Both these maneuvers are taught in the LAB Road I Course (see: http://bikeped.pima.gov/Safety/November-December%20Schedule%2007.pdf
or the Update for upcoming classes).
Mitigation/follow-up:
If all your efforts fail, hopefully you are smart enough to be wearing a helmet,
and that you strike the offending vehicle at as shallow an angle as possible
(the quick turn will let you either avoid the collision or hit it at a very
shallow angle).
If a crash occurs, and if police respond, be sure to ask the Officer “ Have you
had any special training in bicycle-motor vehicle crash investigation?” If they
answer no, then ask if an officer with such special training could carry out the
crash investigation. (There are an increasing number of officers in this region
who have had such training).
Summary:
Ride aware – know what is going on around you and think ‘what if’ as you ride
along- know what you will do if various, predictable things happen.
Be prepared – know how to do emergency braking, and quick turns, as these two
maneuvers can save you.
Know what to ask – be sure to ask any police officer who responds if they have
had the special training to be able to do a competent crash investigation.
Ride safer by doing these things and your cycling will be more enjoyable, as you
will ride with confidence – not fear.
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Saturday, March 9
Take the ride of your life at the 2008 Tour de Cure presented by Rancho
Sahuarita to benefit the American Diabetes Association. Join us on Saturday,
March 9th, as approximately 500 neighbors, co-workers, friends and family
members participate in fun rides for all ages and all abilities.
All cyclists have their own reason for riding which drives them to the finish
line. Maybe you have a family member or other loved one with diabetes, or maybe
you have diabetes yourself. Some participants join because they love the thrill
of riding with so many other cyclists on a great route. Others join because it’s
a good excuse to dust off the bike and ride with the family.
Start and Finish: Rancho Sahuarita Welcome Center.
Distances: Metric Century, 50K, 30K or 10K.
The incidence of diabetes is growing rapidly in the US and the statistics are
concerning:
• The incidence of diabetes has increased by 61 percent since 1990 and continues
to rise at an alarming rate.
• More than 20.8 million Americans have diabetes — including more than five
million who don't even know it.
• An additional 41 million people have pre-diabetes, putting them at great risk
for developing type 2 diabetes.
• One out of every three Americans born in the year 2000 will develop diabetes.
• More than $132 billion direct and indirect healthcare costs are attributed to
diabetes (2002 statistics).
We need your help to get ahead of this disease in Southern Arizona. Join our
efforts by riding, sponsoring, fundraising or volunteering for the cause.
Visit http://tour.diabetes.org or call 795-3711 x7112 for more information.
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April 26-27, 2008
By Cathy Crandall, Ride Organizer
Bicycle this revisited 58-mile Tour where the desert meets the northern slopes
of the Catalina Mountains. Climb to an elevation of 4,500 feet, smell the fresh
air and restore your spirit!
Take a ride back into time. Whitewashed adobe buildings with red tin roofs dwell
in the shade of giant oaks as you enter this unique homestead dating from the
1880's. The old windmill still stands as a landmark from another era.
Explore the 50 acres of this historic ranch, or just relax on the porch of your
cozy guest cottage. Watch the sunset after an invigorating bicycle ride, delight
yourself in the star-filled skies, and hear the call of the great horned owls.
Bird and wildlife watching is a great pastime at Triangle L Ranch. Hawks,
ravens, rabbits, roadrunners, quails, chipmunks and many species of songbirds
are evident during the day. At night, owls, javelinas, bobcats and coyotes are
frequent visitors. Visit the goose and chickens, and great "Mojave", the adopted
wild burro. Desert flowers, cactus and native flora abound on the property.
Visit the spectacular iris garden near the main ranch house.
This ranch accommodations will take you back in time. Buffalo Bill is said to
have been a regular visitor at the ranch once upon a time! Rustic cottages and
sleeping porches await you. And a great social hour under the stars!
Limited number for this year. If interested, register early! The ride fee will
be $75 for GABA members and $80 for non-members. Your fee will also include sag
support along the route on Saturday; social mixer with snacks, slide show and
guitar music; dinner on Saturday evening and breakfast on Sunday morning;
lodging, bedding, towels and hot showers; and sag support on the route on Sunday
for the ride back to Tucson.
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April 12 & 13, 2008
-New This Year: Two Shuttles available! Use one or both.
- ON DAY ONE: Shuttle over the steeps hills just east of Sag #1 (a few miles)
AND/OR Shuttle for the last 15 miles into Bisbee after Sag #2.
- ON DAY TWO: Shuttle from Sag #2 to the end of the steep hills AND/OR back to
the finish
- Ride the full 69-mile course, or about 45 miles with one shuttle or about 40
miles with 2 shuttles.
- Course with Minimized Traffic!
- Mostly on Scenic Backroads!
- Three Great Sag Stops!
- Gourmet Copper Queen Hotel Dinner - must be prepaid with your ride fee. Choice
of 2 seatings: 5:30 PM or 6:30 PM!
- 6 AM Copper Queen Hotel Breakfast - must be pre-paid with your ride fee! It
pays to leave early to avoid afternoon winds!
With the spring sun beckoning you to Bisbee and the wind at your back, travel
southeast on Hwy 83, and feast your eyes on rolling grassland country with the
lofty Huachuca Mountains at the horizon. Join us for a weekend of camaraderie,
fitness and fun in Bisbee! This ride is for the fit rider who will enjoy a visit
to this quaint old mining town, now an arts colony, nestled in Southeast
Arizona's Mule Mountains. Shuttles allow riders with less appetite for long
distances with steep hills to still participate in this scenic ride and enjoy
themselves!
RIDERS: YOU MUST HAVE A PHOTO-ID TO RIDE THRU FT HUACHUCA.
ALL CARS: MUST HAVE CURRENT PROOF OF REGISTRATION, CURRENT PROOF OF INSURANCE
AND PHOTO-ID TO DRIVE THRU THE FORT.
DAY ONE: 69 miles, via Canelo, Fort Huachuca, Palominas to Bisbee.
Ride southeast out of the Santa Cruz Fairgrounds in Sonoita towards Canelo. The
route will be marked with GABA signs at all turns. Watch for a few cattle
guards, which will also be marked. Continue southeast past Sag #1 at about 18
miles into the ride. Several short steep climbs bring you to the West Gate of
Fort Huachuca. Show photo-ID.
Continue thru the Fort with a few more short steep hills followed by a rolling
descent to Sag #2, at about 30 miles into the ride at Smiley field Ball Park for
a well-deserved rest and some needed food. Then, continue east and exit Fort
Huachuca thru the Main Gate. Follow the GABA signs. Your route takes you
southeast on Buffalo Soldier Trail, then winds on St Andrews to Yaqui which will
have a traffic signal to help you cross Hwy 92. Continue east on Camino
Principal, Campobello, Ramsey Rd., Moson, and Hereford Rd. to Sag #3, near
Palominas, at about 49 miles into the ride.
Continue East on Hereford Rd. and cross over the new bridge over the Santa Cruz
River back to the main highway. The last 10 miles of gradual climb will be on
Hwy 92. At the Round-About, follow signs to the town of Bisbee. As you enter
downtown Bisbee, campers will follow GABA signs to Higgins Park where your
luggage will be delivered. Luggage to the many B & B's will also be awaiting the
other riders. Scrumptious meal (pre-paid) at the Copper Queen: at 5:30 PM OR at
6:30 PM. Door prizes awarded at both seatings: you must be present to win!
DAY TWO: 69 miles via Palominas, Fort Huachuca & Canelo to Sonoita
After a good breakfast, prepare yourself for a long gradual 20-mile descent, as
you pedal south past the Lavender Pit to Hereford Rd. Turn right and follow it
across the new bridge to Palominas Rd. to Sag #1, at about 20 miles into the
ride.
Continue west gradually climbing to Sierra Vista, cross Hwy 92 at traffic light,
and retrace your Saturday route back to the Main Gate of Fort Huachuca. Show
your photo-ID at the Main Gate. Look for Sag #2 for lunch at about 42 miles into
the ride at Brock Field Ball Park. Then, continue towards the West Gate. After
exiting the Fort with a few short, but steeper climbs, the course will become
mostly rolling hills back to Sonoita. Sag #3, at about 58 miles into the ride,
will have food & water. Luggage will be back at the Fairgrounds by 11 AM.
STARTING POINT: Saturday Morning in Sonoita at the Fairgrounds, intersection of
Hwys 82 & 83. Allow at least 1 hour driving time from Tucson to Sonoita, more if
you are coming from the northwest side.
CAMPING ON FRIDAY NIGHT: Camping with restrooms available on Friday night at the
Sonoita Fairgrounds.
B & B's ARE ON YOUR OWN: Make reservations early if you are planning to stay at
a B & B. Use only places named on our list, where we will deliver your luggage.
If staying at places not on our list, please make your own luggage arrangements.
Camping will also be available, as in previous years, at Higgins City Park in
Bisbee.
SIGN-IN TIME:
Register between 6:30 AM and 7:30 AM. Baggage truck will depart no later than 8
AM. Sign in, drop your dufflebag labeled with color-coded motel tags, and pick
up your ride map. Start riding as soon as you are ready!
COPPER QUEEN DINNER:
$18 per person. Must be pre-paid ahead of time with your ride fee. Non-riders
are welcome to the dinner at the same price as riders. Two seatings available:
5:30 PM and 6:30 PM. Please choose at sign-in. Limited seating: The Copper Queen
catered group dinner has room only for 100 persons.
COPPER QUEEN BREAKFAST:
$12 per person. Must be paid ahead of time with your ride fee.
Starts at 6 AM.
LUGGAGE:
Please use ONLY the designated B & B's on our list: luggage will be delivered
only to the listed places. You are welcome to make your own arrangements, if you
opt for accommodations not on our list. Luggage will be delivered by 1 PM on
Saturday. On Sunday morning, put your luggage at the same place where is was
delivered the day before, no later than 8 AM. Luggage not at the proper place at
the proper time will not be picked up by our truck driver. Luggage will be back
at the start by 11 AM.
NEW THIS YEAR: TWO SHUTTLES AVAILABLE EACH DAY:
If you elect to ride the shorter option by using one or both shuttles, let the
ride leader know ahead of time when you send your registration in. We will have
a van shuttle. on DAY 1, it will be between Sag #1 and the top of the climb, and
also from Sag #3 to Bisbee. On DAY 2, it will be from Sag #2 to the end of the
steep hills or all the way back to the finish in Sonoita - your choice.
RIDE ORGANIZER:
Suzanne Couvrette, (520) 891-4661 or e-mail at Update-Editor@bikegaba.org.
Volunteers welcome! GABA Bucks awarded to all volunteers! Call Suzanne as soon
as possible. Please register early: it makes the ride organizer's job much
easier for planning meals, sag food, number of volunteers, etc. Thank you.
Sonoita-Bisbee Ride Fee
Pre-registered Riders:
GABA/ABC Members: . . . . . . . . . . . $55
Non members: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $70
Sat. Dinner At Copper Queen: . . . . . . . $18
(Limited to first 100 pre-paid dinners ONLY)
Non-riders dinner: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $18
Sun. Brkfst at Copper Queen at 6 AM: . . $12
(MEALS MUST BE PRE-PAID WITH RIDE FEE)
Day-of-Event Fee:
GABA/ABC members: . . . . . . . . . . . $70
Non members:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $85
Why not join GABA-Tucson today?
Get our monthly newsletter delivered to your door
AND this ride at member price!
Add $15 for a one-year individual membership,
$18 for a family membership, or $10 for students.
Your Ride Fee Includes:
1) Camping w/restrooms at Sonoita Fairgrounds on Friday night before the ride;
2) Safe parking for you car at Sonoita Fairgrounds for whole weekend;
3) SAG Support along the route on both days for tired cyclists or bike problems;
4) 3 Sag Stops along the course each day, with fruit, snacks & lunch makings;
5) Baggage truck to deliver your luggage at camping site or at your hotel (tag
your dufflebag with hotel name tags at start of ride);
6) Camping on Sat. night at Higgins Park with hot showers; bring towel/soap;
7) Route map and riders instructions;
8) GABA Signs at each turn along the course for both days;
9) Door Prizes at Copper Queen Saturday dinner - you must be present to win;
10) Porta-Johns at 3rd Sag Stop on Sat, and at 1st Sag Stop on Sunday;
11) TWO SHUTTLES AVAILABLE ON EACH DAY. See above for details.
Motel List (updated 1/08)
Make your reservations early as Bisbee accommodations can fill up quickly!
We will deliver luggage ONLY to the following 19 places.
(You can make your own arrangements if you wish to stay at places not on our
list).
B & B's:
Letson Loft 520-432-3210 www.letsonlofthotel.com
Old Bisbee B & B 520-432-2080 www.oldbisbeebnb.com
Oliver House 520-432-1900 oliverhouse@theriver.com
School House Inn 800-537-4333 www.schooljouseinnbb.com
Sleepy Dog Guest House 520-432-3057 www.sleepydogguesthouse.com
Gardens at Mile High 520-432-3866 www.gardensatmilehighranch.com
Weather Station Inn 520-432-1691 www.weatherstationinn.net
Hotels & Inns:
Audrey’s Suites 888-437-4263 www.audreysinn.com
Canyon Rose suites 866-296-7673 www.canyonrose.com
Copper Queen: 520-432-2216 www.copperqueen.com
Eldorado Suites 520-432-6679 www.eldoradobisbee.com
Gym Club Suites 520-234-5921 www.bisbeelandmark.com
High Desert Inn 520-432-5747 flwrchld1969@msn.com
Hotel San Ramon 520-432-1901 hotelsanramon.com
Guest Houses:
Gentry House 520-378-3025 www.dnabisbee.com
High Road House 520-432-3950 www.highroadhouse.com
Highland Guest House 520-234-5342 www.bisbeeguesthouse.com
Mayberry's Place 520-234-1252 www.inntheoaks.com
The Raffle House 520-249-4497 sullbill@aol.com
Chamber of Commerce 520-432-5421 www.bisbeearizona.com
Please! DO NOT use Hotel La More (or any other accommodation NOT listed here):
it is impossible for our truck to negotiate some of Bisbee's very narrow
streets,
and some B & B's do not have a turn-around area for a large truck.
SONOITA-BISBEE SPRING RIDE
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
APRIL 12 & 13, 2008
ONE FORM PER RIDER.
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all the blanks.
Leader: Suzanne Couvrette, (520) 891-4661
or update-editor@bikegaba.org Return this form & your check to:
GABA, P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733
EACH RIDER MUST CARRY A PHOTO ID
TO RIDE THRU FORT HUACHUCA.
Option chosen: 69 mi ______
(Includes a shuttle) 45 mi ______
(2 shuttles this year: avoid the hills after Sag #1
and/or avoid the last 15-mile climb into Bisbee)
Motel Name________________________________
Camping __________ (BRING TOWEL & SOAP!)
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
I AM Currently a GABA member: YES NO
GABA/ABC Member ride fee . . . . . . $55 $_____
Non-Member ride fee . . . . . . . . . . .$70 $_____
Rider Sat. Dinner at Copper Queen $18 $_____
Non-rider dinner at Copper Queen $18 $_____
(Room for only 100 pre-paid meals)
Sun. Brkfst at Copper Queen . . . . . $12 $_____
(Must be pre-paid - Starts at 6 AM)
DAY-OF-THE-EVENT FEE:
GABA/ABC member . . . . . . . . . . . .$70 $________
Non-member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $85 $________
Total money enclosed: $_________
NAME
(print)_____________________________________
ADDRESS__________________________________
CITY_____________________ ZIP _____________
PHONE ____________________________________
E-Mail_____________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets mandatory.
STAPLE a SIGNED WAIVER to each Form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are much appreciated.
Make your reservations early if you plan to stay at B & B's.! Camping will also
be available, as in previous years, at Higgins City Park in Bisbee..
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Sunday, March 16, 2008
Options for 35, 65 or 95 miles
The Sierra Vista Classic Bike Ride
Now we have it! It’s planned and we have a date that does not conflict with
other spring-time rides. All we have to do is train and prepare for THE,
FIRST-EVER, SIERRA VISTA CLASSIC BIKE RIDE, March 16, 2008.
The weather will be perfect for bicycling, plus wildflowers will be blooming and
trees greening out. The scenery will be spectacular as we pedal through
elevation changes from 3000 to 5000 feet.
We are offering 3 different ride levels this year. Each ride is designed to
accommodate differing rider abilities.
The 35 mile riders will perform an out-and-back to the first sag stop at 17.5
miles. There is a gradual change in elevation that will tempt for future greater
climbs.
The 63 milers will continue past the first sag to go through the Time Tunnel and
around Bisbee. This loop will continue to the second sag for lunch beside the
San Pedro crossing before heading back to the start.
The 90 mile riders will pass through Palominas following sag stop #2 for lunch
with the 63 milers, and go on to Coronado National Monument. Here there are REAL
restrooms and running water! Riders will head north along the base of the
Huachuca Mountains to sag #3 and back to the start.
Registration is from 7:00-8:30 AM (90 mile riders should register at 7 and start
riding promptly.)
We are looking for volunteers as well as riders. Please pass the word along as
we would like to make this a yearly event. We look forward to help from the
community to make this a successful ride.
SIERRA VISTA BICYCLE CLASSIC
PRE-REGISTRATION FORM
Sunday, March 16, 2008
ONE FORM PER RIDER.
Photocopies accepted. Please fill out all the blanks.
Leaders: Larry Robinson & Linda Kurick,
lin_kur@msn.com or (520) 237-5792 Return this form & your check to:
GABA, P. O. Box 43273, Tucson, AZ 85733
Option chosen: 95 mi ____ (climb Mule Pass)
65 mi ____ (climb Mule Pass)
35 mi ____ (no major climb)
PRE-REGISTRATION FEE:
I AM Currently a GABA member: YES NO
GABA/ABC Member . . . . . . . . . . . .$20 $________
Non-member ride fee . . . . . . . . . . $30 $________
DAY-OF-THE-EVENT FEE:
GABA/ABC member . . . . . . . . . . . .$30 $________
Non-member . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . $40 $________
Total money enclosed: $_________
NAME
(print)_____________________________________
ADDRESS__________________________________
CITY_____________________ ZIP _____________
PHONE ____________________________________
E-Mail_____________________________________
CPSC-approved helmets mandatory.
STAPLE a SIGNED WAIVER to each Form.
Forms & Waivers cut with scissors are much appreciated.
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Starting Sunday, March 2, 2008
Join Coach Rich Corbett for a 8-week series of coached training rides for the
TTM (Tour of the Tucson Mountains), the 70+ mile well-known ride which will be
held Sunday, April 27th. Rich will use a variety of training rides locations and
routes, which will be fun and in many cases, new places for you to ride.
The training rides begin Sunday March 2nd, with a 25-mile ride, and lots of
valuable and useful tips on better riding techniques. They will continue until
April 20th, except for March 16th and 30th. Rich will not be available on those
2 dates, but he will provide structured workouts for these dates.
The first ride will start at Mission Park Library, Ajo & Mission, NW corner, at
7:30 AM. A schedule of the upcoming rides will be handed out at this first ride.
These training rides are ‘geared’ to both C+ and B riders:
C+ riders average 14 to 16 mph, and are described in the Update as "solid
cyclists competent with safety and bike handling skills - should be experienced
riding in a group. Occasional stops and regroupings as designated by ride
leader. Individuals experiencing mechanical difficulties can expect a few
members of the group to stop and lend assistance, including "pulls" to rejoin
the main group."
B Riders are described in the Update as “experienced cyclists with group riding
experience wishing to improve individual and group riding skills as well as
physical fitness. Some sprinting and intervals, etc. Occasional stops to
regroup. Although physically challenging, emphasis is still on group riding for
fun. Anyone not able to keep up or having mechanical difficulties might be left
by the leader/group, check with leader before ride.”
Set your goal! Make a commitment to yourself! Go for a Personal Best! You'll
have 8 weeks to learn better cycling techniques and training methods that will
greatly improve your performance! Then see the results on Sunday, April 27th!
For more info about this training series, e-mail Rich at: kc7ovm “AT”
dakotacom.net.
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Thanks, Ram, for all your work with the Club over the last couple of years. Ram
was in charge of contacting all the bike shops in Tucson and in Southern Arizona
to see if they wanted to advertise in our newsletter, and to see if they were
receiving their bundles of 20 or 30 newsletters, depending on the size and need
of each shop. GABA provides Club newsletters to all the bike shops, where
prospective members can get them for free. Thanks again, Ram, and best of luck
to you in your new ventures.
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Thanks, Peggy, for your great work with the Club in the last few years. Peggy,
being the Treasurer, was very busy keeping track of income and expenses for all
the rides, as well as all the other financial numbers needed to give to the
Board each month, as well as helping the board plan a yearly budget. Peggy did
an excellent job and we thank her for being well organized and for being able to
provide all the data in a timely manner. Thanks again, Peggy, and we will see
you on many rides in the future!
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Thanks, Dick, for being on the Board for many years, first as Educational
Director, and then, as Volunteers Coordinator in the last year. Dick was in
charge of keeping track of all the members who indicated that they would be
willing to volunteer, on a spreadsheet with the detail of what each one was
willing to volunteers for. Thanks again, Dick, and good luck in your big move to
Washington DC.
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Thanks, Dorothy, for chairing the Cross State Tour for the last 4 years. Dorothy
spent countless hours each year planning our week-long tour, and making sure
that, on Tour week, every planned detail was in place to give tour participants
a memorable experience!
Now that she is no longer the Cross State Chair, Dorothy has graciously
volunteered to be the Century Coordinator. Welcome back to the Board in 2008,
Dorothy!
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Keeping your bike clean and lubricated, besides making your bike the shiniest
one in the club, is the most important regular maintenance to do on the moving
components of your bike.
What do I need?
A basic level of maintenance can be achieved using a rag and oil. Save old
shirts for the rag; however, which oil/lubricant to use is crucial!
Petroleum-based oils or synthetic (Tri-Flow or Super Lube) work the best. Motor
oils or WD40 are either too heavy or attract dirt which wears out the chain and
gears fast.
What do I clean & lubricate first?
Cleaning and re-lubrication of your chain (or the all-important drive shaft).
First, liberally apply oil or degreaser to the chain. This will make removing
the grime and dirt build up a bit easier. Next, using the rag, wrap it around
the chain and hold on firmly while using your free hand to pedal backwards.
Apply pressure around the chain until the excess oil, grime and dirt are
removed. Old toothbrushes or a small section of rag can be used to clean between
the gears of the freewheel. Finally, apply enough oil on the chain so that it
doesn't drip yet doesn't look "wiped" dry. If you think you have applied too
much, wipe off excess oil but with less pressure around the chain. Clean and
lube the chain as often as possible, but especially after riding in the rain or
offroading in dry, sandy or wet, muddy conditions.
What about derailleurs?
A little bit tougher to clean, but since they are part of the drive train,
essential. First, lube them every time you lube your chain. When cleaning them,
two tools are handy: a toothbrush and a pipe cleaner. Typically, saturating the
derailleur with oil will help clean away the grime and dirt while using one of
the tools mentioned above. When done, apply lube on the spring, pulleys, screw
threads and at the point where the cable comes out of the casing. Be careful not
to get oil on the wheel rims!
Does this mean I should lube the cables also?
Now, we are getting into more detailed maintenance. The cables move a lot,
causing friction and wear. The casing that wrap these cables also can hold
water, and where there is water, there follows rust. Squirt lube where the brake
cables and derailleur cables enter and exit the external casing. Prevent
spray-back by placing a rag over the spray lube (lube in the eyes is not a good
feeling; wear safety classes if you have them).
What if I get oil on the wheel rims?
Don't worry, you can easily clean your rims of oily residue. In addition to
lubricating the brakes, you can enhance your braking by taking the following two
steps.
First, clean the rims of the wheel by scrubbing them with soapy water or
degreaser with a clean sponge or brush. Use soap (such as dish detergent) that
will not leave residue. Solvents also work, but some will either leave a residue
or potentially harm the rubber tires, so use caution. Degreasers used for the
chain will help eliminate greasy grime, but use soap and water afterward for the
final cleaning.
Secondly, clean the contact surfaces of the brake pads with a file or an emery
cloth. dirt and grit can be picked up by the rim and become imbedded in the
pads, creating an abrasive surface that will erode the wheel rims over time.
Final word on cleaning
Remember that it's not the cleanliness of the frame that makes a bike function.
Keeping the drive chain cleaned and lubricated will provide you with easier
pedaling. Keeping the brakes and cables lubricated will benefit your own safety.
Finally, occasionally having the bearings replaced will make rolling resistance
negligible on long rides.
Written by Jim Krep and taken from the Joliet Bicycle Club Newsletter
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The advantages of an improved pedal stroke are more power, increased endurance
and a smoother cadence. The improvements that will give you these advantages
are:
- Maintaining a firm foot platform by NOT allowing your heel to "dip" or "rise"
during the pedal stroke;
- Equalizing the pressure that is felt through the balls of your feet; and
- Visualizing an ideal pedal stroke.
Maintaining a firm foot platform allows for direct and instantaneous application
of power to the pedals from the quadriceps on the down stroke and the hamstrings
on the up stroke. Additionally, maintaining a firm foot platform and not
allowing the heel to dip or rise, allows for a more efficient "scraping" motion
at the bottom of the stroke and more efficient thrusting motion at the top of
the stroke.
Equalizing the pressure that is felt through the balls of the feet is the
physical sensation that indicates both legs are working with equal power and a
correct pedal stroke is being utilized. The net result is a pedal stroke that is
smoother and more powerful. One tip to minimize tow curling is to occasionally
raise your toes; this assists in feeling how much pressure is being applied
through the balls of the feet and also relaxes the feet.
Visualizing an ideal pedal stroke allows the body to quickly incorporate changes
in the pedal stroke. There is a different visualization for the faster stroke
used on the flats and the slower stroke used on steeper climbs.
For the faster stroke, the driving down, scraping back, pulling up and thrusting
over the top is one continuous thought. The increase in pressure as the pedals
come over the top is a lead-in to the thought of "down-up-and-around". A fluid
or flowing thought works well for the faster pedal stroke.
The slower cadence on steeper climbs permits the stroke sensations to be
separated into four distinct categories.
The top of the stroke starts by thrusting the toes forward with increasing
pressure felt on the ball of the foot. On the down stroke, slightly tense the
calf muscle and think about the quadriceps, driving directly down, through the
ball of the foot. At the bottom of the stroke a distinct pulling or scraping
motion occurs. The up stroke's pulling motion should be felt in the hamstrings.
It is critical to maintain a firm foot platform in all four parts of the stroke
by preventing the heel from dipping or rising.
Hope these tips contribute to your cycling pleasure!
From the newsletter of the Sacramento Wheelmen. Reprinted by Adventure Cycling.
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I seem to be stuck in a rut! I can't go farther or faster than I could in the
beginning! Why don't I get better? Why can't I improve?
If you are in that situation, then read on and see what has to happen in order
to break out of this rut.
There are no push button solutions. Ask yourself the following questions: How
often do I ride weekly? What was my longest ride and how did I feel afterward?
What's the fastest I can ride without falling apart?
Let's look at how many times a week you ride. If the answer is once or twice a
week, you've solved the problem!! In order to improve, you must (uh-oh, a dirty
word) TRAIN!
What is "training"?
That means exercising at a decent intensity or distance one day and "restoring'
or 'recovering' the next. Easy riding for short distances in an easy gear can be
considered recovery. After each ride or workout when you challenge yourself then
recover, you improve to a level higher than you'd been previously. These gains
are not apparent right away, but over a period of weeks, they are dramatic! In
order for a training effect to take place, you must exercise a minimum of three
times a week for at least 30 minutes after warming up. This satisfies the
minimum equation for cardiovascular fitness and will provide your cycling
muscles with strength for continued training.
How will I find the time??
I work 5 days a week!!
Well, if you make the decision, you'll find the time. You can ride at least 1 or
2 evenings per week before darkness. If you can ride twice on weekends, that's
even better! The decision is yours, and may unlock the door to improvement.
Consistency is the key to improvement.
Once you've developed consistency and have been spinning in easy gears riding
three to four times a week, it now is time to move to the next level. You now
have a good foundation or base on which to build real gains. Fitness, like a
house, must begin with a good foundation. Building your base took patience and
commitment. Now you're ready to make some serious gains in your ability to go
farther and faster.
First, let's talk about ENDURANCE.
With the assumption that you're riding three times a week with your long ride of
20 to 30 miles weekly, here is the KEY to increasing your endurance safely:
Increase your long ride by TEN MILES every other week. For those of you not as
ambitious, increase your long ride by TEN MILES once a month. Training schedules
will then follow this cycle. This works because of the stress and recovery
principle. Forty miles is a greater stress than the 30 you're used to riding.
The following week, backing off to 30 miles allows your body to recover and
adapt to the previous week's increased mileage.
How do I get fast?
Speed is one of the most seductive elements of cycling. The NEED FOR SPEED or
the ability to ride faster at will attracts cyclists of all levels. Speedwork
can be dangerous! Too much can cause very little improvement, and worse,
possible injury. Grasp the fact that cycling is an aerobic sport. Effort exerted
is never sustained at the maximum level for the duration of the ride, but at 70
to 85% of your maximum level. Try to plan your hard efforts at no more than 10
to 15% of your weekly mileage.
All training is specific.
Biological adaptations that occur from training are specific to the type of
training you do. Long slow distance makes long slow riders! If you always ride
12 to 14 mph for example, you'll never adapt to faster-paced riding of 16 to 20
mph. In essence, you are what you do.
Another speedwork principle is to cut your mileage when riding hard. If you
usually ride a 15 miler, cut the distance to 10 when doing speed work. Using our
10 mile ride as an example, break up the efforts as follows: warm up 4 miles
spinning easy gears; speedwork 4 miles; and cool down 2 miles. Follow the drill
RX on a weekly basis.
Be patient; gains in fitness will take several weeks to materialize. Good luck
in your efforts!
Written by George Monte-Leon and found in the Staten Island Bicycling
Association Newsletter. (Reprinted by Adventure Cycling.)
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Reprinted from Adventure Cycling Association
Bicycle Adjustments
A "rule of thumb" for measuring proper saddle height, is to stand with your back
to the wall, while wearing your cycling shoes. Place a book firmly between your
legs, as if it were the saddle. Then measure the distance from the top of the
book (i.e., your crotch) to the floor. Multiply that measurement by 1.09 to get
the distance that the cup of your saddle should be from the center of the pedal
stroke. If your hips have to swivel in order to reach the bottom of the pedal
stroke, your seat is probably too high.
Knee pain is quite often caused by improper seat height. Pain in the inner or
front portion of the knees is generally caused by riding with the seat too low.
Pain in the outside of the knee is generally caused by riding with the seat too
high. Handlebars should be placed level with, or at most an inch lower than, the
height of the saddle; try different adjustments to determine what works best for
you. As you make adjust-ments to seat height, make them in one centimeter
increments, and ride at that height for at least 50 miles to let your body
adjust to the new height.
Cadence and Gearing
The system of gears on multi-speed bicycles lets you choose different pedaling
rates, or cadences. Spinning in a gear that is too low is tiring and makes for a
choppy ride; pushing a gear that is too high (a common error) is a primary cause
of knee problems and the major reason people must stop cycling on a tour. Any
time you feel the slightest twinge of pain in your knees, stop riding. Check
saddle height, and position to see if an improper adjustment is causing strain
on your knees. When you resume riding, check your cadence. Skillful cyclists use
a brisk steady cadence of 70 - 90 revolutions per minute, using the various
gears to maintain a constant cadence over varying terrain.
Riding skills
Find a painted straight line in a parking lot and follow it as closely as you
can. Practice looking behind you; the bike will tend to veer to one side as you
turn your head. Practice until you can look back without veering to either side.
A rearview mirror attached to your helmet or your handlebars will make checking
behind you easier and safer.
Don't make abrupt steering movements, especially on downhills or on slippery
surfaces, or your tires may lose traction. Avoid pedaling when you're leaning
into a turn; your pedal or toe clip could catch on the pavement and cause you to
fall. Hold the pedal which is on the outside of the turn in the down, or 6
o'clock position.
Braking and Emergencies
A cardinal rule of bicycling is to brake before you must, especially on curves
and downhills. Brake just before going into a curve; then, if you need to slow
down more, brake gently with the rear brake while in the curve. Always apply
brakes gradually. Never slam on just the front brake, or you'll fly over the
handlebars!
Use special caution on downhills. A bicycle can accelerate rapidly, and rocks,
loose gravel, vehicles, railroad tracks, and cattle guards can appear quickly
when you're moving at 30 to 40 miles-per-hour. Brake in a rhythmic
on-again-off-again pattern, squeezing the brake handles firmly for a few seconds
and then releasing them for a few seconds. Continuous braking will glaze the
surface of the brake pads and result in loss of stopping power. Additionally,
continuous downhill braking can heat your rims to the point that tires can
become hot enough to lose their seal with the rim, ensuring a blowout!
Practice emergency braking. This entails three motions performed simultaneously:
1) shifting your weight toward the rear of the saddle, while 2) moving your
hands onto the brake handles, and 3) applying firm, even, pressure to both
brakes.
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2008 Calendar of Bicycling Events throughout Arizona
(Dates and Events are listed with the information available at time of printing.
Some dates may change, and some events may be deleted or added later on.)
JANUARY 2008
Jan. 1 (Tue): NEW YEAR'S DAY "I Hate Football" Ride. C/2/35 Rich Corbett,
kc7ovm@dakotacom.net. or 623-0017. Meet at Udall Park, east end of parking lot,
at 9 AM for a ride to Saguaro National Park East. Return via Freeman Rd.
Optional lunch at Eclectic Cafe after the ride.
Jan. 1(Tue): NEW YEAR'S DAY "I Hate Football" Ride. C+& B/2/45 Scott & Peggy
Jacobsen, 791-3049 or pjtucson@earthlink.net. Meet at Old Tucson Studios for a
ride to Avra Valley. Return via Saguaro National Park West and McCain Loop.
Jan. 6 (Sun): CASA GRANDE CENTURY. PMBC. Options for 100, 62 or 34 miles. Ride
from Chandler to Casa Grande for lunch and back. Jane Larson, jlreports@aol.com.
Jan. 19 ? (Sat): SENIOR OLYMPICS - CYCLING EVENTS. TUCSON PARKS & REC. For info,
visit www.tucsonseniorgames.org or call 791-5914. Participants ranging in age
from 50 and above. Cycling events include a 1-mile time trial, 5K-time trial,
10K-road race, and 20K-road race. Volunteers needed!
FEBRUARY 2008
Feb. 10 (Sun): PICACHO CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Options for 100, 65, 35 & 15 miles.
Flat course north of Tucson with meandering in Avra Valley. Turn-around point at
Picacho Peak. Ride Organizer: Jill Hewins 275-4759, centuries@bikegaba.org.
Feb. 10 ? (Sun): LAVEEN COUNTRY CHALLENGE. Starts and ends at Laveen Elementary
School, 51st Ave & Dobbins Rd. in Laveen AZ. For more info, check their website
at: www.lensenet.com
Feb. 16 (Sat): 24 HOURS IN THE OLD PUEBLO. For more info, contact Todd Sadow at
www.epicrides.com
Feb. 23 & 24 ?: AZ SENIOR OLYMPICS, PHOENIX. Cycling Events. State Competitions.
602-261-8765 or www.seniorgames.org
MARCH 2008
Mar. 1 ? (Sat): LE GRANDE TOUR XX (in Casa Grande). AZ Parks & Rec. 800-335-PARK
or www.azpra.org CANCELLED FOR 2008.
Mar. 2 (Sun): START OF THE TTM TRAINING RIDES. GABA-Tucson. Ride Leader: Rich
Corbett, kc7ovm@dakotacom.net.
Mar. ? : GILA VALLEY TOUR. ABC. www.azbikeclub.com
Mar. ? (Sat): MINING COUNTRY CENTURY. PMBC. For info, www.sportsfun.com or Kathy
Mills, 480-759-7675.
Mar. 9 (Sat): TOUR DE CURE - TUCSON. Benefits the American Diabetes Association.
For info, 795-3711 x 7112 or www.diabetes.org/tour.
Mar. 16 (Sun): SIERRA VISTA BICYCLE CLASSIC. GABA-Tucson. NEW EVENT THIS YEAR. 3
options; the longest will include the Mule Pass Climb! LEADERS: Larry Robinson
and Linda Kurick, 237-5792 or lin_kur@msn.com.
Mar. ? (Sun): AROUND THE WHITE TANKS. GABA West Valley. Betsy Turner, BetTur@qwest.net.
Mar. 28-30 TUCSON BICYCLE CLASSIC STAGE RACE. TBC. Ride Organizer: Steve Bohn,
(520) 884-5564, or snsbohn@cox.net or www.tucsonbicycleclassic.com.
Mar. 29 & 30: MS ROUND UP RIDE. Formerly MS150 Best Dam Ride. Start/Finish:
Heritage Pk, Florence. Options: 35, 75, 100 & 150 miles. For info and to
register: http://bikeaza.nationalMSsociety.org or 800-344-4867. Fund raiser for
MS.
Mar 29 & 30: TOUR DE RIO SONORA. On Saturday, a bus takes riders from Phoenix or
Tucson to the mining town of Cananea (south of Naco.) Cycle 60 miles, escorted
by police, through small villages up to Arizpe for a catered dinner. Spend the
night at the Casa de Cultural. On Sunday, after a light breakfast, cycle 40
miles of rolling hills through unique pueblitos, ending with “aguas calientes”
(thermal spring pool) and a barbecue. www.nomoredeaths.org or Silverio Ontiveros,
602-330-3620 / sontiveros424@msn.com
APRIL 2008
April 5 (Sat): EL TOUR DE PHOENIX XVII Organized by PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com
April ? (Sat): DESERT CLASSIC. ABC. Richard Utterback. www.azbikeclub.com
April ? (Sat): BIKE SWAP - Phoenix. Phoenix Municipal Stadium, 6 AM-1 PM. CAzB.
www.cazbike.com.
April 12 & 13: SONOITA-BISBEE BIKE TOUR. GABA-Tucson. Suzanne Couvrette,
Update-editor@bikegaba.org. 69 miles each day, or New this year: option for a
shorter 45 miles a day. Sonoita to Bisbee and back the next day via backroads
around the Huachuca Mountains. Rolling terrain, a few good hills. Great dinner
at the Copper Queen Hotel in Bisbee on Saturday night.
Apr. 20 (SUN): EL BIKE SWAP DE TUCSON. GABA-Tucson On 4th Avenue, 8 AM-1 PM.
Free to all. Organizer: Greg Yares, 323-9020, or swapmeet@bikegaba.org In
conjunction with City of Tucson Clean Air Fair Events.
April 26 (Sat): THE WHISKEY OFF ROAD In Prescott. 15, 25 & 50 miles. Benefits
Yavapai County Food Bank. www.epicrides.com
Apr. ?: LA VUELTA DE BISBEE.
April ? : ANSWER TO THE CHALLENGE. PMBC. www.sportsfun.com/gaba
April 26 & 27: TRIANGLE L RANCH OVERNIGHTER. GABA-Tucson. 58 miles each day.
Gradual gentle climb on first day and gentle gradual descent on 2nd day. Fee
includes accommodations, breakfast & dinner, and happy hour with slide show.
Ride Organizer: Cathy Crandall, catcran@cox.net.
April 27 (Sun): TTM XXI - TOUR OF THE TUCSON MOUNTAINS. PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com.
MAY 2008
May 3 & 4: SALT RIVER CANYON TOUR. GABA-Tucson. www.bikegaba.org. Globe to show
Low and back the next day. Great scenery, major climbs for experienced riders.
Leader TBA.
May 9 (Fri): Mt Lemmon Hill Climb. GABA-Tucson. Small fee to cover sag support.
Lunch in Summerhaven.
May 24-26: 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.
JUNE 2008
June 1 (Sun): MT HOPKINS HILLCLIMB MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE. GABA-Tucson. Tom Ward.
www.bikegaba.org Mt Hopkins is a 9,000 foot peak south of Green Valley. Mix of
dirt and paved roads.
June 14 & 15: ESCAPE TO THE HIGH COUNTRY. NEW THIS YEAR! Several options:
something for everyone! Overnight in Flagstaff. Suzanne Couvrette,(520) 891-4661
or update-editor@ bikegaba.org.
June ?: GRAND CANYON TOUR. ABC – www.azbikeclub.com.
JULY 2008
July 4 (Fri): TOUR FOR TUCSON’S CHILDREN. City of Tucson Parks & Rec. Lisa or
Jesus at 791-4969, or contact Lisa.Sommer@tucsonaz.gov.
July ? : DAVE FREUND MEMORIAL WHITE MOUNTAIN TOUR. PMBC. Show Low to
Springerville via Vernon on the 1st day; Springerville back to Show Low via
Sunrise on the 2nd day. www.sportsfun.com
July ?: TAYLOR HOUSE BENEFIT CENTURY. Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff.
www.absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html
AUGUST 2008
Aug. ?: FLAGSTAFF MOUNTAIN BIKE FESTIVAL. Absolute Bikes in Flagstaff.
www.absolutebikes.net/flag_frset.html
SEPTEMBER 2008
Aug. 30 & 31 and Sept. 1`: THE BLUE LOOP. GABA-Tucson. Morenci to Glenwood, NM;
Glenwood to Alpine, AZ; and Alpine back to Morenci via the famous "Coronado
Trail". www.bikegaba.org Very scenic ride, but demanding and challenging terrain
for experienced riders.
Sept. ? : GILA INNER LOOP. Starting in Silver City, New Mexico. Contact
twinsisters@gilanet.com
Sept. 7 (Sun): OPENING DAY OF “EL TOUR” TRAINING RIDES. GABA-Tucson.
www.bikegaba.org.
Sept. 14 ? (Sun): 3RD ANNUAL JERRY DOSS MEMORIAL LOOP CHALLENGE. Possible 3
options: 96-mile Challenge, 54-mile Loop and a 8-12 Fun Ride. Contact: Karen
Warrick, Prescott Cycling Club Secretary & Newsletter Coordinator, 928-713-9811
or kwarrick@cableone.net.
Sept. 28-Oct. 5: GREAT ARIZONA BICYCLE ADVENTURE. 27th Annual. Grand Canyon to
the Mexican Border. Camping/motel 500+ miles across Arizona from north to south.
www.bikegaba.org
OCTOBER 2008
Oct. ? (Sat) SHOW LOW BLUFF MOUNTAIN BIKE RIDE. Mountain bike event in the
Pinetop-Lakeside area. 10-66 mile single day endurance. Benefits Navapache
Regional Medical Center. epicrides.com.
Oct. 11 (Sat): COCHISE COUNTY CLASSIC XX. Organized by PBAA.
www.perimeterbicycling.com
Oct. ? (Sat) : MEMORIAL RIDE FOR SAFETY. In Phoenix. PMBC for CAzB.
www.sportsfun.com
Oct. ? (Sun): HEART OF ARIZONA CENTURY. GABA-West Valley, Bullshifters, & ABC.
www.sportsfun.com
Oct. 18 & 19: CAVE CREEK OVERNIGHT RIDE. GABA-Tucson. On east side of the
Chiricahua Mountains, from Road Forks, NM to Portal, AZ. www.bikegaba.org.
Oct. 26 (Sun): GENE CHAPMAN MEMORIAL TUMACACORI CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Most
options start in Sahuarita, south of Tucson, and go to the well-known Tumacacori
Mission. 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 2008
Nov. ?: MS 150. Multiple Sclerosis Society. http://ms150.dsw.nmss.org
Nov. 9 (Sun): SILVERBELL CENTURY. GABA-Tucson. Options for 60 or 100 miles
Scenic course west of Tucson. Last century to train for El Tour!
www.bikegaba.org.
Nov. ? (Sat): McDOWELL CENTURY. ABC. Options for a metric century and a
half-metric century as well. www.azbikeclub.com
Nov. 15 (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. 22 (Sat): EL TOUR DE TUCSON XXV. PBAA. 25th annual. Counterclockwise course
again this year! 4 different options! More than 8,000 riders! Lots of sag stops
along the course, as well as thousands of volunteers to make your experience a
pleasant one! For info, (520) 745-2033 or visit www.perimeterbicycling.com
DECEMBER 2008
Dec. 1 (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! www.bikegaba.org
Dec. 6 (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
Dec. 7 (Sun): TUMACACORI FESTIVAL RIDE. GABA-Tucson. 30-40 miles to breakfast at
Zula's in Nogales. Start from the Tumacacori Mission and return to enjoy food,
craft & entertainment. For Mission info, call the Tumacacori National Historical
Park at (520) 398-2341. www.bikegaba.org
Top of Page
Buying Motivation!
By John Arle,
Reprinted from the Tailwind Times, GABA Phoenix Newsletter, April 2004
Motivation can be found in the darnedest places sometimes. I can't tell you how
often I've spoken with fellow riders at Saturday Cycling all jacked up about
their new bike and putting in a ton of miles as a result. OK... those of you
that know me also know I was one of them this past summer when I returned from
Oregon with a new bike Friday. I plead "guilty", your honor!
My point is quite simple. We can actually buy motivation. You won't find it
directly on the shelf, or rack, or in a magazine. You will find it, however,
actually hidden in the fabric of that really cool jersey or that hot pair of
bibs. Heck, I've even found some motivation hidden in an inexpensive pair of
socks. There's no mystery here. We all like new stuff and it makes what we do
for recreation just a little more fun.
Your local shop has a ton of stuff to bring a little new life to your game. A
couple years ago I started two collections around my cycling. I collect both
socks and water bottles. Both are functional and relatively cheap. And just a
little tip, in the summer you can use an old pair of socks (or one that lost its
make in the wash - whatever happens to those things, anyway) on your water
bottles for insulation, too. It's cheaper than a Polar bottle and almost as
effective!!
But I digress. Don't we all browse through the magazines looking at what we'd
like. Well, if it's been a while since you stuck a crowbar in your wallet and
pried a few bucks out for a purchase, consider treating yourself and bringing a
little new life to your ride. A tank of gas runs more than $20 and how long is
that going to last you? You don't even think twice about that expense. So, do
the same with your riding but you'll end up actually enjoying some new threads,
a new toy, or maybe a new lid.
If you're feeling a little droopy, just drop by your local shop and see if you
don't find something to re-energize your riding. Just do me one favor, don't
tell your significant other it was my idea, ok? You're on your own, big dog!!
:-)
Top of Page
As I sit here staring at an empty screen, I realize that it's not only way past
the newsletter deadline (sorry Melinda) but well past my bedtime, too. I've
started and abandoned at least a dozen attempts at this column, and still
haven't hit on anything that feels right. It is difficult to put into words what
I'm feeling as the New Year starts, but if I have to (and apparently I do have
to, since Suzanne assures me that blank screens don't reproduce well in the
newsletter), I'd say I'm mostly feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude.
First, I'm grateful for GABA itself. What started as a small group of cycling
enthusiasts 26 years ago has become one of the premier cycling clubs in the
southwest, and is, I believe, one of the reasons Tucson is a great place to
ride.
I'm grateful for all of the other reasons that Tucson is a great place to ride,
too: the numerous local bicycle clubs and teams who provide a steady stream of
opportunities for people to ride; El Tour de Tucson and all the other events
that the Perimeter Bicycling Association organizes; the programs to support
cycling safety and our right use the roads; BICAS, which helps make cycling
accessible to everyone; and even (or maybe especially) the individuals who
devote their time to doing all of the little things that make a difference -
writing letters, calling in potholes, encouraging their friends to ride whether
it's to work or the coffee shop, and generally volunteering their time.
And speaking of people volunteering their time, I'm profoundly grateful for the
people who have agreed to serve on the GABA Board of Directors with me while I
muddle through the next year as president. I suspect you'll be making my job so
easy we'll be wondering why we have a president at all.
Top of Page
Due to some pretty nasty weather the Toys for Tots Ride was rescheduled for one
full week from December 8th to the 15th. The rides departed from Udall Park (led
by Tony Everett and Judy Bolt), and from McCormick Park (led by Rudy & Kay Van
Rhenterghem and Wayne & Pam Cullop), on a chilly, but sunny Saturday morning.
The news of the delay was posted on GABA’s website, but still the rider-count
from Udall was lower than usual – darn that wet storm anyhow! Riders from
McCormick must have gotten the news through the e-mail I sent out to every rider
in my personal contact list, as there were 27 of us, all together! No matter
totals, we all had a grand time! We had several first-time group riders on the
family ride, and all finished with that feeling of accomplishment that we have
all experienced at one time or another!
Once at the zoo, we were all treated to bagels and pastries, compliments of the
Snack Shop manager, Hugh. What a pleasant surprise that was!!! With the reported
toy donations being down this year, the folks at the zoo were quite happy to see
so many of us arrive. Lots of people brought extra toys (only one needed for
admittance), which put big grins on the faces of those who opened the BIG Toy
Box for us to place them in.
As has become the custom of some, after enjoying a bit of time near the snack
shop sipping hot coffee and munching on bagels, we took a quick stroll to see
some of the animals. I am happy to say that the male tiger that recently died
was, that morning, enjoying a tasty (and rather large) bone!
By the time Wayne and I decided to leave, many had gone ahead of us; it was just
too nice a morning at the zoo to leave that quickly…if you ask me!!!
Next year we hope that the weather will behave itself on Toys for Tots Ride day.
If history repeats itself though, please check our website: www.bikegaba.org for
postponement information. Ride photos will soon be posted for those who would
like to see what fun we had, and that you too can have on the ride next
December!
Top of Page
Perry Abbott, Karl Anderson, Jay and Jane Appleby, Fritz Brace, Carolyn Burchett
and Gary George, Mike and Susan Burdick, John Campbell, Ken and Carol Cantor,
Lorenzo Clark, Nelson Crynyn and Judith Keller, Jeannie Darnall, Henry Deutsch,
Carolyn and Eric Erdman, Bill Faris, Doug and Marilyn Fraser, Ronald Fullerton,
Linda Gelpke, Andrea Hamblin and Michael Dorr, Kete and Dave Hansen, Jim and Deb
Hilbert, Marla Husz, David Johnson, John Kelley, Sally and Andrew Krusing, Linda
and Jp Leon, Janet Mitchell, Wayne Moore, Jeff Northcutt, Mark Ramsour, Anthony
Rizzalasa, Wesley Roghermel, Cherry Rosenberg, B.J. and Judith Segal, Mark
Stinski, Julie Stringer, John and Jackie Thames, Meg Weesner