Cyclerides.com Weekly Update
3/18/09
 

Greetings Riders,
 
Well, we are only 10 days away from Arizona Bike Week now and the weather is already reminding us that Summer is not all that far away. Record high temps of over 90 degrees are forecast for the next couple of days then cooling off into the weekend. The extended forecast is calling for 90 degrees for the first weekend of Bike Week on the 27th. If that is not enough reason to get out and take part of the festivities around town, I don't know what is. It will be beautiful short sleeve weather both day and night.
 
Speaking of beautiful riding, Mrs. C. got her bike back from the shop this past Saturday and we didn't waste any time hitting the road for a nice 260 mile ride. We picked up the bike at 11am and by 11:01 we were headed East to meet some friends for a long awaited ride. I've said it before and I will say it again, and probably again sometime, I forget how pretty and interesting riding in Arizona is. Some say it is boring just looking at desert, but this time of year the desert has a lot of character with the green vegetation,  abundant wildflowers and soon to be blooming cactus. I've ridden in plenty of wooded areas including Sequoia and the Redwoods and that is really cool for a while. But when you've seen one tall redwood tree, you've pretty much seen them all. When riding in the Sonoran desert, the different sizes, shapes and designs of saguaro cactus creates a pallet of continual surprise as you wind your way through these giant ancient succulents, each almost telling a story of their own longevity. 

Our route of choice on this day was the loop that would take us past Roosevelt Lake. We made our way to Fountain Hills from the West Valley and headed North on Hwy. 87 toward Payson. From Fountain Hills this route takes you through the Tonto National Forest as you wind your way through sweeping curves, boulder outcroppings and thousands of the aforementioned Saguaro Cactus that will keep your senses occupied the entire way. I tend to lock onto the wildest looking saguaro I can find and try to figure out why it grew as it did. After a beautiful 46 mile ride, winding your way through some of the prettiest  desert landscape Arizona has to offer, you will turn Southeast on Hwy. 188. Ride approximately 3 miles and you will be at Jakes Corner, which only consists of a General Store, RV Campground and Jakes Corner Bar for a quick sarsaparilla or in our case a very tasty 1/2 pound cheeseburger hot off the grill eaten at a picnic table out back of the bar. Plan your trip for lunch and you will be sure to enjoy yourself.
 
For those of you that don't know, there was recently a movie named Jakes Corner that was actually shot at the bar and in the area. We saw it when it came out and it is actually a pretty good movie. If you have been to Jakes Corner and the area, it tends to make it even more interesting as you recall various locations. Former Phoenix Suns player Dan Majerle is a Co-Producer of the film. Click Here for the Trailer. I would guess you could rent it by now.
 
After about an hour at Jakes, we saddled up and continued SE another 17 miles where we got our first glimpse of the Lake Roosevelt. With the lake now being 100% full, you will ride right next to the water for the next 13 miles to the Roosevelt Lake Dam where you will cross the longest two-lane, single-span, steel-arch expansion bridge in North America stretching 1080 feet across Lake Roosevelt. The bridge itself earned rare distinction when the bridge was named one of the top 12 bridges in the nation in November 1995. The American Consulting Engineers Council cited the bridge for overall design, size, eye-appeal and design challenge. Right next to the bridge is Theodore Roosevelt Dam that started construction in 1906 and dedicated by President Roosevelt in 1911. At the time it was built, the dam was the world's largest all-masonry dam, made of huge, hand-hewn stones. The dam has since undergone a facelift that increased the size of the reservoir by 20%.
 
Just South of the bridge you will see a road sign for Hwy. 88 West. This road is also known as the Apache Trail and it will take you on a narrow winding road down to a viewing area to see the dam. This road consists of about 1.5 miles of asphalt and then turns into dirt. I would highly suggest taking this road to get a good look at this historic dam. If you were to continue on the dirt road it would take you to Tortilla Flat and Canyon Lake.
 
Just 4 miles South of the Dam is Tonto National Monument. I didn't even know this was there until I saw an article on it in the Arizona Republic a couple of weeks ago. From Hwy 188 you turn West at the sign for the monument that will take you 2 miles on a paved road up to the visitors center. Tonto National Monument is the home of well-preserved cliff dwellings that were occupied by the Salado Indians between 1150 and 1450 AD. The Monument is located in the Upper Sonoran ecosystem, known primarily for its characteristic Saguaro Cactus. Tonto National Monument was established by President Theodore Roosevelt in 1907, one of the first National Monuments to be proclaimed under the new Antiquities Act of 1906. Since then, these pristine ruins have been both protected and open to the public to enjoy. Tonto National Monument presents a unique opportunity to walk through the original rooms which once housed a thriving community. You can Watch the 18-minute orientation video, view the Lower Cliff Dwelling from the deck, and visit the museum or watch the video, visit the museum, and hike the 1/2-mile Lower Cliff Dwelling trail.
 
We didn't hike the trail due to time constraints, but I would highly advise taking the 2 mile ride back to the ruins and at least seeing them from the parking area. I'm sure we will make the hike next time. It is a really pretty area. The park is open daily from 8:00am - 5:00pm. Lower cliff dwelling trail closes at 4 pm to uphill travel.
 
South of Tonto Monument you will take a very pretty 26 mile ride that will put you on a slow rise out of the lake area through some low level mountains and sweeping curves to Hwy. 60 just South of Globe, AZ. You can take the 3 mile ride into the old town of Globe or turn East on Hwy. 60 that will take you the 70 miles through Superior, Florence Junction and then back to the Loop 101 and Hwy. 60.
 
From Fountain Hills back around to Hwy. 60 and the 101 is approximately 180 miles. With our stops for lunch, sightseeing and photo ops this took us about 6 hours to complete. So depending on what part of the valley that you live, it is an easy leisurely day ride with plenty of scenery, elevation changes, history and things to do that you will thoroughly enjoy. I would highly recommend this route for riders of any skill level and would be one to take your friends on that will be visiting you during AZ Bikeweek.
 
Click Here for Roosevelt Day Ride
Click Here for Map of Route
 
As usual I have over 150 photos for you to enjoy. Click Here to View. 
 
Useful Links:
History of Roosevelt Dam
Tonto National Monument
Another Tonto National Monument
 

Highlight This Week 

Sandbar Mexican Grill Wednesday Bike Night. Stop by and try your hand at the Wii Bowling Tournament every Wednesday night!
Ride by the Sandbar Mexican Grill this Wednesday night where the patio instantly sweeps you away to a tropical island paradise as thatch and tin roofs cover the bar. Sit on one of the many high topped tables on the sandy beach or sit at the palapa bar outside and watch TV while listening to music. Or go inside to the dining area featuring a huge bar with 30 HDTV's to choose from around the room all decorated in an island beach theme. Sandbar has a great menu of Mexican food and will be featuring build your own burrito's for $5.00. Choose any ingredients you want off the menu, pack them into your burrito all for $5.00. There will also be $2.00 off ALL Drinks which makes domestic bottles $2.00 and Margarita's $4.00. Ride by this Wednesday night to check out the Sandbar Wednesday Bike Night. Motorcycle Parking Only will be blocked off in front of the restaurant. Click Here to see Photos and details.  Click Here for Sandbar Web Site. 

Thursday Night 

Dirty Doggs Thursday Bike Night presented by Renegade Classics. The Dirty Dogg Saloon and Renegade Classics of Phoenix join forces to host one of the best Bike Night’s in the valley every Thursday.  Each week a free raffle will take place along with door prizes for both guys and gals, drink specials and of course the Dirty Dog Girls doing their thing on the bar.  The hours are 7-10; the Dirty Dog is located on the Southeast Corner of Shea and Scottsdale Road –480-368-8095.  Renegade Classics is located at 3102 East Cactus Road in Phoenix and more information can be seen at www.renegadephoenix.com
 
Chester's Harley-Davidson Bike Night at Dos Gringos Mesa. Ride by the New Dos Gringos Mesa located on the northwest corner of Greenfield and Baseline in Mesa.  Dos is sure to make an impact and add some flare to the east valley. Enormous patio, complete with its own outdoor bar and separate dining areas on each side. Dos is a casual neighborhood hangout with great food and cold cervezas. Feel free to dine at one of our four tops, relax at one of the booths lining the edge or just belly up to the bar. Click Here to View. There will be drink and food specials and Raffles and Fun from Chester's Harley-Davidson. Ride with Chester's from the dealership at 5:30pm every Thursday located at 922 S. Country Club Dr. in Mesa. 480-894-0404. 

Sunday 

Sugar Daddy's Biker Brunch on the Patio. Sugar Daddy's is back with their Sunday Biker Brunch from 10am - 1pm. Start your day on the huge outdoor patio with the $4.00 Bloody Mary bar. Then go for the build your own breakfast for $9.99 or other breakfast plates including the "Country Breakfast", "Farmers Breakfast" or "Mexican Breakfast" for as low as $6.99. As always, enjoy the fabulous 5000 Sq. Ft. outdoor patio on Scottsdale Rd. Just South of Old Town. Sugar Daddy's is located at 3102 N. Scottsdale Rd. in Scottsdale. 

Friday, March 27th
Hacienda Harley-Davidson 12th Annual Kickstart Party. Stop by and join in the fun at the 12th Annual Kickstart Party featuring UFC fighters Rage in the Cage. Gates open at 3pm- Midnight, $15.00 donation to the Colter Foundation. VIP $100 tickets limited; VIP includes Meet and Greet with RITC Figher, Meet and Greet with UFC Fighters (confirmed Shane Corwin), All Access to the VIP Room, Ring seat for the Rage in the Cage. Live Bands, GIRLS, Beer Garden,Three Amigo's Tequilla, Vendors, Auction and more.  The place to Kickstart Bike Week, is at Hacienda Harley-Davidson, Buell. Bike Parking On-Site. Hacienda Harley-Davidson is located at 15600 N. Hayden Rd. in Scottsdale, AZ. 480-905-1903.
 
Friday, March 27th - April 5th
Hacienda Harley-Davidson Huge Tent Sale. Hacienda Harley-Davidson is setting up the tents to move some merchandise. If you have ever been to one of these tent sales, you know that there are some excellent deals. This time you will find up to 75% OFF. The tent sale will be ALL DAY EVERYDAY. While you are there enjoy Daily BBQ's and Music. There will be other activities going on throughout the week that will include:
April 1st-5th- Arizona's 1st 5-Day SWAP Meet
Monday, March 30th: Burn-Out Contest, Tuesday, March 31st: Dyno Shoot-Out, Wednesday, April 1st: April Fools Day, Thursday, April 2nd: Ladies Day, Friday, April 3rd: Come see Cyclesolutions, Saturday, April 4th: BBQ 11-2pm, Bikini Bike Wash, Tattoo Contest. Ride with us to PYO Bash at 2pm. Hacienda Harley-Davidson is located at 15600 N. Hayden Rd. in Scottsdale, AZ. 480-905-1903.
 
Saturday, March 28th
5th Annual Buddy Stubbs Bike Week Bash. This HUGE Buddy Stubbs party hosted 13,000 people last year who came and enjoyed a great party! 2009 will be even bigger!! Admission is always FREE! 88,000 Sq. Ft. Miller Beer Garden, Bikini Contest - Patron Margaritas - Pyrat Rum - Great Food - Live Entertainment - Vendor Displays - Museum Tours. WE WILL BE GIVING AWAY A SPORTSTER 1200.
Put this party on your list of "Can't Miss" events!
Events of the day include:
11:00am - Pete from KSLX & The Shortcomings
1:30pm - "Breakdown" - Tom Petty Tribute Band
3:45pm - Bikini Contest
4:30pm - Harry Luge: AZ Country Rocker
6:30pm - Sportster Giveaway
Buddy Stubbs is located at 13850 N Cave Creek Road. Info: 602-971-3400.
 
Saturday, March 28th
Miss Arizona Bike Week Pageant At Chester’S Indian Motorcycle Phoenix!- Join us at the REVVV-UP party Saturday March 28th for a day full of fun, and a magical evening under the stars, as we crown the next Miss Arizona Bike Week.  Event starts at 10am with a “build your own bloody-mary bar.” Then, check out the great vendors! Perhaps you could get your motorcycle pinstriped. Or maybe it’s you who could use the pinstripping, so visit the tattoo artist! From LED lights to patches, from vendors to vixens, this will be an all day motorcycle extravaganza. Later, catch the Arizona Derby Dames all girls Roller Derby Team fighting it out at the newly renovated Chester’s Indian Motorcycle Phoenix complex. But it’s the night that really heats up at 7pm with multiple rounds of judging to name the new Miss Arizona Bike Week 2009. Cast your vote with cheers for your favorite contestant. Roxster and Metalhead to perform! Visit www.backstagebikerbash.com for more info or call 480.894.0404. Chester’s Indian Motorcycle Phoenix- 944 S. Country Club Dr. Mesa, AZ 85210
 
Saturday, March 28th
Lost Dutchman Poker Rally. Sponsored by East Valley HOG. Proceeds will support the Salvation Army. Registration 8am - 10am at Chester's Harley-Davidson, 922 S. Country Club in Mesa,AZ. $20 Per Person. Cash Prizes, Raffle Prizes, Food and Drink, Bike Wash Bike Games.
 
Saturday, March 28th
Hacienda Harley-Davidson 8th Annual Colter Cannonball Run. Ride to support the Colter Foundation. Registration 9-10:30am at Hacienda Harley-Davidson at 15600 N. Hayden Rd. $35/rider and $15/passenger. Pancake Breakfast, ride departs at 11am, last bike in at 3:30pm Dinner at 4pm. 100 mile ride, stops at the Community of Joy.. see what you have helped us build... plus that night at the Community of Joy- FREE Teen Concert sponsored by the Colter & Associates Foundation.
 
Saturday, March 28th
Joeta's Leather Treasure Hunt. Find the Treasure! Win a Jacket & Chap your choice. Breakfast & Lunch included. Music by Steel Solace. Prizes,Bikewash & More! Registration 8-10am Joeta's Leather, 433 W. Main, Mesa,AZ 480-827-1868. Last Bike in 2pm at American Legion Post 26. 505 W. 2nd Ave. Mesa. $20.00 single, $35.00 2-Up. All Proceeds to benefit the Virginia Piper Breast Cancer Center, Scottsdale, AZ. All Welcome.
 
Saturday, March 28th
3rd Annual American Legion Riders "legacy" Rally & Poker Run. Registration 8am-10am $20.00 per bike,  $10.00  per passenger includes lunch all proceeds to The American Legion Legacy Scholarship Fund, which supports children of fallen military hero's. American Legion Post 29, 6822 N 57th Dr, Glendale,Az   (623)334-4680. Music-Food-Fun Ride-Door Prizes.
 

Sunday, March 29th
Chester's Harley- Davidson REVVV-UP REHAB! After two days of backstage biker bash excitement, we are still ready to party. Sunday will be a rockin rehab with the backstage biker bash vendors still on site, and several events scheduled throughout the day. Visit www.backstagebikerbash.com for more info or call 480.894.0404. Chester’s Harley-Davidson 922 S. Country Club Dr. Mesa, AZ
 

Sunday, March 29th
4th Annual Takin’ the Ride for Fallen Officers. The TASER Foundation for Fallen Officers and the Blue Knights of AZ Chapter VI are proud to present the Takin’ the Ride charity motorcycle event to help the families of fallen officers. Please join us for an exciting and memorable time to give back to those who protect our families and communities every day. Registration begins at 9:30am, Ride begins at 11:00 am from TASER International HQ, 17800 North 85th St in Scottsdale, AZ and will end at approximately 1:00 pm at the Fort McDowell Casino, 10424 North Fort McDowell Rd. $40 single rider, $50 with passenger. Info: 480-905-2090 or visit www.takintheride.com
 
Sunday, March 29th
13th Annual MDA Rally & Silent Auction. All proceeds benefit MDA. Registration, Silent Auction and Open House, 8:30am - 11am. Escorted Ride departs at 11:30am from Arrowhead Harley-Davidson located at 16130 N. Arrowhead Fountain Center Dr. in Peoria. Arrival at Trackside Bar and Grill at 12:30pm. Drawings will be held at Trackside. $20 Donation includes Breakfast/Lunch, Ride Pin, Raffle Ticket for over 50 prizes. More information at 623-247-5542. 

Extras 

I have had a lot of emails about the Cyclerides.com Hearts To Heroes ride that I have done for the last 4 years. As reported before, I am not doing it this year, but would like to do a nice welcome home event if we get that opportunity. However, I see that someone else is conveniently using the "Hearts To Heroes" name for their event and it is causing some confusion.
I just want to make it absolutely clear that this is not my ride and I have nothing to do with the organization of it.
 
This is a great video of an elephant doing tricks like punting a ball and shooting hoops. Amazing what they can learn. Click Here to View.
 
Here is another classic video from Jay Leno doing a parody on President Lincoln, Bush and Obama. Funny. Click Here to View.
 
This is a bit from Jimmy Kimmel about the Octomom giving birth. Click Here to View.