The Arizona Endurance Series (AES) consists of a number or grassroots, endurance races and rides. At the beginning of the year, the Antelope Peak Challenge will open the series with some little known singletrack near the town of Oracle. We have another Tucson ride, the Tortilita 50, at the beginning of February. Next up is a ride that includes the famed Ripsey ridgeline. This is a great chance to check out a remote and rarely ridden section of the AZT. In March we will be heading to Red Rock country for the Sedona Big Friggin Loop. Have you ever wanted to explore singletrack in Prescott? Come out to the Prescott Monstercross. We wrap up spring with a ride in the mountains of Flagstaff at the Aspen Asphyxiation. Then we will break until fall. First event of the fall season will be the Tusayan Tussle – up near the Grand Canyon. Then, a new addition to the calendar – Mogollon Mayhem. Next up is a 4 day stage race – Coconino 250 . The year will finish out with the Kentucky Camp, Picketpost Punisher and, Pleasantville.
There are no fees, no prizes, but all attempts will be made to record your finish time in comparison to others. The goal is to finish these challenges while setting your own pace. A start time and route are provided here and it is up to the participant to understand the route, and also have full responsibility for their navigation and well being. These are not group rides, although some people might do these as rides with friends or even other riders they meet at the start, along the route. Since the events are self-supportive, it should be understood that these are for experienced backcountry cyclists only. If you question your ability to complete such an event, it is best that you consider another option before trying one of these. Also, maps, gps devices, water filtration units, and other back country tools are methods to ensure you complete the race. Therefore it is up to you – and you alone – to ensure your safety!! The goal of the Arizona Endurance Series is to promote responsible grassroots endurance mountain biking in Arizona, and to provide a competitive outlet for the state’s current endurance racers – most of whom currently go out of state to compete. The AES will help train current endurance riders and perhaps enhance success by Arizonans in national events. We recommend that you join the Facebook site for all the updates, maps, and questions. So if you have interest, come on out and join us, and do your part to contribute to this grassroots effort! Only 74 participants can do the event, so make sure to sign up on each event page. Also, if you have any questions, you can use the comment section below each event.
Zona Cycling is one of the more established groups. They are very welcoming. The ride time and route is always changing, and they may have more than jus the Saturday Morning ride. . Send Message on facebook to Colleen who manages the page for the latest and greatest
This ride is typically between 12-15 miles. It is a no drop mountain bike ride and alternates between Vail Trails and Fantasy Island. Call the shop to make sure what the route is for the week and that they are going. https://www.bensbikestucson.com/
The shootout is the Saturday morning group ride. The ride has groups of about 20 riders in the summer and well over 100 riders in the winter and spring. The terrain is fast and rolling with two sprints and a gas station stop about halfway through. The total distance is just over 70 miles. If you’re looking for extra miles and some real climbing, watch for the turnoff to Madera Canyon on Duval Mine Road. If you want to take in the same route at a slower pace, catch the “scootout” or “old man shootout” leaving from the same starting location 15 minutes before the fast ride.
The Shootout is one of the best group bike rides in the country according to Bicycling Magazine. It is common to have pro cyclists showing up for this ride and it can be fast.
Co-founded by Ralph Philips, the owner of Fair Wheel Bikes, and University of Arizona student Bob Cook, an Olympic team member. It is one of the oldest and must do, bucket list group rides in North America.
Ride times change according to the seasons. I try an update them here, but check out Click Here for Fair Wheels for the latest info
Fair Wheel Bikes is home to some of the top group rides in the country. Fast rides are held every Tuesday and Saturday mornings. In the spring and fall, both rides are regularly attended by some of the top professional riders from the US and around the world. Rides (times below) start on University of Arizona’s west side at;
Join us on one of our Saturday morning group rides. They are very popular with the local cycling community and the regulars range in ability from racers to enthusiasts out for a fun ride.
If you have never ridden in a large group before, it can be intimidating. If you need some pointers or additional assistance, we will be glad to help. Our goal is to make your ride as enjoyable as possible.
Join our Strava club and compare your efforts to other Roundup riders. You can find our club here.
If you have never ridden in a large group before, it can be intimidating. If you need some pointers or additional assistance, we will be glad to help. Main RoundUp Group : 55.5miles at 18 -22+ mph. There are always splits and smaller groups forming.
“All store rides are designed to promote the enjoyment of cycling in a friendly group atmosphere.”
Time will change to 7:00 in late October or early November
From December through May, The Homestretch Foundation hosts “Spin with the Stretchies” group ride: Friday mornings, open to all Tucson cyclists. An easy, recovery-pace ride (15mph/22kph maximum speed!), 15 mile ride around the flat neighborhoods of Northeast Tucson, giving local/visiting cyclists a chance to chat, laugh and interact with “The Stretchies,” our pro/elite cyclists in residence at Homestretch Foundation. We ride for 60min then hang out at Le Buzz for post-ride coffee & treats. Easy pace, no drop, everyone welcome. You must wear a helmet and be comfortable riding two abreast. We start/finish at the original Le Buzz Caffe @ 9191 E Tanque Verde Rd.
December 1 through April 30th: 10a depart
May 1 – 15th: 9a depart
Rain protocol: If it’s raining lightly, we ride! If it’s raining nasty, we stay in and have coffee together at Le Buzz! Either way, it’s on.
“The mission of The Homestretch Foundation is to level the playing field of salary discrepancy in sport, so that female professional athletes have the same wages and equal opportunities as male professional athletes. Regardless of an athlete’s socioeconomic and/or life circumstances, we want all women to pursue their careers as athletes without compromise, inequality or injustice.” –Kathryn Bertine, Founder.
The Homestretch Foundation is a non-profit organization that provides temporary housing and other resources to professional or elite athletes—primarily female athletes—who face financial and economic discrepancies. In support of our mission, Homestretch Foundation:
* Assists low-income female professional athletes with free housing * Bridges the wage gap of salary inequity for women in all occupations * Provides resources and networking for post-athletic careers
* Provides opportunities for our members to thrive in their post-athletic careers
* Allows donors/members to book our facility in the off-season
We had some rainy days so I BEEFED up the ride list!
It is the most comprehensive event list for the Southwest and four corner states (and So Cal) for 2023. I’m saying this as I spent two days scouring the internet and in so doing discovered some other lists that are really good, but not at this level. Like the Borg, I have integrated all of the other lists and found links to each event. It includes Road, Mountain Bike, Gravel, Cyclocross, Bike Packing, BMX, Fat Bikes, Track, Downhill and Enduro. Over 140 races/events to choose from. It’s still a work in progress and will continue to grow as I discover new events.
This coming weekend Is one of the top five Cycling Related Events in Tucson that brings all of these groups together. It is the BICAS art Auction.Come support BICAS and help decorate your home and yard in the most classic and timeless style, Bike Art! Even I I have a piece I donated this year and it can be yours. https://bicas.org/auction/
In case you did not know, I do this list because I have a passion for cycling, but it does not pay any bills. In order to find the time to do this list all I ask is if you are thinking of buying or selling or know someone who is, please let me know. Real Estate pays the bills and I can either do traditional real estate marketing like sitting open houses and making cold calls, or provide an actual service, like this ride list. Please and Thanks.
If you know of a ride that’s not on the list, please contact me. Best is text 520-977-5664 or email damion@damionalexander.com.
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I DID NOT CONFIRM EVERY TIME, but did get in touch with most of the ride leaders and shops. You should always verify times before you head out and remember these ride times are when the ride leaves. Please show up as early as needed to make sure you are ready to roll out at the time posted.
This event is not happening. It shows how challenging it can be to put on an event. Passionate people make all of these events happen. Support them,. Race. Volunteer. Just be there.
ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES – WANT BETTER BIKE INFRASTRUCTURE? GET INVOLVED. Feel free to e-mail damion@damionalexander.com if you want to get involved and have questions on the Velodrome Committee, CASA- Cycling Advocates of Southern Arizona, GABA – Greater Arizona Bicycle Association, SDMB -Sonoran Desert Mountain Bike, TORCA – Tucson Off Road Cyclist & Activists, El Grupo Youth Cycling, El Tour De Tucson and all of it’s charity partners, Tour De Zona, Tour De Mesa, Mt. Lemmon Gravel Grinder…. Added bonus, I’ll be there and the pictures are free;-)
RIDE AND EVENT DISCLAIMER
These rides are not mine. I am only sharing the data. The Damion Alexander Team can’t guarantee anybody’s safety. There are unknown and unforeseen potential hazards in every ride so you should pay attention and take reasonable precautions. I always use a helmet. I think that helmets should be required when riding. If you choose to listen to music during rides you should only use the headset in one ear or use a bone conducting system. Better yet, buy a FarEnd Gear earbud. Communication is essential during all rides and having the ability to hear is a part of your responsibility to others. Please also ride within your limitations. You are not racing the Tour de France. If you see someone that is not riding within their limitations or are becoming a hazard to others we should politely bring this to their your attention. Do this for your and everybody’s safety.
Also, it is everybody’s responsibility to follow all traffic laws. We are not lemmings. Just because somebody does something foolish does not mean you need to follow. Use your head and enjoy your ride.
THE DAMION ALEXANDER TEAM, DAMION ALEXANDER, AND ANYONE ELSE WHO CONTRIBUTES TO THIS LIST SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ACCIDENT OR INJURY THAT OCCURS ON THSES RIDES. EVERY PERSON IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF OTHERS AROUND THEM
Each week I’m beefing up the ride list and I could use your help. Please Let me know what is missing.
I added some great events to the ride list this week that are coming up in the next few months. Cyclovia. GABA Bike Swap. Dirty Bunny MTB race. I also put in links to contact Cycle Fit and Zona Cycling about there rides. They are not “open” to everyone, unless you contact them first.
One of my favorite events is finally returning and I’m most excited to announce the return of the BICAS art auction. The BICAS Annual Art Auction needs your help to prepare for this amazing community event. BICAS is seeking bicycle-inspired artworks & art created from bicycle parts. All mediums are accepted as long as it’s bike-themed! This is a great opportunity for artists to show off their art while donating to a good cause. To donate include your name and contact info. Please make your art ready to display by including any wall hangers, frames, or display stands. Donations are accepted in our shop any time during open hours by Dec. 1st.For more info about the art auction visit: https://bicas.org/auction/
If you know of a ride that’s not on the list, please contact me. Best is text 520-977-5664 or email damion@damionalexander.com.
This week the ride I’m recommending is Tour of The White Mountains.
I DID NOT CONFIRM EVERY TIME, but did get in touch with most of the ride leaders and shops. You should always verify times before you head out and remember these ride times are when the ride leaves. Please show up as early as needed to make sure you are ready to roll out at the time posted.
The Arizona Endurance Series rides have not set dates for 2022. I’ll add them as the promoters share them. The website is https://rockyroad5050.wordpress.com/ The weak need not apply.
ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES – WANT BETTER BIKE INFRASTRUCTURE? GET INVOLVED. Feel free to e-mail damion@damionalexander.com if you want to get involved and have questions on the Velodrome Committee, CASA- Cycling Advocates of Southern Arizona, GABA – Greater Arizona Bicycle Association, SDMB -Sonoran Desert Mountain Bike, TORCA – Tucson Off Road Cyclist & Activists, El Grupo Youth Cycling, El Tour De Tucson and all of it’s charity partners, Tour De Zona, Tour De Mesa, Mt. Lemmon Gravel Grinder…. Added bonus, I’ll be there and the pictures are free;-)
RIDE AND EVENT DISCLAIMER
These rides are not mine. I am only sharing the data. The Damion Alexander Team can’t guarantee anybody’s safety. There are unknown and unforeseen potential hazards in every ride so you should pay attention and take reasonable precautions. I always use a helmet. I think that helmets should be required when riding. If you choose to listen to music during rides you should only use the headset in one ear or use a bone conducting system. Better yet, buy a FarEnd Gear earbud. Communication is essential during all rides and having the ability to hear is a part of your responsibility to others. Please also ride within your limitations. You are not racing the Tour de France. If you see someone that is not riding within their limitations or are becoming a hazard to others we should politely bring this to their your attention. Do this for your and everybody’s safety.
Also, it is everybody’s responsibility to follow all traffic laws. We are not lemmings. Just because somebody does something foolish does not mean you need to follow. Use your head and enjoy your ride.
THE DAMION ALEXANDER TEAM, DAMION ALEXANDER, AND ANYONE ELSE WHO CONTRIBUTES TO THIS LIST SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ACCIDENT OR INJURY THAT OCCURS ON THSES RIDES. EVERY PERSON IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF OTHERS AROUND THEM
WHERE DO ALL THE RIDES COME FROM? These links and shops and clubs and teams and facebook and YOU. See a ride that is missing. Please let me know Damion@DamionAlexadner.com. Thanks
This list is a major time commitment and it is my pleasure to put it together. All I ask in return for the list is that you remember I’m A REALTOR. If you have a relationship with another REALTOR, I love loyalty and respect those relationships. However, if not, or if you need a second opinion, Please keep me in mind. Many agents spend money advertising for new business, others sit open houses or cold call. My business is based on referrals from past clients and friends. The less time I have to do traditional prospecting the more I can do for the cycling community. For example: this list.
THIS LIST IS PROVIDED AT A COURTESY OF THE DAMION ALEXANDER TEAM. THIS LIST IS DEEMED RELIABLE, BUT NOT GUARANTEED. WHEN POSSIBLE, CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE GROUP RIDERS ARE PROVIDED. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND DOUBLE CHECK OR GO TO THE RIDE AND IF NO ONE IS THERE, GO RIDE BY YOURSELF.
It’s been a hot minute since I put out the ride list. It seemed that every time I was about to do it there was a spike in COVID. Even though the risk of getting Covid on a bike was unlikely, to me, encouraging people to gather was not the responsible to do. At some point, we need to all go on living our lives and while some people may not be interested in being in a group of any sort, I feel that it is past time to give others the option to meet. Since it’s been sometime the list is somewhat anemic. Many of the weekly rides stopped for COVID and never started again. If you know of a ride that’s not on the list, please contact me. Best is text 520-977-5664 or email damion@damionalexander.com.
This week the three rides I personally would check out are Loop The Loop on Saturday, Bicycle Raches Crit races on Sunday as well as Our MTB Loma aAlta to Pistol Hill on Sunday.
__ __o ___ `\<?
__(_)/ (_)_____________
I DID NOT CONFIRM EVERY TIME, but did get in touch with most of the ride leaders and shops. You should always verify times before you head out and remember these ride times are when the ride leaves. Please show up as early as needed to make sure you are ready to roll out at the time posted.
The Arizona Endurance Series rides have not set dates for 2022. I’ll add them as the promoters share them. The website is https://rockyroad5050.wordpress.com/ The weak need not apply.
ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES – WANT BETTER BIKE INFRASTRUCTURE? GET INVOLVED. Feel free to e-mail damion@damionalexander.com if you want to get involved and have questions on the Velodrome Committee, CASA- Cycling Advocates of Southern Arizona, GABA – Greater Arizona Bicycle Association, SDMB -Sonoran Desert Mountain Bike, TORCA – Tucson Off Road Cyclist & Activists, El Grupo Youth Cycling, El Tour De Tucson and all of it’s charity partners, Tour De Zona, Tour De Mesa, Mt. Lemmon Gravel Grinder…. Added bonus, I’ll be there and the pictures are free;-)
RIDE AND EVENT DISCLAIMER
These rides are not mine. I am only sharing the data. The Damion Alexander Team can’t guarantee anybody’s safety. There are unknown and unforeseen potential hazards in every ride so you should pay attention and take reasonable precautions. I always use a helmet. I think that helmets should be required when riding. If you choose to listen to music during rides you should only use the headset in one ear or use a bone conducting system. Better yet, buy a FarEnd Gear earbud. Communication is essential during all rides and having the ability to hear is a part of your responsibility to others. Please also ride within your limitations. You are not racing the Tour de France. If you see someone that is not riding within their limitations or are becoming a hazard to others we should politely bring this to their your attention. Do this for your and everybody’s safety.
Also, it is everybody’s responsibility to follow all traffic laws. We are not lemmings. Just because somebody does something foolish does not mean you need to follow. Use your head and enjoy your ride.
THE DAMION ALEXANDER TEAM, DAMION ALEXANDER, AND ANYONE ELSE WHO CONTRIBUTES TO THIS LIST SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ACCIDENT OR INJURY THAT OCCURS ON THSES RIDES. EVERY PERSON IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF OTHERS AROUND THEM
WHERE DO ALL THE RIDES COME FROM? These links and shops and clubs and teams and facebook and YOU. See a ride that is missing. Please let me know Damion@DamionAlexadner.com. Thanks
This list is a major time commitment and it is my pleasure to put it together. All I ask in return for the list is that you remember I’m A REALTOR. If you have a relationship with another REALTOR, I love loyalty and respect those relationships. However, if not, or if you need a second opinion, Please keep me in mind. Many agents spend money advertising for new business, others sit open houses or cold call. My business is based on referrals from past clients and friends. The less time I have to do traditional prospecting the more I can do for the cycling community. For example: this list.
THIS LIST IS PROVIDED AT A COURTESY OF THE DAMION ALEXANDER TEAM. THIS LIST IS DEEMED RELIABLE, BUT NOT GUARANTEED. WHEN POSSIBLE, CONTACT INFORMATION FOR THE GROUP RIDERS ARE PROVIDED. TAKE RESPONSIBILITY AND DOUBLE CHECK OR GO TO THE RIDE AND IF NO ONE IS THERE, GO RIDE BY YOURSELF.
It’s Mountain Bike season in the Old Pueblo as many people are gearing up for the 24 Hours in the Old Pueblo. Need wood for your camp site? I had to take down a eucalyptus tree last year and have seasoned wood. If you need some, feel free to drop me a line.
I said this in the last ride list, but feel compelled to restate it. I’m reticent about putting out the ride list with COVID on the rise, but feel it’s your choice if you want to be in a group. I do hope that those who are feeling any symptoms avoid groups and if the ride heads inside for beverages you respect social distancing and local laws on masks.
In creating this list I’m amazed how many rides are still not happening. Others are back, but have asked not to publicly share at this time. I’m sure I’m missing some rides and events, so please text me at 520-977-5664 or email Damion@DamionAlexander.com if you know of something that should be on this list. I’m sure with each week the list will be enhanced.
Damion
I DID NOT CONFIRM EVERY TIME, but did get in touch with most of the ride leaders and shops. You should always verify times before you head out and remember these ride times are when the ride leaves. Please show up as early as needed to make sure you are ready to roll out at the time posted.
Green / Blue – Pretty Easy Technically speaking – Mild to Mid grade grinding climbs with super fun fast flowy downhill) 1.5-2 hours
https://www.facebook.com/events/996019047994153
– “Dirt Divas” @ Ironwood Loop in Tucson Mtn Park A Women Specific #OldPuebloMTB
Ironwood Picnic Area
MONDAY AT 9:30 AM – 11:30 AM MON 1/17
60-90 minutes A “Dirt Divas” ride – A women specific MTB Ride ! Trail selection good for a variety of levels, a great place to connect with like minded MTB Women in Tucson
https://www.facebook.com/events/617793349474070
Unofficial #24HOP Pre-Ride w/ Bicycle Ranch
Willow Springs)
Sunday January 23 AND Feb 3rd, 2022 9 AM – 12 PM
Ride at you pace. The loop is about 16 miles with options to cut back in the middle or throw down 3 or 4 laps
https://www.facebook.com/events/464191938645540
SDMB 24hop Pre-ride weekend
Willow Springs
JAN 29 AT 8 AM – JAN 30 AT 11 AM
Saturday we will have a course maintenance day from 9am-12pm. Then have a fundraiser spaghetti dinner 5pm for SDMB.
The Arizona Endurance Series rides have not set dates for 2022. I’ll add them as the promoters share them. The website is https://rockyroad5050.wordpress.com/ The weak need not apply.
ADVOCACY OPPORTUNITIES – WANT BETTER BIKE INFRASTRUCTURE? GET INVOLVED. Feel free to e-mail damion@damionalexander.com if you want to get involved and have questions on the Velodrome Committee, CASA- Cycling Advocates of Southern Arizona, GABA – Greater Arizona Bicycle Association, SDMB -Sonoran Desert Mountain Bike, TORCA – Tucson Off Road Cyclist & Activists, El Grupo Youth Cycling, El Tour De Tucson and all of it’s charity partners, Tour De Zona, Tour De Mesa, Mt. Lemmon Gravel Grinder…. Added bonus, I’ll be there and the pictures are free;-)
RIDE AND EVENT DISCLAIMER
These rides are not mine. I am only sharing the data. The Damion Alexander Team can’t guarantee anybody’s safety. There are unknown and unforeseen potential hazards in every ride so you should pay attention and take reasonable precautions. I always use a helmet. I think that helmets should be required when riding. If you choose to listen to music during rides you should only use the headset in one ear or use a bone conducting system. Better yet, buy a FarEnd Gear earbud. Communication is essential during all rides and having the ability to hear is a part of your responsibility to others. Please also ride within your limitations. You are not racing the Tour de France. If you see someone that is not riding within their limitations or are becoming a hazard to others we should politely bring this to their your attention. Do this for your and everybody’s safety.
Also, it is everybody’s responsibility to follow all traffic laws. We are not lemmings. Just because somebody does something foolish does not mean you need to follow. Use your head and enjoy your ride.
THE DAMION ALEXANDER TEAM, DAMION ALEXANDER, AND ANYONE ELSE WHO CONTRIBUTES TO THIS LIST SPECIFICALLY DISCLAIM RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ACCIDENT OR INJURY THAT OCCURS ON THSES RIDES. EVERY PERSON IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THEIR OWN SAFETY AND THE SAFETY OF OTHERS AROUND THEM
