Apparently there has been no plea bargain yet, so the trial involving the crash in Tucson is still set for February 7. Those of us listed as victims who have received notices from the prosecutor in the past will likely be subpoenaed, so it would be wise to put this on your calendars. I don’t know when those subpoenas are likely to be served.
If there is a plea bargain, the prosecutor is required to notify the victims. I will keep checking and posting updates, but if you are not notified of a plea bargain, you can probably expect a subpoena.
Also, officers found drug paraphernalia and narcotics in Brian Lynch’s jail cell, so he is now facing additional charges, which have been assigned to the same judge. I don’t know if that might affect the trial date.

I made an announcement at the holiday party that Pactimo was offering specials on some winter riding gear with the SOB logo. After looking carefully at the items offered, we have decided to forego another order. The truly “winter-weight” items, such as jackets, vests and bib tights, were unisex-sized. I don’t think that would work for our group! The women’s and men’s specific jackets and vests were rated at 40-70 degrees — hardly suitable for Santa Fe winter riding.

If there is sufficient interest in the spring for jerseys and shorts, we can certainly look into doing another order then.

As someone who rides through the winter months, I am always on the lookout for winter bicycling clothing to keep me warm.  I recently came across an interesting pair of pants that those who ride through the winter months might wish to consider.  You can find the find the pants at: 

https://www.amazon.com/4ucycling-athletic-active-thermal-Xl-gangsuo/dp/B00AQDTTC6/ref=sr_1_1?s=sporting-goods&ie=UTF8&qid=1478346996&sr=1-1&keywords=4ucycling+pants

These pants are a good quality (especially considering the price), inexpensive cold weather cycling option.  However, be mindful of the fact that these pants are Asian Sized.  Therefore, order at least 1 size up from your American size.  I am 5 ft 10 in with a 32/33 waist and a large size fits me perfectly.  It should also be noted that these pants are, in fact, multi-sport pants.  Therefore, they do not have any padding.  That being said, they could also be quite good for winter hiking and snowshoeing.

I, along with a number of SOBs (Judy, Lore, Sandra and Denise), had a wonderful biking/hiking Moab vacation last week enjoying Arches and Canyonlands National Parks.  Needless to say the scenery was simply awesome and the fact that you get so close to all of the attractions was an added plus.  The weather was most cooperative with sunny skies and afternoon highs in the 70’s.

Without a doubt the cycling highlight for me was riding the La Sal Mountain Loop.  A group of 10 cyclists from our party, including Denise, rode this 63 mile loop that included a grueling 17 mile, 5,500 foot climb up “The Big Nasty”.  The 21 mile descent, where I reached a maximum speed of 40 mph, was something that I will long remember.

Summiting “The Big Nasty”

Also, a cycling highlight of the trip was Judy attaining a post-crash personal distance milestone of 40 miles during our ride along the Colorado River.  Afterwards, the entire Santa Fe contingent celebrated with lunch and, of course, double shot lattes, excepting Judy, who felt that her accomplishment merited a triple shot!

In summary, a great time was had by all.

After Tuesday’s tough ride and hike-a-bike to Glorietta Baldy, we decided to ride on Thursday (10/06) at 9:30 AM from Thumb Trailhead at Galisteo Basin Preserve. Thumb trailhead is closer to Eliza’s Ridge than our usual starting location. Thumb Trailhead is posted and easy to find – a right turn after entering Galisteo Basin Preserve.

The dirty SOB’s are planning to move the regular Tuesday ride to Glorietta this week (October 4). 9:30 AM.

Driving directions courtesy of Diane Giles:
Take the Glorieta/Pecos exit. Left onto the overpass. Left to the Glorieta Center. Park at the gate and go into the building on the left just past the gate. There will be someone there that will have us sign a waiver and tell us where to park. They will also have trail maps there.

Our small-but-enthusiastic dirt group is planning to meet at 9:30 AM on this Thursday September 29 at La Cuchara Trailhead (off Camino de los Montoyas right after leaving NM 599).

After the successful White Ridge ride last week, the dirt ride will be back at the Cowboy Shack at 9:30 AM this Tuesday September 27.
If you have any interest in riding off-road, please e-mail me davidmainland@icloud.com, so I can put you on the e-mail list. The blog has an overnight delay, and sometimes there are last minute changes or even cancellations 😩 which you can only get by e-mail.

We will meet at the usual place, El Camino Academy, at 0930 (note, time is 0930).  We’ll do some sort of ad hoc ride as decided at the start time.

The Texans opted for a day off the bike rather than tootle around town with us.  Wise choice on their part.  If I were riding 1400 miles in 2 weeks, I’d take any chance I got to stay off the bike!

This Saturday, Sept 24, we will ride with a group of riders travelling from Austin to Denver. They are staying over in Santa Fe Friday and Saturday and they want to do a 30ish mile local ride (on their day off!). They heard great things about the SOBs from the Texas 4000 group. The 1400 mile group are riding to promote prostate cancer awareness. Their website is www.1400miles.com

We are going to meet the riders at Java Joes on Siler, just off Rufina.  They are staying at the Quality Inn on Cerrillos.  Time is 0930.  See ride listing.  Hope we can generate a nice turnout.

While most of you have been speeding down smooth roads at 10-25 mph dodging potholes and cars while fighting the wind, we off-roaders have been dodging rocks, gravel, loose dirt, tight turns, mud, horse manure, cactus, etc. at 5-6 mph. It doesn’t sound so great, but it sure is fun.

Tuesday Sept 13. Eight of us rode through Galisteo Basin Preserve – including Eliza’s Ridge, Sophie’s Spur, Nathan’s Trace, Mark’s Reach, Bob Was Here, and Kobe’s Cut-Off. (photo on Eliza’s Ridge courtesy of Diane, who is unfortunately not in the picture)

Thursday Sept 15 9AM. We plan to meet at the mailboxes on Camino La Tierra to ride through La Tierra, including the famous Flow Trail (which should be on everyone’s bucket list).

Tuesday Sept 20 8AM. Instead of Galisteo Basin we plan to meet at the Rail Runner parking lot on 599 to car pool to White Ridge Mountain Bike Trails off US 550 near San Ysidro.

There are a couple of September rides that may be of interest to the SOB community:

On September 18th:

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Another beautiful morning in the Galisteo Basin Preserve!
Diane, Tom, Mark R, JP, and I started off from Cowboy Shack after admiring Mark’s new bike and talking to some senior equestrians who also seem to be Tuesday regulars.
Unfortunately JP had to turn around early due to mechanical issues. The highlights were Bob Was Here, Kobe’s Cut-Off, and Shepherd’s Trail, which we did in both directions.
Next Tuesday’s ride from Cowboy Shack Trailhead will be at 9AM. Come join us.

If you have not picked up your SOB jersey that you ordered this summer please contact me. I will bring it to the ride on Thursday morning, for the photo shoot, but you might want to have it ahead of time. thunderpass@gmail.com.

Pam

Brian Lynch’s motion to reduce his bail was denied this morning, so his bail remains at $1.5 million.

Brian Lynch, the driver who ran through the SOB riders in Tucson, is currently in jail with bail set at $1.5 million. He has a new attorney who is making another attempt to modify his release conditions, which will be heard on August 25. His previous attempt was denied by the same judge, but I do not know if there is anything different about this motion. I will post the results as soon as I have them.

On Tuesday August 16, Diane, Alan Wardlow, JP, Rich Reynolds, Steve Griego, and I rode in Galisteo Preserve in beautiful weather with near-perfect trail conditions. Starting at 8:30 and ending around 11, we were rolling for an hour and a half with nice breaks for scenery and conversation, finishing the ride down the thrilling Kobe’s Cut-Off Trail. We did 8.73 miles at an average of 6 mph ascending and descending through varied terrain, which is pretty good, although it might not sound like much for you roadies.
We’ll be there again next Tuesday at 8:30 AM starting at Cowboy Shack Trailhead in Galisteo Basin Preserve.

The trial date for Brian Lynch, the driver of the truck who was responsible for the crash in Tucson, has been set for 8 days beginning February 7, 2017. Unless Mr. Lynch decides to plead guilty, it is likely that some of us would be subpoenaed as witnesses. So mark your calendars.

We ran into a lot of mud in GBP last Tuesday, which could be even worse this week, if it keeps raining. Let’s plan on trying Arroyo Hondo where the drainage should be better. There are two parking lots, but let’s meet at the Old Agua Fria Road parking lot, which is easier to start a ride from. Cross I-25 on Old Pecos Trail and go left on Old Agua Fria Road East (County Road 58D). The parking lot is on the right just before the end of the road but poorly marked. If you get to the end of the road, you are there, just look around for the parking lot.
Let’s do 830 AM as usual.

Alan, JP, and I are planning to ride up Pacheco Canyon Road on Saturday, August 6, weather permitting, starting at 9AM at the junction on NM 592, just before the descent into Chupadero.
It is about a 6 mile ride to the top of Pacheco Canyon Road at Hyde Park Road near Big Tesuque which is about 1300 feet of climbing. The road is rocky, but otherwise not technical.
A mountain bike is still highly recommended because of the rocks. I have done this with 1.5” wide cross tires, but I would not recommend it.
http://www.trails.com/tcatalog_trail.aspx?trailid=BGS056-035
The current weather forecast does not look that positive, so we are keeping an eye on it.

A small group of us are planning to meet at the Cowboy Shack Trailhead at 8AM on Saturday July 23 for a leaderless, zero pressure off-road ride.
Enter Galisteo Basin Preserve from US 285 then follow Astral Valley Road and Morning Star Ridge Road to the Cowboy Shack Trailhead parking lot.

Just a friendly reminder that Pactimo has re-opened the SOB store so you can still order jerseys, shorts, etc, through Friday, July 22. Use this link:

https://teamstore.pactimo.com/stores/santa_fe_seniors_on_bikes_sob/show

Clicking the link will take you to this page:

from which you can select your clothing, add to cart, check out, etc. SOB-specific clothing articles will be shipped to me approximately August 22, after which I will distribute to the person who ordered them.

Incidentally, I still have several items from the last order. If you have not yet picked up your SOB clothing, I will be at the ride start at least 1/2 hour early this Thursday (599 Railrunner station at 7:30 AM). If you are not at the ride, please contact me at 505-989-8574 to arrange a time to pick up your clothing.

Pam

I’m planning to ride from Rabbit Road Trailhead to Avenida Vista Grande or maybe further on Tuesday July 12 starting at 8AM.  I’m not really anxious to get up early, but an 8AM start should help with the heat.

I have the Pactimo SOB team clothing! I will be at ride starts if you want to pick it up then. If you miss the ride, please contact me at 505-989-8574 to arrange a time to pick it up at my house.

It appears we have enough interest to re-open the Pactimo store for a limited time, if you missed ordering the first time. The SOB team store will be open from this Friday, July 8, through Friday, July 22. It will take about a month after the store closes before the items arrive at my house. The link for ordering is:

https://teamstore.pactimo.com/stores/santa_fe_seniors_on_bikes_sob/show

On June 2, Brian Lynch’s motion to reduce his bail and change the conditions for his release was denied.  He remains in custody with bail set at $1.5 million.

Tuesday rides remain at 0930 for the month of May.

Brian Lynch, the driver responsible for the crash in Tucson, remains in custody, but his attorney has filed a motion for a change in his bail conditions, which will be heard on June 2.  I will post the results of this hearing, as soon as I get them.

The judge who was originally assigned to the case recused himself because he is a cyclist and had discussed the incident with friends. The currently assigned judge is Jane Eikleberry.

Just a reminder that the Pactimo SOB team store is now open and accepting orders for SOB jerseys, shorts, bibs, accessories, etc. Go to

https://teamstore.pactimo.com/stores/santa_fe_seniors_on_bikes_sob/show

The store will be open through Monday May 30. I have received a fit kit, so if you are not sure what size you wear in Pactimo clothing, there are several sizes in each style available for you to try on. I brought the fit kit to the ride start this morning, and several of you took advantage of that to try on and look at the jerseys. I will also bring the fit kit to Fort Marcy next Thursday at least 1/2 hour before the ride start. I realize it can be a little inconvenient (especially this morning with all the extra layers we were wearing!), and would probably be impossible to try on shorts or bibs in the parking lot (or I would hope so). If necessary, you may call me at home at 989-8574 and we can arrange a time for you to come by my house to try on items. It is important to order the right size, as custom clothing cannot be returned or exchanged.

Expected ship date for the custom items is the end of June. Pactimo is also offering discounts on generic items such as baselayers and thermal arm and leg warmers. Those items will ship sooner.

Pam

This from Andrea P.

At the “Celebration of the Life of Clare Rhoades” last weekend, we learned that her family has requested that anyone wishing to make a donation in memory of Clare consider supporting Upaya Zen Center or Empower Nepali Girls.  A number of us would like to make a donation to Empower Nepali Girls on behalf of the Santa Fe SOBs. If you would like to contribute, look for Andrea P at the sign-in table at our rides this Thursday and next. Any amount would be appreciated, and together we can make a difference in this wonderful foundation’s work. Please visit their website (empowernepaligirls.org) to learn more.

The Pactimo store is now open to order SOB jerseys (including a ladies’ sleeveless jersey), shorts, men’s bibs, arm and leg warmers. There is no minimum order since we have not changed the design whatsoever. Go to

https://teamstore.pactimo.com/stores/santa_fe_seniors_on_bikes_sob/show

The store will be open through Monday, May 30 and estimated delivery is June 28. There is no password required; just go to that link and order. You will be asked for your name and billing information. Orders will ship to me and I’ll deliver them to you at the Thursday rides, unless we make other arrangements. Pactimo also has some generic (non-logo) items on sale for us such as thermal leg warmers, baselayers and ultra-light rain jackets. Those items will ship more quickly.

Pactimo is sending me a sizing kit that includes the men’s and women’s shorts, jerseys, men’s bibs, etc. There is also a detailed fit guide on their website, but nothing beats having something to actually try on. We should have them in time for this Thursday’s ride. Since it’s difficult to try on things like shorts in the parking lot, I can make myself available the following week if you want to come to my house for a try-on session. I’ll let you know when once I have my work schedule for that week.

Pam

I ( mpwarchol@q.com ) will be doing the “Flowers in the Hills” ride with the Bicycle Adventure Club on April 2-10, 2017.  I would welcome either a roommate and/or a partner to carpool with to the ride location in Fredericksburg, Texas which is located between Austin and San Antonio in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.  A detailed description of the ride may be found at the Bicycle Adventure Club by following the link:  https://www.bicycleadventureclub.org/html/rides/?action=ride&rideid=1095.

A brief description of the ride follows:

OVERVIEW
“Flowers in the Hills” is a self-directed bicycle tour that features rides through acres and acres of wildflowers in the Texas hill country. You will see miles of riding on little traveled, very picturesque, pothole free, ranch and market roads.  Many are open range, which means that longhorns, sheep, chickens and goats may be up close and personal on the road. Fredericksburg is the cycle capital of Texas (see cycletexas.com) and Gillespie County has over 500 miles of paved country roads. Fredericksburg is a town of 10,000 resident which receives 3 million visitors annually, and boasts German heritage with Texas hospitality.  There are 100+ unique and kitschy restaurants–all within walking distance of our lodging…the Pie Shop is to die for.  Activities abound:  The Museum of the Wars of the Pacific requires two days to fully explore. The stores on Main Street offer many one-of-a-kind items. There are 20+ wineries and microbreweries within an easy drive. You are within a few pedal strokes of Luckenbach music, the historic Lyndon B Johnson ranch, the Willow City Loop (most famous bicycle road in Texas)  and the world famous Wildflower Seed Farm.  The Alamo Café boasts the 3rd best burger in Texas.  Hill country woolen arts and fabric arts stores are acclaimed the best in the USA.

RIDE RATING
You will have an inventory of 22 out-and-back and loop options ranging 17 to 57 miles with climbs ranging from 1000-3200 feet for your availability on any of our ride days.  There is something for every skill level.  Here are the number of rides in each category: 4 at 1A; 3 at 2A; 9 at 2B; 2 at 2C; 1 at 3B; 3 at 3C.  It is “hill country” after all.

 The Ride Ratings above are described below:

Ride Ratings

Climbing Level
Level 1 – Up to 1500 ft
Level 2 – 1500 to 2500 ft
Level 3 – 2500 to 3500 ft
Level 4 – More than 3500 ft
Distance Level
Level A – Up to 35 mi
Level B – 35 to 50 mi
Level C – 50 to 65 mi
Level D – More than 65 miles

Therefore, if this ride interests you and you are in need of either a roommate and/or a carpooling partner please let me know.

Charlie Loesch is looking for someone to help enter financial data in support of the Santa Fe Century.  Individual should be familiar with Quickbooks.  Charlie has been doing this function as well as heading the Santa Fe Century but this year he has a health issue that’s preventing him from doing this task.  Any volunteers?  You may contact me (505-231-9341) until 5/9/2016 (when we’ll be out of the country) or Charlie at 505-920-6383.

Turn up the speakers and enjoy the ride – courtesy of Jim Kinney.

Jim and Jennifer will be heading out at 10am for a 50-60 mile ride from our place at 27 Two Trails. Plenty of parking.

On today’s ride from Madrid to Heartbreak hill, my husband Rob Richards lost his jacket, which someone reported seeing in the parking lot at the store in Golden. The proprietor of the store said she gave it to one of our group. It’s a Novara lightweight windbreaker, light green in color, size XL (I think). If you are the one who picked it up, would you please call Rob at 988-2386. Thanks.

I have created a new view of the ride calendar, that shows just the 2016 Thursday rides.  Instructions on how to view either the full calendar or the Thursday calendar are here.