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The Hub Archive – 2007

December 31 Spin Cycle Report

2006 Flat Head of the Year Award

Added January 2, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 18 hearty souls brave the cool morning and head out East. Another great day of riding, just like 52 plus during the last year. Thanks for everyone for making it fun for me. Let's see, I cannot forget Ron Waller getting Flat Head of the year honors. Who knows if he really did have more than anyone else, but having 4 on the last day, and the harassment he gave to Rueben prior to his gives him this years award. I hope everyone has a great new year - Glen

REMEMBER - NEXT SUNDAY'S RIDE WILL BE THE CASA GRANDE CENTURY - NO START FROM DESERT BREEZE

JANUARY START TIMES ARE 8:30.

Ride Schedule

1/7 - Casa Grande Century - Join PMBC on the first century of the year. This ride is a great first century or metric century. The terrain is flat, the roads have low traffic, and if history repeats itself, the weather is sunny with a high of 70. Three ride options will be offered: 100 miles, 62 miles, and 34 miles. For more info see Casa Grande Century.

1/14 - Ocotukee Loop - Yes we'll actually do it this time. Ride options of 35, 40, or 55 miles with the longer routes having hills. Breakfast at Brueggers Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

1/21 - Tour de Mesa - Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with hills on the longer route. Breakfast at Pleaissant Croissants - Rural & Elliot.

1/28 - Tour De Mummy Backwards - Mileage options of 37 or 50 miles with breakfast at US Egg on Mill & Baseline.

December 29 Saturday Cycling Report

47 Bravely Bundled Up Pedalers Rolled Out For Tour de Mesa

Added December 30, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We once again had more riders than the morning temp today, but that isn't saying much considering the weather. Our 47 bravely bundled up pedalers rolled out east in search of the sun. (In about July, somebody remind us of that!) The group gradually spread out, but the "B" pack could easily be tracked just by following the sounds of coughing from those suffering from winter colds. We had several new-to-cycling guests today, coming out to train for the MS Society charity ride coming up later this spring. Today they learned about cold weather riding (uh, its cold) and our club motto ("We ride to eat!").

Coming up...

Tuesday 1/1/08 8:30am Kiwanis Park. A holiday romp! Some cultures believe that what you do on the first day of the year determines your path for the coming year. Since your path should be in the bike lane, get it started off right with The Captain's Ride. A one size-fits-all moderately paced roll around Tempe, in the general direction of Lehi. Mileage doesn't really matter and will be determined by The Captain. Hang-overs optional. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Saturday 1/5/08 8:30am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE. Mummy Mountain, original route, with options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with some bonus climbs. Brunch at Someburros, southwest of Baseline & College.

Saturday 1/12/08 8:30am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Sue takes us to the south, with options on Queen Creek or Riggs. Mileage choices 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Brunch at AZ Bread Co, southeast corner Elliot & Kyrene.

Tid bits

Lots of cyclists enjoy logging their mileage, either as personal motivation or in casual (or not so casual) competition with their friends. Many of our club members do so on the website www.bikejournal.com. The basics of the site, such as the bike journal section, are free and used by cyclists around the country. Its a great place to communicate with other riders and learn probably more details about our sport than you ever thought possible (or wanted to know). Everybody's mileage log will start over at the zero point on January 1st, so this is a great time to hop on the train for the coming year. If you do, tie yourself in with our club under the name Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club. Help us whomp those other silly clubs on total miles pedalled this year. Not that we're competitve or anything.

Ride safe

Letter from the Prez

A Message From Our New President

Added December 27, 2007

written by Ron Waller

Message from the new president

As your new President I want to extend best wishes and a safe and Happy Holiday to you and your families. We have an excellent organization in P.M.B.C. Every one of us has personal reasons why we ride a bike. Fun, competition, health, a desire to challenge one's-self; whatever your reason we appreciate your being a member of P.M.B.C. One of the things which makes an organization succeed are its volunteers. We have many events which can use your help and support. Do it, it pays very large dividends. If you're not sure of what you can do, ask one of your board members.

P.M.B.C. is a diverse organization. Are you aware our members include a "state cycling champion?" We have members who have raced on a national basis. Our members also include those who give tirelessly to various charities and causes. Whether it is riding miles for dollars or volunteering their time, they want to help others. Some of our members are also happy to just ride. Not how far or how fast... just ride. On your next ride say "HI" to someone who you don't know. Offer encouragement or a kind word.

How many of you are 50 or over? Are you aware that every February in Phoenix the Arizona Senior Games are held? There are many sporting events, including cycling (held in Ahwatukee). If interested go to www.seniorgames.org and check it out. Some of our club members did well enough to qualify for the National Games. Don't laugh; you would be surprised at what some of those "seniors" can accomplish.

I am going to ask one thing from each of you. Tell us something about yourself. Why do you ride? Who are you? I'll start. I have been cycling for over 20 years. I'm 58 years old, married and have two adult kids. So far this year I have ridden 6,508 miles. Totals miles in my cycling career? Don't know - a lot. I started out racing and had a very unsuccessful career – but a lot of fun. Had the benefit of training with some very good pros. John Eustace was my favorite; very patient, kind, soft spoken – a lot like me. So tell us about yourself.

Ride smooth ... be safe.

December 22 Saturday Cycling Report

Near Freezing Temps for St. Francis Loop

Added December 23, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Even a starting temp hovering at freezing didn't deter 52 cyclists from turning out this morn. Remembering their high school chemistry (calories burned = heat), all rolled out, struggling for the first couple of miles until those internal combustion engines got cookin', and then it was grand. A flat tire a few miles out did result in a drawing of straws to see who would strip off their gloves to clear the tire. A variety of routes were then explored, depending on how chilled the riders got. The staff at Fantasy Grill had the heaters going, and even welcomed in some early arrivers, bringing them in out of the cold until the rest of the group appeared. Though no breakfast menu, and not even a coffee pot (the owner ran out and bought one while we were there!) everybody seemed comfy basking in the warmth and good company.

Coming up...

Monday 12/24/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Don your red/green riding gear and join our Christmas Eve adventure. Rumor has is that a traditional annual special guest rider will be appearing with us. We'll roll around the AhwaFooty route, with options of 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at the newly relocated Pleaissant Croissant, northwest corner of Rural & Elliot.

Saturday 12/29/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Tour de Mesa, with route options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Tuesday 1/1/08 8:30am Kiwanis Park. The Captain's Ride. A one size-fits-all moderately paced roll around Tempe, in the general direction of Lehi. Mileage doesn't really matter and will be determined by The Captain. (And if you are silly enough to not know who The Captain is, well, you better just get yourself to this ride.) Hang-overs optional. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Tid bits

A message from Ms. Casa Grande herself, Jane Larson:

CASA GRANDE CENTURY -- Early registration by Dec. 29!

The Casa Grande Century, PMBC's biggest ride of the year, will be Sunday, Jan. 6.

Early registration costs only $15 for club members, and ENDS Saturday, Dec. 29. After that, we tack on a $10 late fee and you will pay $25 for the same great ride.

Download the registration and release forms from casagrande.html, write your check and send them in to the PMBC mailbox this week! Or, new this year, register at www.active.com for an additional $3.

Accuweather.com is predicting sunny and 70 for the whole week of the ride, so you know now that you will want to be there!

Ride safe

December 15 Saturday Cycling Report

Several Flat Tire Clinics on Romp to South Mountain

Added December 16, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 57 riders ignore the temp and appear at Kiwanis for our romp to South Mountain this morning. Approximately 56 of them actually left the park on their bikes and headed out on the route. The tailwind assisted roll over fortunately kept the wind-chill factor at bay a bit. The journey back to breakfast became a bit of a whelming* saga, with the headwind making us work hard enough to stay warm, but the construction debris and broken glass along Baseline slowing us down for several flat tire clinics. The hot coffee at the Bread Co was very popular.

*(Yes, "whelming" is a word. If something can be overwhelming or underwhelming, then something could be whelming, right??)

Coming up...

Saturday 12/22/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. The St. Francis Loop, with route options of 26 miles or 36 miles, both with moderate climbing. We head to the Fantasy Grill, southwest corner of Baseline & College. The Grill is opening just for our group at 10:30am on the promise that we will have at least 20 hungry cyclists at their door at about that time. The wait-staff will be donning specially selected outfits, just for us. Potential for a new holiday tradition to be hatched here.

Monday 12/24/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Don your red/green riding gear and join us our Christmas Eve adventure. We'll roll around the AhwaFooty route, with options of 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast will be at the newly relocated Pleaissant Croissant, northwest corner of Rural & Elliot.

Saturday 12/29/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Tour de Mesa, with route options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Tuesday 1/1/08 8:30am Kiwanis Park. To those asking, yes, of course there will be a ride this date! New Year's Day just wouldn't be complete without seeing your friends appear bleary eyed on their bikes. Route and breakfast stop still in progress, stay tuned for details.

Tid bits

"Cotton is rotten." Its possible the Arizona Cotton Coalition would disagree with that comment, but in today's world of wonder materials in athletic wear, cotton has definitely been bumped down the list a bit. When riding in cold temps, you'll want your inner layer, the clothing up against your torso, to be a wicking fabric. If you are going to spend any money on cold weather riding gear, start with an undershirt. They are relatively inexpensive (as riding gear goes), with great return of value. If you wear cotton as a first layer, it will hold the sweat up against you, which gets to be yuck in a very short while. You'll also want your outer layer to be something that will block the wind, which again, cotton doesn't do very well. Cotton fabrics do make a comfy mid-layer, though, and since cotton is one of the 5 "C"s in our state motto, might want to work it in there somewhere. (Can you name the other 4 "C"s?? Cotton, copper,... uh, cars? crowds? condos?)

Ride safe

December 9 Spin Cycle Report

26 Hardy Souls Take On the Milk Run

Added December 10, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 26 hardy souls take on the Milk Run, even though several turned around when the slightest of drops were felt. Our morning started off right, giving Neal $%@S about his recently acquired girls jersey, it does say one size fits all. After that, everything went down hill. Sprint points were taken by Matt, who not only demolished the field, but put us in our place. Breakfast was entertaining as usual.

Ride Schedule

12/16 - 8:00 AM - Tour de Mesa - Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with some slight climbing on the longer route. Breakfast at Maui Wowi on Ray & Price.

12/23 - 8:00 AM - Tour de Scottsdale - Mileage of 35 or 45 miles. Breakfast at Ken McDonald Golf Course - Guadalupe & Rural.

12/30 - 8:00 AM - Last ride of the year for Sunday - Let's do McKellips Loop - Breakfast TBD.

December 8 Saturday Cycling Report

Close Race for 2008 Club Officers Resolved

Added December 9, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 12 intrepid riders turn out to start from the park (on their bikes) to head to the club's quarterly meeting this morning. Some of them actually pedaled all the way to the restaurant, a few did a token ride and then were tempted back to their warm dry cars for the rest of the journey. Our close race for 2008 club officers was finally resolved. Since we only had one brave member offering to fill each position, we skipped the actual election and just called it good. Stepping up to lead us next year will be president Ron Waller, vice prez Tom Adams, secretary Jane Larson, and treasurer Mike Kirk. Great thanks to out going president Jay Stewart for his service and for his offer to stay on as a general board member this next year. Bunchs of thanks to departing treasurer Quyen Nyugen and board member Chris Jungk.

Coming up...

Saturday 12/15/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. To and/or up South Mountain, with route options of 27 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with lots of climbing. Breakfast at Arizona Bread Co, southeast corner of Elliot & Kyrene.

Monday 12/24/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Don your jingle bell shorts (yes, there really is a pair of those in the pack), your red and green riding gear, and your antlers for our Christmas Eve adventure. We'll roll around the AhwaFooty route, with options of 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. As pay back to the gals for going to Fantasy Grill on the ride before this, we'll head to the newly relocated Pleaissant Croissant, northwest corner of Rural & Elliot. Most excellent croissants, both sweet and savory, hot drinks... if you close your eyes, you might just think you're at a sidewalk bistro in Paris... except for the traffic noise.

Tid bits

In the athletic world, a new term is being tossed around... "cold-induced volume depletion", which has to do with hydration, or actually the lack thereof. We saw an excellent example of volume depletion and the aftermath of it in a few riders at last week's Free Rain aka Free Ride. You drive to the park in your nicely heated car, then hop out and mill about in the cold parking lot before the ride starts. While you are standing around talking to your friends in the cold air, your body is doing a wonderous thing. The blood vessels in your arms and legs are constricting, sending the resulting excess fluid volume to your torso to protect your organs from the cold. Your torso says "Hey thanks, but that is WAY more volume than we need!" and zings the excess along to your bladder. Now, you hop on your bike and start madly pedaling away. Your limbs immediately calls to the torso, "Whoa Nellie, we're opening back up, give us that fluid volume back!!" And then, Houston, you have a problem. Your bladder isn't giving anything back, its waiting anxiously for you to arrive at the first regroup potty. Your torso graciously offers to send back a share of what it still has, but now, you're fluid volume depleted. If you don't replenish that depletion and continue to ride in that state, bad news. Your performance will decline rapidly and you'll become fatigued. If you wait till the end of the ride to tank back up, the damage is already done and it can take up to 24 hours for you to recover. The next day you'll feel beat up, headachy, and be generally unmotivated to move. Volume depletion needs to be dealt with as soon as it happens. You could chug plain water as you roll along, but that depletion will have thrown off your ratio of stuff... salts, minerals, electrolytes. An enhanced beverage (that could be a sport drink or diluted fruit juice with a pinch of salt) or munching a snackie while you glug water, will get you back where you want to be. Pump up the volume!

Ride safe

GITAP '08 Summer Bike Tour

Tom Recommends this Illinois Summer Bike Tour

Added December 9, 2007

written by Tom Adams

Looking for a bike tour this summer? I can recommend GITAP. GITAP is the week-long Grand Illinois Trails and Parks ride which Jane & Paul and Wendy and I rode in June of 2007.

The GITAP-08 tour is Sunday, June 15 to Saturday, June 21, 2008, starting and ending at Sauk Valley Community College in Dixon, IL. You'll ride prairie, hills, and Mississippi River shoreline through small towns and one large one - the Quad Cities - using a mixture of green trails and low-traffic roads (for the most part). You'll be overnighting at three superlative Illinois State Parks. The basic route covers about 300 miles, but added mileage extras will allow for as many as 550 miles for the week.

Accomodations are tent camping in state parks, with a motel package available at an additional cost. Showers and luggage transportation provided. Breakfasts and dinners are included - and, of course, a T-shirt, emergency sag, bike repair, and refreshment stops when needed. (An optional jersey will be for sale.) There are nightly meetings featuring ride info, occasional entertainment, and door prizes. Optionally, you can sign up for the Velosophie "book club" discussions. All this for only $375! (motels extra).

For more information, see their website at http://www.bikelib.org/ and read my trip report of last year's ride at http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/gitap07.

Tom Adams

Jane & Paul's 6th Tucson Tour

A 4-Day Tour Over President's Day Weekend

Added December 6, 2007

written by Tom Adams

Jane & Paul's 6th Tucson Tour will take place in February 2008 for 4 days over the President's day weekend, from Friday Feb 15 thru Mon Feb 18, 2008. The route is ~240 miles over 4 days, about 60 miles per day. This year we will ride a counterclockwise loop, staying in motels in Casa Grande, Tucson, and Florence.

The ride is self-supported, meaning you carry your own bike tools & spares, snacks, water, clothing, etc. This is NOT a club-sponsored ride and there is no entry fee. If you are interested in bike touring, this is a good way to get started. You set your own pace and can take as long as you need. The route is fairly flat (except day 3's climb to Oracle Junction). We take good roads and avoid traffic as much as possible.

Here is the itinerary and approximate distances:
Fri Feb 15, Scottsdale to Casa Grande, ~55 miles.
Sat Feb 16, Casa Grande to Tucson, ~57 miles.
Sun Feb 17, Tucson to Florence, ~64 miles.
Mon Feb 18, Florence to Scottsdale, ~61 miles.

If you would like more details, contact Tom Adams with the names and cell phone numbers of your riders.

Invite to 3rd Annual Zoolights Night Ride

Ride to Zoolights at the Phoenix Zoo

Added December 6, 2007

written by Tom Adams

PMBC and ABC are invited to join BRAG-AZ for the 3rd Annual Zoolights night ride to the Phoenix Zoo on Sunday 12/16/07. We will start riding about 5:30pm from Randy's Restaurant, 7904 E Chaparral Rd # 210 (NW corner of Chaparral & Hayden). You can learn more about Zoolights.

If riding at night is an issue, not to worry. This is a good ride to practice on. It is a short 6 mile ride and we will ride mostly along bikepaths at about 10mph. We will have experienced night riders leading and sweeping. Make yourself and your bike visible with lights, blinkies, reflectors, and light colored clothing.

Join us for dinner at Randy's before the ride at 4:30pm. Bring cash or a check - Randy's doesn't do plastic. There are snack bars at the Zoo, but they are not recommended. You can also bring snacks along with.

This is a night ride, so you'll need layers of warm clothes against the cold and bike lights to ride at night. The more lights, reflectors and blinkies the better. You can dress in the holiday spirit and decorate your bike as well! Don't forget a pair of walking shoes. Flat pedals and tennis shoes will work. You don't want to be stumbling around for a couple hours on Look cleats!

It's only 6 miles from Randy's to the Zoo via IBW, Oak & Crosscut Canal bikepath. We will stay an hour or two and should be back at Randy's before 9pm.

Please RSVP Tom Adams so I have a headcount for tickets. Tim is a Zoo member and can get some tickets at the gate for $6, or regular admission is $8.

Hope to see you there!

tla

2007 Free Ride Photos

Wet but Fun!

Added December 6, 2007

by Tom Adams

Tom Adams took a few photos of the 2007 Free Ride. The photos can be seen at http://picasaweb.google.com/tla85258/2007_1201FreeRide.

December 1 Saturday Cycling Report

Free Ride Brought Us Lots of Free Rain, Free Wind

Added December 2, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Free Ride yesterday brought us lots of free rain, free wind, and a great BBQ lunch afterwards. We had 40 brave souls sign in, stating that they were going to attempt the event. A few rode the benches under the ramada roof at the park all morning. A few rolled out to about Lehi and then slogged back to the start. Most of the remainder of the group selected either the 25 or 40 mile version of the romp and 4 silly riders went for the whole soggy enchilada and did 60 miles. The rain was at some points blowing sideways, and we had white caps on the lemonade at the lunch. Thanks to ride leader Glen Fletcher for being quick on his feet the last few days before the adventure, trying to second guess what the weather was going to be for the ride and how much food to have available. Thanks to Tom Adams and others who kept the lunch set up from blowing away, and kudos to Jay Stewart and The Captain (Leon Smith) for providing beyond the call of duty vehicle support for all of our wayward ducklings.

Coming up...

Saturday 12/8/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Note the change of start time! Come join us for our last PMBC quarterly ride and breakfast meeting of the year. We'll be holding elections for officers for 2008, finally bringing an end to the heavy campaigning that has been going on amid the long list of candidates. Breakfast location is the Home Town Buffet in Scottdale, at Belleview & Scottsdale Road (that's between McKellips & McDowell). Ride with SatCycling from Kiwanis Park (route options of 23 miles or 33 miles, both with a bit of climbing) to the gathering or meet us there at 10:00am. Breakfast is free for all PMBC members, $8 for non-members.

Saturday 12/15/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. To and or up South Mountain, with route options of 27 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with lots of climbing. Breakfast at Arizona Bread Co, southeast corner of Elliot & Kyrene.

Saturday 12/22/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. The St. Francis Loop, which is becoming one the pack's favorite loopy rides, offers route options of 26 miles or 36 miles, both with moderate climbing. As your ride leaderess's gift to all of the guys in the club, we head to the Fantasy Grill, southwest corner of College & Baseline, for eats after the ride. For anybody that can't handle that location, US Egg is in the same parking lot.

Tid bits

Is your strength on the bike greater than your bike handling skill and knowledge of cycling? In the lead group on Saturdays, we often encounter cyclists who have the physical ability to ride in the lead line, but they show little knowledge of cycling skills. Though most cyclists who fall (sometimes literally) in that category don't recognize themselves by that description, one hint that it is you is if you find other riders correcting you... often. If that happens, listen, learn, apply. Pair yourself up with somebody adorned in one of our Phoenix Metro (AZ flag) jerseys, and ask questions. Watch the other riders around you, try to match your movements to theirs. Riding in the lead group is a dance, and it works much, much better if everybody knows the steps.

Ride safe

PMBC Free Ride Report

Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day

Added December 1, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

Today reminded me of Winnie the Pooh and the blustery day - Winnie the Pooh and his friends experience high winds, heavy rains, and a flood in Hundred Acre Wood. You can insert your own definition of who was the Rabbit, Eeyore, Piglet, Owl, Gopher, Kanga, Roo, Tigger, Christopher Robin, and Pooh. We had 40 riders brave the Hundred Acre Woods, or North Mesa and Usery Pass that is. Although the weather was not cooperative, a fun time was held by all. Some of the most interesting quotes of the day. "It's a nice sunny day for Belgium!". "The lid popped off the lemonade and I saw white caps!". And my favorite, "You have to be smarter than the trash can!".

Special thanks go out to the people who made this ride successful, the volunteers. Thanks Jay, Captain, Tom, Ron, Gary, Tom, and Tim.

November 24 Saturday Cycling Report

Pre-dawn Harvest Moon Beckons Riders to McKellips Loop

Added November 25, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

A giant harvest moon hung in the pre-dawn sky this morning, beckoning our riders to the park for our third day of pedaling this weekend. Only 57 cyclists answered the call, the rest apparently detered by the cold breeze that was already kicking up. The attempted roll across McKellips spread the group out by attrition, with riders splitting off to the south on a variety of routes as they tired of fighting the wind. Breakfast chatter ranged from what the odds were that Dr. Klein could set a new trend with his lens-less riding glasses to the fact that there are now only 51 weeks left to train for next year's Tour de Tucson.

And speaking of Tucson, thanks bunches to Ron Waller for leading the home team last weekend so the rest of us could go ramble round the southern romp. Congrats to Larry Lyon for a most excellent finish time of 4:48:15 on the 109 mile course, and for thrashing Neal Thomas who came in 3 long seconds later.

Coming up...

Saturday 12/1/07 9:30am Pioneer Park. FREE RIDE! This is the one Saturday of the year when Saturday Cycling relocates our start point. There will be no club hosted ride from Kiwanis Park on this date. Please join us at Pioneer Park in Mesa for FREE RIDE. See the Major Events for details. Sign-in opens at 9:00am, ride departs at 9:30am. There is no charge for this event (hence the name FREE RIDE!) but we need you to RSVP to our ride leader if you will be attending so we know how many we are feeding. Ride leader is Glen Fletcher.

Saturday 12/8/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Note the change of start time! And speaking of free eats, come join us for our last PMBC quarterly ride and breakfast meeting of the year. We'll be holding elections for officers for 2008, finally bringing an end to the heavy campaigning that has been going on amid the long list of candidates. Breakfast location is the Home Town Buffet in Scottdale, at Belleview & Scottsdale Road (that's between McKellips & McDowell). Ride with SatCycling from Kiwanis Park (route options of 23 miles or 33 miles, both with a bit of climbing) to the gathering or meet us there at 10:00am. Breakfast is free for all PMBC members, $8 for non-members.

Saturday 12/15/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. Before we all start whining that its too cold on the downhills, we're headed to South Mountain. Route options of 27 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with lots of climbing. Breakfast at Arizona Bread Co, southeast corner of Elliot & Kyrene.

Tid bits

For some people the approach of Christmas brings to mind sugar plums and candy canes. For the long time members of our club, the holidays mean... lasagna! Jack and Jan Graham once again invite all to their home in south Tempe for an evening of eats and laughs. Date is Saturday December 8th, doors open at 5pm. They're providing the lasagna and sodas, you bring a side dish or dessert to share. So we know how many lasagna eaters will be appearing, please RSVP.

Ride safe

November Spin Cycle Report

November Report

Added November 25, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

Ok, so it has been a while since the last ride report. I guess I need a pay raise...Well, if you haven't been riding, you have been missing some great weather (myself included there). The group has been steady with 25-30 riders each week, and of course, the banter is entertaining as usual.

See the upcoming ride info...

Ride Schedule

11/22 - Turkey Day - Come ride at KIWANIS Park and burn off a few slices of pie before the big day - 7:30 at Kawinas - Tour de Lehi.

11/23 - No shop Friday - Come join Sunday Spin cycle on Friday and ride Germannalupe with mileage options of 23, 33, or 40 miles, breakfast at Wildflower - Chandler Mall.

11/25 - 7:30 AM - Turkey day weekend - Tour de Lindsay - mileage options of 40 or 50 miles. Breakfast at Bogies Club house at Ken McDonald Golf Course - Guadalupe & Rural.

12/1 - SATURDAY - FREE RIDE - Yes I said free. The club says thank you for another great year, and sponsoring a ride for all cyclists. Check out the web site for more details. Start time is 9:00, so you can sleep in, have a BBQ after the ride. RSVP to ME so we know how much food.

12/2 - Sunday - 8:00 AM. NOTICE CHANGE OF START TIME - We'll Do Metro Mania, mileage options of 35 or 45 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Einstein's on Ray & McKlintock.

12/8 - Saturday - General Membership breakfast & meeting - Start at Sat Cycling, breakfast & meeting at Home Town Buffet in Scottsdale (1312 N Scottsdale Rd).

12/9 - Sunday - 8:00 AM - Milk Run - mileage options of 30, 35, 40, 45, or 50 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower at Chandler Mall.

November 10 Saturday Cycling Report

Adventure to the Foothills

Added November 11, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 75 riders turn out for our adventure to the foothills this morning. The group spread out into even more alternate versions than have ever been seen on this course. Various games of follow-the-leader or more aptly described as follow-somebody-who-doesn't-know-where-they-are-going evolved. At one point the entire middle of the pack was seen riding backwards along a section of the route, but all appeared to be having a grand time of it. Most managed to find their way to the food stop afterwards, though there was a rumor that one rider was last seen doing endless loops on Liberty, the man who never returned. Wasn't that a line from a song from way back when? Lost forever on the streets of Boston, the man who never returned. Or was that under the streets? Close enough.

Coming up...

Saturday 11/17/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Note, due to a large running event being based in our traditional parking lot (how dare they?), our meeting point for this date's ride will be relocated to the next parking lot to the south in Kiwanis Park, closer to Guadalupe road. Mummy Mountain, original route, options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with some bonus climbs. Pit stop at the Coffee Plantation, on the east side of Mill, between 6th St & 7th St.

Thursday 11/22/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Our traditional turkey day loop to the quiet streets of Lehi. Route options of 24 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at IHOP (cranberry coffee?), southwest corner Apache & College.

Friday 11/23/07 7:30am Desert Breeze Park. Kokopedallis and Spin Cycle invite all to a blended all levels "just say no shopping" ride. Route and breakfast stop still to be determined, but we'll be offering a little something for everybody.

Saturday 11/24/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. The McKellips Loop, with route options of 28 miles or 37 miles, one gentle climb on each. Breakfast at Einsteins, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock.

Saturday 12/1/07 9:30am Pioneer Park. FREE RIDE! This is the one Saturday of the year when Saturday Cycling relocates our start point. There will be no club hosted ride from Kiwanis Park on this date. Please join us at Pioneer Park in Mesa for FREE RIDE. See Major Events for details. Sign-in will open at 9:00am, ride departs at 9:30am. There is no charge for this event (hence the name FREE RIDE!) but we need you to RSVP to our ride leader if you will be attending so we know how many we are feeding. Ride leader is Glen Fletcher.

Tid bits

Our lost and found collection from the Saturday rides sometimes gathers interesting and puzzling things. We are now holding a very nice Giro helmet that was left on the curb in the parking lot at Kiwanis Park about 3 weeks ago. Kind of assumed somebody would notice that it was missing and come forward to claim it.

Ride safe

November 3 Saturday Cycling Report

75 Riders Challenged by Cyclist-Eating Obstacles on Reverse Tour de Sue

Added November 4, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 75 riders head out of the park yesterday morning, taking on the challenge of the cyclist-eating diagonal train tracks at Elliot/Warner and the cyclist-eating speed bumps at the southern end of Kyrene. Once we got past those challenging spots, the rest of the romp went pretty well. Banter over bagels at breakfast involved figuring out who is "in training" for El Tour de Tucson, either by way of adding miles and intensity on the bike or by working on building up their endurance for power eating.

Coming up...

Saturday 11/10/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. AhwaFooty takes us into the foothills of Ahwatukee, with route options of 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Arizona Bread Co, southeast corner Elliot & Kyrene.

Saturday 11/17/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain, original route, options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with some bonus climbs. Caffeine and carbs at the Coffee Plantation, on the east side of Mill, between 6th St & 7th St.

Thursday 11/22/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Come earn that pumpkin pie on our traditional turkey day loop to the quiet streets of Lehi. Route options of 24 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at IHOP (turkey on toast?), southwest corner Apache & College.

Friday 11/23/07 7:30am Desert Breeze Park. Kokopedallis and Spin Cycle invite all to a blended all levels "just say no shopping" ride. Route and breakfast stop to be determined, but we'll be offering a little something for everybody.

Saturday 11/24/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. The McKellips Loop, with route options of 28 miles or 37 miles, one gentle climb on each. Breakfast at Einsteins, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock.

Tid bits

Crossing a hazard in your path, such as train tracks, speed bumps, two-by-fours, etc. can rise up and bite even very experienced riders. In fact, new cyclists are sometimes more attuned to things like that, having less trouble with them than long time riders who have become complacent. When you cross anything that has the potential to re-direct your front wheel (as in make it go sideways instead of forward), you must have both hands on the handlebars in a firm, stable grip. If your front wheel encounters a barrier, it is going to want to flip to the side, and having one hand on is not going to keep that from happening. Yes, we have all watched the pro-riders do amazing things with either one hand or no hands on... riding over curbs, cobblestones, other riders, etc... but kids, don't try that at home. Get a grip.

Ride safe

October 28 Spin Cycle Report

22 Riders Head Up to the Towers

Added October 28, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 22 riders head up to the towers today. What a nice day, much better than last week's wind feast. As Pooh would have said, it was a blustery day! All made it up the hill, some of us slower than others, and then bee lined it to breakfast. There, the entertainment started, and was even joined by a few who attended the Tempe Bike Festival even though they didn't deserve to eat since they didn't ride (ok, riding 11 miles at 8mph doesn't count). Let's just say nothing was left out of the conversation.

Starting next week, our rides start at 7:30 for the month of November.

Ride Schedule

11/4 - 7:30 AM - Note new start time. We'll do Tour de Queen Creek by popular demand. Mileage options of 25, 35, 40, 45, or 50 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower at the Chandler Mall.

11/11 - 7:30 AM - Sacaton - Another by request. Mileage options of 37, 52, 58, 60 or for those that want even more, I can get them 70 miles. Longer routes have one climb. Breakfast at Wildflower - Chandler Mall.

11/18 - 7:30 AM - Day after Tour de Tucson - We'll make it easy and do Tour de Lehi - Mileage options of 35 or 40 miles, breakfast at Valle Luna on Ray & Dobson.

11/25 - 7:30 AM - Turkey day weekend - Tour de Lindsay - Mileage options of 40 or 50 miles. Breakfast at Bogies Club house at Ken McDonald Golf Course - Guadalupe & Rural.

October 27 Saturday Cycling Report

80 Riders on St. Francis Figure Eight Loop Thru Town

Added October 28, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 80 riders slip into the park just after sunrise for our figure eight romp up thru town. The short routers did themselves proud, making it about two thirds of the way round the course before being over taken by the express train. Getting to the breakfast stop involved a couple of detours, with the Tempe Beach area being assembled for a triathalon event tomorrow. Our new eats stop drew mixed reviews, ranging from "Great eggs!" to "Uh, what is this I'm eating?". We'll continue our quest for a fuel stop on the north side of the park, so if anybody has any bright ideas, pass them along.

Coming up...

Saturday 11/3/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Note the time change! We head south on the Tour de Sue, in reverse. Route options on either Queen Creek or Riggs Road. Mileage either 25 or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Saturday 11/10/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. AhwaFooty takes us into the foothills of Ahwatukee, with route options of 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast stop for this adventure is still in the works, stay tuned.

Saturday 11/17/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. If you are just saying no to joining 10,000 cyclists in Tucson on this date, the home team is headed out on the pack's favorite route, Mummy Mountain. Route options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with some bonus climbs. Breakfast stop still being sorted out.

Tid bits

Do you have friends that drive their cars to a gym so they can participate in a spin class? As real world cyclists, that concept makes us laugh, but it isn't much different from the idea of driving your car a few miles to Kiwanis Park so you can go for a bike ride with us. Our start time shifts later next week, so there will be daylight for you to pedal to the start. The mid-day heat of the summer is gone, so you don't have to be concerned with heat stroke for the post ride pedal back afterwards. If you live within a few miles of the park, leave the polluter at home (that's your car, not your burrito fueled significant other) and use your miles to the park as warm up and cruise home as cool down. Tread lightly on the earth.

Ride safe

October 20 Saturday Cycling Report

Tour de Mesa: Around Our Own Yellow Brick Road

Added October 23, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

This past Saturday's ride leader, Ron Waller, sends the following ride report:

"What a glorious morning to ride! One would never know it was the 78th anniversary of the Wizard of Oz. Appropriate since the ride leader forgot his shoes. We had 69 riders join us for our struggle around our own yellow brick road. No wind; no flats and no problems with lots of bright fresh sunshine (once we got the shoe thing straightened out)."

Hmm... don't remember there being a BusMan in the Oz story, musta been in later chapters.

Coming up...

Saturday 11/3/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Note the time change! We continue our roll into cooler days, with the Tour de Sue, in reverse. A route to the south, with options on either Queen Creek or Riggs Road. Mileage either 25 or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Saturday 11/10/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. We'll go see if the leaves are changing yet on the cacti in Ahwatukee with the AhwaFooty route. Options of 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast stop for this adventure is still in the works, stay tuned.

Tid bits

At a recent event ride, some of the zippier riders expressed astonishment at how gently some of the more moderate riders approached the adventure. No rest stops left unvisited, no ramping up of the heart rate, just your basic dawdling along the course. On the flip side of that, the rear guard often seems stunned by the way in which the faster paced riders enjoy their miles, pushing themselves to the ragged edge physically, seeking competition, going for the rush a hard ride brings on. Aren't we a wonderfully eclectic group? The smart people in the crowd keep a cleat in each crowd, sometimes running amuck in the front and sometimes taking in the sights trailing the herd. Variety is the spice of life. If we could only echo that diversity and acceptance out into the world, into life in general, what a wonderful thing it would be!

Ride safe

October 13 Saturday Cycling Report

Reduced Pack of 47 Riders Roll Around Mummy Mountain

Added October 14, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The combined draw of the Cochise ride and the Safety ride reduced our home team to 47 attendees this morning, but they made up for lack of pack size with exuberance. The romp north under cloudy skies reminded us what a paradise the valley is in the fall. The roll around Mummy was the usual adventure, with a few riders adding bonus "scenic loop" miles. (Getting "lost" sounds so negative... you're on your bike, its a beautiful day, what's not to like?) For some reason most opted to skip the breakfast stop, leaving the thugs to do the aftermath play by play themselves, which means they made up their own version of the entire morning.

Coming up...

Saturday 10/20/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We head to the northeast on the Tour de Mesa. Route options 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock.

Saturday 10/27/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The St. Francis Loop, a figure eight route up through town, with route options of 26 miles or 36 miles, both with moderate climbing. Breakfast stop is Essence, southeast corner of Hardy and University. For the caffiene-only crowd, there's also a Starbucks on the corner, or for the bean-brigade, Rosita's is across the street.

Saturday 11/3/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Note the time change! We continue our roll into cooler days, with the Tour de Sue, in reverse. A route to the south, with options on either Queen Creek or Riggs Road. Mileage either 25 or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Tid bits

Are you a righty or a lefty? Do you stop right foot down? Or left foot down? Is one way correct and the other wrong? It depends on who you ask. The only actual wrong dismount method is to unclip both feet while your butt is still on your seat. Once you do that, you have left yourself no way to gracefully, and safely, get your body weight off your seat and a foot down. To keep control of your bike you need to leave one foot clipped in. If you ask the people who design and build bikes, and coaches, they will tell you that correct dismount is to unclip the foot opposite your drive train. Assuming you ride a standard right side driven bike, that means you unclip with your left foot, leaving your right foot clipped in. When you start up, your down stroke is with your right foot. Doing so gives a direct straight back pull of power along your drive train. If you unclip right foot down, when you make that first down stroke on the start with your left foot, you are transfering power through your bottom bracket to the drive train, putting a lot of torque on the bike. The other issue is that new riders (or tired experienced riders) tend to veer off a bit on the side their starting stroke is. If you start with left foot clipped in, you'll veer left into traffic or other cyclists passing you. If you start right foot stroke first, if you veer off it will be to the right, which you will hopefully correct before you become one with the curb. Having said all of that, for recreational cyclists, the "correct" side to foot down on is the one that you are most comfortable and co-ordinated with. If you learned right foot down, or are favoring a knee, ankle or hip injury on one side, unclip on the right to your heart's content. Few of us have the leg power to trash a bike just by the strength of our stroke, and a smooth straight "wrong side" start is always a better choice than a bobbled awkward "correct" start.

Ride safe

October 7 Spin Cycle Report

A Great Fall Morning for Tempe Mountains

Added October 7, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 24 riders today for a great fall morning. There were arm warmers and jackets even on people, must have been the presence of Roger back to the group. Our ride was interesting and entertaining as always, with a slight detour for some of the pack because of a run/walk. I guess the lead group couldn't follow directions so the rest of us had to add more miles - ha - we got more miles than you. There were rabbits on the road, the real ones and those that tried to break away.

Ride Schedule

10/14 7:00AM - Ohcotukee loop. Head down the flat lands of Ocotillo and then the hills of Awahtukee. Mileage options of 25 flat, 35 with slight hills, or 50 with a lot more. Breakfast at Soma Cafe on Chandler Blvd & Kyrene.

10/21 7:00AM - Around the Mountain. Should be cool enough to do this route. All Flat 50 miles or you can turn around and do less. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co - Elliot & Kyrene.

10/28 7:00AM - To the Towers. Another car free day at South Mountain. Options of 35, 42, or 50 miles, with more hills as the miles go on. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. - Elliot & Kyrene.

In addition, there are several club events and rides:
October 13 (Sat) Memorial Ride for Safety
October 28 (Sun) 17th Annual Palo Verde Nuclear Century

October 6 Saturday Cycling Report

Breezy Romp to South Mountain Park

Added October 7, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 75 riders (less one who signed in and didn't pedal... ceremonial cyclist?) appear for our breezy romp to South Mountain Park this morning. For the riders who have joined the group over the summer, this first voyage out on the route after our summer hiatus from the climb was a grand adventure. The wind was a bit of a challenge at some points, but considering it was bringing us cool temps, nobody seemed to mind. The group got rather stretched out, depending on what route and speed were selected (and how fast you can change a flat tire) but that worked just fine by spreading the crowd out for the arrival at the breakfast spot.

Coming up...

Saturday 10/13/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain, original route, with options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with a couple of bonus climbs. Our traditional breakfast spot for this route, Brueggers, has for some reason closed their doors. (We certainly did our best to keep them in business over the years!) A new eats spot has yet to be determined, you'll just have to show up for the ride and be surprised.

Saturday 10/20/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We head to the northeast on the Tour de Mesa. Route options 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfsat at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock.

Tid bits

Even with the plethora of event rides already on the calendar, here's one you should add, cuz its just plain old goofy fun. Every year PMBC helps out with the Tempe Community Ride. The event is based out of our home field, Kiwanis Park, and draws people on bikes (future cyclists) from the local community. This year the ride will be held on Sunday October 28th. There is no fee for the event, plus there's lots of free stuff... tshirts, snackies, etc. A bike expo with all things bike related on display opens at 7:00am and the ride then departs at 8:30am. Route is about 16 miles, pace is gentle. PMBC will have a booth at the expo, giving away free air (woo hoo!) and we need as many club members adorned in their club jerseys as we can get there to meet and greet riders and to man (or woman) the air pumps. Members are then encouraged to join in the pedal, where we need lots of assistance with young riders and those new to cycling (or old to cycling and still learning!). Come join us!

Ride safe

September 29 Saturday Cycling Report

Stunning Sunrise and Slogging Through the Slurry

Added September 30, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 87 riders drawn out by the stunning sunrise this morning for our romp along McKellips. The roll up through Tempe was lovely, with the exception of slogging through the slurry in the not quite completed intersection of Curry & College. The cool breeze and bits of clouds made for a beauty of day for the rest of the roll, though. Even the flat stops seemed more enjoyable in the nice weather. Breakfast chatter at Einy's ranged from contemplation of whether you can still be a thug if you are riding an Orbea to just how much money you would spend if you entered every "ride for bucks" that is on the cycling calender for the rest of the year (which was a big number!).

Coming up...

Saturday 10/6/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We return to South Mountain after the summer break. Route options of 27 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing or 42 miles with lotsa climbing. Breakfast at Arizona Bread Co, southeast corner Kyrene and Elliot.

Saturday 10/13/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain, original route, with options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with a couple of bonus climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Saturday 10/20/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We head to the northeast on the Tour de Mesa. Route options 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfsat at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock.

Tid bits

Saturday Cycling differs in format from some of the other large weekly club rides in the state, in that we don't officially break our pack down into skill levels. All roll out together, map in pocket, each seeking their own spot in the line based on their current ability. This can seem a bit haphazard at times, but it offers a huge benefit not found in other groups, and that is the concept of learning from each other. When we are bunched together at the start or after one of our regroups, you can find yourself riding next to someone who is on their first group cycling adventure, or you could be riding shoulder to shoulder with a state championship racer. If you are on the beginning of that bell curve... watch, ask, listen. You are surrounded by coaches and teachers. A perfect example was demonstrated today. We rode through an intersection recently under construction, that had just been wetted down by a water truck. A number of the experienced riders dismounted and walked, or gently took to the sidewalk. Grasshoppers, why did they do that? Was the road slick? Well, a bit, but even the beginners had the bike handling skills to negotiate it. That wasn't why they showed such caution. It was the slurry. That water on the road was filled with ground up asphalt, which if gotten on your chain and gears, your drive system, it works just like pumice. If you rode through that and splatted it up on your bike, stop reading and go wash your bike, clean your chain thoroughly and relube it. Treat your bike and your body with care, they'll both last longer.

Ride safe

September 23 Spin Cycle Report

No Car Day on South Mountain

Added September 27, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 35 riders for a great day of riding. The weather was perfect for climbing south mountain and the no car day. Most made some attempt near or around the mountain, and then made the dash for breakfast at AZ Bread Co.

Ride Schedule

9/30 7:00 AM - Tour De Mesa. Mileage options of 35 flat or 45 with gentle climbs. Breakfast at Maui Wowi on Ray & Price.

10/7 7:00AM - Tempe Mountains. Mileage options of 38 flat or 45 rolling hills. Breakfast at Einstein's - Rural & Ray.

10/21 7:00AM - Around the Mountain. Should be cool enough to do this route. All Flat 50 miles or you can turn around and do less. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co - Elliot & Kyrene.

10/28 7:00AM - To the Towers. Another car free day at South Mountain. Options of 35, 42, or 50 miles, with more hills as the miles go on. Breakfast at AZ Bread Co. - Elliot & Kyrene.

In addition, there are several club events and rides:
October 13 (Sat) Memorial Ride for Safety
October 28 (Sun) 17th Annual Palo Verde Nuclear Century

September 22 Saturday Cycling Report

Pre-dawn Showers, Road Luge Trials, White Fly Plague

Added September 22, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Pre-dawn showers in Tempe and overcast skies at start time didn't deter 76 riders from appearing for our morning's adventure. Lots of new faces in the crowd as people start to prep for the big event rides coming up this fall. Our romp across Pecos was detoured by a road closure for the Jr Olympic trials for road luge. We had a few riders who wanted to switch sports for that stretch of the road, but something about hurtling down that incline at breakneck speed just a few inches off the asphalt seemed to change their minds. The rest of the route got a bit interesting, as we discovered Ahwatukee to be in the midst of a white fly plague. Our relief when it started raining, which we thought would squelch the buggers, was short lived as we found the change in weather just seemed to rile the little twits up. A mad dash was made for the breakfast stop, with many getting their protein fill in route.

Coming up...

Saturday 9/29/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Our favorite wind training ride, the McKellips Loop. Route options of 28 miles or 37 miles, one gentle climb. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock. (Note, if you are somewhere near the intersection of Curry & College towards the end of this week, please zip your rider leaderess an update regarding the ability, or lack thereof, to pass through that intersection northbound on this date.)

Saturday 10/6/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Cooler mornings beckon us to South Mountain. Route options of 27 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing or 42 miles with lotsa climbing. Breakfast at Arizona Bread Co, southeast corner Kyrene and Elliot.

Saturday 10/13/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. For those not riding in or working at the Ride For Safety, the home team will be safely heading north on the Mummy Mountain route. Options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with a couple of bonus climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits

Why do many citizens of the Ahwatukee Foothills area not like bicyclists? Hmm... could it be because so many cyclists ride like yahoos there? For years riders have pedaled in the area, ignoring the rules of the road, impeding traffic, and in general making life difficult for the residents who are themselves just trying to enjoy their Saturday morning. And now we are reaping the results of that. Guilt by association even for those who are riding right. We have a huge uphill (pun intended!) goal to work towards. A disciplined organized line of cyclists going by can be a sight to behold, an instant parade, gathering smiles and waves. Our goal is to set the standard, hoping that others will follow our lead.

Ride safe

PS A message being passed along from the back half of the pack to the front half. Thugs rule, big dogs drool. Don't shoot the messenger.

A Heartfelt "Thank You" From Margot Eldridge

Randy's Wife Expresses Her Appreciation to Members of PMBC

Added September 22, 2007

written by Margot Eldridge

September 21, 2007

Dear Sue and all members of the Phoenix Bicycle Club,

To say "THANK YOU" does not begin to express my appreciation for all you have done for our family since Randy's death. The flowers were beautiful and greatly appreciated. Your presence at the Memorial touched my heart beyond words. I felt so connected to all of you even though we had never met. You must know how much being a part of your group meant to Randy and how much you enhanced his life beyond measure.

Our family is shattered and we are doing our best to move ahead without him because that is the way he would want it to be. Randy was a true gentleman who only wanted to help people and never be recognized. Heaven is enriched today and our family is proud to have been part of his earthly journey. He would be embarrassed to know people had gone out of their way for him.

To all who rendered aid, we will be forever grateful knowing he was with friends. "THANK YOU" for your kindness, "THANK YOU" for your generosity and "THANK YOU" you for being at the service and our home. I so enjoyed talking with all of you and hope you will stay in touch. You will remain very special to our family. As we move into Randy's favorite time of year I will get a tear in my eye every time I pass a biker.

I now believe you find a deeper meaning of friendship when you experience a tragedy - "Thank You" for being my friend !

Randy will ride with you again one day, so until that time HAVE A WONDERFUL RIDE

Love,

Margot Eldridge

Memorial Donations for Randy Eldridge

Added September 22, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Last week some one asked if there was a charity or something along those lines that Randy Eldridge supported, that memorial donations could be made to in his name. The answer to that question is yes. For many years he has been supporting a girl's home over in Mesa. His daughter Carla Owers is on the board there and she sends the following note:

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

"This is a girls' home in Mesa where I am on the Board of Directors. I have been a part of them almost since the beginning 10 years ago and my dad was always a big supporter of my involvement with them. We know that he would really like the fact that donations were going there. They are a small organization, but local and any help is always welcome."

Here is the contact info:

A&A Cottages
PO Box 2992
Mesa, AZ 85214-2992
In the name of Randy Eldridge
www.aacottages.org

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

Also, if you would like to send a note to the family thru Carla Owers, write away. They would love to hear any Randy stories you want to share, or just hear from you in regards to how much you enjoyed Randy being a part of our group.

Hugs--

Sue

Invite to Ride Through Petrified Forest National Park

See the World's Largest Collection of Fossilized Trees

Added September 22, 2007

written by Jan Peterson

Come ride and hike with us!
Petrified Forest National Park
and
The Painted Desert
October 6 & 7, 2007

See the world's largest and most colorful collection of fossilized trees millions of years old. The Petrified Forest National Park stretches north and south between Interstate 40 and Highway 180.

We are going to ride from the south entrance to the north end, have lunch, and ride back to the south end where our cars are parked! The ride is about 30 miles each way, hilly, little traffic, and paved roads. Awesome scenery throughout the ride: many beautiful stops with sweeping vistas, fantastic geological formations, hiking trails, and two museums.

The plan is to drive up to Holbrook on Friday afternoon, Oct 5th and stay at a local motel. Saturday morning, we'll drive to the south entrance of the Park and leave on the ride between 7 and 7:30am (Park opens at 7am). We'll ride up to the north end, eat at the restaurant, and ride back to the cars. At least one spouse will help sag and more are welcome! There are several nice park restrooms along the ride.

Native ruins include Puerco Pueblo Ruins along the road on a mesa overlooking the Puerco River. The Ruins consist of about 100 masonry rooms around a plaza and over 800 petroglyphs. One of the kivas and 25 rooms have been excavated. It was occupied about 1000 – 600 years ago.

A mile south of the ruins is Newspaper Rock, several large boulders with numerous rock art figures. These meandering lines of humans, animals, footprints, and clan symbols may be a record of the migrations of people and animals through the area.

A small pueblo on a promontory, the Agate House, was built entirely out of chunks of colorful agatized/petrified wood. Two of the rooms have been restored.

Bring your own gear, water, and snacks. Riding is moderately difficult. A side benefit is that we might have one of the Park Rangers ride with us and give us a personal tour!

We will stay in Holbrook Saturday night and go back to the park on Sunday, Oct 7, to go hiking! It's truly a beautiful area in Northern Arizona.

For details and places in Holbrook where we'll stay, contact either
Jan Peterson – 480-802-9488 or
Mary Ellen Coe – 480-491-5473.

For park details, go to the website: http://www.nps.gov/pefo/index.htm.

(Note: This is not a PMBC sponsored ride.)

September 15 Saturday Cycling Report

St. Francis Loop and Free Food attracts 90 Riders

Added September 15, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The siren song of free food brought us 90 riders to the start this morning. We managed to duck the start of the Duck Dump or whatever they call the charity event that involves floating rubber duckies in the park lake, and we were off. Our romp around the St. Francis Loop was a little challenging, since the intersection of Curry & 68th has been temporarily demolished, but most managed to find some suitable creative detour to dodge it. Our breakfast wranglers back at the park had a beautiful spread set up by our return (thanks Jay, Nancy O and Bub!) and the masses managed to plow their way through most of it. We were joined at the park by some Sun Lakers and a couple of our walking wounded and a few that apparently just prefer sleeping in.

Coming up...

Saturday 9/22/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. AhwaFooty, with options of 24 miles with one gentle climbing or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Arizona Bread Co, southeast corner Kyrene and Elliot.

Saturday 9/29/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Our favorite wind training ride, the McKellips Loop. Route options of 28 miles of 37 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock.

Saturday 10/6/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. With the heat hopefully behind us, we return to South Mountain. Route options of 27 miles with a bit of gentle climbing or 40 miles with moderate climbing or 42 miles with lotsa climbing. Breakfast at Arizona Bread Co, southeast corner Kyrene and Elliot.

Tid bits

We are closing in on having 400 members in Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club. We have no paid staff, which means that everything we do, every weekly club ride, every event ride, every breakfast.... anything that happens that is club related... does so by way of volunteerism. We want you to participate. See the newsletter and the website ( www.sportsfun.com/gaba ) for events that are coming up. Specifically we need assistance with:
Ride For Safety on Saturday October 13th. Contact Bob Beane.
Free Ride on Saturday December 1st. Contact Glen Fletcher.
Casa Grande Century on Sunday January 6th. Contact Jane Larson.

If you did not attend the membership meeting this morning, we signed you up for something.

Ride safe

Thank You from Randy's Family

Club's Presence Truly Honored Randy's Memory

Added September 9, 2007

written by Pete Eldridge

Dear Friends,

I came to my office this Sunday night to do some catching up after a long and difficult week; but instead of working I found myself reading, for at least the hundredth time, the notices on the GABA website concerning my brother Randy and his passing on September 1st. I cannot begin tell you what the pictures that were posted and the words that written have meant to me. I knew Randy loved to ride but I now know one reason he loved it so much was the people he got to ride with.

The presence of your members at the funeral in your jerseys literally took my breath away. To see so many people, and such a diversity of people, spoke well for your club and truly honored Randy's memory. Please let the rest of the club members know how grateful, thankful, and humbled we are because of what your club and its members have done for our family.

And please convey a special thanks to Leon Smith and all those who cared for Randy in his last moments.

With Most Sincere Thanks,

Pete Eldridge

September 8 Saturday Cycling Report

An Eclectic Pack of 91 Cyclists on Tour de Mesa

Added September 9, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

For some of our 91 cyclists this morning, just locating sign-in was the first challenge of the day. There was a large crowd of very intense looking runners in our regular spot. On the rare occasion that we get bumped out of our traditional parking lot at Kiwanis, look for us in the over-flow lot that is a block south of there. We eventually got the herd together and rolled out to the east, rapidly spreading out along Guadalupe Road by natural selection... they who kept air in their tires became the lead riders. The morning warmed up quick and several stops were made to restock on ice. A question came up at breakfast about the broad age range of the group today. The answer was our most junior rider of the morn was 16 years old and the oldest... well, let's just say 80ish. Now that is an eclectic pack!

Coming up...

Saturday 9/15/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Time for our quarterly membership breakfast ride and meeting. For our new club members, this is the same as any other Saturday adventure, except your breakfast is free! If you have not yet joined PMBC, click for details on membership. The route will be the St. Francis Loop, which is a romp around the hills of north Tempe and south Scottsdale, either 26 miles or 36 miles, both with moderate climbing (so you can earn that free breakfast!) Breakfast location is right back at Kiwanis Park, at the large group ramadas just southeast of the parking lot we meet in. If you are joining us at the park just for the get together, aim to arrive at about 9:00pm. Non-members are welcome to join us for breakfast for $5.

Saturday 9/22/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We'll attempt a return to our rained out romp on the AhwaFooty route. Options of 24 miles with one gentle climbing or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Arizona Bread Co, southeast corner Kyrene and Elliot.

Tid bits

Members of our club often express that they wish their other half (spouse, significant other, boyfriend, girlfriend, etc) would take up cycling and join them on our adventures. The flip side of that is a typical conversation held with one of our female riders today. She commented that her guy becomes impatient if she rides too slow, stutters getting into her cleats, etc. It's rare for both sides of a relationship to be equal as athletes and our group works perfectly in regards to that disparity. Come to the event together, then seek your own path. If your sweetie likes to hammer in the lead group, let her go strut her stuff while you enjoy the companionship of others in the rear of the group. If your guy's idea of a good ride is riding so hard he sees stars and your idea of perfection is a gentle glow on the brow followed by kicking back at the bagel shop to watch the world go by, we've got what you both are seeking. Riding " together" doesn't have to be literal, unless you're on a tandem, in which case you just do what the gal on the team wants to do and everything will be just fine. :-)

Ride safe

September 2 Spin Cycle Report

28 Riders on Tour de Scottsdale

Added September 3, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 28 riders for our Sunday ride. Thanks again to Neal for leading the group and also for the way he communicated and handled the prior days bad news. For those that do not know, one of our regular Sunday Spin Cycle riders & PMBC member Randy Eldridge passed away on Saturday's ride. Many of us have known Randy, and benefited from his warm friendship, great draft, lending a hand during a flat, or riding with someone not going as fast as the rest of the group. I personally will miss him, his smiling face, and the rides he provided back to my home when it was too hot or cold.

See Notices for the details on his services to be held on Wednesday, September 5th.

Ride Schedule

9/9 - Tempe Mountains. See the mountains in Tempe. Mileage options of 38 with little climbing of 45 with more. Breakfast at Soma Cafe on Chandler Blvd & Kyrene.

9/16 - Tour Around Mummy with the original added in for spice. Mileage options of 35 with minor climbing, 40 with gentle climbs and 50 with a lot of climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's on Rural & Ray.

9/23 - South Mountain. Roads are closed to traffic, so we'll head on up. Mileage options of 30 with minor climbing, 42 with gentle climbing and 50 with a lot of climbing. Breakfast at Arizona Bread Company on Elliot & Kyrene.

9/30 - Tour de Mesa. Mileage options of 35 flat or 45 with gentle climbs. Breakfast at Maui Wowi on Ray & Price.

September 1 Saturday Cycling Report

Mummy Mountain Under Overcast Skies

Added September 1, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The temptation of pedaling in cool(er) morning air under overcast skies brought us 90 cyclists for our romp north today. Lots of new riders, bringing us new enthusiam and fresh perspective on a route that we all love sharing with the uninitiated. Thanks to Ron Waller for helping with the rear of the herd on the roll out to the first regroup.

Coming up...

Monday 9/3/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. A holiday adventure! If you are free to ride, come on down to the park and join us for Pylant's Pedal. One mapped route of approximately 30 miles in the Ahwatukee Foothills area (or seek your own path) with a couple of not too steep hills. Breakfast at the southwest corner of Ray & 54th, at either 5&Diner or Paradise Bakery.

Saturday 9/8/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Mesa takes on a loop to the northeast and back in thru down town Mesa, for a view of the ever changing public art to be found there. Options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einsteins, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Saturday 9/15/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Time for our quarterly membership breakfast ride and meeting. For our new club members, this is the same as any other Saturday adventure... except your breakfast is free! If you have not yet joined PMBC, head to the website for details on membership. The route will be the St. Francis Loop, which is a romp around the hills of north Tempe and south Scottsdale, either 26 miles or 36 miles, both with moderate climbing (so you can earn that free breakfast!) Breakfast location is right back at Kiwanis Park, at the large group ramadas just southeast of the parking lot we meet in. If you are joining us at the park just for the get together, aim to arrive at about 9:00pm. Non-members are welcome to join us for breakfast for $5.

Tid bits

We rolled out of the park today with 90 souls, but returned with only 89. Randy Eldridge, long time PMBC member, collapsed a few miles past our first regroup on the route towards Mummy Mountain. EMTs were summoned, but in route to the hospital his heart gave out and though over the top efforts were made, they were unable to revive him. To Leon Smith aka Captain America, who rendered aid at the scene, giving Randy a chance if a chance was going to be had, thank you. As soon as details are available regarding services, an announcement will go out to the SatCycling contact list and appear on the website.

Your lesson today is one you have been taught many times over, grasshoppers. Life is short. Live every moment completely. Hug your friends every time you see them.

Ride safe

August 26 Spin Cycle Report

Nice Rotating Paceline During the Milk Run

Added August 29, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 37 riders last week. Thanks to Neal for leading the group. After a rocky start (no pun intended), I heard the majority of the group had a nice rotating paceline. Also, Ron and Tyler get flat head awards, they will do anything to get their name in the newsletter. Below is the ride schedule for the month.

REMEMBER - STARTING THIS SUNDAY WE MOVE OUR START TIME TO 7:00AM

Ride Schedule

9/2 - Tour de Scottsdale. Mileage options of 40 or 44 miles, all flat. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on Rural & Ray.

9/9 - Tempe Mountains. See the mountains in Tempe. Mileage options of 38 with little climbing of 45 with more. Breakfast at Soma Cafe on Chandler Blvd & Kyrene.

9/16 - Tour Around Mummy with the original added in for spice. Mileage options of 35 with minor climbing, 40 with gentle climbs and 50 with a lot of climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's on Rural & Ray.

9/30 - Tour de Mesa. Mileage options of 35 flat or 45 with gentle climbs. Breakfast at Maui Wowi on Ray & Price.

Lastly, you can view our monthly newsletter for September's edition on the the PMBC website.

August 25 Saturday Cycling Report

A River Ran Through It

Added August 26, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

A river ran through it. Complete with white caps. And lightening popped over it. That would be the parking lot in Kiwanis Park shortly before start time today. A heavy thurnderstorm lingering over the east valley at sunrise this morning resulted in a rare weather cancel of our Saturday morning romp. Rain we'll take on, but riding with bazillion mega watt bolts zapping around you tends to deter most riders. A few drove through to view the newly formed Kiwanis Rapids, with a handful then going on to breakfast at USEgg. The rest went on to do what ever people do with their Saturdays if they don't ride bicycles.

Coming up...

Saturday 9/1/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! We move up our start time to avoid the morning chill (?) and celebrate the start of our fall season with the Mummy Mountain route. Options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with a few extra hills. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner of Mill & 11th.

Monday 9/3/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Buddy's brigade invites all to join in Pylant's Pedal. On Sunday mornings, you could often find Buddy Pylant romping in the Ahwatukee area, following a course favored by him and the rest of his thugs. If you are off for the holiday, come join us on a joy filled jaunt in memory of Buddy. One route of approximately 30 miles, which will be a mix of our original Ahwatukee route with a bit of the Wednesday nighter's romp tossed in. Breakfast at the southwest corner of Ray & 54th, at either 5&Diner or Paradise Bakery. Excessive and loud talking will be required.

Tid bits

Two bits. This first issue we talked about earlier this year, but will keep bringing it up until everybody learns the dance steps. When you get on your bike, whether to go to the corner store or to ride a century, carry ID. Have it on your body or at the very least in a jersey pocket. If your ID is in your hydration pack, you are often seperated from it if you have an accident. If you conk your noggin' and can't tell others who you are and who to call, what do you have on you that will do that job? Dog tags, bracelets, shoe tags, ID card in a jersey pocket, cellphone programed with an ICE (In Case of Emergency number), those are the things that will be searched for if you can't speak up. No one plans on being in an accident, and that is the point.

And second, as we roll into our fall and winter season our start times will adjust as the months go by to keep us in daylight (which was a bit lacking this morning!). For our newbies and as a reminder to our regular riders, please note the following for our adventures yet to come:

Sept/Oct 7:00am
November 7:30am
December 8:00am
January 8:30am
February 8:00am
March 7:30am

Ride safe

August 18 Saturday Cycling Report

89 Riders Discover Waffle Textured Bike Lane on "Length of Lindsay"

Added August 18, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 89 riders appear for our romp to the east this morning. Included in the herd were a couple of celebrity riders from New Mexico (Bill and Sharon, it was great to see you both again!) and a lot of regular riders returning from summer cycling adventures hither and yon. The roll down Lindsay was made interesting (?) by having the bike lane and most of the right traffic lane waffle textured for several miles. Hopefully this means that at some future date we will have new smooth as glass surface in place along there. Breakfast chatter ranged from discussing the vacation that the Kirk's bikes took without them when they got lost as airline luggage (the bikes, not the Kirks) to the discovery of chocolate cheese as a food source at a rest stop on a ride in Wisconsin.

Coming up...

Saturday 8/25/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. We head southwest on the AhwaFooty route. Route options 25 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at the AZ Bread Co, southeast corner of Elliot & Kyrene.

Tid bits

The view from the rear. Trailing the group every Saturday morning (leading like Napolean), gives your ride leader an interesting perspective of the pack. It's rewarding and yet at the same time incredibly frustrating. The fun parts are getting to meet our new riders, assisting and encouraging them. Getting to dilly-dally along, moving from flat tire to flat tire, rendering assistance if needed, but more often just basically lolly-gagging, enjoying the day and the company of friends. The frustration comes in looking up the road, and seeing our pack in motion, appearing nothing like the skilled riders they could, and should, be. And the term "skilled" has nothing at all to do with speed. We have skilled riders who turn out every week and hold a pace of 15mph the entire ride. Being able to ride fast and riding correctly, legally, safely... are two entirely different subjects. When in the SatCycling pack, you will:

Ride no more than two riders side by side, tight to the right side of the road. If by riding two by two you are impeding traffic, drop to single file.
When traffic lights turn red, you will stop, you will wait until the light turns green, and then proceed.
You will treat the the convenience stores we stop at like your mom's kitchen... clean up after yourself.

We are a large, high profile community organization. No one rider is worth risking the reputation of our club and the safety of our pack. If you don't want to ride legally and safely, you have selected the wrong group to join and we would be glad to point you in the direction of some of the yahoo race training groups around town. (Let's see how many ranting emails that line generates from our racing members!)

Ride safe

August 12 Spin Cycle Report

Record Heat on McKellips Loop

Added August 13, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 25 riders take on the heat. Did you know Phoenix broke a heat record yesterday? Those that rode can attest to the record, which brings up a good point when biking in the summer, fluids, fluids, and more fluids. As far as the ride goes, I guess the ride leader needs to look at his own map for directions, with Bill the only one doing the proper route. The pack broke into a couple of groups along the way because of a stop light, and then witnessed a bizarre event at our second regroup in Mesa. Last but not least, we did try the new restaurant on Chandler & Kyrene, Soma Cafe, and it was good. Randy and Mark tried the 10lbs of pancakes, with Mark taking the honors of pancake king.

Ride Schedule

8/19 - 6:30 AM - Metro Mania - Hit the cities and towns of the east valley. Mileage options of 36 or 45 miles, mostly flat. Breakfast at Einstein's on Rural & Ray.

8/26 - 6:30 AM - Milk Run - See the old dairy farms, or what is left. Mileage options of 36, 38, 40, or 44 flat miles. Breakfast at Wildflower in the Chandler Mall.

August 11 Saturday Cycling Report

67 Riders Brave the Hot Humid Morning for Tour de Sue

Added August 12, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 67 riders brave the hot humid morning for our romp to the south. Our roll out down Kyrene kept us away from the contruction on 56th Street, but instead put us going over the bike eating diagonal tracks at Elliott and the challenging old fashioned speed bumps at the southern end of Kyrene. (We'll never complain about the newly designed low impact speed humps again!) The roll across the bottom of the loop, into the sun to the east, was toasty and dusty, resulting in some of the riders appearing at breakfast looking like cyclo-cross contestants instead of we-don't-do-dirt road riders. Einy's newly designed interior and revamped ordering system seemed to make for a smooth flow of getting everybody served, but those who managed to snag seats inside in the a/c didn't seem to be in any hurry to leave anyway.

Coming up...

Saturday 8/18/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The Length of Lindsay takes us east, with route options of 27 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at the Chandler Mall, your choice of Wildflower or Ruby's Diner.

Saturday 8/25/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. We head southwest on the AhwaFooty route. Route options 25 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Since Kasha's can't figure out of they want to be opened or closed, we'll head down the street to the AZ Bread Co, southeast corner of Elliot & Kyrene.

Tid bits

The plethora of event rides that are coming up this fall takes a lot of people who are NOT riding to make them happen. PMBC will again be staffing a rest stop along the route of the Safety Ride and we need some assist. The date of the ride is Saturday October 13th and we need a few volunteers to host the stop. For details on what is involved and to sign up, contact Bob Beane. If you can't be riding in an event, the next best thing is running a stop where you can talk to everybody who is riding and exercise quality control by sampling the snacks yourself, and you don't have to pay an entry fee!

Ride safe

August 4 Saturday Cycling Report

63 Riders and Chance of Showers on Mummy Mountain Route

Added August 6, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Thanks to Ron Waller for leading the home pack on Saturday. He advises there were 63 riders, which was pretty good considering there was a chance of showers and there were some dribbles (?) in the area at the start time. One rider (who shall remain nameless but maybe should have bought new tires as his souvenirs in France instead of bringing home road rash) managed to have three flats during the morning's romp. Little is known about the breakfast conversation as our fearless ride leader broke his stem during the ride and managed to triumphantly appear at the food stop after everybody was done.

Coming up...

Saturday 8/11/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Tour de Sue, in reverse. We head south, with options on either Queen Creek or Riggs. Mileage either 25 or 35 miles, no climbing. Correction on the breakfast stop for this ride, we'll be eating at Einsteins, northwest corner of McClintock and Guadalupe.

Saturday 8/18/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The Length of Lindsay head us over to the east, with route options of 27 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at the Chandler Mall, at either Wildflower or Ruby's Diner.

Tid bits

We just started August, but it's time to think about the fall season of riding that is rapidly bearing down on us. If you are doing Tour de Tucson, get your registration in (the fees rise the longer you wait) and get hotel reservations made if you are staying a night for that ride. This is a big year for that event, with other bike related things going on there the same weekend, and the town is going to be booked up early.

Ride safe

July 21 Saturday Cycling Report

Temps Down but Humidity Up on Tour de Lehi

Added July 29, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 74 cyclists head out for our ride over into Mesa today. The on and off overcast kept the temp down a little, but the humidity made for a rather drippy ride. For those who slowed down enough to take it in, Lehi was the usual mix of interesting flora and fauna. The zip back in across Rio Salado still makes for a good romp, but the incredible number of new stores popping up along there makes us ponder what the traffic will be like in that area in the near future. Breakfast chatter ranged from the excitement building about the Race of Attrition (AKA the Tour de France) to even greater excitement about what the morning temp will be next Saturday for those attending the club's ride in Flagstaff.

Coming up...

Saturday 8/4/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain, offering route options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with a few extra climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner of Mill and 11th.

Saturday 8/11/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Tour de Sue, in reverse. We head south, with options on either Queen Creek or Riggs. Mileage either 25 or 35 miles, no climbing (unless you count the freeway over pass?). Breakfast at WildFlower, Chandler Mall.

Tid bits

Our Saturday pack is an all levels group ride. That means we have new and/or unskilled riders in the company of experienced and somewhat more skilled cyclists. The concept is that those needing knowledge and having the want to learn will gain it by observing the riders around them. We have some outstanding people in the group, a huge resource to draw on... retired pro-riders, state champions, active local team racers. We haven't taken the step of highlighting our skilled riders, but you can probably pick them out in the crowd. They are the ones who ride a smooth, straight line. They hold their position in the gaggle as we roll around corners. They know their front wheel is their life, always aware of where it is in relation to other riders and what road surface they are letting it encounter. We are a rolling classroom, if you're open to the lessons being offered.

Ride safe

July 22 Spin Cycle Report

Larger than Expected Group for Tempe Mountains

Added July 24, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

Thanks to Randy for leading the ride on Sunday, below is his ride report. For some strange reason we had a larger than expected group of 25 riders for the Tempe Mountains and its 2 HC category climbs. (Anything to do with the fact that many riders knew most of Spin Cycle lead GC riders were doing the White Mountains?) Hard to report anything happened because I lead from the back and last saw everyone at the 1st regroup. When four of us arrived for breakfast no riders were to be seen. We had two days of great weather (some humidity).

Ride Schedule

7/29 6:30 AM - Ohcotukee Loop - Head down Ocotillo and then to Awahtukee with options of 35, 40, or 55 miles, with the last two having climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

Other news - Every Saturday during July we will be having the Tour de France watch party. Come watch the Tour de France every Saturday after the ride at CK's Tavern and Grill in Phoenix (Ahwatukee) (address below - 40th Street & Chandler) Watch the primo riders of the world do their thing. Every Saturday in July, immediately following SatCycling's morning ride, we will gather some where to eat, drink, and cheer for whoever and during the last day on Sunday July 29th. Oh yea, this is not a byod (bring your own drink) establishment, apparently someone in the crowd brought their own drink...

CK's Tavern And Grill
4142 E. Chandler Blvd. #105
Phoenix, AZ 85048
www.ckgrill.com

July 21 Saturday Cycling Report

A Bit Humid Tour de Mesa

Added July 22, 2007

Updated July 24, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Thanks are extended to our ride leaders for the last two weeks, Ron Waller and Ken St. John. (And thanks to the pack for being easy on the "substitute teachers"!) The romp on the 7th was hot and humid, but that didn't squelch the enthusiasm of the 80+ riders who turned out for the loop up through Tempe. With some minor mechanic work employed along the way, most managed to find their way over hill and dale and back to the bagel shop. Last Saturday we had 79 riders head for the hills of Ahwatukee, with the unexpected assistance of Rick Marquis at Javelina Cycles providing much needed water and Gatorade. (Thanks, Rick... definitely a full service bike shop!) The breakfasting went a bit awry on the discovery of Kasha's being closed but, being cyclists, other food sources were quickly scouted out.

This morning the draw of the White Mountain Tour and the rain at dawn across the southern part of the valley reduced the heard to 47 riders. Those that did appear headed out into what turned into a lovely (ok... a bit humid) morning to ride. Breakfast chatter at Einy's of course involved gossiping about anybody who had not turned out to ride with us.

Coming up...

Saturday 7/28/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Keeping it short but sweet (a description of many of the gals in our pack?), we head out to Lehi. Route options of 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th. The reason for the quick romp is... the following!

Saturday 7/28/07 11:30am to 1:30pm, CK's Tavern & Grill. Our last Saturday afternoon gathering for watching of the Tour de France! Located on Chandler Blvd, a block west of 44th St, on the north side of the road. This place offers great service and good food. Blend that with grand company and watching pro-bike racing, and you have the makings of a most excellent get together. Come cheer on who ever wears the yellow jersey by that point!

Tid bits

As some of you have now heard, we lost one of our own yesterday. Buddy Pylant passed away in his sleep Friday morning. Buddy has been a member of PMBC for many years, most recently serving as a ride leader for our Mining Country ride earlier this year. That service was a reflection of the life he led, having served our country in the military, served his community many times over as a volunteer for the MS Society, and having served his family and friends with a loyalty rare in today's world. When details are available regarding a service, etc... we'll send an email out to the club and post notice on the club's website.

Buddy Pylant (center) at July 14th, 2007 Saturday Cycling Ride
Buddy Pylant (center, in green jersey) at the July 14th, 2007 Saturday Cycling Ride with Charlie Davis and Bill Davisson. Buddy passed away in his sleep Friday morning, July 20, 2007.

Ride safe

PS To Buddy, where ever you are, may the roads be clear of thorns and glass, and always be downhill with a tailwind. Hold us a spot in the line. We miss you already.

July 15 Spin Cycle Report

Halfway Around the Mountain Heat Fest

Added July 20, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 22 riders for Sunday's heat fest, and I don't think anyone was disappointed. The ride half way around was long and hot, especially the ride back on Queen Creek and the farm land. It made the breakfast stop that much more appreciated, unless you lock your bike, your wife's bike, and another couples tandem together and can't get the lock off. Good thing Tina decided to get involved and break them away. Other than that, another good day of riding and enjoying the company of good friends.

Ride Schedule

7/22 6:30 AM - Tempe Mountains - Mileage options of 38 with minor climbing and 45 with more climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

7/29 6:30 AM - Ohcotukee Loop - Head down Ocotillo and then to Awahtukee with options of 35, 40, or 55 miles, with the last two having climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

CK's Tavern And Grill
4142 E. Chandler Blvd. #105
Phoenix, AZ 85048
www.ckgrill.com

Lastly - don't forget to sign up for the White Mountain Tour in the cool mountains for July 21st & 22nd.

July 8 Spin Cycle Report

21 Riders See the Many Sites Along Metro Mania

Added July 12, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 21 riders show up, some later than others to see the many sites along Metro Mania. A couple of flats to slow things down so we could enjoy the heat. Speaking of which, this is a good reminder for everyone to ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, not only during the ride, but prior to and afterwards. Our sprint/climbing points for today's ride were highly contested, with Steve getting the green jersey after utilizing his well oiled (or was that sweat) domestiques to block the rest of the gruppetos. There was a breakaway for the earlier sprint points, but apparently that rider was so fast, the rest of the group just didn't see him. Wow, what an amazing rider.

Ride Schedule

7/15 6:30 AM - Half Way around the mountain - Do the flat out and back around South Mountain with options of 20 or 45 miles. Breakfast at Wildflower at the Chandler Mall.

7/22 6:30 AM - Tempe Mountains - Mileage options of 38 with minor climbing and 45 with more climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

7/29 6:30 AM - Ohcotukee Loop - Head down Ocotillo and then to Awahtukee with options of 35, 40, or 55 miles, with the last two having climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

CK's Tavern And Grill
4142 E. Chandler Blvd. #105
Phoenix, AZ 85048
www.ckgrill.com

Lastly - don't forget to sign up for the White Mountain Tour in the cool mountains for July 21st & 22nd.

July 1 Spin Cycle Report

27 Riders Take On the McKellips Wind Tunnel and the Heat

Added July 4, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 27 riders take on the wind tunnel of McKellips and the heat. 26 of the riders made it, with one blowing a tire early on, but he eventually met up with the group to pose as a horse's A or was that a bear's A? The heat was in definite force today, but the call of omelets and sausage at Bogies Club house kept the group going. Only other interesting comment of the day was talking about a few of our brittle riders, or least how old some look.

Ride Schedule

7/4 6:30 AM - Come celebrate the 4th of July with your red, white, and blue at Desert Breeze Park. We'll do Tour of Queen Creek, with several mileage options from 25, 35, 38, 40, 44, or 50 flat miles. Breakfast at Wildflower at the Chandler Mall.

7/8 6:30 AM - The second day of the Tour de France, we'll do Metro Mania. Mileage options of 36 or 45 miles, with some climbing on the longer route. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on Ray & Rural.

7/15 6:30 AM - Half Way around the mountain - Do the flat out and back around South Mountain with options of 20 or 45 miles. Breakfast at Wildflower at the Chandler Mall.

7/22 6:30 AM - Tempe Mountains - Mileage options of 38 with minor climbing and 45 with more climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

7/29 6:30 AM - Ohcotukee Loop - Head down Ocotillo and then to Awahtukee with options of 35, 40, or 55 miles, with the last two having climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

CK's Tavern And Grill
4142 E. Chandler Blvd. #105
Phoenix, AZ 85048
www.ckgrill.com

Lastly - don't forget to sign up for the White Mountain Tour in the cool mountains for July 21st & 22nd.

June 30 Saturday Cycling Report

Research to Oak Route Tempted 95 Riders Into the Warm Morning

Added June 30, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Our wandering romp round town tempted 95 riders out into the warm morning. The ramble through the neighborhoods for the first few miles gave us some great views of the lakes (ponds?) in the research park and horses and custom homes in south Tempe. The top of the loop on the long route brought on a bit of chaos, with the canal crossing on Oak currently disguised behind a construction zone. (For those that missed it... there is a really nice bridge behind that fence!) Breakfast chatter at Einy's ranged from extending congrats to our Senior Olympics champion Ann Chadwick for her apparent sweep of all the 4th place ribbons available at the event this year (way to go, Annie!) to wondering how BusMan and Nimrod managed to survive rooming together for a couple of nights at the event.

Coming up...

Wednesday 7/4/07 6:30am Desert Breeze Park. Come celebrate the 4th of July with your red, white, and blue at Desert Breeze Park in Chandler (southwest of McClintock and Ray, meet at the train station). Our Sunday group SpinCycle hosts all from their start point, with the Tour of Queen Creek. A little something for everybody, with mileage options of 25, 35, 38, 40, 44, or 50 flat miles. Breakfast at Wildflower at the Chandler Mall.

Saturday 7/7/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. On the luckiest day of the year, we'll romp around town on the St. Francis Loop. Route options 26 miles or 36 miles, both with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Saturday 7/14/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Our u-pick-it route, AhwaFooty. If you follow the map, 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's, southeast corner Elliot & Priest.

Saturday 7/21/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Tour de Mesa takes us to the northeast, with route options of 29 miles with no climbing or 39 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Einsteins, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock.

Tid bits

The Tour is upon us. That would be THE tour... the Tour de France. The last few years our club has made a habit of gathering together on Saturday afternoons to watch the primo riders of the world do their thing. We will be doing so again this year, but just haven't quite finalized the details yet... like where and when. Every Saturday in July, immediately following SatCycling's morning ride, we will gather some where to eat, drink, and cheer for who ever. Check the club's website later this week for confirmed details of the when and where.

Ride safe

P.S. Your intrepid ride reporter is taking a two week sabbatical, so the next amazing installment of this weekly missive will not appear until 7/21. If you want to know what happens on the rides between now and then, show up and pedal.

June 24 Spin Cycle Report

A Rather Quiet and Relaxed Tour de Lindsay

Added June 24, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 34 riders today. Last week, we had 40 riders according to Neal, so thanks again for leading the "EPIC" ride as Sue called it around Mummy. Oh, by the way, I heard someone had a flat at McDowell & 68th last Sunday, and we have the pump that was left. Contact me for information and ransom demands. Today's ride was rather quiet if you know what I mean, and very relaxed. We had several new riders in Bob, Juan, and another Bob and Virgina. Tony gets the spoke award, breaking two in consecutive days, but still managed to catch the group at the second regroup. Breakfast was entertaining as usual, with Jim embarrassing Mike, and if you know Mike, you know how hard that can be. Good thing Nancy was there to hear it all.

Ride Schedule

7/1 6:30 AM - First day of July - McKellupe Loop or the Mckellips Loop. Mileage options of 34, 39, or 50 miles. Breakfast at Bogies Clubhouse on Rural & Guadalupe.

7/8 6:30 AM - The second day of the Tour de France, we'll do Metro Mania. Mileage options of 36 or 45 miles, with some climbing on the longer route. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on Ray & Rural.

7/15 6:30 AM - Half Way around the mountain - do the flat out and back around South Mountain with options of 20 or 45 miles. Breakfast at Wildflower at the Chandler Mall.

7/22 6:30 AM - Tempe Mountains - mileage options of 38 with minor climbing and 45 with more climbing. Breakfast at Bruegger Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

7/29 6:30 AM - Ohcotukee Loop - head down Ocotillo and then to Awahtukee with options of 35, 40, or 55 miles, with the last two having climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers Bagels on Chandler & Rural.

June 23 Saturday Cycling Report

84 Riders Show for Mummy Despite Heat Advisory

Added June 25, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Apparently the draw of the Mummy route trumped the heat advisory, with 84 riders turning out in the already warm parking lot this morning. The romp north was interspersed with a few flat tires as we rolled along the glass strewn streets post-Friday night partying in Tempe. Some of our newer riders took on the challenge of the long route, with varying levels of success, but all seemed to enjoy the beauty of the views once they managed to get to the tops of the climbs (when the spots in their vision from oxygen deprivation cleared). The roll back into town resulted in one less pigeon for the city of Scottsdale (the bird zigged when it should have zagged). The bird whacker felt bad about the incident, so we all lied and said he just winged it. We will, of course, call him BK (BirdKiller) from this day forward.

Coming up...

Saturday 6/30/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The Research to Oak route takes us on a clockwise loop around town, with 31 miles short route (no climbing) or 38 miles on the long route with some moderate climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Wednesday 7/4/07 6:30am Desert Breeze Park. For those asking, yes, the club is (of course!) holding a holiday ride on this date. Our Sunday group SpinCycle hosts all from their start point, which is Desert Breeze Park in Chandler. That is south of Ray, between McClintock and Rural, meeting point is the train station. They are still working out the details but rumor has it they will be headed to the southeast and will eat someplace back near the park. A couple of route options will be offered up, so no matter what your ability level, get yourself to the park.

Saturday 7/14/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Our u-pick-it romp, Ahwafooty. If you follow the map, 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's, southeast corner Elliot & Priest.

Tid bits

On Saturday mornings, on the flip side of your route map, you are handed the guidelines for our group rides. A pretty short list, most of them are just common sense. We have those guidelines to keep our romps safe for you, and for others around you. If you are in motion on your bike in the parking lot, you must have a helmet on your head and have it buckled. Is the asphalt in the parking lot some kind of softer version than out on the street? No. If you fumble your pedals in the parking lot and fall, big ouchie. If you are riding around other cyclists and have headphones on, you can not hear warning calls, such as "car-back" or "slowing" or "heads up cuz I'm going to smack into you", resulting in a big ouchie. If you use a cellphone while riding a bike, it unplugs your brain, just like when you try to drive a car while on a phone. You will do strange and unpredictable things, resulting in... a big ouchie to you and sometimes other riders around you. For any community to work well together, all must agree to abide by certain guidelines for the benefit of the whole. Be a good neighbor in the pack.

Ride safe

June 16 Saturday Cycling Report

Mechanicals on McKellips Loop

Added June 16, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Apparently a number of our members were still too full after last Saturday's breakfast feast to pedal today, with our morning herd reduced to "only" 82 riders. Our romp to the northeast resulted in a couple of interesting mechanical issues, like somebody having a crank come completely off and another trying to see just how many links you can lose from a chain on a single speed and still be roadworthy. A few riders took the scenic route (our phrase for wandering off the mapped route) but most managed to eventually locate the bagel stop.

Coming up...

Saturday 6/23/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain, original route, with route options of 27 miles with moderage climbing or 40 miles with some bonus climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits

There's an ad running on local radio that includes an interesting phrase. "Good energy is contagious." After one of our recent Saturday morning adventures, a newbie was asked how they were feeling. They advised that they were OK, except their face muscles hurt from smiling and laughing so much during the ride. Now there is a rider that has discovered our secret right from the get go. We are a teaching group and riders are referred to us from all over the valley as we have a reputation for being inclusive and welcoming of all levels of cyclists. If you are an experienced rider in the herd, and you notice someone who appears unsure of what they are doing, offer education... in a friendly, upbeat manner. If you respond with terse words and aggression, that will be the memory retained, not the skill you were trying to impart. Bit of a life lesson there, grasshoppers.

Ride safe

PMBC Jersey Spotted in China: A Postscript

The Mystery of How the Jersey Get to China Revealed

Added June 16, 2007

written by Cindy DiMassa

(This story is a follow up on the article and photo: "PMBC Jersey Spotted in China" in The Hub: May 2007.)

I was just on the GABA site and read about the GABA bike shirt on the guide, Charles, in China. Gerry and I gave him that shirt on our Backroads China trip in 2005. He was tickled to get it. It is funny that this photo of him wearing it made it back to our group!

It's like a message in a bottle! Gerry and I took a Backroad's biking trip to China in May 2005. While I can't say that China was fun, it was certainly fascinating. This trip began in the countryside of the southern Guangdong province and moved onto the surreal limestone formations of Yangshuo, farther north. We saw people living as they have for hundred's of years, with women working the fields with babies on their backs, farmers with their water buffalos in the rice fields and excited children marveling at our bikes and outfits. Curious locals crowed around to watch us at every stop, particularly at lunch in places you could not imagine were restaurants. Midway through the tour, we traded in our mountain bikes for traditional Chinese cruisers. In Xian, we joined in the human river of bikes to pedal out to the Qin Shi Huang's mausoleum, otherwise known as the terracotta warrior site and also rode around the top of the wall which ran around the city. The trip ended in Beijing, where we pedaled through the streets to the Forbidden City, around Tiananmen Square and into the hu tongs, labyrinthine residential neighborhoods which date back to the 1300s. In the hu tongs, a family hosted us in their home for lunch. It is all disappearing so quickly that I encourage to go soon if you have any desires to see the old China.

About that shirt. Backroads supplied one US guide and then filled in with a Chinese company for support/sag and in-country knowledge. Charles, the man pictured with the GABA shirt, was the local Chinese guide who also rode with us on many of the days. He was actually a violinist who decided that he had more opportunity and fun as a tour guide. At the end of the tour, my husband Gerry presented Charles with the GABA shirt and we also gave a shirt to Helena, the other guide.

June 9 Saturday Cycling Report

Call of Free Food Brought out 112 Riders for Tour de Sue and Brief Membership Meeting

Added June 9, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The siren call of free food brought us 112 riders this morning, a few of which actually were there just for the pedal, amazing as that might seem. Our roll out to the south was a bit adventurous, with our version of cobble-stone streets down 56th, and having some new road choices that were not on the old route map we were using (those are called "bonus miles"). The rough road surface combined with the usual plethora of broken glass and thorns made for a number of flat tire clinics along the way, giving the lead riders plenty of time to get a head start on the eating before the tail end of the pack arrived at the meeting spot. Thanks to our club officers for holding what was probably the briefest membership meeting on record.

Coming up...

Saturday 6/16/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The McKellips Loop takes us to the east, with route options of 28 miles or 37 miles, one gentle climb on each. Breakfast at Einsteins, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Saturday 6/30/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. The Research to Oak route takes us on a clockwise loop around town, with 31 miles on the short route (no climbing) or 38 miles on the long route with some moderate climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Tid bits

For the Trekies in the crowd, what is your "prime directive" when you are rolling on your bike? This is a hard one for new riders to grasp and an easy one for long time riders to forget. In a group ride, distractions are numerous and can come fast and furious sometimes. A water bottle gets dropped in the midst of the pack. Everybody in front of you points off to the side at the lovely horses. Your seat bag comes loose. You have a screw stuck in your tire. A guy jogs by in just skimpy shorts or a gal skates by and you wonder how does she stay in that top? Always, above all else, no matter what... ride the bike. If you cease to be in control of your bike, it will take on the most amazing life of its own, and the end result often isn't pretty. Focus, grasshoppers.

Ride safe

Cyclist for Disabled Vets

Bob Beane and Dan Muchow of PMBC ride with cross-country cyclist Ed Acevedo

Added June 9, 2007

written by Bob Beane

Bob Beane and Dan Muchow of PMBC with Ed Acevedo

Cyclists Bob Beane and Dan Muchow of PMBC with cross-country cyclist Ed Acevedo at the Boeing plant in Mesa. Ed, Dan and several Boeing employees are West Point grads and retired Army servicemen. Ed's cross-country ride is in support of several charities benefiting injured Vets and Iraqi children.

Dan met Ed in Globe for the ride to Mesa. I joined them at Florence Junction, and rode with Ed into Tempe. Rick Marquis helped Ed and his SAG driver, Jorge, with needed bike maintenance over the weekend. Rick and I joined Ed and Jorge on several local rides (to help whip Jorge into shape for a Colorado ride/side trip they will do next week).

For details, visit www.bike4vets.org. PMBC and the Phoenix area are part of Ed's Week 11 journal comments.

Advocacy Works!

Think your voice doesn't count? Think again.

Added June 9, 2007

submitted by Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists.

Think your voice doesn't count? Think again. Jean Gorman, founder of The Brad Fund which is named for her son who was killed as a result of being struck by a car, emailed a few cyclists in Tucson informing them of a an internet site with bumper stickers and T-shirts bearing the slogan, "I don't share the road." These items also graphically depicted a car striking a bicycle, launching the rider high into the air. "Can't we do something about this?" Jean plead. "Can we write letters to stop this?" That was all it took. Within minutes a grassfire of emails went out to the cycling community in Tucson and nationwide. Rita Walter, Outreach Coordinator with the Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists, sent the call to arms to her contacts suggesting that everyone contact the internet site and let them know that these items are not acceptable. Perimeter Bicycling members also sent emails to the site and it wasn't long before Andy Clark of The League of American Bicyclists was involved, encouraging riders everywhere to object to these offensive items. At first, representatives of CaféPress were generic in their responses, stating that these items were within the realm of "freedom of speech" and "opinions." As the week went on, more emails flooded their site. After hearing from hundreds of cyclists, the images were removed and an apology issued:

"Thank you for your email and your thoughts in this matter. I thought that you'd like to know that the designs in question have been removed after review. Please note – if the "cache" on your web browser has not been erased it is possible you'll still see the items on your screen; however this is not usually the case.

I'm not certain how much you know about CafePress, but all of the merchandise we sell is created by our users. When a user uploads an image they agree to our Content Usage Policy. At times designs challenge this policy, are brought to our attention through various channels, and then reviewed by CafePress. The results of review are completely dependent on the images in question, and in this case they have been removed.

I apologize for the disruption these products have caused, and hope you're satisfied with the end result. If I can answer additional questions please let me know.

Sincerely,

Marc Cowlin

CafePress.com

Communications and PR Manager"

Advocacy works! Thank you.

June 3 Spin Cycle Report

Tour of the Old Dairy Farms on the Milk Run

Added June 3, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had a big crowd today, 35 riders take a tour of the old dairy farms in the Milk Run. The lead group held a good pace throughout the day averaging 21 with stops. Randy gets mechanic honors replacing his chain along the way, but still making it in time for breakfast - a true cyclist. Our group was joined by Brett Walker, who will be competing in this years RAAM starting next Sunday. You can follow Brett's progress through his web site www.teamwalker07.com or http://www.raceacrossamerica.org/. Good Luck Brett, may the wind be at your back the whole way.

Ride Schedule

6/10 - 6:30 AM - Tour de Scottsdale - See old Scottsdale with all flat miles of 40 or 44 miles. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on Rural & Ray.

6/17 - 6:30 AM - We'll do the Around Mummy with the original added in for spice. Mileage options of 35, 40, or 50 miles, with the 50 mile having a lot of hills. Breakfast at Einstein's on Rural & Ray.

6/24 - 6:30 AM - Since I received overwhelming feedback (is 5 people overwhelming feedback?), we'll keep the start time for June at 6:30, but consider changes in July if I hear otherwise. We'll do Tour de Lindsay, with mileage options of 40 or 54 miles, all mostly flat. Breakfast at Bogies Clubhouse at Ken McDonald Golf Course.

June 2 Saturday Cycling Report

Artsy Roll Through Downtown Mesa

Added June 3, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We somehow managed to draw the exact same number of riders this morning as last week, with 92 shining faces appearing. (They got shinier later as the humidity rose!) The route to the northeast was just grand, from tree lined Lindsay (we should plant more trees like that!) to the artsy roll through downtown Mesa (which just wasn't the same without one of our crew posed in the oversized pink chair). Some welcome cloud cover kept the temp down, but by the time we reached Einy's, the seats inside the airconditioning were welcome.

Coming up...

Saturday 6/9/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. FREE FOOD! PMBC's quarterly membership breatkfast meeting. Our route heads to the south (Tour de Sue in reverse) to the Home Town Buffet for lotsa eating and a brief club meeting. Route options 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is free to all PMBC members, $7 for non-members. Our jersey wrangler Kathy Mills will be in da house with our current stock of jerseys ($57 for short sleeves). Home Town is on the northwest corner of Warner & Evergreen in Chandler. If you are meeting us there instead of pedaling with the pack, aim for 8:30am.

Tid bits

Some one asked this morning how we manage to roll out with close to 100 riders on our summer rides with no follow support vehicle. The answer is that we support ourselves. With that many cyclists on the road, odds are that something is going to happen on a weekly basis, and when it does, our club riders answer the call of duty. Special thanks go out to those that kept the parade rolling today... Tom and Mat working their magic on flat tires... and to those that lent a hand following the brick incident. (Bricks in bike lanes... bad). Any Saturday that your ride leader can appear at breakfast with still clean hands... is a good day. (Actually, any day spent on a bike is a good day!)

Ride safe

PMBC Jersey Spotted in China

China Tour Guide Wears PMBC Jersey

Added May 30, 2007

written by Mark Collar
submitted by Bob Beane

I don't know who gave him the shirt but, I saw your address on it so I thought you may get a kick out of it. I just returned from a trip to China and our guide Charles was wearing this shirt. I am a native Arizonan of 45 years and was tickled to see the AZ flag, in China of all places.

May 27 Spin Cycle Report

28 Riders Take Off for the Towers of South Mountain

Added May 30, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

It's been a while since the last report, but thanks to Neal for leading the ride while I was out, even though I heard the group abandoned him. We had 28 riders and one Ocean Goddess this last Sunday take off for the towers of South Mountain. However, the only ocean that was found was Mr. Kirk and I sweating up the hill. We had several new riders with Ray, Robert, Tara, and Jim from out of state. All made their way up the mountain - great job, and most made it back - ok, I think everyone made it back. Breakfast was entertaining as usual, with the state of professional cycling and the Giro being entertaining topics. Just so you know, no riders of PMBC have been implicated or publicly confessed to doping, but there is an enquiry into Turkey Doping - stay tuned as this story unfolds!

Reminder - Starting in June (yes this Sunday) - we move to 6:30 AM. I would like to get feedback from the group in regards to having one Sunday a week starting at 6:00 (AM that is) during the summer for a longer route. Send me your thoughts - yes, no, or what the heck are you talking about?

Ride Schedule

6/3 - 6:30 AM - NOTICE NEW START TIME - Milk Run - Check out the flat east valley with mileage options of 36, 38, 40, or 44 miles. Breakfast at Wildflower at Chandler Mall.

6/10 - 6:30 AM - Tour de Scottsdale - See old Scottsdale with all flat miles of 40 or 44 miles. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on Rural & Ray.

6/24 - We'll see the results of the feedback to determine when and what time we start.

Last, but certainly not least, the dates for the White Mountain Tour has been moved to July 21 & 22nd. This is the middle of the summer, and getting away to the mountains may be just what you need.

May 26 Saturday Cycling Report

St. Francis Loop Draws 92 Riders on Holiday Weekend

Added May 28, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The price of gas apparently tempted a lot of people out of their cars today, with 92 riders turning out for our romp around town. The roll through the north end of Tempe gave us a couple of views of the ever evolving light rail construction. We had a lot of new riders, or at least new to our group riders, but with the help of the regulars (or would that be the irregulars?) we managed to keep everybody rolling around the course and all seemed to have a grand time. Breakfast chatter ranged from why cyclists shave their legs and not their arms (we did not come up with an answer to that one) to the goofiness of spending thousands of dollars to shave a few pounds off your bike equipment when you have lotsa spare pounds to shave off your body frame (we know the answer to that one).

Coming up...

Monday 5/28/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Come celebrate Memorial Day with us, with a holiday pedal. Pull on the oldest bike jersey you have (or at least the oldest one you can still tug on!)...team jerseys from the old days, clubs now defunct, and event rides that no longer exist. We'll head to AhwaFooty, with route options 24 miles with one gentle climb, or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's, southeast corner Elliot & Priest.

Saturday 6/2/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Note the time change! Our summer hours begin and we head to the northeast on the Tour de Mesa. Route options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner McClintock & Guadalupe.

Saturday 6/9/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. FREE FOOD! Time again for PMBC's quarterly membership breatkfast meeting. Our route heads to the south (Tour de Sue in reverse) and takes us to the Home Town Buffet (aka the Hog Trough) for lotsa eating and a brief club meeting. Route options 25 miles or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is free to call PMBC members, $7 for non-members. Our jersey wrangler Kathy Mills will be in da house with our current stock of jerseys ($57 for short sleeves). Home Town is on the northwest corner of Warner & Evergreen in Chandler. If you are meeting us there instead of pedaling with the pack, aim for 8:30am.

Tid bits

We have had it so easy this spring with the weather. Cool mornings giving way to gentle breezes and mild temps even by the end of the ride. Don't let that lull you into forgetting how to ride in the inferno of our summer heat. To answer a question posed by a visitor this morning, yes, the club rides all summer. Some of us ride daily (commuting) at the peak of the afternoon heat. We can because we have learned to respect the weather. If you are going to ride with us thru the summer on Saturday mornings, start hydrating on Friday. When you get up Saturday morning, your body has been without water for 8 hours (or less... depending on your style of Friday night), drink before you head out the door. Your body needs fuel to process all of the water you'll be chugging... eat before you ride, have a snackie during the ride or drink enhanced beverages (that would be sport drinks, not beer). If your drinks got hot, stop and get ice at any of the billions of convenience stores we pass. Keep the sun off your skin (which helps keep your body temp down), either by slathering yourself in sun protection goo or by wearing long sleeves. When you stop at regroups or flat tire clinics, find shade. Stay cool, grasshoppers.

Ride safe

May 19 Saturday Cycling Report

Armed Forces Day Romp to South Mountain

Added May 19, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Our Armed Forces Day romp to South Mountain brought out 85 riders, including an astounding number with military background. (And for them, in case you didn't get the message this morning, thank you for serving!) The tailwind assisted romp over to the park was a hoot, except for those who worked at clearing the glass and thorns from Baseline Rd by picking it up with their tires. Everybody did S Mt in their own style, before heading back into the same wind, which unfortunately had not shifted direction. Arrival at Kasha's brought us the welcome news that their spiffy new Gelato counter was up and churning out an excellent selection of delish product. For the benefit of our new members, our unofficial club motto is "We ride to eat!"

Coming up...

Saturday 5/26/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The St. Francis Loop takes on a figure eight to the north, with route options of 26 miles or 36 miles, both with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Monday 5/28/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. A holiday romp, come celebrate Memorial Day with us. Pull outa the back of the closet or bottom of your drawer the oldest bike jersey you have (or at least the oldest one you can still tug on!). Team jerseys from the old days, clubs now defunct, and event rides that no longer exist. We'll head to AhwaFooty, with route options 24 miles with one gentle climb, or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's, southeast corner Elliot & Priest.

Saturday 6/2/07 6:30am Kiwanis Park. Note the time change! We switch to our summer hours and head to the northeast on the Tour de Mesa. Route options of 29 miles or 39 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner McClintock & Guadalupe.

Tid bits

One of the primo benefits of our club is our website (thanks Terry!). Pop in there every now and then for up to the minute updates on things, such as the fact that the date for the White Mountain Tour in July has been changed. If you were going to miss out because of a scheduling conflict, now is your chance to jump in.

Ah, the power of the pen... or is that the power of the keyboard? An exuberant thank you goes out to Pat's Cyclery in Mesa (who we just happen to have a link to our website!). After reading our sad story from last weekend about demolished pumps, the store donated to PMBC two brandy new Wrench Force pumps! How cool is that? Now, let's see, what else do we need for the club that we can commiserate about which will then magically appear next week??

Ride safe

May 12 Saturday Cycling Report

Romp to Mummy with Threat of 100+ Degrees

Added May 13, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Thanks to Ron Waller for leading the home team last Saturday. He advises we had 66 riders on a windy but beautiful morning. On that same day we had a road trip crew of 14 cyclists proudly flaunting our rising sun jerseys in the Cinco de Mayo 150 from Irvine to Delmar CA, so we're going to consider the official helmet count for the day as 80.

Today we had 78 well hydrated pedalers turn out at the park for our romp to Mummy. The threat of 100+ degrees by late morning prompted a quick roll around the routes, or at least it was for those who kept their chains and various bike components attached to their bikes. Both out bound and on the return we mixed it up a bit with athletes of various levels participating in a triathalon in the lake area. (You would think on a hot day they would do the swim last, huh?) And a sure sign of summer, at breakfast we said ta-ta for now to our own SatCycling Capistrano swallow, Roger Simmons.

Coming up...

Saturday 5/19/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Don your red/white/blue and join us for our salute to Armed Forces Day. Our active or retired members of the US military will be leading us out of the park. We'll roll over to South Mountain Park, with route options of 28 miles with one gentle climb, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with a whole lota climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's, southeast corner of Elliot & 56th St.

Monday 5/28/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. A holiday romp and your last ride day to sleep in before our summer hours kick in! Come celebrate Memorial Day with us, on a ride in memory of rides and riders gone by. Pull outa the back of the closet or bottom of your drawer the oldest bike jersey you have (or at least the oldest one you can still tug on!). Team jerseys from the old days, clubs now defunct, and event rides that no longer exist. We'll head to AhwaFooty, because the return route on Liberty is a road some of us have been riding for over 15 years. Route options 24 miles with one gentle climb, or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's, southeast corner Elliot & Priest.

Tid bits

Here's an interesting and some what astounding bit of trivia. We have 437 riders on our SatCycling email list! If everybody turns out to ride with us on the same day, we're definitely going to run short of maps. That number is a lot larger than the total membership of Phoenix Metro Bicycle Club, and we would like to narrow that gap a bit. Some of you have been sitting in the draft for a long time, and it's time to help pull the line. There is no fee for our Saturday morning romps, because PMBC's membership dues cover our expenses such as insurance, map production, replacing club pumps (which we demolish on a regular basis), paying your ride leader's huge salary, etc. SatCycling is open to all riders, but if you are popping in on a regular basis, it's time to join the herd officially. Head to the website, print off a membership form, add $15, and pop it in the mail or bring it the next Saturday morning you are out with us.

Ride safe

City of Phoenix to Present "Silent Sunday" at South Mountain Park/Preserve

"Silent Sunday" Event to be held each Month in 2007

Added May 10, 2007

written by Rebecca Smart

Bicyclists, tots in strollers, in-line skaters, wheelchair users, horseback riders, walkers, hikers, etc, get to call the roadways of South Mountain Park their own during these events! The Phoenix Parks and Recreation Department is sponsoring Silent Sunday, which will close the park's main Central Avenue-access roads to motor vehicles from 5 a.m. to 11 p.m. The park roads will be reserved for the entire day for all non-motorized recreational activities!

Visitors will also be able to enjoy free park ranger programs and hikes from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the South Mountain Environmental Education Center.

The goals of Silent Sunday are to promote awareness of alternative modes of transportation and recreation, and to give the Park/Preserve a day of rest from motor vehicle traffic. All park roads past the main gatehouse at the Central Avenue entrance will be closed to motor vehicles during the event. Free public parking will be available near the parks' main entrance at 10919 S. Central Avenue, Phoenix.

Only the roadways accessible from the preserve's Central Avenue entrance will be closed during the event. All other trailhead access points, including Pima Canyon, Desert Foothills, Beverly Canyon, and Mormon Trail, will remain open to vehicles.

Please find the attached Silent Sunday flyer, which lists all of the event dates for 2007. We hope to see you at South Mountain Park/Preserve!

Visit us on the web at: http://phoenix.gov/PARKS/hikesoth.html.

Best regards,

Rebecca Smart
Park Ranger II
City of Phoenix Parks & Recreation Department
South Mountain Environmental Education Center
Phone: (602) 534-6327
FAX: (602) 534-6330

(2007 Silent Sunday event dates are: April 22, May 27, June 24, July 22, August 26, September 23, October 28, November 18, and December 23.)

May 6 Spin Cycle Report

Post Cinco de Mayo Ride to Lehi

Added May 10, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 28 riders for the post Cinco de Mayo ride to Lehi. We even were graced with the presence of the one quarter wonder Carter - glad you were able to make it. No one showed up smelling like tequila, so it must have been a mild night. Our group started fast, with the jokes that is. There was a question on whether Roger was starting his own 501C organization. Then Ron and Barry where talking about attaching bike fronts and rears and embarrassing everyone - had to be there. Dr. Mike thought he had the king of the hill on Brown, only to figure out the false flat and Alex smiling and saying it wasn't over. However, Dr. Mike got the last word in saying, "yes it was!". Our man Pete won the sprint over Extension, and doing his best to prop his team colors, zipping up his jersey and pointing to the sky as he crossed the apex of the hill - my hero!!!

Ride Schedule

5/13 - 7:00AM - Around the mountain - All 50 flat miles, with breakfast at Noshies' - old Atlanta Bread Company on Elliot & 56th St.

5/20 - 7:00AM - Tour de Usery Pass - How about some extra miles with some climbing. For those up to it, 60+ miles with some climbing over Usery Pass or 35 miles with no climbing and 45 with moderate climbing. Breakfast/lunch at either Einstein's or Quiznos on NW corner of McClintock & Guadalupe.

5/27 - 7:00AM - Change in plans - Go to South Mountain and enjoy another car free day on the hill. Mileage options of 35, 40 or 45 miles with a lot of climbing on the last two options. Breakfast TBD.

April 29 Spin Cycle Report

Mummy Mountain and the "Slug Bug" Award

Added April 29, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 25 riders today on our own Ride of Silence. Actually, the ride to Mummy Mountain was very nice, with a couple of flats sprinkled in (ok 4, but Ann gets the award for the biggest blowout). We even saw a snake along the way, at least those that could still see at that point in the ride. And, instead of having the king of the mountain or sprint awards, I'm announcing a new contest, the "Slug Bug" award. I thoroughly trounced Gene today.

Ride Schedule

5/6 - 7:00 AM - Tour de Lehi - With a stop at Valle Luna in celebration of Cinco de Mayo (Ray & Dobson). Mileage options of 35 or 40 miles, all flat.

5/13 - 7:00AM - Around the mountain - All 50 flat miles, with breakfast at Noshies' - old Atlanta Bread Company on Elliot & 56th St.

5/27 - 7:00AM - Sacaton - before the summer sizzle. Mileage options of 37, 52, 58 or 60 miles with some hills on the last couple of options. Breakfast at Wildflower - Chandler Mall.

April 28 Saturday Cycling Report

Clear Bright Morning for McKellips Loop

Added April 28, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

A clear bright morning brought us 71 riders for our romp over to Mesa today. Our rear guard got to watch some brave souls slog into the mucky waters of the Town Lake for some kind of group swim as we headed north across the bridge. The traditional head wind across McKellips made the sweet spots behind the larger riders and the tandems the favored places to hang out. Those honking at the lead of the group let out a mass groan at the sound of a train horn as we zipped south on Extension, but then laughs as they realized the train was only a couple of engines, as opposed to one of the never-ending long trains that normally rolls across town. To those who were silly enough to look at the map and try to find Einy's at Alma School instead of at McClintock where it exists in the real world, sorry. :-)

Coming up...

Saturday 5/5/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Ron Waller's favorite ride, the Roundabout Route takes us around and about town. Route options 25 miles with no climbing or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Bruegers, northwest of Mill & 11th.

Saturday 5/12/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. ROUTE CHANGE! In the category of "its always something", we're switching our planned romp to South Mountain to the following Saturday, to avoid conflicting with the South Mountain hill climb road race. Unless you want to enter the race, come with us to the other mountain, as we head back north to Mummy Mountain. (Since putting Mummy on the calendar seems to result in a rain day, keep an eye on the weather forecast for this romp!) Route options 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with a bit of extra climbing. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Saturday 5/19/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. We'll roll over to South Mountain Park before the summer heat sets in. Route options 28 miles with one gentle climb, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with a whole lota climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's, southeast corner of Elliot & 56th St.

Tid bits

After introducing our "celebrity" rider this morning, which was Rich Rumer of the Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists, a few riders asked what the coalition is. The answer is that they are our voice, our hammer, and our education system. We proudly wear their logo (CAzB) on our jersey sleeve and we donate funds every year to the association. The coalition fights for the rights of cyclists in our state and in general works to make the world a safer place for us. They lobby for laws to assist us and push for enforcement of existing laws to make sure they are applied as intended. They tackle the never ending and sometimes thankless task of teaching cyclists to know and follow the rules of the road, aware that if we expect to have the respect of car drivers we must earn it. On the flip side of that, they attempt to educate the car driving public about our right to be on the road. For more info, see their website at: www.cazbike.org.

Ride safe

April 22 Spin Cycle Report

Silent Sunday at South Mountain Park

Added April 26, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

The call of no motorized traffic brought 28 riders to the pack heading to South Mountain. The day was perfect, no major wind and the weather just right. Even though yours truly forgot the start time, we did manage to leave by 7:15. Our pack made our way to the base of the mountain, with a few mechanicals, like Charlie dropping his crank arms and Boris having to change his tube 3 times, Booger once, and Gene after breakfast. At least Roger got a few extra tubes out of the day. Several new riders made their maiden trek (no pun intended - ok a little pun) up south mountain without stopping. I guess the Thomas girls have something up on Neal..

Ride Schedule

4/29 - 7:00 AM - Original Mummy Mountain - Mileage options of 35 flat or 45 hilly miles. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on McClintock & Guadalupe.

5/6 - 7:00 AM - Tour de Lehi - With a stop at Valle Luna in celebration of Cinco de Mayo (Ray & Dobson). Mileage options of 35 or 40 miles, all flat.

5/13 - 7:00AM - Around the mountain - All 50 flat miles, with breakfast at Noshies' - old Atlanta Bread Company on Elliot & 56th St.

5/27 - 7:00AM - Sacaton - before the summer sizzle. Mileage options of 37, 52, 58 or 60 miles with some hills on the last couple of options. Breakfast at Wildflower - Chandler Mall.

April 21 Saturday Cycling Report

Ominous Skies Bring Out Beater Bikes and Creative Clothing

Added April 22, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Ominous skies at dawn reduced our spring herd to 41 riders this morning. The threat of wet streets brought out an interesting array of beater bikes and creative clothing. (Only in our gang are plastic bags considered to be articles of clothing.) The short route drew a few more riders than usual, with cyclists wanting to turn their backs on the approaching dark clouds and make a bee-line for carbs and caffiene. The roll over the Tempe Town Lake bridge brought us a view of the card-board boat races being assembled below, making us ponder what the weather was going to do for them.

Coming up...

Saturday 4/28/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The McKellips Loop, to the northeast, with route options of 28 miles or 37 miles, a couple of gentle climbs on each. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner of Guadalupe & McClintock.

Saturday 5/5/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The Roundabout Route takes us, well, around and about. Route options 25 miles with no climbing or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Bruegers, northwest of Mill & 11th.

Saturday 5/12/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The recent rains will give us one last chance to ponder the wildflowers in South Mountain Park before the summer heat nukes 'em. Route options 28 miles with one gentle climb, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with a whole lota climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's, southeast corner of Elliot & 56th St.

Tid bits

For those asking about club jerseys, we are between orders but do still have some left overs from the last one. Zing your questions about remaining sizes to our jersey wrangler, Kathy Mills . If we get enough people asking about sizes we are out of, betcha we can get the powers that be to make another order.

Ride safe

April 15 Spin Cycle Report

Tour de Lindsay Becomes Our Own Version of Paris Roubaix

Added April 15, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

Happy Tax Day everyone! Oh, what a way to start a ride report. We had 22 riders take on Tour de Lindsay, but it will forever be changed to AZ Roubaix. We had our own version of Paris Roubaix today, with many sections of gravel roads, pot holes, and flats along Hunt & Lindsay. Even a few un-announced route changes along the way was all part of the spectacle due to the "IRON PEOPLE" as Sue calls them. Well, the Heal of the Southwest was tamed with most making it back for breakfast at Bogies Clubhouse.

Ride Schedule

4/22 - 7:00 AM - South Mountain - Do either the 25, 40 or 45 mile options with 40 having some hills and 45 a lot of hills. Breakfast at Spokes - Dobbins & Central. NOTE, the South Mountain park is closed to traffic all day, so let's enjoy the roads.

4/29 - 7:00 AM - Original Mummy Mountain - Mileage options of 35 flat or 45 hilly miles. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on McClintock & Guadalupe.

April 14 Saturday Cycling Report

71 Riders Practice Barricade Avoidance on St. Francis Loop

Added April 15, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The absolutely perfect weather brought out 71 riders for our adventure looping back and forth thru Tempe this morning. We practiced our barricade avoidance, cheered on the MS walkers up by the zoo, saw some actual IronPeople in motion (rather intense, aren't they?), and eventually gathered up at the bagel place. Part of the group only made a brief pit stop there, wanting to roll back to Kiwanis to check out the new and improved Bike Swap Meet, which turned out to be pretty neato this year. All kinds of bike paraphenalia, bikes to test ride, some whopping deals on glasses, free t-shirts (as long as you wore a medium) and... cookies! Apparently someone has figured out the perfect draw to bring in cyclists... offer some free food.

Coming up...

Saturday 4/21/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. Mummy Mountain, route options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with a couple of additional climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest of Mill & 11th.

Saturday 4/28/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The McKellips Loop takes us to the northeast, with route options of 28 miles or 37 miles, a couple of gentle climbs on each. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner of Guadalupe & McClintock.

Tid bits

A reminder, if you drive to Kiwanis Park and leave your vehicle in the parking lot, don't leave anything of value in it, and definitely don't leave anything of value in plain sight in it. Wallets, phones, cameras... take them with you or leave them at home. We have a police sub-station right down the street, but that doesn't seem to be much of a deterent to the mean people in the world.

For many of you, that piece of equipment between your legs is for recreational use only. (Hmm... let's see if that line gets by our webmaster, shall we?) Your rider leader is offering you a challenge. Just once, sometime this coming week, use that pricey toy as transportation. Wednesday April 18th is Bike to Work Day. If that just isn't feasible, how about bike to the grocery store day? You would be amazed at how many plastic grocery bags you can dangle off even drop handlebars. Now that it stays light later, maybe bike to dinner? Eating your french fries guilt free because you're burning calories to and from the munching is kinda cool.

To cap off bike week in a wonderful way and to celebrate Earth Day , South Mountain Park (access off of Central) will be closed to cars on Sunday April 22nd. Go ride your bike.

Ride safe

April 8 Spin Cycle Report

Tour de Mesa: A Few Flats and a Loose Spoke

Added April 14, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

Not sure how many riders we had last Sunday, but thanks to Neal for leading the group. I heard there was a few flats and a loose spoke, and that isn't even including the bikes.

We are going to make some route changes for the next couple of weeks. This weeks Sacaton ride has been cancelled and will be replaced with the Tour De Lindsay Route. Then on April 22nd, we will head to South Mountain and take advantage of the road closure to motorized vehicles that day. One of the goals is to promote awareness of alternative modes of transportation.

Ride Schedule

4/15 - 7:00 AM - Tour de Lindsay - All flat miles with options of 40 or 54 miles. Breakfast at Bogies Clubhouse - Ken McDonald Golf Course - Guadalupe & Rural.

4/22 - 7:00 AM - South Mountain - Do either the 25, 40 or 45 mile options with 40 having some hills and 45 a lot of hills. Breakfast at Spokes - Dobbins & Central.

4/29 - 7:00 AM - Original Mummy Mountain - Mileage options of 35 flat or 45 hilly miles. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on McClintock & Guadalupe.

April 7 Saturday Cycling Report

Spring Crowd Reduced to "only" 68 Riders

Added April 8, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The Desert Cycling Classic and the Tillman Run reduced our spring crowd to "only" 68 riders this morning. The roll out down Dobson was uneventful, unless you were the rider whose rear derailler took on a life of it's own, ending up looking like a pretzel (the derailler, not the rider). A little tail wind cranked up the west bound romp for both groups, but the long route riders still got their heart-rates up with the left hand turn across Maricopa Road onto 56th, mixing it up with cars doing nothing even resembling the speed limit. A bit of advance notice this time about our pending arrival at Kasha's had the crew there cranked up and ready to feed the masses.

Coming up...

Saturday 4/14/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The St. Francis Loop, with options of 26 miles or 36 miles, both with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits

Bike Week approacheth! (For some of us, every week is bike week.)

To tempt out the hordes of cyclists who have taken up residence in the southeast valley, the Valley Bike Expo has been relocated this year to our own home field. Saturday April 14th, 8am to noon, the Bike Swap Meet will be held in Kiwanis Park, in the parking lot to the south of the one we use. We'll be back from our morning romp with time to left for you to pick up some great deals there.

The Tempe Bike to Work and School Day has been set for Wednesday April 18th. Appear at any of the following locations that morning from 6am to 8am for free snackies and t-shirts (as long as supplies last, so don't dawdle!):
Whole Foods, northwest corner Rural & Baseline.
Wildflower, southwest corner McClintock & Guadalupe.
Bernings's Jewelry, southwest corner McClintock & Warner.
Bruegger's, northwest corner Mill & 11th.
IKEA, northwest corner Warner & Priest.

The Tempe Community Ride is set for Wednesday April 18th, 7am with the start point being Whole Foods at Rural & Baseline. Join Mayor Hallman for a gentle pedal up to Brueggers (yes, that is only about 4 miles, but there's free food on both ends!)

Ride safe

March 31 Saturday Cycling Report

49 Riders Sign In For AhwaFooty Route

Added April 1, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Thanks to Chris Jungk for leading the home team yesterday. He advises the following about the adventure:

"We had 49 riders sign in today that were not enticed enough by the ability to run red lights to spend $60 to ride in the Tour de Phoenix. We got started uneventfully despite the parking lot near miss of two eager cyclists trying to get in and unloaded. The ride down 48th St had it's usual anti-cyclist Ahwatukee residents telling us to get off the road, however once we got past the regroup it was great riding, other than the piles of landscaping rocks that planned an ambush along 17th Ave and jumped out, tackling one unsuspecting rider. The pack spread out as we hit the hills and we had only one more near miss as a tiny Miniature Pincer got away from the little girl walking it and chased us across a very busy 42nd St and then ran back. Fortunately cyclist and motorist worked together to make sure the dog didn't get hurt. Talk at the breakfast stop centered on great bike tours that we have gone on and ones that we would all like to and wondering how to afford them once retirement comes and you have the freedom to go more often. Summary: No Flats, one fall and a very scared young dog owner.

Safety tip: When riding on busy roads take a tip from the RAGBRAI and "Ride Right". Stay as far to the right as possible. If there is a bike lane, no more than two abreast, otherwise ride single file. This allows motorist and other cyclists to pass safely and not obstruct traffic."

Thanks again, Chris, for stepping up. You do know what happens when you do too good a job at something??

Coming up...

Saturday 4/7/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! St. Francis Loop, with options of 26 miles or 36 miles, both with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Saturday 4/14/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. The Tour de Sue takes us down south to either Queen Creek (25 miles) or Riggs Road (35 mile), no climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's, southeast corner 56th St & Elliot.

Tid bits

Blind spots in cars. No, we are not going to talk about vision impaired puppies in Porsches. When we think of a blind spot in a car design, we often think of a driver's line of vision behind the vehicle. But from our cyclist's perspective, we need to be aware of impaired line of sight forward from many cars and trucks. If you are approaching an intersection and a car is approaching the same intersection from your right, can you see the driver's face? Or is your line of sight to him (and, more importantly, his to you) blocked by the frame that descends from the vehicle's roof to the body of the car? If you and the car approach the intersection at about the same rate of speed, the driver's blind spot created by the frame of the vehicle will continue until you are right on top of each other (sometimes literally). Before you roll across in front of any vehicle, be sure you can see the driver's eyes. It will not guarantee the driver sees you, but will at least decrease the odds of you becoming a hood ornament.

Ride safe

March 25 Spin Cycle Report

Some Things Just Don't Make Any Sense

Added March 29, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 24 riders last Sunday - Thanks to Neal for leading the group. I heard the group stayed together for the most part. However, I heard Ron entertained the group during breakfast, that Mike was left out in the wind, and Neal won a sprint. Now, 2 out of 3 I can believe, but some things just don't make any sense..

Ok, back to normalcy, or as normal as this group ever gets. Our ride times start at 7:00AM starting this Sunday -

4/1 - 7:00 AM - Note time change - April Fools ride - We will be fools and ride around South Mountain. All flat miles of 50, breakfast at Bagel Nosh - 48th Street & Warner.

4/8 - 7:00AM - We'll try Tour de Mesa again - mileage options of 35 flat or 45 somewhat hilly miles. Breakfast at Pleaissant Croissants on Rural & Elliot.

4/15 - 7:00AM - We haven't been to Sacaton in a while, mileage options of 37, 52, 58, or 60 miles - mostly flat. Breakfast at Wildflower in the Chandler Mall.

4/22 - 7:00 AM - Tour de Lindsay - all flat miles with options of 40 or 54 miles. Breakfast at Bogies Clubhouse - Ken McDonald Golf Course - Guadalupe & Rural.

4/29 - 7:00 AM - Original Mummy Mountain - mileage options of 35 flat or 45 hilly miles. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on McClintock & Guadalupe.

March 24 Saturday Cycling Report

60 Riders Kept the Storm Front at Bay

Added March 25, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 60 riders boldy disregard the black threatening skies and turn out for our romp to Mesa this morning. Apprently the group generated enough hot air that the up draft kept the storm front at bay and the route was completed without catching a drip (except for a few splats off the road). We carefully dodged the convenience store that banished us on this route on our last go 'round, and spent our snackie bucks where they were more appreciated (or at least tolerated). The recent rains resulted in a number of flats, some of them more conveniently timed that others... like 50 feet into the start as opposed to as we rolled into the breakfast stop. (If you are going to have a flat, timing is everything!)

Coming up...

Satuday 3/31/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. The AhwaFooty route, with options of 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's (previously known as Atlanta Bread Co), southwest corner Elliot & Priest.

Saturday 4/14/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. One of our few remaining open road rides, the Tour de Sue takes us down south to either Queen Creek (25 miles) or Riggs Road (35 mile), no climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's, southeast corner 56th St & Elliot.

Tid bits

Smooth operater. Great song... and a grand compliment if somebody extends it your way when you are on your bike. In recreational riding groups, smooth riders stand out from the crowd, unfortunately because they are in the minority. They make your ride leader's heart zing, cuz a smooth rider is a safe rider, and they make the space around them safe for other cyclists. When pedaling around others, hold your line, which means to ride straight forward, without side to side movements. Keep your pace consistent, try not to coast or brake hard. If you get too close to the riders in front of you, instead of coasting, try "soft" pedaling, which means to let your feet continue to go 'round, but not put any pressure into your stroke. If you need to brake, just lightly feather them. Any rapid movements you make, side to side or jumpy accelaration or braking, will be echoed and compounded further back in the line behind you. Be smoooth, baby.

Ride safe

March 17 Saturday Cycling Report

A Rollicking Romp to South Mountain

Added March 17, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

A double header ride report:

Thanks to Ron Waller who stepped up to lead the herd of 84 riders last Saturday. Most managed to follow their appetites to the free food at the club breakfast.

This morning the draw of the Gran Prix bike race in Scottsdale and the not so racy Mining Country ride reduced the home team to 57 riders. After most of the group located the relocated sign-in spot down the road aways, we were off. The roll over to S Mountain was enhanced by a gentle tailwind making for a rollicking romp. The enthusiasm continued when we reached the Stone House, with part of the group committing to the whole enchilada, cranking it out not only up the Towers road but then also doing the jaunt out to San Juan and back. Our arrival at breakfast was greeted with the stunning discovery that the Atlanta Bread Co is no more, we apparently ate them right out of business. The new biz is called Kasha's and at the moment seemed the same, but we were advised changes are under way. Maybe they'll add valet bike parking? Complimentary bike wash? Eh, maybe not.

Coming up...

Saturday 3/24/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Off to the northeast on the Tour de Mesa, route options of 29 miles with no climbing or 39 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Einsteins, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock.

Satuday 3/31/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. For those not headed to the Tour de Phx, we'll do our own version of Tour de Phx's Backyard. The AhwaFooty route takes us over in to the Ahwatukee Foothills area. Options of 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Kasha's (previously known as Atlanta Bread Co), southwest corner Elliot & Priest.

Saturday 4/7/07 7:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! Summer is cranking up and we'll head to the cool (?) hills of north Tempe (or Scottsdale or whatever city they are in) on the St. Francis Loop. Options of 26 miles or 36 miles, both with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits

Our prez Jay Stewart is looking for warm bodies to volunteer to assist at the Tour De Cure ride, but needs a quick response as the event is next Saturday March 24th. The ride starts/ends at I-17 and Happy Valley Road. If you could help out, zip a note to Jay Stewart.

Ladies, a training weekend just for you:

March 24-25, 2007. Road One for Women. Endorsed by the AZ Dept of Transportation Bicycle and Pedestrian Program, taught by instructors certified by the League of American Bicyclists. Road One is recomended for newer as well as veteran bicyclists. $35. Fill out the registration form, and email it to Radar Matt. Electronic registration must be recieved two business days prior to the class. All Road One classes begin at 7:00am

For more info, contact the CAzB Education Line at 480.893.3159, or Radar Matt.

Just a reminder, PMBC will reimburse the cost to any club member who completes a Road One course!

Ride safe

March 11 Spin Cycle Report

Metro Mania on a Perfect Day of Riding

Added March 13, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 27 riders last Sunday, on a perfect day of riding. Several new bikes arrived at the park, but they may need to be taken back since they got flat tires. We also had a pretty speedy ride, with most of the group averaging over 20mph for the entire ride, not bad with all of those stop lights.

This weekend there are two Major Events. On Saturday, March 17, PMBC hosts the 15th Annual Mining Country Challenge and on Sunday, March 18th, GABA West Valley hosts their Around the Tanks ride. The Mining Country Challenge at 66 and 96 miles is a very hilly and challenging ride. While Around the Tanks at 50 and 70 miles is almost as flat as a pancake.

Below is information on the benefit concert at Rawhide, 4-10pm, Saturday, 3/24. This was the couple hit while on their bikes by a driver who didn't stop at the red light at I-10 and Chandler Blvd. Visit http://www.gagetotaltraining.com.

Ride Schedule

3/18 - 7:30 AM - Tour Around Mummy - and the infamous king of the hill route - mileage options of 35 or 45 miles, with some hills on the longer route. Breakfast at Pete's Grill at Ken McDonald Golf Course.

3/25 - 7:30 AM - Tour de Mesa - Go to the ends of Mesa - mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with some hills on the longer route. Breakfast at Pleaissant Croissants - Rural & Elliot.

March 3 Saturday Cycling Report

A Magnificent Morning Moonset on Mummy Mountain Meander

Added March 3, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

A beautiful moonset this morning beckoned 61 riders outa their warm beds and into a chilly ride start. The roll up into Scottsdale was grand, until somebody broke a chain. A Campy chain. The search was on for a Campy chain tool. Being a quality recreational club, an incredible array of tools and assorted paraphernalia appeared from pockets and seat bags... everything but the needed gizmo. After working for some time at an attempted road side repair, the decision was made to call for a tow service. No AAA for us, we only go with the best... S&J Towing. A newly formed service, but creative and enthusiastic. We shortly had, huh... "Scooter" under tow, riding hand in hand and hand to butt (now you know why names have been changed to protect the not so innocent), rolling that way all the way back into town and in Domenic's door. Thanks to the towing team, and to the follow vehicles for comic relief (like it was really needed at that point?). Every Saturday is an adventure.

Coming up...

Saturday 3/10/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. FREE FOOD! Our first quarterly membership breakfast meeting of 2007. Location will be Home Town Buffet at the northwest corner of Warner and Evergreen in Chandler. Ride with us from Kiwanis Park at 7:30am for the Length of Lindsay route first or meet us at the restaurant at 9:30am. Route options 27 miles or 37 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is free for all PMBC members or $7.00 for non-members.

Saturday 3/17/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. Aye n' begora! For this St. Paddy's Day morning start we are being booted out of our parking lot at Kiwanis and have been asked to relocate to the next parking lot to the south, due to a running event hogging our parking lot. Don your green and head to South Mountain with us, options of 27 miles with gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with earn your Laffy Taffy climbing. (Maybe we should invite the runners to come with us?) Breakfast at Atlanta Bread Co, southeast corner Elliot & Priest.

Tid bits

The spring event rides are coming. You know the ones. Where you spend money to ride your bike which you can do for free anytime? But those bucks can be well spent. Signing up for one of the upcoming adventures can motivate your butt onto your bike now to increase your fitness level, because you know everyone else is going to see your finish time! If you would like to participate but don't want to work that hard at it, all of the event rides need non-riding warm bodies to make them happen. In addition to helping out with our club hosted rides, the line is long for ride organizers looking for volunteers. The PBAA has put out a call for people to assist with this year's Tour de Phoenix. They need help with registration on Friday March 30th and also on ride day, Saturday March 31st. If you want to get involved, contact Sheila Foraker or 602-647-9702 cell phone or 520-745-2033 office.

Ride safe

February 25 Spin Cycle Report

22 riders on a chilly Tempe Mountains Ride

Added March 3, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 22 riders on this chilly morning. I'm glad Randy was there to offer his warm truck when I got to the park to unthaw. Our group stayed together for the first half until the hills came. Not sure who won Galvin, but I saw Geno make a clear getaway on McDowell and beat everyone (you just have to move the finish line back a few yards). Breakfast was entertaining as usual, with Sue and Ron joining us.

NOTICE - Start time moves to 7:30 AM starting this Sunday - yahoo

Ride Schedule

3/4 - 7:30 AM - NOTICE START TIME - By request, our pack heads to South Mountain for more climbing Route options of 35 with a few rolling hills, 42 with some more and 50 with a lot. Breakfast at Bagel Nosh on 48th St. & Warner.

3/11 - 7:30 AM - Metro Mania - Hit all of the east valley cities. Mileage options of 36 or 45 miles, mostly flat - breakfast at Einstein's on Ray & Rural.

3/25 - 7:30 AM - Tour de Mesa - Go to the ends of Mesa - mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with some hills on the longer route. Breakfast at Pleaissant Croissants - Rural & Elliot.

Lastly - Below is copy of what Sue had sent out on her Saturday ride report - I hope everyone can learn from this good information.

We have stressed in the past that you should ride in our large pack romps no differently than you do when you ride solo... keeping tight to the right side of the road, stopping at traffic lights, not impeding car traffic. But that concept is offered up under the idea that you ride safely and legally when out on your own. Maybe the thought needs to be voiced that the guidelines we offer on Saturday mornings should be observed when you are out solo, too. You represent the cycling community just as much on your weekday bike commute or daily fitness ride as you do when in our weekend herd. If you know the rules of the road and choose to ignore them, shame on you (and you also might want to increase your medical and life insurance). If you are unclear about the rules of the road and safe manuevering in traffic, we have a program here, hosted by the bike coalition, to give you that knowledge. Our club believes in it so strongly that we will reimburse the cost to you. Later this year, sometime after April, the bike coalition will be hosting another series of effective cycling classes. The cost is $35, and PMBC will reimburse that cost to any club member who completes the class. See www.cazbike.org for details. Contact Radar Matt and let him know you want to attend and classes will be scheduled. Learn and live to ride another day.

February 24 Saturday Cycling Report

49 Riders Turn Out for McKellips Loop

Added February 25, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 49 riders turn out for our revised romp yesterday. We rolled out pf the park, except for one left behind with a flat tire, and then three returned for a Camelback left in a car, then two more arrived after the start time. Our "B" pack evetually got underway, with only slightly fewer riders than the lead group. We reunited at the first regroup, then set off for various versions of the roll across McKellips. Along the way we picked up the ASU cycling team, all of which but one was promptly dropped by our advanced riders. Breakfast at Neighbor's turned into family day, with almost as many non-riders in the crowd as those who had pedaled.

Coming up...

Saturday 3/3/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! Mummy Mountain, with route options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with bonus climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Saturday 3/10/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. FREE FOOD! For some reason that announcement always brings out a crowd of riders... and eaters. Time for our first quarterly membership breakfast meeting of 2007. Location will be Home Town Buffet at the northwest corner of Warner and Evergreen in Chandler. Ride with us from Kiwanis Park at 7:30am for the Length of Lindsay route first or meet us at the restaurant at 9:30am. Route options 27 miles or 37 miles, no climbing. Breakfast is free for all PMBC members or $7.00 for non-members.

Saturday 3/17/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. The journey to South Mountain, attempt two. Routes options 27 miles with gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with earn your cream cheese climbing. Breakfast at Atlanta Bread Co, southeast corner Elliot & Priest.

Tid bits

Ride safe

February 10 and 17 Saturday Cycling Report

AhwaFooty and the Roundabout Route

Added February 17, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Thanks to Ron Waller for stepping up to lead the herd last Saturday morning. He advises we had 64 riders, no flats (which is pretty amazing), and one gentle fall over (the participant in which shall remain nameless in order to protect his rapidly declining reputation as a skilled bike handler).

This morning's gorgeous spring weather brought us 62 riders for a gritty romp up into east Phoenix. The group got so spread out that the lead riders had already departed the breakfast stop by the time the tail end of the group arrived, but that was just fine since ABC (the "other" club here in the valley) was using the same food stop this morning. Great minds eat alike or something along those lines.

Coming up...

Monday 2/19/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. If you are off work or school, come pedal with us on the Tour de Sue in reverse, with options on Riggs or Queen Creek. Mileage of either 25 or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Saturday 2/24/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. If it rains a bit more, and the sun shines a bit more, there just might be wildflowers to be seen in South Mountain Park. We'll go take a look, with route options 27 miles with a bit of gentle climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with lotsa climbing. Breakfast at Atlanta Bread Co, southeast corner Elliot & Priest.

Saturday 3/3/07 7:30am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! We'll try heading back to Mummy Mountain, now that the artic weather has receded. Route options 27 with moderate climbing or 40 miles with bonus climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits

All members of PMBC, and all cyclists valley wide, are invited to attend a service tomorrow (Sunday Feb 18th) in memory of Larry Harrison. The event is being hosted by ABC, to be held at 11:00am at their pack start point at Granada Park in Phoenix.

Ride safe

February 11 Spin Cycle Report

Dwindling Cows on the Milk Run

Added February 17, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 18 riders check out the dwindling cows on the milk run ride. However, those few cows still can do some damage to your nose if you know what I mean. For the most part it was a quiet and peaceful ride, if you know what I mean. Gene kept picking up the pace all day long. Ron decided to bail early, something about breaking his seat. What is it lately with all these seats breaking? Other than that, another day in the saddle.

Ride Schedule

2/18 - 8:00 AM - To the Towers - Mileage options of 30 mostly flat miles, 42 with some climbing, and 50 with a lot of climbing. We'll try the new Spokes Restaurant on Central and Dobbins.

2/25 - 8:00 AM - Tempe Mountains or hills next to Tempe. Mileage options of 38 or 45 miles, with some climbing on the longer route. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on McClintock & Guadalupe.

February 3 Saturday Cycling Report

Early Spring Romp Around St. Francis Loop

Added February 3, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 71 riders appear for our early spring romp this morning. The frost on the roof tops just after sunrise made us ponder the potential for another chilly adventure, but the temp rose along with the sun, and it turned into a gorgeous day to be out and about. Alex efficiently got his flat out of the way before we rolled outa the parking lot, as opposed to Marty, who waited until the lead group was zinging cross Rio Salado to get his. Breakfast chatter ranged from the style factor (or lack thereof) of white bar tape to how to blend the cycling life with a love of golf (hey... they both involve goofy shoes).

Coming up...

Saturday 2/10/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. AhwaFooty takes us to the Ahwatukee Foothills, with route options of 24 miles with one gentle climb or 35 miles with moderate climbing. Breakfast at Atlanta Bread Co, southeast corner Priest & Elliot.

Saturday 2/17/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. We'll go wander 'round on the Roundabout Route, with options of 25 miles with no climbing or 35 miles with a couple of climbs. Breakfast at Bruegger's, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Monday 2/19/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. It's a holiday, which for us means an extra day to pedal with our pals. We head down south, on the Tour de Sue in reverse, with options on Riggs or Queen Creek. Mileage of either 25 or 35 miles, no climbing. Breakfast at Einstein's, northwest corner Guadalupe and McClintock.

Tid bits

For those asking, yes, our Sr Olympic champion Ann Chadwick did indeed suffer a bit of a wipe out while training this week down in Tucson. She is now officially a "real" cyclist... home nursing a broken collarbone.

Ride safe

January 28 Spin Cycle Report

Around Mummy Mountain

Added February 1, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 23 riders last Sunday - and it actually got warm at the end of the ride. We all found our way around Mummy Mountain - backwards, forwards, sideways, you name it. Our flat heads were out in full force, but breakfast was entertaining as our tandem group of Ron & Sue showed how to quickly dismount once your seat is broken underneath you. Good thing Ron had Beans for lunch to get back.

Ride Schedule

2/4 - 8:00 AM - NOTICE START TIME - McKellips Loop - Out to McKellips and back doing some wind tunnel testing. Added more miles on this route - so should be 50 miles for the long route, shorter routes are 34 & 39 miles - mostly flat. Breakfast at Bogies Clubhouse - Guadalupe & Rural.

2/11 - 8:00 AM - Milk Run - Mileage options of 36, 38, 40, or 44 miles - all flat. Breakfast at Wildflower at the Chandler Mall.

2/18 - 8:00 AM - To the Towers - Mileage options of 30 mostly flat miles, 42 with some climbing, and 50 with a lot of climbing. We'll try the new Spokes Restaurant on Central and Dobbins.

2/25 - 8:00 AM - Tempe Mountains or hills next to Tempe. Mileage options of 38 or 45 miles, with some climbing on the longer route. Breakfast at Einstein Bagels on McClintock & Guadalupe.

January 27 Saturday Cycling Report

Normal Arizona Weather Brings Out 81 Riders for Tour de Mesa

Added January 28, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The chance to pedal in something at least resembling normal Arizona weather brought us 81 riders this morning. The outbound romp spread the group out... a lot. A quick paced tandem team in the lead pack stirred things up a bit in the front (for some reason Steve always rides a bit jauntier when he has a blonde onboard) while a couple of flat tires (including one impressively shredded tire and tube) detained some of the rear guard. Most found their way to Einy's after, where we reclaimed our official spot on the patio, which we had relinquished some time prior to the recent ice age.

Coming up...

Saturday 2/3/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! We move the start time up a bit to avoid the heat (?) of the day and start our spring off with the St. Francis Loop, route options 24 miles or 36 miles, moderate climbing on both. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits

Each time you don your bike helmet and roll out onto the road, you become a part of something bigger than yourself. If you wear our not so subtly colored jersey, with our club name tattooed on your chest and butt, you are representing us. But much larger than that, you represent cycling as a whole. Without choosing it, you become an ambassador for the sport of cycling. This morning the pack drew the ire of a business whose property we happened to be on, without even being aware that by doing what we do, we were bothering them. Were they a bit quick to anger? Maybe. Was their threat to ban all future cyclists from accessing that business a bit over the top? Probably. But staying aware of your surroundings is not only applicable on the road, it applies when you stop riding also. When we roll into a stop as a large group, be courteous of the non-cyclists about, both employees and the general public. Keep driveways clear, don't block parking areas, and be patient if our sudden appearance en masse flusters the staff. Keep in mind those poor souls have not yet discovered the joy that we know... how sad for them.

Ride safe

January 21 Spin Cycle Report

All 18 Hearty Souls Got Wet on Tour de Mesa

Added January 21, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

We had 18 hearty souls decide to ride today. All got wet. Although the weather had a slight chance of rain today, most didn't believe, I'm glad to report we were wrong. Larry gets the bone head award of the day, saying he was going home at Guadalupe, but decided to stick it out until the last drop fell on his head. After 4 flats and freezing temps, we made it back, at least most of us did. A detour to breakfast had us entertained with Ronisms. Some of the noteworthy items where - It's only wet when its raining, we ought to outlaw talking in the paceline for safety sake just to name a few. We'll remember those I'm sure.

Ride Schedule

1/28 - Tour De Mummy Backwards - Mileage options of 37 or 50 miles with breakfast at US Egg on Mill & Baseline.

5th Jane & Paul Tucson Tour

Tom Reports on His ""I'm not your Mom!" Tour

Added January 20, 2007

written by Tom Adams

This is the fifth time Paul & Jane have done a bicycle tour from their home in Scottsdale to Tucson and back, and it's the fourth time they've allowed the rest of us to tag along. Once again we scheduled the trip for the MLK weekend, starting on Friday and ending on Monday. This time, like #3, we decided, for a change of pace, to go clockwise round, with the first day to Florence, and third day to Casa Grande.

To read Tom's complete writeup with pictures of the tour visit http://www.crazyguyonabike.com/doc/2007TucsonTour.

January 20 Saturday Cycling Report

Curse of The Mummy, Part II

Added January 20, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

Curse of The Mummy, Part II. We had 39 riders appear at the park this morning for our second attempted winter expedition to the mist shrouded Mummy Mountain. We stood around for a few minutes before the start, trying to convince each other that the splats appearing on the asphalt were not rain drops, but instead bird spit. A bit more stalling was gained by trying to decipher what store or newspaper brand the plastic bags encasing Roger's feet were. Once all of that was sorted out, there was nothing left to do but roll out enthusiastically into the chilly wet. Either more riders are getting aclimatized to the weather, or more are resigned to the issue that if they want to ride this winter they better just get on with it, resulting in most of the group actually going on to complete the route around Mummy.

Coming up...

Saturday 1/27/07 8:30am Kiwanis Park. Your last chance to sleep in, and then we head out on the Tour de Mesa. Route options of 29 miles with no climbing or 39 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Einsteins, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock.

Saturday 2/3/07 8:00am Kiwanis Park. NOTE THE TIME CHANGE! We roll into early spring with a romp around the St. Francis Loop, route options 24 miles or 36 miles, moderate climbing on both. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits

We had a near collision in the pack last week, reminding us that sometimes cyclists are their own worst enemies. You would think cars, dogs, debris, etc. would be enough challenge without us trying to wipe each other out, huh? So, you are pedaling along, approaching an intersection where you intend to turn right, but you have a red traffic light. Just like when you are in your car (or at least we hope you do it this way in your car!) you come to a stop at the red light, then check to your left to see if the lane you are going to enter is clear, before proceeding with your right turn. If there is a cyclist approaching from your left, they have the right of way as they roll through the intersection on green. You should not pull out, making your right turn in front of them, anymore than you would before an oncoming semi-truck. Rolling out from a stop into the path of a cyclist who is moving at pace is at minimum obnoxious, at maximum will hurt you both a lot.

Ride safe

January 14 Spin Cycle Report

The Polar Bike Club

Added January 16, 2007

written by Glen Fletcher

Thanks goes to Neal for leading and writing this great report.

Hello from the North Pole,

We had 9 riders -two from out of state- become members of the sub-chapter of PMBC known as the Polar Bike Club. Yes we are a subchapter S corp--for Stupid. We heard rumors that a few such as Ron W , Barry and Kirk may show but they chose to pass on membership in the PBC.

Neal your ride leader pro tem, (yes Mr Spincycle himself was a no show) Roger, Kevin, Marty, Ivan, Larry, David started the day at 29 degrees. It never got over 40! We ventured around the Ocotukee for 55 miles of cold fun. Eric from Philadelphia here visiting while at Honeywell made a good showing. Slowed a bit up 5th avenue for the last time though. Actually a pretty good pace all day and kudos to Ivan and David for good performances.

We did lose our Colorado visitor - seems to be a reoccurring thing with the pro tem ride leader.

Of course, we did have some honorary members for lunch - Ron and Sue.

Ride Schedule

1/21 - Tour de Mesa - Mileage options of 35 or 45 miles with hills on the longer route. Breakfast at Pleaissant Croissants - Rural & Elliot.

1/28 - Tour De Mummy Backwards - Mileage options of 37 or 50 miles with breakfast at US Egg on Mill & Baseline.

January 13 Saturday Cycling Report

Chilly Roll Over to South Mountain

Added January 14, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

We had 61 riders turn out in the park yesterday morning. Even the later start didn't save us from the chill, but we attempted to keep it at bay with lots of hot air. The roll over to S Mt was quick, with riders trying to over come the wind chill with cranked up body temp. A few ventured to the towers, a few more went to see San Juan, and some heard the siren call of coffee at the StoneHouse and flipped around there. A rare tailwind on Baseline made the romp back even quicker than the roll out. Arrival at Atlanta (the restaurant, not the city) brought us a rare and welcome John Arle sighting (people from Oregon sure dress funny, which is saying a lot when you are standing in the middle of 30 people dressed in flourescent lycra!). The temp outside dropped by a few degrees while we dallied ingesting caffiene, so the return to the park after was a shivery dash.

Coming up...

Saturday 1/20/07 8:30am Kiwanis Park. We return to Mummy Mountain, with route options of 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with bonus climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Saturday 1/27/07 8:30am Kiwanis Park. Off to the northeast on the Tour de Mesa, route options of 29 miles with no climbing or 39 miles with a gentle climb. Breakfast at Einsteins, northwest corner Guadalupe & McClintock.

Tid bits

Ice, ice, baby. (Admit it... you immediately have that tune stuck in your head now, huh?) Ice is a cyclist's friend and comfort in the summer. But "I.C.E." is something cyclists tend to avoid thinking about, anytime. But it is critical that you do so, now. ICE, In Case of Emergency. Do your riding friends know who to contact in the non-cycling world for you if you can't? Will medical personnel know who you are, what medical conditions you might have, and who to contact if you are not capable of telling them? If you carry a cellphone when you ride, ICE it. Program a number under the name "ICE" that is your hotline to friends/family if you can't speak for yourself. Wear ID, and not in your Camelback, it will probably be seperated from you in an accident. Something in your jersey pocket is OK, but better yet is something on you, a dog-tag style ID or bracelet. All of the bike mags advertise companies that will make those up for just a few dollars. Heck... even Vanilla Ice wore dog-tags, didn't he?

Ride safe

January 6 Saturday Cycling Report

The Boosted Up Bean Supply was Ready and Waiting

Added January 7, 2007

written by Sue Fassett

Hi All!

The sun brightly shining at least gave the illusion of warmth for the start of the romp this morning. We had 64 riders head out to the northeast, with 63 of them managing to get out of the parking lot before having a flat. Actually Tina and Steve had a flat before they even got out of their car in the parking lot. (And if you have ever had a high-pressure tire go kablooie in the enclosed space of a car... you'll understand why their hearing was a bit impaired for the rest of the morning!) We eventually got underway, with the group breaking down into various bunches, depending on who was intending to ride the century ride tomorrow and knew better than to blow their legs out today. On the return, the staff at SomeBurros was excited about having us visit and had the boosted up bean supply ready and waiting.

Coming up...

Saturday 1/13/07 8:30am Kiwanis Park. South Mountain, with options either to San Juan or up to the towers (or sitting on the wall at the StoneHouse!). Choices of 27 miles with very little climbing, 40 miles with moderate climbing, or 42 miles with lots of climbing. Breakfast at Atlanta Bread Co, southeast corner Elliot & Priest.

Saturday 1/20/07 8:30am Kiwanis Park. Since only a few hardy souls completed our last attempt at the Mummy Mountain route, we'll try this again, hopefully without the fog this time. Route options 27 miles with moderate climbing or 40 miles with bonus climbs. Breakfast at Brueggers, northwest corner Mill & 11th.

Tid bits

We were passed this morning by a couple of emergency vehicles (fortunately not coming to us!), bringing up questions about how their appearance applies to bicyclists. The answer is the same as at applies to cars. When an emergency vehicle passes, with lights and siren blaring, get as far to the right side of the pavement as you can and stop riding. If traffic is heavy, get up on to the sidewalk, if there is one. The cars diving to the right side of the road are focused on the emergency vehicle, not on you.

Ride safe and Happy New Year to all!