Cyclerides.com Weekly Update

10/3/12

Greetings Riders,

Welcome to October in Arizona! Or what I like to call, Chamber of Commerce riding weather. If the forecast holds true, fall is finally coming and we are in for some beautiful riding weather throughout the state. Click Here for the Forecast next week. I’m sure we are all looking forward to a nice break from the heat. If you missed the newsletter last week and my two part series on the ride to the Gateway Auto Museum in Gateway, Colorado on Hwy. 141, Click Here for Part 1 about Hwy. 141 and Part 2 about the museum. See over 260 photos.

This week I want to bring you a fun ride that many of us have done before but with a new twist. It seems like I have ridden most of the good roads in Arizona over the years, but every once in a while, I will be told about one off the beaten path that I hadn’t known about, that can make one of our routine rides even better. With this new road, not only is it an enjoyable diversion, but you can also partake in one of Arizona’s newest industries.

For most of us, if you were at a restaurant looking for a good wine, you probably wouldn’t ask the Sommelier if he had any good wines from Arizona. But over the last 10 years wine production in Arizona has grown steadily and is now starting to become known nationally as producing award winning wines. And it just so happens, that 3 of these wineries are located on a very cool little road that makes your ride to Cottonwood or Sedona a lot more interesting and fun.

A couple of weeks ago, Mrs. C. and I were itching for a ride and a good excuse to get out of the heat a bit and decided to head North to the Thunder Valley Rally for a while and then on up 89A through Sedona and Oak Creek Canyon to Flagstaff. We have done this ride numerous times, but I forgot just how good it is. However, this time, instead of going up I-17 to either 260 to Cottonwood or 179 to Sedona, we took what I think is a great way to get to either location.

If you would like to mix up your ride to Sedona and add a little more fun and character to this ride, try taking little known Page Springs Rd. For reference, my starting point and end for this route is I-17 and the Loop 101. Starting from here go 78 miles North on I-17 to exit 293 for Cornville Rd. Turn left on Cornville Rd. and go 8 miles NW to Page Springs Rd. Watch your odometer for 8 miles because the road sign for Page Springs Rd. on your right is very small and you will likely blow right past it. A landmark would be a country store. Turn right on Page Springs Rd. and continue 8 miles to Hwy. 89A.

Page Springs Rd. is definitely a jewel of a road in the Verde Valley area and one that is captivating leaving me wanting to return again. It is beautiful and serene with all the twisties as it takes you on a 25-30 mph ride following Oak Creek past 3 Verde Valley wineries as well as the Page Springs Fish Hatchery, the state’s largest cold water fish production facility, producing nearly 700,000 trout a year. My only knock on this road is that it is not long enough. But the 8 miles you will ride on it will be very memorable as you serpentine your way through the valley with mountains on each side along Oak Creek enjoying the green vegetation and trees that the Verde Valley has to offer particularly during the late spring and Summer time frame.

Our first stop was Page Springs Cellars. This is a very good place to start, and in my opinion the best overall winery experience in the Verde Valley area. This winery is run by Eric Glomski who has become northern Arizona’s prince of grapes. He consults with or creates wines for several other Arizona producers. But he concentrates his best efforts on the wines made for his own label. The winery features an outdoor patio and a selection of cheese plates and appetizers. You can enjoy wine tasting experience on the leather couches in a room just off the main room or at the wine bar. We tasted six wines and learned about the detailed characteristics and vinting procedures of each one. I am the first to admit that I am not a wine expert, nor even drink it that much, but the experience was enlightening and enjoyable to share with friends.

There are 2 other wineries you can visit on Page Springs Rd. as well. They are Oak Creek Vineyards & Winery, open 10am – 6pm daily and Javelina Leap Vineyard and Winery, open 11am – 5pm daily that are within 1/2 mile of Page Springs Cellars open 11am – 6pm daily and till 9pm Friday and Saturday. Northern Arizona Wine Tour Map.

At the end of Page Springs Rd., you will intersect Hwy. 89A where you can take a right and go to Sedona or a left to ride 8 miles to downtown Cottonwood or on up to Jerome. On this day we went to Cottonwood for lunch at the Tavern Grille and a visit to the new Burning Tree Cellars on Main St., owned by fellow rider Mitch Levy, before taking 89A back North to Sedona and then on up 89A through Oak Creek Canyon and on to Flagstaff. As I said before, it had been a while since we had done this route and I had forgotten just how good of a ride this is. The red rocks of Sedona are beautiful and the ride up through the forest to Flagstaff is exceptional. On this day we made one of our routine stops at the Junipine Resort located just 8 miles North of Sedona and 16 miles South of I-17 & 89A. They have a patio right on 89A where you sit out for lunch or just an afternoon ice tea and watch the bikes go by. This is a great stop before you finish your last few miles up the hill.

Once you make it to 89A and I-17 you can take the 3 mile ride on in to Flagstaff or turn South and head back to the Phoenix area. As a side note, if you have the time, this is a perfect time to go on up to Arizona SnowBowl to see the changing colors of the Aspens on your way up to the ski lodge. It is beautiful this time of year. The Sky Ride to the top is now open.

The entire round trip that I outlined including the detour through Page Springs Rd. and Cottonwood is about 250 miles. If you add the destination of Snow Bowl, you will add 36 miles to your ride.

Click Here for Map.

Click Here for Map to Snow Bowl.

Click Here for Photos of Page Springs Rd.

Click Here for Photos of Cottonwood, Sedona and 89A.

Tidbits and Updates:

Charley Vidal Benefit

Motorcycle riders are a very giving group and are always there to help our riding brothers in need. A great guy that a lot of us know, Charley Vidal, (See Photos) who also happens to be a good friend of mine is very much in need of our help. Charley has always been there to support just about anything to do with motorcycling and the first to spread the word and participate in charity rides over the years, and has certainly supported my events over the last 12 years of which I am very appreciative.

Charley had beaten lung cancer a year ago, and now it is back and giving him a good battle. He is not able to work full time and his medical will not cover treatment until he reaches $6,000 out of his own pocket. He needs to raise this money so that he can concentrate on getting well and get the treatment that he needs to beat this for a second time.

There is going to be a benefit for Charley at the Hideaway, where he is affectionately known as “The Mayor”, on October 21st. You can go directly to the Hideaway or join a ride that will be leaving from Arrowhead HD at 11am to go to the Hideaway. You can also donate that day at Arrowhead HD. Mark is donating the food to help Charley. You will be able to buy a meal ticket for $10 that will ALL go to Charley. There will also be a silent auction at the Hideaway. You can make donations direct to Charley at Chase Bank, savings account # 000003034911791. More information on Charley and this event in the newsletter next week.

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. The crowds for the first 3 nights of this season have been huge. Ride in this week to see the latest Motorcycle Creations from Trask Performance! See Nick’s turbo charged bikes and new parts that will be on display. 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.

Live Music this week with Valley Favorite “Hardride”. Next week enjoy Live Music with “RE-Wired” from Flagstaff.

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

Thursday, October 4th

Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale Men’s Boot Camp. Thursday, October 4th from 6-8pm we'll be hosting a Harley-Davidson Motorcycle Boot Camp for men held in our Service Department - or what we like to call the Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale Ultimate Man Cave! This is a great social and informative event for all motorcycle enthusiasts including non-riders, new riders and experienced riders. Learn about everything from the headlights to the tailpipes, customizing tips, safety gear, safe riding skills and more. Additionally you will learn about the new 2013 models and which bike is perfect for you. This event is 100% FREE and includes tasty food from Barista Cafe (served up by the Hot Barista Bikini Girls), ice cold beer, cigars and door prizes. If you have dreamed about getting on a Harley or already do - This event is for you! Come by yourself or bring a buddy! Space is very limited - Enlist today!

Email marketing@hdofscottsdale.com. Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale located at 15600 Hayden Rd. in Scottsdale. 480-905=1903 for more information.

First Friday of Each Month

Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale Ride to the Dogg. The first Friday of each month ride with Harley-Davidson of Scottsdale to the Dirty Dogg and be entered to win great prizes! Pin-Up Calendar Girl contest, Beer specials & Free Pizza. Biker Games hosted by Jack Schit. Kickstands up at 7 PM from the dealership located at 15600 N. Hayden Rd. in Scottsdale, AZ. 480-905-1903.

Saturday and Sunday

October 6th and 7th

Chandler Harley-Davidson Demo Event . 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 Chandler HD for 2 days on October 6th and 7th 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. Don’t miss the Hard Candy Custom and More! FREE FOOD both days from 11 AM – 1 PM while supplies last. Chandler Harley-Davidson is located at 6895 W. Chandler Blvd. in Chandler, AZ. For more information call 480-496-6800.

Saturday, October 6th

American Legion Riders District 12 Poker Run. Ride benefiting Cpl. Brad Ivanchan, wounded soldier from Glendale, AZ. Registration 9AM – 10AM at post 117 located at 16428 N. 32nd St., Phoenix, AZ. First bike out at 10AM. Raffles and 50/50. ALR 117 Burger Night – 5:30 PM. Prizes for High and Low hand. See flyer for stops. Entry donation $20 single and $25 with passenger.

Next Week

Saturday and Sunday

October 13th – 14th

Arrowhead Harley-Davidson Demo Event . 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 Chandler HD for 2 days on October 13th and 14th 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. Don’t miss the Hard Candy Custom and More! FREE FOOD both days from 11 AM – 1 PM while supplies last. Arrowhead Harley-Davidson is located at 16130 N. Arrowhead Fountain Ctr. Dr. in Peoria, AZ. For more information call 623-247-5542.

Saturday, October 13th

“Companion” a Charity Wine Event to benefit Arizona Border Collie Rescue. Enjoy Great Wine, Great Friends and Even Better Cause: The Arizona Border Collie Rescue. $20 for 5 tastes. Silent Auction, Music, Snacks, Cigar Vendor. Event time 2PM – 6PM at Chandler Harley-Davidson located at 6895 W. Chandler Blvd. in Chandler, AZ. Buy tickets online and for more information go to www.raisingglasses.com.

Wednesday, October 17th

Chandler Harley-Davidson Bike Night at Loco Patron. Ride in for the fun at Loco Patron for Bike Night. Take part in the Cornhole Competition and the White Legs Contest! Event time from 6:30 – 9:30 PM. Winner gets a Chandler HD Gift Card. Bike Night specials include $2.50 Domestics, 10% Off Food for H.O.G. Members, Live Music from Paul Ludenia, VIP Parking for Motorcycles and Raffle Prizes throughout the night by the Chandler Harley-Davidson girls. Loco Patron is located at 1327 E. Chandler Blvd. #108, Phoenix, AZ 85048.

Upcoming Events

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!

Have you ever seen a Montana pole dancer? Check this out. Click Here to View

Check out this new sport called “Lake Skimming”. Click Here to View.

Video of the Week. This is one smart dog! 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