All posts by bikepilgrim

The Business Builder Bike Ride (BBBR)

September 3, 2013Established Group Rides, Mountain Bikebikepilgrim

This ride is the brainchild of two of the most creative and professional businessmen in Tucson, Matt and Brandon Blair from Cirrus Visual. Some people just have it all together. From family, business, fitness, friends, community involvement and everything else they are a part of. I have seen many rides start and fail, but this ride just gets better and bigger each month.

The BBBR is a monthly gathering and alternates between Sweetwater Preserve and Fantasy Island. The format is to do a quick pre-ride meet and greet. This is limited mostly to who you are and what you do professionally. Then we get on our bikes and ride. Post ride beer, hangin’ out trail side, and a call for any upcoming events that we are working on and care to share.

This is how Cirrus Visual describes the BBBR. “If you haven’t heard about this event, think of it as business networking on your bike. Some people do business on the golf course…we love to ride our mountain bikes, and know there are other business professionals like us.

Whether you like to ride fast, or are just venturing into the dirt, all riding levels are welcome! Just bring your bike, helmet and business cards, and we’ll bring the post-ride refreshments. Join us this month and bring a friend – new riders are what keep this event growing!”

Personally, this is one of my favorite rides based on the location, people, scenery, networking and beer. If you want to go really fast, there is still someone faster. If you are affectionately known as “the turtle” you will not be left out on the trail by yourself. Since we start and stop in the same place and the trails we use have extra loops for those who want extra credit everyone can get in the ride they want and still not feel like they are being left out or left behind. Also, beer, FREE beer from Borderland brewery hoppily greets you at the end of the ride. Is this really networking or just an excuse to cut out of work, ride bikes and drink beer? I have sold 3 homes as a direct result of this ride.

You can sign up for an automatic invite at http://www.cirrusvisual.com/teamcirrus/bizandbikes.html or look up Cirrus Visual on Facebook.

Check out the photo album from the August BBBT on my facebook fan page. The Damion Alexander Team (PLEASE Like it) https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10153199700020154.1073741946.228735085153&type=1

Don’t go down that road- It’s closed

August 30, 2013The LoopBikepilgrim, bikepilgrim.com, construction, Road closures, Road/Trail Closures, trail closed, trail workbikepilgrim

On August 30, 2013 rolling reporter James McKenzie said

Tucson Bicyclists: Warning: Julian Wash between Kolb and Rita Ranch is CLOSED due to construction. There are baricades on the Rita Ranch side but not at the entryway on Kolb (well not blocking the bikeway). There was a dump truck, Bobcat and other ‘stuff’ working to repair the washouts from earlier this year. And I found out the hard way, I rode down it…

A special place in Hell

August 30, 2013Uncategorizedbikepilgrim

I believe in Hell. I believe there is a special area in hell dedicated to bike thieves. They are destined for an eternal torture that includes a never ending headwind, golf ball sized hail, acid rain that boils the skin, no hydration, bonking, a corner store just ahead, but they never can reach it, a crank that slips on every rotation, saddle soars, occasional blasts of artic air that freeze to the bone marrow followed by extreme heat that causes a tingling sensation that is best described as having their skin stripped one layer at a time. Actually, I think it is much harsher, but I really don’t want to disturb my readers with graphic images.

Why am I off on the Bike thief tangent? Unfortunately, yet another Tucson cycling family was violated last night.

Stephanie and David Raine use their bikes as their primary form of transporation. They live in Sam Hughes near 4^th and Tucson. On the night of August 30^th, 2013 they had three bikes stolen from their home. Please keep an eye out for the following bikes. As I get more details on each I’ll update this post.

If you have info please contact Stephanie at scbegonias@gmail.com or call 520.271.7377

Bike 1- 1996 bontrager privateer comp.

Best photo at this time of the 1996 bontrager privateer comp.

Bike 2- Gt Dyno Moto Glide Kustom Kruiser Purple

Bike 3- Surly Crosscheck

2011 54cm Surly Crosscheck frame. It was built using Shimano 105 ST-5600 Shifters where the brakes and shifters are in same movement. It has a Shimano 105 RD-5600 rear derailleur with a matching Shimano 105 front derailleur. It uses a Shimano 105 CS-5600 cassette in the back which is 10 speeds and a Shimano Tiagra FC-4500 52T-39T Chainring in the front. The Chainring runs on a Hollow-II Shimano 105 FC-5600 bottom bracket with a KMC DX10Sc chain. A Canecreek headset is fitted to some FSA handlebars and there are Richey Speedmax Comp tires 700x35c for comfort and durability and Shimano Ultegra PD-6610 SPD-SL pedals. The brakes are Tektro Oryx with Kool-Stop Salmon Pads.

What happens when a cyclist breaks his back?

August 29, 2013Uncategorizedbike, Dodge bridge, Dodge road, Improvements, Roads just got better, The Loopbikepilgrim

There is going to be one less road hazard this weekend on the roads of Tucson. The Dodge Bridge, just south of River is getting some new asphalt. For years a 3 plus inch wide separation between curb and road has beckoned tires like a streetcar track.

The gap is clearly visible between the green bike lane and the curb. Crews power washing in preparation of the new concrete.

Earlier this summer a county employee caught his tire in the crack and had a severe collision with the ground. It was because of this that the county finally took action to have it repaired. They were aware of the issue for the past 6 years, but were told by engineers that it could not be remedied due to drainage issues. Apparently, as a result of this tragedy, they were able to discover a fix for getting water off the bridge and closing the gat. It is sad that this summer someone had to break their back in order to get the county to take action.

Do you know of anywhere in the area that the road posses a risk to cyclist? Let me know and I’ll inform Pima county. If enough of us are vocal, we will see change.

New Bike Friendly Laws – Can it happen?

August 28, 2013Bike Friendly Laws3 foot passing, bike advocate, Ethan Orr, idaho stops, Laws, stTE hOUSE OF REPRESENTIVESbikepilgrim

This morning I met with State Representative Ethan Orr to discuss bicycle friendly legislation that might be introduced next session. Bob Morken Jr. also joined us.

Last year two bills were introduced into the state legislature that related to cycling, but both did not make it past committee. In addition to discussing what bills he would support we also talked about what strategy he would use to actually get them passed. On that front, Otto von Bismarck said it best “Laws are like sausages, it is better not to see them being made.”

The great news is that we had no shortage of ideas. Many were discussed, but did not make the list as they are not in the state legislators control. Others would be great if Bikes were the dominant mode of transportation, but at this time are not practical and would never be passed. The following list are the ideas we think might stand a chance of becoming law.

1- One idea definitely seemed to garnish the most attention from people I polled before the meeting. It was the Idaho Stop. This would allow cyclist to yield at stop signs. There is considerable research to show most bicycle accidents happen in intersections. Allowing bikes to coast though will actually reduce those numbers.

2- The fines that cars face for breaking the existing laws are not very tough at this time. If you look at DUI tickets they progressively get more expensive for repeat offenders. The same should be in place for the 3 foot law and other bike related laws.

3- Allow video/media evidence to be used in ticketing unsafe and illegal driving.

4- Drivers education and looking at the existing questions on the license to include more about bicycle related laws and the rights of cyclist on the road. Additional literature sent out with yearly vehicle registrations alerting drivers of all new laws pertaining to driving.

5- A law that will legally allow cars to cross a double yellow line in order to give the cyclist 3 feet.
Based on many questions that Ethan asked it became clear that I am not an expert on what the existing laws are. There is definitely a need to be educated before we go any farther. Also, we talked about national organizations like Bikes Belong and the League of American Bicyclist. Perhaps they have a template available and/or knowledge of other bills that have worked across the country.

One additional point that we went over that consumes my mind is how do we engage the cyclists, YOU, to pick up the phones, e-mail, and tell their elected officials when they have an issue. Are you willing to take action when we ask for it? Are you willing to step up now? The answer must be YES if we really want to see a change.

A special thanks to Rep. Orr for meeting with Bob and I to discuss this. I have known Ethan for nearly 20 years, I do not agree with him on many policy issues, but have a great respect for his willingness to listen to all of the stake holders. It was very clear in this discussion today that this is not about Republican, Democrat, Independent or Green but about a shared concern for the safety of the people of Arizona.

*** I had one additional idea on the list, but it was not included in the discussion, but I expect it will be at the next meeting. That is the Vulnerable User Law. This law would have mandatory sentencing for distracted drivers who inflict a serious injury or death of a vulnerable road user.

Tucson makes #2 in top 20 cities

August 27, 2013Uncategorizedbikepilgrim

The website greatist.com published their annual top 20 cities for 20-somethings. I was pleasantly surprised to see Tucson at #2. Today also marked the arrival of the first streetcar in Tucson. There is a buzz that has existed in our community in the 25 years I have lived here. The following is from the article and at the bottom I have commented on the links that they provided as reference.

“When we released last year’s list of the top 20 cities for 20-somethings, some readers were pleased and some were less so. We were looking for ultra-cool spots where young adults could find jobs they love, unwind at happy hours, join sports leagues, and make new pals. This year we’ve updated that list, and many of the cities you suggested met our new criteria. In general, it’s hard to pinpoint what qualities 20-somethings go for in picking the perfect city. There are common factors such as cleanliness, park space, and efficient transit systems, but this year we expanded our scope: Does a city provide ethnic and cultural diversity? Can you walk in peace or are the streets packed with cars? We compiled this year’s list taking into account as many factors as we could to bring you the most accurate list of healthy cities for 20-somethings. Read on for our 2013 picks, presented in reverse alphabetical order, and let us know: Did we include your favorite?

2. Tucson, AZ
Average Temp (High, Low): 82, 55
Per capita Income: $20,460
Average Rent for 1-Bedroom Apt: $669
Population: 524,295
Median Age: 33
Take a deeeeep breath. Tucson is one of the cleanest cities in the U.S., as measured by year-round particle pollution. That should come in handy when we’re panting heavily on a bike, hike, or simple jog. Surrounded by mountain ranges, this year-round sunny city is the place for outdoor activity aficionados, especially cyclists. A program called “Bicycle Boulevards” helps turn city streets into safe pathways for bikers. And unlike some of the other cities on this list (cough New York cough), Tucson’s not a place where we’ll end up blowing our whole paycheck: The city’s been rated one of the most affordable places to rent an apartment. Spend some of that extra dough at the restaurants, bars, and boutiques in the historic Fourth Avenue district.”

My thoughts on the links
On the affordability scale I feel after traveling this summer to Utah and Colorado just how good we have it. Our organic produce is less than the cheapest produce. Gasoline in Tucson is .50-.75 cheaper. Eating out, going to the bar, every time you go out in Tucson it just costs less. Rents and home prices are very low. I needed to leave Tucson to appreciate this. http://www.apartmentguide.com/blog/get-more-apartment-for-less-money-in-these-top-metros-infographic/

OK, the concept of the bike boulevards are good, but there are even better resources and examples of what is good about biking. The loop I think is better for commuters. The 6 foot shoulders that are covering hundreds of miles in Southern Arizona are better then any of the boulevards. Howe Actually, the Bike boulevard on 4th and Fontana is mostly unpleasant in terms of road quality and views. However, the concept is good, traffic calming is great, and with time and money they will improve. http://cms3.tucsonaz.gov/projects/bicycle-boulevards

Tucson is number 8 for year round Particle pollution according the American Lung Association. http://www.stateoftheair.org/2013/city-rankings/cleanest-cities.html

This is what they used to talk about the mountains. http://www.outsideonline.com/adventure-travel/best-towns/Tucson- Arizona.

As you might know, I like bikes. So when I keep seeing Tucson ranked in the top cities and the articles reference bikes as a reason, I get very excited. I wish they would say more, because there are so many incredible bike activities, commuting, races, recreation and the list goes on. The government gets it and have done an outstanding job with the pushing of a dedicated community. http://www.bicycling.com/ride-maps/featured-rides/12-tucson-az

The #2 ranking was a reverse alphabetical placement. I know, this should be at the top of the article, but it was brought to my attention after I originally published this.

Tu Nidito Ride for a Child

August 26, 2013Charity Eventcharity, el tour de tucson, Ride for a child, Tu Niditobikepilgrim

Launched in 2008, Ride for a Child is a special fundraising program that pairs El Tour cyclists with Tu Nidito children whose lives have been impacted by serious illness or the death of someone they love.

Participating cyclists pledge to raise $500 or more for Tu Nidito as part of their El Tour ride. Each Ride for a Child cyclist rides and fundraises in honor of a specific Tu Nidito child, putting a face and story to their fundraising effort and Tu Nidito’s mission. With the support of Ride for a Child cyclists, who raise over $100,000 for Tu Nidito annually, we can realize our vision of a community where no child grieves alone.

As part of the Ride for a Child program, cyclists receive…

• The story and photo of a Tu Nidito child to ride for,
• Free entry into the 31st El Tour (paid by Tu Nidito),
• A Ride for a Child jersey,
• A customizable fundraising webpage,
• An El Tour event t-shirt and poster,
• Regular Ride for a Child group rides,
• And the satisfaction of supporting a Tu Nidito child when it matters most.

Personally, I have been a part of the Ride For A Child program and a supporter of Tu Nidito for the past five years. No other organization has touched me as deeply as Tu Nidito. In addition to doing good for a wonderful cause, it has also been a great opportunity to bond with other cyclist in Tucson. Register now at http://www.tunidito.org/register-online

Another At”tack” near Catalina Highway

August 26, 2013Uncategorizedbike, Cycling, Mt. Lemmon, Reward, tack, Tacksbikepilgrim

This following is from a letter I was CCéd on about another incident of tacks on the road near Catalina Highway. This time on Snyder. Just a reminder, we have created a fund that has $2,869 dollars for info that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) putting tacks on the road. If you want to donate to the fund, contact me, Damion Alexander, at damion@damionalexander.com or call 520-977-5664. If you have info on the tacks call the Pima County Sherriff dept.

Another tack in the road on August 25,2013

My wife and I both flatted from silver colored tacks while riding our road bikes @ 8am today on Snyder Rd. We estimate that we ran over the tacks 1000 yrds west of Catalina hwy. There is no shoulder on this road, we were riding approximately a foot from the edge of the road when we both heard the tires clicking and then went flat. We did not see anyone near the road or a parked car etc, or someone capable of throwing them. Cyclists ride this road everyday, we would assume the tacks were placed on the road recently.

We have also had flats from gold colored tacks thrown on the bike shoulder on Catalina hwy northbound near Snyder earlier this spring. This is the first tack incident that we know of in this area since the tacks issue appeared on the tv news a few months ago and a reward offered. The silver colored tacks are virtually impossible to see on the road while riding.

Regards

Brian

TPD Citation for Bike Rack blocking license plate

August 26, 2013UncategorizedARS 28-2534, Bike racks, License plate, Obsured plate, Ordinary Bike Shop, Police, Ticset, Tucson, written citationbikepilgrim

The man, delaying me on the drive home.

I was heading home from El Grupo practice this weekend and saw the red and blue lights in the rear view mirror. I was somewhat surprised to see them as I was traveling under the speed limit on an empty road. The offence, obscured license plate by bikes and bike rack.

Clearly, with two bikes on the rack it was impossible to make out the plate. I deserved a ticket based on the law. Fortunately, I was only given a written warning. However, it has made me look at my rack and realize there is no way I can use it and drive “legally”. I own three bike racks and all of them are illegal.

I talked to David Tang, The owner of Ordinary Bike Shop to see if he sells a rear mounted rack that will not block a license plate. David said “This has been an issue with rear mount racks for decades, there are none that allow the plate to be clearly visible when loaded with bikes. The license plate can be moved to a visible location with an aftermarket product”. He went on to say “a few racks allow plates to be seen, but some vehicles have weird plate locations, but those are the exceptions”.

I contacted Ryan Roher with the Pima County Sheriff Dept. for a comment and he directed me to look at ARS 28-2354B3. In a nutshell it says “A person shall display the license plate or plates as follows… so it is clearly legible … In a position to be clearly visible.”

In searching the web for examples of how to deal with this issue I found a solution from Barb Berle. “I now have a lighted license plate holder securely attached to my hitch rack in a position that is highly visible while traveling with bicycles. Since the State of Arizona will not issue a second license plate of the same number, all I have to do is remove my plate from the car and place it in the bike rack holder – easy and secure.” Good idea, if you leave the rack on 24/7 or are OK to remove and reattach your license plate every time you remove your rack. I expect the chances are better of be cited for no plate when you forget the plate on the rack.

There is one positive side to obscuring the plate. If you have the photo cameras snap a photo of you, they can not ticket you. I’m not saying this has happened to me(more then once), but perhaps it is part of the equation in weighting if you want to risk driving with obscured plates.

On a side note, I am meeting with Arizona House of Rep Ethan Orr this week to discuss possible laws that will benefit the cycling community. Perhaps a solution to this exists. Do you have any ideas?

Stolen Bike-Specialized Pitch

August 23, 2013Uncategorized2008 Specialized Pitch, criagslist, theifbikepilgrim

I got a call about my Specialized Pitch, but the man on the line was preoccupied and didn’t really seem to know much about bikes. He asked if I could meet him to check out my bike. I met up with the guy 45 minutes after the call at the Safeway on Campbell and Prince. He asked if he could ride the bike and I let him in exchange for his car keys. Of course he disappeared and I didn’t have my bike registered with TPD. When I met him he mentioned looking at other nice bikes on criagslist. This dude is white, about 5’10” with a buzzed head and was wearing a blue COX cable Polo, khakis, and dress shoes. The key he gave me appears to be for a Mazda but none was present in the parking lot at the time. Please don’t let this happen to you and if you see my bike around call the cops. I have a picture and will post a list of parts. Lets make sure the bike Gods fuck this dude up.

2008 Specialized Pitch
Components List:
Fork: RockShox Pike 327, 140mm travel
Rear Shock:Fox RP2, 150mm travel (upgrade)
Brakeset: Avid Juicy 3 SL w/203mm rotor front/Avid Juicy 3 SL w/185mm rotor rear brakes
Shift Levers; SRAM X.9 trigger
Front Derailleur: Shimano SLX
Rear Derailleur: SRAM X.9
Crankset: Shimano Deore LX, w/ bash guard
Pedals: Specialized Lo Pro Mag
Rear Cogs: 9-speed, 11 – 34 teeth
Seatpost: Race Face Deus (upgrade)
Handlebar : Easton Monkey Bars
Stem: KCNC Flight
Headset: 1 1/8″ Threadless
Wheels:
Front: Mavic DEETRACKS
Rear: DT Swiss 445D, 32-hole
Tires : 26 x 2.30″ Specialized Eskar Sport

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