frontpage350road
Cyclerides.com Weekly Update
9/19/12
 
Greetings Riders,
 
Well, it is definitely getting close to prime time riding here in Phoenix. Predicted highs around 100 and low of 70’s for this week and then even a high of 87 on October 1st. Gotta love that. By the attendance of the Cyclerides.Com Westgate Bike Night last week it looks like people are looking for any excuse to get out on their bikes because it was really packed for the opening night of the season. Looking forward to the cooler nights to really enjoy some fall riding to bike nights. The first Mixteca Friday Bike Night was full as well and I am looking forward to riding over to Mad Dog Saloon on Tuesday Night to kick their Tuesday Bike Night off for the Fall.
 
Riding up North is also going to be spectacular. We rode up through Page Springs Rd. to Cottonwood and then 89A up through Sedona and Flagstaff on Saturday and it was awesome. Forgot how pretty that ride is. Will give you some photos and map on the Page Springs rd. to Flagstaff in a couple of weeks. In the meantime, check out this classic photo that I accidently got of Mrs. C. giving the wave to 2 oncoming bikers with them waving back. Click Here to View.
 
This past Labor Day Mrs. C. and I decided to get out on a 4 day ride to Colorado before it starts snowing up there. The Four Corners Rally was also taking place, but that is not one that we typically participate in, however it is nice to see all of the bikes on the road during that run. Our goal on this particular trip was to go to the Gateway Auto Museum in Gateway, Colorado. This destination has been on my radar for about 4 years now and due to the remote location of the place, I’ve just not been able to get there until now. However, if I had known it was that good, I would have made it happen much sooner. So this is going to be a 2 part letter coming to you over the next two weeks starting with the unexpectedly fantastic Hwy. 141 that takes you to Gateway, CO.
 
Our destination on Day 1 was to be Telluride, CO. which is approximately 540 miles from our house. We left at 6:30 AM and pulled into Telluride at about 6:45 PM Colorado time with the time change of losing an hour. So it ended up being a good 11 hour plus day, which was perfect. The evening clouds were starting to roll in, the deer were showing up along side the road and it was starting to get cool as the sun dropped below the mountains. We rode to our motel, the Mountainside Inn just 2 blocks off of Main St. took a good hot soak in the hot tub to loosen up the muscles from a long day and then walked downtown to our favorite restaurant, “Rustico Ristorante” authentic Italian. Give it a try if you are there. It just so happens this was the same weekend as the Telluride Film Festival, so the town was buzzing. Take a look at this pic of downtown Telluride at night. Click Here.
 
After dinner it was back to the motel to get rested up for an early departure on Saturday morning to finally get to see the car museum that had been alluding us the last 4 years. Gateway is 100 miles NW of Telluride by way of Hwy. 145 to Hwy. 141 through the small town of Naturita. Hwy. 141 was one of those roads that I was anxious to ride because I had been told that it was good, but not even looking at a Google satellite map or flying it in Google Earth prepared me for the epic visual experience that we were about to embark upon following breakfast at Los Jilbertos in Naturita.
 
Heading North out of Naturita just a few miles down the road you make your first sweeping curve around the granite walled mountain with the San Miguel River tracking you on your right and the view of red rocks just ahead. At this point you will start to sense that the Unaweep/Tabeguache Scenic and Historic Byway is a very special place and that this is going to be a great ride. Now that this road has your full attention, what you don’t know is that the best is yet to come.
 
You will soon make a gradual 1000 foot decent from 5500 feet into the Unaweep Canyon where you will be flanked by shear red rock walls on both sides all while being shadowed by the San Miguel river that appears to be guiding you along your journey before handing off that task to the Dolores River that will usher you to Gateway. The lush green valley floor dotted with Aspens and Cottonwoods are a perfect compliment to the red rocks leading to the tops of the towering granite mountaintops that are mesmerizing you as make your way around the next turn.
 
Mrs. C. and I were both so awestruck by the raw beauty this Scenic Byway that all we could say was WOW! The beauty from the seat of a motorcycle was so breathtaking that you just wanted time to stand still so that you could absorb every bit of what you were seeing. It became just one fantastic view of shear red rock walls after another that seemed to reach 1000 foot above as we serpentine our way along this asphalt nirvana anticipating what would be beyond the next turn, almost making it hard to decide what to focus on next. And this goes on for 50 MILES! We just rode through Sedona and it is beautiful, but for a motorcycle rider, this road takes the riding experience to a whole other level and is the gift that keeps on giving, again and again.
 
One point of historical interest along the way is the Hanging Flume. In 1889-1890, crews built a wooden flume on the side of the shear cliff to deliver water to a mining project. The mine went bust and the flume was left to rot on the canyon walls. Portions of the flume are still there and you will wonder how in the heck they ever pulled this off. Pretty amazing especially for back then. You will find this approximately 24 miles North of Naturita. There is a pull off area to stop and look. This web site has some interesting background and close up photos of the Hanging Flume. Click Here.
 
We have ridden all over Colorado. The mountains in the Central part of the state are awesome, the beauty is undeniable and can be ridden over and over. But if you venture off to the West side of the State along Hwy. 141 you might be surprised at what Colorado has borrowed from Utah in terms of Red Rock and sandstone beauty as Gateway lies just 6 miles from the Utah border. The geology is that is exposed for all to see is interesting for all to see and try to understand.
 
As you crest the hill and pop out of the canyon into Gateway Canyons resort you will be greeted by an adobe styled multimillion dollar resort framed by the towering red sandstone landmark – The Palisade. Looking to the West horizon you will see the 12,000 foot peaks of Utah’s La Sal Mountains giving this resort a comfortable feel. Gateway Canyons offers many outdoor activities including mountain biking, fly fishing, hiking, off-road touring, air tours, Dolores River adventures as well as the Gateway Canyon Spa on site. This is also the location of the Gateway Car Museum. I will be following up next week with my report on the OUTSTANDING Gateway Auto Museum.
 
As a side note, a few years ago we took Hwy. 141 south of Naturita to Delores. While it is a good road and worth doing, if you have one shot at it, definitely take the road north of Naturita. I hear it is even good all the way up to Grand Junction. On this particular day, we turned around and gladly went back the same way we came on our way to Durango. Doing this road twice in the same day is a real treat. I have also included photos of the Million Dollar Highway in the gallery below.
 
Click Here for 124 Beautiful Photos of Hwy. 141 and the Million Dollar Highway. (Click Fullscreen for best viewing.)
Click Here for Map from Telluride to Gateway. Zoom in for details of road.
 
Useful Links:
Mile by mile sites to see on Hwy. 141
Unaweep Tabeguache Scenic Byway
Unaweep Canyon – Another resource.
The Hanging Flume Story and Photos.
 

Tidbits and Updates:
 
**In 2 weeks I will bring you a couple of new routes to get to the Durango area that you probably don’t know about that put some sizzle into and otherwise uninteresting ride.
 

Bike Nights
 
Tuesday Nights
 
Mad Dog Saloon Tuesday Bike Night. After a Summer hiatus, Mad Dog Saloon is BACK! And kicking off bike night for the Fall with a big night. I am really excited about Mad Dog Saloon as it is a perfect stand alone bike night location with a huge patio. For those of you that live in the area you will recognize it as the former Salty Senorita’s. The patio is huge with an outdoor bar, the inside is huge as well with garage doors that open to the outside and TV’s everywhere you look. And plenty of motorcycle parking. Raffle Prizes, Retro Pin-Up Models and a 50/50 raffle to benefit Bikers Against Diabetes.
There will be food and drink specials including
$1.00 tacos on Tuesday’s.
$2.50 Bud Bottles
$3.00 Jack Daniels Honey Shots
Mad Dog Saloon is located at 1860 S. Stapley, just 3/10 of a mile South of U.S. 60 on Stapley. Stop by and check it out. See you there for opening night on Tuesday, September 18th. Click Here for Details, Map and Photos of the Mad Dog Saloon.
 
Thursday Nights
 
September 13th – November 15th
Cyclerides.com Westgate Bike Night this Fall being presented by Arrowhead Harley-Davidson and Ridenow Powersports.
Well, it is that time of year again. The weather is starting to cool down and bike night season is upon us. Bike Night began Thursday night, September 13th with a HUGE crowd and will continue for a total of 10 nights ending on November 15th from 5 pm – 9 pm.
Enjoy Live Music with “The Visitors” featuring their blend of Classic and Contemporary Rock.
From the looks of things last week, riders are ready to enjoy the break in the weather and get back on their bikes. So grab your riding buddies and stop by to enjoy Live Music, Restaurant specials and other special events along the way. Click Here for Photos from the first night.
 
Here are the details for the Cyclerides.com Westgate Bike Night presented by Arrowhead HD and Ridenow Powersports:
Where: Westgate City Center, Loop 101 and Glendale Ave. SE Corner. Next to Jobing.com Arena.
When: Thursday nights beginning September 13th – November 15th
Time: 5 PM – 9 PM
What: Bike Night. Live Music, Food, Fun, Vendors, Motorcycles and Sturgis Style Cruising down Coyote Blvd.
Click Here for Flyer.
 
Thanks to our Presenting Sponsors Arrowhead Harley-Davidson and Ridenow Powersports:
Arrowhead HD
Your local Harley-Davidson dealership and proud sponsor of the Cyclerides.com/Westgate Bike Night. Stop by and see the latest in what Harley-Davidson has to offer. Speak to one of our trained sales staff about what Harley-Davidson motorcycle would be right for you. We are located just South of 83rd Ave. and Bell Rd. 623-247-5542.
Ridenow Powersports
Stop by and talk to our staff at bike night or at one of our many valley locations. We feature many brands including Polaris, Yamaha, Kawasaki, Suzuki, Honda, Can-Am, BMW, Victory, KTM, Spyder, and Ski-doo. Click Here for a list of our locations.
 
And to our Associate Sponsor Curly’s Customs
Curly's Customs. Curly's Customs is a full service Custom Paint & Body Shop for the motorcycle enthusiast. 623- 977-0339. Stop by and see them at Bike Night.
 
Restaurant Specials at Westgate:
Saddle Ranch - 2 chicken tacos for $5.50. Classic pints of draft beer for only $3. 6:30pm to 10:00pm All Bike Nights, excluding event days/nights (when there are concerts, sporting or other events at the Center/stadium/arena). Show “M” Class on license for discount.
Calico Jack’s Cantina - Bike Night Platters. Nacho chips, mini-chimis, onion rings & jalapeno poppers, plus a pitcher of domestic draft beer for only $19.99. Enjoy 10% off your bill when you show your motorcycle license.
The SHOUT! House - Bike Night Burger Deal: Burger, fries and one beer for only $7.00.
Kabuki - Take 15% off when you show your motorcycle license during Westgate Bike Night, Dine-in only. One offer per table per party. Not valid during Happy Hour and Reverse Happy Hour.
Margaritaville – 5-9 PM. 15% off for bikers that show their motorcycle license, alcohol not included. $2 PBRs.
 
Friday Nights
 
Mixteca Mexican Friday Bike Night. Attention West Side Riders! First night was a big success! You now have a good reason to get the bike out on a Friday Night. Mixteca Mexican Food, located at 67th Ave and Bell Rd., SW Corner is starting an every Friday Bike Night on September 14th. Mixteca features a large outdoor patio with a grill to fire up fresh street tacos as well as burgers. There will be Live Music on the patio as well as plenty of seating inside and out. Or you could choose to sit at the indoor bar that opens out to the patio. Mixteca has a great menu including Sea Food, Mexican Food and American Food. There is something for everyone. Click Here to view menu.
Ride in and enjoy:
$3 burgers on the grill
$1.75 Street Tacos
$2.00 Draft Beers
$4.00 Margaritas
Live Music with the Santana Experience.
TV’s inside and on the patio.
And plenty of blocked off motorcycle only parking right in front of the patio.
Ride by Mixteca this Friday night and help us kick off this new location on the West side located at 6731 W. Bell Rd.
Click Here to view more information including photos of Mixteca inside and out.

This Week

Saturday, September 22nd
Tombstone Harley-Davidson 1st Anniversary Ride. Come Celebrate With Us! The ride is FREE! Starts at Tucson Harley-Davidson located at 7355 I-10 Frontage Rd. in Tucson, AZ. Breakfast at 8:30 AM. Registration from 9-10 AM. Last bike out by 10:30 AM. First stop, Sierra Vista Harley-Davidson. FREE Lunch and Music. Last bike out by 1:30 PM. Last stop and destination Tombstone Harley-Davidson. Hangings off your bike by The Vigilantes on historic Allen St. Pin the tail on the hawg for Raffle Items. Historic Saloon Crawl and After Party hosted by Big Nose Kate’s. Stay the Weekend! Sunday, September 23rd join us for a special historic ride. Call Kay at Tombstone HD for more information and to reserve your spot. 520-457-1482.

Saturday, September 22nd
Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale “New Model Year Open House & Fashion Show”. Join Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale for their New Model Year Open House and Fashion Show from 10 AM – 4 PM on Saturday, September 22nd. 110th Anniversary Edition Harley-Davidson motorcycles are on our show room floor! Get here quick: gone means gone!
Enjoy these special activities:
FREE Lunch from 11 AM – 2 PM
Fashion Show – 2 PM
Live Music – 10 AM – 2 PM
Bikini Bike Wash and Beer
See the new 110th Anniversary limited edition clothing. Get yours today while supplies last. Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale is located at 15600 N. Hayden Rd. in Scottsdale, AZ. 480-905-1903.
www.hdofscottsdale.com

Sunday, September 23rd
Arrowhead Harley-Davidson Swap Meet. Please join us for our Used Parts Swap Meet on Sunday, September 23rd. 7 AM – Noon. Food Vendors, Raffles and More. Space is free but limited, so call to reserve space at 623-247-5542 or email ahdebay@ridenow.com to reserve your spot. Arrowhead HD is located at 16130 N. Arrowhead Fountain Ctr. Dr. in Peoria, AZ.

Sunday, September 23rd
Assassin Cycle and Design Open House. The East Valley’s newest and most unique motorcycle dealer is having its Grand Opening on Sunday, September 23rd from 11 AM to 2 PM.  We are located at 3045 E. Main Street in Mesa, easily accessible from the 60 and 202. Our showroom is convenient to the Phoenix area including Mesa, Gilbert, Chandler, and Tempe.  You will find a variety of motorcycles in our showroom. Assassin Cycle & Design is unique!  What makes us different from other shops?  We provide a full service location with motorcycle sales, including a fine inventory of consignments, repairs and accessories, at one of the best shop rates in the area!  You will be excited to see our custom paint department, where the only limitation to personalizing your ride, is YOUR imagination . . .   you'll be surprised by the affordability!  In addition, we have financing and extended service plans available for our customers.  All of these services, combined with our excellent customer service, is why we assassinate the competition! We are riders treating other riders right! Ride in to Assassin Cycle and Design Open House from 11 AM – 2 PM. Enjoy Food, Entertainment and Give-aways. Mike Score from JR Tucker Rocky will be displaying parts and also have give-aways. Enter to win custom paintwork. See examples at the open house. Please feel free to contact us. Assassin Cycle is located at 3045 E. Main in Mesa, AZ. http://www.assassincycles.com/

Next Week
 
Saturday September 29th
Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson Wide Open House. Ride into Buddy Stubbs Arizona Harley-Davidson on Saturday September 29th from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and check out all the latest 2013 offerings from Harley-Davidson. This year marks the 110th anniversary of Harley-Davidson and we’re throwing an open house, Harley style! What better time than now to check out all the new options, colors, and models! Ride early and stop in afterward to enjoy FREE food and drinks while you browse the isles of motorcycles. In addition, there will be live music, museum tours, and lots of shiny new chrome to check out! For more information call (602) 971-3400 or e-mail marketing@buddystubbs.com. Buddy Stubbs Arizona Harley-Davidson is located at 13850 N. Cave Creek Road, Phoenix AZ, 85022. Or online at www.buddystubbshd.com.
 
Saturday and Sunday
September 29th & 30th
Tucson Harley-Davidson Demo Event and 110th Model Year Release Party. Have you been wanting to test ride one of the new 2013 Harley-Davidson motorcycles? We all want to! Now is your chance. The Harley-Davidson Demo truck will be at Tucson HD for 2 days on September 29th and 30th from 9 AM – 4 PM to give you a chance to saddle up on a brand new 2013 Harley-Davidson and give it a ride. PLUS! The Drag Specialties will be on site. Purchase any item from the DRAG Truck (in stock or order) and receive up to 2 HOURS OF FREE LABOR! See parts counter for details. You can also see the new 2013’s in our showroom. FREE FOOD both days from 11 AM – 1 PM while supplies last. Tucson Harley-Davidson is located at 7355 N. I-10 EB Frontage Rd. in Tucson, AZ. For more information call 520-751-3380.
 
Saturday, September 29th
Poker Fun Ride. Proceeds benefit Central AZ Blue Star Moms. Prizes, 50/50 Raffle, Starts 9AM at American Legion Post 41 located at 715 S. 2nd Ave. in Phoenix, AZ. Then goes to 4 Tilted Kilt Restaurants along the way ending in Tempe. Pre Registration at www.caz3bluestarmoms.org.
 
Upcoming Events
 
Saturday, October 20th
1st Annual Bob’s Biker Blast 2012. Bob “Go Daddy” Parsons, Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale and GO AZ Motorcycles present the 1st Annual Bob’s Biker Blast 2012. The party will feature the Grand Opening of the new Demo and Training Track. Highlighting the day will be the extremely popular national band George Thorogood and the Destroyers. Performance will include the biker favorite “Bad to the Bone”. Also performing on stage that day will be the very popular southern rock band, 38 Special performing their hits including “Hold on Loosely”. Concert gates open at 4 PM. FREE Admission to all riders or $20 donation for all others. *Motorcycle endorsement good for 1 rider and 1 passenger.
 
**Other guests include a special appearance by Tommy Flanagan, who you might know as “Chibs” on the television show Sons of Anarchy from Noon – 7 PM.
**Don’t miss the Fear No Ice Thrill Show at 6 PM.
**As part of our new demo and training facility we will be introducing the 1st Ever application of Real Live motorcycle simulators.
**All-Day events starting at 10 AM at HD of Scottsdale and GO AZ Motorcycles.
Proceeds benefit the Phoenix Children’s Hospital. Go AZ Motorcycles is located at 15500 N. Hayden Rd. in Scottsdale, 480-609-1800. HD of Scottsdale is located at 15600 N. Hayden Rd. in Scottsdale, AZ. 480-905-1903.

Extras

Mid Week Updates will be made on the Cyclerides.com Facebook. New Easy to remember Facebook address. Go to Cyclerides.com Facebook. Over 3900 FANS! Take a look at all the new photos posted on the wall. If you are not on Facebook, you can still view the page, but you will not be able to post. There will be a link there for you to sign up for Facebook if you are inclined. Click the LIKE button!

The driving manual says the average driver's reaction time is .75 seconds ... or 1 car length for every 10 mph. It is tough to stop this one. I am a Bobbing Bobcat. Click Here to View

This guy is amazing. Check out his story of Sam the Bellhop. Click Here to View.
 
Video of the Week. Since the election is not far off, I thought this video from an old Bob Hope movie might be funny. At least for the Republicans. Click Here to View. Click on the Video of the Week graphic on the page.
 
If you would like to sign up for the Cyclerides.com Weekly Update Click Here.

Until Next Week,
Blessings and Safe Riding To All,

Barry Caraway
"The Road Is Yours - Take The Ride"
www.cyclerides.com

All information in this newsletter is
Copyright © 2012 BDC Products, LLC.
Information may be used only with permission.
All rights reserved.