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Commute with Kids Fun Mountain Bike Trails How to Pedal in a Skirt Bike Oro Valley Marana Bike-Friendly Businesses FOLLOW US Facebook.comBikeLifeTucson BikeLifeTucson SPRING 2015 Summer Bike Camps for Kids Get ready for Cyclovia FREE Pullout BIKE MAP InsideSafe Routes to School Upcoming GABA Events and Rides Day Rides March 2122 Sonoita-Bisbee Overnight April 12 Bike Swap May 15 Mt. Lemmon Hill Climb May 20 Ride of Silence May 2325 Luna Lake Overnight Details at www.meetup.combikegaba Where Cycling Is More Than Just Riding A Bike www.bikegaba.org We Support Advocacy and Outreach by Supporting 10 OFFa purchase of 50 or more. Not valid with any other promotions or prior purchases. Offer expires 61515 Not valid with any other promotions or prior purchases. Offer expires 61515 a purchase of 100 or more. 20 OFF www.BroadwayBicycles.com 520-296-7819 140 S. Sarnoff Drive Tucson Join us every weekend for group rides that cater to all riding levels. WEVE GOT YOUR BACK Your one stop shop since 1975 Publisher Lynn Guissinger Editor Becca Heaton Art DirectorDesigner Kristal Boni Production Beth Prehn Contributors Dan Baum Duncan Benning Vanessa Cascio Ann Chanecka Daniela Diamente Jeanne Eisenhaure Jessica Hersh-Ballering Martha Lemen Sarah Prasek Lindsay Walker Kylie Walzak Online Ryan Amirault Greg Thomas Finance Shirlee Adolfson Sales Brian Bauer briancatacom.com 303-444-5545 x112 Russ Chandler russcatacom.com 303-444-5545 x107 Lynn Guissinger lynncatacom.com 303-444-5545 x106 Gregg Thayer greggcatacom.com 303-444-5545 x103 Matthew Reece mattcatacom.com Editorial Office BikeLife Cities 1515 Walnut Street Boulder CO 80302 Tel 303-444-5545 Fax 800-579-1515 www.bikelifecities.com Advertising Contact salesbikelifecities.com for media kit and rate card. StoryPhoto Submissions Contact editorbikelifecities.com for submission information. Distribution Contact infobikelifecities.com for information. BikeLife Cities is a program of Catalyst Communication Inc. launching in multiple cities. 2015 Catalyst Communication Inc. Taking place on Wednesdays each JVYC gathering typically starts with bike instruction and then free riding where kids practice their skills. On a recent Wednesday the kids pedaled to the Gloo Factory thegloofactory.com where they screen-printed their own bike club T-shirts Read more about the JVYC bike club on page 11. All photos by Stacey Halper ON THE COVER Photo by Stacey Halper A group of kids from Ochoa Community Magnet School in South Tucson walk their bikes and flash the camera a smile during a John Valenzuela Youth Center JVYC bike club gathering. DUNCAN BENNING When hes not managing his bike shop Transit Cycles Duncan can usually be found biking with his wife Rebecca and his kids Camilla 9 and Benito 6 to school and then pedaling to work. The family loves to ride because it allows them to spend time together be good to the environment and stay connected with the community. DAN BAUM The author of several books including Gun Guys A Road Trip Nine Lives Death and Life in New Orleans and Citizen Coors An American Dynasty Dan was also a staff writer for The New Yorker and has reported for the Anchorage Times The Atlanta Journal- Constitution and The Wall Street Journal. STACEY HALPER Stacey is a professional photographer in Tucson specializing in editorial event and fine art photography. Over the course of her 30-year career she has lived in N.Y. L.A. and Austin giving her work a rich varied quality. Since moving back to Tucson in 2012 Stacey has become an avid cyclist. StaceyHalper.com KenRosenthal CONTRIBUTORS RCBicycles.com Tucsons Friendliest Bike Shop Our shop is located near our old stomping grounds next to the U of A come on down 428 N. Freemont Ave. 520.624.2285 7 Welcome Letter 9 I Bike Tucson Meet locals who like to travel on two wheels 10 Safe Routes to School Tucson Encouraging kids to Walk. Bike. Explore. Learn. 13 Get Ready for Bike Fest 2015 30 days of bicycling fun in April 14 5 Reasons Not to Miss Cyclovia Tucson Arizonas biggest block party is April 19 COMMUTE WITH KIDS 28 16 Cycling Fun Just for Kids El Grupos Summer Youth Bike Camp 17 Tucson Bike Map Pull it out and get riding 21 Mountain Biking 101 5 places to pedal for newbie dirt riders 22 Plenty of Pedaling Around Marana Oro Valley These towns have become hotspots for bicyclists 24 The Loop Map Ride where cars cant go 27 Businesses That Like Bikes Meet three that offer deals to cyclists 28 Kidding Around 3 ways to commute by bike with your kids 30 How to Bike Stylish in a Skirt Avoid the dreaded flash with these easy tips 32 Meet Your Local Bike Shops Meet four local shops and their owners 33 Calendar of Events Plus local bike shops groups and clubs 34 The Final Mile How to train yourself to travel via two wheels instead of four ON THE WEB BikeLifeTucson.com FOLLOW US Facebook.comBikeLifeTucson BikeLifeTucson READTHIS ISSUE ONLINE You can access this issue anytime. Share it with your friends by sending a link so they can read it too BLOGS Read fun stories and news about biking. RESOURCES Were your one-stop shop for everything biking in Tucson from places to ride to events bike shops groups and more. TAKE OUR SURVEY What do you think about BikeLife Tucson What would you like to read or write about We want to hear from you. SIGN UP FOR OUR E-NEWSLETTER Well keep you up to date year- round on all kinds of fun interesting and newsworthy bike-related stories. CourtesyofTopeak 5 Securities Offered Through RAYMOND JAMES FINANCIAL SERVICES INC. Member FINRASIPC www.wmpaz.com 520-297-7999 Call Today Make an appointment for your FREE personalized social security maximization report. 15 OFF tune-up 15 OFF nutrition 30 OFF apparel Only at the Tucson location. Expires Oct. 1 2015 Only at the Tucson location. Expires Oct. 1 2015 Only at the Tucson location. Expires Oct. 1 2015 WE HELP YOU PEDAL ON 7090 N. Oracle Rd. Ste. 198 520-219-4311 www.BicycleRanch.com Open 7 days a week Locally owned and operated. Full service family friendly shop 4 TIPS FOR BEGINNER RIDERS 1 Select a Route. Plan your ride with our centerfold map. 2 Start Small. Want to use your bike to get around more You wouldnt run a marathon the first time out and the same is true for biking. Pick destinations close to home and as you build confidence push yourself further. 3 Racks Baskets Bags Help. Instead of wearing a backpack or book bag store your gear in a bag or pannier that attaches to a bike rack. Heck we see a lot of buckets attached to racks and that works too 4 Dust Off Your Bike at Cyclovia Tucson. Suited for all ages and abilities and because the streets are closed to cars Cyclovia is a great place to refresh your riding skills without the stress of traffic. If your bike needs a quick tune bike shops along the route can help you. Learn more on pages 14-15. welcome When many of us were kids we walked or biked to school to parks and to visit friends. If you grew up in the Midwest you probably walked in boots in the winter and rode bikes through snowmelt on warm spring days. If you lived back east or in a desert state you might have coasted down long hills or covered up from the sun in the afternoons. One way or the other though those daily trips often with parents grandparents or friendswere a regular part of your daya fun part In Tucson and surrounding Pima County we have great weather bikeways and resources that make walking and biking possible for everyone. Active travel is a great way for children to commute and explore get exercise connect with their community wake up and get ready for school and learn about safety and independence. As coordinators of the Tucson and Pima County Safe Routes to School SRTS programs we have the privilege of teaming up to teach bicycle safety classes fix bikes provide helmets to kids and lead chaperoned walking groups to and from school. We envision a region where our roadways and paths are safe enough to be vibrant with little wheels and feet a region of health and fun. And fun happens all the time when you mix kids and bikes. Often when we provide Bike Rodeo lessons bike racks overflow from kids who ride to school. Some kids are so enthusiastic that they wear new helmets all day even at lunch. For others bike lessons lead to life-changing moments when they experience the fun of riding with friends or get on a bike for the very first time. We hope for that moment for all kids in southern Arizona. This edition of BikeLife Tucson is full of ideas to encourage Tucsonans to celebrate life on two wheels with a special emphasis on biking with kids. Inside these pages youll find profiles of locals who use bikes in their everyday lives a detailed review of child bike carrier options walkbike to school tips for families and neighbors maps events listings and much more. Happy riding to you and the little ones in your life Sarah Prasek Ignacio Rivera de Rosales Tucson Safe Routes to School Pima County Safe Routes to School Program Manager Bicycle and Pedestrian Educator BikeLife Cities is a program of Catalyst Communication 2015 City of Tucson Resources Contacts Dept. of Transportation 520-837-6691 ann.chaneckatucsonaz.gov tucsonaz.govbicycle Issues of BikeLife Tucson are delivered biannually by mail automobile and of course by bike Chris Cunneely with Space Ship Courier delivers BikeLife Tucson issues by cargo bike. Space Ship Courier specializes in same-day delivery via non-motorized means. They extend their service to anyone in need of things delivered but maintain a focus on catering to the needs of Tucsons independent businesses and full-time residents. You can reach them at 520-477-7292 or spaceshipcouriergmail.com. sarah ignacio 7 Email Stevesabinocycles.com to join our shop rides Well work hard to earn your business. Tucsons Friendly Full Service Bike Shop 7045 East Tanque Verde Road sabinocycles.com520 885-3666 Scott Boocher Steve Wetmore get a FREE class photoRossEvansXTRACYCLE downtown central east checkout only 5 Fit Flexible Get RIDE YOUR BIKE TO CLASS 10X getapunchcardatanyYostudio GOING THE EXTRA MILE FORYOU Native Knowledge - Superior Service - Impeccable Integrity Downtown Office 216 E. Congress Tucson Helping Buyers and Sellers in Central and Downtown Tucson and Surrounding Areas Direct 520.248.9882 ZachZachsMyAgent.com Zach MacDonald Realtor www.ZachsMyAgent.com Zach MacDonald ZachMacDonald Meet local families who like to travel on two wheels I TUCSON Conroy Family Mom Darby Jason 10 Reese 5 Why and where do you like to ride Its FUN to ride around Tucson. We like riding in downtown. Riding is slower you see cool buildings and are part of a cool community. Anything else Tucson is just a cool place to ride Dad Zach Milo 6 What do you like about biking Everythingthe exercise the freedom the social aspect since it is something we can do together as a family. We love riding around town between the University of Arizona and downtown. Zach loves mountain biking too and experiencing nature via the trails. You can cover more ground on a bike than you can hiking. What advice do you have for families who want to try biking Get out there and do it. Use whatever you canyou dont need a fancy bikejust use what is available. MacDonald Family Parents Hector and Virginia Isaiah 6 Ayden 3 What do you like about riding in Tucson Spending time with the family. Its a great time to enjoy and discover new parts of Tucson. We ride anywhere we can. What advice do you have for families who want to try biking Just do it Anything else Check out Isaiahs awesome bell on his bicycle Cruz Family 9 WHY I RIDE SAFE ROUTES to School Tucson I n 1969 nearly half of American children walked or biked to school. Today those numbers have dropped to less than 10 percent. But thanks to the federally-funded Safe Routes to School SRTS program the City of Tucson and Living Streets Alliance are working together to help schools and families encourage kids to walk bike skate and scoot to school. Here in Tucson SRTS launched in October 2014 with International Walk to School Day and a weeklong walkingbiking challenge for elementary and middle school students around the region. During the 20142015 school year SRTS is working closely with four pilot schools providing safe route mapping bicycle education family bike repair fun group rides and other events and incentives to keep kids on the move. Help make walking and biking to school a habit Active travel to school improves child health and boosts academic performance reduces traffic and pollution saves gas and money and is a great way to make connections in your community. Encouraging kids to Walk. Bike. Explore. Learn. INSPIRING MORE KIDS to walk and bike to school one trip at a time AllphotoscourtesyofLivingStreetsAlliance 10 NEWS NOTES APROLL BIKE WALK TO SCHOOL CHALLENGE Lots of SRTS events and activities are available to our schools. Watch for kids around Tucson between April 27May 1 during the spring ApROLL Bike Walk to School Challenge. Schools will promote biking and walking that week with punch cards prizes and other activities. The ApROLL Challenge is open to all elementary and middle schools in Pima County. Encourage your childs school to participate for a week of movement and a chance to win great prizes More information and registration is available at SafeRoutesTucson.org Region-Wide-Events. SHARE THESE SAFETY TIPS WITH KIDDOS Walking Walk on the sidewalk or facing traffic use crosswalks or cross at a corner look leftrightleft make eye contact with drivers. Biking Wear a helmet ride with traffic and obey traffic laws use hand signals make yourself visibleequip your bike with front and rear lights. JVYC YOUTH BIKE CLUB Last fall the John Valenzuela Youth Center JVYC which serves students from Ochoa Magnet Elementary School kicked off the first youth bike club in South Tucson. The club is a collaboration of the JVYC and South Tucsons SRTS with the guidance of BICAS instructors Kristin McRay and Carlyn Arteaga. The goal is to reinforce fundamental bike safety and bike repair through instruction and on-street riding. Not only do the kids gain self-confidence in their biking abilities but they are also connecting to their community spreading a positive message about biking riding past waving neighbors and friends and stopping at local destinations along their routes. This is a great opportunity says Gloria Hamelitz director of the JVYC. Many of our youth come from single- family homes and this has been especially empowering for our girls who can learn how to fix bikes. The club plans to host more community bike repair days and family rides. However to maintain the momentum the club needs bike tools supplies and bikes. Please visit their wish list at BICAS.org. Vanessa Cascio CourtesyofBICAS this has been especially empowering for our girls who can learn how to fix bikes. Heres how you can help Parents Show your kids the best route to school and teach them to walk and bike safely. Walk or bike with them and get some quality time in Play games talk about your day sing or do riddles. Kids Be alert and follow the rules of the road. If possible walk with an adult or buddy. Schools Encourage families to walk and bike by making it fun provide activities and incentives. Participate in region-wide walkbike events such as WALKtober and ApROLL challenges. Visit SafeRoutesTucson.org for ideas resources and event listings. Neighbors Slow down when driving in neighborhoods and near schools. Cheer on neighborhood kids as they bike and walk to school. Learn more at SafeRoutesTucson.org and follow SRTS on Facebook at SRTSTucson THIS YEARS CHALLENGE is April 27May 1 11 Specialized Cannondale Cervelo Wilier Niner Ibis Salsa Pegoretti OPEN 24 HOURS A DAY 365 DAYS A YEAR. 4001 North Country Club Road Tucson 520 795-6960 Must present this ad. New members only. Expires 12312015 We are located on the south side of the Rillito Path between Campbell and Dodge streets. Non-members are always welcome in our restaurant and sports bar so stop by for an ice cold beverage and bite to eat while on The Loop. Get one month free when you pay for two months of membership. ONE MONTH FREE Attention cyclists runners and walkers 30 days of bicycling fun in April F or more than 20 years Tucson has been celebrating life on two wheels with our annual April Bike Fest. What began as a single day of encouragement to leave your car at homeremember the old spare the air sloganBike Fest has ballooned to fill an entire month with bike rides raffles parties and more. Last year there were more than 50 bike-related events and this year is promising to be even bigger Theres the fabulous Cyclovia Tucson on April 19 see pages 1415 for details when thousands of people will hit the streets on two wheels and two feet. But thats just the beginning. Other fun events planned so far include an overnight bike camping trip for families April 25-26 the Second Annual Bicycle Easter Egg Hunt on April 5 and return of the much-loved 2-Mile Commuter Challenge that runs throughout the month. A huge celebration is in the works to wrap up Bike Fest on April 30. One of the features of Bike Fest Tucson is that anyonethat means YOUcan dream up a Bike Fest event and list it on the website BikeFestTucson.com says Kylie Walzak program manager for Living Streets Alliance which organizes Bike Fest. If youve got a fun event idea head to the Bike Fest website for details on planning and hosting. Were hoping to double the number of events to 100 this year Celebrating life on two wheels COMPETE in the 2 mile COMMUTER CHALLENGE LOG YOUR BIKE TRIPS TO WIN PRIZES JOIN IN one of many THEMED RIDES and EVENTS throughout the region Visit bikefesttucson.com for details. DOZENS OF FUN FREE BICYCLE EVENTS GIVEAWAYS PRIZES HOST BIKE-TO-WORK BREAKFAST OR HAPPY HOURS Get Ready For BIKE FEST 2015 FOR THE LATEST EVENT UPDATES visit BikeFestTucson.com and follow Bike Fest on Facebook Bike-Fest-Tucson. 13 FUN STUFF 5 Reasons Not to Miss CYCLOVIA TUCSON M ark your calendar for Sunday April 19 because Cyclovia is back Join tens of thousands of your friends and neighbors for an unforgettable ride roll or stroll through historic Tucson neighborhoods and past local businesses lush community gardens and distinctive public artall along a five-mile-long CAR- FREE route. Enjoy plenty of food music and fun activities along the way too. And remember you dont need a bike to participate. Many people love to walk the whole or part of the route each year taking their time to soak in the surroundings that are often easily missed when traveling by automobile. HERE ARE THE TOP 5 REASONS to check out the spring Cyclovia Tucson on Sunday April 19 1 World-Famous Mexican Food. The route connects Downtown Tucson to the City of South Tucson home to some of the best Mexican restaurants in the entire southwest. After working up an appetite playing in car-free streets all day youll be ready to order a heaping platter ARIZONAS BIGGEST BLOCK PARTY IS APRIL 19 of enchiladas or a massive chimichanga. Some of the best restaurants are located right along the route on South 4th Avenue with a few treasures like El Torero and Pico de Gallo just off the route. Look for Restaurant Row on the official Cyclovia Tucson route maps available at any information booth or water station. 2 Its Just Like Riding a Bike. Theres no better place to bring a beginner cyclist concerned about safety and road conditions or who hasnt been on a bike for some time. Cyclovia Tucson is the perfect place to get back on your bike and see if the old saying is true. 3 Everyone Loves a Scavenger Hunt. The Cinco for Cyclovia scavenger hunt is a fun way to discover and explore up to 25 unique memorable activities provided by local Tucson businesses and organizations along the route. Complete your card to enter a raffle for great prizes from local bike shops restaurants boutiques and more. Look for Cinco for Cyclovia cards at any information booth or water station. 4 Come As You Are. One of the best things about Cyclovia Tucson is that it is completely free. Theres no need to register ahead of timeits not competitive nor is it a race. And you certainly dont need any special equipment clothing or gear to participate. You can literally stumble upon the Cyclovia Tucson route and go with the flowmany people have found out about Cyclovia just this way 5 Cyclovia Makes It Easy to Make Sunday April 19 a Car-Free Day. There are a number of ways to arrive at the spring Cyclovia Tucson route without using your car. If youre familiar with The Loop see map on pages 22-23 the Cyclovia route is only five blocks from the Santa Cruz River path at Cushing Street near the Mercado San Agustn. Cyclovia Tucson is also easy to access from the Sun Link Modern Streetcar or Sun Tranyou can bring your bikes on both. For more event details be sure to like Cyclovia Tucsons Facebook page and visit CycloviaTucson.org for frequent updates. See you there CourtesyofLivingStreetsAlliance 14 FUN STUFF 21st ST PUSH BUTTON SIGNAL CROSSING PUSH BUTTON SIGNAL CROSSING PUSH BUTTON SIGNAL CROSSING PASADERA BEHAVIORAL HEALTH NETWORK APRIL 19 DOMINGO 19 DE ABRIL 10AM - 3PM DEL CENTRO DE TUCSON A LA CUIDAD DE SOUTH TUCSON SUNDAY APRIL 19TH 10AM - 3PM FROM DOWNTOWN TO SOUTH TUCSON CYCLOVIATUCSON CYCLOVIA TUCSON CYCLOVIATUCSON.ORG 520.261.8777 APRIL 19 12 mile 1 2 km CAR CROSSING SCHOOLS PARKS CYCLOVIA ROUTE WATER INFO STATIONS RESTROOMS PARKING RESTROOMS P PUNTOS DE CRUZAR PARA CARROS ESCUELAS PARQUES RUTA DE LA CYCLOVIA ESTACIONES DE AGUA E INFORMACIN LOS BAOS AREA DE ESTACIONAMIENTO WATER INFO STATIONS ESTACIONES DE AGUA E INFORMACIN Cyclovia Tucson is a project of 15 Cycling Fun JUST FOR KIDS El Grupos Summer Youth Bike Camp SUMMER BIKE CAMP DATES Session 1 June 1-5 8 am1230 pm Session 2 June 812 8 am1230 pm Session 3 July 2024 8 am1230 pm Youth Bike Camp staffing offers campers a unique assortment of mentors. In addition to highly trained adult staff members several Team El Grupo members serve as youth mentors and model healthy choices for campers. If youve never heard about Team El Grupo before youll be impressed by this youth cycling team ElGrupoCycling.org. When theyre not working at bike camp Team El Grupo members practice together regularly and contribute to the community by leading bike rides. Most members also race competitively. BIKE CAMP T his summer local non- profit El Grupo will continue its popular weeklong bike camps for kids ages seven to 14. Children are grouped by skill level for each session but everyone is welcome and will learn something newfrom self- identified experts to kids who have never before ridden a bike. In each session campers practice safe riding skills bike maintenance and bike handling drills. They also learn about issues related to bicycling including air quality proper hydration and nutrition and recycled bike art. El Grupo works hard to make Summer Youth Bike Camp available to any child who wants to participate. In 2014 with funding support from local governments Specialized and University of Arizona Medical Center El Grupo offered several scholarships to children in need. El Grupo plans to offer scholarships again in 2015. More confident kid cyclist more family bike trips My sons confidence skyrocketedThey were happily exhausted every day They loved logging the miles and gaining confidence with more tricks FIND MORE AT ElGrupoCycling.orgProgramsYouth-Summer-Bike-Camp CourtesyofElGrupoCycling 16 FUN STUFF TucsonBikewaysTucsonBikeways SHARED-USEPATHNomotorvehicles usecautionatintersections BIKEBOULEVARDLowertrafficlowerspeed streetwithbiketravelprioritizedimprovements SEPARATEDBIKELANEMarkedbikelane physicallyseparatedfrommotortraffic ENHANCEDBIKEROUTELowertrafficstreet withbiketravelprioritizedimprovements BIKEROUTELowertrafficstreet withBikeRoutesigns BIKELANEPaintedlaneonhigher trafficstreetwithhigherspeeds NOBIKEFACILITIESNobikelanesor improvementsthatprioritizebiketravel SUNLINKSTREETCAR Bicyclistsusecaution LIBRARY PUSHBUTTONCROSSING Signalizedcrossingsonbusystreets TRAFFICSIGNAL BIKESHOPKnownservicelocationsasof spring2015printing.Toaddashopemail bikewaysmapPAGregion.com. TucsonBikewaysPulloutcenterspreadforfullmap. TheLoop Fordetailedmappima.govTheLoop AdditionalBikeMapsWhilewehavemadeeveryefforttoprovideahigh-quality accurateanduseablemapthedepictedbikewayinformationis advisoryonly.Mapusersassumeallrisksastothequalityand accuracyofthemapinformationandagreethattheiruseisat theirownrisk.Pleaseridecarefully. MapdatamaintainedbyPimaCountyCityofTucsonandPAG. Sendquestionsorcommentsregardingthismapto bikewaysmapPAGregion.com. TheLoopMap pima.govTheLoop UniversityofArizonaCampusBikeMap parking.arizona.edupdfmapsbike_routes.pdf TucsonMetroBikeMap bikeped.pima.govPublications.html MOUNTAIN BIKING 101 Best places to pedal for newbie dirt riders T ucson is a great place to mountain bike with plenty of trails for all levels. Want to give it a try The Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists website SDMB.org features a ton of information including mountain biking tips and trail information. Here SDMB highlights some great ride options for beginners and families. Southeast TucsonVail Area Bunny Trail at Fantasy Island 5 miles. This trail is especially beautiful in late winter and early spring when wildflowers are in bloom. More info sdmb.orgtrailsfantasy-island Hope Camp Trail in Saguaro National Park East 7 miles one way. This ride is a slight downhill on the way out a gradual climb on the way back. More info mtbproject.com search for Hope Camp Trail Vail AZ Central Tucson Dirt trail that runs parallel to The Loop along the Rillito River About 4 good dirt miles between Craycroft Road to the Country Club Bridge. Craycroft Road is a good place to park to access the dirt on the north bank. More info pima.govtheloop Northwest Tucson Arthur Pack Regional Park About 5 miles of trails. Riding is allowed on parts of the Maeveen Behan Desert Sanctuary trails which are flat and filled with desert beauty. More info Park located at 9101 N. Thornydale Rd. Tortolita Preserve 9.9 miles. This single-track loop of sand some hard pack and rocks winds through a beautiful ironwood forest. More info sdmb.org trailstortolita-preserve WANT TO IMPROVE YOUR MOUNTAIN BIKE SKILLS Sign up for a lesson with Fat Tire Finesse. They offer fun clinics for small groups or one-on-one instruction. Find them on Facebook under Fat Tire Finesse or email fattirefinessegmail.com. SONORAN DESERT MOUNTAIN BICYCLISTS SDMB is an all-volunteer non-profit organization devoted to promoting mountain biking to all levels and ages around Tucson. The group hosts events and monthly volunteer trail work and trail building days. The SDMB website is a handy resource for finding events and trails to ride as well as to stay up-to-date and help on the groups trail advocacy efforts. Learn more about becoming a member too SDMB.org Trail ideas come from Martha Lemen riding in the above photo a professional mountain bike instructor and advocacy director for the SDMB. PhotoscourtesyofSDMB WITH MORE THAN 300 MILES OF VARIED SINGLE-TRACK in and around Tucson through beautiful desert areas mountain biking options abound for all ages and abilities. 21 FUN STUFF Plenty of Pedaling Around Marana Oro Valley Situated just northwest of Tucson these towns have become hotspots for bicyclists Its very important for us at HMS Bikes to be operating in and part of a community like Marana. When as a business you are promoting cycling it is crucial that local government understands the importance of providing and maintaining safe places to ride. Mike Swart owner of HMS Bikes in Marana L ooking to experience beautiful mountain vistas and wide-open spaces on two wheels Look no further than Marana and Oro Valley. The two towns are great destinations for cyclists of all levels with routes that challenge even the most seasoned riders to pathways that are perfectly suited for fun family rides. There are a number of great bike rides within the Town of Marana on 17 miles of paved shared-use paths and approximately 40 miles of trails several of which are suitable for mountain biking. Those who prefer to ride on pavement can take advantage of a growing system of bike routes and multi-use lanes including bike lanes along Silverbell Road that travel through the Continental Ranch development west of Interstate 10. Prefer not to pedal with traffic Check out shared- use paths along Tangerine Farms Road and Twin Peaks Road or the popular Santa Cruz River Shared-Use Path. FUN RIDES Santa Cruz River Shared-Use Path 9.65-mile paved shared-use path that parallels the Santa Cruz River with options for additional mileage on adjacent routes. Dove Mountain Boulevard 7-mile ride from Tangerine Road to the esteemed Ritz-Carlton Dove Mountain in the Tortolita Mountains. Find maps and info at MaranaAZ.gov and more fun info at Facebook.com TownofMaranaAZ. MARANA Mike Swart HMS Bikes CourtesyofTownofMarana 22 FUN STUFF PLANNING FOR BIKES PEDESTRIANS Both Marana and Oro Valley are committed to increasing bicycle awareness by planning and developing exceptional infrastructure for residents and visitors. These efforts include ORO VALLEY Named a silver-level Bicycle Friendly City by the League of American Bicyclists in November 2013 the Town of Oro Valley has plenty of great places to ride. There are 79 miles of bicycle routes and paths within the town including 33.5 miles of signed bike routes 24.5 miles of paved shoulders and 21 miles of shared-use paths. In addition all new commercial facilities in town are required to have bike parking so that bicyclists who pedal to shopping schools and other businesses will have a safe place to park their bikes. FUN RIDES Rancho Vistoso Boulevard Loop 7.85 miles along a rolling paved road with bike lane markings plus options for additional mileage on adjacent routes. CDO Shared Use Path 4-mile paved path along the banks of the Caada del Oro Wash. Find bike maps and info at OroValleyAZ.gov and more town happenings at Facebook.comOroValleyAZ.gov. Tangerine Road Corridor With its rolling hills and scenic vistas the Tangerine Road corridor offers great cycling between Marana and Oro Valley. Both towns are working together on planned improvements to greatly enhance the roadway and provide for safe and comfortable interaction between vehicles and bicyclists. In collaboration with Pima County reconstruction is planned for a 10-mile stretch from Interstate 10 to La Caada Drive that includes widening the road to four lanes adding multi-use lanes and a shared-use path and eliminating dip crossings to improve accessibility during heavy rains. Final design for the first phase is expected to be completed this fall. EL TOUR DE TUCSON Tangerine Road is a key segment on the route of the annual El Tour de Tucson held the Saturday before Thanksgiving November 21 2015. This fun cycling event attracts more than 9000 cyclists of all ages and abilities. Registration is open dont miss out on early-bird fees PerimeterBicycling. comEl-Tour-de-Tucson planning for multimodal transportation opportunities allowing bicycle commuters to ride safely to work school or other activities. Maranas Town Council has adopted three essential planning documents that demonstrate its vision commitment and expectations for providing the best facilities the Marana General Plan the Parks Recreation Trails and Open Space Master Plan and the recently adopted Strategic Plan III. Similarly the Town of Oro Valley has the Towns Bicycle and Pedestrian Plan the Parks Open Space and Trails Plan and the Trails Task Force Report. The Town Council has shown its commitment to providing bicycling facilities and multimodal elements by adopting its 2020 General Plan as well as in the two-year Strategic Plan. El Tour de Tucson CourtesyofTownofOroValley 23 TOHONO OODHAM NATION SAN XAVIER DISTRICT TOHONO OODHAM NATION PASCUAYAQUI TRIBE AJO IRVINGTON KINNEY VALENCIA DREXEL STARR PASS SPEEDWAYSPEEDWAY GRANT RIVER SWAN ALVERNON CAMPBELLCAMPBELL COUNTRYCLUB ALVERNON SWAN MIDVALEPARK CARDINAL OLDNOGALESHWYFIRST STONE ORACLE ORACLE COUNTRYCLUB LACAADA LACAADA LACHOLLA THORNYDALE CORTARO TANGERINE TANGERINE FIRST SILVERBELL EL CAMINO DEL CERRO TWINPEAKS AVRAVALLEY SANDERS LAMBERT NARANJA OVERTON MAGEE INA ORANGE GROVE SANXAVIERLOOP 19 10 TUCSON MARANA OROVALLEY SOUTH TUCSON GATESPASS SKYLINE LINDAVISTA PICTURE ROCKS HARTMAN SUNSET SWEETWATER ANKLAM CONGRESS IRONWOOD HILL 6TH MISSION KINO HUGHES ACCESS LACHOLLA SantaCruzRiverPark CATALINA CaadadelOroRiverPa rk AJO SantaCruz RiverPark Rillito RiverPark SantaCruzRiver Park Brandi Fenton Memorial Park George Mehl Fam Foothills Park Childrens Memorial Park Gladden Farms Neighborhood Park Marana Heritage Park El Rio Park Crossroads at Silverbell District Park Mike Jacob Sports Park Ted Walker Park Wade McLean Park Flowing Wells Park Curtis Park Sweetwater Wetlands Christopher Columbus Park Silverbell Golf Course Rillito Regional Park and Rillito Racetrack Kino Sports Comp Willie Blake Park El Paseo de los Arboles Sentinel Peak Park Verdugo Park Augie Acu Pa NorthwestYMCA and Northwest Community Park Caada del Oro Riverfront Park Christina-Taylor Green Memorial River Park Dan Felix Memorial Park Kory Laos Memorial Freestyle BMX Park Sun Circle Santa Cruz Park El Rio Golf Course Joaquin Murrieta Park Juan Juhan Park Kino Enviro Restoration Rio Vista Park Sam Lena Park Aviation Golf Links Pathway Catalina State Park U of A 1024 - october 2014 bike life magazine When completed The Loop will be a 130-mile system of shared use paths and short segments of bike lanes connecting the Rillito Santa Cruz and Pantano River Parks with the Julian Wash and Harrison Road Greenways. More than 110 miles of paths have already been completed. The Loop will extend through Marana Oro Valley Tucson and South Tucson. The Loop will connect parks trailheads bus and bike routes workplaces restaurants schools hotels and motels shopping areas and entertainment venues. Visitors and Pima County residents can enjoy The Loop on foot bikes skates and horses. If it doesnt have an engine its good to go on The Loop. The Loop is a work in progress and projects are being completed every day. Stay up-to-date on developments on The Loop by visiting www.pima.govTheLoop www.facebook.comrideTheLoop 24 FUN STUFF IRVINGTON VALENCIA 22ND BROADWAY RIVER TANQUEVERDE GOLF LINKS HOUGHTON HOUGHTON FREEMAN HARRISONHARRISON KOLBKOLB WILMOT WILMOT CRAYCROFT RITA 10 OLDVAIL ESCALANTE CAMINOSECO PANTANO PANTANO CATALINAHWY BEARCANYON SABINOCANYON CLOUD PantanoRiverPark ESCALANTE Julia n Wash Green w ay OLDS PANISH TRAIL OLDSPANISHTRAIL On Street Segment Tanque VerdeW ash ATIR mily k Ft. Lowell Park Morris K. Udall Regional Center plex Thomas Jay Regional Park a Los Nios ark Pima Air and Space Museum Michael Perry Park Stefan Gollob Park Abraham Lincoln Park Fantasy Island Mountain Bike Trails Park Purple Heart Park onmental n Project k Saguaro National Park Roy Schoonover Trailhead Scale in Miles 0 4.02.01.0 HarrisonGreenway SUXEN On Street Segment Completed Path Under Design or Construction Planning IMBA Half Pg Ad.indd 1 3515 1132 AM AJO BIKES 1301 E. AJO WAY 520-294-1434 MonSat 9am6pm Tucsons Recumbent Headquarters 1O OFF 50 OFF With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 51515. With this coupon. Not valid with other offers. Offer expires 51515. any purchase of 50 or more any bicycle tire or tube with purchase of one of equal or greater value Trek Bicycles of Tucson Family Owned and Operated We also carry Electra bikes and work on all brands and models. Two store locations M-F 10-7 Sat 10-5 Sun 12-4 Oro Valley 520 797-9330 7645 N. Oracle Ste 100 Ft. Lowell520 327-2265 1800 E. Fort Lowell Ste 100 tboftucson Tucsons largest selection of Trek bicycles. TrekBicyclesOfTucson.com BUY 1 TUBE GET 1 FREE BUY 1 PAIR OF SHORTS GET ANY JERSEY 12 PRICE Not to be combined with any other offers. Expires 73115. Not to be combined with any other offers. Expires 73115. IMBA supports trails in Arizona and across the nation. Special gifts and prizes available during our spring membership drive Join renew or register now at imba.comjoin No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited. US Residents only. See imba.comjoin for rules and details. Presents THE WEEKLY BIKE RIDE LIST To receive the list please text call or e-mail DamionDamionAlexander.com 520-977-LONG 5664 Download your FREE home search app httplongrealtyapp.comdamionalexander 7431 S. Houghton Rd. Tucson 520-574-2453 BensBikesTucson.com Open 7 days a week Giant Redline Haro Nirve Mention this ad and receive a free gift Tucson has many great local businesses that support bicyclists with special deals. Meet three of them. Businesses That Like Bikes ATHENA GARMENTS 520-203-7010 athenagarments.com The Deal Handmade biking skirts and kilts for 59 each. Ten years ago Robin Ann Hall launched her clothing business Athena Garments. Robins handmade biking skirts for gals and kilts for guys are roomy with reflective tape for visibility. They also come in many fun patterns. The Day of the Dead pattern with dancing skeletons is among the most popular says Robin. Purchase items via the website or by visiting The Loop Bicycle Shop. You can also buy a skirt directly from Robin who rides her two-wheeled store to bike events including Cyclovia. SIDECAR BAR 139 S. Eastbourne Ave. 520-795-1819 barsidecar.com The Deal 15 discount on any drink on Tuesdays when you bike or walk. Owner and operating partner Ari and bar manager Niccy describe Sidecar as a neighborhood craft cocktail bar that also has a great beer selection. Sidecars midtown location makes for easy biking from any corner of Tucson and theres plenty of bike parking near the bar. If youre pedaling downtown for a show Sidecar can be a great mid-point to stop for a drink says Niccy. 5 POINTS MARKET RESTAURANT 1760 S. Stone Ave. 520-623-3888 5pointstucson.com The Deal 1 discount on entrees if you bike or walk on Wednesdays. Co-owners Brian and Jasper describe 5 Points as a neighborhood restaurant for breakfast lunch and dinner. We try to use as many local ingredients as possible cook good food and be a fun place for people to hang out says Brian. While many local establishments offer discounts on Tuesdays to coincide with Tucsons Tuesday Night Rides 5 Points offers their discount on Wednesdays because We thought cyclists might need something to eat the following day says Brian with a smile. IF YOUR BUSINESS OFFERS DISCOUNTS TO CYCLISTS and you would like to be featured as a bike-friendly business in our next issue email details to editorbikelifecities.com. The Day of the Dead pattern with dancing skeletons is among the most popular 27 FUN STUFF MartinSundberg Commuting around by bike is fun. And its even more fun when you can get your kids involved too. If thinking about transporting your kids via two wheels seems in- timidating with a little planning its quite doable. Read on for three ways to travel with kids that are easy and safe and sure to bring a smile to everyones face. kidding around 3 ways to commute by bike with your kids By Duncan Benning yuba cargo bike 28 Duncan Benning owns Transit Cycles bike shop in Tucson with a focus on educating and enabling customers to use bikes for transportation. Duncan his wife and two kids travel by bike as often as possible. BIKE TRAILER A bike trailer is a great option for carrying kids ages one to six as well as cargo like groceries or backpacks. Most trailers have a maximum load limit of 100 pounds. Many trailers also offer various types of quick- release hitches enabling you to quickly remove them from your bike so you can ride unencumbered. Models come in a broad range of prices. The Thule Cadence 299.95 and Burleys top of the line DLite 629 are shown. WHATS A LONG JOHN Also called a Bakfiet this bike style is very popular in Europe. Because of their size though they are difficult to find in great numbers on shop floors in the U.S. That said if you look around you can find shops in many bike-friendly cities that sell them. Cetma Cargo is a brand built in southern California. They offer three different sizes the most popular is the Largo 4395 with space for two or three kids plus room for groceries. cetmacargo.com Do you get sticker shock looking at prices of the ways to commute with kids by bike Consider the following It costs an average of 9519 a year to operate a mid-size car. Source AAA 50 of all trips Americans make are 3 miles or less 40 are 2 miles or less 28 are shorter than 1 mile. Source PeopleForBikes What if you invested in some kid-carrying gear and took a few of these trips via bike Just think of the longer-term savings. PLUS youll leave less of a carbon footprint youll get exercise and youll always find a free parking space CARGO BIKE Cargo bikes are another fun way to commute with kids. They come in two general categories Long Tails and Long Johns see sidebar. Long Tails carry the bulk of the load behind the rider while Long Johns place the load in front. Xtracycle 14992899 and Yuba 12993499 are popular Long Tail brands. They each offer an array of accessories to help adapt their bikes to various types of use. For example XtraCycle allows you to use two child seats at the same time a child seat along with an older child or as many as three kids all sitting on the rear deck. All of this with plenty of space for cargo. Worried about carrying such a heavy load Some cargo bikes come with electric assist for an extra boost when pedaling. xtracycle thule cadence burley dlite cetma cargo bakfiet CHILD BIKE SEAT Child seats are similar to automobile booster seats and are designed to attach over the top of the back wheel of most standard bicycles. These seats make great child carriers for a younger child beginning at about one year old. Most seats have a maximum weight limit of about 45 pounds. One popular brand is Yepps Maxi Rear Bicycle Child Carrier 229.95 made of shock-absorbant water- resistant rubber. Topeaks Babyseat III 159.99 offers lots of features and adjustability at a good value. yepp maxi topeak babyseat iii 29 TanyaDueriPhotography F irst a quick discussion about the type of bike you ride If you have a step-through frame a bike with a dropped center tube biking in a skirt is much easier. If you have the standard triangle-framed bike you have to get a little creative. Here are my top tips based on the type of skirt you want to wear. Mini-Skirt or Pencil Skirt. Since these are often tight I recommend choosing a stretchy option that will allow for more comfort and flexibility while you ride. If your skirt is super short and tight one option is to hold down the center of the skirt to your seat with one hand while you ride. There is no getting around the awkwardness of this move and it can be tricky and possibly dangerous so I recommend wearing short spandex shorts underneath your skirt to avoid flashing your skivvies. Bikie Girl Bloomers are a fun option bikiegirlbloomers.com. Knee-Length Skirt. These are the easiest skirts to bike in with enough material and coverage to easily avoid flashing as you ride. Wind can be an issue with these skirts so consider investing in a skirt weight visit TandemNY.com for more on this cool product or check out the Penny in Yo Pants video on YouTube. When you get off your bike scoop the skirt material between your legs so you avoid flashing. Long Skirt. Tie the extra material in a knot at the side of your thigh so it doesnt get caught in your pedals or bike chain. When you dismount hold the material between your legs or find a wall or an alleyway to hop off your bike near your destination. Remember flashing a wall is fine Now throw on your cutest skirt and get out and bike stylishly Jeanne Eisenhaure writes about being bike stylish on her blog BikeStylish.com. I get this question all the time I would bike buthow would I wear a skirt and ride without flashing everyone My answer Its simple Here are a few tricks to make pedaling in a skirt no matter what the lengtha breeze. HOW TO BIKE STYLISH IN A SKIRT Avoid the dreaded flash with these easy tips By Jeanne Eisenhaure 31 Meet your LOCAL BIKE SHOPS Looking to buy a new bike Does your bike need a tune-up Need a new helmet or lights Have questions about where to ride Your local shop can help. RC BICYCLES 428 North Fremont Ave. rcbicycles.com Chris Baker and Ryan Wertz run RC Bicycles which aims to be accessible for new bicyclists while meeting all the needs of regular riders. Chris says you wont find any high-pressure salesmen at his shop just knowledgeable employees who like to keep it low-key and have fun. RC Bicycles can help you pick out a mountain bike to take on Tucsons trails a road bike to race on or a cruiser to pedal around townor theyll happily fix a bike you already own. ARIZONA BICYCLE EXPERTS 2801 East Speedway Blvd. abecycling.com Michael Stimpsons love for bicycling began when he was 17 and on a cross-country bike trip. After settling in Tucson Michael worked at Arizona Bicycle Experts for five years before taking over the shop in 2000. Were all mechanicsnot salespeople here says Michael. We focus on making sure that bikes are put together well. Looking for a new bike Count on shop staff to help you find the right one for your riding style and your budget. ARIZONA CYCLIST 2 locations5350 E. Broadway and 4300 N. Campbell Ave. arizonacyclist.com Steve Ford got his first Italian 10-speed in college and its been a love affair with biking ever since. In 2008 he became the owner of Arizona Cyclist. Our shop covers the gamut for cyclists he says. We start entry level and can take you up as high as you want. Arizona Cyclist specializes in mountain and road bikes as well as time trial bikes. The shop also offers full-service repairs as well as professional bike fitting. BICYCLE RANCH 7090 N. Oracle Rd. bicycleranch.com With a background in customer service and a love of cycling it was a natural for Steve Morganstern to open Bicycle Ranch in 2013. All bikes and types of bicyclists get treated equally at our shop says Steve. I particularly love getting people back on bikes who havent been on them for years and see the smile on their face. Steve also likes to give back to the community with weekly shop rides training rides for the Ride the Child part of El Tour de Tucson tandem rides for Arizona Velo Vets as well as sponsoring various bike and triathlon teams. The friendly staff at Arizona Cyclist Steve Morganstern Bicycle Ranch Michael StimpsonArizona Bicycle ExpertsChris BakerRC Bicycles See our full list of bike shops on the next page. 32 RESOURCES calendar bike shops group rides apriljune July sept BikeFest Tucson bikefesttucson.com 1-30 4 12th Annual Bicycle Scavenger Hunt elgrupocycling.org GABA Bicycle Swap Meet bikegaba.org 19 Cyclovia cycloviatucson.org 5 Points Bikes 702 S Stone Ave. 520-624-7204 5pointsbikes.com Ajo Bikes 1301 E. Ajo Way 520-294-1434 ajobikes.com Arizona Bicycle Experts 2801 E Speedway 520-881-2279 abecycling.com Arizona Cyclist 2 locations 5350 E. Broadway 520-745-8020 4300 N. Campbell Ave. 520-615-7570 arizonacyclist.com Bargain Basement Bikes 428 N Fremont Ave. 520-624-2331 Bens Bikes 7431 S. Houghton Rd. 520-624-2331 bensbikestucson.com BICAS 44 W 6th St. 520-628-7950 bicas.org Bicycle Ranch Tucson 7090 N. Oracle Rd. 520-219-4311 bicycleranch.com Tucson has countless groups that coordinate group rides to support each other and promote cycling in general. Here are a few that welcome cyclists of all abilities. Greater Arizona Bicycling Association GABA promotes and encourages bicycle riding for recreation fitness and transportation by offering local day rides and multi-day rides in Arizona and New Mexico. bikegaba.org El Grupo Youth Cycling This youth cycling team works to empower kids through bicycles. elgrupocycling.org Cactus Cycling Club Cactuss motto No behind left behind highlights their enthusiasm for helping new riders. cactuscycling.org Tuesday Night Community Bike Ride This informal group ride meets at the Flag pole outside of Old Main on UA Campus every Tuesday night at 8 p.m. The route changes every week. Find out more via Facebook at Tuesday Night Ride. MOUNTAIN BIKING Sonoran Desert Mountain Bicyclists All volunteer non-profit that promotes mountain biking through riding and social events trail building education and other activities. sdmb.org Bike MastersGilbert 1880 E Tangerine Rd. 480-857-7000 bikemastersaz.com Bike Shop Hub 2801 N. Flowing Wells Rd. 800-717-2596 bikeshophub.com Bookmans Sports Exchange 3330 E Speedway Blvd. 520-881-7329 bookmanssports.com Craycroft Cycles 5941 E 22nd St. 520-745-2453 craycroftcycles.com Fair Wheel Bicycles 1110 E 6th St. 520-884-9018 fairwheelbikes.com Fitworks Cycling Support 118 S 5th Ave. 520-906-0409 fitworkscycling.com HMS BikesMarana 8225 N Courtney Page Way 520-989-0196 hmsbikes.com JJ Bicycles LLC 640 N Stone Ave. 520-882-8858 The Loop Bicycle Shop 3201 W Diamond St. 520-909-6288 tucsonsloopbikeshop gmail.com MAY 15 23-25 Mt. Lemmon Hill Climb bikegaba.org Luna Lake Overnight Tour bikegaba.org 1-5 8-12 20-24 5-7 Kids Bike Camp elgrupocycling.org Kids Bike Camp elgrupocycling.org Trail of the Mountain Spirits Tour bikegaba.org Metro Gnome Music Cycle to Go 4044 E. Speedway Blvd. 520-320-3780 cycletogo.com Miles Ahead Cyclery 7000 E. Tanque Verde Rd. 520-751-0555 milesaheadcyclery.com Ordinary Bike Shop 311 E 7th St. 520-622-6488 ordinarybikeshop.com Oro Valley Bicycle 3 locations 12925 N. Oracle Rd. 520-825-2751 2850 W. Ina Rd. 520-544-5999 4749 E. Sunrise Dr. 520-577-5511 orovalleybicycle.com Performance Bicycles 3302 E Speedway Blvd. 520-327-3232 performancebike.com Pima Street Bicycle 5247 E Pima St. 520-326-4044 pimastreetbicycle.com Pro Bike Tucson 6540 E Tanque Verde Rd. 520-722-2453 probiketucson.com RC Bicycles 428 N Fremont Ave. 520-624-2285 rcbicycles.com REI Tucson Mall 160 W Wetmore Rd. 520-887-1938 rei.comtucson Roadrunner Bicycles 6177 E Broadway Blvd. 520-790-9394 roadrunnerbicycles.com Ruthrauff Road Bicycle Repair 2430 W Ruthrauff Rd 100 520-293-6144 Sabino Cycles 7045 E. Tanque Verde Rd. 520-885-3666 sabinocycles.com State Bicycle Co. 323 E. 8th St. 855-55-STATE statebicycle.com Transit Cycles 100 S Avenida Del Convento 520-396-4525 transitcycles.com Trek Bicycles of Tucson 2 locations 1800 E. Fort Lowell Rd. 520-327-2265 7645 N. Oracle Rd. 520-797-9330 trekbicyclesoftucson.com 33 C limate change fitness and the price of gas are good reasons to transition from car to bike but the best reason is that using a bike for commuting or errands is infinitely more pleasant. When you ride you have the breeze in your face and you notice all kinds of thingsfrom lawn art to sprouting crocusesyou miss from behind a windshield. You feel connected to pedestrians and playing children and you arrive at your destination with no parking hassles your blood full of oxygen. Studies by the British New Economic Foundation reveal that cyclists find their mode of transport at least as flexible and convenient as those who use cars with lower stress and greater feelings of freedom relaxation and excitement. The trick is training yourself to reach first for the bike helmet instead of the car keys. Doing so is largely a matter of challenging your assumptions about how life has to be organized. Think you dont have time to get around by bike For trips of three miles or less riding is about as quick as driving because side streets and paths through parks make it easier to avoid stoplights and you can zip right past traffic. The workout youll get around town on a bike might even save you a trip to the gym. You may not be able to buy a weeks worth of changing habitsTraining yourself to travel via two wheels instead of four By Dan Baum groceries and pick up the dry cleaning all in one bike trip but that can be a good thing. When life slows to the speed of a bike you dont try to do too many things at once. To make the leap from car to bike dont demand too much of yourself. Your job may be too far to bike to but what about your local supermarket the hardware store the movie theater or the post office Instead of hitting these places while driving home from work try going home first and getting the bike its a great way to unwind and move your body after sitting all day. Put your helmet where you usually leave your keys so as you reach you can ask yourself Could I do this on a bike Its a matter of developing the habit and studies show that its never too late to break old ones and develop new ones. The Society for Personality and Social Psychology has found that it takes from 15 to 254 days to develop a new habit and that its easier if you use a natural disruption in your lifemoving a new job a vacationto change one habit to another because the cues on which your habitual behavior relied disappear. Even a small change presents an opportunity. Youll need of course a bike that youll be comfortable riding. It doesnt have to be brand new or cost a lot but it should fit you and be in good shape. Your local bike shop can help. Your local shop can also help you with the extras a rack to hold either baskets or panniers to carry things a good lock a helmet lights for front and back and for wet streets fenders. I got creative and zip-tied a seven-dollar lockable tackle box to my rack so I have a secure place to keep lights tools a spare tube a reflective windbreaker and a credit card. Once equipped start exploring alternatives to the big fast roads. Side streets parks schoolyards and alleys are a parallel universe that you may never have seen before and they can get you across town with surprising speed. Start slow. Choose nice days. Do one errand at a time. Its a head shift as much as anything to switch from car to bike. But its worth it. Dan Baum is the author of four books and was a staff writer for The New Yorker. He and his wife Meg enjoy biking and use bike share to explore a city whenever they can. ask yourself Could I do this on a bike IllustrationbyMikeReisel 34 THE FINAL MILE WERE LOOKING FORWARD TO HELPING YOU FIND YOUR PERFECT BIKE Bicycle Ranch Tucson 7090 N Oracle Rd Tucson AZ 85704 520-219-4311 www.bicycleranch.com Bens Bikes 7431 South Houghton Road Tucson AZ 85747 520-574-2453 www.bensbikestucson.com Roadrunner Bicycles 6177 East Broadway Boulevard Tucson AZ 85711 520-790-9394 www.bikeazcomcast.net Probike 6540 Tanque Verde Tucson AZ 85715 520-722-2453 www.probiketucson.com Fitworks Cycling Support 118 South 5th Avenue Tucson AZ 85701 520-906-0409 www.fitworkscycling.com GET ACTIVEDISCOVER NEW LOWER PRICES ON OUR BEST SELLING LIFESTYLE AND YOUTH BIKES GIANT-BICYCLES.COMGATEWAY