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December 23 Saturday Cycling Report

New Year's Holiday weekend

Added January 5, 2018

written by Ken St. John

The New Year's Holiday weekend attracted forty-nine cyclists who enjoyed a comfortable flat-road ride to the east. We may not be getting a real winter, but we are in the midst of a significant change of seasons: from Holiday to Tax. But before the W2s arrive, we have one more holiday! The day after the Jan 14 Casa Grande Century (just 9 days away) is MLK day! If anyone would like to lead a Monday ride that day, please let me know and I'll help promote it.

Coming up...

Saturday, 01/06/18 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. St. Francis Loop
Both the 25-mile and 36-mile options include three moderate hills, taking you north through Papago Park, around the St. Francis Cemetery, and returning to Tempe via south Scottsdale. Breakfast at Panera Bread on McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 7:33

Saturday, 01/13/18 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Sue
Tour de Sue is a flat loop to the south, with route options of 25 or 35 miles. Both routes include a good long stretch with no traffic lights. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co (SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot). Sunrise: 7:33, and heading downward.

Saturday, 01/20/18 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain
A 40-mile loop with lots of climbing, or 31 miles with a couple of moderate climbs, takes us north into Scottsdale and around Mummy Mountain. Breakfast stop at Panera Bread, McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 7:31

Tid Bits...

Board member Bob Fulleman told me about this app: https://project529.com/garage. He says it's a national bike registry that is used by law enforcement and pawn shops to identify and recover stolen bicycles. You can even attach pictures to help cement your case for ownership. You might want to give it a look.

Former board member and avid bicycle tourist Tom sent me a call for input regarding US Bike Route 90, which traverses our state in a mostly east-west direction. It rolls through both Phoenix and Tucson. Adventure Cycling Association has mapped a similar route across AZ as part of the Southern Tier route. They both cross the CA/AZ boarder at I-10, but the ACA route goes through Globe instead of Tucson and meets with MN further north. Someone thinks Adventure Cycling should change their route to match USBR 90 and they want to know what you think. Here is a map of USBR 90, and one of ACA Southern Tier through AZ. Your comments can be emailed to Carla Majernik of ACA.

Events

2018 Casa Grande Century – Sunday January 14

2018 Casa Grande Century
Casa Grande Century Needs Volunteers
Help is still needed for lunch service, rest stops and sign placement

GABA Tucson Mission Road Ramble – Sunday, February 18
GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

December 15 Saturday Cycling Report

Ahwatukee Foothill Routes Continue to Suffer from Road Closures

Added December 19, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

The Ahwatukee Foothill routes continue to suffer from road closures in the loop-202 construction zone. However, one of them actually worked to our advantage this time.

Hearing that Performance Bicycle has discontinued their Saturday morning group ride, I wondered if we would see a sudden spike in participation at Kiwanis Park. At 41 cyclists, it hasn't happened yet; but we did make one new friend, which is a great start.

Thanks to our good friend Spence, the route maps for our next two Saturday rides are posted on RideWithGPS. The links are included below. I'll still bring plenty of old-school maps to the sign-in table. And a New Years Day ride has been added to the schedule.

Coming up...

Wednesday, 12/19/18 7:00 p.m., NE corner of Ray and McClintock. Cookies and Christmas Lights
Spread the Holiday cheer! It is time to see the holiday lights and, of course, eat cookies. The route will be about 15-20 miles ALL FLAT, and the pace will be slow as we enjoy seeing the neighborhood the old-fashioned way—by bicycle! For post-ride libations some may want to go to Zipps just one mile north on McClintock. Remember to dress warmly and be sure your bike is well lit; festive holiday lighting would be a plus. RSVP to Neal Thomas.

Saturday, 12/22/18 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Mesa Rewound
SC 01S Tour De Mesa Rewound Short
SC 01L Tour De Mesa Rewound Long
Distance options of 32 miles with no climbing, or 44 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Panera Bread at McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 7:29

Saturday, 12/29/18 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. South Mountain
SC 02S South Mtn. Std Route
SC 02M South Mtn. Moderate Route
SC 02A South Mtn. Advanced Route
Route options of 24 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 38 miles with moderate climbing, or 39 miles with the longest steady climb within 20 miles of Kiwanis Park. Breakfast is at AZ Bread, southeast of Elliot & Kyrene. Sunrise: 7:32

Tuesday, 01/01/19 8:30 a.m., Tortilla Flat and End of Pavement
Neal and Lenore will be leading this ride from The Old West Highway and Apache Trail (take Idaho Road off the 60). This annual ride has gone by the wayside with the terrible road to Tortilla Flat. The road is now new. Let's get the annual ritual going again. It starts at the Antique Store. The ride is out and back with 42 miles to EOP and 31 miles to Tortilla Flat. It is a gorgeous ride.

Saturday, 01/05/19 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Chandler/Gilbert Bronze
Gilbert and Chandler are each Bronze level bicycle friendly communities. We'll ride through both communities with route options of 25 or 35 miles. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. at the SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 7:33

Tid Bits...

Speaking of making new friends, a few cyclists from the Veterans Service Organization Team Red, White & Blue are planning to start riding with us in the new year. They are a National VSO with several Chapters in Arizona (Phoenix, Tucson, Yuma, Sierra Vista, Flagstaff, Prescott) whose main mission is to help Veterans reintegrate into their communities through physical and social activities. They are planning a statewide cycling event to be held in the Phoenix/Tempe area over the weekend of 18 January. They discovered our Saturday ride from the Landis Cyclery web site.

Another edition of the Arizona Bicycle Classic is coming on April 15. Early-bird pricing is available before Jan 3. There are 3 distances: 28, 56, and 78 miles, starting and ending at Jake's Corner, about 80 miles NE of Phoenix. The course along State Route 188 has awesome Wild West views, mostly wide shoulders, little traffic, and mild terrain with rolling hills. There will be prizes before each ride to bicycle trivia winners. There are water/snack stations every 15 miles, as well as SAG support and a delicious lunch afterward.

Events

Christmas Lights Ride – Wednesday, Dec 19
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Volunteer here!

Bike MS Arizona – March 30-31
Arizona Bicycle Classic – Saturday April 13

Have fun and ride safely.

December 8 Saturday Cycling Report

An Eerie Ride in the Fog

Added December 16, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Forty-nine cyclists set out for an eerie ride in the fog to reach the final quarterly membership meeting of 2018. Persistent fog is pretty rare in the desert; I can't remember when we've ever encountered it on a Saturday morning before. To add to the eeriness, the pack at the back was delayed by a fatal car accident on Chandler Blvd that seemed unrelated to the fog and was definitely not related to our presence on the road. It was a sobering experience to try lending aid when there was no hope. Not that we weren't already sober to begin with.

I believe the construction mess is still blocking parts of Liberty Lane, and we will need to make some detours for our next ride. This week they are also closing 40th street between Frye and Pecos. We use a short stretch of that closed portion to get from Briarwood Terrace to Frye which might have to be a sidewalk segment this time.

Coming up...

Saturday, 12/15/18 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Foothills Training Ride
Ride with us on a loop through the Ahwatukee Foothills with options of 25 miles with a couple of gentle climbs, or 38 miles that will take you up 5 bigger hills. If you follow the spaghetti-bowl long-route map, you will have gone up and down all 5 approaches with no repeats and no U-turns. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. on the SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 7:25

Saturday, 12/22/18 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Mesa Rewound
Distance options of 32 miles with no climbing, or 44 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Panera Bread at McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 7:29

Saturday, 12/29/18 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. South Mountain
Summer will be over and it's time to climb the mountain. Route options of 24 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 38 miles with moderate climbing, or 39 miles with the longest steady climb within 20 miles of Kiwanis Park. Breakfast is at AZ Bread, southeast of Elliot & Kyrene. Sunrise: 7:32

Tid Bits...

President Janet presided over the final membership meeting of her two terms. Kevin Craig was elected to replace her as President next year. The other three officers, Jim, Kris and Denise, we're all elected for another term. Big thanks to all five for taking on the leadership roles!

Another agenda topic at the meeting was the plan to provide a Smart Cycling course for club members in February. Ride leader Kathy is certified by the League of American Bicyclists to teach their Smart Cycling curriculum which she will use for our course. The course includes some classroom time and an on-road session. It covers best practices for safely riding in traffic, equipment checks, bike handling skills and emergency maneuvering for accident avoidance. I plan to take the course, which is a prerequisite to becoming a League Certified Instructor (LCI) and would encourage all of you to make the time as well. An EventBrite sign-up will be available soon. Some information can be found at https://bikeleague.org/ridesmart.

Events

Christmas Lights Ride – Wednesday, Dec 19
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Volunteer here!

Bike MS Arizona – March 30-31

Have fun and ride safely.

December 1 Saturday Cycling Report

Glen Has Led Geno's Free Ride 15 Years in a Row

Added December 9, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Wow! Glen has now led Geno's Free Ride 15 years in a row. It was just called the Free Ride back when Geno was still volunteering at the main rest stop. My memory isn't the best, but I can't recall a year when the weather wasn't almost as beautiful as it was this year. We had a good turnout and a great time. Thank you to Glen, and to all his volunteers.

Coming up...

Saturday, 12/08/17 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Chandler-Pecos East
We're returning to the Hungry Monk for our Quarterly Membership Meeting, and a small change to this route will get us there. Breakfast is free for members; two free breakfasts are included in a family membership. The extra-long route sails east on Chandler Blvd all the way from Rural to Power, returning by way of Pecos. Distance options are 28, 34 and 42 miles; the shorter routes simply head over to Pecos a little earlier. Breakfast at The Hungry Monk on the north side of Chandler Blvd, just east of Dobson. Sunrise: 7:20

Saturday, 12/15/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Foothills Training Ride
Ride with us on a loop through the Ahwatukee Foothills with options of 25 miles with a couple of gentle climbs, or 38 miles that will take you up 5 bigger hills. If you follow the spaghetti-bowl long-route map, you will have gone up and down all 5 approaches with no repeats and no U-turns. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. on the SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 7:25

Wednesday, 12/19/18 7:00 pm, NE corner of Ray and McClintock. Cookies and Christmas Lights
Spread the Holiday cheer! It is time to see the holiday lights and, of course, eat cookies. The route will be about 15-20 miles ALL FLAT, and the pace will be slow as we enjoy seeing the neighborhood the old-fashioned way—by bicycle! For post-ride libations some may want to go to Zipps just one mile north on McClintock. Remember to dress warmly and be sure your bike is well lit. RSVP to Neal Thomas.

Tid Bits...

We had enough people show up for our parade entry on Saturday to make a bright shiny spectacle of ourselves. I'm told you can find pictures on the PMBC facebook page. It's always exciting to be part of a happening, and this parade was a happening! With 64 entrants on a 3/4 mile route, I calculated that the first floats would be finished before the last ones hit the starting line. The entire length was lined deep with appreciative waving spectators who did seem to think we were something to see. And it is good to be recognized in the community as the fun friendly people we are. But parades stop and go like rush-hour traffic on the 101, and the pace when we did move was painfully slow making it hard to ride a tandem in a straight line. It looked like the bikes were not the only things lit. Now we just need the battery powered lights to last through the 19th for the Christmas Cookie ride, which will be at a moderate but steady pace.

Events

PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Christmas Lights Ride – Wednesday, Dec 19
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Volunteer here!

Bike MS Arizona – March 30-31

Have fun and ride safely.

November 24 Saturday Cycling Report

A Great Day for MidSummer's Ride

Added November 28, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

We had 43 cyclists for the moderately hilly MidSummer's Ride. The weather, the road conditions, light traffic, no construction detours, and fun companions all contributed to make it a great day to ride. I hear people had a good time on the Thursday and Friday holiday rides too. Thanks to Scott and Neal for making those happen!

I remembered to announce that the start time changes to 8:30 for December and January. What I forgot to say was: THERE IS NO RIDE FROM KIWANIS PARK THIS SATURDAY. Instead we will be at Geno's Free Ride in Mesa. Hope to see you all there!

Coming up...

Saturday, 12/01/18 8:30 a.m., Red Mountain Park, Mesa. Geno's Free Ride
Three route options: 25 miles, 40 miles, and 60 miles with plenty of hill climbing for those opting to ride the longer routes. Food and drinks will be provided along the way and a catered lunch will be at the end of the ride. Best of all, this fully-supported ride is FREE to PMBC members! Please pre-register.
This will replace Saturday Cycling; there will be no ride from Kiwanis Park on Dec 1.Sunrise: 7:14

Tid Bits...

The Casa Grande Century is PMBC's largest sponsored annual ride and is one of primary fundraisers that allows the club to sustain itself. Please consider volunteering to help make it a success; sign up to volunteer.

The number of people signed up so far to roll with us in the Chandler Parade of Lights is a bit low. Even if you didn't sign up, feel free to join us with lights on at 6:30pm Saturday on the east side of AZ Avenue 1 block south of Frye. Coming with bells on would be great too. Register here.

Events

PMBC Geno's Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1

Register
Volunteer

Chandler Parade of Lights – Saturday, Dec 1
Sign up to participate
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Christmas Lights Ride – Wednesday, Dec 19
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Volunteer here!

Bike MS Arizona – March 30-31

Have fun and ride safely.

November 17 Saturday Cycling Report

Saturday Cycling Crowd Dwindled Down to 27

Added November 25, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Between el Tour de Tucson and a Global Bikes event ride, our Saturday Cycling crowd dwindled down to 27 this week. The Lucky 7's route did not quite live up to its charmed title. Our first obstacle was Gilbert's annual civic pride festival which didn't close any of the roads we needed but detoured a lot of traffic alongside us. Then there was a road closure on Higley for a running event; I hear they let our cyclists ride on through. And for the second week in a row we were forced to detour due to a Loop 202 related road closure, cutting off the entire Wild Horse Pass segment. As I imagine they often say at the casinos we didn't ride by: "better luck next time".

PMBC is offering group rides on both Thursday and Friday of the coming holiday weekend. Details below.

Coming up...

Thursday 11/22/17 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park, One or the other version of Tour de Lehi
This ride starting from Kiwanis Park in Tempe will take you on a loop to the northeast through the community of Lehi and return back to Kiwanis Park with a breakfast stop at Einstein's Bagel on the NW corner of McClintock and Guadalupe Rds. Sunrise 7:06

Friday 11/23/17 8:00 a.m., 2560 W. Chandler Blvd, Black Friday Ride
The annual "Just Say No to Shopping" ride will start and end at the Einstein Bagel on the north side of Chandler Blvd just East of the 101. Route options of 26 and 36 miles explore some roads in the far SE corner of Phoenix Metro. Sunrise: 7:07

Saturday, 11/24/18 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Midsummer Ride
This route was designed to seek out maximum shade on summer mornings when the sun is farthest north and most brutal. In the winter and spring, it's just another route, much like the others. It includes options of 28 miles with one short climb, or 38 miles with a couple of bonus climbs. Breakfast at Panera Bread at Guadalupe Rd and McClintock Dr. Sunrise: 7:08

Saturday, 12/01/18 8:30 a.m., Red Mountain Park, Mesa. Geno's Free Ride
Three route options: 25 miles, 40 miles, and 60 miles with plenty of hill climbing for those opting to ride the longer routes. Food and drinks will be provided along the way and a catered lunch will be at the end of the ride. Best of all, this fully-supported ride is FREE to PMBC members! Please pre-register.
This will replace Saturday Cycling; there will be no ride from Kiwanis Park on Dec 1.Sunrise: 7:14

Tid Bits...

Two repeats from last week's report:

There is an EventBrite sign-up for participation in the December 1st Chandler Parade of Lights. We've limited it to club members only and capped it at 40 participants to make sure we fit the space allotted. Parade rules include that each of us have a minimum of 100 lights on our ourselves or our bikes. I've found battery powered light strings at Target and Home Depot in the past. Logistical details will be provided to those who register.

Volunteers are needed for Geno's Free Ride! Sign up to help at: https://freeridevolunteer.eventbrite.com. Or else register as a participant at http://genosfreeride.eventbrite.com.

Events

PMBC Geno's Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1

Chandler Parade of Lights – Saturday, Dec 1
Sign up to participate
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Christmas Lights Ride – Wednesday, Dec 19
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Volunteer here!

Bike MS Arizona – March 30-31

Have fun and ride safely.

November 10 Saturday Cycling Report

Forty-two Cyclists Returned to the Ahwatukee Foothills

Added November 18, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Forty-two cyclists returned to the Ahwatukee foothills last weekend, with a minor route adjustment to circumvent the never-ending construction on Liberty Lane. The folks at AZ Bread were happy so see us return to them as well. If you ever get hungry on the other days of the week you'll find the same warm friendly service for breakfast and lunch there any day except Monday when they rest.

The deteriorating condition of the Ahwatukee roads has been apparent to cyclists for a while. Our plight received some publicity when the Ahwatukee Foothills News made it their top story in last Wednesday's edition. The article centers on cyclist Stuart Anderson's fatal accident and quotes a couple of local cyclists who rode with him. It also includes a quote from the "Phoenix Metro Bicycling Club's blog" which was text copied from one of my previous ride reports. They didn't give me personal credit, but they did elevate me with the title of "blogger", which I'm sure is very special. We should give the city credit where it is due: Lakewood Parkway is now smooth and new, after having been one of the worst of the crumbling messes. Which street will they fix next, I wonder? And when?

Here's a link to the article.

Coming up...

Saturday, 11/17/18 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Lucky 7's
The Lucky 7's route loops clockwise to the south, through the Wild Horse Pass casino/resort area and parts of Ahwatukee. The name plays off the mileage options of 27, 37 and 47 miles, plus the 2 casinos along the way. Breakfast is at AZ Bread Co at Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 7:02

Friday 11/23/17 8:00 a.m., 2560 W. Chandler Blvd, Black Friday Ride
The annual "Just Say No To Shopping" ride will start and end at the Einstein Bagel on the north side of Chandler Blvd just East of the 101. Route options of 26 and 36 miles explore some roads in the far SE corner of Phoenix Metro. Sunrise: 7:07

Saturday, 12/01/18 8:30 a.m., Red Mountain Park, Mesa. Geno's Free Ride
Three route options: 25 miles, 40 miles, and 60 miles with plenty of hill climbing for those opting to ride the longer routes. Food and drinks will be provided along the way and a catered lunch will be at the end of the ride. Best of all, this fully-supported ride is FREE to PMBC members! Please pre-register.
This will replace Saturday Cycling; there will be no ride from Kiwanis Park on Dec 1.Sunrise: 7:14

Tid Bits...

PMBC Nominating Committee Presents Slate of Officers for 2019

Neal and Lenore's annual Christmas Lights and Cookies Ride will be on the evening of Wednesday Dec 19. Another opportunity to use those festive battery powered lights. Details will be provided as we get closer.

Now that our South Mountain route is back in the rotation, we'll need to watch out for the welcomed roadway improvement activity on the San Juan road. Also good to remember that San Juan road is open to all vehicle traffic on the first Saturday of each month, other times it's motorist free. More good news for the parks people: from December through March Silent Sunday will be every Sunday of the month! They're calling it a pilot program; I hope that enough cyclists get out there to make it a success. Read more...

Volunteers are needed for Geno's Free Ride! Please contact Glen Fletcher if you would like to help out.

It's also time for participants to register for the ride.

Events

El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Geno's Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
Chandler Parade of Lights – Saturday, Dec 1
Sign up to participate
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Christmas Lights Ride – Wednesday, Dec 19
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13
Bike MS Arizona – March 30-31

Have fun and ride safely.

November 3 Saturday Cycling Report

Mild Windless morning for Length of Lindsay

Added November 11, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

November came in like a lamb as usual. It was a mild windless morning for the 37 cyclists who rode out to Lindsay together. Nice to have the sun be an ally again.

The construction on Liberty Lane in the Foothills is still ongoing, and now has spilled onto Desert Foothills Parkway, completely closing the access to Liberty that is part of the extended route for this week's ride. Rather than continue to postpone the foothills routes, I have penciled in some changes for this week only. Both standard and extended routes will return east on Chandler Blvd, turning south on 24th street (at the crest of the small hill just west of the Ray-Chandler loop) which will take us back to Liberty beyond the messy construction zone.

Coming up...

Saturday, 11/10/18 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. 8th Street Ail
The extended-distance option includes an out-and-back that goes as far west as the road will take us, plus several steep hills including northbound 8th Street from Chandler Blvd to Desert Foothills Parkway. Breakfast is at AZ Bread Co. Sunrise: 6:55

Friday, 11/23/17 8:00 a.m., 2560 W. Chandler Blvd, Black Friday Ride
The annual "Just Say No To Shopping" ride will start and end at the Einstein Bagel on the north side of Chandler Blvd just East of the 101. Route options of 26 and 36 miles explore some roads in the far SE corner of Phoenix Metro. Sunrise: 7:07

Tid Bits...

Scott will be leading the traditional Black Friday Ride on Nov 23rd. The map is available on the web site as a pdf, and an electronic version is available from Ride with GPS.

I am unavailable Thanksgiving Day. If anyone else would like to lead a holiday ride on the 22nd, please let me know. We often use the Length of Lehi route to work up our appetites.

As an alternative to Saturday Cycling this Veterans Day weekend, Performance Bicycle in Chandler is hosting a No Vet Alone charity ride. There is no cost, and they provide a lunch and store discounts. I'd bring some cash given that it is intended as a fund raiser; I have to imagine there will opportunities to donate.

According to our bylaws, members have until Nov. 15 to make a play for one of the elected board positions that we will vote on at the Dec. meeting. Don't be shy.

Events

No Vet Alone Ride – Saturday Nov 10, Performance Bicycle
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
Chandler Parade of Lights – Saturday, Dec 1
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13
Bike MS Arizona – March 30-31

Have fun and ride safely.

October 27 Saturday Cycling Report

Enjoying the Rolling Hills of Paradise Valley

Added October 31, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

It was a wonderful day for forty-eight cyclists to enjoy the rolling hills of Paradise Valley. We also had the pleasure of welcoming back Jesse who was a regular with us some five years ago and has returned. And we got to meet newcomer Heather who seems ready and willing to become hooked on recreational cycling. We're just the club to make it happen - a bunch of enablers.

Coming up...

Saturday, 11/03/18 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Length of Lindsay
The Length of Lindsay takes us to the east, with route options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Panera Bread on the SE corner of Guadalupe and McClintock. Sunrise: 6:49

Tid Bits...

If you were at the last quarterly meeting you probably heard that PMBC has been accepted as an entrant in the Chandler Parade of Lights on December 1st. Participation in this event is for members only, so we don't have to spend on supplemental insurance. Since illumination is a central feature of this holiday parade, we would like to see bikes decorated with battery powered holiday lights, and riders wearing our club colors. I think we'll be enough of a spectacle to make kids point and stare. I'll be going to an informational meeting for participants on Nov. 6 and will have more to report then.

The City of Chandler is soliciting public comment on their plans to add more bike lanes on Kyrene and McClintock by reducing the width of the median. https://www.chandleraz.gov/residents/transportation In the current budget plan, construction would happen in 2021, but hear there is a chance that could be improved upon. I think good public input might be "Hooray! Spare no expenses in expediting this project; 2019 completion should be the goal!"

In the spirt of Halloween: IT'S ALIVE!!! You can now register on-line for the Casa Grande Century.

Events

PMBC Chili Cookoff – Saturday, Nov 03, 3pm
No Vet Alone Ride – Saturday Nov 10, Performance Bicycle
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
Chandler Parade of Lights – Saturday, Dec 1
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13
Bike MS Arizona – March 30-31

Have fun and ride safely.

October 13 Saturday Cycling Report

21 Cyclists Took on Wettest Saturday Ride

Added October 21, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

That was the wettest Saturday ride I can remember since January of 2013. Back then, only two of us were willing to get soaked; this time 21 cyclists took on the rain. I had suggested that anyone who took the long route should expect to get wet, but the standard route saw a steady downpour as well. I counted three bikes with fenders, one belt-drive, about 1/2 of the cyclists had rain jackets, and most had blinking lights. I also counted 4 who turned back before we got to Queen Creek and some of them got drenched anyway. Thankfully it was not dangerously cold; I saw some chattering teeth, but no hypothermia.

I want to thank Bill and Sharon who turned their tandem back early and then met the rest of us at AZ Bread with big dry towels. It's friends like those who make PMBC a great club.

Janet and I have signed up for the Arizona Bicycle Classic next Saturday. Kathy will be at Kiwanis to lead the Marco Polo route. The current forecast says we'll be dry through Saturday, with more rain arriving Sunday. We'll have to wait and see how that evolves.

Coming up...

Saturday, 10/20/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Marco Polo
The 26-mile standard route goes east on Guadalupe for 12 miles, then loops back on Elliot. The 41-mile long route keeps going east all the way to Ellsworth, then heads a little further south before rejoining the Elliot return path. Breakfast at Panera Bread, McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 6:37

Saturday, 10/27/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain
A 40-mile loop with lots of climbing, or 31 miles with a couple of moderate climbs, takes us north into Scottsdale and around Mummy Mountain. Breakfast stop at Panera Bread, McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 6:43

Tid Bits...

I don't know of Saturday Cycling ever being canceled due to weather. I suppose if it were the day hell froze and we had ice on our roads we would cancel, or in the event of dangerously close lightning, or extremely high wind. My general commitment is that I will be there rain or shine and ride with anyone else who shows up.

The Tour de Sue route we just did in the rain got 3 votes to be eliminated in the survey, but I didn't see any comments explaining why. One member suggested to me in email that it could be the section of the long route north of Riggs and the difficult left turn from there onto Maricopa Rd. Since I took the standard route I was unable to evaluate the situation this time. I'm inclined to keep it in the rotation because it gives us the longest stretches with no traffic lights of any route. Please let me know of any specific problems and maybe we can make some improvements.

Events

Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
Rob Dollar Ride – Sunday, Oct 28, 8am, South Mountain Park
PMBC Chili Cookoff – Saturday, Nov 03, 3pm
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13
Bike MS Arizona – March 30-31

Have fun and ride safely.

October 6 Saturday Cycling Report

Perfect Weather for St. Francis Loop

Added October 14, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

It was perfect weather for the thirty-three cyclists who rode the St. Francis Loop.

The Tour de Fat parade starts later than it used to. We took the standard route at a moderate pace, stopping on Mill Ave for a patio breakfast with a view of the bike traffic, but the most exciting thing we saw was our own long-route riders zipping south. By the time we left, the vendor booths were operating, and we were able to say hello to some friends from CAzB, TBAG and Rob Dollar Foundation among others.

Coming up...

Saturday, 10/13/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Sue
Tour de Sue is a flat loop to the south, with route options of 25 or 35 miles. Both routes include a good long stretch with no traffic lights. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co (SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot). Sunrise: 6:32

Tid Bits...

Sympathy to those who were training for the Tour de Scottsdale. I hear it was canceled abruptly due to storm damaged roads.

Phoenix Spokes People are hosting their Fourth annual Bike Bazaar on Saturday, October 20. Vendors will be located along Pierce street at the Downtown Phoenix Public Market and there will also be a "bike swap".

Events

Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
Rob Dollar Ride – Sunday, Oct 28, 8am, South Mountain Park
PMBC Chili Cookoff – Saturday, Nov 03, 3pm
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13
Bike MS Arizona – March 30-31

Have fun and ride safely.

September 29 Saturday Cycling Report

Seeking Alternative Routes for South Mountain

Added October 7, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

All forty-one cyclists who signed in were warned up front that Dobbins had construction hazards. Many of us sought alternative routes to avoid it and Baseline as well. I tested two routes that I will now always avoid in the future: taking Baseline all the way west to Central didn't go well and taking Central north to Southern for the return loop was a bad idea too. I was also unhappy with southbound 48th street; I don't see Southern working out as a Baseline bypass on the return.

Tour de Fat is next Saturday. If you want to participate, our ride route will take you right there. And if you just want to witness some silliness, you could consider having your breakfast along Mill Ave where you can watch the participants rolling towards the Town Lake.

========= 7:30 START TIME FOR ALL OF OCTOBER ===========

Coming up...

Saturday, 10/06/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. St. Francis Loop
Both the 25-mile and 36-mile options include three moderate hills, taking you north through Papago Park, around the St. Francis Cemetery, and returning to Tempe via south Scottsdale. Breakfast at Panera Bread on McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 6:26

Tid Bits...

Due to the road work on Liberty, we will postpone any foothills rides until November.

Walt Paciorek will hold a Bike Patrol certification class on Sunday 10/14 after the Sunday Kickoff ride. Certification is valid for two years at all Perimeter Bicycling events such as Tour De Tucson in November and Tour De Mesa in April.

For more information about Bike Patrol, visit http://www.perimeterbicycling.com/bike-patrol and for more information about certification classes, contact Walt Paciorek.

Events

Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
Rob Dollar Ride – Sunday, Oct 28, 8am, South Mountain Park
PMBC Chili Cookoff – Saturday, Nov 03, 3pm
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

September 22 Saturday Cycling Report

Equinox Technicality

Added September 30, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Saturday was the first day of the fall season. However, I was informed that the actual equinox did not occur until 6-something that evening. So technically, that was our last ride of summer, not the week before. Other than having one more sign-in for a total of 36 cyclists, this week's ride report is 'ditto' of last weeks, clouds and all.

Coming up...

Saturday, 09/29/18 7:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. South Mountain
Summer will be over and it's time to climb the mountain. Route options of 24 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 38 miles with moderate climbing, or 39 miles with the longest steady climb within 20 miles of Kiwanis Park. Breakfast is at AZ Bread, southeast of Elliot & Kyrene. Sunrise: 6:21

Tid Bits...

In response to the survey results, I am penciling in some options on the South Mountain map for this Saturday with the goal of avoiding the fast, heavy traffic on Baseline.

My least favorite part is the eastbound return leg, where the motorists seem to be ramping up to highway speed as they approach I-10. The new return-route will have us continue north on 24th street to take Southern (does not connect to I-10) east to 48th and avoid Baseline altogether. There is no bike lane on that one-mile stretch of 48th; we'll have to see how that goes.

In my opinion, the earlier westbound leg on Baseline isn't so bad, other than the left turn at 24th St. You could opt to take Southern then as well, but you would still have 1 mile with no bike lane, two big left turns, and it would add another 2 miles to the round-trip distance.

Although I won't route Saturday Cycling onto a mixed-use canal path – they are not suitable for high speed group riding – I did pencil in the off-road option that begins at 40th St. There is also a way to bypass the no-bike-lane part of Baseline by taking 48th St ½ mile north, and going east on Vineyard to loop back to Baseline at 40th St. From there, Baseline or the canal path are your options west. I made the test map really messy by drawing this option too.

Whichever route you take, I'm looking forward to hearing your feedback after the ride.

Events

Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Cottonwood Tour and Wine Tasting - October 13-14
Deadline to RSVP to Kris is 9/28!!
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
Rob Dollar Ride – Sunday, Oct 28, 8am, South Mountain Park
PMBC Chili Cookoff – Saturday, Nov 03, 3pm
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

September 15 Saturday Cycling Report

The Last Summer Saturday of the Year

Added September 23, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Thirty-five cyclist rode together on the last summer Saturday of the year. The season was still plenty hot, but unexpected cloud cover provided extra relief. Now that summer is over, those who have been waiting for perfect weather can come on back and ride with us!

Coming up...

Saturday, 09/22/18 7:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Mesa Rewound
Distance options of 32 miles with no climbing, or 44 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Panera Bread at McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 6:17

Tid Bits...

As I mentioned before, I am now ordering the rotation to favor variety of route without the constraint of alternating weekly between the two breakfast venues. That's why we'll be at Panera two weeks in a row. It will all even out over each quarter year. The October 6th hill-climber is the first exception to the attempt to alternate hilly and flat routes. I did that to be sure we will return up Mill Ave to witness some of the Tour de Fat silliness in Tempe.

I don't know how much this has gotten around yet, but some of the more progressive ride leaders have started the process of getting our routes organized under Ride with GPS. I am now at risk of learning new tricks, 18 years into the new millennium. For the foreseeable future, Saturday Cycling will still be using old-school hardcopies of PowerPoint maps. Other of the weekly rides have maps ready to download.

On the subject of maps: ADOT has come out with a mobile-friendly version of their Arizona Bicycle Users Map.

Events

Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Cottonwood Tour and Wine Tasting - October 13-14
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
Rob Dollar Ride – Sunday, Oct 28, 8am, South Mountain Park
PMBC Chili Cookoff – Saturday, Nov 03, 3pm
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

September 8 Saturday Cycling Report

Forty-three cyclists enjoyed the Chandler-Pecos East Loop

Added September 16, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Forty-three cyclists enjoyed the Chandler-Pecos East Loop on Saturday. This route got two votes for improvement needed in the recent survey which didn't surprise me. While visitors might enjoy seeing our thriving historic downtown districts, Saturday Cyclists prefer the roads with fewer traffic lights, and nice safe bike lanes. I will probably make some revisions before it comes around again.

Summer officially ends the day we ride the Tour de Mesa. Our first climbing route of autumn will be South Mountain. Maybe that should be a tradition. Though 5 people voted to be rid of that one, and 2 think it needs improvement, I still consider it a keeper. The main issue appears to be the traffic on Baseline. We will likely have an alternative approach to test-ride on the 29th.

Coming up...

Saturday, 09/15/18 7:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Midsummer Ride
This route was designed to seek out maximum shade on summer mornings when the sun is farthest north and most brutal. In the winter and spring, it's just another route, much like the others. It includes options of 28 miles with one short climb, or 38 miles with a couple of bonus climbs. Breakfast at Panera Bread at Guadalupe Rd and McClintock Dr. Sunrise: 6:12

Tid Bits...

Thank you to all who donated bikes and bike parts to WeCycle at the last membership meeting. In the days leading up to my vacation I neglected to remind Robert about being there, and I hear he didn't show. As it turns out, he was dealing with open heart surgery that week, so I gave him a pass. Thank you also to Bob who hauled all the loot to our storage unit. Yesterday I delivered all the donations to Robert. Though he wasn't able to help me with the heavy lifting, he did very much appreciate the donations. WeCycle has more volunteer opportunities coming up in October as they participate in Tour de Fat and the Rob Dollar Ride.

Speaking of the Rob Dollar Ride…PMBC has agreed to occupy an information booth at the event. President Janet would love to have a couple of members-at-large to join with board member Rick to work the crowds and spread the good word about us at South Mountain Park on Sunday October 28.

PMBC members should have received notification of the Cottonwood Tour and Wine Tasting event October 13-14. The deadline to register is 9/28. If you think you're a member and didn't get the email blast, something has gone terribly wrong and you should contact VP Jim to fix it.

Events

Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 15
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Cottonwood Tour and Wine Tasting - October 13-14
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
Rob Dollar Ride – Sunday, Oct 28, 8am, South Mountain Park
PMBC Chili Cookoff – Saturday, Nov 03, 3pm
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

September 1 Saturday Cycling Report

44 Riders for First Ride in September

Added September 9, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

I'm back; we should see Kathy back this week too. It's late for a ride report, but I wanted to make sure the next two routes get posted on the web site sooner.

Here is Mike's report on last week's ride:

We had 44 cyclists show up for the first ride in September with a start time of 7 AM. As normally happens with Mummy Mountain, our group was spread out everywhere with some of our riders getting lost in the process of navigating the course. The weather was cooler than it has been in the past month, but high humidity for us Arizonians.

Coming up...

Saturday, 09/08/18 7:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Chandler/Gilbert Bronze
Gilbert and Chandler are each Bronze level bicycle friendly communities. We'll ride through both communities with route options of 25 or 35 miles. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. at the SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 6:07

Tid Bits...

The Rob Dollar Foundation is organizing a family fun day of cycling at South Mountain on the October 28 Silent Sunday, from 8:00am to noon. The event will offer cycling safety classes, entertainment for kids, food trucks, music and more for only $19.

Events

Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 15
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
Rob Dollar Ride – Sunday, Oct 28, 8am, South Mountain Park
PMBC Chili Cookoff – Saturday, Nov 03, 3pm
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

Paul Nichols Passed Away on July 11, 2018

Paul was a PMBC ride leader/organizer and PMBC Board member for several years.

Added August 26, 2018

submitted by Scott Barvian

Word has been received that Paul Nichols passed away on July 11. Paul and his wife Jane Larson led PMBC's four-day "J&P Tour" for 13 years. They also led the old Sunday Kokopedalli rides in Scottsdale, were organizers for the Casa Grande Century and served on the PMBC board, with Paul as VP for several years. According to Jane, "Paul and I met on a Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club weekly ride and married in 2005." and "A memorial service will be held Oct. 12 at the National Veterans Cemetery of Arizona."

Jane Larson and Paul Nichols

August 18 Saturday Cycling Report

Lucky 7's Splintered Pack

Added August 19, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

The forty-four cyclists on today's ride quickly splintered into many smaller packs thanks to disruptive traffic lights and the fact that there were 3 distance options. Even though it was a flat route, the 47-mile extra-long version proved challenging due to the heat alone.

I'll be unavailable for ride leading the next two Saturdays. Kathy will send you on your way to the club meeting and breakfast on the 25th. The following week, Mike Kirk will be there for the first 7:00 a.m. September start time.

Remember that We-Cycle-USA will be at the Hungry Monk next Saturday with a recycle barrel to accept your donations of used bike parts, tires, tubes or tools, anything that might help them refurbish used bikes that they will provide to kids and adults in need.

Coming up...

Saturday, 08/25/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Chandler-Pecos East
We're returning to the Hungry Monk for our Quarterly Membership Meeting, and a small change to this route will get us there. Breakfast is free for members; two free breakfasts are included in a family membership. Sign-in begins at 8:00 and the meeting starts at 8:45. The extra-long route sails east on Chandler Blvd all the way from Rural to Power, returning by way of Pecos. Distance options are 28, 34 and 42 miles; the shorter routes simply head over to Pecos a little earlier. Breakfast is at The Hungry Monk on the north side of Chandler Blvd, just east of Dobson. Sunrise: 5:58

Saturday, 09/01/18 7:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain
A 40-mile loop with lots of climbing, or 31 miles with a couple of moderate climbs, takes us north into Scottsdale and around Mummy Mountain. Breakfast stop at Panera Bread, McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 6:02

Monday Labor Day Ride, 09/03/18 7:00 a.m., Panera Bread in Gilbert
Meet at Panera Bread at southwest corner of SanTan Village Parkway (Greenfield) and Williams Field Rd. (Chandler Blvd.) Ride start time is 7 am. The ride will take us north into Mesa with some climbing on the long route at Las Sendas. We'll then loop back to Panera Bread for breakfast. The long route will be 45 miles with climbing in Las Sendas. The short route is 33 miles with no climbing. Maps will be provided by the ride leader, Bob Litchfield.

Tid Bits...

Here is a link to the results of the Saturday Cycling Survey.

I've sorted the routes by the number of people who called it a favorite, in descending order. Here are a few more of my observations:

The top 3 favorites also had a cumulative 11 votes to get rid of them
Most of the less-favorite routes got zero votes for elimination
For distance, start time and hilliness, over 75% like it how it is
About 25% would like more variety in the breakfast stops
It looks like we will continue to avoid South Mountain during the summer months (May-Aug), but it was close
A few routes have specific safety concerns
New routes would help keep things interesting
Looking at the general comments, I'm pretty sure President Janet filled out the survey on Aug 12

The next two PMBC social events have been scheduled. The Chili Cookoff will be November 3 at 3pm, and the Holiday Party will be at 5pm on December 8. Detailed information will hit the web site soon.

I was informed that I had been advertising the wrong date for the Amtrak Century. Turns out it is Saturday Sept 15; a week later than I had previously written. Then again, if you haven't already registered, it may be too late.

Events

Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 15
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
PMBC Chili Cookoff – Saturday, Nov 03, 3pm
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
PMBC Holiday Party – Saturday, Dec 8, 5pm
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

August 11 Saturday Cycling Report

Anticipated Tire Troubles

Added August 15, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

We anticipated tire troubles from the road rubble dropped by storms. I know of 4 flats among the 40 cyclists on a long flat route. I don't think any of them could be attributed to the weather debris, but we got the results that we anticipated and that's the important thing.

Coming up...

Saturday, 08/18/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Lucky 7's
The Lucky 7's route loops clockwise to the south, through the Wild Horse Pass casino/resort area and parts of Ahwatukee. The name plays off the mileage options of 27, 37 and 47 miles, plus the 2 casinos along the way. Breakfast is at AZ Bread Co at Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 5:53

Monday Labor Day Ride, 09/03/18
Ride Leader Bob has a plan. Details next week.

Tid Bits...

Survey Data Preview
I'm going to keep the survey open another week. Here's the lingering link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VB3F6KT.

In the next ride report, I will include a link to the on-line report the monkey-app allows me to share with you. Here is some of what I see so far:

Mummy Mountain is still the most favorite
We need to take a hard look at Tour de Sue and South Mountain
The question about start times was amiss. However, helpful comments are tempting me to move the June/July start time to 6am.
It was suggested by one that we should alternate between hills and flats as a rule. I'm thinking it's a good idea. It could mean that the breakfast location is less predictable.

Events

Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 15
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

August 4 Saturday Cycling Report

Third Week in a Row of Climbing Hills in Mid-Summer Heat

Added August 8, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

We had 37 cyclists show up for the third week in a row of climbing hills in mid-summer heat. Now we're looking at 3 weeks of flat routes for the remainder of August; the last one being our quarterly membership meeting.

The Saturday Cycling Survey is quick, easy, and oh-so-much fun. Please share your insights by following this link.

Coming up...

Saturday, 08/11/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Length of Lindsay
The Length of Lindsay takes us to the east, with route options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Panera Bread on the SE corner of Guadalupe and McClintock. Sunrise: 5:48

Tid Bits...

The distribution list I first imported to MailChimp for this report was 587 people large. It made me feel very influential, to have my opinions, ideas and goofy jokes go out to a focused audience of 587 East Valley cyclists. My first dose of humility came when I learned that Global Bikes, in the same region, distributes to well over 10,000 cyclists. Then MailChimp started to show me more information. For example, the convenient little unsubscribe button resulted in a quick drop to 550 recipients. And it tells me that only 33% at best actually open the report; if I procrastinate past Wednesday it drops below 25%. That means on a good week 181 people might actually read it. Still a decent number, but a little humbling. Marketing experts say a 33% open rate is a great number, but then I'm not trying to sell anything.

MailChimp also tells me who opens them, and what links got clicked on, which I never bothered to snoop into. Today though I did happen to notice that 22 people clicked on the survey link from last week. The odd thing is that Survey Monkey says only 14 have answered the questions. I wonder what happened to the other eight? Either way, it's a very small number compared to the 176 who opened the email. I'd really like to see at least 50 surveys completed. I don't think that's expecting too much; there are only 6 questions. Here again is the link, thank you in advance.

Events

Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 15
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

July 28 Saturday Cycling Report

Some Real Summer Heat on St. Francis Loop

Added August 5, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Thirty-five cyclists were blessed with a thick-enough cloud cover at the start of the ride to take the edge off a hot, humid morning. Naturally, it did not last, and since all the hills were in the later part of the long route, many of us got to suffer some real summer heat. As usual, we didn't let a little adversity stop us from having a good time. In my case, after being delayed by a flat tire repair, a little shortcut helped. I learned from the master.

Coming up...

Saturday, 08/04/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Foothills Training Ride
Ride with us on a loop through the Ahwatukee Foothills with options of 25 miles with a couple of gentle climbs, or 38 miles that will take you up 5 bigger hills. If you follow the spaghetti-bowl long-route map, you will have gone up and down all 5 approaches with no repeats and no U-turns. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. on the SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 5:43

Tid Bits...

Some of you may remember back in December of 2012, after my first 1/2 year as Saturday Cycling ride leader, I conducted a survey to get your feedback on how things were going, and to find out which routes were the favorites and which were not. As a result, we made a minor adjustment to our start times, removed one route from the rotation, and revised a few maps to provide a third extra-long distance option. See the January 12, 2013 ride report in the archives for details.

Since then we've also added three new routes and retired two that had to go when the new freeway construction started on Pecos. I think it's time to do another survey. It has the same 5 questions plus one new inquiry regarding South Mountain and more space for helpful comments. Please take a minute or two to let me know what you think.

Be sure to congratulate ride leader Jerry and his wife Rita on their 50th wedding anniversary the next time you see them!

Events

Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 15
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

July 21 Saturday Cycling Report

A Wet and Wild Ride in the Foothills

Added July 25, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Seventeen cyclists signed up for a wet and wild ride in the foothills last weekend. Most of the wet came from the ground up; I don't remember getting rained on much, but the roads were very wet in places. The wild was from some uncomfortably close lighting strikes. Most of us stayed under the patio roof of the regroup location until the sound of thunder became more distant, while a few others retreated to the safety of breakfast before getting that far.

Coming up...

Saturday, 07/28/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. St. Francis Loop
Both the 25-mile and 36-mile options include three moderate hills, taking you north through Papago Park, around the St. Francis Cemetery, and returning to Tempe via south Scottsdale. Breakfast at Panera Bread on McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 5:38

Tid Bits...

The fiscally conservative members of PMBC are likely to appreciate this news. Treasurer Kris has gotten us a 60% savings on the cost of our storage unit. When our previous supplier informed her of a rent increase, she shopped around and found us a climate-controlled version at a lower price. I like it when a free market economy benefits the consumer. The transition was completed this week, so don't go looking for our things in the old location; they've been moved east to Ray Road at Cooper.

Our next quarterly membership meeting is scheduled for Saturday, August 25. Since Janet and I are unavailable that day, Vice President Jim will be running the show. Another different thing this time will be a bicycle parts recycling barrel from WeCycle of Mesa. If you have old bike parts or tools cluttering up your garage, this will be an opportunity to put them to good use. WeCycle will use them to refurbish old bikes to be used by those in need, or to repair bikes for their existing clients. Representatives from WeCycle will be present to provide more information, and to accept larger donations (like bikes), or cash.

Events

Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 8
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

July 14 Saturday Cycling Report

Some Days it Feels Like We Own the Road, and Other Times the Road Owns Us

Added July 20, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

I've had my share of trouble with flat tires, but last Saturday was the first time I got a flat on my van while driving to the park. The 39 cyclists who showed up on time had to compete for space with a surprise running event as they milled about wondering where the ride leader was and why there had been no 2-minute warning. Kathy found me roadside, grabbed the sign-in sheets and maps and got to the park in time to see everyone off.

As it turned out, my inconvenience and resulting expenses were insignificant compared to those of two of our friends whose rides were cut short due to injury. Both got home to start the healing process later that day, about the time I was paying for a pair of new radials. Some days it feels like we own the road, and other times the road owns us.

Coming up...

Saturday, 07/21/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. 8th Street Ail
The extended-distance option includes a few extra loops with little climbs, and one big loop with steep hills, including northbound 8th street from Chandler Blvd to Desert Foothills Parkway. Breakfast is at AZ Bread Co. Sunrise: 5:33

Tid Bits...

Ride leader Scott alerted me to the City of Mesa's 2018 Bike/Ped survey. It will be available until October 15.

I visited http://www.mesaaz.gov/residents/transportation/bike-pedestrian looking for the notification, but it isn't posted there yet. Nevertheless, I was impressed with the informative web site and their e-magazine Mesa Spokelife.

Events

Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 8
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
PMBC Free Ride – Saturday, Dec 1
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

June 30 Saturday Cycling Report

Forty-Seven Cyclists Enjoyed Another Saturday Morning of Dry Heat on Midsummer Ride

Added July 6, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Forty-seven cyclists enjoyed another Saturday morning of dry heat while this year's monsoon season remains at bay. My weather app says that may change by the upcoming weekend, although I expect unpredictability to be the norm for the next two months.

I hope to see some of you Wednesday in downtown Gilbert for a rare midweek holiday ride. Kathy will be leading the ride again next Saturday while Janet and I attend a funeral. Thank you, Kathy.

Coming up...

Wednesday, 07/04/13 6:30 a.m., Downtown Gilbert. Give Me Liberty...
Put on your red, white, and blue for an Independence Day holiday ride! We will start from the downtown Gilbert park & ride next to the big water tower off Gilbert Road just north of Elliot. It's a flat, mostly north-south 25-mile loop through Mesa and Gilbert, with an extra journey west to Dobson for the 35.5-mile extended route. You'll find the map on the miscellaneous routes section of the web site. Breakfast is at Liberty Market near the start location. Sunrise: 5:23

Saturday, 07/07/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Sue
Tour de Sue is a flat loop to the south, with route options of 25 or 35 miles. Both routes include a good long stretch with no traffic lights. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co (SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot). Sunrise: 5:25

Saturday, 07/14/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Marco Polo
The 26-mile standard route goes east on Guadalupe for 12 miles, then loops back on Elliot. The 41-mile long route keeps going east all the way to Ellsworth, then heads a little further south before rejoining the Elliot return path. Breakfast at Panera Bread, McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 5:29

Tid Bits...

Holidays seem to sneak up on us and we end up scrambling to put together a group ride to help fill in the extra day of leisure. Which is silly, because we all have a calendar and the holidays themselves are scheduled way in advance. Our preferred approach is to use the holidays as an opportunity for someone who isn't a regular ride leader, to experience the joy of planning, mapping and leading a club ride (or using an existing route is fine too). The next one is Labor Day on September 3rd. Then November has Veterans Day, Thanksgiving and Black Friday. Please let me know if you would like to step up and make something happen for your friends on any of those days and I will help you get it on the calendar and spread the word. Otherwise, it will probably be Scott, or Kevin or me pulling something from the old bag of routes at the last minute.

Events

Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 8
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

June 23 Saturday Cycling Report

Heat and Tour of Flagstaff Reduces Pack

Added July 1, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Kathy tells me Saturday's ride went well, though the crowd was on the small side possibly due to heat, and probably due to about 30 people being at the Tour of Flagstaff for the weekend. The Flagstaff Tour was a little warmer than usual, but there was no rain this time which is a better deal.

Yes, we will have an Independence Day ride on Wednesday July 4! Sorry for the late notice; it's the main reason I'm squeezing in this last-minute ride report today. We'll be using the Give Me Liberty route which starts and ends near Liberty Market in downtown Gilbert and was created for this very purpose.

Coming up...

Saturday, 06/30/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Midsummer Ride
This route was designed to seek out maximum shade on summer mornings when the sun is farthest north and most brutal. In the winter and spring, it's just another route, much like the others. It includes options of 28 miles with one short climb, or 38 miles with a couple of bonus climbs. Breakfast at Panera Bread at Guadalupe Rd and McClintock Dr. Sunrise: 5:22

Tid Bits...

One of my favorite things about the Flagstaff Tour – besides Chef Bob's big spaghetti dinner, and the total lack of traffic lights – was that I did not encounter any landscapers kicking up a noisy micro dust-storm in my face. Here in the big city, I'd estimate I encounter one such incident per mile on typical weekday rides. I have often said that power lawn and garden tools are the bane of the suburban lifestyle. It's ironic, because without these noisy tools we wouldn't have the clean, well-manicured look that sets the burbs apart. But try to enjoy your backyard barbeque with friends on a Saturday afternoon and you'll likely be serenaded by gasoline powered lawn mowers, leaf blowers, hedge trimers and chain saws. On weekdays you can add air hammers and circular saws, usually cutting tile or brick, to the din. It's rare to get even an hour of daylight with peace and quiet to go with the beautiful visual appeal. Everything comes with a cost I suppose.

The link below for the Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition has been updated to one that works! I've heard good things about this ride from club members who have been there.

Events

Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 8
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

June 16 Saturday Cycling Report

A Ride with a Risk of Rain

Added June 21, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Thirty-six cyclists showed up to risk a ride with a 50% chance of rain. I can say that the last pack on the standard route didn't feel anything more than a brief, refreshing mist. However, the faces and bikes of the long route riders indicated that they at least saw some very wet road, while the last of them rolled into the breakfast stop soaking wet under a steady shower. Nevertheless, I didn't hear any problems or regrets beyond a couple of flat tires. For the last two miles back to the park, I was able to justify the fenders and rain jacket I had carried with me all morning.

Coming up...

Saturday, 06/23/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Chandler/Gilbert Bronze
Gilbert and Chandler are each Bronze level bicycle friendly communities. We'll ride through both communities with route options of 25 or 35 miles. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. at the SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 5:19

Tid Bits...

I trust Ann Chadwick enjoyed her milestone birthday on Sunday. I heard she planned to spend it scuba diving. Now we'll need one more prize to give away at our next meeting when we honor our octogenarian members. All two of them.

At 7am on Sunday June 24, registration opens for the Orange County Wheelmen's popular Amtrak Century scheduled for Saturday September 8. If you want to hook up with other PMBC members on the ride, you should identify your club affiliation when you register, and talk to Jim and Jen to be included in additional activities the next day. The link is listed below; they have been known to sell out quickly once registration starts.

Events

PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24
Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 8
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

June 9 Saturday Cycling Report

Fifty Must be a Lucky Number

Added June 17, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Hello Saturday Cyclists!

Fifty must be a lucky number, because that's how many cyclists signed in for the Lucky 7's route. We got to meet some more new people again this week for an otherwise typical summer ride.

Kathy Mills will be away this Saturday; Janet and I will take on the sweep duties on the standard route. Currently they are predicting a 25% chance of rain that morning. If it is raining, I will still be there with fenders and lights on (no bells) ready to ride with whoever else shows up. Then on the 23rd, I'll be on the Flagstaff Tour, and Kathy will lead Saturday Cycling.

Coming up...

Saturday, 06/16/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Mesa Rewound
Distance options of 32 miles with no climbing, or 44 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Panera Bread at McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 5:18

Tid Bits...

It's always amazed me when a motorist kills a cyclist or pedestrian, and then gets off with a traffic fine of a few hundred dollars for some infraction like "failure to stay in your own lane". And if you believe one opinion I saw published about the Uber autonomous fatality, you can strike and kill a jaywalker and be considered blameless since the jaywalker was violating the law. Same goes, I suppose, for a cyclist going the wrong way or failing to come to a complete stop. But recently heard that this oversight was improved upon by a revision to traffic law 28-672 "Causing serious physical injury or death by a moving violation" which increases the penalties by changing it from a class 3 to a class 1 misdemeanor.

I imagine it would be difficult to prove that a motorist deliberately struck another road user, but I think there should still be some culpability just for hurtling tons of plastic and aluminum down the street with the power of hundreds of horses, which endangers everyone they encounter as well as themselves. Oops happens, but it's a whole bigger deal when it happens behind the wheel. That almost sounds like a slogan.

Events

PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24
Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 8
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

June 2 Saturday Cycling Report

Playing With a Full Deck

Added June 8, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Fifty-two cyclists signed in to ride last weekend; that's like playing with a full deck. Changing the route without enough lead-time to update the website did mess up things for a few people who tried to join us along the route, and now my reason for doing it is no longer relevant, so I'm doubly regretting it. Other than that, it was a lovely day.

Coming up...

Saturday, 06/09/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Lucky 7's
The Lucky 7's route loops clockwise to the south, through the Wild Horse Pass casino/resort area and parts of Ahwatukee. The name plays off the mileage options of 27, 37 and 47 miles, plus the 2 casinos along the way. Breakfast is at AZ Bread Co at Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 5:18

Tid Bits...

It was pointed out to me recently that the AZ Cycling Links section of our website was missing most of our local bike charity organizations. I've asked Terry to add Trips for Kids Phoenix, Rusty Spokes, and We-Cycle-USA under advocacy groups. It's We-Cycle that I want to feature this week.

We-Cycle-USA occupies a small shop on Main St. in Mesa, at the light rail's east end-of-line near Horne. They are a 501c3 charity org in the business of providing bikes, bike maintenance and cycling safety training to adults and children in need. They accomplish this through the generous donation of used bikes, parts, volunteer hours, and cash. I visited the shop this past week and found it packed to the limit with used bikes in various stages of reconditioning. I had been planning to make a rest stop there along the Tour de Mesa Rewound route so that all the Saturday Cyclists could see it for themselves, but the extended light rail construction at the intersection made me abandon the idea.

They specifically need volunteers on Thursday, June 21 when they will be participating in the Valley of the Sun United Way's Project Connect at an LDS church near downtown Mesa. Project Connect is a homeless outreach event that brings over 30 human service providers to one location Project Connect is a homeless outreach event that brings over 30 human service providers to one location. There will be medical, dental, legal, employment, and housing resources. And thanks to We-Cycle, they can bring their bicycles in for a safety inspection and tune-up, or even begin the process of receiving a newly refurbished bike.

We-Cycle will also need volunteers in October for their support of the Tour de Fat in Tempe. All the contact information can be found on their website.

Please keep them in mind when you want to dispose of old bikes and bike parts. You can visit their shop, or arrange for them to come pick things up.

Events

PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24
Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 8
Tour de Fat – Saturday Oct 6, Tempe Town Lake
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
Arizona Bicycle Classic Fall Edition – Saturday, Oct 20
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

May 26 Saturday Cycling Report

Fun Ride with Fine Weather and Great Friends

Added June 3, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Forty-six cyclists kicked off the Memorial Holiday weekend with a memorial moment to honor the cycling companions who have preceded us in death. Then we went straight out and enjoyed a fun ride with fine weather and great friends, just like the dearly departed would have done, if they were still with us.

Thirty-six joined ride leader Scott on the Monday holiday. He also led a moment of remembrance at the start, for those who died in the defense of our country, and specifically our friend the veteran George Martinez.

I've switched this week's route to be McKellips Loop so that I could delay using Tour de Mesa until later in the month; probably the 16th, but I'm not sure yet.

Coming up...

Saturday, 06/02/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. McKellips Loop
With distance options of 28, 37 or 45 miles, this route will take you north through Tempe and then east through Mesa on McKellips Road, returning to Panera Bread for breakfast. Sunrise: 5:19

Tid Bits...

Most of the fast-pack probably remembers club member Stuart Anderson. Last August he emailed to alert me about a road closure on our Saturday route, and to thank me for playing the ride leader role. In November he was fatally injured while cycling. This week, on Memorial Day, his family held a celebration of Stuart's life via Zoom, and they posted this 10 minute photo montage on YouTube for us to see: https://youtu.be/_uliHtwmBrg.

I didn't know Stuart well myself, but the images of his life story sure have a familiar feel.

Events

PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24
Amtrak Century – Saturday, Sep 8
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7
El Tour de Tucson – Saturday, Nov 17
Casa Grande Century – Sunday, Jan 13

Have fun and ride safely.

May 19 Saturday Cycling Report

Capacity Crowd for Breakfast Meeting

Added May 25, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Forty-eight rode from Kiwanis Park to be part of the capacity crowd at the quarterly membership meeting and free breakfast. The Hungry Monk continues to endear themselves to us, this time by adding a variety of breakfast meats, and a large fresh fruit plate. Plans are in the works for one or more July Tour de France viewing parties at the same location.

Coming up...

Saturday, 05/26/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Foothills Training Ride
Ride with us on a loop through the Ahwatukee Foothills with options of 25 miles with a couple of gentle climbs, or 38 miles that will take you up 5 bigger hills. If you follow the spaghetti-bowl long-route map, you will have gone up and down all 5 approaches with no repeats and no U-turns. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. on the SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 5:22

Monday, 05/28/18 6:30 a.m., Joes Farm Grill. Memorial Day Ride
This holiday ride starts and ends at Joe's Farm Grill, 3000 E. Ray Rd., Gilbert. It will take us east from there for a 30-mile figure eight that circles the Phoenix Mesa Gateway Airport. Here is a link to the (tentative) map. Sunrise: 5:21

Saturday, 06/02/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Mesa Rewound
Distance options of 32 miles with no climbing, or 44 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Panera Bread at McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 5:19

Tid Bits...

Those of you who ride the long route on either of our Ahwatukee Foothills rides will have noticed that the pavement has been rapidly deteriorating out there, especially on Chandler Blvd. Besides the continuous series of cracks and rough patches, there is one spot in the bike lane that has buckled up into a dangerous little speedbump. They did a redo on the Frye hill roadway, but it was the low budget type. Now it has the color of new asphalt, but still plenty of rough spots. We're going back there this week; please exercise caution.

President Janet ran on efficient meeting last Saturday. The big news was the addition of Kevin Craig to the board. He'll be responsible for EventBrite setup and will be helping out with website management. We had a fresh batch of club bike-garb, including never before seen items like logoed gloves and blue socks. The list of upcoming event rides and social activities are a good indication that our club is still going strong.

Events

PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7

Have fun and ride safely.

May 12 Saturday Cycling Report

Big Crowd for Popular Mummy Mountain Route

Added May 20, 2018

written by Ken St. John

It looks like the Mummy Mountain route is still popular. We had a big crowd of sixty-four on Saturday and at least 4 of them were newcomers.

Yes, we will have a Memorial Day ride on Monday, May 28. Scott, the Sunday Kickoff ride leader, mapped a route for us around the Gateway Airport with Breakfast at Joe's Farm Grill. See details below.

Coming up...

Saturday, 05/19/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Chandler-Pecos East
We're returning to the Hungry Monk for our Quarterly Membership Meeting, and a small change to this route will get us there. Breakfast is free for members; two free breakfasts are included in a family membership. Sign-in begins at 8:00 and the meeting starts at 8:45. The extra-long route sails east on Chandler Blvd all the way from Rural to Power, returning by way of Pecos. Distance options are 28, 34 and 42 miles; the shorter routes simply head over to Pecos a little earlier. Breakfast is at The Hungry Monk on the north side of Chandler Blvd, just east of Dobson. Sunrise: 5:25

Tid Bits...

If you were at the start of the last ride, you may have heard me out myself as having turned sixty the day before. I decided that if 50 is the new 40, then 60 is the new midlife, so I had to buy a new bike. Even though I don't race and probably never will, I still bought a full-on, midlife crisis racing machine. It is an especially aerodynamic model, to the point where I would have to lose ten pounds and shave all the hair off my legs and arms to live up to its expectations of me. I know it won't turn back the clock, but if it makes me look faster, at least I'll feel like I'm reverse-aging. A little.

If you preordered club clothing, be sure to pick it up at the meeting this Saturday. We have sunk a bunch of our treasury into inventory and there are some new items; please check it out here: PMBC Clothing, Use the email link provided to let Bob know if there are items you want to purchase that were not preordered.

Last week I reported the wrong date for El Tour de Scottsdale; Sunday, October 7 is the correct date.

Events

PMBC Quarterly Membership Meeting – Saturday, May 19
PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 7

Have fun and ride safely.

May 5 Saturday Cycling Report

44 Cyclists Swarm over the Ahwatukee Foothills

Added May 11, 2018

written by Ken St. John

On the 5th of May, as we call it en inglés, we had 44 cyclists swarming over the Ahwatukee Foothills. Most of the winter residents and vacationing northerners escaped before this heat wave struck over the weekend. People sometimes seem surprised that we ride all through the summer. Yet, we're still getting newcomers who are ready to get started now, and our average number of participants last May-Aug was almost identical to our Nov-Feb number.

Coming up...

Saturday, 05/12/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain
A 40-mile loop with lots of climbing, or 31 miles with a couple of moderate climbs, takes us north into Scottsdale and around Mummy Mountain. Breakfast stop at Panera Bread, McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 5:30

Tid Bits...

The annual Ride of Silence is Wednesday, May 16. There are 6 memorial rides scheduled for that day across Arizona, but only one is in the valley. It's at Tempe Beach Park at 6:30 pm.

The Town of Gilbert is updating their Bike Plan and would like us to fill out a survey. Gilbert Bike Plan. I just did it and I think it's a good one, and it only took a few minutes.

Apache Junction is working their Active Transportation Plan, and also have a survey http://www.ajcity.net/active. It says that the survey closed on April 30, but I just tested it and they seem to be still accepting input. You can also provide input through an interactive map. I am too late, however, to tell you about the bike ride they organized for last weekend; sorry about that.

The Cabin's at Mormon Lake are filling up for the weekend of our Flagstaff Tour; you should book yours soon! www.mormonlakelodge.com

Events

Highly Falkner Memorial Time Trial – Saturday, May 12
PMBC Quarterly Membership Meeting – Saturday, May 19
PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 2

Have fun and ride safely.

April 28 Saturday Cycling Report

Still Felt Like Springtime on Length of Lindsay

Added May 6, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Thirty-nine cyclists rode the Length of Lindsay route last week. It still felt like springtime, which it still is. This Saturday's forecast high is triple digit, although it should be only hitting the 90's by the time we stop for breakfast.

The next Quarterly Membership Meeting is coming up on May 19.

Start time is 6:30 now through August.

Coming up...

Saturday, 05/05/18 6:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. 8th Street Ail
The extended-distance option includes a few extra loops with little climbs, and one big loop with steep hills, including northbound 8th street from Chandler Blvd to Desert Foothills Parkway. Breakfast is at AZ Bread Co. Sunrise: 5:36

Tid Bits...

It's been years since I experienced bike travel on the J&P Tour, and I'd never done a solo trip, so last week I decided to load up the paniers and pedal my way to Prescott to visit the grand kids. I had plenty of time along the way to think of trivial observations to include in a ride report, but I'll pare it down to just one. If you like event rides on open highways over mountainous terrain, I recommend the Skull Valley Loop Challenge in September. I rode half of the loop on my way into Prescott Tuesday, and the other segment on my way home on Wednesday and those were some very smooth roads. Some parts even had smooth, clean, wide shoulders. I don't think you can say that about many of Arizona's highways. I wonder how long it will last?

The PMBC Tour of Flagstaff registration is now live!

The Tour de Scottsdale is now accepting early-bird registration

There is still time to register for the Highly Falkner Memorial Time Trial up South Mountain. Race day is Saturday, May 12.

Events

Highly Falkner Memorial Time Trial – Saturday, May 12
PMBC Quarterly Membership Meeting – Saturday, May 19
PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24
Tour de Scottsdale – Sunday, Oct 2

Have fun and ride safely.

April 21 Saturday Cycling Report

Forty-Five Cyclists Enjoy Tour de Sue

Added April 22, 2018

written by Ken St. John

We had forty-five cyclists enjoy Tour de Sue. Not Sue however; she headed north to cheer for our friends who took on Pat's Run that same morning. The timing worked out so that afterward they could join us at AZ Bread, looking even sweatier than we did.

Coming up...

Saturday, 04/28/18 7:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Length of Lindsay
The Length of Lindsay takes us to the east, with route options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Panera Bread on the SE corner of Guadalupe and McClintock. Sunrise: 5:43

Tid Bits...

I think the Soul Stroll for Healthy Living is going to be an annual event at Kiwanis Park. They surprised us this week by parking a Mobile Mammogram truck in our usual gathering spot. After an internal debate about where to relocate, it occurred to me that I should establish a policy, so here it is: If another event blocks us from using our usual spot, I'll park in the very back of the lot. That should give us more space to gather, keep us out of the cross traffic, and free up the close-in parking for the other guys. If the whole parking lot is full, I'll head south to the lot across from the aquatic center. Next April, if you want to have your mammaries grammed, they said we are always welcome.

Events

ABC Desert Classic Century 2018 – Saturday April 28
Phoenix Bicycle Forum – Saturday April 28
PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24

Have fun and ride safely.

April 14 Saturday Cycling Report

Two Recumbents and Three Tandem Teams show for St. Francis Loop

Added April 22, 2018

written by Ken St. John

I don't recall the last time we saw two recumbents at the sign in, but there they were alongside 44 uprights with three tandem teams. We like to be inclusive where we can.

Coming up...

Saturday, 04/21/18 7:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Sue
Tour de Sue is a flat loop to the south, with route options of 25 or 35 miles. Both routes include a good long stretch with no traffic lights. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co (SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot). Sunrise: 5:51

Tid Bits...

Two items of interest hit my inbox today. One is that the city of Phoenix is accepting free registration to the Phoenix Bicycle Forum from 10-4 on Saturday April 28. It appears to be a community effort to make the city more bicycle friendly.

The other I got from ride-leader Scott who shared that Gilbert is building a pedestrian bridgeover the railroad tracks on the Western Canal Trail. They say it is to provide a safe crossing for those biking, walking or riding on the trail. It's in the design phase now and should be done by the end of 2019.

Events

GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22
www.arizonabicycleclassic.com – Saturday, April 21
ABC Desert Classic Century 2018 – Saturday April 28
Phoenix Bicycle Forum – Saturday April 28
PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24

Have fun and ride safely.

April 7 Saturday Cycling Report

A Busy Weekend for Cyclists

Added April 15, 2018

written by Ken St. John

That was a busy weekend for cyclists with El Tour de Mesa and associated activities, the Bike Month family rides in Chandler and Tempe, and the fun, fun PMBC Patio Party. They all looked well attended, and we had forty-four who rode with us from Kiwanis, as usual.

Coming up...

Saturday, 04/14/18 7:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. St. Francis Loop
Both the 25-mile and 36-mile options include three moderate hills, taking you north through Papago Park, around the St. Francis Cemetery, and returning to Tempe via south Scottsdale. Breakfast at Panera Bread on McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 5:59

Tid Bits...

I and at least 3 other club members spent our Friday last week at CAzB's Arizona Bicycling Summit. Two of the top topics this year were distracted driving, and equal cycling access for women, youth, and the economically disadvantaged. We also got updates on e-bike policy from ASU, Tempe, and Scottsdale who are aiming to keep their rules consistent. And we had fun with data from the founder of BikeMaps.org who urges us to go to their web site and report any bike accidents or close calls that could have been an accident. The more data they have, the more good they can do.

Events

GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22
www.arizonabicycleclassic.com – Saturday, April 21
ABC Desert Classic Century 2018 – Saturday April 28
PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24

Have fun and ride safely.

March 31 Saturday Cycling Report

Thirty-Seven Cyclists Ride to South Mountain

Added April 8, 2018

written by Ken St. John

I hear that the Performance Bike poker ride for puppies was a big hit. I was relieved we still had thirty-seven cyclists climb up some or all of South Mountain, followed by the sprint for safety down eastbound Baseline.

Did you notice all the rain we got this past winter? No, neither did the wildflowers. The ocotillo tips were ablaze; at least the cacti will still come through with some spring colors.

==========APRIL START TIME IS 7AM ============

Coming up...

Saturday, 04/07/18 7:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Chandler/Gilbert Bronze
Gilbert and Chandler are each Bronze level bicycle friendly communities. We'll ride through both communities with route options of 25 or 35 miles. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. at the SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 6:08

Tid Bits...

Don't forget about the PMBC Spring Patio Party, 4:00 Saturday at Macayo's Depot Cantina in Tempe.

A reminder to the volunteer corps: the Chandler Family Fun ride is this Saturday. I'll be starting from Kiwanis as usual, but splitting off route after the standard route regroup, just in time for the 8:00 ride start near Tumbleweed Park. Please let me know if you'll be working it with me.

PMBC members can get a $10 discount (the code word is METRO) on the April 21st Arizona Bicycle Classic. It looks like a fun ride with route options of 28, 56 and 78 miles, all starting in the tiny town of Mud Spring up on the RIM. Here's the link: http://www.arizonabicycleclassic.com/

Events

AZ Bicycling Summit – Friday April 6
El Tour de Mesa - Saturday April 7
PMBC Spring Patio Party - Saturday April 7
Chandler Family Bike Ride – Saturday April 7
Tour de Tempe – Sunday April 8 Tempe Bike Month
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22
www.arizonabicycleclassic.com – Saturday, April 21
ABC Desert Classic Century 2018 – Saturday April 28
PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24

Have fun and ride safely.

March 24 Saturday Cycling Report

Through the Arts and Crafts show in Tempe

Added March 31, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Even with several of our friends doing the Bike MS event, we had forty-six cyclists at Kiwanis Park. Our route took us right through the biannual Arts and Crafts show in downtown Tempe. It was easy enough to ride around, but at least one couple took my suggestion to dismount and walk straight through the festival. They were constrained from impulse spending by their lack of cargo capacity and it did make them the last ones to reach breakfast, but I think they enjoyed the non-detour distraction.

Coming up...

Saturday, 03/31/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. South Mountain
Route options of 24 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 38 miles with moderate climbing, or 39 miles with the longest steady climb within 20 miles of Kiwanis Park. Breakfast is at AZ Bread, southeast of Elliot & Kyrene. Sunrise: 6:17

Tid Bits...

Here is a link to Tempe Bike Month activities, including the April 8 Tour de Tempe, and Bike to Work day on April 18.

I've added ABC's April 28 Desert Classic event to the list below. Your PMBC membership saves you $5 on the entry fee, plus another $15 savings if you register by April 15.

If all went as planned, this was my first ride report sent using MailChimp. I'm interested to see if I get around more spam filters this way; there was a dozen or so email addresses @cox.net that started to bounce back all at once, and another dozen that are more random. So, if you're suddenly seeing this report after a long absence, that's why.

Events

Pedaling for Pups, Charity Poker Ride – March 31
AZ Bicycling Summit – Friday April 6
El Tour de Mesa - Saturday April 7
PMBC Spring Patio Party - Saturday April 7
Chandler Family Bike Ride – Saturday April 7
Tour de Tempe – Sunday April 8 Tempe Bike Month
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22
ABC Desert Classic Century 2018 – Saturday April 28
PMBC Tour of Flagstaff – Fri-Sun, June 22-24

Have fun and ride safely.

March 17 Saturday Cycling Report

32 Show for Lucky 7's as Mining Country Challenge draws 50

Added March 25, 2018

written by Ken St. John

I hear there were right around 50 people who participated in the Mining Country Challenge, which is good news for all the volunteers who worked hard to put on the event. Yet we still managed to rustle up 32 more at Kiwanis for the regular Saturday Cycling ride. It was a great day to be out on the bike.

Coming up...

Saturday, 03/24/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Midsummer Ride
This route was designed to seek out maximum shade on summer mornings when the sun is farthest north and most brutal. In the winter and spring, it's just another route, much like the others. It includes options of 28 miles with one short climb, or 38 miles with a couple of bonus climbs. Breakfast at Panera Bread at Guadalupe Rd and McClintock Dr. Sunrise: 6:27

Tid Bits...

Whether you ride with us, the Chandler Family Fun Ride, or El Tour de Mesa on Saturday, April 7th, you'll be able to refresh yourself at the PMBC Spring Patio Party that same day. It will start at 4:00pm on the patio of Macayo's Depot Cantina (300 S. Ash Ave, Tempe). The club will provide appetizers, but you'll have to cover your own bar tab.

If you were listening closely at the last membership meeting, you will have already heard about Performance Bike's Pedaling for Pups Charity Poker Ride on March 31. The meetup link is below.

More information was released about the April 6 AZ Bicycling Summit. Topics will include: Distracted Driving, Bicycling and Public Health, E-Bikes, BikeMaps.org, and many more. See the event list below for more info.

I can be a very effective procrastinator. Next week, I plan to check an item off my todo list that has been there since 2012. I intend to begin shipping these weekly ride reports using MailChimp. This should save me minutes of effort every week and make it easier for cyclists to get themselves on or off the distribution list with a simple mouse click.

Events

Bike MS – March 24-25
Pedaling for Pups, Charity Poker Ride – March 31
AZ Bicycling Summit – Friday April 6
El Tour de Mesa - Saturday April 7
PMBC Spring Patio Party - Saturday April 7
Chandler Family Bike Ride – Saturday April 7
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

March 10 Saturday Cycling Report

Marco Polo: A Popular Flatland Route

Added March 16, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Marco Polo appears to be one of our more popular flatland routes with fifty-five cyclists participating this past week. It always helps to have perfect pre-spring weather too. Having a canal path slice through the middle of the map, there were plenty of opportunities for creative modifications with various in-between mileage options.

Coming up...

Saturday, 03/17/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Lucky 7's
The Lucky 7's route loops clockwise to the south, through the Wild Horse Pass casino/resort area and parts of Ahwatukee. The name plays off the mileage options of 27, 37 and 47 miles, plus the 2 casinos along the way. Breakfast is at AZ Bread Co at Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 6:36

Tid Bits...

The long-range weather forecast has had us a little worried about our ride plans for this Saturday. But as of this morning, there is now 0% change of rain (in Phoenix at least) that day, so it's looking good for both Mining Country and Saturday Cycling. The MCC still needs volunteers, especially a SAG driver for the long route and registration duties. You should be able to help with registration and still do the ride, if you don't mind being among the last to roll out.

The annual Chandler Family Bike Ride event will be on April 7th at 8am. As always, PMBC has been asked to put some serious cyclists in the mix as role models and safety monitors. This is another chance for anyone who enjoys working with children to support cycling in our community. Those who would like to volunteer can ride with Janet and I from Kiwanis park, straight to the park-and-ride at Germann and Hamilton by Tumbleweed Park. They request that you register for this free event.

Events

Mining Country Challenge – Saturday, March 17

Volunteers register here

GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
Bike MS – March 24-25
El Tour de Mesa - Saturday April 7
Chandler Family Bike Ride – Saturday April 7
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

March 3 Saturday Cycling Report

Getting Tossed Between Groups

Added March 9, 2018

written by Ken St. John

We had 46 cyclists start from Kiwanis Park last Saturday. Almost double that number attended the quarterly membership meeting, including the pack who rode over from Sun Lakes. I especially enjoyed the ride because I somehow got tossed between at least five different small groups and had enough time at each to get lots of friendly interaction. On the middle-length route, we got to see the fast pack go zipping down Pecos as we approached from the north, with a string of recovery-pace riders strewn behind. That was fun too.

Coming up...

Saturday, 03/10/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Marco Polo
The 26-mile standard route goes east on Guadalupe for 12 miles, then loops back on Elliot. The 41-mile long route keeps going east all the way to Ellsworth, then heads a little further south before rejoining the Elliot return path. Breakfast at Panera Bread, McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 6:45

Saturday, 03/24/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. MidSummer Ride
This route was designed to seek out maximum shade on summer mornings when the sun is farthest north and most brutal. In the winter, it's just another route, much like the others. It includes options of 28 miles with one short climb, or 38 miles with a couple of bonus climbs. Breakfast at Panera Bread at Guadalupe Rd and McClintock Dr. Sunrise: 6:27

Tid Bits...

The business part of our membership meeting was pretty routine. The call for volunteers this time was for Mining Country Challenge (link below), and two more appointed board members. Per the bylaws, appointed members of the board should have some specific responsibility. The top two needs currently are for someone tech savvy to put events on EventBrite, help out with the web site and stuff-like-that, and for someone who can make publicity happen. A few members responded on the spot with their willingness to help, but don't worry If you missed the meeting; there's still time to contact a board member or use the link below to let us know how you want to help.

Does anyone want to take a turn leading Saturday Cycling on March 17 so that I can go be challenged in mining country? Please.

Through March 31 you can get the PMBC group rate of $120 for Tour de Mesa through this link: http://bit.ly/2HO8Lsj

Events

Quarterly Membership Meeting – Saturday, March 3
Mining Country Challenge – Saturday, March 17

Volunteers register here

GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
Bike MS – March 24-25
El Tour de Mesa - Saturday April 7
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

February 24 Saturday Cycling Report

Winter Chill in Ahwatukee Foothills

Added March 2, 2018

written by Ken St. John

The winter chill may be what kept 1/4 of us away on February's last Saturday. Counting the three who were too late to sign in, we had 30 cyclists take on the Ahwatukee foothills. The start time moves back another 1/2 hour in March, since summertime is right around the corner.

Coming up...

Saturday, 03/03/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Chandler-Pecos East
We're returning to the Hungry Monk for our Quarterly Membership Meeting, and a small change to this route will get us there. Breakfast is free for members; two free breakfasts are included in a family membership. Sign-in begins at 9:00 and the meeting starts at 9:45. The extra-long route sails east on Chandler Blvd all the way from Rural to Power, returning by way of Pecos. Distance options are 28, 34 and 42 miles; the shorter routes simply head over to Pecos a little earlier. Breakfast is at The Hungry Monk on the north side of Chandler Blvd, just east of Dobson. Sunrise: 6:54

Saturday, 03/10/18 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Marco Polo
The 26-mile standard route goes east on Guadalupe for 12 miles, then loops back on Elliot. The 41-mile long route keeps going east all the way to Ellsworth, then heads a little further south before rejoining the Elliot return path. Breakfast at Panera Bread, McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 6:45

Saturday, 03/17/17 7:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Lucky 7's
The Lucky 7's route loops clockwise to the south, through the Wild Horse Pass casino/resort area and parts of Ahwatukee. The name plays off the mileage options of 27, 37 and 47 miles, plus the 2 casinos along the way. Breakfast is at AZ Bread Co at Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 6:36

Tid Bits...

Here's two cycling habits I've adopted in recent years (just stop me if I've already said this):

We're usually very good about using the STOP hand-signal when riding in a group of cyclists. It's also a good idea when riding solo. Many motorists expect us to run stop signs and red lights, and often prefer to cede their right-of-way rather than risk collision. I prefer that we all follow the rules for smooth flowing traffic. Signaling with my left hand that I actually am going to stop makes it less ambiguous for the other guy.
While making a left turn with a green left-turn arrow, I've experienced times when an oncoming vehicle in the right-turn lane thinks they have room to go too and rolls out right into my path. Now I make a point to point out my trajectory and make it obvious that I'm going to cross their path. I've been consistently able to get them to yield with this approach, when their instinct was to turn at the same time as me, since I'm so small and all.

The Mining Country Challenge needs volunteers!

Events

Quarterly Membership Meeting – Saturday, March 3
Mining Country Challenge – Saturday, March 17

Volunteers register here

GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
Bike MS – March 24-25
El Tour de Mesa - Saturday April 7
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

February 17 Saturday Cycling Report

Always a Headwind on Eastbound McKellips

Added February 25, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Fifty-one cyclists were at the start to hear the announcement that Jeff and Christine were to be married the very next day. Most reacted with the same puzzled look as mine, that said "I thought they already were". I assume they went through with it and hope to see their smiles often.

No matter how still the air appears at the start, there's always a headwind on eastbound McKellips. It's what keeps this flat route from being too easy.

Coming up...

Saturday, 02/24/18 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Foothills Training Ride
Ride with us on a loop through the Ahwatukee Foothills with options of 25 miles with a couple of gentle climbs, or 38 miles that will take you up 5 bigger hills. If you follow the spaghetti-bowl long-route map, you will have gone up and down all 5 approaches with no repeats and no U-turns. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. on the SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 7:02

Tid Bits...

I am conceding defeat on the Transportation Day scheme. The board meeting conflict left us with no volunteers, and the organizers told me there is no room for a ride-through. We'll just ride cautiously past it as usual. Maybe next year.

The Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists is hosting another Bike Summit on Friday, April 6th as part of the weekend-long El Tour de Mesa festivities. I've paid my $25 and expect to see a couple of other club members there again too. Follow this link to see the list of topics to be covered and to register if you like.

Events

Quarterly Membership Meeting – Saturday, March 3
Mining Country Challenge – Saturday, March 17

Volunteers register here

GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
Bike MS – March 24-25
El Tour de Mesa - Saturday April 7
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

February 10 Saturday Cycling Report

Tour de Mesa Rewound: A Routine Warm Winter Ride

Added February 18, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Thirty-eight is the number of cyclists who signed in last Saturday. I did not have any special announcements at the start of the ride, and still have nothing of interest to say about it now. It was a routine warm winter ride.

You'll notice below that there is a quarterly membership meeting coming up on March 3, the same day that our start time moves to 7:30am. The meeting sign-in will begin at 9:00 and the meeting will start at 9:45am when the long route riders are expected to roll in.

Coming up...

Saturday, 02/17/18 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. McKellips Loop
With distance options of 28, 37 or 45 miles, this route will take you north through Tempe and then east through Mesa on McKellips Road, returning to Panera Bread for breakfast. Sunrise: 7:10

Tid Bits...

We still need one more volunteer to work our table at the Transportation Day event on the 24th of this month. Here's an option that would work well: you could still ride the long route of the Foothills Training Ride, then along the return on Liberty, stop at the event and take over the 2nd half for Rick so he can go to the board meeting. The meeting is timed to allow board members to ride the long route, so that should work out well. If I can't get another volunteer, I'll probably need to cancel PMBC's presence at the event, and they will once again fail to teach the children that the bicycle is a viable option. Any member on any bike would be fine; you just need to enjoy working with children and want to promote cycling.

Sounds like the city of Tempe has come up with a creative compromise regarding the McClintock Dr. bike lanes that had reduced the main traffic lanes from 3 to 2 in each direction. This week they will start restriping between Del Rio and Oxford to accommodate ordinary bike lanes in each direction; the current design is buffered from the traffic lane. This enables them to restore the southbound side to three traffic lanes, leaving the north bound traffic with just two lanes. I guess the motorists who complained are more concerned with congestion in one direction over the other. The work should be completed by February 24 and does not require busting up any curbs, sidewalks, or landscaping. The city of Chandler has plans to install bike lanes on their portion of McClintock to the south, but that improvement is still a couple of years away.

Events

GABA Tucson Mission Road Ramble – Sunday, February 18
Quarterly Membership Meeting – Saturday, March 3
Mining Country Challenge – Saturday, March 17

Volunteers register here

GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
Bike MS – March 24-25
El Tour de Mesa - Saturday April 7
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

February 3 Saturday Cycling Report

Mild Weather for South Mountain

Added February 11, 2018

written by Ken St. John

We had forty-two cyclists take on South Mountain for the third time since the mild weather arrived. Speaking of our great weather, halfway into winter, we're still getting a steady flow of new and returning cyclists. Let's all help them feel welcome and show them a fun time.

In the Event list below, you'll notice that two local bike shops are determined to show cyclists a good time this weekend. With us or with them, I hope everyone stays safe and has fun.

Coming up...

Saturday, 02/10/18 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Mesa Rewound
Distance options of 32 miles with no climbing, or 44 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Panera Bread at McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 7:17

Tid Bits...

I've moved the next Ahwatukee Foothills ride out to the 24th to sync us up with the Transportation Day event at God's Garden Preschool. You may have noticed in years past when Liberty Lane has been converted to Liberty parking-lot. This year we've decided PMBC should have a presence at their event to show the children, mommies, and daddies that the bicycle is for transportation too. We'll have a small space at the event for two or three cyclists to show off their bikes and answer questions. Rick has volunteered to be there with his loaded touring bike to represent travel by bicycle, but he has to leave the event early for our board meeting. The plan was to have the second volunteer bring a commuter bike, but I have yet to find an experienced bike commuter who is available. We need at least one more volunteer! It's from 9am-1pm, Saturday February 24. You can bring any kind of bike you want; the important thing is to have someone who isn't on the board and can stay until 1:00, and enjoys talking to children.

The 2nd part of our participation is to have the short-route riders do a brief stopover at the event, which is about a mile after the regroup. For this I'd like to encourage you to ride your tandems and recumbents – the kinds of bikes that make children stop and stare. Everyone on the long route should plan to ride on by as normal, being especially mindful of car doors and escaped toddlers.

The MCC volunteer registration site is up.

The Ahwatukee Global Bikes shop is presenting a Valentine's Poker Ride on Sunday, February 11 at 7:30am. Your $20 entry fee gets you a burrito, a chance to win valuable prizes and a happy fun time. Proceeds benefit Trips for Kids Phoenix. Sign up here.

El Tour de Mesa has been added to the event list below too. Best rates are available now; participation is capped at 2,000.

Events

Performance Bicycle Ride and Festival – Saturday, February 10
Valentine's Poker Ride – Global Bikes, Ahwatukee Sunday, February 11
GABA Tucson Mission Road Ramble – Sunday, February 18
Quarterly Membership Meeting – Saturday, March 3
Mining Country Challenge – Saturday, March 17

Volunteers register here

GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
Bike MS – March 24-25
El Tour de Mesa - Saturday April 7
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

January 27 Saturday Cycling Report

Deep Into the Ahwatukee Foothills

Added January 31, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Forty-eight cyclists rode deep into the Ahwatukee Foothills on Saturday. When the 8th St Ail route was created early last year, the extension of Chandler Blvd west didn't exist. With it's smooth new blacktop and challenging climb, adding it now was a welcome revision. Removing three side loops simplified the route and made the map a lot easier to read. I think rev 2 is a keeper.

As far as I know, everyone returned safely, but I'm sorry to say that one handlebar-mounted smart phone decided life wasn't worth living and leapt to its doom on a high-speed downhill stretch. Sad.

Remember: the February start time is 8:00 a.m.

Coming up...

Saturday, 02/03/18 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. South Mountain
Route options of 24 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 38 miles with moderate climbing, or 39 miles with the longest steady climb within 20 miles of Kiwanis Park. Breakfast is at AZ Bread, southeast of Elliot & Kyrene. Sunrise: 7:23

Saturday, 02/17/18 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Foothills Training Ride
Ride with us on a loop through the Ahwatukee Foothills with options of 25 miles with a couple of gentle climbs, or 38 miles that will take you up 5 bigger hills. If you follow the spaghetti-bowl long-route map, you will have gone up and down all 5 approaches with no repeats and no U-turns. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. on the SE corner of Kyrene and Elliot. Sunrise: 7:10

Tid Bits...

The Mining Country Challenge registration is live! I'm sure a volunteer sign-up link will be available soon too.

On Saturday, February 10, Performance Bicycle in Chandler will be hosting a no-fee ride they are recommending as part of a Bike MS training plan. Sign-in is at 6:15 am. From 10:30-1:00 the same location will be the scene of a Bike Festival. Even PMBC will have a booth there, partly to encourage more sign-ups for our Mining Country Challenge. You can get details and signup for the Performance ride here.

The Adventure Cycling Association invites us to a get together at the REI in Paradise Valley to talk about bike travel, cycling, and some new routes. It's on Monday, Feb 26 from 6 to 8 pm. Please RSVP to Beth Petersen by Feb 22 or call (406) 532-2751 so they can bring enough snacks! More details here.

Events

Performance Bicycle Ride and Festival – Saturday, February 10
GABA Tucson Mission Road Ramble – Sunday, February 18
Mining Country Challenge – Saturday, March 17
GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
Bike MS – March 24-25
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

January 20 Saturday Cycling Report

Light, Misty Rain for Mummy Mountain

Added January 27, 2018

written by Ken St. John

Forty-four cyclists took on the Mummy Mountain route last Saturday. After the regroup we were treated to some of those light, misty rain drops that we pray for in the summer. Not enough to make us cold or slicken the streets, but enough to keep it interesting.

Coming up...

Saturday, 01/27/18 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. 8th Street Ail
This route has been modified; map on the web site may be out of date. The extended-distance option climbs northbound on 8th street from Chandler Blvd to Desert Foothills Parkway on the way to making a big hilly loop to the west with an optional 7-mile out-and-back adventure for more climbing. Breakfast is at AZ Bread Co. Sunrise: 7:28

Saturday, 02/10/17 8:00 a.m., Kiwanis Park. Tour de Mesa Rewound
Distance options of 32 miles with no climbing, or 44 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Panera Bread at McClintock and Guadalupe. Sunrise: 7:17

Tid Bits...

It's occurred to me after a few missed turns and near collisions, that it is better for group-ride routes to make turns at controlled intersections, rather than onto minor streets that tend to sneak up on you. This is one of the reasons I don't often use the Research to Oak route anymore, and the main reason I've decided to modify the 8th Street Ail map for this Saturday's ride. I've removed all the confusing side loops, retaining only the Kachina hill that we've long been familiar with. This loss of bonus hills has been compensated for by including an out-and-back trip to the new western limit of Chandler Blvd. It ends with a nice little climb and is basically uphill both ways. I'll bring extra maps, since the web site version may not be updated before the weekend.

Save the date of Saturday, March 17 for the Mining Country Challenge. I hear the full century route will be back on this year!

Events

GABA Tucson Mission Road Ramble – Sunday, February 18
Mining Country Challenge – Saturday, March 17
GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

January 13 Saturday Cycling Report

Three-Day Cycling Weekend

Added January 20, 2018

written by Ken St. John

We started out the three-day weekend with a light crowd of 38 cyclists for Saturday's Tour de Sue. Some may have been resting up for the big Sunday event, and many were busy preparing to support it.

PMBC hosted over 300 cyclists for the Casa Grande Century on Sunday. It was an exceptionally beautiful day with very little wind. It's the weather control that really impresses me about these awesome event organizers. As far as I could tell from the metric century route, everything else went well too.

Seven cyclists rounded out their three-day weekend on the MLK day ride. Here's Bob's report:

"The ride started a little cool and cloudy, but the sun finally peeked through and it turned out to be a beautiful ride day. We kept a leisurely pace of 15 to 20 mph and enjoyed several miles on a dedicated paved bike path. We finished the 35 miles with no incidents and enjoyed a great breakfast in the late morning sun at Panera Bread."

Coming up...

Saturday, 01/27/18 8:30 a.m., Kiwanis Park. 8th Street Ail
The extended-distance option includes a few extra loops with little climbs, and one big loop with steep hills, including northbound 8th street from Chandler Blvd to Desert Foothills Parkway. Breakfast is at AZ Bread Co. Sunrise: 7:28

Tid Bits...

The Maricopa Association of Governments is beginning an Active Transportation Plan and are seeking input. You'll find a survey and an opportunity to submit comments on the interactive map at this site: http://azmag.gov/active. I took the survey; it's different. It's quick and I encourage you to take it, assuming you don't mind being in touch with your feelings.

This ride report is very late in the week. I blame an artsy-craftsy project I've been working on for 1.25 years that's finally almost finished, and has been consuming my attention lately. Everything will be normal again soon, I'm sure.

Events

GABA Tucson Mission Road Ramble – Sunday, February 18
GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

January 6 Saturday Cycling Report

Fifty-one Cyclists for St. Francis Loop Fun

Added January 12, 2018

written by Ken St. John

This week a full fifty-one cyclists signed up for the fun. Word of the great biking weather must be getting around. The 3-day weekend of the CGC is forecast to be near perfect again. If you are fortunate to be freed from work on Monday in honor of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., you might as well enjoy another bonus ride. Thanks to Ride Leader and Merchandise Master, Bob Litchfield, we have an MLK Holiday ride with a Gilbert meet-up.

Coming up...

Monday, 01/15/18 8:30 a.m., Gilbert. MLK Day Ride
Meet up with Bob Litchfield at Panera Bread on the southwest corner of Williams Field Rd. and Santan Village Pkwy. in Gilbert. Maps of the flat, 35-mile route will be provided. Sunrise: 7:32

Tid Bits...

Did you know that there is one volunteer position on the CGC century that you can do and still ride the ride? That would be registration. So, the management team has moved some of the registration volunteers to other assignments, and they are now pleading for ride-participants to come early and do that registration job. Please use the volunteer link below to sign up. You still must pay to participate, even if you volunteer (that free ride was eliminated years ago).

Even with the shuffling, there is still need for more volunteers at lunch and rest stops.

Events

2018 Casa Grande Century – Sunday January 14

2018 Casa Grande Century
Casa Grande Century Needs Volunteers
Help is still needed for lunch service, rest stops and sign placement

GABA Tucson Mission Road Ramble – Sunday, February 18
GABA Tucson Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, March 17-18
GABA Tucson Cave Creek Overnight Ride – Sat-Sun, April 21-22

Have fun and ride safely.

29th Annual New Year's Day Potluck

A Group Photo

Added January 4, 2018

By Scott Barvian. Photo by Walt Paciorek

The 29th annual New Year's Day Potluck was held at Usery Mountain Regional Park. This event was started in 1990 by the "Pinnacle Peak Pedalers" under the leadership of the late Gurnelle Jones and Bob Prochaska. Roseann Wagner has organized it for the last several years.

On this sunny and warm New Year's, we paid tribute to Leroy Kopel and George Martinez, and toasts were offered for a safe and healthy 2018.

Pinnacle Peak Pedalers 29th annual New Year's Day Potluck