The Hub Archive - 2003

January 26 Spin Cycle Report

Added January 30, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 21 riders today enjoying the sun of Arizona (wow, has it been nice or what). Let's see, things got started off with Ron doing a little strip in the parking lot (i.e., he rode to the park, so decided to get rid of some un-wanted clothes). While in the process, there was a little hooting and hollering and Ron's Banana slipped out (that would be his Banana peel). Let me just say that there was a little bit more harassing going on about that Banana, but you'll have to ask Ron for any details...

Our pack was joined by a visitor from Colorado, glad you could make it Bruce, hopefully you enjoyed the ride. The group decided on 20-21 for the day, but Roger and Jim decided that wasn't fast enough. Most of us regrouped at Higley, and then made our way to breakfast. Going down Guadalupe was fun, with a little tail wind, we got speeds up to 34 (ok, it was only for 10 seconds, but a pull is a pull). Breakfast at the Ripe Tomato was great, with the waitress giving Randy and Paul a hard time about being swingers (don't ask me, I'm just the reporter)...

Back on our bikes, we went just about a mile and Randy flatted. While he started changing his flat, I decided we would have a new contest, flat changing. So I timed Randy, and he did it in 6:03, a new world record for the rear wheel....We'll have a new record for the front tire once it happens. During this little episode, a small little bee (actually, it was huge, but don't tell him) decided to visit New York Paul. Paul, on the other hand, was not interested in a visit, and started moving like we never seen before and quite frankly, don't want to see again. Roger decided to put Paul out of his misery and picked the bee off of him. After that, Paul was designated the puller, since he didn't want to stop. With a little (ok a lot) harassing from the group, Paul actually didn't have anything to say, except with his hand, actually it was one finger. However, he was speechless, write this down in your journal...

Ok, my harassing is over, have a good super bowl, go Bucs...

Next Ride

2/1 - 8:00 AM Start time - Harrah's Turnaround. Out to Harrah's Casino and back. All pretty flat one mileage option of 45 miles. Breakfast at Harrah's casino.

I'll give a list of rides for February next week. Let me know if your interested in anything specific.

glen

 

January 25 Saturday Cycling Report

Added January 30, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Thanks to Mr. President (Bob Beane) for leading the pack Saturday. He reports we had 70 riders turn out, including Shawn Carnahan (a recent transplant from the "land of Lance", aka Texas) and a tandem duo of Bruce and Lois Thompson, who visited us from Castle Rock, CO (southern edge of the Denver metro area). Something unusual happened, in that many of the riders actually rode the designated route through the Foothills!! Payton's Place opened early, gave a choice of either breakfast OR lunch menu, set up a separate section for seating and allowed bikes storage on the back patio. About half the riders stopped there for fuel to get home. Cool place!

Coming up...

Saturday 2/1/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!!We head to South Mountain, mileage options of 25 miles with gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles and climb big time. Breakfast at 5 & Diner, on Priest northwest of Baseline.

Saturday 2/8/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Just to make sure the head wind is still there, we'll go check out the McKellips Loop. Mileage options 28 miles or 37 miles, both with a little gentle climbing. Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe, northwest of Alma School and Guadalupe.

Saturday 2/15/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. A loop to the southeast by way of Lindsay with options of 26 miles or 36 miles, no climbing. We continue our attempt to eat another place out of business by breakfasting at Home Town Buffet, northwest corner Warner and Evergreen.

Tid bits...

Marty Coplea advises the following:

On April 5th and 6th 2003 at McDowell Mountain Park, Fountain Hills AZ, the next "24 Hours of Adrenalin" will be held. This is the fastest growing mountain bike event series in North America. Last year, over 10,000 participants, warriors and novices alike, united to ride in the electrifying event. The ride is a massive relay, where solo riders or teams of up to ten people compete to ride as many laps as possible in a 24 hour time frame. The event has been designed to accommodate all skill levels. More info and race registration at http://www.24hoursofadrenalin.com.

Mike Morross, ride leader for our Sunday morning Kokopedalli group advises they are moving their start point. After being based at Southern and Power for the last 100 years or so, they are moving up the street a mile north. They will now start from the Arizona Golf Resort, southeast of Broadway and Power. If you have never pedaled with Mike's gang, it's a great way to see some beautiful parts of the valley that we don't get out to on Saturday mornings.

In about April of this year, all of your friends on Saturday morning are going to be proudly wearing their beautiful new PMBC club jerseys. You will be heart broken cuz you forgot to order yours before the deadline on February 14th! Go to the website now! Place your order. We can't stand to see cyclists cry.

Ride safe.

 

January 19 Spin Cycle Report

Added January 19, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Sixteen riders made their way to the "original Mummy Mountain" today, with a few a little later than others. You know who you are, and if not, let me point out Ron, Carter, and Judy!!!! Harlan got the first and only flat of the day, he thought he was going to jinx us, but we didn't fall for that routine again...

Overall, we were pretty well mannered today, having several regroups and potty breaks. We even had Jeremy Longstreet join us today from a long hiatus, welcome back....Oh yea, we did ride a little around that silly mountain, and no one got lost. Not sure who won the hill as I was too busy trying to get oxygen, but assuming it was Gary. Our Lunch was at Pete's at Ken McDonald Golf course. Although no one got beer (Ron, we needed a little push to go over the edge), most enjoyed some sort of healthy eats.

Rides coming up...

1/26 8:30 AM Last week of sleeping in....Germannalupe - Ride to Germann and then to Guadalupe. Mileage of 33 or 42 miles all flat. Breakfast/brunch at Ripe Tomatoes.

2/1 - 8:00 AM Start time - Harrah's Turnaround. Out to Harrah's Casino and back. All pretty flat one mileage option of 45 miles. Breakfast at Harrah's casino.

Cycling Tip:

Keep your head up while in the pace line, don't look down or back. Don't stare at the tire in front of you, look ahead and watch the other riders in the group occasionally. That way you are aware of what is happening in the paceline and not get mesmerized by the back tire of the person in front of you.....

see ya...

glen

 

January 18 Saturday Cycling Report

Added January 18, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Apparently people are taking their new year's resolutions seriously! We had a bunch of new riders amongst our pack of 64 this morning. Thanks to all who helped out with getting the newbies ready to ride. Combining that with having a reporter and photographer from the AZ Republic wandering about the parking lot, gave us a bit of a late start, but we eventually got under way. The pack set a land speed record negotiating the course. Fast riding is sometimes a good thing, but not when it gets us to the food stop before it has even opened! Creative as cyclists usually are, many opted for pre-lunch coffee from Bigbucks, er, that is, Starbucks and then chowed on chinese offerings from Pick Up Stix. (Our apologies to Buddy, who anticipated our stop as a "sticks" place, as in pool hall. Maybe next time, Bud.)

Coming up...

Saturday 1/25/03 8:30am Kiwanis Park. Revel in our last morning of sleeping in! Bob Beane leads the pack to Ahwatukee for the traditional wandering aboot amid the hills. Various mileage and climbing (or not) options. Brunch/lunch will be at Payton's, northwest corner Chandler Blvd & 40th St (behind the Walgreens). Bob is in tight with these folks and they are opening early just to accommodate our gang, so we need a strong turn out for the feed stop. Sandwiches, burgers, traditional sports bar fare.

Saturday 2/1/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! We have a lot of newer riders that have not checked out South Mountain with us, so of course we must show them how it's done! Options of 25 miles with gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles and climb big time. Breakfast at 5 & Diner, on Priest northwest of Baseline.

Saturday 2/8/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. We head out on the McKellips Loop. Mileage options 28 miles or 37 miles, both with a little gentle climbing. Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe, northwest of Alma School and Guadalupe.

Tid bits...

If you participated in the Casa Grande ride last weekend, there was a firm out taking photos of riders. You can view those pics (and purchase copies if you want) at www.photocrazy.com.

And last, to answer the question that was raised at the end of today's ride-- the Laveen Country Challenge is being held on Sunday 2/9/03 this year. If you are not familiar with that ride, it's good one. Check your local bike shop for flyers.

Ride safe.

 

Casa Grande Century Photos Available

Added January 14, 2003

An event photographer was a special addition to this year's Casa Grande Century. Photo Crazy had automatic and manned cameras systems on the course. Many riders were captured 2 or 3 times during the ride. Visit Photo Crazy's Casa Grande Century Photos page to see if you were captured on film.

 

January 11 Saturday Cycling Report

Added January 12, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

63 riders seems to be our theme this month, with the same number turning out for today's Mummy ride as we had last week. Some of the express train took the kinder, gentler version of the route-- telling us they were saving up for tomorrow's first century ride of the year. Ron Iverson spent another ride practicing his tire changing skills while the rest of us enjoyed the scenic cruise by the modest (?) homes on the back side of the mountain. We experienced one of those Arizona things-- eating lunch out doors on the patio at Joe's-- and had a grand time.

Coming up...

Saturday 1/18/03 8:30am Kiwanis Park. A loop to the southeast on either McQueen or Val Vista. Mileage options 25 miles or 36 miles, no climbing. Eats at Pick Up Stix, northwest of McClintock and Ray.

Saturday 1/25/03 8:30am Kiwanis Park. Off we go to the Ahwatukee Foothills. Mileage and climbing options vary. On the way back to the park we will stop and eat somewhere. Details might or might not follow.

Saturday 2/1/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! We start shifting (pun intended) our start time back in anticipation of spring (yeah!). Jack Graham has requested that on this date we make a pilgrimage to the towers at South Mountain, so there we must go. Our adventure there offers 28 miles with some gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles (going with Jack) with lotsa climbing to the TV Towers. Breakfast is 5&Diner on Priest, northwest of Baseline.

Tid bits...

Since almost our entire club is signed up for the Casa Grande ride, we'll see most of you tomorrow. As mentioned last week, Mike Morross will be leading out a line from the start point at 9:00am, doing the 108 mile route, with pace of 20mph. Bob Beane has stepped up and offered to lead an alternate line, doing the 62 mile route, with pace of 16 to 18mph. His train will be leaving the station at about 9:05am (just after Mike's snarling, slathering pack departs). All riders are welcome to hop in to either group, or blow them both off and just do the ride at your own pace and have a good time!

Ride safe.

 

Bicycle Security Marshals Ride Again!

Added January 9, 2003

by Brent Stewart

It was a crisp (but dry) Tuesday morning on December 31st that 75 volunteers from ABC, GABA and the Bullshifters showed up at O dark:30 to assist uniformed police in maintaining order in the staging and de-staging areas of the Fiesta Bowl Parade. They came from as far as Tucson, Casa Grande, Kingman and Prescott.

The level of security this year exceeded even the prior years' (first parade after 9/11), with almost double the number of uniformed officers on 2 wheeled steel steeds of one persuasion or another (cycles & bicycles). Even horse mounted got into the picture (at least bicycles don't leave that ... stuff!).

This year the volunteers were called upon not only the manage the spectators, but also "give direction" to many of the parade participants and directors. It must have been the breakfast burritos (cooked fresh on the spot) and hot coffee that sustained everyone through the day. Not a lot of miles in 7 hours (15 to 20), but a lot of satisfaction in showing spectators that "bicyclists" can ride in a safe and orderly manner. It's amazing how much area 75 people on bicycles can cover in providing "the word".

A special thanks to all riders and those volunteers that managed the individual zones. Good news is that Richard Moeur has volunteered to manage the effort next year, we all know he is capable and will do a great job. I am thankful the it will be a bicyclist managing the effort as I retire to a role of mere participant after 15 years.

 

Letter of Thanks from "Tennessee Todd"

Added January 7, 2003

letter from Todd Shuey

To All,

I just wanted to thank all those involved with this bike group for the wonderful reception you gave me on my winter vacation. Sue, for corresponding with me via email to get me started, Bob, for taking me under his wing on the 12-28 and 12-29, "Horse" (I never caught your real name), for leading the pack on the last leg around South Mountain, Bill, for riding a more brisk pace on the Sunday Greenway ride, for the recumbent riders, and tandems that made the rides more interesting. I didn't get many names of those of you I met, but I truly appreciate the hospitality given to me last week.

This was "baptism" into group riding, and I will endeavor to make this club known to those I meet in my travels in the East. Hopefully, you'll get more "vacationers" like me who will inspire those who may think of giving up the ride.

A few of you may have seen me taking a few pictures on the two weekend rides. I'll be getting pictures developed, and will forward them on to the club for posterity.

Thanks again to everyone. I hope to see some of you again, if I can once again find my way out to Phoenix.......

"Tennessee Todd" Shuey

 

January 5 Spin Cycle Report

Added January 5, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 20 riders enjoy the perfect January weather this morning, along with the 8:30 am start time, with no complaints on the start time. Overall, a very good ride, but I would have to say we put on a tire changing clinic today. Let's see, looks like Brenda and Henry started it out with a flat on the way to the Park. Then Ron decided that he would change 2 today or was that 3 (I guess the 2 from yesterday wasn't enough), and then a member of the "I want more miles group" had another. Geez!!!!! Dave gets the Boy Scout award for having a spare tire (that is a tire, not a tube) for Ron, which by the way did nothing to stop the last flat Ron got. Oh well, guess Ron needs to get a new bike.....:-)

For the most part, the group stayed pretty calm, except when Roger took the lead and broke the group up. Oh well, I can pick on him since he doesn't have email. I won the one and only sprint, even though it wasn't marked, no one knew about it, and by the looks of the group chasing me (that would be zero) no one cared!! Oh well, a win is a win.....

Breakfast at Wildflower was great, including the view out on the patio (that was for you Chad, and yes Carter, you missed it!). On a side bar note, it has been confirmed that John Arle was spotted on his bike this week. While the 12 miles left him winded and sore (on the back side that is), he is GRADUALLY starting to come back. Hope to see you soon.

Ride Schedule

1/12 Ride - Sunday Spin Cycle will be supporting our club ride (GABA Phoenix Metro) and do the Casa Grande Century in lieu of a regular ride. The terrain is flat, the roads have low traffic and the temperature is guaranteed to be cool. Enjoy a picnic lunch in Casa Grande before the return trip. If you haven't done a century before this is a great first century. Three ride options will be available, 108 miles, 85 miles and 62 miles. Registration starts at 8:30 to 9:30 and there will be SAG stops along the way. The cost is $15 for members, and $20 for non-members, so another great reason to join GABA. I've attached a link with more details on the ride. I hope everyone can make it. Again, we will not ride out of Desert Breeze on Sunday 1/12, but starting at Alma School and Chandler Heights. We will have a group of us leaving at 9:00, so if you want to join in, be there at 8:30 to register. We will be maintaining a 20mph pace throughout. Casa Grande Century

1/19 - the original Mummy Mountain - ride to Scottsdale, with mileage options of 35-50 miles. 35 moderate climbing, 50 lots of short climbs. Breakfast at Pete's at Ken McDonald Golf Course (Rural just south Guadalupe).

1/26 - Germannalupe - Ride to Germann and then to Guadalupe. Mileage of 33 or 42 miles all flat. Breakfast/brunch at Ripe Tomatoes.

Misc

Here is a note from Jerry Stanley who rides with us on Sunday on occasion.

I am assisting South Mountain Cycles in putting teams together for the 24 Hours in The Old Pueblo and would like to get the word out to as many riders as possible. If you have had a chance to participate in this or any other 24 hour event, I am sure you are aware what a great time everyone has! We are especially in need of female participants, (as the most popular team format - 5 person co-ed) requires at least one female rider. The other teams (6-10 person) are seeking male and female participants.

For more information anyone interested can visit this link http://www.epicrides.com. I appreciate any "word spreading" you could do for me. We are hoping to have our teams organized by January 12th.

 

January 4 Saturday Cycling Report

Added January 4, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The pack voted with a strong turn out this morning that the 8:30am start is a good thing! We had 63 riders head out for a glorious Arizona "winter" day of riding. The chill at the start progressed to rapidly peeling layers as the miles went by. (Huh, Cory? We normally suggest that you leave at least one layer on.) We had a guest couple on a tandem who were visiting us from Montana, and they decided we live in paradise. We said this is true, but they must NOT go home and tell all their friends, else we will be mobbed by the entire state of Montana moving here! The brunch stop at Someburros was a grand success... management was so excited to see us that they sent out trays of complimentary desserts treats just to say thanks (now there is somebody that understands cyclists!)

Coming up...

Saturday 1/11/03 8:30am Kiwanis Park. We'll work up a appetite with a romp to or around Mummy Mountain. Mileage options 27 miles with some gentle climbing or 40 miles with moderate climbing. Lunch is Joe's Crab Shack on Southern, northeast of Dorsey-- excellent clam chowder, wraps, fish & seafood of all kinds... and a very entertaining staff!

Saturday 1/18/03 8:30am Kiwanis Park. A loop to the southeast on either McQueen or Val Vista. Mileage options 25 miles or 36 miles, no climbing. Lunch, in honor of Greg's recent journey to China, will be Pick Up Stix, northwest of McClintock and Ray. If you haven't checked this place out yet, you ought to! Yummy fresh made Chinese food of all kinds, great service, good prices-- our kinda place.

Saturday 1/25/03 8:30am Kiwanis Park. Time for another journey to the foothills of Ahwatukee. We'll ride that way, get everybody lost, regroup, then eat somewhere on the way back to the park. More details later.

Tid bits...

The 2003 cycling season is officially under way! Our group lays claim to hosting the first adventure of the year, with the Casa Grande ride on Sunday January 12th. We have a group of riders that is going to do the 108 mile distance together as a "team" and all are invited to hop in. Line leader will be our newly ex-prez Mike Morross. The plan is to leave the start point at 9am. (Registration opens at 8:30am, so get yourself there and be signed in ready to roll at 9:00am). Planned pace is a steady 20mph. People interested in hooking up with this gang and playing along should look for Mike near the registration area....red, white, and blue bike... PMBC jersey. If you don't know Mike, ask at registration and we'll point him out to you.

And speaking of teaming up, Bill Jacobson is looking for partners to tandem with him. If you have never done the duo thing, it's a quick learn and a blast to do. Bill says he goes both ways (?) and will ride front or back, your choice. Send him a note if you want to hook up.

Ride safe.

 

February 23 Spin Cycle Report

Added February 23, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Here is this weeks report, looks like we had 20 riders for the day, with two new riders (Eric and Rich). While I can vouch for the first part of the ride, Sue provided me details for the rest. We managed to keep together pretty well until the hills at Papago. Then the animals were turned loose and moved up the hill. Looks like Bob and I were neck and neck at the top, so a good tie. We made an impromptu stop at Arcadia Park for some relief (bathrooms)...

The rest is according to Sue....We managed to complete the rest of the route pretty uneventfully. Joni, Judy, and I took the long route but bypassed the honk up the steep hill thing, so I don't know who got King of the Hill-- but I did hear that David Stephan actually had to put a foot down to avoid falling over on the silly thing. As soon as the guys came down off the hill Eric the new guy had a flat, which we know was a direct cause resulting from him speaking poorly about the condition of his tires just before we left Desert Breeze this morning. Congrats, you get the dubious honor of flat head of the week. Sue upheld her traditional down hill sprint on 68th as we approached Curry (and as is tradition was passed like I was standing still by one of the guys). Breakfast at Pete's was excellent, the special of the day was green chili omelets, which several people thought went really well with their Heinekens (glad I wasn't there for the return trip or at least behind those riders). We returned to the park in reasonably good shape.

Thanks Sue....

Ride Schedule

Sunday 3/2 - 7:30 am - NOTE NEW TIME FOR MARCH - I've been asked to go to South Mountain and do some hills before it is too hot - so hills it is. Mileage options of 42 or 47 miles with slight to oh boy is this hill ever going to end....Breakfast at the Raven

Sunday 3/9 - 7:30 am The Milk Run....I found a new map. A ride of 40, 38, or 36 miles, all mostly flat. Out on 56th to Riggs, then to Hunt and either taking Cooper, Gilbert, or out to Greenfield. Breakfast at Wildflower at the mall.

 

February 22 Saturday Cycling Report

Added February 22, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Clear skies this morning brought 64 riders out to the park for our romp around Tempe. The dynamic duo of Tim Kjellberg and Tom Adams debuted on the longest bike that has ever graced our pack, a recumbent tandem. (Hey, Tim, how many cup holders does that thing have?) Riders tended to use the map for today as a route "suggestion" and forged their own version to follow, adding or subtracting hills as the mood struck. Most eventually found their way to the food stop, where the typical breakfast conversation ranged from how bacon ranks as a high-octane fuel source to Rich Heffern's secret life as a kick-boxing instructor. Never judge a book by it's cover.

Coming up...

Saturday 3/1/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! We head out on the Tour De Sue, with a loop down to either Queen Creek or Riggs. Mileage options 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Perkins, northwest of Chandler Blvd & 54th St.

Saturday 3/8/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. We head to Scottsdale, where our standard riders will get a beautiful tour of the homes along Exeter, while the advanced group will try not to get lost on Mummy Mountain. Route options 27 miles with some moderate climbing, or 40 miles with a little more climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, northwest of Mill & 11th.

Saturday 3/15/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. If you are not headed to the Mining Country Challenge in Superior, come join us for a tour of Lehi. (No, there is no comparable 6,000 foot climb on the Lehi route-- but you do have to go over the I-60 freeway overpass-- you could do that a buncha times if you wanted the climbing experience.) Route options 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at IHOP, southwest corner Apache & College.

Saturday 3/22/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. FREE FOOD!! 'nuff said. Stay tuned for details.

Tid bits...

And speaking of the Mining Country ride, Connie Wong sends the following:

"Help support the upcoming PMBC ride in Superior! We are looking for volunteers to help with the Mining Country Challenge on March 15th. This is a great ride to support, with beautiful scenery. We need help with manning the rest stops - it's a hilly ride, so volunteers handing out food and drinks will be very popular among the cyclists. If you want to help out with this year's ride, contact Connie Wong."

Last, in answer to a question asked almost weekly on Saturday mornings, yes, you DO need to sign in every time you come out to ride with us. If you are not a member of PMBC/GABA, you are signing a waiver/release form for that day's ride so your relatives will not hunt us down like dogs if you get hurt while out with us. If you are a member of our illustrious organization you are signing in for that day's adventures for insurance purposes (both medical insurance and liability insurance)-- if you don't sign in, you aren't covered by the association's insurance. Give us your autograph each week. That way we'll have lots of copies to sell when you finally win the Tour de France.

Ride safe.

 

February 16 Spin Cycle Report

Added February 16, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had eighteen riders enjoy the weather and the road today. Welcome David Manzer to the group....Let's see, to start, we talked about those tracks on Kyrene and Elliot before we left the parking lot, making sure everyone knew of the dangers. We got to the tracks, and believe it or not, someone may have been sleeping during my thrilling and all encompassing parking lot chat. That's ok, he was rudely awaken by the time he got there. Tracks are fine if anyone is asking...

The group decided to pick up the pace going down Guadalupe, with two groups forming. We made an impromptu rest stop and then we were off to Lehi. Sue was the Queen of the Down Hill Sprint while Gary took the climb up Horne w/Steve close behind. Me, I was blocked out, and that's my story and I'm sticking to it. Carter, on the other hand was the good corporate citizen, and stopped at the light (that's his story). We regrouped again and made our way to Breakfast. That is where the fun started, as Bob Culbertson had a flat (dime size hole in his tire). After replacing that tube (yes, I was timing him, but let's just say we didn't break any records), we were off again for a good 1/4 mile. Bob noticed the tire going flat again, so we stopped and found a different hole, so Randy was nice enough to lend him another tire (with patches I might add). We then discovered all the fun of using CO2 cartridges, with 3 being used before we were done. All said, I believe all 5 of us enjoyed some sort of assistance changing that tire - and we got it right.

The rest of the group was busy eating breakfast during this adventure, but I would be remiss in not to announce Bob as "Flat Head of the Week". Congratulations Bob, I know it is an honor... Let's see, breakfast conversation was the usual telling of stories and half truths. However, one comment does stand out from all the rest, and that coming from "quiet as a church mouse Sue", who announced that she would "stoke for anyone". While the rest of the restaurant didn't know how to take it, we all know she meant being a stoker on a tandem (right!!!!).

Ok, I'm done, enjoy the long weekend. Here is a special ride for tomorrow if you are interested at Kiwanis Park.

Monday 2/17/03 8:00 am Kiwanis Park. Join us for a holiday ride around South Mountain. Our version is a loop counterclockwise, one route, 43 miles, with three pit stops. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, southeast of Chandler Blvd & Rural.

Sunday 2/23 - 8:00 am Tour around Mummy - taking the new around Mummy Mountain route, mileage options of 35 or 40 miles, with several hills and one big one. Breakfast at some new place (I just need to find it and then I'll let you know). If you have an idea for a new place to eat, let me know...

Sunday 3/2 - 7:30 am - NOTE NEW TIME FOR MARCH - I've been asked to go to South Mountain and do some hills before it is too hot - so hills it is. Mileage options of 42 or 47 miles with slight to oh boy is this hill ever going to end....Breakfast at the Raven.

 

February 15 Saturday Cycling Report

Added February 15, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 46 riders decide it couldn't possibly rain two Saturday mornings in a row, and they were right! If you let the clouds scare you off this morning, you missed a beautiful day to be out on a bike. We managed to get the pack intact across the diagonal train track crossing at Elliot & Kyrene, even with the rails wet, without losing anybody. Some of the advanced riders being absent gave way to fresh legs in the lead pack plus a couple of other alternate lines working together doing a really good job of looking like the express train. Breakfast at the Hog Trough was the traditional excess of food and conversation. Will we ever run out of things to talk about at breakfast on Saturday??

Coming up...

Monday 2/17/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Join us for a holiday ride around South Mountain. Our version is a loop counterclockwise, one route, 43 miles, with three pit stops. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, southeast of Chandler Blvd & Rural.

Saturday 2/22/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. A beautiful route around north Tempe with some great views of the area, a climber's ride, with three climbs for both the standard and advanced routes (but we can show you how to cheat if you want to dodge some or all of them!) 26 miles or 36 miles. Breakfast at JB's, northeast of Southern & Dorsey.

Saturday 3/1/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! Spring is sproinging. We celebrate the warmer days by heading out on the open road, with a loop down to either Queen Creek or Riggs. Mileage options 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Perkins, northwest of Chandler Blvd & 54th St.

Tid bits...

The month of March brings a couple of great club adventures. Our next PMBC hosted ride takes place on Saturday March 15th, with the Mining Country Challenge. Start/finish is in Superior, with route options of either 96 miles or 66 miles. Pick up a registration flyer any Saturday morning or click here for more information.

The other date in March to tattoo on your brain is Saturday March 22nd. Why? Cuz that's the date of our next quarterly association ride/breakfast/meeting. And that means??? Free food!! If you haven't joined Phoenix Metro Bike Club yet, jump in by that date to take advantage of the free eats.

Ride safe.

 

February 9 Spin Cycle Report

Added February 15, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Twelve riders made their way out the door today, where were you? I'm assuming a good bunch was at the Laveen ride...We started at the parking lot watching Connie figure out what she was going to wear. Before we started, Tim wanted to share that he got another flat once he got home from last Sunday, so, he has been nominated "Flat Head of the Week" for two weeks in a row (4 flats in one day is deserving). All credit goes to Rob McClure for picking the name.

Let's see, nothing too exciting, a couple of sprints (wow, guess what, when that Gary guy isn't around I have a chance..). Neal was the rabbit for the day, catching him at the 56th street overpass. I'm going to give Harlan King of the Hill honors, while it was a very close call at the top, he pulled most of the way, so deserves the credit. Since we just wanted more miles, the group decided to go over and see the racers at the Honeywell Crit.

We made our way back to the park, with only 4 deciding for breakfast. Overall, a great day for riding. Short and sweet this week, I'm sore and need to go back to my couch....

RIDE SCHEDULE

2/16 - 8:00 am Tour de Lehi - See the thriving metropolis of Lehi and get in 35 or 40 miles, all mostly flat with a couple of sprint hills. Breakfast at Neighbors

2/23 - 8:00 am Tour around Mummy - taking the new around Mummy Mountain route, mileage options of 35 or 40 miles, with several hills and one big one. Breakfast at some new place (I just need to find it and then I'll let you know).

 

February 8 Saturday Cycling Report

Added February 8, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

And then there were 8. Hmm, actually that's the end of the story... maybe we should start at the beginning. Rain pounding on roofs over night and threatening skies this morning reduced our massive pack to a turn out of 26 riders at the park. The idea of slogging over wet roads, in the cold, reduced those who actually left the park to pedal with us to 21. A moderate but brief shower on the way to the first regroup convinced 4 more to head for home. So, we headed out on the route with 17 riders, who gradually dwindled down to 8 brave souls who appeared at the breakfast stop. Some wet thru, some reveling in the wonders of water proof clothing, all enjoying the warmth of being indoors and hot coffee already waiting on the table for us. Roger (of course) won the award for most creative rain gear by adorning his feet with his traditional plastic bags. Leo, who was riding stoker on a tandem, earned the nickname "MudFlap" and Carlos shared tips on how to get road gack out of your clothes when you wash them. The things you learn when you ride. Thanks to all who participated today. It was a grand adventure.

Coming up...

Saturday 2/15/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Remember how we thought we would take a cruise down Lindsay? Forget that. Sections of Lindsay look like a bomb went off on it. We're still headed to the Hog Trough for breakfast, we're just gonna come at from another direction. We're taking a loop down to Riggs Road, mileage options 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Food stop Home Town Buffet, northwest of Warner and Evergreen.

Monday 2/17/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. A holiday ride (if you don't have the day off, call in sick!!). We head out on Saturday Cycling's version of Round the Mountain. A loop counterclockwise around South Mountain. One route, 43 miles, with three pit stops. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, southeast of Chandler Blvd & Rural.

Saturday 2/22/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Somebody who missed our jaunt by the St. Francis Cemetery asked for a repeat that ride, so off we go. This one's a climber's ride, with three climbs for both the standard and advanced routes (but we can show you how to cheat if you want to dodge some or all of them!) 26 miles or 36 miles. Breakfast at JB's, northeast of Southern & Dorsey.

Tid bits...

Tomorrow, Sunday 2/9/03, you have a LOT of cycling opportunities. As always, we have our Sunday gang Spin Cycle heading out from Desert Breeze park at 8am. You also have the Laveen Country Challenge taking place in (duh) Laveen, which a whole bunch of our Saturday group is headed to. Or, if neither of those works for you, go WATCH some of your friends strut their stuff in the Honeywell Hungry Dog Criterium race in Ahwatukee. Location is north of Elliott & 51st Street. First race off is the Juniors at 8am, and then races run all day with the Pro's off at 2:30pm. PMBC (that's us) is sponsoring a couple of the women's races and our prez Bob Beane will be hosting a table at the race site, talking up our association. If you want to lend a hand, he could use some help and company through out the day.

Ride safe.

 

White Sands Missile Range to Host two Spring Bicycle Rides

Added February 6, 2003

Jim Eckles

Public Affairs Office

White Sands Missile Range

White Sands Missile Range is hosting two unusual bicycle rides this spring. The first will be a mountain bike ride to Hembrillo Battlefield on March 8. The second will be the range's "First Ever" Century road ride on April 12. They are NOT races.

The Hembrillo Battlefield is in the San Andres Mountains on the missile range and was the site of a clash between the Apache and U.S. Army in April of 1880. The Apache were led by Chief Victorio, while Capt. Henry Carroll led two companies of "Buffalo Soldiers" from the 9th Cavalry.

The route is essentially an out and back -- up Hembrillo Canyon and back. It covers mixed terrain but is mostly rough and rocky, two-track road with stretches of gravelly canyon bottom. The total ride distance is about 18 miles with an elevation gain of 1,100 feet.

At the end of the canyon there is a short walk on a trail up to an interpretive sign overlooking the main battlefield.

The March 8 ride will cost $25 per rider and the deadline for registration is Feb. 28 with NO day of event registration. The cost covers a shirt and lunch.

Because of the logistics of driving uprange at White Sands, the ride will be limited to the first 125 people to register.

The century ride on April 12 is actually a little more than 100 miles. In driving the route, range officials measured it at approximately 108 miles.

This ride will begin and end in the town of Tularosa. Participants will ride onto the missile range and ride a large loop on internal paved roads covering a large portion of the Tularosa Basin. It is estimated that there is less than 2,000 feet of elevation gain on the route.

One attraction for this ride will be the sparse traffic found inside the missile range. Except for government support vehicles, riders will see very few other trucks and cars.

Riders will check in between 7 and 8 a.m. at the start point and must be off White Sands by 6 p.m.

The cost will be $25 per participant with the registration deadline being April 4. There will be no day of event registration.

Each rider will receive a souvenir shirt. Water, energy drinks and fruit will be available at the 26, 50 and 79 mile points. Lunch will be provided at the midpoint.

For both rides no cameras or spectators will be allowed on the route. There are other stringent rules for riding on White Sands so participants are urged to read the appropriate flyer carefully.

Contact White Sands Outdoor Recreation at (505) 678-1713 for all forms or additional information. For information about the routes, contact Jim Eckles at (505) 678-1134.

 

February 2 Spin Cycle Report

Added February 2, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Eighteen riders decided it was a good day for a training ride, little did they know it was going to be two kinds of training - wind and flats. We made our way to Harrah's Casino today, and guess what, breakfast was actually the fastest thing out there today, and that's pretty incredible knowing Harrah's track record. On the way out, we had a head wind pretty much the whole way. Several groups formed, with all making it to Harrah's safe and sound. On the way back the pack was smaller (only in number, I think a couple of us grew during breakfast - except for Ron, but that is a different story), with a few wanting to get home before the wind really picked up. Our route back had a nasty side wind and just to make it interesting, Bruce from Colorado decided he wanted be the rabbit.

This is where our tale becomes a little interesting. On the way out, we had two flats (Zach and Dave). Just when we were about to catch Bruce the rabbit (that is his nickname now), Tim had a flat. This was his back tire, and I started the clock with our new record on the line, and believe it or not, he changed the rear tire in 3:31, with a regular pump I might add. So we were off, and about 2 miles later, Tim gets another flat, and Gary does too just so Tim doesn't feel lonely. This time Tim had a flat on the front tire, and since it is the one and only front tire I've clocked, he has the record for that tire as well, 3:15, again with a regular pump (it would have been faster, but his regular pump busted and he didn't want to use one of those wimpy CO2 cartridges so he borrowed Roger's pump). Ok, we were off again, chasing the rabbit, and Gary gets another flat (rear again, but he did find a nice little piece of wire). During this episode, Tim noticed his front tire going flat again, so decided to take off and beat the air (I believe you can inflate your tire going 120mph, but don't believe he got that fast). So we picked up Tim a little ways down the road trying to patch his front tire.

We were getting close to town, so Dave and I decided to chase the rabbit (wasn't sure if Bruce knew his way). Off we went, into the wind (can you hear us panting...). Just about to the park, we spot the rabbit, and as we were about to catch him, Dave gets a flat and yells to me, catch the rabbit, catch the rabbit...

Off like the wind (head wind that is), and on Rural and Galveston (1/2 mile from the park), I catch the rabbit (and yes, I was panting). So, did you add them up, 8 flats in one day. Hopefully none of the turnaround riders experienced any. Only thing I can say is Ron, on his new Carbon Giant did not get a flat (didn't I say, get a new bike and you don't get flats!!!!!). My new motto - If you flat, get a new bike - think I can get any kickbacks from the bike stores?

Ride Schedule

2/9 - Ohcotukee Loop - off to Ocotillo, down Queen Creek and then to Ahwatukee for some hills. Mileage options of 35 and 45 with moderate to a lot of hills. Breakfast at Good Egg.

2/16 - Tour de Lehi - See the thriving metropolis of Lehi and get in 35 or 40 miles, all mostly flat with a couple of sprint hills. Breakfast at Neighbors.

2/23 - Tour around Mummy - taking the new around Mummy Mountain route, mileage options of 35 or 40 miles, with several hills and one big one. Breakfast at some new place (I just need to find it and then I'll let you know)...

Lastly, Bruce the Rabbit gave this web address for any riders interested in "Ride the Rockies", http://www.ridetherockies.com/. He also said he would provide room and board and all the free beer you can drink (not really, but it sounded good...). :-)

 

Shifting Gears and Changing Lives

Added February 1, 2003

written by Marie Morrissey

Have you ever wondered how your talent as a bike enthusiast could be used to help low-income or homeless individuals in your community? The answer to that question is simple, volunteering at St. Vincent de Paul in the Shifting Gears Bike Repair Apprentice Program.

Shifting Gears is a mentoring program which invites low-income youth of the Phoenix area to come learn to repair bikes twice a week for four weeks. On the fifth week, the participants are allowed to choose a bike of their own to work on and take home. With the bike, the participants receive a helmet, lock and light.

Not only does the program seek to build responsible, well rounded teenagers, but the end result of the participants' and mentors' hard work are numerous fixed bicycles which are given to homeless individuals through St. Vincent de Paul's Ministry to the Homeless, as a mode of transportation, to and from work.

According to Aaron Heilbrun, one of the mentors for the Shifting Gears Program, "[the program itself] is a laudable contribution to Phoenix. It encourages the kids to work towards a goal and see it through to its end". Many of the kids who participate in the program not only need something to do after school, but also, role models to be examples for them.

So, if you have a knack for fixing bikes and would like to give some of your time back to the community, please contact Marie at 602-261-6855 to become a part of the Shifting Gears program.

 

February 1 Saturday Cycling Report

Added February 1, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had a few racer wannabes off doing the Usery Pass Time Trial this morning, but still managed to pull in 65 riders. (If you did the time trial, write and tell how things went, for the benefit of those of us who plan to live vicariously through you this racing season-- and best of luck in the Usery Pass Road Race tomorrow!) But back to the story of South Mountain. Bob Beane managed to make it just a couple of miles out on the course before ripping the heck out a tire. A dollar bill boot was created, and he was soon back in the ride. This was still better than Buddy, who demonstrated why we ask that you wear your helmets when in motion on your bike in the parking lot at the start point. (Buddy says no harm done, with the exception of a bruised ego and possibly a bent spoke.) Jack Graham celebrated his last Saturday as a young fifty-ish kinda guy (he turns 60 this week) by showing the rest of us how it's done by going up to the towers. (Happy B-day Jack!) We had a rider, Ann, visiting us from Minnesota. Says she can't wait to go home and tell her cycling buds back there that she ate breakfast outdoors and the sun was a little too warm! (We encouraged her not to tell, else the few people left who have not moved from Minnesota to Arizona will promptly do so!) Living in paradise is a tough job.

Coming up...

Saturday 2/8/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. We head north through ASU and by the Town Lake, then east onto the McKellips Loop. Mileage options 28 miles or 37 miles, both with a little gentle climbing. Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe, northwest of Alma School and Guadalupe.

Saturday 2/15/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Ride off all that chocolate you ate on Valentine's day by heading out on the Lindsay Loop, which takes us to the southeast. Options of 26 miles or 36 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at HomeTown Buffet, northwest corner Warner and Evergreen.

Monday 2/17/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Got the day off? If not, can you play hooky? Another holiday adventure ride awaits us. Before it gets incredibly hot and toasty (which could be really soon at the rate we are going!) we take on Saturday Cycling's version of Round the Mountain. A loop ride counterclockwise around South Mountain. One route, 43 miles, but we'll have three stops and encourage our standard riders to join in. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, southeast of Chandler Blvd & Rural.

Tid bits...

Our lost and found pile now includes a water bottle, tall, says "McDowell Desert Classic Duathlon 2001". Some one in our pack dropped it on the road down from the towers this morning.

Next Sunday (2/9/03) is one the classic rides in this area, the 11th Annual Laveen Country Challenge. Starting and finishing in the town of Laveen, this ride offers great rest stops (hmm... homemade cookies!) and a BBQ after the ride. Proceeds benefit the youth of Laveen.

Ride safe.

 

March 30 Spin Cycle Report

Added March 31, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 23 riders take on the nice weather, and a great ride around South Mountain. We started off in a very calm manner, and even stayed under warp speed, at least until we got to the first regroup. After everyone was accounted for, we were off, making our way with a little tail wind and dogging the other riders doing the same route.

After our first regroup, we pretty much stayed together, leveraging everyone to pull against the wind. Our little hill climb on Estrella was a fast and furious sprint, with Gene deciding to leap off the front with Randy and Tim closely following. Luckily, I used them all to pull me up the hill until the very end, that was very nice of them, eh....After we turned on Dobbins we were treated to a little head wind. Everyone made it to the regroup, and we decided to take the bike path instead of Baseline, which wasn't bad at all, something we might consider for the future. One last sprint up the hill by Rustlers Roost, and off to Breakfast.

Even Patty joined us for breakfast today, to bad she didn't buy, we'll have to educate her on the new person buying everyone else breakfast......Overall, a good ride and a good day.

Ride Schedule

Sunday 4/6 - 7:00 AM - NOTE TIME CHANGE - We'll do the McKellupe Loop since we were able to do it last time. Mileage of 34, 39 or 50, mostly flat with a couple of slight hills, and a chance of wind... Breakfast at Crackers - by request of Ron. (hopefully he can be ride leader again, since I'm out)

Sunday 4/13 7:00 AM Tour de Lehi - off to the town of Lehi, mileage of 35 or 40 miles, all mostly flat with one slight climb. Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe.

Other Info

Jerseys!! Our long anticipated new club jerseys will be arriving the second week of April. They will be distributed at Saturday Cycling and Spin Cycle for a couple of weekends, then if we miss anybody, we'll drop the remainder in the mail. Note, the club did over-order only a few extras. If you did not order a jersey previously, the extras will be offered up on a cash basis, first come, no reservations. If we have enough interest we will make another order in May, to be delivered in July.

Road trip! Pen this date onto your calendar. Saturday May 17th is our club's 2nd annual Tour de Payson. We hope to relocate the entire Saturday pack to Payson for that day's ride. Pick up a registration form any Saturday morning. Ride fee is $15 which gets you some great support stops and post ride lunch. Ride start time is 8am (registration will open at 7am) so you can drive up that morning if you want instead of staying the night. We are going to be arranging some carpools and bike transports-- so if you want in on the adventure, we'll find a way to get you there! Pine trees, cool breezes, views of the rim-- definitely an excellent way to start the summer.

 

March 29 Saturday Cycling Report

Added March 29, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The balmy spring weather brought out a pack of 74 riders to the park this morning. Considering there were only 70 maps, this brought back into play a club rule from last summer-- "those who arrive last are doomed to be lost". Actually, since we were headed to the Ahwatukee Foothills, where everybody kinda makes their own route, we could have handed out maps of downtown Ajo and it would of still been all good! Off we rolled to the first regroup where the standard riders (and a few spies from the express train) chatted up how to ride a paceline. We progressed to Pecos Road to practice our newly learned line skills-- only to be confronted by our friend, the wind. All still did great with the line work, though. What a team!

Coming up...

Saturday 4/5/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!! The pack takes on South Mountain with route options of 28 miles, 40 miles, or 42 miles, varying degrees of climbing. Breakfast is 5&Diner, on Priest northwest of Baseline.

Saturday 4/12/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. If you are not headed off to the Tour de Phoenix, come join us for the Tour de Greenbelt. We'll follow the Rio Salado multi-use path across Tempe and then north into Scottsdale on the Greenbelt. One route, 29 miles, no climbing. This will be a moderate paced ride-- so leave those aero bars at home. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, Mill & 11th in Tempe.

Saturday 4/19/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Awhile back our prez Bob Beane created a new route for us, the MummyBack Loop. This a beautiful course taking us by both Camelback and Mummy Mountain, and new enough that we can all get lost together. Route options 29 miles or 34 miles, both with some moderate climbing (plus one honking straight up the side of a hill option on the long route). Breakfast at Pete's 19th Tee, Rolling Hills Golf Course, on Mill north of Curry.

Tid bits...

Jerseys!! Our long anticipated new club jerseys will be arriving the second week of April. They will be distributed at Saturday Cycling and Spin Cycle for a couple of weekends, then if we miss anybody, we'll drop the remainder in the mail. Note, the club did over-order only a few extras. If you did not order a jersey previously, the extras will be offered up on a cash basis, first come, no reservations. If we have enough interest we will make another order in May, to be delivered in July.

Road trip! Pen this date onto your calendar. Saturday May 17th is our club's 2nd annual Tour de Payson. We hope to relocate the entire Saturday pack to Payson for that day's ride. Pick up a registration form any Saturday morning. Ride fee is $15 which gets you some great support stops and post ride lunch. Ride start time is 8am (registration will open at 7am) so you can drive up that morning if you want instead of staying the night. We are going to be arranging some carpools and bike transports-- so if you want in on the adventure, we'll find a way to get you there! Pine trees, cool breezes, views of the rim-- definitely an excellent way to start the summer.

And to Ralph Heins, we wish you a safe and enjoyable journey. Our Ralph heads off Friday for a two month bike trek, from Arizona to New Hampshire, to attend his 50th class reunion! He is setting up a website so we can all check in on this travels, site address to follow later.

Ride safe.

 

March 23 Spin Cycle Report

Added March 23, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Well, it's been two weeks since our last report, looks like the weather halted the trip from last week, however a few of our riders had a new name for our stand-in ride leader. Knowing the "G" rated audience we have, I'll just let you know that Carter has volunteered for the next ride leadership (turnaround is fair play). We had 16 riders take in the perfect weather today. Overall, a great day to ride.

Nothing too exciting happened today, everyone was well behaved, which is a first for this group. We all managed to give Roger a bad time with his Kid bike, but after he took off after the first re-group, he left the group cheering. Even though I mentioned a moderate 23 mph pace, I don't think we ever maintained it. A little pep talk after the second re-group on how to accelerate from a stop sign without making the people in the back of the paceline do start and stop sprints was in order. After that, chaos broke out (actually, we did have a few smooth transitions - maybe this group is capable of learning).

Breakfast at Ripe Tomato was ripe at times, but I'll leave that for your imagination. You'll just have to be there for the next fun filled adventure.

Ride Schedule

Sunday 3/30 - 7:30 Around the mountain. Go around South Mountain - mileage of 45 or 45, all mostly flat. Several regroups, breakfast at Bagel Nosh...

Sunday 4/6 - 7:00 AM - NOTE TIME CHANGE - We'll do the McKellupe loop since we were able to do it last week. Mileage of 34, 39 or 50, mostly flat with a couple of slight hills, and a chance of wind... Breakfast at Crackers - by request of Ron. (hopefully he can be ride leader again, since I'm out.)

Sunday 4/13 - 7:00 AM Tour de Lehi - off to the town of Lehi, mileage of 35 or 40 miles, all mostly flat with one slight climb. Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe.

 

March 22 Saturday Cycling Report

Added March 22, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Ah, the siren call of free food. We had 71 riders head out of the park today, actually 72 if you count the one nameless rider who STILL didn't catch the concept of our time change to 7:30am. Most made their way around the route without incident, except two who appeared in one of our local bike shops for some minor mechanical work. (Hey, Tom Culp, sorry you were workin' at the shop today, but thanks for helping out with our riders!) The rest of the group descended on Daley Park just in time to be joined by about 10 riders from the Sun Lakes gang, and all jumped into the feeding frenzy, while president Bob Beane tried to make himself heard over the sounds of bagel noshing. Thanks to Muriel for helping with breakfast set up and clean up.

Coming up...

Saturday 3/29/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. We head to Ahwatukee, with mileage options of 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with some moderate climbing. While the express train riders are off strutting their stuff in the hills, the mid-level riders are going to have a clinic on paceline riding, then we'll do a slow motion line down Pecos so that all can learn the dance. Breakfast is Perkins at Chandler Blvd and 54th St.

Saturday 4/5/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!! Do you know the Center Line Rule? Though it's a racing term, we'll talk about how it applies to you as a recreational rider. To put our knowledge to the test, the pack takes on South Mountain with route options of 28 miles, 40 miles, or 42 miles, varying degrees of climbing. Breakfast is 5&Diner, on Priest northwest of Baseline.

Saturday 4/12/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. While our hard driven mileage dogs take on the Tour de Phoenix, the rest of us will take the Tour de Greenbelt. We'll be taking in the Rio Salado multi-use path and then north into Scottsdale on the Greenbelt path. This is a beautiful, relaxed riding kinda thing, lots of lakes, ducks, and skater babes (uh, "babes" would be either guys or gals, depending on your perspective). One route, 29 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, Mill & 11th in Tempe.

Tid bits...

We recently had a rider receive an injury during one of our rides who needed medical attention. Since then, a number of our newer members expressed surprise at how quickly and efficiently we organized what was needed. We can do that because of the wonder of cellphones. If you ride in our Saturday group and carry a cellphone with a memory, please ask the ride leader for their cellphone number put it into your phone.

Now, the reverse works, too. If you carry a cellphone (that you actually leave turned on!) when you ride with us on Saturday mornings and would like us to be able to reach you, zip a note to this address giving your name and cellphone number. Take the time to record the numbers of your friends that you hang with in the pack.

And, a reminder of an item we have talked about before but needs refreshing. If you ride with our group and you have a medical condition, get "tagged". Most bike and running magazines advertise companies that will for a few dollars make you a dog-tag that you can wear on a chain, on a shoe, or as bracelet. Put on it anything we would need to know if you are not able to tell us.

Ride safe.

 

March 15 Saturday Cycling Report

Added March 16, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We ended up with about 42 riders in the pack this morning-- a large number of which appeared after our 7:30am start time. (Should we start reminding you now that we switch to 7am for April/May??) With Brenda safely located mid pack we managed to eventually get rolling out of the park in the correct direction. With most of the advanced riders off doing the Mountain Climbing Challenge, er, that is the Mining Country Challenge and the TBC (stage race in Tucson) we had some new legs leading out the fast pack. Lehi was beautiful as always, lotsa flowers and chickens and what not. The cruise back thru Tempe gave up some interesting people watching due to the music festival taking place by the lake later today. (Yes, black leather is very versatile.) Our breakfast table conversation was getting a little intense with a discussion of the current event issues going on in our world-- until Leo Rogers distracted the crowd by reaching up to adjust a contact lens with fingers that had just handled Tabasco sauce. Never a dull moment with this group.

Coming up...

Saturday 3/22/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. FREE BREAKFAST!! Our spring PMBC/GABA ride/breakfast/meeting. First, a pedal to the northeast, on the McKellips Loop backwards. On the way back, breakfast is served up at Daley Park, on College southeast of Apache. Eats will start at 9:30am, the meeting will start shortly after. Mileage options are 26 miles or 36 miles, a little gentle climbing on each. Breakfast is free for PMBC/GABA members, $4 for non-members.

Saturday 3/29/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. We have had some riders in the standard pack ask about learning to paceline, which is kinda hard to do if you can't maintain the speed needed to ride with the express train. We head to Ahwatukee, giving us the opportunity to pedal on Pecos. The standard riders will have a clinic mid-route to talk about pacelining and then we'll do a slo-mo version of a line on Pecos to put those skills into practice. Mileage options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with some moderate climbing. Breakfast Perkins at Chandler Blvd and 54th St.

Saturday 4/5/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!! Training for Tour de Phoenix? Come build your power up with a journey to the Towers at South Mountain. Route options 28 miles, 40 miles, or 42 miles. That would be a little bit of climbing, a moderate amount of climbing, or "yikes". Breakfast is 5&Diner, on Priest northwest of Baseline.

Tid bits...

In response to requests for our group to have someplace on line to continue our breakfast conversations, we are in the midst of setting up a chat room. If you would like to join in, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/pmbcaz/.

If you are a member of PMBC/GABA just log yourself in to the site. Once set up, click on CHAT (not Message) and there you are. Note this is a real time chat room, so there needs to be somebody else there for you to chat with (but that doesn't seem to deter some riders in our group, so maybe this is not an issue!)

Bike Week approacheth! Bike to Work and School Day is scheduled for Wed 4/9. The city of Tempe is offering no less than 4 locations this year for cyclists to pick up free breakfast and t-shirts that morning, just for being out and about on a bike. Pick up a flyer at SatCycling next weekend for details on times and places. Of course, us cyclists can smell a free breakfast from quite a distance, so maybe the location directions are not needed?

Ride safe.

 

March 9 Spin Cycle Report

Added March 9, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

You can tell the weather got nicer, as we had 23 riders take off today. We had a couple of new riders join us (Stuart and Darren - welcome), and a visitor from Kansas - Randy. It must be very nice weather in Kansas, or he does a lot of indoor training as he kicked our butts today...We tried a new route for the day, which was overall a good ride, hardly any lights and stop signs and little traffic. However, instead of Milk Run I might rename it to Choices, as there are soo many choices to choose from and even with all those options, we still got off track (I wouldn't call it lost), oh well, Map by Brail works for me.

Nothing too exciting today to report, I did win the over hill sprint bonus over Riggs, but that was because Randy didn't know (good thing.....). He took the final sprint, just playing with us and clearly asking, where is this sprint to???? Breakfast at Wildflower was great, actually any food at that time would have been great, but that is another story.

Ride Schedule

Sunday 3/16 - 7:30 am The McKellupe Loop - McKellips & Guadalupe, mileage of 34, 39 or 50, mostly flat with a couple of slight hills, and a chance of wind... Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe. I believe I talked Ron into leading the ride next Sunday while I'm in Mexico killing a few brain cells, take it easy on him...

Sunday 3/23 - 7:30 Germannlupe - Germann to Higley or Lindsay, then to Guadalupe. Mileage of 33 or 42 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Ripe Tomatoes.

Sunday 3/30 - 7:30 Around the mountain. Go around South mountain - mileage of 45 or 45, all mostly flat. Several regroups, breakfast at Bagel Nosh.

Tips:

I would like to make a plea to all of our riders, especially when we are in big groups, to please use the bike lanes. This is more important on busy streets. We have on a few occasions (especially in large groups) taken more than our fair share, and I ask that you be aware of this situation and utilize the lane when possible.

Thanks - Ride Safe...

Glen

 

March 8 Saturday Cycling Report

Added March 8, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Well, it was... an adventurous morning. Our pack of 58 riders was entertained before we even left today by the sounds of Val hootin' and hollerin' when she went for a joy ride around the parking lot on the back of Tim Kjellberg's new Double Vision recumbent tandem. (Yes, it is kinda like riding a recliner chair!) We then get ourselves aligned into a tightly organized riding group, with Brenda leading the charge out onto the route-- going in the wrong direction. Proving that cyclists are truly descended from lemmings, the entire pack of course followed Brenda unquestioningly out of the park in the wrong direction. Within a block a few silly riders glanced at their maps and the group managed to get itself flipped around and the ride was finally on. Our split between advanced riders and standard riders got a little fuzzy today, with the group breaking down into about 5 groups seemingly based on who they wanted to socialize with as opposed to ability level. Those that managed to stay on the mapped route (sometimes a challenge with the Mummy Mountain route) were treated to the sight on LaFayette of the most gloriously toilet-paper bedecked house ever seen. Ya know, if we could just harness the energy of the kids that did that, we could solve the problems of the world! After much scenic wondering aboot on various translations of the route, most of the pack found their way to either bagels or pancakes or the park.

Coming up...

Saturday 3/15/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. We head to the gentle roads of Lehi, to check out the flowers and chickens and what not. Route options 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at IHOP, southwest corner Apache & College.

Saturday 3/22/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. FREE BREAKFAST!! Oh, and a bike ride. Our spring PMBC/GABA ride/breakfast/meeting. The route takes us to the northeast, on the McKellips loop backwards. (Yes, Buddy, that does mean lots of left turns.) Breakfast will be served up at Daley Park, which is on College just south of Apache, on the east side of the road. Breakfast will start being served at 9:30am, the meeting will start when our president gets done eating. Mileage options on the route are 26 miles or 36 miles, a little gentle climbing on each. Breakfast is free for PMBC/GABA members, $4 for non-members.

Saturday 3/29/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Back to the Foothills of Ahwatukee we go. Mileage options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with some moderate climbing. Breakfast Perkins at Chandler Blvd and 54th St.

Tid bits...

Our president Bob Beane says:

We are looking for a couple of volunteers for Sunday, April 13 to pump tires and help with minor fixits at the starting point for "Bike to BOB". Participants will get a free ticket to the D'Backs vs. Milwaukee Brewers that afternoon at 1:35. Riders will begin registering at 9:30, and Landis Cyclery will be doing bike safety checks. Start point is Margaret Hance Park in Downtown Phoenix. Contact Bob Beane if you can assist.

Ride safe.

 

March 2 Spin Cycle Report

Added March 2, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 12 riders today, the rest must have been afraid of the potential rain that never fell or slept in and forgot about the March 7:30 start time (especially you Carter - we had this ride just because of you). Well, our small in number but great in mass (not sure if that sounded right) made our way to South Mountain taking Southern instead of Baseline, which I believe everyone enjoyed. We had a couple of new riders join Sunday - Tom and Joe for the first time, welcome....

Nothing too exciting happened until we got to the Ramada just before the climb. That is when RiderX decided to tell me something that I'm not sure I even want to know, but knowing it, I have to share it with all. Seems that the men's bathroom main toilet handle was a little loose, and after RiderX was done doing what he was doing, he went to use the handle, but it fell off in the toilet. Being the good cycling citizen that he is, he spent a few minutes fishing it out of the toilet (with toilet paper - he wanted to make sure I understood that), which he was able to retrieve and then properly "flush". Thanks for sharing RiderX....Oh my, the things that I write.....(I'm sure our webmaster Terry is going to have fun with this one)......

(Webmaster's Note: After about a half hour of trying to figure out how to handle this crazy story, I decided it was classic Spin Cycle and it shouldn't be edited out. However, do to the wide scope of the internet, I have changed the name of the "good cycling citizen" to protect RiderX from international embarrassment. Although, those who receive this ride report directly by email will already know the true identity of RiderX.)

We then made our way up the mountain (without shaking RiderX's hand I might add), with Roger taking King of the Hill while I took King of the Downhill....We then made our way to breakfast where the conversation took on even stranger twist (that's hard to believe with this group). Roger decided to tell us about his latest doctors visit and while I can't remember the exact name of the procedure, his nurse told him he had good muscle reflexes (oh my :-o) Other than that, another quiet day on the road.....

Ride Schedule

Sunday 3/9 - 7:30 am The Milk Run....I found a new map. A ride of 40, 38, or 36 miles, all mostly flat. Out on 56th to Riggs, then to Hunt and either taking Cooper, Gilbert, or out to Greenfield. Breakfast at Wildflower at the mall.

Sunday 3/16 - 7:30 am The McKellupe Loop - Mckellips & Guadalupe, mileage of 34, 39 or 50, mostly flat with a couple of slight hills, and a chance of wind... Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe. If you have ever wanted to be ride leader, here is your chance. I'll be out this day, so if you are interested in leading the herd, let me know, I have the map.

Sunday 3/23 - 7:30 Germannlupe - Germann to Higley or Lindsey, then to Guadalupe.Mileage of 33 or 42 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Ripe Tomatoes.

Sunday 3/30 - 7:30 Around the mountain. Go around South mountain - mileage of 45 or 45, all mostly flat. Several regroups, breakfast at Bagel Nosh...

 

March 1 Saturday Cycling Report

Added March 1, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The rain from last night gave way to a gorgeous "red sky at morning" sunrise for us today-- that would be the 33 us who didn't let a few clouds deter us from cycling. Actually, it was 33 riders as we left the park but we picked up a couple more in route, which would be the calendar-challenged who didn't realize today was the first day of March and our first Saturday back to a 7:30am start! The fast pack took a few miles to sort out just who would lead the train today, but eventually Connie and Andy got them kicked up and on their way. We had a good sized second group that took on the long route at a conversational pace who upheld the theory that cyclists NEVER run out of things to talk about. Perkins was welcoming as always and a couple of the guys learned why most of us select half-orders of pancakes or French toast at that place!

Coming up...

Saturday 3/8/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. We offer up two routes to (or around) Mummy Mountain. Route options 27 miles with some moderate climbing, or 40 miles with a little more climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, northwest of Mill & 11th.

Saturday 3/15/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Lehi takes us to the Zen road through Lehi. Route options 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at IHOP, southwest corner Apache & College.

Saturday 3/22/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. It's time for our quarterly membership ride/breakfast/meeting. Ya know what that means? FREE FOOD! Oh yeah, you do have to listen to our officers yak for a few minutes, but you can eat while they're talking, so it's not too bad. Due to Kiwanis Park already being booked up for that date, we will be relocating to another spot for the breakfast stop-- details are still being sorted out. Once that is figured out, we'll pick a route for the ride. Stay tuned. Breakfast is free for PMBC/GABA members, $4 for non-members.

Tid bits...

If you have not joined PMBC/GABA yet, hop in by March 22nd and take advantage of the club hosted breakfast. You can pick up an application any Saturday morning or click here.

The $15 annual membership gets you 4 free breakfasts a year, a monthly newsletter, insurance, discounts on major organized rides, etc.

And speaking of organized rides, Connie says she is still in need of some worker bees for the Mining Country Challenge ride on Saturday March 15th in Superior. If you can assist, zip her a note.

Ride safe.

 

April 27 Spin Cycle Report

Added April 30, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Bike details by Gary and Ron - thanks guys for leading the pack...

While the cats away the mice will lounge around the house.

We had 16 bikes and 17 riders this perfect bike riding day. Ron and I couldn't agree on the numbers. Ron forgot to count himself at the start. Ron thought there were 17 riders and 16 bikes; I thought there were 16 bikes and 17 riders. All Sue could do was roll her eyes.

The group agreed to ride "abnormal" today. We stayed together the entire ride and chatted up a storm. No one complained about our moderate pace and some even commented on how nice it was to stay as a pack. No sprint up Gavin Parkway, the long slow climb up Invergordon or Curry. I [Gary] took the big hill at the end of Invergordon and to the light at Lincoln. Other than that, the pack enjoyed the miles at civil speeds.

Poor Carter – the one day he shows up without a hangover and we ride easy. Better luck next time. Sue joined us for breakfast making five riders who know what a weekend ride is really about. Randy, Carter, Ron and myself the other four.

Randy and I both ended up with just over 47 miles so you may consider changing the map mileage from 40 to 47. No one else did the route with breakfast from the park.

I'll be out next week as well, but looks like Gary and Ron will take care of you.

Ride Schedule

Sunday 5/4 7:00 AM Ohcotukeeloop - Route to Ocotillo and then to Ahwatukee. Route options of 35-45 miles with light to a lot of hills. Breakfast at Good Egg.

Sunday 5/11 7:00 AM - Mothers Day - Don't forgot your Mom - Let's do the Milk Run - or better known as "options". Route options of 36, 38, 40, or 44 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower at the Chandler Mall.

For the two dozen or so of you who wanted to buy one of the club purchased ones, they are gone. We already have enough riders wanting to buy that we will be placing another order in May. If you want a jersey, pick up an order form on Sunday morning or click here.

 

April 26 Saturday Cycling Report

Added April 26, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 59 riders head out on our loop this morning, enjoying the last bit of spring's cool mornings. Did you see the Jacaranda trees just starting to show those gorgeous purple flowers? Ya know what that means? It's gonna get warm... ok, hot... soon. Our pack split up into several bunches, with some of the advanced riders opting to take a more gentle version of the route today in preparation for the Tour of the Tucson Mountains tomorrow. Breakfast on the patio at the Wildflower was laid back, with most in no rush to get back on their trusty steeds for the pedal back to the park. Such a rough life we lead.

Coming up...

Saturday 5/3/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Sue takes us on a loop to the south, with options on either Queen Creek or Riggs Road, 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Our mysterious breakfast stop has been reduced to heading to the traditional Perkins, northeast corner Chandler Blvd & 54th St.

Saturday 5/10/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We head to the northwest on the McKellips Loop. Mileage options 28 miles or 37 miles, a gentle climb on each. Breakfast is Neighbors Cafe, northwest of Alma School & Guadalupe.

Saturday 5/17/03. Road trip! The Tour de Payson offers up pine trees, great views, food, and fun. Pick up a registration form any Saturday morning. We'll be lining up some carpools, so anybody that wants to head up north with us for the day, get yourself signed up. If you just can't make the journey, a ride will be offered up from Kiwanis Park, to Lehi. (But wouldn't you rather go visit the pine trees?)

Tid bits...

Lotsa bits this week-- so here we go:

Kathy Hendricks is in need of a couple of bodies to help her work the Salt River Tour on May 10th and 11th. This one is a heck of a deal for the workers because of the perks-- you get all of your meals provided, a hotel room, and gas mileage paid. Plus you earn GABA bucks for GABA Tucson. If you aren't familiar with GABA bucks, Kathy can tell you all about 'em when you contact her to volunteer!

We welcome to the world the newest, youngest member of our club. Paul "Papa" Krasner announces that Samantha Bethany joined us last Sunday 4/20/03 at 10:09 PM. She weighed in at 6 lb. 6 oz, 18.25 inches. Big feet (for the pedals). Mom and baby are doing fine, and Paul is back in the saddle trying to work off those darn pregnancy pounds.

We have discussed in the past that when we ride, we leave no trace. Beverage bottles, sport bar wrappers, dead tubes--- they all go in a pocket when we are out on the road until you can find an appropriate spot to dispose of them. This might seem like a silly point to have to bring up, but the Kiwanis Park officials have noted that we need to work a bit on this concept at our start point. After you chug that morning Starbucks... or that post ride Gatorade... slam dunk the debris into one of the barrels in the parking lot. Note, slam dunking the items into the back of your ride leader's pick-up truck will result in penalty points.

Cool lookin' jerseys, huh? Just wanted to drop a special thanks to our prior prez, Mike Morross, for the original design idea. The closing date for our next order of jerseys is 5/20. If you need an order form, send a note to yours truly with your mailing address and we'll snail mail one to you.

And... you have registered for the Payson ride, right??

Ride safe.

 

April 20 Spin Cycle Report

Added April 20, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Happy Easter everyone!!!!

Sixteen riders showed up to see what the Easter Bunny was wearing today. Too bad you weren't there, he was wearing his biking shorts....It's funny with the tail in the back, but he did have extra padding.....

Ok, enough of that stuff, let's see. Carter did his usual, letting me know, and I let everyone else know, that he was a little hung over and suffering from lack of sleep (and probably liquids). We were all very sorry to hear this, so we took it easy on him, yea right! Gary pushed it up to 28 for a while into the wind. How are you feeling now Carter?????

All, in one way or another, made our way back to Guadalupe and Extension, where we were met by Sue. Hey Sue, guess what, the rides start at 7:00. A few of us went to breakfast at Ripe Tomato and watched in awe as Gary took on the Big Burrito!!!

That's all for now (at least what I can print). Have a good week.

Ride Schedule

Sunday 4/27 7:00 AM Tour Around Mummy - Route to the Southeast and around Mummy Mountain. Mileage of 35- or 45 with moderate to one big honker of a hill. Breakfast at Pete's Grill.

Sunday 5/4 7:00 AM Ohcotukeeloop - Route to Ocotillo and then to Ahwatukee. Route options of 35-45 miles with light to a lot of hills. Breakfast at Good Egg.

Sunday 5/11 7:00 AM - Mother's Day - Don't forgot your Mom - Let's do the Milk Run - or better known as options. Route options of 36, 38, 40, or 44 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower at the Chandler Mall.

For the two dozen or so of you who wanted to buy one of the club purchased ones, they are gone. We already have enough riders wanting to buy that we will be placing another order in May. If you want a jersey, pick up an order form on Sunday morning or send your mailing address to yours truly and we'll pop a form in the snail mail to you.

 

Photos from PMBC's March 22 Membership Meeting

Added April 19, 2003

photos by Bob Beane

Yes, Sue fed quite a few hungry cyclists at our quarterly meeting...84?
  
 

 

April 19 Saturday Cycling Report

Added April 19, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

69 riders decided the place to be was out riding with us this morning. Bit of an eclectic gathering, with ages ranging from 15 yrs to early 70s and with skill levels from state champions down to... well, those who are champions in their own minds. A route new to most in the group resulted in a little creative wandering aboot in Scottsdale, with the entire advanced pack running amuck off the course, but they eventually managed to find their way. Our ranks swelled even more at the second regroup when we had an ABC (the other riding group here in the valley) group of riders appear at the same location for their regroup. Thanks bunches to Leo Rogers for playing the lantern rouge and assisting with the tail end of the group.

Coming up...

Saturday 4/26/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. A loop to the southeast, by way of either McQueen or Val Vista. Mileage options 25 miles or 36 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at the Wildflower, northwest of Price and Frye (in the Chandler Mall).

Saturday 5/3/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Sue takes us on a loop to the south, with options on either Queen Creek or Riggs Road, 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. The food stop for this adventures is still being discussed. Assume that we will stop somewhere on the way back and eat.

Saturday 5/10/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The McKellips Loop takes us out for our wind training. (Why DOES the wind always blow on that road??) Mileage options 28 miles or 37 miles, a gentle climb on each. Breakfast is Neighbors Cafe, northwest of Alma School & Guadalupe.

Saturday 5/17/03. Road trip! The Tour de Payson offers up pine trees, great views, food, and fun. Pick up a registration form any Saturday morning. We'll be lining up some carpools, so anybody that wants to head up north with us for the day, get yourself signed up. If you just can't make the journey, a ride will be offered up from Kiwanis Park, to Lehi. (But wouldn't you rather go visit the pine trees?)

Tid bits...

The riders who had on their new club jerseys this morning rode so much faster! For the two dozen or so of you who wanted to buy one of the club purchased ones, they are gone. Hmm... maybe you should have... ORDERED ONE?!! Ah, but you are in luck, we already have enough riders wanting to buy that we will be placing another order in May. Pick up an order form any Saturday morning or send your mailing address to your's truly and we'll pop a form in the snail mail to you.

Ride safe.

 

April 13 Spin Cycle Report

Added April 13, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Twenty riders made it out for a nice ride to the Town of Lehi. Even today, some of the group had never seen Lehi, I'm so glad we can provide not only exercise, entertaining discussion and sometimes a little harassment, but a little geography lessons here and there. Let's see, the group was pretty mild mannered, they must have gotten it all out of their systems last week (either that or the absence of Sue and Carter - huumm!!!). After ringing the alarm for Ron, we were on our way. Zach get's flat head of the week honors with two, followed closely by Tom Culp - what an excuse to get out of the sprint hill on Horne!!

After the first flat, we had a couple of rabbits take off. While the group thought all of the rabbits took the short route, one decided to take the long route. While the rest of the group was jocking for position for the first sprint, good ol Rick leisurely ascended the top of the hill. How do I know this, he sent me an email, which I have attached in quotes. "What happen to you guys? I looked back you guys were about a mile behind me on Horne after that not to be seen? I hope you noticed that I was the first up the hill on Horne and feel I should get the honors king of the hill." So, I guess Gary gets second and me third - I wish I knew that ahead of time, otherwise I wouldn't have went anerobic. Thanks Ron for kicking it up early on the hill too.

The second hill points, which I'm sure where won by "I'm in the lead Rick" were highly contested for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th. Zach took an early sprint out, with Gary and I in tow. Gary and I each took a side around Zach, but Gary won it in the end. Now that I haven't ridden in two weeks, I could really feel the pain, so on the final sprint, I didn't do anything but coast and watch the breeze go by.

Good ride everyone....

Ride Schedule

Sunday 4/20 7:00 AM Germanalupe - Down Germann to Lindsey or Higley, breakfast at Ripe Tomatoes. Mileage of 32 or 40 miles all flat.

Sunday 4/27 7:00 AM Tour Around Mummy - Route to the Southeast and around Mummy mountain. Mileage of 35- or 45 with moderate to one big honker of a hill. Breakfast at Pete's Grill.

 

April 12 Saturday Cycling Report

Added April 12, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The draw of the big ride (Tour de Phoenix) reduced us to 43 cyclists and one skater this morning. (Hey, we'll take pack fodder any way we can get it on a slow day.) But the group made up for lack of numbers with enthusiasm. We welcomed the next generation of club members with Glen and Chris bringing along their two little Fletchlings, Jessica and Nicolas. Both did an excellent job of tackling the course on junior size bikes, which take a heck of a lot of pedal strokes to get you where you are going! Rich "Buns of Steel" Heffern found out just how important one little bolt can be, when the seat bolt on front of the Heffern express sheared off. Veneranda says they enjoyed the togetherness of the walk to a not so nearby bike store. The rest of the gang enjoyed the Greenbelt with great views of water birds, lush green landscape, and the usual eclectic cross section of the community found along the path.

Coming up...

Saturday 4/19/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We head northbound on the MummyBack Loop, taking us by both Camelback and Mummy Mountain. Route options 29 miles or 34 miles, both with some moderate climbing. Breakfast is Pete's 19th Tee, Rolling Hills Golf Course, on Mill north of Curry.

Saturday 4/26/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. A loop to the southeast, by way of either McQueen or Val Vista. Mileage options 25 miles or 36 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at the Wildflower, northwest of Price and Frye (in the Chandler Mall).

Saturday 5/3/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Now this is a first. We actually have a new eats place asking us to come there to eat! Details are still being worked out, so we'll leave the food stop a mystery for now, but our route will be the Tour de Sue, loop options to the south on either Queen Creek or Riggs Road, 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing.

Tid bits...

They're here!! They're here! Our long awaited new club jerseys have arrived-- and they are grand looking. If you ordered a jersey you can pick it up next Saturday morning, or if you are in Spin Cycle we'll try to have them at Desert Breeze either this Sunday or next. If we don't hook up with you to get the jersey to you in the next couple of weeks, we mail out any that are left. Now, for all of you doofs that didn't order a jersey, and now that you see how stunning they are, you want one-- too bad!! (just kidding.) We have a couple of extras the club ordered, available to first cash offered up, or we will make another order shortly.

To all who participated this week in bike week events, thanks for showing support for cycling in our valley!!

Ride safe.

 

April 6 Spin Cycle Report

Added April 12, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Hello everyone, here is the belated spin cycle report from last week. I took pieces from Ron and Carter, but to tell you the truth, I had to do a lot of editing to make it presentable, and that is saying a lot for me...

Hey, man, it was cold!! My thermometer read 45. Skater said his read 42. I made some announcements about Bike Week, and how I planned to be at the Wildflowers on McClintock and Guadalupe around 6:30 for the free stuff. Then there's another one at Wholefoods at Rural and Southern, where there will not only be free stuff, but with a ride with the Tempe Mayer to beautiful down town Tempe. Oh ya; that's gotta be fun! Also the $70, Tour de Phoenix, and the $15, 2nd annual, Tour de Payson. It should be better than the 1st annual, without the fire.

Some weren't prepared for the cold and whined their frozen butts off, not to point any fingers at Gene or Carter. We pretty much stayed low key, realizing the wind factor. At the first regroup, the (Glen's edit, $@%$#!!!$@ from Ron) tall clerk reprimanded me, saying that I needed to ask permission to use the (Glen's edit @#$). So I told him that the restroom needed towels. Boy, I showed him! From there, Peaches (a.k.a Sue) took her own route and met the rest of us at the 2nd regroup. With the wind, no one opted for the "insane route". Simon had a 15-minute flat repair, so we didn't tarry at the 2nd regroup. Gary blew by everyone for the first, big overpass sprint, with Zack and I in tow. Tim blew by us for the second, minnie hill sprint, with Roger sucking his wheel. Gary, Zack and I sort of made a hap-hazard attempt.

At Cracker's, (I love that place!) the conversation, was some how directed to Roger's current wheel building experience (Glen's edit - this is the point where the editing stopped and the deleting began. Needless to say, both Ron and Carter need help). Peaches reminded me, before she took her Dobson Rd turn off, that I should not take my usual turn off home, since my car was at the park. Skater reaffirmed that and Roger said good-bye when we came to my turn off for home. It was very confusing for an old codger, lacking some amount of blood to his brain. (I know; Skater says that's normal). The remaining four of us did not even think about a sprint to the Park.

Thanks Ron for leading the group.

Ride Schedule

Sunday 4/13 7:00 AM (NOTE THE TIME CHANGE) - Tour de Lehi - off to the town of Lehi, mileage of 35 or 40 miles, all mostly flat with one slight climb. Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe.

Sunday 4/20 7:00 AM Germanalupe - Down Germann to Lindsey or Higley, breakfast at Ripe Tomatoes. Mileage of 32 or 40 miles all flat.

Sunday 4/27 7:00 AM Tour Around Mummy - Route to the Southeast and around Mummy mountain. Mileage of 35- or 45 with moderate to one big honker of a hill. Breakfast at Pete's Grill.

 

April 5 Saturday Cycling Report

Added April 6, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Our start time moved back to 7:00am today, to get a jump on the morning heat. This of course resulted in the day dawning cool and breezy for the 58 riders who turned out for our jaunt over to South Mountain. The advanced pack who took Baseline over should welcome the news that the City of Phoenix has just approved "upgrading" Baseline from about 40th Street to 7th Avenue. It will (eventually) be widened, bike lane added, and be resurfaced. Now if we could just talk them into fixing the road surfaces in S Mountain Park, we would have it made! After rambling aboot in the park for a bit we made our way to 5&Diner for great conversation and so-so service. (Hey, slow service gives us lots of time to talk!)

Coming up...

Saturday 4/12/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. For those headed off on the Tour de Phoenix, do us proud! Everybody else come on down to Kiwanis and join us for the Tour de Greenbelt. One route, 29 miles, no climbing, moderate pace. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, Mill & 11th in Tempe.

Saturday 4/19/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The MummyBack Loop takes us by both Camelback and Mummy Mountain. Route options 29 miles or 34 miles, both with some moderate climbing. Breakfast at Pete's 19th Tee, Rolling Hills Golf Course, on Mill north of Curry.

Saturday 4/26/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Off to the southeast we head, by way of either McQueen or Val Vista. Mileage options 25 miles or 36 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at the Wildflower, northwest of Price and Frye (in the Chandler Mall).

Tid bits...

We talked this morning a bit about Garret Lamire, a young UCLA racer who lost his life the Tucson Bicycling Classic a few weeks ago. The teams involved in the stage race are hosting a memorial ride tomorrow, in Tucson, and all cyclists are welcome to join in. Sunday April 6th, 8:00am, start is at the Pima Community College West Campus and the ride will travel to Gates Pass along Speedway, under police escort. There will be a brief ceremony at the top of the pass and then the ride will return to PCC.

And finally, it's "our" week. April 5th to April 13th is bike week! Are you tired of gas prices? Put that smog belching pile of metal away in the garage for a few days. Break out your backpack, and off you go... to the grocery store, the video store, the post office... to school or work. All those excuses why you don't bike commute? For just a day, one day, on Wednesday 4/9/03, put them aside. You can even pick up free breakfast and a t-shirt at several locations in Tempe that morning, just for being out and about on a bike between 6:30am and 8:30am. Saturday Cyclers are encouraged to turn out in support of the Tempe Mayor's ride. Start point is the Whole Foods Market, northwest corner of Baseline & Rural, start time is 7:30am (but get there early to gather up all the free swag!). We ride with the mayor up in to downtown Tempe. Just a few miles, but lots of good PR!

Ride safe.

 

May 31 Saturday Cycling Report

Added May 31, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The chance to pedal under cloudy skies this morning brought out 74 riders for our trek to the southeast. The pack managed to make it across the diagonal tracks at Kyrene & Elliott intact (well done!) and then our course offered up a bit of everything-- some construction, some nice straight aways, some construction, some waterfalls, some construction... you get the picture. A few of the riders who normally take the standard route decided to go all out and conquer the challenge of the long route-- you guys are becoming such mileage dogs! The Hog Trough welcomed the sweaty masses with plenty of seating room, cool drinks and best of all, air-conditioning.

Coming up...

Saturday 6/7/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!! We shift to 6:30am for the months of June/July/August. We head to Mummy Mountain on the original route. Options of 27 miles with some moderate climbing or 40 miles with some additional climbs. Breakfast is Brugger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Saturday 6/14/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Off to the Foothills of Ahwatukee we head. Route options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with some moderate climbing. Breakfast at Perkins, northeast corner Chandler Blvd & 54th St.

Saturday 6/21/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Ah, the summer solstice, now summer is official! To celebrate we'll ride ourselves silly on some of the local climbs with the St. Francis Loop. Come get lost with everybody else as we continue to try and learn this new route. Mileage options 26 miles or 36 miles, both with climbing (or you can bypass them if ya want). Breakfast is JB's, northeast of Southern & Dorsey.

Tid bits...

The pack this morning came upon the scene of a bike vs car incident. The rider was not with our group, but is a local cyclist that some might know. This was a "classic" that we see so often. The cyclist was northbound, hugging his designated spot tight to the right side of the road. A northbound vehicle passed him, and then made an immediate right turn across his path, resulting in the cyclist plowing into the rear section of the car before he could even touch his brakes. The car driver was overheard telling the police at the scene that the accident was the fault of the cyclist, because he rode into her car! We, of course, had to hang around and see how this would sort out. Our boys in blue knew their stuff though, and very thoroughly explained to the driver she must gave safe distance when passing a cyclist and must yield to cyclists when making turns. As we rolled out, she was being cited for passing a cyclist too close (woo hoo for the new law!) and for making an unsafe turn. The cyclist ended up with a sore back (but the bike seemed OK) and says maybe he'll come check out our pack. We take new members anyway we can get 'em!

Ride safe.

 

May 25 Spin Cycle Report

Added May 25, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 26 riders join us today for a little sun. Yes it is getting hot out there. Also welcome some new riders, Ken, Ron, Gil, and Jason. Our route to Mummy was interesting today, with things coming in twos. First, we had two water bottles dropped today, (from two different people), and then we had two flats (two different people). However, Ron decided to change his twice - so he gets flat head of the week award. Then to top it all off, Randy got two lumps on his left leg and can now be affectionately called "Lumpy".

Carter got two King of the Mountain points today - although the sprint through ASU doesn't count - I DQ'ed him for forcing me out of my line (you and Robbie McEwen - he that is two). Ron and Gary were the last two at breakfast. Carter was the official button pusher for all of the stop lights - being called the intimidator or is that imitator?

Ride Schedule

Monday 5/26/03 7:00am. It's a holiday! We are going to re-enact the great Quest to Sacaton ride. Back we go, to search out the Ira Hayes memorial, in beautiful downtown Sacaton. Route options are "something for everybody"-- 58 miles, 52 miles, 37 miles, or 23 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Wildflower, northwest of Frye & Price.

Sunday 6/1/03 ---- 6:30AM ---- YES, THAT IS RIGHT, JUNE WE START AT 6:30. To kick off the summer, let's do a new route. I'm going to call it Tempe Mountains. Not exactly sure of the miles, but probably in the 40-45 mile range, with a little to a few hills in there. I'm thinking of trying a new place for breakfast - but that will be a surprise as well.

 

May 24 Saturday Cycling Report

Added May 24, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 66 riders take on the heat for our ride to South Mountain this morning. Our passage through Guadalupe was greeted with waves from the day workers lining the street (pre-work day parade of people dressed in goofy clothes, from their perspective). We had several riders take on the challenge of the Towers who hadn't tried it before (congrats to Tom O'Leary for conquering the climb!) Part of the group took the alternate route to San Juan Point and on the return had a very Arizona-ish experience in the form of a large (5' to 6') snake crossing the road. A snake that size takes up a bit of the road, so there was a little skirmish while they sorted out where bikes tires would go and where the snake would go, but they managed to cross paths with all staying intact. On to the 5&Diner where a number of riders cooled off with giant milkshakes. Our pack motto? "We ride to eat."

Coming up...

Monday 5/26/03 7:00am Desert Breeze Park. Memorial Day ride! We go in search of the Ira Hayes memorial, in beautiful downtown Sacaton. Note this ride will be starting from Spin Cycle's start point at Desert Breeze Park. Route options are 58 miles, 52 miles, 37 miles, or 23 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Wildflower, northwest of Frye & Price.

Saturday 5/31/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. A loop to the south east, by way of Riggs. Route options 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Home Town Buffet, northwest of Warner & Evergreen.

Saturday 6/7/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!! We shift to 6:30am for the months of June/July/August. To celebrate our first early morning ride of the season, we head to Mummy Mountain on the original route. Options of 27 miles with some moderate climbing or 40 miles with some additional climbs. Breakfast is Brugger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Saturday 6/14/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. We haven't gotten lost in the Foothills lately, so we head to Ahwatukee for another adventure there. Route options 24 miles with no climbing, 34 miles with some moderate climbing, or the "go where ever you want to option" with mileage and climbing up to you. Breakfast at Perkins, northeast corner Chandler Blvd & 54th St.

Tid bits...

We have picked up a lot of new riders this spring, and need to review some basic guidelines that our group operates under. "Rules" seems a bit harsh a term, but breaking one of the following will result in a chat with your pack leader:

When you are in motion, have your helmet on your head with straps buckled. This means when you are rolling around the parking lot before or after the ride, your brain bucket must securely be in place. The most severe injury one of our riders sustained took place in a parking lot at walking speed. The asphalt in the parking lot is just as hard as out on the street.

No headsets. Why? First because it is against city code in several of the cities that we ride through for you to wear a headset when riding a bike on the road. Second because it is a safety issue-- you need your hearing when you ride in traffic and amid other cyclists-- you need to hear verbal ride signals, cars braking near you, bike tires going flat, etc. And third? We're a social group, be nice. Talk to people, let them talk to you. If you don't want to interact with people, why come out to ride with 60 other people?

And speaking of riding solo, when you ride in the pack, ride on the area of the road you would select if you were riding solo. If you were riding solo down Guadalupe Road, which has a nice wide bike lane, would you ride out in the middle of the traffic lane? Let's assume not. (If so, you need a bit more basic training!!) When the pack rides out each morning, we are a large group. Please make some attempt to squash yourselves down into a double line, holding tight to the right.

Ride safe.

 

May 17 Saturday Cycling Report

Added May 18, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

A dual ride report this weekend, since the pack split between Kiwanis and Payson:

Thanks to Val Horton for volunteering to keep the home fires stoked by hosting our Lehi ride from Kiwanis Park yesterday. She had 23 riders just say no to the pine tree adventure and take an enjoyable ramble to the northeast and back. Jack, Buddy, and Lance made up for the lack of riders at the breakfast table by providing plenty of conversation.

While they were busy doing that, cool morning air welcomed the 80 riders in our second Tour de Payson. Bob Beane offered up a tour around the town with an out and back ride on the beautiful Houston Mesa Road. A good view was had of the airshow at the airport (which for some reason also included vintage cars and motorcycles). The cowboys and rodeo fans in town seemed suitably impressed by the sight of our pack decked out in goofy clothes riding by... or least they stared at us as we cruised thru town early in the morning. Road biking has not found its way to Payson yet, but we're hoping to change that! Bananas were consumed, thin air was sucked desperately into lungs on the climbs, smiles made faces ache on the delicious downhills, and the post ride chairs at the lunch afterwards seemed very cushy to some. Thanks to all who put time and energy into planning and putting on this adventure for the pack!

Coming up...

Saturday 5/24/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. South Mountain Park is beautiful at this time of year, we are headed over to check it out. Route options 28 miles with gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with lotsa climbing. Breakfast at 5&Diner, on Priest northwest of Baseline.

Monday 5/26/03 7:00am Desert Breeze Park. Memorial Day ride! We go in search of the Ira Hayes memorial, in beautiful downtown Sacaton. Note this ride will be starting from Spin Cycle's start point at Desert Breeze Park. Route options are 58 miles, 52 miles, 37 miles, or 23 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Wildflower, northwest of Frye & Price.

Saturday 5/31/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Loop to the south east, by way of Riggs. Route options 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Home Town Buffet, northwest of Warner & Evergreen.

Saturday 6/7/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!! We shift to 6:30am for the months of June/July/August. To celebrate our first early morning ride of the season, we head to Mummy Mountain on the original route. Options of 27 miles with some moderate climbing or 40 miles with some additional climbs. Breakfast is Brugger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits...

OK, we dodged one toasty Saturday by zipping up to Payson, and you can skip another heat soaked day by heading to the White Mountain Tour in July-- but how about the other 20 or so Saturdays you will be pedaling between now and when the temp comes back down? Do you remember how to do this thing in the heat? Some basics:

1. Start drinking water heavily during the day on Friday morning if you will be riding with us on Saturday. When you get up Saturday morning, drink a glass of water before you head out the door... your body has not had a drink in 8 hours or so.

2. Though we are a "breakfast" club, eat before you come to ride with us. Your body needs fuel and nutrients to process all that water you are chugging. Preferably something other than the pizza sitting on your coffee table from the night before. A little protein and some complex carbs: whole grain cereal with fruit and skim milk, non-fat yogurt and whole grain toast, peanut butter on apple slices... whatever floats your boat.

3. Put a barrier between your skin and direct heat of the sun. Some riders wear long sleeve shirts in the summer... it make look silly, but it really does keep your skin cooler, which keeps your body temp down. On any exposed skin, heavily apply sunscreen or sunblock. It will not only keep your skin peachy, it again works to reflect the heat.

4. Give your body a chance to acclimatize. If you spend 6 days a week going from your air-conditioned house to your a/c'd car to your a/c'd office to your a/c'd gym... then you come out to ride with us on Saturday morning-- you are going to have a core melt down. Get yourself outdoors a couple of times during the week. (The perfect solution is of course to bike commute to and from work daily!)

Ride safe and stay cool!

 

May 11 Spin Cycle Report

Added May 11, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 22 riders take off this morning. We were welcomed by the nice brisk morning - wow - isn't it just great this spring....Our group made our way around the Milk run, but I think it needs to be renamed to the construction options. We have several options on this route, and as with the first, had many construction options that really challenged our direction. Brenda and Henry even decided to ride all the way to Power (not by choice).

Roger get's flat head of the week honors, and I have to say, that is the first flat I have witnessed Roger ever having in 2 years of cycling. Welcome Mike and Nancy to the group. Other than that, a pretty quite day riding. I would also like to thank Ron and Gary for leading the group the past two weeks.

Last week - we didn't have a report, but Ron did say it was a good group of 20, who pretty much stayed together and had a good conversation at the Good Egg. (oh boy!!!)

Ride Schedule

5/18 - 7:00 am Mckellips Loop - Mileage options of 34 or 39 miles, mostly flat, but enjoying the wind tunnel on McKellips. Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe.

5/25 - 7:00 am Mummy Mountain - the original. Mileage options of 35-45 with some minor to challenging hills. Breakfast at Pete's 19th hole.

Monday 5/26/03 7:00am. It's a holiday! We are going to re-inact the great Quest to Sacaton ride. Back we go, to search out the Ira Hayes memorial, in beautiful downtown Sacaton. Route options are "something for everybody"-- 58 miles, 52 miles, 37 miles, or 23 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Wildflower, northwest of Frye & Price.

Other Information

Payson Information - If you are traveling to Payson this coming Saturday - here is some quick information. Have fun and enjoy.....

Check-in begins at 7:00 at Manzanita Cyclery, next to Safeway on the south side of Hwy 260, about 1/4 mile East of the Beeline/Hwy 260, intersection. Please be there by 7:30, latest.

Please use the outer and/or western parking spaces at Safeway, which is what their management has requested. Also, since we are "parading" down Main, it would be great for our riders with PMBC jerseys to wear them next Saturday.

 

May 10 Saturday Cycling Report

Added May 11, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Ok, so the Jacaranda trees are confused. Our 63 riders shivered in the cool this morning, but no complaints were heard-- all know the long days of summer will be with us soon enough. We headed out into the brisk air, only to very shortly pull up for a train crossing. (Since when do trains run through Tempe on Saturday mornings??) Off we set again, making our way to McKellips, and then of course into the traditional head wind. We arrived at Neighbors, to find the Sun Lakes pack there ahead of us. At least they didn't steal our reserved tables this time! It was grand getting to chat up our southern division.

A note of thanks from Leo, to John-- thanks for the assist with the chain lube!

Coming up...

Saturday 5/17/03. The pack relocates to Payson for our annual Tour de Payson. If you haven't registered to attend, see Tour de Payson.

For those unable to make Payson, Saturday Cycling will still offer up a ride from our traditional spot in Kiwanis Park, 7:00am, to Lehi. Route options 26 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, Mill & 11th.

Saturday 5/24/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. South Mountain Park is beautiful at this time of year, we are headed over to check it out. Route options 28 miles with gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with lotsa climbing. Breakfast at 5&Diner, on Priest northwest of Baseline.

Monday 5/26/03 7:00am Desert Breeze Park. It's a holiday! We are going to re-inact the great Quest to Sacaton ride. Back we go, to search out the Ira Hayes memorial, in beautiful downtown Sacaton. Note this ride will be starting from Spin Cycle's start point at Desert Breeze Park. Route options are "something for everybody"-- 58 miles, 52 miles, 37 miles, or 23 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Wildflower, northwest of Frye & Price.

Tid bits...

See ya in Payson next Saturday!!

Ride safe.

 

May 3 Saturday Cycling Report

Added May 3, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Our 68 riders this morning enjoyed an absolutely gorgeous spring day as we headed out of the park. The wind kicked up a bit as we made our way around the route, reminding us that riding in a gusting cross wind can be as much of a challenge as a head wind! Greg stopped to assist Buddy with a flat, and Buddy returned the favor later in the morning by stopping to assist Greg with flat as we made our way back. Equal opportunity flat repair. We were welcomed with lots of seating and quick service at Perkins, and had a grand time singing Muriel "Happy Birthday" over a cookie with a candle stabbed into it. When in doubt, improvise.

Coming up...

Saturday 5/10/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. If you didn't get enough wind today, join us for our traditionally gusty jaunt across the McKellips Loop. Mileage options 28 miles or 37 miles, a gentle climb on each. Breakfast is Neighbors Cafe, northwest of Alma School & Guadalupe.

Saturday 5/17/03. Road trip! The pack relocates to Payson for our annual Tour de Payson. This ride is building up to be quite an adventure. Beautiful views, perfect weather, a parade, 36' of subsandwich-- oh, yeah, and a bike ride. You just gotta be there. If you haven't registered yet, pop your form in the mail by Monday and you still get the el cheapo pre-registration cost. If you and your bike need a ride up, or if you can offer a spot on the ride up for a rider/bike in your vehicle, zip yours truly a note.

Yes, for those sad riders who will be unable to make the trip, SatCycling will indeed hold a ride from Kiwanis Park also. Start time 7:00am, to Lehi. Route options 26 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, Mill & 11th.

Saturday 5/24/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We've had a request to make another attack on the Towers road before it gets too toasty, so back to South Mountain we head. Various mileage and climbing options. Breakfast at 5&Diner, on Priest northwest of Baseline.

Monday 5/26/03 7:00am Desert Breeze Park. It's a holiday! Woo hoo! Ya know what that means? An extra day to pedal this week! OK, some of us pedal every day, but pedaling with our friends is our favorite day off activity. We are going to re-inact the great Quest to Sacaton ride. For the gallant few who participated in this ride last year, you will recall that we got wet thru and thru in torrential rain. Back we go, to search out the Ira Hayes memorial, in beautiful downtown Sacaton. If you don't know where that is, come along! Note this ride will be starting from Spin Cycle's start point at Desert Breeze Park. Route options are "something for everybody"-- 58 miles, 52 miles, 37 miles, or 23 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Wildflower, northwest of Frye & Price.

Tid bits...

Next Saturday (May 10th) at Tempe Bike (northwest of University & Mill in Tempe) is the Bicycle Swap Meet, from 8:00am to noon. No charge to gawk and/or buy, $5 if you want to set up space to sell.

Ride safe.

 

June 29 Spin Cycle Report

Added June 29, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 32 riders take on the heat and Ahwatukee and we dominated - ok some dominated. Our pack made it's way around the map without anyone getting lost, even though I tried to make some last minute changes which I didn't even follow. Looks like Gary won all of the marked sprint points, while I am still the king of the unmarked sprint points. Just think, next week is a new ride, so all kind of new sprint point bonus opportunities for me. Oh, for honorable mention, Gene wanted me to let everyone know that he got 4th up the last hill - way to go Gene - are you embarrassed yet. If not, let me know and I'll try harder next week.

Just one comment for the group - while I know everyone wants to stay together, we do need to make sure that we obey all traffic signs, signals and rules of the road. So, if you get caught on a red light - please stop. We're a recreational group, and although we have a few sprints, it is nothing to get yourself hurt on, so please obey all traffic laws.

Ride Schedule

Friday 7/4/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park - Please note - KIWANIS PARK - It's a holiday, which of course means you should be out on your bike! Join us for another of our adventurous holiday rides. We blend the SatCycling and Spin Cycle packs for a group journey to downtown Phoenix on the Tour de City. Mileage options 35 miles, or 45 miles with some climbing. (If you are wondering how you get climbing on a tour to downtown Phoenix, you'll just have to come along.) Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, northwest of Mill & 11th in Tempe.

Sunday 7/6/03 6:30 Desert Breeze Park - Spin Cycle is 2 years old - so come celebrate with a new route - Metro Mania. We are going to see how many cities/towns we can hit in one ride. Map still being detailed, but route options in the 35-45 mileage - mostly flat with maybe a couple of gentle climbs - no sprints - I promise. Breakfast at Smoothie King

Sunday 7/13/03 6:30 Desert Breeze - Time to do the Tour around Mummy. Mileage of 35 or 40 miles with some climbs and one big hill if your interested. Gary and Ron are tag team ride leaders for the next two weeks so be gentle - aaahhh heck - give them a hard time. Breakfast at Pete's Grill in Tempe.

Sunday 7/20/03 6:30 Desert Breeze - McKellupleloop - Down to McKellupes with many loops. Mileage of 34, 39, or 50 mostly flat. Breakfast at Crackers since it is Ron's favorite.

Sunday 7/27/03 6:30 Desert Breeze - Milk Run - or better known as Options Tour. Mileage of 36, 38, 40, or 44 miles - all flat. I'm sure there is construction as well, but we'll figure it out. Breakfast at Wildflower at Chandler Mall.

 

June 28 Saturday Cycling Report

Added June 28, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Our Saturday Cycling road bike and motocross team (we'll get to that in a minute!) was led out of the park today by our "Masters", riders age 50 or more. This category turned out to be at least half the pack, with a few riders hesitating as they didn't want to admit that they belonged in that group. Most of the route was un-eventful, except for the lucky line following the leadership of Danny and John. They offered up a little creative route riding to dodge some upcoming construction and led their faithful team along an ever narrowing and eventually vanishing strip of asphalt. Hey, what's a little dirt between friends? Needed to clean those chains anyway. Ruby's Diner offered up plenty of open tables and cool a/c, making for a perfect breakfast stop.

Coming up...

Sunday 6/29/03 4:30pm to 7:30pm. Val Vista Lakes Clubhouse. Pool party and BBQ! (and a brief club meeting). The club is providing hamburgers, hot dogs, fixin's, and non-alchoholic beverages. You bring a side dish or dessert to share. Family and friends welcome. The clubhouse is located just northeast of Lakeside & Val Vista. Lakeside is the half street between Baseline & Guadalupe. As you head east on Lakeside away from Val Vista, turn left (north) into the first parking lot. Note, if you are BYOBing, no glass containers are allowed at the facility. Please RSVP so we have a head count for the BBQ.

Friday 7/4/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park It's a holiday, which of course means you should be out on your bike! Join us for another of our adventurous holiday rides. We blend the SatCycling and Spin Cycle packs for a group journey to downtown Phoenix on the Tour de City. Mileage options 35 miles, or 45 miles with some climbing. (If you are wondering how you get climbing on a tour to downtown Phoenix, you'll just have to come along.) Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, northwest of Mill & 11th in Tempe.

Saturday 7/5/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Sue takes us to the south, on either Queen Creek or Riggs. Mileage options 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Einstein's Bagels, northwest of Guadalupe and McClintock.

Saturday 7/5/03 11:00am to 1:00pm. The Vine. Yes, it's that time again. Following Saturday's ride we gather at the Vine in Ahwatukee for the traditional watching of the opening day of the Tour de France. The Vine is located on the south side of Warner, east of 48th Street.

Saturday 7/12/03 6:30pm Kiwanis Park. For the poor souls left in heat by not attending the White Mountain Tour, get yourself to the park and we'll think cool thoughts as we take the Tour de Lehi. Mileage options 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, northwest of Mill Ave & 11th.

Tid bits...

In today's ride report it was noted that after slogging through dirt and sand, a chain cleaning is in order. You do clean and lube your chain, right? As recreational riders, learning to maintain your bike is a part of the skills you need to be developing. (That and keeping the rubber side down.) Each week before you come out with us, air your tires and give your chain a spit and a polish (translate that as a wipe down and a lube). Leaving our Arizona grit on your chain and then riding it that way is a great way to shorten the life span of your equipment. If you need some instruction on chain care, see your pack leader, or you can wait till those riding around you point out that your bike sounds like a parrot being throttled.

Ride safe.

 

June 22 Spin Cycle Report

Added June 22, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 37 riders today take on Lehi. The day started with the group singing happy B-day to me, which was very nice and loud. Once we got started, we made our way to our first regroup with everyone intact. After the first regroup, we had a flat tire, which required a little engineering to get it operational, so most of the group took off. The second group then took off and Ron received a flat right before the sprint hill on Horne (I think he planned that). Then our tandem with Nancy and Mike got the last flat before breakfast. Three flats for one day is plenty.....

Breakfast at neighbors was great. Our new riders for the day, Aaron and Renate joined us for their first Sunday breakfast - but we took it easy on them. However, we do have to point out that the purpose for stopping for breakfast is to have breakfast - not lasagna!!!!! - oh to each his own....

That's it for today, have a safe week.

Ride Schedule

June 29 - 6:30 Start Time - Ohcotukeeloop - Off to Ocotillo and then to Ahwatukee. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with a little to a lot of climbing. Breakfast at Good Egg, but if busy, we will go to the Smoothie King.

July 4th - FRIDAY - 6:30 Start Time - Special Edition Ride out of Kiwanis Park. Route is still being finalized with either a trip to downtown Phoenix or a Tour of the Cities. More details to follow, but expect various routes with gentle climbs and breakfast towards the end of the ride.

July 6th - Sunday - 6:30 Start Time - Sunday Spin Cycle is 2 years old - come celebrate with us. Route is being bronzed as we speak.....ok, as I write.....

 

June 21 Saturday Cycling Report

Added June 21, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The summer solstice brought us an absolutely gorgeous morning for a pedal. The pack apparently approved, with 97 riders filling the parking lot in preparation for our journey today. Quick decisions had to be made on route selections with the split between standard and advanced being made about 1/2 mile into the ride. The advanced group made their way east, passing Dobson High, and the traditional broken beer bottle strewn road in front of the school. (Rumors have started that the glass is stratigically placed in the bike lane on Friday nights by employees of local bike stores to crank up bike tube sales.) The climbs later in the ride split the group down into several divisions; the climbers, the sloggers, and the by-passers. Thanks to Mike Litecky and Val Horton for leading out the standard pack.

Coming up...

Saturday 6/28/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. We head to the southeast with a couple of loop options, either on McQueen or Val Vista. Mileage options 25 miles or 36 miles, no climbing. Food stop is Ruby's Diner at Chandler Mall, northwest of Frye & Price. (Hmm, milkshakes for breakfast!)

Sunday 6/29/03 4:30pm to 7:30pm. Val Vista Lakes Clubhouse. Pool party and BBQ! (and a brief club meeting). The club is providing hamburgers, hot dogs, fixin's, and non-alchoholic beverages. You bring a side dish or dessert to share. Family and friends welcome. The clubhouse is located just northeast of Lakeside & Val Vista. Lakeside is the half street between Baseline & Guadalupe. As you head east on Lakeside away from Val Vista, north left (north) into the first parking lot. Please RSVP so we have a head count for the BBQ.

Friday 7/4/03 6:30am Stay tuned-- yes, we will be offering up a holiday ride for anybody who is up for it. Start point and details on the route to follow next week. (Which means we haven't figured it out yet!)

Saturday 7/5/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Sue takes us to the south, on either Queen Creek or Riggs. Mileage options 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Einstein's Bagels, northwest of Guadalupe and McClintock.

Saturday 7/12/03 6:30pm Kiwanis Park. You should be packing your bags to go see the pine trees on the White Mountain Tour on this date. If you aren't, get yourself to the park and we'll think cool thoughts as we take the Tour de Lehi. Mileage options 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, northwest of Mill Ave & 11th.

Tid bits...

You did not see a weekly update last Saturday. This is not because we have taken a dislike to you. It was instead a computer melt down, with loss of data. The SatCycling email bulk list has gone bye-bye. Today's sending is going out to 101 lucky ducks whose addresses have been restored. Considering the prior list had 240 riders on it, we are missing a few people.

Do you know where your front wheel is? Yes, hopefully, when you are in motion on your bike it is attached to your front fork. But where is it in relation to the rest of the world, in particular to other cyclists? When you ride amid others, your front wheel is your life. Guard it. Stay aware of how close it is to other wheels. Take care to not overlap the rear wheel of a rider in front of you. If they shift their line for any reason, and their rear wheel clips your front wheel? One of our college physics profs could probably explain the forces, but the short story is you go boom.

Ride safe.

 

June 15 Spin Cycle Report

Added June 16, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 21 riders today take off for the Father's Day Ride - Happy Father's Day to all the dads. Our route to Germann & Hunt was filled with twists and turns and the usual construction, followed by the lead group not following the map. Oh well, you can send them to school to read and write - but you can't get them to read a map (wow, did that rhyme?).

One way or another, everyone found their way back to the regroup at Albertson's. A few of us took on the long route and saw a few sprints over Queen Creek and 56th Street bridge - won by a new rider "Dog". Actually an old rider (old as in been at the ride a lot, not age - well, he is getting up there), which he was affectionately called during Breakfast. Speaking of Breakfast - Wildflower was unusually busy - but we found a chair and decided to harass the new rider Heidi, telling her all newbies buy breakfast the first time. She didn't go for that, but "Dog" did comment on her "Honey Buns" (i.e., putting Honey on her bread - geez, I know what you was thinking).

That's all - everyone have a good week and a good Father's Day.

Ride Schedule

June 22 - 6:30 Start Time - Tour de Lehi - Off to the town of Lehi and through Mesa. Mileage options of 35 or 40 miles with one gentle "sprint climb". Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe.

June 29 - 6:30 Start Time - Ohcotukeeloop - Off to Ocotillo and then to Ahwatukee. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with a little to a lot of climbing. Breakfast at Good Egg, but if busy, we will go to the Smoothie King.

 

June 8 Spin Cycle Report

Added June 8, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Yaaahoo - 32 riders today - our most in a very long time. Must be the early morning start, or as a few pointed out, that I wasn't riding. Either way - a good crowd.

I was the Sag vehicle today, making sure all of the lost souls returned to the pre-arranged meeting areas. There was even dissent at the start of the ride that the map was incorrect, However, that was quickly reversed as I explained how to actually "READ A MAP" - luckily for me it was correct this time. Ok, just having a little fun here, I did burn a whole 81 calories in my truck today, so I have a little extra energy to burn on the keyboard.

The group stayed together for the most part until the first regroup. We had one group take on the 50 mile edition and another take the 39 mile trek. I saw one sprint bonus today won by Gary, but no other worthy stories other than the tailwind going down University that got the speed up a bit. Must be the new bike Gary got, or knowing he was going to Crackers for Breakfast and couldn't wait - must have been the breakfast...

Seventeen riders, actually 15 riders and my son and I had breakfast - enjoying the conversation of one another and the WOW sites. After that comment at the restaurant, I was "chastised" by boiling coffee - sorry Phil - still couldn't remember what it was - divine chastity??? - OK, enough of the code words - breakfast was great. It was nice to see so many people make it out today - those that haven't ridden in a while - you know who you are - and some new folks - Darlene, Steve, Mary, and Ken - welcome.

Lastly - I would like to say goodbye for the summer to Randy, who will be going to Utah for the summer to help his son. Have fun - send us an email or two so we know how to harass you from a distance...

Ride Schedule

June 15 - 6:30 Start Time - GermannHunt Loop - Head down Germann and then back on Queen Creek. Long route down Queen Creek and up Chandler - Mileage options of 33 or 42 miles. Breakfast at Wildflower in Chandler Mall.

June 22 - 6:30 Start Time - Tour de Lehi - Off to the town of Lehi and through Mesa. Mileage options of 35 or 40 miles with one gentle "sprint climb". Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe.

June 29 - 6:30 Start Time - Ohcotukeeloop - Off to Ocotillo and then to Ahwatukee. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with a little to a lot of climbing. Breakfast at Good Egg, but if busy, we will go to the Smoothie King.

 

June 7 Saturday Cycling Report

Added June 7, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Well, that was a bit of wild ride. Our early start time and offering up one of the pack's favorite routes brought us 89 riders this morning for our journey to Mummy Mountain. The front half of the pack musta been makin' some noise as they went along, because when the rear of the pack passed the zoo the howler monkeys on monkey island were raising such a ruckus we could hear them out on Galvin Parkway. (Maybe sensing some of their own passing by??) The lead group also stirred up the wildlife as they made their way around the mountain, leaving in their wake a bewildered snake to be encountered by Jack as he rolled around a corner trying to catch the field. Thanks to all of our regular riders who lent a hand in keeping things flowing along this morning!

Coming up...

Saturday 6/14/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. We take in the Foothills of Ahwatukee with route options or 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with some moderate climbing. Breakfast at Perkins, northeast corner Chandler Blvd & 54th St.

Saturday 6/21/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. A scenic ramble around on some of the local "climbs" on the St. Francis Loop. Mileage options 26 miles or 36 miles, both with climbing (or you can bypass them if ya want). Breakfast is JB's, northeast of Southern & Dorsey.

Saturday 6/28/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. A loop to the southeast by way of McQueen or Val Vista, mileage options 25 miles or 36 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Ruby's Diner, Chandler Mall, northwest of Frye and Price.

Sunday 6/29/03 4:30pm to 7:30pm. Val Vista Lakes Clubhouse. No, this is not a night ride, but you can pedal to it if you want. It's our quarterly eating and meeting thing. Instead of a breakfast ride meeting, this quarter we are offering up a BBQ and pool party meeting! Val Vista Lakes Clubhouse is just northeast of Val Vista and Lakeside. (Lakeside is the half street between Baseline and Guadalupe). As you head east on Lakeside away from Val Vista, turn north (left) into the first parking lot. There's a beach style pool, sand volleyball, etc. The club will provide hamburgers, hot dogs, fixin's, and non-alcoholic beverages. You bring a side dish or dessert to share. Family and friends are welcome to join in! Please RSVP so we have a head count for the BBQ.

Tid bits...

For many years in this state we have dealt with the dangerous and sometimes deadly issue of mixing cattle guards with cyclists on our roadways. We have an opportunity to take some action to further the goal of reducing this problem. The following note comes to us from the president of the Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists:

***************

ADOT would like to get a committee together to study cattle guard problems for bicyclists, and to identify potential solutions for ADOT facilities. If you may be interested in being on this committee, or can identify an individual who is knowledgeable in this area (it doesn't have to be a government person), please e-mail me back, and I will forward your name to our Roadway Design Group, who will be heading up this committee. Thanks in advance!

Bill Lazenby-Vice President
Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists
P.O.Box 54488
Phoenix, AZ 85078-4488
[602] 493-9222
Email

***********************

Ride safe.

 

June 1 Spin Cycle Report

Added June 1, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Hello all,

We had 26 riders today take on the heat and Tempe Mountains. We had several new riders today, Barry, Frank, Barry, Maria, and some guy named John. You may remember this "some guy named John" as he originally started the Sunday Spin Cycle ride. Welcome back John. I was also impressed with so many riders making the new 6:30 start - well done gang...

Ok, new route, new map - old problem - map wasn't correct. Oh well, we didn't want to change everything overnight did we? We took off and headed down Guadalupe when our new guy John gets a flat. So in typical spin cycle fashion we all stopped and either chatted or helped fix the flat. As John was straining to fill that tire up to 120PSI - the tube exploded. Now that Ron, Gary, Randy, John, and I are all deaf, we proceeded to apply another tube. During this adventure, we noticed that John's tires hadn't been ridden in a while (there was a lot more harassing - but this is a family newsletter), and hence, couldn't hold air. So we gave him about 50PSI and sent him home packing...Just kidding, John decided it was best to go back and get some new tires and meet up with us on the way back. However, being in fine Spin Cycle Fashion, John does get Flat Head of the Week, in addition, he set the new world record for the size of hole he put in his brand new tube. Lastly, John (wow, aren't you glad you came back!!!) you get the dubious honor of fixing the flat in 13 minutes and 29 seconds. While I'm not sure it is the highest we have ever had, it was the most entertaining.

Our new route treated us to Rio Salado, with a slight down hill we picked up the pace to 27-30mph in a few sections. Then we started the hills. Gary got the first king of the mountain points on Galvin Parkway - with Colin saying a few "nice" words as he went by. Then we had the McDowell Mountain, and I believe Gary got those points as well. The Curry KOM points I believe goes to Neal and Larry - with a hard charging Gary coming up.

Off to breakfast we went, with another new adventure, Smoothie King. Overall, I believe it was great, the drinks were cold and the place air conditioned. After sitting for a while and everyone dreading getting back on their bikes in the heat, Maria jumps up and says, "bye, my ride is here!". Needless to say, there was a little harassing going on for getting a ride - even though we had a lengthy 1/2 mile ride left to the park.

Ride Schedule

June 8 - 6:30 Start Time - MckellupeLoop - heading off to Tempe and then trying the wind tunnel of McKellips. We will have three route options - 34, 39, and 45 with gentle climbs. Breakfast at Crackers.

June 15 - 6:30 Start Time - GermannHunt Loop - Head down Germann and then back on Queen Creek. Long route down Queen Creek and up Chandler - Mileage options of 33 or 42 miles. Breakfast at Wildflower in Chandler Mall.

June 22 - 6:30 Start Time - Tour de Lehi - Off to the town of Lehi and through Mesa. Mileage options of 35 or 40 miles with one gentle "sprint climb". Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe.

June 29 - 6:30 Start Time - Ohcotukeeloop - Off to Ocotillo and then to Ahwatukee. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with a little to a lot of climbing. Breakfast at Good Egg, but if busy, we will go to the Smoothie King.

 

July 27 Spin Cycle Report

Added July 27, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 21 riders take on the Milk Run - better known as the Options Tour. I actually scouted the route ahead of time and modified it so we wouldn't hit any major construction - so that is a first for this ride. We still had many routes available, and I believe everyone took at least one and some taking their own. Maria gets the quote of the day when I asked her if she got lost, she promptly responded, "we individualized it." That is good. Maria will be out for a while so good luck and come back so we can get some of your famous quotes.

We had two new riders today, Gary and Del, welcome to Sunday Spin Cycle. Gary had a long commute, from Denver. He came here to cool off!!!!! At the start of the ride, Gary announced that there hadn't been any sprints for the last two weeks while I was on vacation, and I told him I wasn't planning on starting any more today. However, I'm told that there was a little sprint up Riggs overpass won by Gary. See, can't trust him for a minute. Everyone made it back in one way or another and enjoyed some breakfast at Wildflower.

Thanks Gary and Ron for leading the group the last two weeks. Now another favor, need you to do it again next Sunday as I head to Boston and do a two day 200 mile ride.

Ride Schedule

8/3 - Germannlupe - Out to Germann and either Lindsay or Higley. Breakfast at Ripe Tomato - ride options of 33 or 42 miles, all flat.

8/10 - Tempe Mountains - Didn't think there were mountains in Tempe - you are right, it's actually Scottsdale, but the map says Tempe so there you go. Ride options of 38 with little or no hills and 45 with some hills. Breakfast at Smoothie King.

8/17 - Tour de Love Birds - What? You'll have to come out and see. Out to East Mesa, all mostly flat miles. Breakfast at Painted Mountain Golf Resort. - Mileage about 50 but can be made shorter.

8/24 - Mummy Mountain - the orginal - Mileage of 40 or 50 miles with slight to a lot of short hills. Breakfast at Pete's Grill in Tempe.

8/31 - Metro Mania - let's do it again. See how many cities we can hit in a day. Mileage of 36 or 45 miles with some slight hills for the long route. Breakfast at Smoothie King.

 

July 26 Saturday Cycling Report

Added July 26, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Our pack of 84 riders this morning bravely took on conquering the challenge of a new route, to downtown Phoenix. (Actually, this is a an old route that we just haven't done for a coupla years.) We enjoyed the cultural diversity of south Phoenix, took in some thorns, pondered the wide variety of building styles in downtown, took in some glass, contemplated the expansive zoning guidelines on Van Buren, took in some nails. Tom Adams suggested a map title for the route as "Six Flats over Phoenix", which seems appropriate cuz our rides sometimes take on the adventure of a theme park ride!

What did you think about today's route? Would you like to add it back into our rotation of rides? Liked it? Hated it?

Coming up...

Today, Saturday 7/26/03, if you are reading this posting early, you still have time to get yourself to The Vine for the watching of the Tour de France. The Vine is located on Warner, southeast of 48th St. We'll be there from 11am to 1pm. Go Lance!!

Sunday 7/27/03 The Vine, 11am to noon. The Vine. Final stage of the Tour de France. Come see Lance collect his winnings. (Ya know he's gonna take it.)

Saturday 8/2/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. We head to South Mountain. Standard riders will take in the cool, shaded bike path along the canal on the way over, while the express train does the dance of the potholes on Baseline. Several mileage options, with a couple of options of climbing or not climbing. Breakfast at 5&Diner, northwest of Baseline & Priest.

Saturday 8/9/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. It's time for another Tandemania!! We're gonna see just how many tandem teams we can get matched up. If you have a tandem and need a stoker, speak up. If you have legs and wanna stoke, we'll get you matched up with somebody. A nice wide open (no climbing) route to the southeast by way of Lindsay with route options of 29 miles or 36 miles. Breakfast at the Wildflower, northwest of Frye & Price.

Saturday 8/16/03 6:30pm Kiwanis Park. Mary Pierce leads the pack to Ahwatukee (just kidding, Mary). A journey to the foothills with route options of 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with some moderate climbing. Breakfast at Perkins, northeast of Chandler Blvd and 54th St.

Tid bits...

Answering a question to all that was asked this morning, yes, you must sign in at the park every Saturday morning that you pedal with us. Member or not, sign in. If you are not a member of PMBC/GABA, you are signing a waiver. If you are a member of the club, by signing in you are bringing yourself in under the insurance that is provided to you for that day's ride. If you don't sign in, no coverage applies. Give us your autograph each week, that way we'll have lots of copies of it to sell on E-Bay when you become a Tour de France winner.

Ride safe.

 

July 19 Saturday Cycling Report

Added July 20, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The cicadas singing loudly enough at sunrise to wake the roosters was probably a hint that it was going to be a tad warm today. We had 79 riders brave the weather for our journey across McKellips. A number intent on doing the long route decided heading straight to the well airconditioned breakfast stop seemed like a much better plan, and they worked up a nice chill holding us spots at the tables. Mike Litecky earned our top honors today for doing the most elegant Dance of the Rear Tire Stuck in Rut ever seen. Mike, for a big guy, you have some smooth moves!

Coming up...

Saturday 7/26/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. We head to downtown Phoenix, route options of 35 miles or 45 miles, with a moderate climb on the long route. (That short route can also be made shorter for the mileage-challenged.) Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Saturday 7/26/03 11am to 1pm, The Vine. (Warner, SE of 48th St) If you missed today's installment of the Tour de France, you missed some great road racing. Get yourself to the Vine for our last Saturday gathering to cheer Postal on.

Sunday 7/27/03 Tour de France Finale Party! OK, you know we can't miss the last day. Location and time for this gathering is pending, stay tuned and look for details in next Saturday's update.

Saturday 8/2/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Some sick puppy would like us to go to South Mountain in August. We'll go with that, but keep in mind there is more to the park than the death march to the Towers. The standard route that turns around at the Stonehouse (bathrooms) is a great summer ride and the ride to San Juan gives kinder, gentler climbs than the pull to the Towers. Route options 28 miles, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with "you better not do this route unless you are really heat acclimatized" climbing. Breakfast is 5&Diner, northwest of Baseline and Priest.

Tid bits...

Jerseys!! Our re-order of jerseys has appeared. If you didn't pick yours up today, you can either pick them up on a Saturday morning or contact our harding working treasurer Kathy Hendricks to arrange to retrieve yours from her direct.

Ride safe.

 

July 12 Saturday Cycling Report

Added July 13, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The call of the mountain tour reduced our home pack to 50 heat lovin' desert rats this morning. Gettin' sweaty just standing around in the parking lot before leaving gave a hint that the day was gonna be a corker. We made our way through the ballet of the barricades along Brown, not once but twice for good measure. Part of the standard pack stopped in Lehi to check out the bell tower. Ken offered to climb up and ring in it honor of Janet's 40th birthday, but she declined (happy b-day, Janet!) Though we had several new riders out with us today, we also welcomed home with a prodigal son. "Preacher John" Hahn who left us to venture out into life 6 years ago, re-appeared in the pack today, and says we can now officially call him preacher. Welcome back, John.

Coming up...

Saturday 7/12/03 11:00am to 1:00pm, The Vine, Warner southeast of 48th Street. Go Postal! Come on down and cheer our boys in France as they go into the climbing stages.

Saturday 7/19/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The McKellips Loop. Yes, wind training. It's good for you. Builds character. Route options 28 miles or 37 miles, a little gentle climb on each. Breakfast is Neighbors Cafe, northwest of Guadalupe & Alma School.

Saturday 7/19/03 11:00am to 1:00pm, The Vine. One more Saturday post ride bash. Come watch Lance join the ranks of 5 timers.

Saturday 7/26/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Our 4th of July ride to downtown Phoenix got revised to a different route due to, uh, "technical difficulties". Since we have 100 route maps to downtown Phoenix hanging around, we might as well use them! Off we go to downtown, route options or 35 miles or 45 miles, with a moderate climb on the long route. (That short route can also be made shorter for the mileage-challenged.) Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits...

Lots of talk amoung riders about light weight equipment. How much frames weigh, switching to lighter rims and tires, cutting ounces and grams on pedals and what not. While all of that is good, keep in mind for a recreational rider the biggest difference you can make is often right in front of your eyes, in the mirror. : -) If you are more than 5 or 10 pounds over ideal body weight for your build and height, dropping a few pounds of body weight can make a significant improvement in your performance on the bike. And it will make all your non-cycling friends (if you have any of those) envious of your physique.

Ride safe.

 

July 6 Spin Cycle Report

Added July 6, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 30 riders come out and join Spin Cycle on it's second birthday. Although it was a little hot (ok, it was darn HOT - right Gene?), we did end up getting 45 miles with the standard pack getting in 35. I would also like to welcome three new riders, Les, Rocky, and Stan - welcome. We took to the streets with our new route - Metro Mania - hitting 9 cities or metro areas. Here they are in order - Chandler, Gilbert, Mesa, Lehi, Scottsdale, Tempe, Phoenix, Guadalupe, and Ahwatukee. We even went through an unmapped neighborhood in honor of Spin Cycle roots.

Our adventure took a little turn as we started a slight sprint up Horne lead by Sue when Mike got unclipped and did dirty dancing with his top tube. While he managed to stay upright, his chain ring got the better of him, so after Sue patched up his leg, he headed home. We made our way to the first regroup where we encountered our first flat by Les, at least this one was at the regroup so we could have water and shade. Then we headed towards Lehi where Gary got the second flat. While he was changing his tire, the other Mike commented that Gary's bike bag looked like a purse with all of his stuff in there. After the laughs, we were off for a good 3 seconds when Mike flatted - see what happens when you harass a man and his purse.

Off we went again, enjoying the gentle breeze at our back going down McKellips. It's so nice to go with the wind on that road. After making our way along the new route, we stopped at the second regroup where Mike flatted again - that purse thing is going to get you. So we took off again, and heading over the Guadalupe bridge when (you know who) flatted again. After waving down another bike not in our group for a new tube (he was scared Gary was going to go in his purse again), we replaced the tube and headed for breakfast. Mike - you are flat head of the week!

Most of us made it back to Smoothie King for some cool refreshment, only to hear Valerie has a new job at Horne & Broadway. Aaahhh, the things cyclists do to make a buck. That's all for now, I'll see you in two weeks while I head to Wyoming for some COOLER weather. Gary and Ron will be leading the group the next two weeks, so take it easy on them.

Ride Schedule

Sunday 7/13/03 6:30 Desert Breeze - Time to do the Tour around Mummy. Mileage of 35 or 40 miles with some climbs and one big hill if your interested. Gary and Ron are tag team ride leaders for the next two weeks so be gentle - aaahhh heck - give them a hard time. Breakfast at Pete's Grill in Tempe.

Sunday 7/20/03 6:30 Desert Breeze - McKellupleloop - Down to McKellupes with many loops. Mileage of 34, 39, or 50 mostly flat. Breakfast at Crackers since it is Ron's favorite.

Sunday 7/27/03 6:30 Desert Breeze - Milk Run - or better known as Options Tour. Mileage of 36, 38, 40, or 44 miles - all flat. I'm sure there is construction as well, but we'll figure it out. Breakfast at Wildflower at Chandler Mall.

 

July 5 Saturday Cycling Report

Added July 5, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The temptation to get outa Dodge (OK, the valley) for the long weekend reduced our pack to 53 riders today. Those brave souls were greeted with a gorgeous red sky sunrise and a bit of welcome overcast for the first part of the adventure. (Just how did one little cloud give us cover for that long?) The advanced pack enjoyed one of the few open roads left to us with a spin along Riggs while the standard pack conversed their way across Queen Creek and popped out onto McQueen just in time to catch the express train as they came by. Einstein's was excellent, and close back to the park, which gives it high marks for a food stop in the summer!

Coming up...

Saturday 7/5/03 11:00am to 1:00pm. The Vine. Yes, it's that time again. Following today's ride we gather at the Vine in Ahwatukee for the traditional watching of the opening day of the Tour de France. The Vine is located on the south side of Warner, east of 48th Street.

Saturday 7/12/03 6:30pm Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Lehi takes to the cool green roads of one of the oldest comunities in the area. Mileage options 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, northwest of Mill Ave & 11th.

Saturday 7/12/03 11:00am to 1:00pm The Vine. Yup, back we go to cheer our boys in the TDF on!

Saturday 7/19/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The McKellips Loop takes us to the northeast, by way of McKellips (duh!) Road. Mileage options, 28 miles or 37 miles, a little gentle climb on each. Breakfast is Neighbor's Cafe, northwest of Alma School & Guadalupe.

Saturday 7/19/03 11:00am to 1:00pm The Vine. One more time to Go Postal!!

Tid bits...

One of our riders made the unfortunate decision to toss an empty gel packet over his shoulder in the express line this morning... while riding directly in front of your pack leader. A not so gentle reminder-- we leave no sign of our passing except tire tracks. No trash, no spent tubes, no CO2 cartridges along the road. Ride tenderly on the earth. That we know of, it's the only one we have.

Ride safe.

 

August 31 Spin Cycle Report

Added August 31, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We welcomed 19 riders to the group today, taking in a little sun and fun. I pulled a fast one and changed the route to the around Mummy route. Overall, a good day of riding. For the most part, everyone stayed together. I'm not sure, but I think Neal got the points going over Galvin Parkway (need confirmation). King of the Hills honors goes to Gary. But I am calling a foul (as I was drafting him up the hill, he intentionally went to the right next to the bushes just enough so it didn't bother him, but enough for one to come back and swat me in the head). I know I would have won otherwise (OK, and if you believe that, I have a great stock tip for ya....).

We did modify the route slightly, and took Mill all the way down to Baseline, with the group giving a big YaaaaaHooooo as we went under the railroad bridge. We even tried a new place to eat, US Egg on Mill and Baseline. I believe everyone enjoyed the food, and the portions were huge. Have a good Labor Day....

Ride Schedule

Monday 9/1/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. (NOTE THE TIME CHANGE AND LOCATION!!) Celebrate your labor (or lack thereof) with a ride Round The Mountain. One route, 43 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, southeast corner of Rural & Chandler Blvd. Note, this ride will have a follow vehicle, so if you are unsure about taking on the distance, come give it a go and we'll pick up any stragglers.

Sunday 9/7/03 7:00 am (NOTE THE TIME CHANGE) Yes, starting in September we go back to 7:00 am. We'll do the Germannalupe Loop - down Germann to either Lindsey or Higley and back down Guadalupe (hence the name Germannalupe). Mileage options of 33 or 42 miles all flat, breakfast at Ripe Tomatoes.

Sunday 9/14/03 7:00 am - We'll do a Downtown Phoenix ride. We'll head to downtown Phoenix and take in some sights. Mileage options of 45 and 35 with minor climbs. Breakfast at Smoothie King.

Sunday 9/21/03 7:00 am Tempe Mountains - Off to the mountains of Tempe - Do a little climbing and see the College. Mileage options of 38 or 43 miles. Breakfast at US Egg.

Sunday 9/28/03 Ohcotukeeloop - Off to Ocotillo and then to Ahwatukee for some hills. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with moderate to slight climbs. Breakfast at Bruegger Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

 

August 30 Saturday Cycling Report

Added August 30, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Our 79 riders celebrated the last 6:30 start time of the summer this morning... by taking their time getting assembled. But, we finally managed to get all out on the road and underway, headed to 56th Street and parts south. We worked on our riding skills with semi-trucks whizzing by us as we dodged nails (and one pissed off snake) on the shoulder of the road. A follow pack gradually developed over the course of the long route, made up those who didn't quite get the nails dodged. We passed our Sun Lakes pack headed the opposite direction on the route, not once, but twice. Cool to see so many cyclists out and about!

Coming up...

Monday 9/1/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. (NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!!) Celebrate the holiday with a ride Round The Mountain (that would be South Mountain). One route, 43 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, southeast corner of Rural & Chandler Blvd. Note, this ride will have a follow vehicle, so if you are unsure about taking on the distance, come give it a go and we'll pick up any stragglers.

Saturday 9/6/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We head to the northeast on the McKellips Loop. Mileage options 28 miles or 37 miles, a gentle climb on each. Breakfast at Neighbor's Cafe, northwest of Alma School and Guadalupe.

Saturday 9/13/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Our quarterly membership ride/breakfast/meeting. We'll take a spin over to Lehi, and then head back to Kiwanis Park for FREE FOOD after the ride. Route options 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at the park will be across the street to the east from the parking lot we start from, starting at about 9:00am. A brief membership meeting will be held at 9:30am. Breakfast is free to all PMBC/GABA members, non-member breakfast is $4. If you have not joined the association, you can pick up an application any Saturday morning. Annual fee of $15 gets you lotsa cool stuff like a monthly newsletter, insurance, discounts on major rides in the state, and four free breakfasts a year!

Saturday 9/13/03 10:00am Kiwanis Park; (immediately following the membership meeting) Basic Cycling Clinic, by Jay Stewart. This course offers basic tips and instruction for tire repair, bike maintenance and inspection. At the very least, you will learn enough to know when it's time to have the bike shop work on your pride and joy. During this class, we will have an open discussion to address problems and questions people have concerning: bike set up, gearing selection, inspection of the bike and driveline components and tips to help you become a more efficient rider. Learn to love your bike, and love riding it.

Saturday 9/20/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park; The St. Francis Loop takes us on a tour of north Tempe (and bits of Phoenix) with a few hills tossed in for fun. Route options 26 miles or 36 miles, moderate climbing on each. Breakfast at JB's, northeast of Southern and Dorsey.

Tid bits...

The anouncement of start time changes is always greeted by an interesting combination of groans and cheers. We have a pretty even split in the pack of those who like to sleep in a bit vs those who worship the rising sun from their saddle. In answer to the question of why we switch back to 7am "so soon" (can you tell what camp these riders are in?), it's because we want you to ride your bike to the start point and want you to do so in daylight. If you live within a few miles of the park, pedal down that driveway instead of burning gas to drive to the park to go for a bike ride. Make those pre-pack miles your warm up and the miles home your cool down. (OK, it's hard to "cool down" when it's 100 degrees and humid, but you get the point.)

Ride safe.

 

August 24 Spin Cycle Report

Added August 24, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

Today we had 33 riders take on a little humidity and 9 different cities. Although we had a couple of flats, it was a lot more successful than last time and all the flats that we had. Even Mike decided to tell Gary that his man purse wasn't all that bad!!!! The only bad thing with the route today was the wind did not cooperate in its usual pattern. We are accustomed to getting a nice tailwind down McKellips, but we were treated to a slight headwind. Oh well, all to make us work a little harder.

We had a good 15 people at breakfast today, where one in our party decided to do an under the table - table dance! Being the nice guy that I am, I won't publish the name, but for a few bucks, I might be coaxed!!!! Lastly, we say fond farewell and good luck to Valerie, who will be starting a new job and then getting married out of town. Good Luck Valerie!!!!

One other thing, there is a web site called http://www.bikejournal.com. You can track your miles and compare with others around the country as well as those within our club (PMBC). The password to the club is PMBC (how clever).

Ride Schedule

8/31 - 6:30 AM Mummy Mountain - the original - Mileage of 40 or 50 miles with slight to a lot of short hills. Breakfast at Pete's Grill in Tempe.

Monday 9/1/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. (NOTE THE TIME CHANGE AND LOCATION!!) Celebrate your labor (or lack thereof) with a ride Round The Mountain. One route, 43 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, southeast corner of Rural & Chandler Blvd. Note, this ride will have a follow vehicle, so if you are unsure about taking on the distance, come give it a go and we'll pick up any stragglers.

 

August 23 Saturday Cycling Report

Added August 23, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

What's a little rain between friends? Even the threat of wet streets couldn't keep 85 riders from turning out for our adventure to Mummy this morning. OK, we left the park with 85, then had a few turn tail for home when the sprinkle turned to a reasonably heavy rain, but onward the rest forged for what turned out to a slightly damp but great day for a pedal. We sent the express train off first today, with the rest of the pack following at a more sedate pace, taking in the beautiful views and smells that can only be found in Arizona after a rain.

Coming up...

Saturday 8/30/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Sue takes us to the southeast, by way of either Riggs or Queen Creek. Route options 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einy's (Einstein Bagels), northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Monday 9/1/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. (NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!!) Celebrate your labor (or lack thereof) with a ride Round The Mountain. One route, 43 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, southeast corner of Rural & Chandler Blvd. Note, this ride will have a follow vehicle, so if you are unsure about taking on the distance, come give it a go and we'll pick up any stragglers.

Saturday 9/6/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We head to the northeast on the McKellips Loop. Mileage options 28 miles or 37 miles, a gentle climb on each. Breakfast at Neighbor's Cafe, northwest of Alma School and Guadalupe.

Saturday 9/13/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Yes, the thing you all anticipate so greatly... FREE FOOD! And of course, a bike ride. Our quarterly membership ride/breakfast/meeting. We'll be taking a spin over to Lehi, and then head back to Kiwanis Park for eats after the ride. Route options 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast will be served at Kiwanis Park, across the street to the east from the parking lot we start from, starting at about 9:00am. A brief membership meeting will be held at 9:30am. Breakfast is free to all PMBC/GABA members. If you have not joined the association, you can pick up an application any Saturday morning or head to our website at www.sportsfun.com/gaba/ Annual fee of $15 gets you lotsa cool stuff like a monthly newsletter, insurance, discounts on major rides in the state, and four free breakfasts a year!

Tid bits...

Valarie Horton, who has held a spot in our standard pack for a number of years, is taking on a few life changes. A new job, in a new state... and she's going to throw a marriage into the mix. Val, from us all, we wish you and Tony the very best that life can offer. We understand that you are going to leave your bike shoes under Bill Jacobson's bed (with Sharon's approval of course) and that you will occasionaly make celebrity visits back with us, tandeming with Bill. Haven't even left yet and you are making plans to visit? We'll hold you spot in line. Miss you already.

Ride safe.

 

August 17 Spin Cycle Report

Added August 21, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

At last, the long awaited spin cycle report. Ah, a little computer problems, but all is fixed now. Let's see, we had 22 riders take off this last Sunday. We welcomed a new rider to our ranks, Sarah, hope you can make it again. Today's route took us to see the Love Birds in East Mesa. For the most part, it was a pretty good ride with not a lot of heat. While I can go on and on about who won the sprints (me, me, me....), can you tell Gary wasn't around, I thought I would do a little coaching via email. For those that rode with us on Sunday, some of this is repetitive, but a few more details added in.

Our topic today is riding in a pace line, what to do, and what NOT to do.

1) While riding in a pace line, keep your head up at all times. One common mistake I see is people either looking down at their feet, gears, or something else along the road. If someone makes a quick move, you may not be able to stop or maneuver in time.

2) Don't just look at the person's tire in front of you. Keep looking ahead as well, looking for debris or what the other riders in front are doing.

3) Don't go "hands free" in a pace line. This puts everyone around you in danger. If you need to rest your hands or want to show off to your friends, go to an extreme side or to the back of the pace line.

4) Point out the debris, holes, railroad tracks etc. along the road. This is not only the lead person's responsibility, but everyone else's along the pace line. If the person in the lead points something out and no one else does, a person in the back may hit it.

5) Don't overlap tires. Keep your front tire behind the person in front of you. If they make a quick maneuver, you may not be able to react in time.

6) When you are in the front, don't stay up there until you are dead tired, you may not be able to get back on the pace line. Every person has different fitness levels, and the beauty of pace lines is to conserve energy at higher speeds. So, do your time, whether that is 15 seconds, 1 minute, or a mile, do what feels comfortable so you can get back and enjoy some air or lack thereof.

7) When you are ready to rotate off the front, the best way to let the person behind you know your intentions is to lightly tap your thigh or hip. Try not to loose speed in doing so, but gradually move to the side and then rotate to the rear.

8) If you are the next rider in line to take the lead and you want to speed up, DON'T. Allow the person who just got done pulling enough time to get on the back of the pace line. Maintain the previous speed and GRADUALLY pick up the pace.

9) When starting from stop lights, stop signs or over major railroads, don't sprint. If there is a big pace line, the people in the rear are not clipped in by the time you have some speed up. Start steady and gradually pick up the pace.

10) The best way to enjoy a pace line is for the group to pick a speed and stick with it. This avoids the yo-yo effect.

I hope this helps. If there are other questions that you have during our rides or not sure what is the right thing to do, please ask. Ok, coaching over, back to your regularly scheduled program.

Ride Schedule

8/24 - 6:30 AM Metro Mania - Let's do it again. See how many cities we can hit in a day. Mileage of 36 or 45 miles with some slight hills for the long route. Breakfast at Smoothie King.

8/31 - 6:30 AM Mummy Mountain - The original - Mileage of 40 or 50 miles with slight to a lot of short hills. Breakfast at Pete's Grill in Tempe.

Monday 9/1/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. (NOTE THE TIME CHANGE AND LOCATION!!) Celebrate your labor (or lack thereof) with a ride Round The Mountain. One route, 43 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, southeast corner of Rural & Chandler Blvd. Note, this ride will have a follow vehicle, so if you are unsure about taking on the distance, come give it a go and we'll pick up any stragglers.

 

August 16 Saturday Cycling Report

Added August 16, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Cloudy skies and reasonably cool breezes welcomed our 89 riders at the park this morning. The overcast soon gave way to sunshine, but with the heat kept to a minimum for our journey to the foothills. Our oversize pack soon encountered not only the Honeywell riders but also the White Mountain team all getting their workout in the hills, which made for one of those "cyclists everywhere you look" kinda rides for us. So cool to see that many people out and about on bikes! Village Inn managed to seat and serve our rather large party, offering good food and great service. Nice to have a restaurant welcome our motley crew's arrival!

Coming up...

Saturday 8/23/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. A pack favorite, Mummy Mountain, traditional route. Mileage options 27 miles with some moderate climbing, or 40 miles with a couple of additional climbs. Breakfast Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill & 11th. (Hmm... could this be the day we top 100 riders in the pack?? Stay tuned...)

Saturday 8/30/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Sue takes us to the southeast, by way of either Riggs or Queen Creek. Route options 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einy's (Einstein Bagels), northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Monday 9/1/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. (NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!!) Celebrate your labor (or lack thereof) with a ride Round The Mountain. One route, 43 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, southeast corner of Rural & Chandler Blvd. Note, this ride will have a follow vehicle, so if you are unsure about taking on the distance, come give it a go and we'll pick up any stragglers.

Saturday 9/6/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Sometimes riders request a route, but sometimes they just request a restaurant! We head on the McKellips route for no other reason than it brings us to Neighbor's Cafe for breakfast. Mileage options 28 miles or 37 miles, a gentle climb on each.

Tid bits...

The Doors. Yes, a singing group, but also a hazard for cyclists. Just a reminder, when we return to the park from the south and pass the soccer fields along All America Way, and when we pass through downtown Tempe on Mill, be aware of car doors. When you are riding in a bike lane that is to the left of cars street parked, be ever so watchful for car doors popping open. If the car windows are not tinted, look through the rear window for someone in the drivers seat. Look in their left side mirror for a reflection of someone there. Leave a door-width of room between you and the car.

Ride safe.

 

August 10 Spin Cycle Report

Added August 10, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 28 riders take on the heat today. It was hot, darn hot. We had a new rider for the day, David, welcome aboard. After telling everyone how many errors were on the Tempe Mountains map, we were off. Nothing too much exciting happened at first, except for a few lights, but right before our first regroup, we encountered our first flat of the day (Lance). So, once we all were together, we took off for a good 100 yards and another flat (this time it was speedy Tim). After waiting for the train to go by on Extension, we were off again, oops, not quite, Lance encountered another flat (at least it was on the other wheel).

We were off again, at least another mile and we encountered another flat, this time from PMBC pres Bob. So we found some shade, when Carter mentioned that the guy on crutches had lapped us twice (it was only once, but the comment was pretty funny). So we were off again, enjoying the sites, speeding down Rio Salado with a little tail wind. Biking was good! Then we encountered another flat - this time Simon was on the side of the road. In addition, going down Rio Salado, Valerie encountered a flat as well. Up and over Galvin Parkway we went, with a few sprints at the top I'm sure.

Once we were all regrouped again - we headed over Curry and just about to turn on Mill when we received our last flat from Sue. Did you count them, seven in all. Ok, everyone who got flats needs a new bike! Actually, this is a good reminder for everyone to check your tires, looking for cuts, glass, excessive wear, or anything else that doesn't belong.

Thanks to Gary for leading the group last week, I'm sure it was fun, but certainly not as eventful as today....I switched the last two routes around since Saturday Cycling is doing Mummy on 8/23, we don't need to do it twice in the same week.

8/17 - Tour de Love Birds - What? You'll have to come out and see. Out to East Mesa, all mostly flat miles. Breakfast at Painted Mountain Golf Resort. - Mileage about 50 but can be made shorter.

8/24 - Metro Mania - let's do it again. See how many cities we can hit in a day. Mileage of 36 or 45 miles with some slight hills for the long route. Breakfast at Smoothie King.

8/31 - Mummy Mountain - the original - Mileage of 40 or 50 miles with slight to a lot of short hills. Breakfast at Pete's Grill in Tempe.

 

August 9 Saturday Cycling Report

Added August 10, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 79 riders head out of the park, but on only about 70 bikes, for our double your adventure ride today. A couple of interesting (?) teams matched up. The route down the newly completed sections of Lindsay was most excellent. The not so completed portions of Lindsay were rough, but we needed something to slow down Steve Fahrner anyway, so it was all good. The air got a bit thick down by the alfalfa fields, with humidity and bugs, encouraging the line to pick up the pace again under the theory that if you ride hard enough, the bugs bounce off, instead of sticking. A pit stop for cold water, then on to breakfast, where the blast of a/c'd air at the restaurant doors was welcomed as much as the food.

Coming up...

Saturday 8/16/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Ahwatukee Foothills, or Ahwatukee Flats (!) if you are skipping the climbing. Mileage options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast is not at Perkins, because we have apparently managed to eat them right out of business. Eats will instead be at Village Inn, northwest of Hardy and Elliott.

Saturday 8/23/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain, traditional route. Mileage options 27 miles with some moderate climbing, or 40 miles with a couple of additional climbs. Breakfast Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Saturday 8/30/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Tour de Sue takes us down to one of our last routes out in the open, Riggs Road. Or take the Tour de Subdivision standard route on Queen Creek. Route options 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einy's (Einstein Bagels), northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Monday 9/1/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. (NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!!) Of course we'll have a holiday ride! That's what days off from work are for, right? Since we'll be into the cool days of September (?) we'll head Round The Mountain. One route, 43 miles, no climbing. Standard riders and beginners, if you want to come give this route a try, we'll have a sweep truck available to come scoop you up if you get too pooped to pedal. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, southeast corner Rural & Chandler Blvd.

Tid bits...

At this time of year we start picking up new riders in the group that are literally new cyclists, just learning our sport. We are a training location for riders who will be participating in the MS150 ride in November. They are with us to not only build up their physical ability on the bike, but also to learn the skills needed to be a cyclist. Be aware that riders around you may not know the dance we are doing. Leave a little more room for stopping, stay focused on the riders around you. Let them learn from you-- use hand signals, ride consistently, obey the rules of the road.

Ride safe.

 

August 2 Saturday Cycling Report

Added August 2, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Yes, the adventure continues. Our pack of 92 riders was encouraged to take the Highline Canal pathway to South Mountain today, to avoid the poor road surface conditions and traffic on Baseline. Little did we know that the storm this week washed half of South Mountain down the hill and across the path, bringing with it debris, sand, and at least one full size tree. The mountain bikers in the crowd saw no problem with this turn of events, but the skinny tired herd got a bit skittish. All managed to make their way through and on to the park we went. The wind and rain also apparently washed new gunk onto the roads as frequent flat tire clinics were held throughout the morning. Part of the group braved the heat and headed to the towers. They later called down to base camp to advise they were abandoning a rider who had somehow managed to drop his wedding ring along the Tower road, and who was refusing to come down off the mountain without it.

Coming up...

Saturday 8/9/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Tandemania! Double up day, we're gonna see just how many tandem teams we can get matched up in the pack. A nice flat (shouldn't use that word, huh?) loop to the southeast by way of the newly re-constructed Lindsay Road. Mileage options 29 miles or 36 miles. Breakfast is the Wildflower, northwest of Frye and Price (Chandler Mall).

Saturday 8/16/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. We head to the hills of Ahwatukee. Mileage options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast is Perkins, northeast corner Chandler Blvd and 54th St.

Saturday 8/23/03 6:30am Kiwanis Park. We return to Mummy Mountain (to recover the riders we lost the last time we went there!) Mileage options 27 miles with some moderate climbing, or 40 miles with a couple of additional climbs. Breakfast Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits...

One of the neato benefits of your PMBC/GABA membership is four free breakfasts a year. In answer to a question asked this morning, the next freebie eats day is scheduled for Saturday 9/13/03 following Saturday Cycling's ride. If you have not joined the association, pick up a membership form any Saturday morning or get one here.

Ride safe.

 

September 28 Spin Cycle Report

Added September 28, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 19 riders take on the Tempe Mountains today. We were welcomed by 4 new riders, and one who hadn't been around for awhile. Before we even got started, the group was giving me grief, with Mr. Arle saying the ad for today's ride was misleading. I believe he was referring to the Tempe mountains. Well, if you remember going over Curry, and then over the huge bridge over US60, them be hills...

The group kept a good pace to our first regroup, and we even picked up two more additional riders along the way training for the MS150. After the regroup, yours truly suffered a flat, so a few hung back with me as John and a few others took off (John affectionately refers to himself as a sloth, but I won't call the rest that, unless they designate themselves as one like John!!). After we repaired my tire, the 5 of us took off chasing Mr. Sloth and company. While we managed to catch the sloth on Galvin, a few others had slipped out. However, we did catch everyone on McDowell, however, it took two flats from the lead group for us to catch them.

Breakfast at Smoothie King was good, with Chad getting the dubious honor of the King of Smoothie. Let's just say that he was eyeing more than just a smoothie, but couldn't figure how to eat it all and would then have to resort to finding a place in his spandex to fit it...

Enough of that, upcoming ride Schedule...

10/5 - 7:00 AM - McKellips Loop. Off to McKellips and the wind tunnel, with options of 34, 39, or 50 miles. Breakfast at Crackers. Hoping either Ron or Gary can help lead this ride as I will be in Boston for the weekend. oh please oh please...

10/12 - 7:00 AM - Tour of Scottsdale. John Arle will lead the group with a Tour of Scottsdale. Not sure of the exact route, mileage, or breakfast stop, but will have updates prior.

10/19 - 7:00 AM - Tour around South Mountain. One mileage of 50, with breakfast at Bagel Nosh. If there is some interest, we can make a trek up South Mountain on the way back.

10/26 - 7:00 AM - Metro Mania - See how many towns, cities and little places we can hit in a day. Route options of 36 or 45 miles with some light climbs on the longer route. Breakfast at Good Egg or Smoothie King - depending on interest.

In addition to all of these rides, check out the web site for all of the major rides coming up in the fall.

September 27 Saturday Cycling Report

Added September 27, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The September sunrise brought us 95 riders for our adventure to South Mountain this morning. Some of the riders who made their way over by way of the High Line Canal path were lucky enough to experience a rare sighting of the mysterious canal swamp creature (which for some reason resembled [let's keep his identity mysterious - Editor] hiding behind some bushes). Once we made it to the StoneHouse, a few braved the rotty asphalt for the pedal to San Juan, but most attempted at least some version of the Tower road... with some actually arriving at the top. The rumors that Tom O'Leary was last seen dead under a shade tree at the Towers parking lot were found to be false... he says he was just laying verrrry still with his eyes closed. Recovery milkshakes and pancakes were consumed with exuberance at the 5&Diner, where some braved the warmth of patio (and Bob Bogle's singing to make up for the patio speakers not working) while others sucked up the a/c inside. A reasonably good time was had by all.

Coming up...

Saturday 10/4/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Off to Ahwatukee we go. Route options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast Village Inn, northwest of Elliot & Hardy.

Saturday 10/11/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. If you are not headed to the Memorial Ride For Safety on this date, joins us for the Lindsay Loop, to the southeast, with route options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at the WildFlower Cafe, northwest of Frye and Price.

Saturday 10/18/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. If you are not headed to Tour de Farm out at Schnepf Farms, come join us for a ramble on the Greenbelt. We'll check out the Rio Salado path and then follow the Greenbelt into Scottsdale. One route, 29 miles, no climbing. (Yes, advanced riders, this will be a moderate ride... if you wanna honk like light speed... get yourself to the Tour de Farm to strut your stuff.) Breakfast is Brueggers Bagels, Mill & 11th.

Tid bits...

If you are having trouble keeping up with all the upcoming event rides, check out the ride calendar.

Somebody asked how to get hooked up with the SRP team for the MS150. You can do so by contacting Melissa Gauman.

And last, we are running a reasonably large cycling club here. Some of the worker bees you see are apparent... people working as ride leaders, or officers you see at club meetings... but we have some members that keep our train rolling along that you never see in front of the crowd... people like our webmaster, our newsletter editor, people who handle memberships, etc. One of those worker bees has been riding point for three years and needs to draft for a bit. Mike Morross, our hard working newsletter editor would like to retire and hand off the pen to another creative writer. Do we have anyone in the pack who would be interested in stepping up to act as our editor? If you would like details on what is involved with the job, estimated hours, etc., feel free to ask Mike Morross.

Ride safe.

 

---

September 21 Spin Cycle Report

Added September 22, 2003

written by John Arle

Desert Breeze Park, Chandler, AZ - Twenty-eight riders took to the Ohcotukee Loop this find Sunday morning. We had one new rider to welcome and by what I could see (as he faded into the distance in front of me), Tom did just fine with the group. After a nice warmup to the first regroup (setting a record of 30 seconds to get everyone together and back out on the road) the "Heavy-Duty" cyclists kicked it into high gear crunching 30 mph westbound on Queen Creek. Meanwhile, the "mature pace" set in the lanterne rouge made their way along at a much more comfortable and reasonable pace. Regroup two ran a bit longer and three of the group decided we were a bit too close to Bruegger's to be denied. East they went to enjoy an early breakfast. The rest of the pack continued to the west and down to Pecos for another power drive down Pecos. Once again, so I'm told, the pace went back to something starting with a "3" as everyone worked well together taking short pulls at the high pace. Nicely done, group!

Again displaying my skill of "leading" from the rear, I reversed the route and met the buzzing hornets as they crested out on Desert Foothills. By all reports, Larry led the pack up over the hill taking the polka dot honors for the day. Down at Circle K II, we were honored by Gary reporting in for duty. Apparently he was a bit sleep challenged and missed our official 7:00 start. No worries, my friend, we're glad you made it under ANY circumstances.

On we pushed returning to the east to dine at Brugger's. 16 reported in for chow and sprite conversation.

Glen reports back in for duty next week as the Spin Cycle returns to challenge the Tempe Mountains route. If you weren't in the ranks today, I hope to see you next week, BECAUSE, it is YOU that makes the Spin Cycle.

Have a great week everybody!!

Ride Schedule

Sunday 9/28/03 7:00 am Tempe Mountains - Off to the mountains of Tempe - Do a little climbing and see the College. Mileage options of 38 or 43 miles. Breakfast at US Egg.

 

September 20 Saturday Cycling Report

Added September 20, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

A gorgeous September morning brought us 92 souls (or 184 soles, depending on your perspective) for our journey around town. Many new riders coming in to prep for the MS150... our newbies learned about hand signals today and we had lots of exuberbant arm flapping and hand flailings going on for the remainder of the ride. The twists and turns of the route gave way to that fun adventure of having pack riders passing through intersections from all directions at the same time. JB's was sorta ready for us, with tables prepped, but seemed a little stunned by our power eating. Obviously not familiar with our club motto "We ride to eat!".

Coming up...

Saturday 9/27/03 7:00 Kiwanis Park. We head to South Mountain, either to the StoneHouse, to San Juan, or to the Towers (eek!). Route options 28 miles with gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, 42 miles with lotsa climbing. Breakfast 5&Diner, northwest of Baseline & Priest.

Saturday 10/4/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The Ahwatukee Foothills are calling us. Route options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast Village Inn, northwest of Elliot & Hardy.

Saturday 10/11/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The Lindsay Loop takes us to the southeast, with route options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at the WildFlower Cafe, northwest of Frye and Price.

Tid bits...

The rides are coming! The rides are coming!! There are so many adventurous group rides coming up in the next couple of months, it's had to choose which ones you want to do. We'll have registration forms/flyers for many of the rides at the Saturday start point-- but there are couple more we want to make mention of:

The very popular Tour de Farm will be held on Saturday October 18th. Start point will again be Schnepf Farms down to the southeast in Queen Creek. They have gone high tech, with on-line registration. They are offering up a 12 mile family ride, a 30 mile route, and a 60 mile route this year.

On Sunday October 26th West Valley GABA hosts the Palo Verde Nuclear Century in the west valley (duh!)... but if that one is too much for you head to Kiwanis Park on that same date for the Tour de Tempe. This is a fun free community family ride. Distance is about 18 miles. First 750 riders to register (you can pre-register or register day of the ride) get a free event t-shirt. The ride starts at 8am, come early for a bike festival in the parking lot from 7am to 8am, lotsa freebie stuff.

Ride safe.

 

September 14 Spin Cycle Report

Added September 14, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 31 riders take the route to downtown Phoenix today. It's just about fall in AZ, so all of the riders are coming out, which is a good thing, because I'm getting sick of the heat as well. Overall, a great ride. Even though we had a little detour at Washington for a street party (I tried to spell what it was, but I don't think I even came close). If I'm right, only one flat for today, which isn't bad for this group and route. A little wind on the way back made pace lining that more important.

For those that are starting to put in a few extra miles getting ready for the fall rides, let me know and maybe we can coordinate something. I'm either considering adding a longer route to our existing rides, or doing some extra miles after breakfast. The later is going to be a better option once the weather starts to cool down more.

Some info:

A word from our Prez, Bob Beane asks assist with the following:
We have been asked to evaluate the cities of Mesa and Gilbert with respect to their applications to be designated as Bicycle Friendly Communities. We would like to get input from the membership before we respond to the survey. Comments (positive or negative) may be e-mailed to Bob Beane or phone at (480) 961-1951.

If you're interested in joining PMBC, which I highly recommend, here is the membership form.

Ride Schedule

Sunday 9/21/03 Ohcotukeeloop - Off to Ocotillo and then to Ahwatukee for some hills. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with moderate to slight climbs. Breakfast at Bruegger Bagels on Chandler & Rural. John Arle will be leading the ride while I play hooky.

Sunday 9/28/03 7:00 am Tempe Mountains - Off to the mountains of Tempe - Do a little climbing and see the College. Mileage options of 38 or 43 miles. Breakfast at US Egg.

 

September 13 Saturday Cycling Report

Added September 13, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The beautiful September morning and the offer of free eats brought us 78 riders this morning. The group made it's way around various versions of the route, and were then joined back at the park by the Sun Lakes gang and a few other assorted riders who appeared for the chow. Many bagels were consumed, we listened intently to the association's brief quarterly meeting, and then Jay Stewart offered up a course on bike basics. Cycling, eating, talking about cycling... a perfect morning! Thanks to Jack and Buddy for riding sweep on the pack today.

Coming up...

Saturday 9/20/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The St. Francis Loop gives us a scenic view of north Tempe, with a few climbs thrown in for kicks. (You can by-pass the climbs if you don't need anymore kicks in your life.) Route options 26 miles or 36 miles, moderate climbing. Breakfast is JB's, northeast of Southern & Dorsey.

Saturday 9/27/03 7:00 Kiwanis Park. The somewhat cool mornings make for a good time to head to the mountain, South Mountain that is. Route options 28 miles with gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, 42 miles with lotsa climbing. Breakfast 5&Diner, northwest of Baseline & Priest.

Saturday 10/4/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Off to the foothills of Ahwatukee we head. Route options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast Village Inn, northwest of Elliot & Hardy.

Tid bits...

Next Sunday 9/21 is the Arizona State Championship road race in Prescott. A reminder, you do not have to be affiliated with a racing team to enter the state events. Fast pack? This is your chance to strut your stuff. If you have not entered the event and need info, check at http://www.wmrc.org/.

A word from our Prez, Bob Beane asks assist with the following:
We have been asked to evaluate the cities of Mesa and Gilbert with respect to their applications to be designated as Bicycle Friendly Communities. We would like to get input from the membership before we respond to the survey. Comments (positive or negative) may be e-mailed to Bob Beane or phone at (480) 961-1951).

And, to those from the old days of Allied Signal, both the team and employees... and for the riders who have been involved for many years with the Arizona MS150, we have lost one of our champions. Tim Davis, cyclist and motorcycle enthusiast lost his life a few days ago in a motorcycle accident. Details on service time and place are still pending, probably will be on Thursday 9/18 afternoon.

Ride safe.

 

September 7 Spin Cycle Report

Added September 11, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 17 new riders today take off for a modified Germannalupe loop. We changed the direction and went down Guadalupe first and then to Higley or Lindsay and then back on Germann. Our breakfast stop was Ruby's Diner, with only 3 of us enjoying the food (something you want to tell me!). We welcomed a new rider today, Ben, hope you can make it again.

Our route enjoyed sunshine and a little wet roads from a downpour that we just missed. Enough to make me have to clean my bike again (uuuggghhh). We also had a string of flats today, with Mike getting one right out of the gate, then Judy getting one right at the first regroup. Then Tim get's the big award for the blow a hole in your tire! He booted it with a dollar bill, but I guess it didn't last and had to get sagged in. I told him he should have used that $100, I'm sure it would have lasted then...

Ride Schedule --- change from last week - we'll do Tempe Mountains last since Saturday Cycling is doing the same route on that Saturday!

Sunday 9/14/03 7:00 am - We'll do a Downtown Phoenix ride. We'll head to downtown Phoenix and take in some sights. Mileage options of 45 and 35 with minor climbs. Breakfast at Smoothie King.

Sunday 9/21/03 Ohcotukeeloop - Off to Ocotillo and then to Ahwatukee for some hills. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with moderate to slight climbs. Breakfast at Bruegger Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

Sunday 9/28/03 7:00 am Tempe Mountains - Off to the mountains of Tempe - Do a little climbing and see the College. Mileage options of 38 or 43 miles. Breakfast at US Egg.

 

September 6 Saturday Cycling Report

Added September 6, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

A cool breeze just after sunrise enticed 86 riders to join us for our morning's adventure today. Isn't September the sweetest month? It's like a reward for surviving the summer. A shifting wind gave us a bit of encouragement from every direction. Even the traditional head wind across McKellips was more of cross wind. Those that took the standard route found that Brown is now not only not accessible, it's barely crossable. Eh, what's a little dirt between friends? We managed to seat 38 riders at the ever welcoming Neighbor's Cafe. To all our newbies in the pack, welcome, hope you enjoyed the journey!

Coming up...

Saturday 9/13/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Our quarterly membership ride/breakfast/meeting takes us on a spin to Lehi and then back to Kiwanis Park for FREE FOOD after the ride. Route options 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at the park will start at about 9:00am. A brief membership meeting will be held at 9:30am. Breakfast is free to all PMBC/GABA members, non-member breakfast is $4. If you have not joined the association, you can pick up an application any Saturday morning or head to our website at www.sportsfun.com/gaba/ Annual fee of $15 gets you a monthly newsletter, insurance, discounts on major rides in the state, and four free breakfasts a year! (Yes, if you join this week or by Saturday morning, you get FREE CHOW on Saturday!)

Saturday 9/13/03 10:00am Kiwanis Park. (immediately following the membership meeting) Basic Cycling Clinic, by Jay Stewart. This course offers basic tips and instruction for tire repair, bike maintenance and inspection. During this class, we will have an open discussion to address problems and questions people have concerning: bike set up, gearing selection, inspection of the bike and driveline components and tips to help you become a more efficient rider.

Saturday 9/20/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The St. Francis Loop takes us on a tour of north Tempe (and bits of Phoenix) with a few hills tossed in for fun. Route options 26 miles or 36 miles, moderate climbing on each. Breakfast at JB's, northeast of Southern and Dorsey.

Saturday 9/27/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park Getting ready for some of the big rides this fall? Build that power with a trip to the Towers (that would be the TV towers at the top of South Mountain for the newbies). We head to South Mountain with three route options-- no climbing, moderate climbing, and yikes! Breakfast at 5&Diner, northwest of Baseline and Priest.

Tid bits...

Bike bottles come in a couple of sizes... for a reason. If you are a vertically challenged rider and ride a small frame, like 48cm or under, or a frame with compact geometry, you should select a 2/3 or 3/4 height bottle. Gals or junior riders with smaller paws also find them easier to work with. The "tall" or "full" size bottles will be awkward to get in and out of the cage, increasing your chances of a bottle drop in the pack (which is not a good thing). Being able to comfortably and safely use your bottles while in motion on the bike is an important skill to develop if you going to cycle in our warm climate-- even in lovely September!

Ride safe.

 

October 25 Saturday Cycling Report

Added October 27, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Thanks to Bob Beane for stepping in to lead the pack yesterday. He reports that 75 riders headed out of the park into the first chilly Saturday morning of the fall. The cool air brought a quick stroke to the group and they headed northbound to check out Scottsdale at a frisky pace. A few riders took the low ride while most did the high road, with some taking on the out and back king of the mountain climb, now dubbed "Stairway to Heaven" (due to increased probability of cardiac arrest as you reach the top!)

Coming up...

Saturday 11/1/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Note the time change! The Tour de Sue takes us to the south, with options on Queen Creek or Riggs, mileage 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, southeast corner Chandler Blvd & Rural.

Saturday 11/8/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. We head to the northeast on the McKellips Loops. Route options 28 miles or 37 miles, one gentle climb on each. Breakfast Neighbor's Cafe, northwest of Guadalupe and Dobson.

Saturday 11/15/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Off to South Mountain we go, to the StoneHouse, San Juan, or the Towers. Various route options. Breakfast 5&Diner, northwest of Baseline and Priest.

Ride safe.

 

October 26 Spin Cycle Report

Added October 26, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had a whopping 14 riders today. I suspect a few headed to the Palo Verde Century, and other wimps (I mean riders) decided to take the day off after the Sedona Century (you know who you are). The rest of us enjoyed the coolest day of the fall so far, with Carter sporting arm warmers. We took off and was instantly greeted with a nice cool wind, directly in our face. That made the pace making a little slower, but all told wasn't too bad (that's because I didn't pull very much!).

Once we started going North, it was more of a cross wind, which helped a little, and then were treated to a mostly tailwind down McKellips. Everyone pretty much stayed together except for two who took an early detour to Breakfast. All told, a nice ride.

Important information, starting next Sunday, we move to 7:30 AM start time.

Ride Schedule

11/ 2 7:30 AM Start Time - NOTICE NEW TIME FOR NOVEMBER - We'll take a ramble to Sacaton, that is if I can wrestle the map away from Sue. Breakfast at Wildflower at Chandler Mall. Mileage options of 40 & 50 miles, all flat.

11/16 7:30 AM - Tour Around Mummy mountain. A route to Scottsdale and around Mummy Mountain. Mileage options of 35 or 40 miles, with moderate climbing. Breakfast at US Egg on Mill & Baseline.

11/23 7:30 AM - Recovery ride after Tour of Tucson - we'll take a the Germannalupe Loop - down Guadalupe and back on Germann. Mileage options of 33 or 42, with breakfast at Ruby's Diner.

11/30 7:30 AM - Recovery ride after Thanksgiving - We'll take a ride to Downtown Phoenix. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles, breakfast at Smoothie King.

 

October 19 Spin Cycle Report

Added October 19, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 26 riders take off for today's ride. We also had a couple of new riders, Joe, Brian, Stacey, and Colleen. Our route today was around South Mountain. Along the way, we saw Rick and Kathleen Marquis, so Rick hitched a ride in to the first regroup. Overall, a great day to ride, nice smooth road, and hardly any traffic lights. A few decided to do some extra miles, so they went up to San Juan and back. All told, a great ride, but I'm ready for it to be a little cooler next time on this route.

Ride Schedule

10/26 - 7:00 AM Metro Mania - See how many towns, cities and little places we can hit in a day. Route options of 36 or 45 miles with some light climbs on the longer route. Breakfast at Good Egg or Smoothie King - depending on interest.

11/2 - 7:30 AM Start Time - NOTICE NEW TIME FOR NOVEMBER - We'll take a ramble to Sacaton, that is if I can wrestle the map away from Sue. Breakfast at Wildflower at Chandler Mall. More details to follow.

11/16 7:30 AM - Tour Around Mummy Mountain. A route to Scottsdale and around Mummy Mountain. Mileage options of 35 or 40 miles, with moderate climbing. Breakfast at US Egg on Mill & Baseline.

 

October 18 Saturday Cycling Report

Added October 18, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The draw of the Tour de Farm reduced our home team to 39 riders this morning, but they still were a force to be reckoned with as we rambled the bike paths. Lotsa ducks, dogs, joggers, etc... mix in some construction... and you have a grand adventure. The ride along the Tempe Lake was beautiful and the Greenbelt was, well... green! We managed to gradually lose riders as we went along, but they were replaced by other riders who missed the start at the park, so it all worked out nicely.

Coming up...

Saturday 10/25/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The Mummyback route takes us north to both Mummy and Camelback Mountain. Route options 28 miles with one moderate climb or 35 miles with an extra goofy steep climb (which you can by-pass if you want). Breakfast Pete's 19th Tee, north of Mill and Curry.

Saturday 11/1/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Note the time change! The Tour de Sue takes us to the south, with options on Queen Creek or Riggs, mileage 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, southeast corner Chandler Blvd & Rural.

Saturday 11/8/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. The McKellips Loop takes us to the northeast with route options of 28 miles or 37 miles, one gentle climb on each. Breakfast is Neighbor's Cafe, northwest of Alma School and Guadalupe.

Tid bits...

Last call for worker bees. If you are not headed to the Palo Verde Nuke ride next Sunday (10/26) we are in need of some riders to help with the Tour of Tempe community ride. Our club provides the ride "marshalls" to assist during the ride. Need you to appear at Kiwanis Park, next parking lot south of ours, at 7:00am, the ride departs at about 8:00am. Wear your club jerseys... and if you tell Jay in advance that you will be working and give him your t-shirt size, you'll get a cool free shirt for working. Contact Jay Stewart.

Ride safe.

 

PMBC Riders Raid Cochise County

Added October 13, 2003

written by John Arle

Douglas, AZ – Seven PMBC riders were last seen exploring the far southeastern frontier of our great state trying to stake their claim to a little piece of a beautiful weekend. Certainly not mission impossible when Fall has finally crept into Arizona and Perimeter Bicycling Association of America stages their first event of the new season, The Cochise Classic.

First, I apologize if there are other members that were on this event. If so, please contact me for well deserved recognition in my next column.

That being said, I'd like to recognize Reed Kempton, Neil Thomas, Mike Klein, Leon Smith, Mark Miller, and Dayna Woodruff, all of whom made the trek down to the border for the most intimate of the PBAA events. Wait ... that's only six riders you say? Ahhh, I was there too!

The weekend began with a wonderfully hosted pasta and pizza dinner at the historic Gadsden Hotel in downtown Douglas. Once you've said "all you can eat", you've pretty much said it all. The room was full of anxious riders and support crews eating up both the food and every tidbit of information that was provided. You see, this wasn't just another day ride. The "main event" at the Cochise Classic is a 252 mile ultra-marathon!

The Reed Kempton Saga

Enter our MAN of the hour ... well, actually more like 19 hours and some change. Reed Kempton riding in his seventh Cochise-252 was out to capture his elusive second complete ride. His last effort was cut short by a lightening storm. I know, some of these ultra-marathoners can be so picky about their riding conditions. After all, it just a billion megavolts of electricity! Come on, Reed, be a MAN! Well ... he is, and he finished this one! Not only that, but he was the ONLY one to do it on a recumbent and received a special Conquistador Award from PBAA in recognition of that feat. Following the 2:00 AM start (you read that right, that's two o'clock in the morning) Reed ran with the "big dogs" for the first dozen miles or so, but then the first climb hit and those darn crotch splitters faded into the distance treating our boy to a glimmering taillight show. Make no mistake, in the middle of the night, in the dark, out on a country road by yourself, and knowing you have over two hundred miles left has GOT to require a very special mindset ... or lack thereof! ? Conquering the climb was only the start, for what goes up, must come down, and it's still dark! Reed described the descent as a bit "scary." I hit 48 mph coming down that hill in broad daylight and felt a little uneasy about it. I'm certain most of us would find a descent like that in the dark more of an occasion requiring a change of shorts rather than simply "scary."

As the night gave way to day, our lad progressed on through Wilcox and encountered the unavoidable onset of the legendary winds of the Cochise Classic. Sure they got bad rather early in the day, but that was the good news. It gets worse in the afternoon. Not only that, but remember, Reed's riding all by himself. Combine that with an afternoon climb and you've got the makings of Reed grabbing a little 2 mph. See! There is an advantage to a recumbent, you can actually go that slow and not fall over!!

Mercifully, as the Sun nears the western horizon, the winds subside and demons of the dark return again. No, wait, those aren't demons, they're field mice darting across the highway and Reed gets to dodge them as they flash into his headlight. Need more? Toss in a couple of snakes, several dead skunks, a couple of roadrunners, and a pack of coyotes (I'm certain they passed on Reed because there's just not enough meat to go around!)

19 hours and 14 minutes later, the finish line was crossed with a 24th place finish, quite an accomplishment, Reed. No rider in this event, however, survives completely alone. Bill Lazenby and Reed's wife, Diana, drove support insuring food, water, and moral support.

Team America

Led by Leon (The Captain) Smith, Team America took to the 45 mile event with "domestiques" Mark Miller and Dayna Woodruff. This event truly marked the return of The Captain following a serious crash back in June and a lengthy recovery. Make no mistake, The Captain is back! The team rode exceptionally smart remaining together throughout their tour. Despite The Captain's insistence that HUGE black grasshoppers really are a good source of protein, the team relied on more traditional energy sources. Protecting their leader, Dayna and Mark spent their all allowing Leon to conserve his energy for that last sprint to the finish line as they sang "We are the Champions" crossing the line. Toss in Leon's special PBAA award for "Most Distinguished" rider and I'd say it was quite a morning.

Team Sloth

That leaves Neil Thomas, Mike Klein, and yours truly. As the official leader of Team Sloth, I adopted these speedsters for the weekend. Ok, Neil finishing in a platinum time of 4:33 isn't too sloth-like, but I didn't want him to feel rejected by the group. You know how sensitive those lawyers can get. It didn't come easy for him, he did have to recover from a spill rather late in the ride and still fight through the wind to get to the finish line.

I finished about 30 minutes later coming in just under 5 minutes past the platinum cutoff time. LOVELY! I still get to ride with the swarming masses at El Tour.

Mike certainly wins the hard luck rider award. Three flats in one ride just isn't going to set any speed records! The boy hung in there, however, and THAT earns him "Two Toes of the Sloth", our highest award.

This time next year the Cochise will ride again. Plan ahead, register early to assure your spot, and enjoy one of the epic events in our state with unbelievable scenery and some great camaraderie. This is definitely a great way to spend a fall weekend in Arizona.

 

October 12 Spin Cycle Report - The Spirit of the Sloth!

Added October 13, 2003

written by John Arle

Desert Breeze Park, Chandler, AZ - Twenty-two riders headed nearly due north for today's tour of Scottsdale. The spirit of the sloth was definitely present as even the lead group was only averaging in the mid-seventeen mph range even after going "superslothic" in the back half of the ride. Meanwhile, the Lanterne Rouge provided safe shelter for Jan, Todd (welcome to the group, Todd), Autumn, Suzie (welcome back, Sue), Kathleen, and yours truly (Sloth Vader). I did hear reports of a couple significant breakaways from the lead group, but details were sketchy and debated.

Today's route favored a casual tour, however. Moving north along Pima we were brought to a standstill at nearly every mile traffic light (thereby adding to the reduced average). Toss in a little twisting and turning through a "no trespassing" sign and weaving our way past the assembling Cardinal tailgaters, and you've got a pretty temperate pace. Neal did provide a little legal lesson on trespassing, but true to form, he came up with the defense argument that we definitely would have ridden into court. He was a little concerned about being one of the "perps", but let's not sweat the small stuff.

Sue does have to win the "Two Toes of the Sloth" award, however, after she snapped a spoke after about 10 miles and had to limp back home. Undaunted, she still made it to breakfast at the Wildflower where 11 others showed up, too. A little mechanical problem is not going to separate this girl from her cinnamon raisin nut french toast!

The spoke breaking also provided a little learning opportunity for Todd who now understands the importance of kicking out of a pedal on the same side that you plan on leaning and supporting your weight. Not a problem, my friend, its happened to all of us.

Even though Carter was a bit disappointed with our tour through ASU, we need to realize that hope always springs eternal and the Sun Devils did play a home game just yesterday. It was pretty darn early for anyone to be up and about! There's always next time, Carter.

Always remember and never forget, it is YOU that makes the Spin Cycle the place to ride on Sunday mornings. See you next week (if you're not doing The Heart).

Ride Schedule

10/19 - 7:00 AM Tour around South Mountain. One mileage of 50, with breakfast at Bagel Nosh. If there is some interest, we can make a trek up South Mountain on the way back.

10/26 - 7:00 AM Metro Mania - See how many towns, cities and little places we can hit in a day. Route options of 36 or 45 miles with some light climbs on the longer route. Breakfast at Good Egg or Smoothie King - depending on interest.

11/2 - 7:30 AM Start Time - NOTICE NEW TIME FOR NOVEMBER - We'll take a ramble to Sacaton, that is if I can wrestle the map away from Sue. Breakfast at Wildflower at Chandler Mall. More details to follow.

 

October 11 Saturday Cycling Report

Added October 13, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The draw of the Ride For Safety reduced our pack to a meager 57 riders this morning, but enthusiasm made up for lack of numbers. A great ramble was had out to the southeast, taking in the scenery of horses, goats, subdivisions... and our Sun Lakes pack headed in the opposite direction. The ever changing construction in that area has been ebbing and flowing, giving way to some new asphalt here and there... and new challenges to dodge. Breakfast at the Wildflower was excellent, with the group divided between the patio dwellers and the "I want air-conditioning" crowd. The chatty return to the park was uneventful... well, except for Buddy demonstrating that if you have to fall... be loud about it.

Coming up...

Saturday 10/18/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. If you are not headed to Tour de Farm, come join us for a ramble on the bike path. We'll be outbound on the Rio Salado path and then follow the Greenbelt north into Scottsdale. One route, 29 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Brueggers Bagels, Mill & 11th.

Saturday 10/25/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The Mummyback route takes us north for some great views of both Mummy Mountain and Camelback. Route options 28 miles with one moderate climb or 35 miles with an extra goofy steep climb (which you can by-pass if you want). Breakfast Pete's 19th Tee, north of Mill and Curry.

Saturday 11/1/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Note the time change! The Tour de Sue takes us to the south, with options on Queen Creek or Riggs, mileage 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger's Bagels, southeast corner Chandler Blvd & Rural.

Tid bits...

This morning that was some chatting about where to buy bike shorts if there is a lot of you to love. The following sites carry cycling gear in larger sizes:
http://www.mtborah.com (this site has both men's and women's)
http://www.teamestrogen.com
http://www.terrybicycles.com

A tip from Neal this morning, which was a pretty bright idea. As you participate in the various "event" rides around the state this fall, if possible, don your PMBC/GABA jersey for the rides. Let the cycling community know we are there in force, supporting the various rides and charities.

And another tip... about pack riding. Some of things you learn about riding in a group are obvious. Don't crash your friends (thanks Buddy!). Don't spit without first checking behind you for potential recepients of your delivery. But here is one that is a bit more subtle. When you get working on your bike... when you are cranking away and your body temp comes up... any scent you have slathered on before the ride is going to be multiplied many times over by your body heat. Use a light hand with colognes, aftershaves, perfumes, etc... unless your plan is to slow down the riders around you due to lack of oxygen.

Ride safe.

 

October 5 Spin Cycle Report

Added October 7, 2003

written by Ron Iverson

Oh, cheeze! It really didn't seem that eventful. A nice turn out of about 23 riders. First time we've seen Roger and Rob for a long time. We all managed to regroup at the first regroup. The wind was it's usual adversity heading East on McKellips, single file between Hayden and the freeway. We managed to miss the 3 chuck holes in the river bottom. Sue cranked us up to about 23 down Lindsay with the wind at our back. She made the Westerly turn on Brown instead of University, so we encountered some extra construction. We buzzed down University at around 28. Roger beat Randy and I up the Extension overpass. Crackers was its usual great place to eat. And then we went back to the park.

Glad you froze your butt off in Boston. (Yes I did, and now have to put up with all of those Red Sox Fans... - Glen.)

Ride Schedule

10/12 - 7:00AM Tour of Scottsdale. John Arle will lead the group with a Tour of Scottsdale. Mileage options of 38 or 35 miles with Breakfast at Wildflower Bread Company on Guadalupe and McClintock. Mostly flat ride. John promises a wing section of the map (hey, it wouldn't be Spin Cycle any other way!)

10/19 - 7:00AM Tour around South Mountain. One mileage of 50, with breakfast at Bagel Nosh. If there is some interest, we can make a trek up South Mountain on the way back.

10/26 - 7:00AM Metro Mania - See how many towns, cities and little places we can hit in a day. Route options of 36 or 45 miles with some light climbs on the longer route. Breakfast at Good Egg or Smoothie King - depending on interest.

 

October 4 Saturday Cycling Report

Added October 4, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 90 enthusiastic cyclists join in for our adventure to the Foothills this morning. The pack knew that fall was officially here as the cry of "Roger's back!" was sent up. (We set our calendars by the seasonal comings and goings of Roger Simmons.) The route was made interesting by a crane blocking one of the intersections we wanted to zip through (uh, that would be the machinery kind of crane, not a bird), but a little bit of wander-off-the-map creativity and the quest continued. All managed to make their way around some version of the route and eventually find they way back.

Coming up...

Saturday 10/11/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. If you are not headed to the Memorial Ride For Safetyon this date, joins us on the Lindsay Loop, to the southeast, with route options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at the WildFlower Cafe, northwest of Frye and Price.

Sunday 10/12/03 5:00pm PMBC/GABA Pizza Party! Come celebrate Columbus Day by stuffing yourself silly with pizza. (Hey, he was Italian, right?) Location is the Tempe Eatza Pizza, northwest corner of Mill & Southern, just north of the Fry's store. Tell them you are with Phoenix Metro Bike Club and at a price of $4.95 you'll get all you can eat salad, pizza, pasta, dessert, and beverages. Bring family, friends, kids... let them meet all the cool people you ride your bike with.

Saturday 10/18/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. If you are not headed to Tour de Farm, come join us for a ramble on the bike path. We'll check out the Rio Salado path and then follow the Greenbelt into Scottsdale. One route, 29 miles, no climbing. (Advanced riders-- this will be a moderate ride... if you wanna do the express train thing... get yourself to the Tour de Farm.) Breakfast is Brueggers Bagels, Mill & 11th.

Saturday 10/25/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The Mummyback route takes us north for some great views of both Mummy Mountain and Camelback. Route options 28 miles with one moderate climb or 35 miles with an extra goofy steep climb (which you can by-pass if you want). Breakfast Pete's 19th Tee, north of Mill and Curry.

Sunday 10/26/03 7:00am Kiwanis Park. So many rides... this is the date of the Palo Verder Nuclear Century over on the west side of the valley... but if you are NOT headed there we need your help. It's time again for the Tour De Tempe! This is free, fun, family ride through Tempe. Come out and join us for a great time with food, entertainment, and lots freebie stuff at the pre-ride bike festival, plus free t-shirts for the first 750 registered riders. PMBC is again providing ride support and marshalls. If you can help out, we need some riders to help man the air pumps before the ride and to act as goodwill cycling ambassadors during the ride to help those folks new to cycling. The pre-ride event runs from 7:00am to 8:00am, ride starts at 8:00am. Please contact volunteer wrangler Jay Stewart.

Tid bits...

We had a bit of confusion amid the riders this morning regarding the verbal signal for a car approaching the pack, either towards us from the front, or over taking us from behind the pack. If a car is approaching the line or pack from behind, the rear riders call out "Car back!". If we are on a narrow road and a car is approaching the pack towards us from the front, the lead riders call out "Car up!". If you hear either signal, move as far to the right side of the road as you safely can to allow the vehicle room to pass the group.

Ride safe.

 

November 30 Spin Cycle Report

Added November 30, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 24 riders for Sunday's route and 22 on Friday around South Mountain. Both routes were good, but we were treated to a little head wind on both days. For those that did all four rides this weekend, congratulations, take a break, you deserve it...Nothing to eventful either of the days, other than wind and a lot of miles.

Actually, I'm so tired, I don't have much to write, so have a good week.

Ride Schedule

12/7 8:00 AM - NOTICE TIME CHANGE - Yes, starting December, we go to 8:00am. We'll start December off with the Milk Run. Many options, 36, 38, 40 or 44 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower.

12/14 8:00 AM - McKellupeloop - A route down McKellips and back on Guadalupe. Mileage options of 34, 39 or 50 miles. All mostly flat. Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe.

12/21 8:00 AM - Ohcotukee Loop - Down to Ocotillo, then to Ahwatukee, and back. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles, with 35 with slight hills and 45 with more hills. Breakfast at Brueggers Bagels.

12/28 8:00 AM - Last ride in 2003 - Germann/Hunt Loop - Out to Germann and then back on Hunt. Mileage options of 33 or 42 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower.

 

November 29 Saturday Cycling Report

Added November 29, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

What an absolutely gorgeous day for a pedal this morning! We had a buncha riders (that's an official term, "buncha"... which means we didn't get a head count!) head north bound for our journey to Mummy. That is such a scenic ride... the views through oxygen deprivation haze are so beautiful. All enjoyed the perfect Arizona "winter" weather, with many flaunting that distinctive profile cyclists develop here by stuffing their rear jersey pockets full to bursting with the warm clothing they started out wearing in the morning chill.

Thanks to Kathy Hendricks for stepping up to lead the gang this morning.

Coming up...

Sunday 11/30/03 7:30am Desert Breeze Park. Last day of our 4 day stage ride weekend. Our Sunday start point hosts all for a ride to downtown Phoenix, with a couple of mileage options. Breakfast at Smoothie King northwest of McClintock and Ray.

Saturday 12/6/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!! Time for our quarterly membership breakfast meeting. The route will be a loop to the southeast, mileage options of 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast location is the Home Town Buffet, northwest of Warner & Evergreen. Breakfast is free to call PMBC/GABA members, $7 for non-members. A brief meeting and our annual officer elections will be held. If you plan to meet us at the restaurant, aim for 10:00am.

Saturday 12/13/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Traditional wandering amidst the Ahwatukee Foothills. Route options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with some moderate climbing. Breakfast Village Inn, northwest of Hardy & Elliott.

Saturday 12/13/03 4:00pm. Jack & Jan Graham invite all to their abode for our annual eat fest... er, holiday party. They'll provide lasagna and non-alcoholic beverages. You bring a side dish to share and BYOB if you want. Details on directions to follow, but the general area is southwest of Warner & Hardy. If you plan to attend, RVSP to yours truly at suefassett@att.net

Saturday 12/20/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. The St. Francis Loop offers a little of everything as we romp through town and over dale. Route options 26 miles or 36 miles, moderate climbing on both routes. Breakfast at IHOP, southwest corner Apache & College.

Tid bits...

We had a LOT of riders head to the Tucson adventure last weekend. Some challenged themselves to focus on quick time around the course, while others took the Zen approach and ate their money's worth at each rest stop. Did you check out the results page? Our very own Andy Krebs rode with the big dogs... covering 109 miles in 4 hours and 55 minutes. And our Sunday pack leader, Glen Fletcher, managed to recover from a crash mid-ride and still come in at 5 hours 14 minutes for that route. Kudos to all who participated.

So, the big rides for the season are done. Kick back, relax... you deserve it. Then note on your calendar that our first big ride of 2004 comes up on January 11th! (That would be the Casa Granda Century... pick up a registration form any Saturday morning.)

Ride safe.

 

November 23 Spin Cycle Report

Added November 23, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 12 riders take off on this cool morning. I decided not to ride today to nurse a few injuries from El Tour, I'm ok, just a little bruised, but still finished with a new personal best. Since I don't have any details of this mornings ride, other than it was cold and 12 riders, I thought I would fill you in with a few humor items from El Tour. First, Mike K wakes up in the morning and notices he forgot his water bottles. What makes this funny is he decided not to take the 3 or so free water bottles available at the convention center the night before. Oh well, Jesse helped him out before the ride. Let's see, Carter gets Flat Head honors with four flats and a DNF. Better luck next year.

We had a pretty strong contingent of riders at El Tour. These are the people that I saw or heard that went, Carter, Neal, Mike K, Roger, Jack, Buddy, Ron S., Jim S., Renetta, Mike & Nancy, Judy K & her husband and kids, Connie, Andy, Jesse, Cory, Les, and Mark. I'm sure there were more, so if you did it and want to let me know your time, send me an email.

Ride Schedule

Thanksgiving Weekend rides

11/27 7:30 AM - Turkey Day - Want to get an earlier start on shedding pounds for the holiday, come out to KIWANIS and join a few other turkeys. A Tour de Sue - 25 or 35 miles so you can get back in time to PIG out.

11/28 7:30 AM - Friday ride for those that are off. Start point, Desert Breeze Park a ride around South Mountain. Mileage of 50 miles, breakfast at Bagel Nash - Warner & 48th st.

11/29 7:30 AM - Saturday Cycling at Kiwanis - The original Mummy - breakfast at Brueggers.

11/30 7:30 AM - Recovery ride after Thanksgiving - We'll take a ride to Downtown Phoenix. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles, breakfast at Smoothie King.

12/7 8:00 AM - NOTICE TIME CHANGE - Yes, starting December, we go to 8:00am. We'll start December off with the Milk Run. Many options, 36, 38, 40 or 44 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower.

 

November 22 Saturday Cycling Report

Added November 22, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The draw of Tucson and the blustery weather reduced our herd to 29 riders this morning. We stalled a bit in the parking lot, waiting on the sun, but it didn't change the temp much. The pack cruised outbound with the encouragement of a tailwind, taking us over to Brown, where we were pleased to discover the road has not only been restored but rebuilt with a gorgeous smooth surface. The bit of downhill benefit on Rio Salado was eaten up by the enthusiastic headwind, but all eventually made their way 'round the route. After the bagel stop another pleasant surprise was discovered at Baseline and College... a newly installed traffic light. Our days of the pack risking life and limb to cross the intersection just north of our home park are finally over!

Coming up...

Our four day stage ride weekend is upon us!

Thursday 11/27/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. We head out on the Tour de Sue, with route options of 25 or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast stop is Bruegger's Bagels, southeast of Chandler Blvd and Rural.

Friday 11/28/03 7:30am Desert Breeze Park. Our Sunday start point hosts all for a ride Round the Mountain. One route, about 47 miles. Breakfast at Bagel Nosh, southeast of Warner & 40th St.

Saturday 11/29/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. The Mummy Mountain route gives us route options of either 27 miles or 40 miles, both with climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill and 11th.

Sunday 11/30/03 7:30am Desert Breeze Park. Our Sunday start point hosts all for a ride to downtown Phoenix, with a couple of mileage options. Breakfast at Smoothie King (excellent brownies!) northwest of McClintock and Ray.

Saturday 12/6/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!! Time for our quarterly membership breakfast meeting. The route will be a loop to the southeast, mileage options of 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast location is the Home Town Buffet, northwest of Warner & Evergreen. Breakfast is free to call PMBC/GABA members, $7 for non-members. A brief meeting and our annual officer elections will be held while you eat yourself silly. If you plan to meet us at the restaurant, aim for 10:00am.

Saturday 12/13/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Traditional wandering amidst the Ahwatukee Foothills. Route options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with some moderate climbing. Breakfast Village Inn, northwest of Hardy & Elliott.

Saturday 12/13/03 4:00pm. Jack & Jan Graham invite all to their abode for a holiday gathering. They'll provide lasagna and non-alcoholic beverages. You bring a side dish to share and BYOB if you want. Details on directions to follow, but the general area is southwest of Warner & Hardy. If you plan to attend, RVSP to yours truly at suefassett@att.net

Tid bits...

If you went to Tucson, drop a note so that those of us living vicariously through you can get our fix!

Ride safe.

 

November 16 Spin Cycle Report

Added November 16, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 24 riders today take on the Tour Around Mummy Mountain with a Twist. At the suggestion of one of our riders, I modified the newly modified Around Mummy route to also include some of the hills in the original mummy route. I tried to communicate this to the group, but couldn't find the right words to describe the "original" route, and the newly modified route. So, Bob C. suggested "modified" (which is not to be confused with the original first route, but the newly created around Mummy - not to be confused with the newly modified version of the modified), and then "original" for the very first mummy. Clear as mud, eh?

So, we had about half of the group use the modified route and the other half taking on the original after the big king of the hill (which was won by Gary). All told, a good day for riding, and a great stop for breakfast with Mike and Nancy having our table ready as we pulled up.

Ride Schedule

11/23 7:30 AM - Recovery ride after Tour of Tucson - we'll take a the Germannalupe Loop - down Guadalupe and back on Germann. Mileage options of 33 or 42, with breakfast at Ruby's Diner.

Thanksgiving Weekend rides

11/27 7:30 AM - Turkey Day - Want to get an earlier start on shedding pounds for the holiday, come out to KIWANIS and join a few other turkeys. A Tour de Sue - 25 or 35 miles so you can get back in time to PIG out.

11/28 7:30 AM - Friday ride for those that are off. Start point, Desert Breeze Park a ride around South Mountain. Mileage of 50 miles, breakfast at Bagel Nash - Warner & 48th st.

11/29 7:30 AM - Saturday Cycling at Kiwanis - The original Mummy - breakfast at Brueggers.

11/30 7:30 AM - Recovery ride after Thanksgiving - We'll take a ride to Downtown Phoenix. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles, breakfast at Smoothie King.

November 15 Saturday Cycling Report

Added November 16, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The draw of other rides in the valley reduced us to 49 enthusiastic riders this morning. Actually, Ron Kast seemed to have enough energy to carry the entire pack this morning all on his own! Off we went to various versions of South Mountain, with many riders working on one last weekend of hard riding before Tucson. The weather was perfect for the route, with still a bit of a chill on the downhill rampage. Breakfast at 5&Diner was excellent, though we need to take up a collection to buy them some new patio speakers to replace the blown ones!

Coming up...

Saturday 11/22/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. If you aren't headed to Tucson, come join us for the El Tour De Lehi, with route options of 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner 11th St and Mill.

And then our holiday weekend line up--

Thursday 11/27/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. We head out on the Tour de Sue, with route options of 25 or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast stop is Bruegger's Bagels, southeast of Chandler Blvd and Rural.

Friday 11/28/03 7:30am Desert Breeze Park. Our Sunday start point hosts all for a ride Round the Mountain. One route, about 45 miles. Breakfast at Bagel Nosh, southeast of Warner & 40th St.

Saturday 11/29/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain route gives us route options of either 27 miles or 40 miles, both with climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill and 11th.

Sunday 11/30/03 7:30am Desert Breeze Park. Our Sunday start point hosts all for the final day of our "stage ride" weekend. The pack heads to downtown Phoenix, with a couple of mileage options. Breakfast at Smoothie King (excellent brownies!) northwest of McClintock and Ray.

Saturday 12/6/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE!! And note that this is a free food ride! Yes, time for our quarterly membership breakfast meeting. The route will be a loop to the southeast, miles options of 25 miles or 35 miles. Breakfast location is the Home Town Buffet, northwest of Warner & Evergreen. Breakfast is free to call PMBC/GABA members, $7 for non-members. A brief meeting and our annual officer elections will be held while you eat yourself silly. If you plan to meet us at the restaurant, aim for 10:00am.

Tid bits...

The things you learn by cycling. Ya know how we are always pondering why the headwind on McKellips? We have a bright puppy in the crowd that has answered that question. Our pack member Darlene Periconi used to be a meteorologist for Channel 12. She tells us the general weather pattern on a normal day in the valley is out of the East in the morning and out of the West in the afternoon. You will notice if you are ever near Sky Harbor Airport that the planes land facing east in the morning and west in the afternoon. Why does this happen? Cold air is heavier than warm air. The air near the mountains to our east cools quickly because of the high elevation. As the air cools it sinks and drains down towards the valley ... generally along the Salt River. Therefore, in the morning you will have an east wind and McKellips is a naturual open drain for this air. Unless there is some weather approaching, this weather pattern repeats every 24 hours. East in the morning and west in the afternoon.

Now, that should make you feel much better the next time you are slogging across McKellips into a relentless morning headwind.

Ride safe.

 

November 9 Spin Cycle Report

Added November 9, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 20 riders today take off towards Usery Pass. However, before we got started, Neal decided to harass the ride leader. You know what that means, all kinds of harassment back. Overall, a great day to ride, weather was a little cool to begin with, but afterwards was perfect. We had a few take the 35 mile route, and a few more take the 45 mile route. The rest decided to go the distance, and we even added another 4 miles around Las Sendas with some MORE hills.

Going up Usery was a good test, with Gary getting King of the hill honors. The decent back to town was fun and fast. Even a few decided to eat a late breakfast at neighbors. All told, long route from the park was 69 miles. For those that are wondering why all the long miles, well, you have been training for El Tour de Tucson. If your note riding it, well, your training. Speaking of El Tour de Tucson, I was reading on their web site that they are not going to allow aero bars at the ride. This is for safety, especially when you have 6,000 riders in small groups. So, if you are planning on going, I suggest you take them off before you get there. Otherwise, they will assist in taking them off for you at the start, and if you don't want to, you are DQ'ed.

Ride Schedule

11/16 7:30 AM - Tour Around Mummy mountain. A route to Scottsdale and around Mummy Mountain. I'm going to try something a little different, and combine the around Mummy with the original mummy. We'll see how it turns out...Mileage options of 35 or 40 miles, with moderate climbing. Breakfast at US Egg on Mill & Baseline.

11/23 7:30 AM - Recovery ride after Tour of Tucson - we'll take a the Germannalupe Loop - down Guadalupe and back on Germann. Mileage options of 33 or 42, with breakfast at Ruby's Diner.

Thanksgiving Weekend rides

11/27 7:30 AM - Turkey Day - Want to get an earlier start on shedding pounds for the holiday, come out to KIWANIS and join the festives. A Tour de Sue - 25 or 35 miles so you can get back in time to PIG out.

11/28 7:30 AM - Friday ride for those that are off. Start point, Desert Breeze Park a ride around South Mountain. Mileage of 50 miles, breakfast at Bagel Nosh.

11/29 7:30 AM - Saturday Cycling at Kiwanis - The original Mummy - breakfast at Brueggers.

11/30 7:30 AM - Recovery ride after Thanksgiving - We'll take a ride to Downtown Phoenix. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles, breakfast at Smoothie King.

 

November 8 Saturday Cycling Report

Added November 8, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Even with the draw of the MS-150 ride this weekend, we managed to pull in 60 riders for our wind training ride on McKellips. (Why is there always a head wind there?) Lots of people went for the long route in a quest to build miles up towards their goal of the Tucson tour that is rapidly approaching. A small group of real mileage dogs even headed off to the Foothills after breakfast cuz they still hadn't had enough. The perfect weather makes it feel like you could ride all day.

Coming up...

Saturday 11/15/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Off to South Mountain we go, to the StoneHouse, San Juan, or the Towers. Various route options. Breakfast 5&Diner, northwest of Baseline and Priest.

Saturday 11/22/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. If you aren't headed to Tucson, come join us for the El Tour De Lehi, with route options of 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner 11th St and Mill.

In response to all who are asking... of course we will offer rides all four days of the Thanksgiving weekend!

Thursday 11/27/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Burn a few pre-feast calories with on the Tour de Sue, with route options of 25 or 35 miles, no climbing. For those that don't have to rush off to turkey day events, breakfast stop is Bruegger's Bagels, southeast of Chandler Blvd and Rural.

Friday 11/28/03 7:30am Desert Breeze Park. Note this ride is from our Sunday morning start point, which is about 3 miles south of Kiwanis Park (drop a note if you need directions). Tentative route is Round the Mountain (around South Mountain). Firm details next week.

Saturday 11/29/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. The original Mummy Mountain route, a favorite of the pack, gives us route options of either 27 miles or 40 miles, both with a bit of climbing. Breakfast is Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill and 11th.

Sunday 11/30/03 7:30am Desert Breeze Park. Our Sunday pack hosts all for a ride. Assume you will pedal your bike somewhere, then eat. Details to follow.

Ride safe.

 

November 2 Spin Cycle Report

Added November 2, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 34 riders show up despite the cooler temperatures, must be the allure of Sacaton. We got off and made it to our first regroup without any problems. Then we headed to Sacaton. Overall, that route is great, no stop lights and nice new pavement. We encountered our first flat (yes, start counting) by Ron S on the way to Sacaton. We then all regrouped in Sacaton and took various routes back. This is where the fun begins. A ways down the road, Larry got a flat. In the midst of pumping it back up, he accidentally broke the stem off, so we proceeded on the second tube, which Neal furnished. However, before even putting it in, it had a whole in it (Gee, thanks Neal!). We found a new tube and then Bob C. noticed he had a flat, so changed it there.

Off we went again, until the regroup at the Chevron. There, one of our riders noticed a flat, so we changed it as well. Off to breakfast, and getting a couple of hundred yards off, Larry got another flat. This time, a huge hole in his tire, so we put a boot in and repaired and was off for a good 200 yards when Gene flatted. Again, a quick change and then we were done. Ok, have you counted them all, wait, it gets better. I decided to take in a few extra miles with Roger, and a 1/2 mile from my house, I flatted. I decided I had changed enough flats for one day, walked home and put my bike in the garage where it still sits. Changing the flat will come another day.

Ok, Larry get's Flat Head of the week honors....Did you get 8 total including the flat tube from Neal?

Ride Schedule

11/9 - 7:30 AM - For those that noticed I forgot a week, congratulations, and thanks for telling me. I'm going to try a new route to Usery Pass. I haven't got all of the details worked out, but I'll have a 35 mile route, a 45 mile route - both mostly flat, and then a longer route of about 60 with some good climbing. Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe.

11/16 7:30 AM - Tour Around Mummy mountain. A route to Scottsdale and around Mummy Mountain. Mileage options of 35 or 40 miles, with moderate climbing. Breakfast at US Egg on Mill & Baseline.

11/23 7:30 AM - Recovery ride after Tour of Tucson - we'll take a the Germannalupe Loop - down Guadalupe and back on Germann. Mileage options of 33 or 42, with breakfast at Ruby's Diner.

11/30 7:30 AM - Recovery ride after Thanksgiving - We'll take a ride to Downtown Phoenix. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles, breakfast at Smoothie King.

 

November 1 Saturday Cycling Report

Added November 2, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

What a gorgeous morning for a pedal! Thanks to Fletch for leading our 71 riders out of the park this morning. In spite of a series of flats (Jack... you could have at least gotten outa the parking lot before getting one!) the group enjoyed the ramble 'round the route. Nancy O'Leary found herself seemingly stranded to struggle alone with a flat on an isolated stretch of the route... but was soon rescued by knights in shining lycra, Buddy and Jack, who helped her get rolling again. Stories of adventures had in some of the event rides that have been going on kept the breakfast crowd enthralled.

Coming up...

Saturday 11/8/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. We head to the northeast on the McKellips Loop. Route options 28 miles or 37 miles, one gentle climb on each. Breakfast Neighbor's Cafe, northwest of Guadalupe and Dobson.

Saturday 11/15/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Off to South Mountain we go, to the StoneHouse, San Juan, or the Towers. Various route options. Breakfast 5&Diner, northwest of Baseline and Priest.

Saturday 11/22/03 7:30am Kiwanis Park. The Lehi Loop, with route options of 27 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast Bruegger's Bagels, northwest corner 11th St and Mill.

Tid bits...

For those going to participate in the MS150 next weekend, just a reminder to taper down your miles on this bike this coming week and make Friday a rest day. Remember to stay hydrated during the ride both days, and during the Saturday overnight stay, even if the weather is cool. We wish you tail winds both days... and be sure to eat your entry fee worth of cookies!

Ride safe.

 

Heat Up The Heart

Added November 1, 2003

written by John Arle

Congress, AZ – Each year, the new cycling season arrives in Arizona with one of the most challenging routes of the entire year. The Heart of Arizona ride, co-sponsored by GABA (Metro & West Valley), Bullshifters, and ABC takes to the mountains of central Arizona. Of course, that's an honor reserved for the 107 milers. After a glorious 25 mile warm-up to the first sag stop, the route turns abruptly uphill and doesn't really let go until the final plunge down Yarnell hill, the momentum of which basically carries you back to the parking lot in Congress.

But that, of course, describes the traditional route. What distinguishes this year is both the people and the weather. Some of you may have missed fall, winter, and spring this year. Oct. 2nd was the last triple digit day of last summer. Fall lasted from Oct. 3rd to Oct. 10th. Winter ran from Oct. 11th to the 15th. Spring set in on Oct. 16th and lasted only one day. Summer started again October 17th and is continuing through this day of writing. Naturally, since global warming is just a figment of some people's mind (mine included), we really need to take a look at how these climate changes affect our traditional fall activities.

The Heart includes about 6000 ft. of climbing on the long route and is entirely a desert event regardless of route. Shake a hundred or so riders out across the desert, heat it up over a 100 degrees and YEAH BABY you've got a formula for some fun!! Can we say "electrolyte deprivation"??

Enter the people and characters of the event. I chose the 107 mile option (actually its closer to 102, but let's not tell anybody). The Bullshifters ran the sag stops across the distant frontier and did an absolutely fabulous job of it. Their spirit, service, care and commitment to the riders was outstanding. They greeted every arriving rider with a cheer and even picked up their bike and pumped up the tires if needed. The lunch stop even had a camp Yorkshire terrier to insure the grounds were kept clean. Personnel insuring that we had water and were doing ok in the extreme conditions constantly patrolled the route. I, unfortunately, can testify to their vigilance as I succumbed to the heat and had to be scrapped up around mile 80. Thanks, Gordon, you saved me!

Naturally, the hammerin' ABC group led by Rich Rumer flew past everybody on their way around the jaunt. A little AZ heat ain't slowin' these kids. Dave Lehnen and Roy Kopel were equally undaunted by the triple digits although Dave did confess to simply drafting behind Roy during the entire pull through the winds of People's Valley. Those of you that know Roy, however, know he is definitely up to a long stay at the front of the line. Rich Heffern, a GABA regular, was hanging with the ABC group and showing off his skills just a couple of weeks after he did Bartlett Lake in the Ride for Safety. Venaranda, obviously Rich's better half, was taking the much more prudent 62 mile option. (Oh how I wish I had done that, instead!) Herein lies a downside of the ride.

Venaranda was involved in a serious accident and consequently spent a few days in the hospital. She will recover, but leveled some serious concerns about ride safety in a letter written just after being discharged. In her letter, she asks some tough questions about routes chosen for club sanctioned rides. Most roads on this ride lacked any shoulder. True enough, the roadways are to be shared between cyclists and vehicles, but unfortunately, most motorists don't see it that way. Consequently, there is an inherent risk whenever we take to the road. This is true with a shoulder or bike lane, or without. She makes some additional points regarding cycling habits and safety. Clearly, we have all seen unsafe cycling on many, maybe even most, group rides or events. She asks some very good questions about what could, or should, be done.

Feel better soon, Venaranda, and come back to make this a better community in which to ride.

Back to The Heart '03. GABA Metro was supporting the 62 milers. Jan Pederson was out there making certain there was plenty of water and grub to fight the Summer II broiler. GABA West Valley had the welcome home barbecue going. Herman, Betsy and crew were serving up hotdogs, grilled cheese sandwiches, chips, drinks, cake, cookies, ... ok, so I treated myself to a little of everything. So did everybody else and there was plenty to go around!!

The bottom-line on this weekend was, if it wasn't for the support and vigilance of everyone out there, this wouldn't have been anywhere near the wonderful event that it was. Just one request for next year's planners, however, let's knock off 15 degrees from the high temperature, OK?

 

December 28 Spin Cycle Report

Added December 28, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 17 brave riders take off in the 29 degree temperature this morning. We also welcomed a new rider John to the group. We took off in a very moderate pace trying to get our bodies warm and searching for sunshine. We kept a very nice paceline going down Kyrene and Guadalupe hitting almost every stop light on green. We regrouped and then the wind started, so it made it harder on the paceline, but all told, everyone maintained a very good line. We ran into a little construction on Germann, so we took a couple of different routes, but made it to Wildflower for breakfast and some hot chocolate and coffee. Happy New Years Everyone!!!!

Ride Schedule

For New Year's Day, Thursday 1/1/04... you have at least three rides to pick from... so no excuses:

Thursday 1/1/04 8:30 Kiwanis Park. Jay Stewart offers up an adventure on the GreenBelt. Two start points and times. Leave from at Kiwanis Park at 8:30am or join the group in route at 9:00am at Tempe Beach Park (NW corner Mill & Rio Salado) south of the lake and east of the railroad bridge. One route, in the range of 25 to 30 miles. Breakfast Brugger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Thursday 1/1/04 9:00am Usery Park Ride and Picnic. Meet in Usery Mountain Park at group picnic site C. Park entry fee is $5 per vehicle. The picnic is potluck, so bring food of your choice to share. Contributions to cover the expenses of site rental and beverages would be appreciated. Ride to Saguaro Lake or Butcher Jones, and return via Usery Pass or Bush Hwy. 30 to 40 hilly miles. Contact Bob Prochaska at 480-895-2601.

Note, for our advanced riders, our other riding organization here in the valley, ABC, is offering up their traditional ride to Tortilla Flat on New Year's Day. Start time 8:00am at the Basha's Plaza, Old West Hwy & Apache Trail in Apache Junction. 35-45 miles, with climbing.

1/4 8:30 AM - NOTICE NEW START TIME FOR JANUARY - yes for January we move our start time back a 1/2 hour to let it warm up (and me sleep in). Our first ride of the year will be Metro Mania. Mileage options of 36 or 45 miles, all flat with breakfast at The Good Egg on Rural & Ray.

1/11 8:00ish - We will not have the normal Spin Cycle ride, we will be supporting the Casa Grande Century and our club. The terrain is flat, the roads have low traffic and the temperature is guaranteed to be cool. Ride from Sun Lakes to Dave White Regional Park in Casa Grande and return. Three ride options will be available: A full century (108 miles), A metric century (62 miles), and an 85 mile loop. The ride starts on Alma School & Chandler Heights in the Safeway Parking Lot. Sign up by January 4th to get discounts. See Casa Grande Century for more details.

Those interested in riding the Casa Grande Century in a group are invited to join the gang for a 9am start the morning of the ride. Strategy is to do a REAL 15-20 minute warm-up, with the goal of completing the ride with a 20mph on-the-bike average speed. Contact Mike Morross at ride010101@aol.com with any questions

 

December 27 Saturday Cycling Report

Added December 28, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

For us desert rats, twas a wee bit chilly this morning! We had 43 brave but shivering souls head out of the park. The pack had a nice chat early in the route with one of Tempe's finest, reminding all that no more than two abreast and tight to the right should be our motto. The rest of the course was pretty uneventful, except when we reached the split for long versus short route... and the idea of hot chocolate swayed some of the fast pack into making a bee line to the WildFlower. We pre-warmed the chairs on the patio while waiting for the others to arrive.

Coming up...

For New Year's Day, Thursday 1/1/04... you have at least three rides to pick from... so no excuses:

Thursday 1/1/04 8:30 Kiwanis Park. Jay Stewart offers up an adventure on the GreenBelt. Two start points and times. Leave from at Kiwanis Park at 8:30am or join the group in route at 9:00am at Tempe Beach Park (NW corner Mill & Rio Salado) south of the lake and east of the railroad bridge. One route, in the range of 25 to 30 miles. Breakfast Brugger's Bagels, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Thursday 1/1/04 9:00am Usery Park Ride and Picnic. Meet in Usery Mountain Park at group picnic site C. Park entry fee is $5 per vehicle. The picnic is potluck, so bring food of your choice to share. Contributions to cover the expenses of site rental and beverages would be appreciated. Ride to Saguaro Lake or Butcher Jones, and return via Usery Pass or Bush Hwy. 30 to 40 hilly miles. Contact Bob Prochaska at 480-895-2601.

Note, for our advanced riders, our other riding organization here in the valley, ABC, is offering up their traditional ride to Tortilla Flat on New Year's Day. Start time 8:00am at the Basha's Plaza, Old West Hwy & Apache Trail in Apache Junction. 35-45 miles, with climbing.

Saturday 1/3/04 8:30am Kiwanis Park. We start our year off right, with a journey to Mummy Mountain. The scenic short route option is 27 miles with one hill or long route is 40 miles with a couple more hills. Brunch will be after the ride, right back at the park at Someburros, southeast corner of Mill & Baseline.

Saturday 1/10/05 8:30am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Tempe takes us on a route around some of the scenic spots in our lovely town. Route options of 31 miles with no climbing or 38 miles with a couple of climbs. Brunch on the patio at Ripe Tomato, southeast corner Baseline and Extension.

Saturday 1/17/04 8:30am Kiwanis Park. It's SuperGo Saturday!! One of our local shops wants to say thank you for so many of our club members shopping there... so they are inviting us to breakfast! Route is still being determined, but we'll end up at SuperGo, southeast corner of Ray & Kyrene for FREE (!!) eats towards the end of the ride.

Tid bits...

Yes, your body will complain a bit if you push hard in cold weather. Your blood is busy trying to keep your organs in your torso warm... and can't be bothered with silly stuff like like shuttling fuel to your legs for a bike ride. Warm up a lot, make at least the first 15 or 20 minutes of riding very moderate. Once you get some body heat going, your body will be much more cooperative about what you are asking it to do.

Ride safe.

 

December 21 Spin Cycle Report

Added December 21, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 24 riders take off this morning on a perfect December morning. We also had dueling mountain bikes, but I think I won on weight, dirt, squeaking (i.e., chain), and quality. Hey, that Murray I bought 12 years ago is an antique, sorry Stewart. For those that have asked, I'm doing fine, and the police did catch the person who hit me, so I'm dealing with insurance and trying to get my bike back together.

On to the ride, we had a couple of flats along the way, with Mike having a strange noise coming from his wheel, so now we can call him "Squeaky". I managed to keep up with the speed group for most of Pecos before I lost steam. Everyone made it around the route and then we headed to breakfast. Along the way, we picked up Gene who didn't know where we were riding, but could hear Neal along the route (hey, those were Neal's words, not mine).

Here is to everyone this holiday season, please have a fun and safe holidays. Have you got your New Year's resolutions done yet? I'm thinking they include more exercise and riding.

Ride Schedule

12/28 8:00 AM - Last ride in 2003 - Germann/Hunt Loop - Out to Germann and then back on Hunt. Mileage options of 33 or 42 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower.

1/4 8:30 AM - NOTICE NEW START TIME FOR JANUARY - Yes for January we move our start time back a 1/2 hour to let it warm up (and me sleep in). Our first ride of the year will be Metro Mania. Mileage options of 36 or 45 miles, all flat with breakfast at The Good Egg on Rural & Ray.

1/11 8:00ish - We will not have the normal Spin Cycle ride, we will be supporting the Casa Grande Century and our club. The terrain is flat, the roads have low traffic and the temperature is guaranteed to be cool. Ride from Sun Lakes to Dave White Regional Park in Casa Grande and return. Three ride options will be available: A full century (108 miles), A metric century (62 miles), and an 85 mile loop. The ride starts on Alma School & Chandler Heights in the Safeway Parking Lot. Sign up by January 4th to get discounts. See Casa Grande Century for more details.

 

December 20 Saturday Cycling Report

Added December 21, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Today is one of those days when you call your relatives back east and tell them the afternoon temp. Really, do it. They'll appreciate it. We had 63 riders join up at the park for a morning of excellent pedaling. Our entertainment was provided by the Tim/Tom rolling recliner/stereo system complete with holiday tunes. The ride across Rio Salado was interupted by a few randomly placed bits of lumber and construction debris. Most of the train moved along intact... except for Big Jim who decided his waterbottles looked better laying in the middle of the road instead of resting in his bottle cages and for Randy, who decided it was a perfect spot to stop and change out the air in one of his tires.

Coming up...

Wednesday 12/24/03 8:00am Tortilla Flat
We had riders this morning asking if we are hosting a mid-week holiday ride. "We", as in Saturday Cycling are not, but our club has a weekly Wednesday riding group, and all are welcome to hop in with their adventure this week if you have Wednesday clear for riding. Details are:
Start point is Basha's Plaza, NW corner of Apache Trail & Old West Hwy in Apache Junction. Ride to Tortilla Flat for breakfast, optional ride to the end of the pavement. 35-45 hilly miles. Ride leader Bob Prochaska at 480-895-2601. 
Pinnacle Peak Pedalers

Saturday 12/27/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Our last ride of the year takes us on a loop to the southeast by way of Lindsay. 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Wildflower, northwest of Frye & Price at the Chandler Mall.

Thursday 1/1/04 8:30am Kiwanis Park. Start the New Year right, on your bike! Jay Stewart offers up his annual adventure on the GreenBelt into Scottsdale. Two start points and times. Either start with Jay at Kiwanis Park at 8:30am or join the group in route at 9:00am (for the sleep deprived) at Tempe Beach Park, northwest of Mill and Rio Salado. One route, in the range of 25 to 30 miles (depending on where you start!). Breakfast someplace with food towards the end of the ride.

Note, for our hammerheads that just can't take a easy joy ride, our other riding oranganization here in the valley, ABC, is offering up their traditional ride to Tortilla Flat on New Year's Day. Start time (8:00am) and place same as the Wednesday ride noted above.

Saturday 1/3/04 8:30am Kiwanis Park. January! You know what that brings us? A later start time! It also brings us some new adventures in our food stops as we seek out some brunch/lunch locations. A winner from last year will be first up...Someburros. Right back at the park, southeast corner of Mill and Baseline. Oh yeah, the ride... to build up your appetite for that Mexican food... we start the year with a jaunt to Mummy Mountain. Route options 27 miles with one hill or 40 miles with a couple more hills.

Tid bits...

The first century of the year, Sunday Jan 11th to Casa Grande, is approaching rapidly. If you haven't registered yet, do so in the next 10 days or so and you can still get in for a discounted cost. Mike Morross, leader of our Mesa Sunday gang, sends the following message in regards to this ride:

"Those interested in riding the Casa Grande Century in a group are invited to join the our gang for a 9:00am start the morning of the ride. Strategy is to do a 15-20 minute warm-up, with the goal of completing the ride with a 20mph on-the-bike average speed."

Ride safe.

December 14 Spin Cycle Report

Added December 14, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 9 riders take off on this chilly morning. I was told that all made it around the route with no problems. Thanks for everyone who stepped in this morning. I was involved in a hit and run on my way to park in the morning, so I wasn't able to join the group. I'm fine, just a few bumps and bruises, and worst of all, my bike is out of commission for a while. We'll see everyone next week. As they say on Hill Street Blues, "Be Careful Out there!"

Ride Schedule

12/21 8:00 AM - Ohcotukee Loop - Down to Ocotillo, then to Ahwatukee, and back. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles, with 35 with slight hills and 45 with more hills. Breakfast at Brueggers Bagels.

12/28 8:00 AM - Last ride in 2003 - Germann/Hunt Loop - out to Germann and then back on Hunt. Mileage options of 33 or 42 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower.

 

December 13 Saturday Cycling Report

Added December 13, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Twas a wee bit chilly this morning, but we had 59 riders decide it was perfect weather for cycling... or at least they decided to pedal in spite of the temp. Off we went to the Foothills, joining both the Honeywell and White Mountains teams there training, and a whole bunch of other cyclists all enjoying the climbs and descents. So great to see so many people out on bikes! We rambled about on various versions of the route then made our way to the welcome warmth of the breakfast.

Coming up...

Saturday 12/20/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. The St. Francis Loop offers a little of everything. Route options 26 miles or 36 miles, moderate climbing on both routes. Breakfast at IHOP, southwest corner Apache & College.

Saturday 12/27/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Our last ride of 2003 takes us on a loop to the southeast by way of Lindsay. 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Wildflower, northwest of Frye & Price at the Chandler Mall.

Thursday 1/1/04 9:00am Kiwanis Park. We must of course start the new year with a ride. We're open to suggestions for route and breakfast destination.

Tid bits...

How DO you stay warm when riding in the cold? Tips then torso. Not a Hannibal recipe... it's the order of layering. As the temp begins to drop, first cover your "tips". Fingers, ears, arms, legs. Then add layers to your torso, a few light to medium layers works better than one heavy layer. The inner layer against your skin should be something that wicks away sweat. The outer layer should be adjustable, something with a zipper front that you can open on the climbs and close on the descents.

Either that or just head straight to the bagel place for hot chocolate. :-)

Ride safe.

 

December 7 Spin Cycle Report

Added December 7, 2003

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 19 riders today take on the Milk Run, a.k.a options tour, a.k.a construction tour. Well, at least construction tour wasn't there, except for the little bit on Alma School. Overall, a great ride, with the group maintaining a good steady pace throughout. We even maintained a good presence on the road, stopping for traffic and obeying all road rules, great job gang.

We even had a memorable quote, but not by someone from the group. One of the waitresses at Wildflower asked Gene if he was using the highchair!!!! He said yes, but decided to give it up to the youngster. There were several other memorable quotes at breakfast, but sorry to say I can't quote them. I would also like to welcome Randy, a recent transplant from Tucson and GABA member down there.

Ride Schedule

12/14 8:00 AM - McKellupeloop - A route down McKellips and back on Guadalupe. Mileage options of 34, 39 or 50 miles. All mostly flat. Breakfast at Neighbors Cafe.

12/21 8:00 AM - Ohcotukee Loop - Down to Ocotillo, then to Ahwatukee, and back. Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles, with 35 with slight hills and 45 with more hills. Breakfast at Brueggers Bagels.

12/28 8:00 AM - Last ride in 2003 - Germann/Hunt Loop - out to Germann and then back on Hunt. Mileage options of 33 or 42 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower.

Other info:

Saturday 12/13/03 4:00pm. Jack & Jan Graham invite all to their abode for our annual holiday party. They'll provide lasagna and non-alcoholic beverages. You bring a side dish to share and BYOB if you want. If you plan to attend, RVSP. We'll have a hand out with directions to Jack's place next Saturday morning. General area is southwest of Warner and Hardy in south Tempe.

 

December 6 Saturday Cycling Report

Added December 6, 2003

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Amazing the people you see on "free food" days! We had 78 riders head out of the park this morning on their quest to try and burn enough calories to earn eating themselves silly at the club hosted breakfast. Looking at the plates going by... some of those riders musta put in a lot of miles! Actually, the perfect Arizona winter weather made for a great pedal before the meeting. We managed to talk the same four members into serving as officers again for another year. Your fearless leaders are now President Kathy Hendricks, Treasurer Bob Beane, VP Paul Nichols, and Sec Jane Larson. Gary "Skater" Wachsmuth and Linda Matson have agreed to step up to our board.

Coming up...

Saturday 12/13/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Traditional wandering amidst the Ahwatukee Foothills. Route options 24 miles with no climbing or 34 miles with some moderate climbing. Breakfast Village Inn, northwest of Hardy & Elliott.

Saturday 12/13/03 4:00pm. Jack & Jan Graham invite all to their abode for our annual holiday party. They'll provide lasagna and non-alcoholic beverages. You bring a side dish to share and BYOB if you want. If you plan to attend, RVSP to yours truly at suefassett@att.net. We'll have a hand out with directions to Jack's place next Saturday morning. General area is southwest of Warner and Hardy in south Tempe.

Saturday 12/20/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. The St. Francis Loop offers a little of everything as we romp through town and over dale. Route options 26 miles or 36 miles, moderate climbing on both routes. Breakfast at IHOP, southwest corner Apache & College.

Saturday 12/27/03 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Our last ride of 2003 takes us on a loop to the southeast by way of Lindsay. 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is Wildflower, northwest of Frye & Price at the Chandler Mall.

Tid bits...

Next Saturday we head to the Village of Ahwatukee. For those of us who have been riding in this area for a long time, that ride is a classic. Pecos road was laid down before the houses and for years it was our personal playground. That is no more, and we now share that beautiful desert landscape with thousands of residents. Some of the citizens there have developed a poor perception of our sport, because a few cyclists ride their streets with a lack of respect and responsiblity. When you ride in Ahwatukee, either solo or with us or with a racing team, do so with the mindset that it is YOUR neighborhood. Be the example... no more than two abreast on the road, obey traffic signals, be friendly to the people you encounter there.

Peace is a precious thing in today's world.

Ride safe.