Cyclerides.com Weekly Update
6/24/09
 

Greetings Riders,
 
Well, it looks like our pass to unseasonable weather for the month of June in Phoenix has now officially expired. But for those that have been here for the last 28 years, we have thoroughly enjoyed the break. This was by far the mildest temperatures I have ever seen for this time of year. Hopefully we won't be paying for this in September. But for now, if you are riding out of the Valley, which you probably will be doing, planning your entry back into the valley will be key. Carry some water with you and watch yourself for Dehydration.

The Shady Dell

Last week I told you about the beautiful ride up Mt. Lemmon. That is an easy Day Ride from Phoenix, but if you want to stretch your ride out a little further and make it an overnighter, I have a good idea for you. Head Southeast out of Tucson through Sonoita, over to Tombstone and end up in Bisbee. We had been hearing about this place called The Shady Dell, a vintage trailer park in Bisbee, AZ, that rents out 1950's vintage trailers by the night. The Shady Dell is a former RV/Trailer Park located about a mile South of old town Bisbee that now features 10 fully restored vintage trailers from the late 40's to the early 50's for nightly or weekly rental. You can choose to stay in a perfectly restored 1949 Airstream, a 33 foot 1951 Spartan Royal Mansion, or if you are looking to live the lifestyle of the early musicians, you can rent the 1947 Tiki Bus decked out in a Polynesian theme. For those of you that want to be Gilligan for a night, you can even stay in a 38 foot 1947 Chris Craft Yacht complete with your own dock.
 
I will admit to having been a little skeptical about the prospects of calling the Shady Dell home for the night. I was expecting cob webs hanging from the ceiling, 1 foot squares of asbestos tile curling up on the corners or the smell of musty old trailer to greet me at the screen door. But those thoughts couldn't have been farther from the truth as we felt comfortable and at home from the moment we rode into the park.
 
A very nice young couple by the name of Jen and Justin are owners and operators of the Shady Dell. Born and raised in Scottsdale, Arizona, Justin began calling the Shady Dell home in September 2007. An avid classic car collector and vintage memorabilia enthusiast, Justin and the Shady Dell are the perfect match. With his experiences in travel, tourism and hospitality, along with a love for antiquities and time-honored collectibles, the Shady Dell has become the perfect place for him to call home. The first face to greet you at the Shady Dell is Jen. From taking reservations, to designing Shady Dell materials and merchandise, Jen is always wearing a smile and an amazing 50’s hairstyle. Jen has called Arizona home for the past seven years and gave into her love for the Shady Dell shortly after Justin moved.
 
Unfortunately for us, we didn't get to see Jen at the front office on this trip as we pulled in a little past closing time, but we were greeted with our name on the window of the door with instructions that the door to our trailer of choice, the 33 foot 1951 Spartan Royal Mansion, was open and the key was on the table. From the moment that you make your way to your trailer, you know that you are about to transport yourself almost 60 years back in time. Seeing the vintage aluminum travel trailers lined up around the park, the old signs hanging on the wall of the shower house to the 1950's music and radio programs playing throughout the park, you can't help but forget about what was on your mind when you pulled in and just succumb to the era of yesteryear.
 
The walk through the park to get to your rolling palace for the night is only the start of getting you back to the 50's. When we opened the door to our Royal Mansion we were greeted with an old black and white TV with a Lucy and Desi movie sitting on the top of it. To our right was an old paisley couch sitting on leopard carpet next to the old 78 record player complete with records. To the left toward the kitchen was the table with an old radio on it playing an actual radio program from the early 50's including music and commercials from the day. I'll never forget hearing one of the commercials that was played with the announcer declaring that "2 out of 3 doctors smoke Camel cigarettes, so you should too". Wow! What a difference 59 years makes in commercial statements. On that same table was our keys, a couple of postcards to from the Shady Dell and our instructions for staying in the park and operating the trailer.
 
As we made our way back to explore the entire 33 feet of our Mansion for the night, we found a fully stocked kitchen with sink, stove and nice big refrigerator. When you make your reservations at the Dell, you will notice that some of the trailers have toilets and some don't. We chose the Royal Mansion that does have a nice toilet and a double bed. My original fears were unfounded as the trailer was absolutely spotless, smelled great and the swamp cooler was blowing cold air. This Mansion was definitely fit for a King. We couldn't have been more happy to let the Shady Dell provide for us a trip back in time.
 
After exploring all of the furnishings from the day, we got our bags in from the bike and cleaned up for our trip into old Bisbee for some dinner at Santiago's and then walked across the street to the Brewery where there was an excellent band playing. It looked as though the Brewery was a former commodities or stock exchange in the early 1900's. Might be worth a look if you are there on a Friday or Saturday night. Not much else going on in Bisbee after they roll up the sidewalks at 6pm.
 
I will admit to being the type of personality that always has to be doing something. You won't find me sitting around reading a book. But for those of you that are like me, it IS possible to slow down for a minute if the situation is right. Just to give you an idea about how relaxed we were, when we got back to the trailer about 10pm, I picked up this old yearbook that was sitting on a table. It was the 1951 Douglas High School Bearcat. Believe it or not, when there is no internet, TV or other gadgets of the millennium at your fingertips, you can still entertain yourself. Mrs. C. and I sat on the paisley couch with the leopard carpet under our feet and spent an hour just looking through The 1951 Bearcat yearbook. I never thought it could be so much fun talking about, laughing and making fun of what kids looked like 58 years ago. Sounds kind of silly as I write this now, but we had a great time looking at all of the old pictures of the basketball teams, cheerleaders and the seniors in their suits and ties. So I guess we can get by at least for 24 hours without TV and the internet.
 
After a surprisingly superb night of sleep on the double bed in the Royal Mansion, the relaxation continued the next morning as I surprised Mrs. C. once again by turning off the alarm at 7am and electing to take advantage of this altered state I had fallen into. When it comes to riding, I am the first one up to proclaim that we are burning daylight by not being in the saddle. But on this day, sleeping in and enjoying the moment was where I wanted to be. Times like this these days are few and far between. The riding on this day could wait. When we finally got up, Mrs. C. drank some coffee on the front lawn while filling out the guest book while I took a stroll around the park to take some pictures. We then went to Dot's Diner located on site for and excellent home cooked breakfast before loading up and hitting the road at around 11:30am.
 
Everyone can have different experiences from whatever they do. But for us, The Shady Dell accomplished their goal in providing us a with a venue that got us to unplug the computers, turn off the Blackberry's, and step back in time with the help of the vintage trailers, the ambiance, the decorations and the old radio programs that had you believing you were in the day. Mrs. C. and I Say, Thank You Shady Dell for a great 18 hours of just enjoying life.
 
We were all charged up and relaxed, but after a quick ride through the narrow streets of Bisbee it was now noon and we were still in Southeastern Arizona, 376 miles from home. I really wanted to see the Chiricahua National Monument while we were so close. So it was off to Douglas for a gas stop and then North to the Monument. Wow, what a surprise this was. Having no idea what was going to be seen, we were totally blown away by the beauty of this area. It is a 7 mile ride in and out that is an absolutely gorgeous ride through the trees and Hoodoo rock formations. If you are in the area, I would highly recommend going through there. Otherwise, it is a long ride just to see that. Take a look at the pictures that are in the gallery and I think you will be impressed. If you do make the trip to the Shady Dell, I would definitely swing around to see Chiricahua.
 
We hustled on home through Willcox and took I-10 all the way back and was home by 7:45pm capping off a 725 mile 2 day trip packed with beautiful riding and a unique experience. There is nothing like weekend motorcycle trips to energize the soul. Plan yours today.
 
I have posted 183 Photos of Tombstone, Bisbee, The Shady Dell and Chiricahua National Monument. Click Here to View.
Click Here For
Map of Route.
Click Here For
Map of Area

Useful Links:
Want to make a reservation at the Shady Dell?
www.theshadydell.com
Check out all the trailers and rates at the Shady Dell.
Click Here.
Bisbee, Arizona
Chiricahua National Monument
If you are in the area, also consider taking a tour of Kartchner Caverns. Reservations are required. Click Here. 
 


 
I Need Help!
 
As most of you know by now, the last Westgate Bike Night is on Thursday, July 2nd. We are planning a Patriotic Theme for the night. I am putting together a bike show of Flag Painted Bikes or Patriotic Themed painted Bikes to be displayed across the bridge and would love to have as many of these types of bikes as possible. If you have one or know of someone who does, please have them contact me as soon as possible at info@cyclerides.com to display their bike in the show.
 
This week at the Westgate Bike Night you can participate in the McFadden's Grand Opening party and watch the McFadden's
Calendar Girl Search Competition with Playboy Playmate Jayde Nicole and other celebrity judges. www.mcfaddensglendale.com
 

 
 Highlights This Week 

Saturday, June 27th
Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson presents "Soak The Stubbs".
Yes, you read that right. This is your chance to have some fun with your favorite
staff member at Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson.
 


Bike Nights This Week 

Thursday Night 

The Bike Night At The Billet Bar The Billet Bar was the place to be during Bike Week as well as the rest of the year. Set on the patio and watch the action. Voted "BEST BIKER BAR IN PHOENIX" by New Times. There is no better place to watch all the Bikes ride down Scottsdale road than from The Billet Bar Patio. The Billet is ALWAYS packed with bikes Every Day. Stop by and take a look at the New Flamed Booths on the Paradise Patio. The new bars front and rear provide spacious seating, fresh air atmosphere, perfect temperature and courteous staff. The food is amazing and always the latest in cold libations await. You can sit at the back bar and watch your favorite TV on any of the seven big inch televisions. Play pool, listen to the latest music and socialize. The front patio seats over 75 people and is perfect for people watching on Scottsdale Rd. The Billet Bar is located on 3752 N. Scottsdale Rd. Check it out this Thursday night and all weekend long. Info: at 480-941-1876. Click Here for the New Billet Bar Page with pictures.

 

Only 2 Nights Left!! Bike Night Now Ends on July 2nd.
Westgate City Center Bike Night in Association with Cyclerides.comWestgate Bike Night Has Been Extended to July 2nd!!! 

For the First Time, The premier entertainment venue in the Valley, Westgate City Center, will Host a night for motorcycles through June 25th. I have been wanting to see a Bike Night at Westgate for a couple of years and it is finally here. If you have ever been to an event at Jobing.com or University of Phoenix Stadium, you are most likely familiar with the Times Square feel of Westgate City Center. Starting Thursday, April 9th, for the 6 Thursdays, Westgate will open up Coyote Blvd. from 6pm - 10pm for parking of motorcycles next to the 6 Million Dollar Dancing Fountains. Restaurants including Margaritaville, Bar Louies, Shout House, Which Wich, Moe's, Kabuki, Johnny Rockets and Hell's Half Acre will have Bike Night food and drink specials and will be welcoming all riders.
You will be given a flyer that will get you the discounts at the participating restaurants.

Discounts include $2.00 Miller Lite, $5.00 Chicken Nachos and $6.95 pulled pork sandwich and fries at Bar Louie's and $3.00 drafts, $2.00 well, $2.00 off Margaritas, Mini Quesadillas for $5.95 and Sliders for $6.95 among other specials at Margaritaville. Sit out on the patios and enjoy the entertainment on the big screen. 

Click Here for full menu of specials
Thanks to our Westgate Bike Night Sponsors - GEICO Motorcycle Insurance, Arrowhead Harley-DavidsonRidenow Powersports and Chuck Franklin Law
Click Here for Photos From the Last 4 Weeks. 
There will also be motorcycle programming and music on the Huge 30'x50' LED screen located in events plaza.
 
What to do:
This week at the Westgate Bike Night you can participate in the McFadden's Grand Opening party and watch the
McFadden's Calendar Girl Search Competition with Playboy Playmate Jayde Nicole and other celebrity judges. www.mcfaddensglendale.com
Come park on Coyote Blvd. and enjoy the music or eat at one of the restaurants.
Music and Videos all night.
Every Half Hour:
Music and Performances by the 6 million dollar Dancing Fountains. 
 
Take a ride to Westgate, located on the SE Corner of the Loop 101 and Glendale Ave. 
Enjoy this beautiful venue that is offering a night just for motorcyclists every Thursday for the next 5 weeks starting April 9th - May 14th. Get something to eat or drink on one of the many outdoor patios in events plaza, watch the video presentations or just join in the fun and view the display of bikes lined up on Coyote Blvd. in Westgate. ALL MOTORCYCLES WELCOME. Click Here for photos of Westgate. Westgate City Center is located at the SE Corner of the Loop 101 and Glendale Ave. Enter Coyote Blvd. from the West next to Jobing.com Arena. 

This Week 

Saturday, June 27th
Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson presents "Soak The Stubbs". Yes, you read that right. This is your chance to have some fun with your favorite staff member at Buddy Stubbs Harley-Davidson. On Saturday, June 27th you will have your shot dunk Buddy, Frank, Jack and the rest of the staff in a Real-Life dunk tank. This all takes place from 11am - 3pm. While you are there enjoy FREE Sandwiches and Drinks, Live Music, Museum Tours with Buddy, Pool Tournament for prizes and Sale items. And of course if you have been doing some riding and need to get the bugs off, take your bike through the Bikini Bike Wash from 11am - 2pm. Buddy Stubbs HD is located at 13850 N. Cave Creek Rd. in Phoenix. 602-971-3400.
 
Saturday, June 27th
Andrea's Closet Christmas in June Charity Run. Bring smiles one toy at a time.  Harley's, customs & street bikes partnering to help hospitalized kids.  Registration is 8 am at Arrowhead Harley-Davidson, 16130 N. Arrowhead Fountain Center Drive in Peoria.  Ride begins at 10 am and ends with the delivery of toys to Andrea’s Closet at St. Joseph’s Hospital, 350 W. Thomas Road in Phoenix.  Entry fee $5 and a new toy (fee includes six raffle tickets).  Police escort, raffle prizes, food and drinks; photos with Santa.  For more info:  Kenny Brunk at 623.556.7508; Kelly Gallagher at 623.521.6323 or email kenney@andreascloset.org 

Next Week 

Saturday, July 4th
Arrowhead Harley-Davidson Free Appreciation Breakfast. Taking a ride Saturday morning? Stop by Arrowhead HD for a free breakfast on your way out of town. Arrowhead Harley-Davidson wants to invite EVERYONE to a customer appreciation breakfast on the last Saturday of every month from 8:30am till 10:00 am. Join us for a FREE pancake, sausage and egg breakfast served up by Big D's Flippin Cakes. Thank you for all your support and business! Ride by Arrowhead Harley-Davidson the last Saturday of Every Month for a free breakfast. Arrowhead Harley-Davidson is located at 16130 N. Arrowhead Fountain Center Dr. in Peoria. 623-247-5542. 

Extras 

This comedian puts a very funny spin on commercials using songs. Click Here to View. 
Animal videos are always good.
Now this is one smart dog. Click Here to View. 
Video of the Week
I guess if you practice enough, you can get good at almost anything. See some of the strange things people decide to become good at. Click Here to View. 
 

Until Next Week,
Blessings and Safe Riding To All,
 
Barry Caraway
"The Road Is Yours - Take The Ride"
www.cyclerides.com
info@cyclerides.com

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