Mountain Bike Heaven

NOD FEST 2010!

2010-09-01T13:44:00.010-07:00

JOIN US in November for
Mountain Bike Heaven's
21st Annual
World Famous International
NOD FEST
Sedona, Arizona, USA

Contact Mountain Bike Heaven for information:
Telephone: (928) 282-1312

Click here for Club Ride Info: www.mountainbikeheaven.com/clubr.html

Website: www.mountainbikeheaven.com

Great Discounts on Sedona Vacations!

2010-03-15T11:11:00.000-07:00

Book Your Discount Sedona Vacation Travel & Lodging Here!

Get great discounts on Sedona Vacations:

Unbeatable rates for weekly vacation condos.

Seven nights in Sedona starts at $575, sleeps four...
many to choose from.

Click here for more information: http://www.mountainbikeheaven.com/book_travel.htm

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-25T10:28:00.001-07:00

Done delivering presents, Santa takes a relaxing spin just off-shore from his Jamaican hideaway..

2009-12-22T14:20:00.000-07:00

What's up y'all?

Rob Narly here, checking in after a long hiatus from blogging. Thought I'd make sure everyone knows that in the interest of keeping our more "extreme" customers functional and out of the E.R., we are now carrying Kali protective gear and Leatt neck braces, as well as 661, Fox, Rockgardn, and RaceFace as always..

We are really excited about the Leatt and Kali stuff, so I thought I should share some info w/y'all and get everyone up to speed on this cutting-edge equipment

The Leatt brace is a "helmet for your neck", an injection produced glass reinforced nylon neck brace system, designed by medical professionals and motorcycle enthusiasts to help prevent the following "extreme movements": head, foward -HyperFlexion
head, rearward -HyperExtension
head, sideways -Lateral HyperFlexion
spinal column compression -Axial loading, due to the effect of force on the helmet
head/helmet, rearward on the neck - Posterior HyperTranslation

There is currently no other neck protection system available for motorcyclists that can effectively help prevent all of the above potential injuries. The design rationale behind the Leatt-Brace is to bring the head to a controlled stop. This is achieved by providing a padded rigid structure that acts as an alternate load path for neck forces. Helmet impacts otherwise transmitted from the helmet to skull and then to the neck are re-directed from the helmet to the brace to other body structures in a safe way.
The design of the Leatt-Brace prevents the helmet/head from projecting over the brace and therefore prevents a fulcrum action, which has been documented in literature pertaining to the use of collar devices. The Leatt-Brace GPX Club works with most types of body armor and chest protectors. It is also suitable for use by Superbike riders. Over long distances, the Leatt-Brace will also offer some relief from neck fatigue. Only leathers with a hump require minor modification.The X-Strap (for upright riding position) and GP-Strap (for Superbike leathers with a hump), included with the MOTO GPX, are designed for the extreme rider who may experience 'float' at high speed (Superbike) or in a big air and flat-out whoop situations (motocross).

We will be taking orders for Leatt braces just before christmas, most models and graphics kits are available for immediate delivery, and they are in So.Cal, so stuff gets here usually in just a couple of days!

Now as for Kali protectives...

These guys are so on point it's almost unreal. Just a couple of years old and the company is setting new standards in safety and weight for protective gear. Mike Metzger runs their gear, so you know he's tested the stuff.. you really should check out their site and look around... the guys running this company know what they are doing and are passionate about it. It shows in the quality of their products.

We have a bunch of their stuff in stock right now, and we have more on the way.. can't think of a better way to spend your christmas cash than making sure you can keep riding!

So Happy Holidays from everyone here @ the heaven//

B. Narly

Happy Holidays from MBH!

2009-12-01T17:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Holidays from Mountain Bike Heaven!

Come on in and check out our HOLIDAY SALES...
1695 West Hwy 89A, Sedona, Arizona
Phone: (928) 282-1312
Website: http://www.mountainbikeheaven.com

Internet Special: Print out the Shop Cat Bucks below,
bring in to Mountain Bike Heaven and get
$5 off any Mountain Bike Rental

To Redeem, simply Print this Coupon on your Printer and present to MBH when you Rent any MTB (one coupon per person per bike)

Happy Riding!!!

NODFEST 2009: Come Ride With Us In November!

2009-10-30T07:07:00.000-07:00

NOD FEST 2009

Mountain Bike Heaven's
World Famous International
Gnarly Old Dude
(& Dudette) Festival
November 25 - 29, 2009
Sedona, Arizona, USA

It's that time of year to once again give thanks and pay homage to the Great Mountain Biking God - Bikapelli - for another year of great Mountain Bike Riding!

This year is extra special because Mountain Bike Heaven is in its 20th year of serving Mountain Bikers from all over the world who come to Sedona for the "Great Mountain Bike Ride."

In Sedona, it is a tradition to honor and give respect to the Elders. So every year, Mountain Bike Heaven celebrates their Elders: the NODs, or Gnarly Old Dudes (and Dudettes), as they like to be called.

NODs are mountain bikers who are 50 and older who are still out there being Gnarly. According to RAMA JON, founder of Mountain Bike Heaven (and the youngest Sedona NOD), being a NOD is not so much about age, but more of a state of mind. The NOD FESTIVAL is about celebrating those who have come before us and inspired us, as well as expressing the wild, ageless Spirit that lives inside us all.

The 2009 NOD FEST starts Wednesday 11/25 and continues thru Sunday 11/29... five days of raw, honest Red Rock mountain biking!

There will be rides every day. All Dudes and Dudettes are welcome. Call Mountain Bike Heaven for ride times. Bring your bike and all your gear and meet at Mountain Bike Heaven: 1695 West Hwy 89A, Sedona, Arizona, USA.

Click here for Club Ride Info: www.mountainbikeheaven.com/clubr.html

Contact Mountain Bike Heaven for information:
Telephone: (928) 282-1312

Website: www.mountainbikeheaven.com

1989 to 2009 - Happy 20th Anniversary Mountain Bike Heaven!

2009-04-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

1989-2009
Happy 20th Anniversary
Mountain Bike Heaven

We'll be celebrating all year with our great prices, great bikes, great customer service, and great adventure rides!

Come in and check us out at 1695 West Hwy 89A in Sedona, Arizona,
or give us a call at (928) 282-1312.

Get Ready For:

NOD FEST 2009

Mountain Bike Heaven's
World Famous International
Gnarly Old Dude (& Dudette) Festival
Coming in November
Sedona, Arizona, USA

Call us for more details: (928) 282-1312

Iron Horse Bikes - 2009 Catalog

2009-01-11T17:23:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven sells and rents a variety of Iron Horse Bikes.
Click here to learn more.

Click here for your free
Iron Horse Bikes 2009 Catalog
(PDF download)

Don't have Adobe PDF Reader?
Click here to download free version.

NEW PUMPTRACK OPEN!!

2008-12-04T11:42:00.000-07:00

oh yeah....

with help from simon bosman from green magic landscaping and his magical 'dozer, lots of shoveling and grooming, the pimptrack is now open for riding! bring a helmet and take a shot at robnarly's unofficial record of 22 laps w/o pedaling.
sessions @ 10am 0n wed, sat, & sun and 4pm on fri, sat, & sun.
robnarly will be there to give tips and advice.
come join us!

HappyHalloween?!?!?

2008-11-02T17:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween All!

Does anyone read these? Let me know-
I always thought it was strange to celebrate a day of the dead by dressing up in funny costumes and roaming around the neighborhood collecting candy.... but it was tons of fun as a kid, and almost more fun as an adult to see the crazy things people do when you give them a whole day when its OK to act a little strange..on my trip to the mailbox that morning i was surprised to see the Grim Reaper himself!
I pulled out my camera and shot some quick pictures-

Apparently on his way back from a stop at the liquor store or AM/PM on his mountain bike he narrowly missed me (he has done this multiple times).

Bike karma hit him hard as he picked up about 75 goathead thorns and got himself a flat tire. Of course the grim reaper has no slime in his tubes because "..he's not from around here.." and he's asking "Put what in where?" so after selling him on slime tubes(he digs the green color, reminds him of the ectoplasmic goo from ghostbusters) he was on his way.

Before he left he said that he was thinking about doing a pink jeep tour or balloon ride and sticking around for the NOD fest, mostly because of the mountain biking, and he loved his room at Los Abrigados "..their gym is great,and they have the best hot tubs..". his favorite ride so far is deadman's pass, but he also likes hanging out near the Devils kitchen.
That was just in the first few minutes I was at work that morning and over the day things degraded steadily. by lunch I had been accosted by an octopus and chased by a cardboard box with legs full of body parts and more- but I did get a good shot in on a telletubbie thing. kicked it right in the * if it has *. it ran away, but I'd swear it was laughing as it ran.. by the end of the day I was in full costume as a Celibate Drunken Monk. To drunk to take pictures, the rest of the eve. was a blur, but my headache the next morning told the tale of too much fun being had. what did you expect?; my first customer on halloween was the grim reaper!

gnarly crew @ rampage

2008-10-25T09:44:00.000-07:00

the MTBH gnarly crew hit the road at 7pm on thursday oct 3 to see the greatest spectacle of freeride mountainbiking ever- the red bull rampage. arriving at the old venue from 04 at about 2:00am, we set up our tents, climbed into out sleeping bags and slept with dreams of freeride magic to come. not long after the first stirrings of the morning in the campground did the coffee start flowing, and with the coffee came the talk of the day- riding the old course. after a lengthy safety meeting and gear check we were on the mountain, hiking our big bikes up to the ridgelines. if you have never seen this type of terrain check out redbullrampage.com.
the videos, never do it justice- this place is steep and there are huge jumps and drops everywhere.
so there we were- standing on sacred ground- ready to throw down... to be cont.
here's some photos to get ya to come back and read the rest of the story.

Great Discounts on Sedona Vacations

2008-10-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

Book Your Discount Sedona Vacation Travel & Lodging Here!

Get great discounts on Sedona Vacations:

Unbeatable rates for weekly vacation condos.

Seven nights in Sedona starts at $575, sleeps four...
many to choose from.

Click here for more information: http://www.mountainbikeheaven.com/book_travel.htm

NOD FEST 2008 in November...

2008-09-22T16:20:00.000-07:00

NOD FEST 2008

Mountain Bike Heaven's
World Famous International
Gnarly Old Dude Festival
November 5 - 9, 2008
Sedona, Arizona, USA

In Sedona, it is a tradition to honor and give respect to the Elders. So every year, Mountain Bike Heaven celebrates their Elders: the NODs, or Gnarly Old Dudes, as they like to be called.

NODs are mountain bikers (men and women) who are 50 and older who are still out there being Gnarly. According to RAMA JON, founder of Mountain Bike Heaven (and the youngest Sedona NOD), being a NOD is not so much about age, but more of a state of mind. The NOD FESTIVAL is about celebrating those who have come before us and inspired us, as well as expressing the wild, ageless Spirit that lives inside us all.

The 2008 NOD FEST starts Wednesday 11/5 and continues thru Sunday 11/9... five days of raw, honest Red Rock mountain biking! Rides will be attended this year by MBH's own "The Original NOD."

There will be rides every day. All Dudes and Dudettes are welcome. Call Mountain Bike Heaven for ride times. Bring your bike and gear and meet at Mountain Bike Heaven: 1695 West Hwy 89A, Sedona, Arizona, USA.

Click here for Club Ride Info: http://www.mountainbikeheaven.com/clubr.html

Contact Mountain Bike Heaven for information:
Telephone: (928) 282-1312
Website: http://www.mountainbikeheaven.com/

GET READY TO HAVE LOTS OF FUN... NOD STYLE!!!

learning to fly....

2008-09-09T16:59:00.000-07:00

NOD FEST 2008!

2008-08-08T16:20:00.000-07:00

It's almost time for NOD FEST 2008!

Get your bikes, gear and the family... and join us in November for our annual international NOD FESTIVAL in Sedona, Arizona.

Stay tuned for more info...

Celebrate Father's Day June 15th!

2008-05-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

Father's Day Celebration Ride at Mountain Bike Heaven Sunday June 15:

If you love to mountain bike, join us on Sunday, June 15, 2008. Please click here for more information on our Club Rides, or call us at (928) 282-1312 for more information and ride times.

Mountain Bike Heaven offers many gifts for Dad at our Store located at 1695 West Hwy 89A in Sedona, Arizona. Come on in and check us out!

The History of Father's Day:

While many people believe that Father's Day is a holiday invented by the fine folks at Hallmark, it is not so. The celebration of Dad's special day can most likely be credited to Mrs. John B. Dodd, of Washington State, who first suggested the idea of the holiday in 1909.

Mrs. Dodd's father, civil war veteran William Smart, was widowed when his wife died during childbirth with their sixth child. Despite the obvious hardships, Mr. Smart proceeded to raise the newborn along with his five other children, by himself.

It wasn't until Sonora Dodd became an adult that she realized the strength and selflessness her father had shown in raising his children as a single parent. The original date chosen for the holiday was June 5th, Mr. Smart's birthday, however the celebration was postponed until June 19, the third Sunday in June, because there was not enough time to prepare.

At about the same time in various towns and cities across America other people were beginning to celebrate a Father's Day. Some accounts credit Mrs. Charles Clayton of West Virginia, as the founder of Father's Day, although most histories give credit to Mrs. Dodd.

In early times, wearing flowers was a traditional way of celebrating Father's Day. Mrs. Dodd favored the red rose to honor a father still living, while a white flower honored a deceased dad. J.H. Berringer, who also held Father's Day celebrations in Washington State as early as 1912, chose a white lilac as the Father's Day Flower.

In 1924 President Calvin Coolidge supported the idea of a national Father's Day, but it never became official until 1966 when President Lyndon Johnson signed the presidential proclamation that set aside the 3rd Sunday of June as Father's Day. (Source: The Internet)

Post-Ride Recovery Tools

2008-04-12T14:40:00.000-07:00

Here are a few post-ride recovery tips:

Drink a lots and lots of water before, during and after a ride! Even when you think you've drunk enough water, drink more!
Eat a good quality protein bar (23 grams of protein or more) for quick and sustaining energy either before, during or after a ride.
The day before a ride: get plenty of rest and eat a lot of good quality carbs and proteins.
After a ride: drink plenty of water, eat a large proteinacious meal, and stretch those muscles!

Mountain Bike Heaven now offers Vemma Antioxidant Products:

Check out Vemma at: http://www.vemma.com/products.html

And Dr. William Brown (also known as "Doc," one of MBH's Gnarly Old Dudes) says the best recovery therapy for any physical stress is to get a Lymphatic Massage.

To learn more about how Lymphatic Massage can help you, go to Doc's website at: http://www.thetouchthatheals.com/

From the Archives: Mountain Bike Heaven's Southwest Adventure Travel Show

2008-04-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven's

"Along the Bikapelli Trail"
Southwest Adventure Travel Show
starring Rama & The Sedona Gnarly Crew

RED CANYON
Panguitch, Southern Utah

Click to Watch (Hi Resolution Only):
Part 1 (2:23)
Part 2 (6:48)
Part 3 (1:10)
Part 4 (5:50)
Part 5 (3:06)
Part 6 (0:31)

Click here to read article: Red Canyon - The Trails

ZION
Panguitch, Southern Utah

Click to Watch (Hi Resolution Only):
Part 1 (1:15)
Part 2 (3:00)
Part 3 (7:12)
Part 4 (7:58)
Part 5 (1:37)

Click here to read article: Along the Bikapelli Trail

Video playback requires RealPlayer:
Click here to download Free RealPlayer

Shop Cat Bucks for Christmas

2007-12-05T17:20:00.000-07:00

Internet Special:

Print this coupon and bring in to MBH and you will receive $5 off any MTB Dual Suspension Rental. More info here.

Mountain Bike Heaven also offers Gift Certificates and other stocking stuffers. Click here for more info.

NOD Fest 2007 - Great Riding!

2007-11-21T17:20:00.000-07:00

Thanks to all the great riders who showed up for the week long NOD Fest rides. There were riders from as far away as Germany and Holland, as well as riders from Canada and the States. Quite a few of our own Sedona Gnarly Crew members came out to play. There were not many riders from Phoenix, but there was a great showing of NODs from Tucson including Stan who won the oldest NOD title at 72 years old! Way to go Stan!

We've decided to annex Tucson as part of Canada so that next year the reluctant NOD will ride with the other NODs!'

A special thanks goes out to Rim Rock Water for donating cases of their special Hi-Energy, Structure-Enhanced 100% Natural Artesian Spring Water, known as AquaX, for the all the riders. We did not go thirsty! (Click here to learn more)

And then there was Kenny, a Sedona local, who took the opportunity during NOD Fest to actually learn how to ride a mountain bike. He was so good right from the start that he got mistaken for a real NOD…. He did have several “initiations” however out on the trail with the local vegetables. But all in all, not bad for a first timer. Way to go Kenny!

Mountain Bike Heaven extends a huge thank you to all the NODs and soon to be NODs who helped create the NOD Fest, which we’ve been threatening to do for over ten years. It has finally come to fruition!

Great riding and lots of fun! See you all out there on trail heaven!

NOD Fest 2007 Update

2007-11-14T17:20:00.000-07:00

NOD FEST 2007 Update:

We had a great kick-off on Sunday 11/11 with an excellent turnout! The really Gnarly NOD Crew rode at 9am and was out for 4-5 hours. By the time they got back, the afternoon NOD Crew was just getting started. Their ride was laid-back and ended with a spectacular evening sunset up at Chimney Rock! Even Shop Cat got into the action, performing last-minute bike inspections before the riders left the building.

We ended the evening with a dinner BBQ. Great turn out and great riding!

Here is the RIDE schedule for the week (Sunday 11/11 thru Sunday 11/18):

Two rides daily:
Early-Bird Gnarlies RIDE at 9am
Afternoon Laid-Back Gnarlies RIDE at 2pm

If you want to ride, bring all your gear and meet at Mountain Bike Heaven located at 1695 W. Hwy 89A in Sedona, Arizona.

Call ahead to MBH (928) 282-1312 if you are going to ride.

A schedule of activities is posted on the Bulletin Board outside the back door of the shop.

There will be another BBQ on Sunday 11/18 after the rides.

Hope to see all of you out there riding!!!

Happy Anniversary Mountain Bike Heaven!

2007-11-11T05:20:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary Mountain Bike Heaven!

Sunday, 11/11/07 is not only the kick-off for MBH’s annual week-long NODFEST, but 11/11/07 also marks the 18th year that Mountain Bike Heaven has been in business in Sedona. Congratulations to Rama Jon and the entire Mountain Bike Heaven team for a job well done!

Rama Jon and Mountain Bike Heaven
Year One (November, 1989)

Mountain Bike Heaven extends a big thank you to all of the many patrons that have come to Sedona from around the globe. And of course HUGE THANKS goes out to all of MBH’s Gnarly Mountain Biking Crew Members!
Thanks for ALL the great RIDES!

Remember, always be excellent to each other and…
keep on Riding!

Two great MTB Chat Forums

2007-11-07T12:11:00.000-07:00

Check out these two Mountain Bike Chat Forums. Everything to do with Mountain Biking and so much more...

Check out MTBR.com here: http://forums.mtbr.com/

Check out DRUNKCYLIST.com here: http://www.drunkcyclist.com/

pumps&jumpsv1

2007-11-04T11:06:00.000-07:00

bnarlzbackflip

2007-10-21T16:41:00.000-07:00

backflippin into jj's foam pit. 10/19/07

Come Ride With Us on 11/11 thru 11/18!

2007-10-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

NOD FEST 2007
Mountain Bike Heaven’s
World Famous International

NOD (GNARLY OLD DUDE/ETTE) FESTIVAL

11/11 thru 11/18, 2007 (Sunday to Sunday)

Sedona, Arizona, USA

In Sedona, it is a tradition to honor and give respect to the Elders. So every year, Mountain Bike Heaven celebrates their Elders: the NODs, or Gnarly Old Dudes, as they like to be called.

And what on earth is a GNARLY OLD DUDE you anxiously ask?

NODs are any mountain bikers who are 50 or near 50 and who are still out there being Gnarly. According to RAMA JON, founder of Mountain Bike Heaven (and the youngest NOD), being a NOD is not so much about age, but more about a State of Mind. The NOD FEST is about celebrating those who inspire us, and about expressing the wild, ageless Spirit that lives in us all.

Although Rama says its not about age, he is currently the youngest NOD among the crew. He puts a challenge out there to all mountain bikers around the globe to come ride Sedona and see what it’s all about! All those who believe themselves to be worthy of riding in Sedona's Red Rock Country with Sedona's Gnarly Crew are invited to come ride, and have their lives changed forever!

(And yes, there are also Gnarly Old Dudettes!)

When does this FEST take place?

The 2007 NOD FEST starts Sunday 11/11 and continues thru Sunday 11/18... seven days and seven nights of raw, honest Red Rock Country mountain biking!

PRIZES will be given to the OLDEST and YOUNGEST NODs.

There will be two rides each day, one in the morning for the early birders (8 or 9am-ish) and one in the afternoon for the mored layed back folks (time to be determined).

Please call ahead to let us know you will be riding. Note: there may not be a ride that day/time if no one shows up.

Wanna Ride? Bring all your gear and meet at Mountain Bike Heaven: 1695 West Hwy 89A, Sedona, Arizona.

Click here for MBH Club Ride Info: http://www.mountainbikeheaven.com/clubr.html

Contact Mountain Bike Heaven for further details:
Telephone: (928) 282-1312
Website: http://www.mountainbikeheaven.com/

SEE YA THERE!!!

Get Your Iron Horse Bikes 2008 Catalog

2007-10-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven sells and rents an assortment of Iron Horse Bikes:

Click here to get your FREE 2008 Iron Horse Bikes Catalog (PDF)

Click here to download Free Adobe PDF Reader

Click here to go to Mountain Bike Heaven Bikes

IS YOUR BIKE PROPERLY TUNED?

2007-09-14T14:13:00.000-07:00

The mountain bikes of today are not like they used to be. Today's rugged, all terrain mountain bikes are sophisticated pieces of machinery, and when not tuned properly, you are riding way below your maximum potential. With full front and rear suspensions, dampening springs, air shocks, hydraulic disc brakes, and more, these bikes demand precise adjustments according to each rider's height and weight, as well as to the type of terrain you are going to ride.

At Mountain Bike Heaven's full service world class MTB Pro Repair Shop, our Shop Cats know what it takes to fine tune these most incredible instruments. Services offered include: front and rear suspension tuning, tune ups and safety checks, complete overhauls, hydraulic brake service, wheel work, complete assembly, modifications and more, including packaging and shipping! "We do it all!" says mountain bike Guru, Rama Jon, founder of Mountain Bike Heaven.

For more information, please visit our website at: http://www.MountainBikeHeaven.com/service.htm or contact us in Sedona, Arizona, at (928) 282-1312.

Sedona Trails, Guides and Maps

2007-08-22T16:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven offers Sedona Trail Guides and Maps:

1) THE ORIGINAL SEDONA Mountain Bike Trail Map and Field Guide by Sharon Lynne with Rama Jon

2) FAT TIRE TALES AND TRAILS Arizona Mountain Bike Trail Guide by Cosmic Ray. Best of the Best Arizona Trails; Down to Earth Maps; Summer and Winter Fun; Gnarly Glossary of Bike Lingo; Steaming Heaps of Trail Nuggets. Absolutely the best!! Great maps and descriptions.

3) MOUNTAIN BIKE HEAVEN SEDONA BY TRAIL This is the Map every trail user can use... It's a guide to just about every non-wilderness trail in the area. It's a Mountain Bike Map by design but it's so full of trail info, hikers demand it too.

4) EXPERIENCE SEDONA Recreations and Activity Map Sedona Guide to trails, lodging, resturants, shopping and more. Good Town Stuff.

Here are several Sedona Mountain Biking Trails:

1) Upper and Lower Red Rock Loop Trails

2) Little Elf Trail

3) Dry Creek Trail

4) Secret Trails

Contact Mountain Bike Heaven for more information: (928) 282-1312 or visit http://www.MountainBikeHeaven.com/cosray.html

Check out the NEW MBH Custom Jersey Prototypes!

2007-08-21T16:20:00.000-07:00

CHECK OUT Mountain Bike Heaven's New Custom Jersey Prototypes!

The NOD has outdone himself yet again!!

Style A:

Style B:
Style C:

Vote For Your Favorite (A, B or C):
Call Mountain Bike Heaven at (928) 282-1312

Or go to http://www.MountainBikeHeaven.com/jersey.html

Mountain Bike Heaven's World Class Pro Repair Shop

2007-07-20T16:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven's Full Service World Class MTB Pro Repair Shop

Mountain Bike Heaven's Experienced SHOP CATS provide top notch service, including: Complete Packing and Shipping, Front and Rear Suspension Tuning, Full Tune and Safety Check, Complete Overhaul (clean & tune incl.), Hydraulic Brake Service, Wheel Work, Complete Assembly, Custom Modifications and Much More!

"We Do It All!"
Call Today For More Information: MBH Sedona: (928) 282-1312

Visit our website for more information: http://www.MountainBikeHeaven.com/service.htm

2007 NOD FEST

2007-06-21T23:29:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven is having it's world famous international NOD (GNARLY OLD DUDE) FESTIVAL in Sedona, Arizona, USA, November 11-18, 2007.

In Sedona, it is a tradition to honor and give respect to the Elders. So every year, Mountain Bike Heaven celebrates their Elders: the NODs, or Gnarly Old Dudes, as they like to be called.

And what on earth is a GNARLY OLD DUDE you anxiously ask?

According to RAMA JON, founder of Mountain Bike Heaven (and the youngest NOD), being a NOD is not so much about age, but more about a State of Mind. The NOD FEST is about celebrating those who inspire us, and about expressing the wild, ageless Spirit that lives in us all.
Although Rama says its not about age, he is currently the youngest NOD among the crew. He puts a challenge out there to all mountain bikers around the globe to come ride Sedona and see what its all about!

NODs are any mountain bikers who are 50 or near 50 and who are still out there being Gnarly. All those who believe themselves to be worthy of riding in Sedona's Red Rock Country with Sedona's Gnarly Crew are invited to come ride, and have their lives changed forever!

(And yes, there are also Gnarly Old Dudettes!)

When does this FEST take place?

The 2007 NOD FEST will be held NOVEMBER 11 - 18, Sunday thru Sunday... seven days and seven nights of raw, honest Red Rock Country mountain biking!

PRIZES will be given to the OLDEST and YOUNGEST NODs.

Wanna Ride? Just show up at Mountain Bike Heaven: 1695 West Hwy 89A, Sedona, Arizona.

Contact Mountain Bike Heaven for further details. Phone: (928) 282-1312. Visit our website at: http://www.MountainBikeHeaven.com

World Famous MBH Club Rides

2007-06-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

Club Rides have been a tradition at Mountain Bike Heaven for more then 18 years and are World Famous!

Every week, sometimes 2 or 3 times a week, Mountain Bike Riders get together from all over to have a wild and crazy adventure out on the trail.

The Club Rides are held on Wednesday and Sunday Mornings with everyone meeting at the MBH Store located at 1695 West Hwy 89A in Sedona, Arizona. Ride times are always posted at the Store and vary depending on the season.

These rides are free, and all are welcome. Some rides are more technical than others. MBH also offers MTB Skills Classes. Call MBH at (928) 282-1312 for Current information.

A visit to Sedona is not complete without an Adventure with the gnarly crew.
Come On Along...

For more information visit the MBH Website at: http://www.mountainbikeheaven.com/clubr.html

Get Your Mountain Bike Heaven Gear Here!

2007-06-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven has Tee Shirts, Custom Jerseys, Trail Maps, Shop Cat Socks and Coffee Mugs, MTB Videos, Iron Horse and Devinci Bikes, Accessories, Shoes, Tools, Parts, Supplies and so much more.

Stop by our Store located at 1695 West Hwy 89A in Sedona, Arizona, for all your Mountain Biking needs, or call us at (928) 282-1312.

Visit our Website at: http://www.mountainbikeheaven.com/sales.htm

MTB Rentals: Dual Suspension Headquarters

2007-05-15T15:00:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven now offers
Iron Horse dw-link and Rocky Mountain MTB Dual Suspension Demo Rentals!

IronHorse Demo Rentals include: 6Point4, MKIII Sport, Yakuza Aniki, and Warrior 4.0. Also available are Rocky Mountain Slayer 30's.

These Rentals are fully equipped for Sedona riding! You also get slimed tubes, Helmet, Pump and a Trail Map.

Some things to bring when you come to Sedona: Gloves, Glasses, Camelpack, Extra Tools, etc. and for the Clippless folks...don't forget your shoes and pedals!

Definitely do not forget your Camelpack! Sedona is the high desert after all. Hot and Dry is the standard fare. Hydration is the key to a long and enjoyable ride.

Contact Mountain Bike Heaven at (928) 282-1312 or visit www.MountainBikeHeaven.com/rental.html (print the coupon on the Rental Page and bring in to MBH to get a discount on any MTB Rental!)

Sedona MTB Homegrown Videos

2007-05-13T10:00:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven Video:
Sedona Gnarly Crew Vol. 1

This hour long video has it all. Extreme Action, Incredible Sedona Scenery and Sedona MTB Information.

You'll meet the Sedona Gnarly Crew: Simon who loves steep, rocky, insane lines, Dangerous Dave who knows no fear and rides anything and everything, Crazy Steve who says "technically, everything's rideable." There's Amp, Hard Time, Terrapin Hound, Trouble, Bogus Dude, Bullish Dude, Caffinated, DR, The Matster, Frankasaurous, Johnny, the NOD, and of course Rama, the founder of Mountain Bike Heaven.

So if you're planning a trip to Sedona or just crave juicy MTB Action in the Red Rocks of Sedona, this video is for you...

Order Info: Contact Mountain Bike Heaven at (928) 282-1312, or go to www.MountainBikeHeaven.com/video.html.

Bikapelli Sedona MTB Adventures

2007-05-10T13:00:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven has the inside track to Sedona, Arizona Red Rock Mountain Bike Riding.

BIKAPELLI ADVENTURES

Come ride Sedona, Arizona. The endless miles of tight, twisty, cactus-ridden Red Rock single tracks in unbelievable natural beauty are GUARANTEED to thrill all levels of riders.

The high Arizona desert environment, technical terrain, and maze of trails can be hard on riders and equipment if unprepared. A Sedona Bikapelli Mountain Bike Adventure will give you the support and info you need to make your Sedona Mountain Bike Experience an inspiration.

Mountain Bike Heaven offers many Guided Adventures to choose from. Visit www.MountainBikeHeaven.com/sedona_mtb.html for more details, or call MBH at (928) 282-1312.

MBH stocks Iron Horse Bikes - Get your 2007 Catalog

2007-05-06T16:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven sells and rents an assortment of Iron Horse Bikes:

Click here to get your FREE 2007 Iron Horse Bikes Catalog (PDF)

Click here to download Free Adobe PDF Reader

Click here to go to Mountain Bike Heaven Bikes

#1 Source for Sedona Arizona Mountain Biking!

2007-05-05T13:00:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven
is the #1 Source for
Mountain Biking Action
in Sedona, Arizona!

Mountain Bike Heaven offers Southwest United States Trail and Travel info, Bikapelli Mountain Bike Adventure Rides, Dual Suspension Rentals, Full Service Sales and Pro Repair Shop, Bikes, Accessories, Clothing, Shoes, and is the home of Shop Cat and NOD.

The store is located at 1695 West Hwy 89A in Sedona, Arizona 86336. Phone: (928) 282-1312. Website: http://www.mountainbikeheaven.com/.

Mountain Bike News with Rama Jon - Josh 2

2007-04-19T16:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike News
with Rama Jon 12/99

JOSH - PART TWO

Miracles happen and even in Sedona where we expect miracles to happen, when they do happen it is way special. Combined with the Holiday spirit, this miracle is what stories are made of. Last week Josh Smith returned home after nearly four months in the hospital recovering from a serious mountain bike neck injury. Josh was determined to walk out of neuro rehab, and as we watched his progress, no one but Josh himself and perhaps his mom and dad believed he would accomplish this goal.

Well, surpise, surprise, Josh has accomplished his goal. Several days after returning home, Josh walked into the bike shop on his own power. Sure, he’s walking a little slow compared to his old self, but he is walking, and that feat alone will make this Holiday season one that will always be remembered as special.

Josh’s road to recovery has not been a bowl of cherries. His ups and downs have made all of us wonder whether he would walk again. Perseverance, a little luck and a lot of prayer by Josh, his family and his friends have brought Josh back to us. Presently, his playful nature has been replaced by a philosophical seriousness that will be called upon in the next steps of his healing.

For all the trials and tribulations, Josh’s spirit is way strong and it is clear that being home will excelerate his recovery. Of course, the first thing we did for Josh when he got home was to set up a bicycle on a wind trainer so that he could have an adjunct to his physical therapy routine. It did my heart good to know that Josh is back on a bike again. At this point, getting some meat back on Josh’s bones is of top priority. After nearly four months on IV and then on cafeteria style hospital food, Josh’s taste buds are ready for a workout again.

As we reflect back on the year and the last decade of the millenium, Josh’s accident certainly is an event that has changed us all. A once carefree attitude has been replaced by a masked cautiousness. With any luck, the next millenium will be an injury free one.

Mountain Bike News with Rama Jon - Josh 1

2007-04-18T16:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike News
with Rama Jon 9/99

JOSH - PART ONE

Mountain biking is a dangerous game and accidents do happen. Sometimes these accidents can be quite tragic. Several weeks ago, four Sedona mountain bikers headed to Page for a road trip. As the first ride began, Joshua Smith, an expert mountain biker, was dealt a hand of fate that has landed him in critical care. Through a miscalculation, Josh took a header into slick rock and was knocked unconscious. Fortunately, his friends were near and his breathing was restored almost instantly. Through the use of technology, in this case a cellular phone and a GPS unit, we were able to contact Page Search and Rescue, and Josh was airlifted out within 30 minutes of the accident from the middle of nowhere.

Josh’s blow to the head caused a great deal of trauma in his neck and currently Josh has been in a struggle for recovery. His friends and family have shown tremendous support, and this combined with Josh’s spirit and drive is helping him make huge strides. It’s shocking to see your friend in the hospital, much more so in critical care. It makes the simple things in life so much more important, like breathing on your own. A lesser man might give up, but Josh is not like that. The changes his friends have seen from the first night to the present are so remarkable, that there is little doubt in anyone’s mind that Josh will be back riding his mountain bike before too long.

Josh’s road to recovery has already taken him through some of the biggest battles of his life. He has come through in shining colors and seems to make progress on a daily basis. As Josh recovers, the rest of us mountain bikers have to deal with continuing our sport knowing how easy it is to get hurt. There probably aren’t too many mountain bikers out there who don’t have some injury story or lingering pain. These injuries all seem so insignificant compared to critical care, but just like all of us, I’m sure Josh can’t wait to get back on his mountain bike. Josh, we’re waiting for you, and it just won’t be the same until your back out riding with us again.

Josh’s accident was a freak occurrence, but in mountain biking freak accidents can occur in the parking lot just as easily as on the trail. I find it’s best to start off on rides at an easy pace simply to get the feel for the terrain and to see how in tune you are today. This is especially true if you are on a road trip and have been cooped up in a car for any length of time. It’s normal to be amped in this situation, and it may require self control to be sure you're all warmed up before you get radical on the trail. And then, there are the mountain bikers like Josh, who seem to thrive on those moments of death defying situations. As one noted mountain bike daredevil says, "Cautiously dangerous out on the trail."

Josh, keep up the good work. Our prayers are with you!

The Volcano Boyz

2007-04-11T16:20:00.000-07:00

THE VOLCANO BOYZ

Hard Time and Tim are two crazy MTB Boyz. They like to do one thing on their MTB's, ride sick, steep, out of control lines anywhere they can find 'em. On this particular adventure they found themselves on the Volcano fields outside Flagstaff, AZ. This place is a free for all... You got dune buggy's, motocrossers, sand rails, and now mountain bikes. The motorized locals thought these boyz were Crazy, hiking their bikes up these cinder cones... "What's an hour up for these kind of downhills anyway!" sayz HT.

The boyz may have inhaled a little too much Carbon Monoxide this day from all those stinkers... Being a little confused they ended up hiking the wrong cone, a national monument or something, and got some big fines... $600 smackers. Well now they know the boundaries.

When asked what's next, the boyz replied, "Well, we're working on the permits for Everest. We figure the downhill is long enough to justify the climb..."

You heard it here.. we'll keep you updated...

Click here to View the Volcano Video Clips

Panguitch: Southern Utah's Brian Head

2007-04-06T16:20:00.000-07:00

The Incredible Singetrack of Utah's Brian Head begs a question: Why go all the way to Moab, anyway?

by David Hard - Bike Magazine, July 1997

Aside from superb terrain, gobsmacking views, and a meticulously presented trail system, biking at Brian Head, Utah, offers some great gloating opportunities. Pull off Exit 75 just three hours north of Las Vegas on Interstate 15, and before embarking on the short drive to the resort of Brian Head, look back at the highway. Without a doubt, you'll see California- and Nevada-plated sport utes topped with bikes heading north, bound for Moab. It's hard not to laugh at these unsuspecting pilgrims. Bound for Mecca, they’re missing a miracle right under their nose, a miracle called 100 miles of convenient, easily accessible, nearly unspoiled singletrack.

In a way, Brian Head is to mountain bike resorts what Vail is to ski areas. Though neither may be the absolute last word in extreme terrain, both provide more trails for more athletes of more abilities than their competitors. In Brian Head's case, the variety can be traced to a blessed location. Situated at 9,900 feet in elevation on the edge of Utah's vast Markagunt Plateau, Brian Head can offer gently rolling terrain in one direction, steep canyon plunges in the other.

For experts, the two premier rides are the cool-sounding Dark Hollow and the cumbersome sounding Left Fork of Bunker Creek. Starting at a ridge just below 11,307-foot Brian Head Peak, the two trails were coated with a frosting of September snow during last year's Fall Colors Festival. Sticking more to the plateau, the Left Fork ride descends gently into lush high alpine meadows that gradually give way to pine forests. But before the woods swallow up the sunlight, the trail meanders along the plateau's edge, offering spectacular views. As you follow the fall-line alongside Bunker Creek, aspen groves surround you as the singletrack narrows. The riding then becomes more technical, but not confidence sapping. Roots and waterbars occur frequently, but it's still easy to keep a rhythm going until you cross Blue Spring Creek and reach Hwy. 143 after 12 miles. From there, you can ride mostly uphill back to the town of Brian Head or coast to the scenic village of Panguitch Lake and await a shuttle pickup.

Though shorter on singletrack, Dark Hollow is a more demanding ride. Dropping off Brian Head Peak, the trail traverses a slope heavy with fir trees. Soil as dark and moist as the B & M canned brown bread favored by '70's campers provides superlative traction for tight hairpin turns until the trail levels out at Cub Lake Meadow. Entering the Paradise Springs drainage, you become fully engulfed by your third ecosystem (after alpine and subalpine) of the ride. This particular realm is called the Canadian system, presumably because you'll feel like a beleaguered hockey goalie after biffing over the abundant roots. Turning onto Second Left Hand Canyon Road, you descend a jeep route past red rock formations so fantastic they look like God got bored at dinner and started playing with candle wax. After several stream crossings, you hit Hwy. 143 and can either climb the steep pavement back to Brian Head or descend to the town of Parowan for a shuttle pickup. If you take the latter option, your vertical drop will be nearly 5,280 feet - in other words, a mile-high vertical drop in 13 miles of sweet riding.

Despite the incredible scenery of those rides, Brian Head's most stunning attraction is nearby Cedar Breaks National Monument, a three-mile-wide, 2,500 foot deep natural amphitheater full of spectacularly colored pinnacles, ridges, and towers. Luckily, you can check it out from the Blowhard Mountain Trail. Beginning from a trallhead 10 miles southwest of Brian Head, the path clings close to some daunting cliff edges as it passes through bristlecone pines and the carved ramparts of Cedar Breaks.

All the best routes are meticulously described and mapped in the free Brian Head Mountain Bike Guide available throughout town. The guide lists 18 rides of varying degrees of difficulty. In addition, many of the listed routes can be abbreviated or lengthened by taking shortcuts or scenic loops. As if all these options weren't enough, there's also a six-mile system of dirt paths called the Brian Head Town Trails. Linking town offices, Brian Head Resort, and most of the businesses, these trails enable bikers a quiet way to get around the area without a car.

Be aware that at this altitude, prime riding season takes place between June and late September. For a fun orientation to Brian Head, check out its two fat tire festivals: The Brian Head Bash in early August, or the bratwurst and beer bonanza of Fall Colors/Oktoberfest, which takes place the third weekend of September. Call Brian Head Resort at (435) 586-2478 or (435) 677-2035 for more details. A variety of ski lift and shuttle packages are available from the resort as well. Bike Shop: Mountain Bike Heaven (928) 282-1312. The best coffee is nearby in Panguitch at Buffalo Java. For lodging, try the convenient, comfortable Brian Head Hotel (435) 677-1016, or reserve a condo through Brian Head Condo Reservations (800) 845-9781.

For a remote little mountain town, Brian Head also offers some amazing culture. Wayne Newton is just three hours away in Vegas, and nearby Cedar City showcases the renowned Utah Shakespearean Festival every summer. Call (435) 586-7880 for tickets, show-times, and information on shuttles from Brian Head. Just be aware that in this part of Utah, "To be or not to be?" is not the question - it's "Why the hell would anyone drive another six hours just to go to Moab, anyway?"

Mountain Biking Panguitch, Southern Utah!

2007-04-05T16:20:00.000-07:00

Panguitch is the heart of Southern Utah's most scenic mountain biking. From intense single track to picturesque mountain touring, Panguitch is minutes from Bryce Canyon, Red Canyon, Brian Head, Panguitch Lake, Zion, and is only four hours from Vegas, Boulder City, Salt Lake City, Moab, and Sedona, AZ.

Red Canyon - The Trails:

Casto Canyon Trail - Fat Track baby! Gentle, loving 5 mile climb straight up to Casto Springs. Pass through Red Rocks and HooDoos whose beauty is only rivaled by Bryce Canyon, the red sand sculpture oasis. Losse Canyon - 3 mile gentle single track climb. Stunning Red Rock Scenery. This one's good for the whole family.

Cassidy Trail - Connects Casto Canyon to Losse Canyon and extends into Red Canyon State Park off Hwy. 12. This trail is 16 miles of intense climbing and descending. It has its technical moments. Intermediate to advanced riders will have fun. Ride through Pine country and Red Rock HooDoos. You get it all on this one. This is one exciting trail!

Thunder Mountain Trail - Starts north of Red Canyon State Park. It’s an up and down trail across the top of Plateau. Fast, fat track switchback descent to the entrance of Red Canyon State Park. This is the one you’ll be telling everyone back home about!

Chimney Trail - Starts at the King Creek campground at Tropic Reservoir. A 2 mile fat track climb primer, then tight, steep, exposed switchback descent around Red Rock arches, chimneys and other Mars-like formations (sounds like some place else we know? Starts with an S...). This trail is for the Gnarly only.

More about Panguitch:

1) Along The Bikapelli Trail - Health & Fitness Sports Magazine

2) Use Your Head - Bike Magazine

3) Mountain Biking in Bryce Canyon - Mountain Bike Action Magazine

4) Panguitch 1999 DH Race Team - Photo Album

5) Panguitch Locals - Photo Album

6) Panguitch Video Theater

A GRAND RIDE

2007-04-04T16:20:00.000-07:00

A GRAND RIDE

Roable Johnson, above, follows an old road along the East Rim of the Grand Canyon to Cape Solitude, where Shannon Hurley, below, enjoys lunch and a rest. Cape Solitude, a wilderness area, looks down on the confluence of the Little Colorado and Colorado rivers and is off-limits to bikes, as this group learned from park rangers when it returned from its ride Saturday. A warning was issued.

Cyclists Bag Fame for Illegal Ride

2007-04-03T16:20:00.001-07:00

by Karyn Riedell - Sedona Red Rock News 9/20/96

A group of local mountain bikers, dubbed the "Sedona 5," pedaled their way to national recognition last November when they rode their bikes into Grand Canyon National Park territory which is strictly off-limits to mountain bikers.

Their feat - and subsequent arrest - has hit the pages of national biking magazines and fired up dialogue on the Internet.

Thousands of e-mail messages sent to the group's web site express support for the group, viewing them as folk heroes of a grassroots movement seeking trail access for mountain bikers. At the same time, critics revile them for promoting a bad-boy image of mountain bikers.

On November 19, the group decided to take advantage of the five-day shutdown of the park and go for a spin on the North Kaibab trail-head, located on the Grand Canyon's North Rim.

However, they were never able to complete their ride. Fourteen miles into it, they were intercepted by park ranger Sandie Hand, who took them to Phantom Ranch to be interviewed and frisked.

THEIR RIDE out of the Grand Canyon was quite different from their ride in six hours earlier. They left in leg shackles and handcuffs aboard a National Park Service helicopter. Accompanying them were two rangers with automatic weapons and bullet-proof vests.

The five bikers - Rama (Jon Cogan), Long Tall (John Panetta), Wheeze (Mitch Obele), Forest (Forest Michaels) and "Dangerous Dave" Hart - were taken to the National Park Service holding facility.

Ten days later, they were found guilty in the U.S. Magistrate Court of violating a national park closure and bicycling in a prohibited area. Each was fined $244 for the helicopter ride and $250 for violating the closure and riding in a prohibited area.

Although the $250 was suspended, the riders were forced to turn over their bikes to the court.

"This is the most notorious thing in the world of mountain biking," said Cogan, group member and owner of the Mountain Bike Heaven shop in Sedona.

Since the November ride, admirers have praised the group for committing a daring act of civil disobedience, while detractors have condemned them for damaging the reputations of mountain bikers everywhere.

ONE SUPPORTER, writing on the Internet from Canada, praised the group's act as "a revolution of sorts," saying that "working with the system isn't going to work in this case."

"I am all for what you guys are doing," wrote another supporter from Arizona State University.
"We cannot let the developers and the 'forest circus' (U.S. Forest Service), along with ranchers and miners, the Sierra Club, and numerous overly conservative horse loving conservation groups crowd us off the land that we pay to maintain. As a climber I have seen it already happen," he continued.

This e-mail is one of more than two-thousand sent to the Sedona 5 web site address. Most of these - about 75 percent - express support, according to Cogan.

Some of those sending e-mail messages indicate that they plan to boycott Sedona if mountain-bike access will be limited.

"I am going to Sedona this winter with my family. I am very concerned that mountain-bike access to trails might be curtailed. If this takes place, we may reconsider our winter vacation plans. I speak for a family of four," wrote David Yu Greenblat, of Rutgers University in New Jersey.

BRUCE BOIKESS, a resident of High-land Park, N.J., even seemed to think that Sedona would be closing trails to mountain bikers. "I am a mountain biker. Sedona is famous for having beautiful riding areas. I was planning to go there in the future. Now I hear trails may be closed," he wrote.

Some mountain bikers fear that the Sedona 5 are damaging their reputation. Daniel Paduchowski, manager of Sedona Bike and Bean, said he is afraid that confrontations with other groups, such as hikers and equestrians, will escalate and that even more trails will be closed to mountain bikers!

About 80 to 90 percent of trails in the Sedona area are now designated as wilderness and are thus closed to mountain bikers.

Paduchowski regards the group's Grand Canyon ride with disdain. "They're not the first people to ride the Grand Canyon. They're just the first ones to get caught. They probably think it's cool that they get written about as bad boys, dope smokers and renegades," he said.

EVEN ONE of the Sedona 5 has since abandoned his fellow bikers. Obele said that he is no longer a member and regrets his participation in the group. "I want to make it perfectly clear that I am not a member of the Sedona 5 organization, and I do not support their policies or share their opinions. Additionally, and perhaps most importantly, I do not support the use of controlled substances," Obele wrote in a letter to the Sedona Red Rock NEWS.

Another critic is Jennifer Burns, landscape architect and planner for the Sedona Ranger District.
"We're concerned about the Sedona 5 giving mountain bikers a bad name," Burns said, adding that Sedona 5 members have not attended U.S. Forest Service meetings or contributed to discussions.

"These guys have not really worked with us. If there is something we can do to meet their needs, then we'd like to talk to them. But I don't know what motivates them," she continued.

BURNS SAID that the U.S. Forest Service is considering opening up more trails for mountain bikers and developing more trail connections, such as one between Midgley Bridge and Schnebly Hill.

For his part, Cogan said that he will continue his efforts to increase trail access for mountain bikers by seeking grass-roots support.

One of the things Cogan wants to see changed is the 1964 U.S. Wilderness Act. "The Sierra Club was instrumental in keeping mountain bikes out of the wilderness. They weren't nearly as successful at keeping out ranchers and miners," Cogan said.

The Wilderness Act restricts all mechanical vehicles, including bicycles, from entering wilderness areas. "We're not saying we're better than cows. We just want equal rights. I have nothing against a wilderness act that would keep out cows, horses, mining equipment and rugged hiking shoes," Cogan said.

"Anyway, much of the area around Sedona is not really a wilderness - as defined in the Wilderness Act - so the trails should not be off-limits to bikers," Cogan said.

But Cogan said he has gained hope from the movement that he helped launch. "The political stuff is new and alive. It shows hope that maybe the people can impact something," he said.

Cosmic Energy - Part Four: Simon's Bike (and almost Simon) Go Over The Cliff

2007-04-02T16:23:00.000-07:00

Channel Some New Age Singletrack with Rama and Stickums in Sedona, Arizona

by Dave Rich, Bike Magazine - April 1995

PART IV: SIMON’S BIKE (AND ALMOST SIMON) GO OVER THE CLIFF

On Saturday morning we met Rama, Wheelie (Rama's shop mechanic nicknamed for his crazy stunt riding and his ability to true a wheel), and Simon for breakfast in Jerome, a former mining camp considered the oldest town in Arizona. Built on the side of a mountain, the town's roads are so steep they make the streets of San Francisco seem Iowa-flat, Some of the buildings are actually starting to spread downhill like slow-melting pats of butter.

Simon is known locally as "Stickums" because he went over the bars, landed on a prickly pear cactus, and was stuck with 300 needles. "I have nine lives," he told us between mouthfuls of pancake, "or at least I used to. I'm down to four now. The closest I came was racing motorcycles. I crashed going about 140 and hit a concrete barrier. The announcer said there was no way I could have survived."

From breakfast, it was a short hop to the top of Mingus Mountain where Rama, Stickums, and Wheelie began gearing up. Even though it was a warm day, they were all wearing tights, long sleeves, and gloves. "The brush overgrows the trail in some spots," Rama warned. Burn and I followed their lead. Doug thought he knew better.

Mingus Mountain is the toughest ride I have ever done. It took us five hours to cover 12 downhill miles. The first section is the Coleman Trail, a two-mile trials course of sharp rocks, agave, and steep, pinched switchbacks. If I had been alone, I would have said it was unrideable and turned back, but the Sedonans showed us otherwise."The trick is to go a little faster than seems safe and keep pedaling," Simon advised.

From the trials course, we hooked onto the Black Canyon Trail, which presented a new set of technical challenges, mostly organic. The trail was less rocky, but you had to pedal through stiff, sharp brush instead. The way was a jungle of scrub oak and cat's claw, with the occasional prickly pear land mine popping up and jabbing a quill in your sidewall. Within a mile, Doug's uncovered legs and arms were swelling and scribbled with long red hemorrhoidal scratches.

After three miles of brush torture, the bushes finally pulled back and gave way to fun, challenging trail, contouring the hillside, in and out of little valleys. Rounding yet another bend, I nearly rode into Rama, standing in the trail. He was looking at Wheelie, who was lying across the trail holding onto Simon, who was hanging by a tree limb over the edge of a 75 foot cliff...down to three lives.

"Get me up, man!" he was screaming at Wheelie. Just like on TV, I ran over, braced myself against a rock and held Wheelie's free arm, while he tried to pull Simon up without going over himself. Simon finally gained a foothold and we hoisted him back onto the trail. Simon explained that he had ridden the section a hundred times, but had been dicing with Wheelie, ate it, and went over the wrong way.

"I thought I was a goner for sure, man," he said, peering over the edge at his bike, lying unconscious on the rocks below. "I grabbed for the tree as I fell and by luck got hold of it. I was just worried the roots wouldn't hold." After a 20-minute downclimb, Wheelie and Rama managed to reach Simon's bike. Amazingly, the only injury was a taco'd front wheel, which Wheelie, living up to his name, fixed in a flash, and Simon was able to finish the ride.

The scariest part of the Mingus Mountain ride is that Rama says it's relatively tame compared to some other rides in the area. The trail rating "gonzo-abusive" was coined up north in Moab, but it belongs in Sedona. And the town and the locals are just as far out there as the riding. Rama said it all while we were discussing alien visitations during a rest stop on Mingus Mountain: "I wouldn't mind being abducted... as long as I could bring my mountain bike."

Cosmic Energy - Part Three: Mountain Biking To Higher Consciousness

2007-04-02T16:22:00.000-07:00

Channel Some New Age Singletrack with Rama and Stickums in Sedona, Arizona

by Dave Rich, Bike Magazine - April 1995

PART III: MOUNTAIN BIKING TO HIGHER CONSCIOUSNESS

After prying Burn away, we had lunch at the New Frontiers Natural Grocery Doug. recommends the Vortex Veggie Sandwich and the Astral Traveler Smoothie, while I opted for the Harmonic Convergence Veggie Burger and the Crystal Quencher. Conveniently located down the block is Mountain Bike Heaven. We were greeted at the door by Rama, who talks in a slow, stoney way, like Chong in "Up in Smoke" when he says to Cheech, "You just ate the most acid I've ever seen."

Above the door was a picture of Bagwan Shree Rashneesh, one of Rama's early spiritual teachers, flanked by posters of mountain bike gurus John Tomac and Travis Brown. Rama envisions his shop as a sort of fifth vortex. "I try and promote higher consciousness through mountain biking. It teaches lessons, principles of movement, and balance and coordination, much more than other sports.

The shop is the focal point for local riders who gather for short rides after work and weekend epics. As we rode out of the parking lot, a baker's dozen of riders moved in a pace line up over the pavement to Secret Trail, which is actually well known and appears in area guidebooks. Like most of the rides in the area, the Secret Trail is a riotous mix of Third World-class roads and singletrack.

We climbed a dirt road for a half hour until were stopped by a sinkhole wide and deep enough to swallow a mobile home. A pink jeep driver standing across the gap yelled, "Look out for the hole," much to the amusement of his passengers in the back seat. From the hole, a typically gnarly, rocky singletrack took off, snaking through a wall of scrub oak, which is essentially a tall, dry shrub. The trail careened downhill, with switchbacks and three- and four-foot drop-offs every 100 yards. As we descended, the path became smoother and faster until it became just a procession of banked turns and whoop-de-doos that led us back to the pavement just in time for sunset.

Go To Part Four...

Cosmic Energy - Part Two: We All Live In A Yellow Submarine

2007-04-02T16:21:00.000-07:00

Channel Some New Age Singletrack with Rama and Stickums in Sedona, Arizona

by Dave Rich, Bike Magazine - April 1995

PART II: WE ALL LIVE IN A YELLOW SUBMARINE

On the first morning, Golden Brainard, a Specialized team member from Flagstaff who logs winter miles in perpetually snowless Sedona, took us to Broken Arrow, about six miles from town. On weekends the area can be crowded with pink jeeps that a tour company uses as a gimmick, but we only passed four on a Friday morning.

Following broken, shelf-rock roads, we climbed onto Submarine Rock, a slickrock formation in the shape of what else?-a submarine. Like clouds, Sedona rock formations are named, including Coffee Pot Rock, revered by local riders; Snoopy Rock, which looks like Snoopy in repose on the roof of his dog house; and, I'm not making this up, Blow job Rock, which is an unlikely, horizontal rock shaft sticking out of a butte and almost into another rock's mouth-like opening. A local Puritan wanted to blow it up because he thought it obscene.

Off the back of Submarine Rock a singletrack leads to the Chapel of the Holy Cross, a church built into the rock that is highly overrated as an attraction and looks like two vertical slabs of sidewalk sticking out of the sandstone. The trail is a good intro to the area's flora. Every 100 feet, Golden would yell back, identifying plants hazardous to bike and biker alike. The plants are ubiquitous to every ride: prickly pear cactus, wide, flat cacti the thickness of a T-bone with poison tipped spines; cat's claw, with grabbing, scratching branches: and agave, a member of the aloe family used to make tequila. The agave consists of a cluster of short, leathery leaves with needle sharp points that are as hard on your tires as the agave tequila is on your stomach.

When we got back to the car, a guy practicing yoga in Richard Simmons-length shorts approached Burney and me. Rather than the boring "Hi," he came right up and asked when we were born. Actually, he didn't seem to care when I was born. "You were born under the sign of the rooster," he told Burn and quickly followed with, "Do you have a boyfriend?" When she pointed to me, he looked surprised to see me standing there in front of him. "He was born in '68? He's a dog," he looked back at Burney. "You're not right for each other. I'm part Navajo," he said like he was bragging, even though he looked as pale as my legs in February. While I mounted the bikes on the roof, Steve Running Shorts, or whatever he claimed his name to be, tried to talk her into coming over to his van to look at his Rainbow Family Photo Album.

Go To Part Three...

Cosmic Energy - Part One: We See A UFO

2007-04-02T16:20:00.000-07:00

Channel Some New Age Singletrack with Rama and Stickums in Sedona, Arizona

by Dave Rich, Bike Magazine - April 1995

PART I: WE SEE A UFO

At first glance, the UFO looked like a flaming green and white ball shot from a Roman candle. And it could have been.

Just then, we were driving past a high school in the middle of the Res, which is what everyone in the Four Corners area calls the Reservation, the very barren and somewhat eerie 200-mile stretch of slickrock and barbed wire in Arizona that's home to the Navajo and Hopi nations. But the object flew across the horizon in a straight line, neither arcing nor diving, and simply vanished when it struck the Earth's atmosphere. The three of us in the car, Doug, Burney, and I, still can't agree on whether it was a ship or a meteor.

Seeing the UFO was strange, but not as strange as the reaction of the people in Sedona, Arizona, where we were headed at the time. Expecting rolled eyes and doubt, we were met with "Yeah, you should have seen the Mother Ship that landed here last week." and "The energies in Sedona are open for all sorts of spiritual and alien contact.

"As mountain bikers have Moab, New Age crystal fondlers have Sedona. Rama, the owner of Sedona's lone bike shop, Mountain Bike Heaven, says seekers and healers from all over the planet are drawn to the energy emitted by the red sandstone buttes, spires, and pinnacles surrounding the town.

The town itself seems inseparable from the rock, built in and around it like water pouring into a series of bays and inlets. On the outskirts are the four vortexes, the energy centers where people gather to worship their deity of choice, from the sun to Native American spirits to crystals. Shops all over town try to draw you in with offers of free maps to the vortexes. The maps have ads on them for businesses such as the New Earth Lodge Vacation Cottages, Angel's Chakra balancing & Aura Clearing, and Rainbow's End Steak House.

Though it's easy to shrug off the somewhat hokey mysticism of the town, there is powerful mountain biking magic working in Sedona. The area has some of the most scenic and technical trails in the Southwest, set in a backdrop of surreal red rock desert and green vegetation.

Go To Part Two...

The Ugliest Seat in the MTB Universe!

2007-04-01T16:20:00.000-07:00

Have you ever seen a more Grotesk saddle?

...Ingredients - One WTB Saddle, One gel insert from a gel saddle cover, One gel saddle cover and 3 yards silver duct tape.

There is a method to Dangerous Dave's madness. He has shown us in Sedona that big, fat (but not nessecarily ugly) saddles are the way to go. You see, when you're in the extreme, the more surface area your saddle has to offer, the more control you'll have on your bike. When you're in the air you can squeeze the saddle between your legs or while using body english through the rough, slow sections you can maintain a comfortable contact with your saddle at all times. The light weight XC saddles are great for racing, but in the rocky, twisty, gnarly terrain we call home, you need a big fatty.

This may sound like heresy to some, but here in Sedona it's all about control in uncontrollable situations. If your riding is on the more extreme freeride side, try a large saddle, you'll love it and your riding will go up a notch, just ask Dangermouse.

So if, by chance, you know of an uglier saddle, PLEASE - Send us a picture . . . the world needs to know about it.

Hey, could someone please move those bikes . . . oh, never mind !

Sedona Full Moon Rides - Part Two

2007-03-12T16:21:00.000-07:00

Sedona Full Moon Rides - Part Two
with Rama Jon
Full Moon Riding in Sedona: no lights allowed…or needed!

There is something special about being out on your bike on the trail as the rest of the city sleeps. In the silence and the darkness you can’t help but notice nature, there is nothing else out there. The noises of the city are easily forgotten for a few moments as the full moon casts it’s mysterious spell over all of us. The heightening of the senses is addictive and is probably the key to being able to ride at all. This is the same addiction that makes us all mountain bikers in the first place, whether we are first time riders or seasoned veterans.

When you get to Sedona, the first thing to do is stop by Mountain Bike Heaven and find out when the locals are riding. Club rides, another tradition of Mountain Bike Heaven are on Wednesday and Sunday mornings and are free to all takers. Sunday’s adventure is for advanced riders only, while Wednesday is more moderate and open to all skill levels.

Sedona’s trails are easy to get to and fun to explore. It’s best to orient yourselves with the red rock formations and then go. No need for a Red Rock Pass since you can pedal to all the trails from town. So stash the car and pedal to the trails. Recent work on the trail system has made the trails easier to follow allowing for more fun and less wandering around in the woods.

There are several loops around town that can take anywhere from 2.5 hours to 5 or 6 hours. If you can’t make one of the club rides and you don’t feel comfortable on your own, Mountain Bike Heaven offers Bikapelli Adventures that are custom made for your needs. For those who want a crack at Sedona red rock riding on their own, it’s best to snag a reference map so you can find the connections from one trail system to another. Recently the names of most of the trails have been changed to protect the innocent and confuse everyone else, so don’t get too hung up on the map.

To enjoy Sedona completely you need 2 or 3 days, and it really takes several months to figure your way around. The classic Sedona rides include the red rocks at Broken Arrow and Soldier’s Pass. Both of these areas link up with many trails in many directions most of them well marked by huge cairns fondly referred to as "rocks in bondage" or by heavy tire tracks.

Other classic rides include: Secret Trails, Midgely Bridgely, Cathedral Rock, Buddha Beach, Pyramid, Compactor, CoxComb, Deadman’s Pass, Mescal Mtn, Carrol Canyon, Stutz Bearcat, the Other Side, to mention a few of the favorites.

Sedona’s brutal rough rocky cactusy side is best portrayed on the Airport Loop and it’s many offshoots. Xtreme downhillers can test their nerve on the many downhills off of Schuerman’s Mtn, but you’ll have to pedal up. If shuttling is your thing, the new Schnebely Hill/Munds Trail is just what the doctor ordered, a 10-mile downhill run into town. And for those who want something totally different, the Mingus Mtn shuttle and downhill is beyond beyond. This ride was once referred to as the revenge of the vegetables.

While in Sedona, eat like the locals. Sit-down breakfasts are best at Soup and Salad, or the Coffee Pot, and take out at Sedona Bagel and Donut can’t be beat. After ride favorites include the buffet at the Indian Palace, the best sandwiches in town are at Sedona Memories, and the Red Planet Diner and Myan Taco across the street form the bikeshop are standards. Upscale dinners can be had at the Javalina Cantina, and vegetarian faire is at Tai Spices and New Frontiers Natural Foods.

Nitelife is a bit dull in Sedona, but getting brighter. The Oak Creek Brewary provides entertainment and a cross section of Sedona natives. For nighttime coffee try Ravenheart and don’t forget to check out the new wine bar and martini bar.

Take it from someone who knows, Sedona has the best mountain biking around, day or night, with or without light.

This article was written by Rama Jon, founder of Mountain Bike Heaven. The Bike Shop can be reached at (928) 282-1312.

Special thanks to the many riders who have contributed to the full moon experience in Sedona.

Sedona Full Moon Rides - Part One

2007-03-12T16:20:00.000-07:00

Sedona Full Moon Rides - Part One
with Rama Jon

Full Moon Riding in Sedona: no lights allowed…or needed!

Full moon rides have been a tradition at Sedona’s Mountain Bike Heaven for over fifteen years. The faces have changed and the sizes of the groups vary dramatically, but one thing stays constant, no lights allowed.

After completing yet another evening adventure lit solely by the moon, our chief mechanic Wheelie-Todd commented, " you guys are crazy!" This from a guy who has no problems strapping lights on his bike and pedaling into darkness. It takes a special synergy of environmental, social, and spiritual conditions to inspire even mountain bikers to venture out on trails lit only by the rays of the moon.

Over the years the size of the groups have varied from a couple of hearty or fool-hearty riders to whole herds of mountain bikers who have partied hearty with a BBQ and festivities prior to embarking into the moonlight. One thing for certain, it takes the right combination to enjoy a full moon ride, and that combination happens in Sedona year round.

On this particular full moon in February we did one of the secret Sedona classics. A combination of known and lesser-known trails with a bit of dirt road riding tossed in to keep things under control. There were eight of us who set out on this moon lit adventure, one novice and seven seasoned riders. We kept to a mellow pace so as not to harsh on our novice, and to tell you the truth, it’s hard to go fast when your not sure what’s under your wheels. Riding in and out of shadows turns even an easy everyday trail into a challenging experience.

The dirt road provided for lots of laughs as we floated through large pockets of deep sand, sometimes sideways. And then there was the coasting race that transformed us into mountain bike maniacs going exceptionally fast. One rider provided additional entertainment when he coasted way too fast inside on a turn and went rolling, rolling, rolling, but not hurt.

Next up was the climb, a slow steady rock strewn menage of eirie shadows reflecting off of tall trees and red rocks. Our tires rolling over the rocks was the only sound other than our novice’s heavy breathing as the more skilled riders dropped him. We all waited at the top, overlooking the lights of Sedona and reveling in the silence.

As we began our descent back into town, the coyotes gave us a goodbye chorus. The silence was now broken by our squealing brakes and the rocks rolling under our wheels as we rode the sketchy descent home.

Perhaps the hardest part of this particular ride on this particular night was having the right clothes on at the right time, for even in Sedona, February evenings are a chilly time.

Over the last decade there are many memorable full moon rides. In the early days we rode the easier trails at Broken Arrow and Soldier’s Pass. I think with the largest group ever we challenged the climb at House Mountain. This is a gnarly climb even in the daylight and as I recall, several of us pretty nearly aced the climb.

My personal favorite types of full moon adventures are truly adventures. I prefer to start at 2:30 in the morning and catch the transition between night and day.

Full moon is the perfect time for a brutal or boring climb. Sometimes not being able to see what’s ahead has its advantages. Then, as the day dawns, I’m ready for the gnarly descent. In many cases we are done and on our way back for breakfast before the rest of the town is up.

On one occasion we left at 2:30 on a yet untested route and reached our destination ten minutes before a pre-arranged second ride, only to find that the other riders were still out at breakfast and this was at ten in the morning.

If I had to pick one particular ride that stands out above all others it would have to be the full moon ride when it was snowing. Snow rides in Sedona are spectacular to begin with, and to ride in the snow with the snow flakes playing hide and seek with the moon, well that’s a once in a blue moon experience.

Go to Part Two...

Mountain Bike Heaven stars in TLC's "Too Extreme" TV Show

2007-03-11T16:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike Heaven Stars in "Too Extreme" TV Show

One day I get a call from Dangerous Dave, "Hey Trouble, Robert the magician gave me the number of a woman who is looking for extreme mountain bike action footage for a television show." WOW! that’s right up our alley. Who’s more extreme than the Mountain Bike Heaven Gnarly Crew, not to mention we just love making movies.

So I call Termite Art Productions in Hollywood Ca. and send a Copy of our CRASH HIT video "Dances on Rocks." As it turns out, The Learning Channel (TLC) was creating a series on extreme lifestyles called "TOO EXTREME" and wanted a gnarly segment on mountain biking.

They loved the flick and sent a film team to capture the crew alive in action: here's a little pictorial of our 1st time on National Television.

We also boiled the segment down to Real Video for your enjoyment:

Click to Watch: MBH "TOO EXTREME" Segment - Real Video (7:57)

Click here to download FREE RealPlayer

Revealing The Secret Sedona

2007-03-10T17:20:00.000-07:00

Slickrock with Great Restaurants
by Richard Cunningham - MTB Action Magazine 9/96

Sedona is one of those art-gallery-on-every-corner, chic Southwestern tourist destinations, right? Serious Arizonian explorers remark with downturned lips that Sedona wasn't a "real town" until 20 years ago. While all this may be true, MBA discovered another side of Sedona that probably should be kept secret. Surrounding the artsy New Age village, tucked between vertical red and white sandstone cliffs, are the kind of awesome singletrack trails that hardcore mountain bikers live for. We admit that we expected Sedona's uppercrust curio shops, espresso bars, jewelry stores and trattorias to be down on mountain bikers, but the reverse is true. Sedona's city government has chosen to embrace the mountain bike community and, contrary to some people's first impressions, fat-tire cyclists will discover a side of Sedona that is pleasant, accessible and affordable.

The MBA wrecking crew ended up in Sedona because ProFlex Commander-in-Chief Ralph Hines was sending the Pro-Flex/BMW race team to Arizona for a week of training for the World Cup. We decided to tag along for a chance at free food, serious Sedona back country and riding with the world's fastest mountain bike racers. We knew we could eat with the best of the ProFlex team, but we did have major reservations about our ability to hang with three-time World Champion Hank Djernis.

WHERE TO RIDE IN SEDONA

There are no trail maps detailed enough to depict every trail surrounding Sedona. The all-time best guide to mountain biking in Arizona is Fat-Tire Tales and Trails by Cosmic Ray. There are two good bike shops in Sedona that will get you pointed in the right direction and it takes little coaxing to lure shop employees out for a ride. How do you choose which shop to visit? Conservative types may choose to visit Sedona Sports on the north end of Highway 89A, while true moto devotees should visit "Rama" at Mountain Bike Heaven on the west end of the same highway.

For an initial orientation to Sedona's brand of red clay and rock, we would recommend the loop out to Submarine Rock. This is a popular route for Jeep tours, so it's difficult to stray off the main double-track. The loop transverses a wide array of canyonland with liberal doses of slick-rock. Most cyclists will be humbled by the tacky-looking pink Jeeps' climbing and descending prowess. There is a great singletrack return from Submarine Rock to South Sedona that offers a spectacular vista of Bell Rock, one of the city's trade-mark sandstone domes. For the pastoral side of Sedona, take a leisurely ride to Oak Creek. Oak Creek meanders through most of the area, and a little exploration will reveal some spectacular swimming holes.

To the west, there are some cliff dwellings and ruins above Boynton Pass that deserve a look-see, but if you stray too far north, you will illegally be entering a designated wilderness area. With so much legal riding available, it's stupid to tarnish the rep of all mountain bikers by venturing into places that are off-limits - especially after the city planning commission has compelled developers to incorporate public access and trail easements into all projects that abut the National Forest.

TOURING WITH THE CHAMP

After a couple of four-hour guided singletrack excursions, our legs were feeling pretty worked. We had been staying in the Desert Quail Motel, situated in the southern part of Sedona below Bell Rock. Don Troutman, the Desert Quail's owner and Sedona's mountain bike evangelist, had arranged for a local NORBA Elite racer to be our guide as we prepped for the arrival of the ProFlex team. We figured that after two days of hammering in the hills, our first day with the BMW/ProFlex team would be an easy one. The ProFlex team treated us like royalty, taking away our personal bikes and giving us special Team-Issue 954s. A white label on the top tube of the bike they handed me read "Flank I" a tough standard to live up to. The bike's intended owner, three-time world champion Henrik Djernis, rolled out on his backup bike, signaled to the team and we headed for the hills. I got the feeling that this was not going to be an easy ride. The next five hours were devoted to a middle-chainring tour of the Sedona Valley. We rode singletrack and slickrock, forded creeks, threaded through fancy housing developments, raced pink Jeeps, perched atop sheer cliffs, descended the impossible and climbed the vertical. I admit that I thought I was a pretty good slickrock and singletrack rider, but I was continually humiliated by the bike-handling prowess of Hank Djernis and Nick Feid. Those guys are awesome! I was feeling pretty worked when we coasted into town for a hydration break. After the dusty peloton had quenched its thirst at a downtown mini-mart, we rolled out to explore "Secret Trails," a maze of singletrack set against a 300-foot wall of stone to the north of the village. Hank and his company of hammerheads were relentless pedalers. The trail unrolled below our wheels like a stone conveyor belt. The blue-green junipers and pinion pines were an aromatic blur that filled my peripheral vision.

"Is it possible to suffer in heaven?" I asked myself. I struggled to stay attached to the group as the sun slowly dropped below the red cliffs of Doe Mountain. Luckily, nearly all the fire roads and trails leading back to Sedona are downhill. At the four-hour mark, the life was draining from my quadriceps. I downed some aspirin and eased back to the peloton, where Hank was hanging back. We were motoring up a wide, sandy fire road south of Cathedral Rock. With about five miles to go, the World Champ sensed that I had nothing left and asked me if I needed some help. Proudly, I declined. The group was still together when Djernis turned to his British teammate and ordered him to get to the front and attack. The two took off like rockets, closing the 200-yard gap and splitting the peloton into pieces.

Alone and off the back, I savored the view as the last golden rays of sunset illuminated the eastern walls rimming the valley. I was glad they were gone. Finally I could enjoy the view. As I topped the last gentle climb and coasted toward the Desert Quail Inn, I could see the entire team, strung out for a mile or so down the road. Hank was leading.

A PROMISE TO RETURN

As with most great experiences, we found ourselves loading up the MBA Volvo all too soon. ProFlex's Ralph Hines met us at the car. "Don't miss this thing next year," said Ralph. "We'll plan on staying an extra week."

The morning sun was turning the frosty meadows to steam. The short time I had spent in Sedona seemed like a blur, but the stiffness in my thighs reminded me that it was real enough.

"I'll be back," I pledged. "I wonder if the Moab set knows how much they are missing?"

TRAVEL PLANS

Sedona’s Secret Details

Where is Sedona? Halfway between Phoenix and Flagstaff on Highway 179. Take Interstate 17 about an hour and a half north of the Phoenix airport.

The best lodging? Of course, it’s the Desert Quail Inn (800-385-0927). These folks are bike-friendly and can set you up with a guide if necessary. Sedona has a full complement of lodging choices.

The best time to visit? Any time. There are 320 sunny days a year, and the altitude and geographical location keep the temperature moderate. It will snow a little in the winter.

The best bike shops? Mountain Bike Heaven. Yes, they rent dual-suspension bikes. Phone (928)282-1312; Sedona Sports also rents bikes. Phone (928) 282-1317.

The best trail map? Fat Tire Tales and Trails (Mountain Bike Fun in Arizona). Contact Mountain Bike Heaven for your copy: (928) 282-1312.

Mountain Bike News with Rama Jon - Cactus Cup

2007-03-09T17:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike News
with Rama Jon 10/99

CACTUS CUP

The mountain bike race season is here. Every year it kinda sneaks up on me. The MBAA, Mountain Bike Assoc. of Arizona, race series begins with the traditional "roadies on dirt challenge" at Casa Grande the last weekend of January. The early races of the series: Casa Grande, White Tanks, Estrella and McDowell are all near the Phoenix metro area. These races tend to favor the more cardiovascularly fit racers at the expense of technical skills. The next four races tend to equalize the field as technical skills begin to play a more important part. These races will be at: Oracle, Prescott, Mountaineer, with the state finals at Williams. These courses tend to be hillier, at elevation, and are significantly more technical.

This year Arizona mourns the loss of it’s most prestigious mountain bike race, the Cactus Cup in Scottsdale. In the past, the Cactus Cup kicked off the national mountain bike race season. This year the kick off will be at the Sea Otter Classic in California. The Cactus Cup had always been on the early side for many national and international race teams, and although it was a great warmup for the Sea Otter, two national races on consecutive weekends was just too much. In addition last year, Specialized Mountain Bikes, the title sponsor of the Cactus Cup since it’s inception pulled out. It became clear that without the support of the mountain bike industry, the Cactus Cup would soon be doomed.

As the sport of mountain biking matures, one would think that mountain bike racing might also mature. In fact, just the opposite seems to be occurring. As cross country racing attendance has perhaps peaked, many new race venues for mountain bikers have sprung up. The most popular of which is down hill and dual slalom venues. These types of races are all action packed and are very spectator and television friendly. Other venues have sprouted up that accentuate the gnarliness of mountain bikers. Those include 24 hour races and eco challenges that include multi-sport activities and team dynamics.

As mountain bike racers pedal into the new millennium, there will be plenty of opportunities for competitive challenges. No matter what venue tickles your fancy, let us all remember why we ride mountain bikes in the first place. FOR FUN.

Good luck to all mountain bike racers. Let’s have a great season.

Mountain Bike News with Rama Jon - Moab

2007-03-08T17:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike News
with Rama Jon 10/99

24 HOURS OF MOAB

Mountain bikers will do almost anything especially if it’s packaged as a race. That’s what took us to Moab, Utah several weeks ago. It wasn’t a gnarly downhill race or even a cross country race as such, but rather it was a 24 hour race. Fortunately for me, I was part of the technical support crew and not racing. The weather was spectacular, which is a bit unusual for Moab during this time of the year, with temperatures approaching 90 degrees during the day and dropping to 40 degrees at night. The 24 Hours of Moab kicked off a week of festivities and races that is part of the annual Fat Tire Festival in Moab.

The 24-hour race was sponsored by Newsweek. Racers either rode for the entire 24 hours or were members of a team and swapped off laps. The course was a 16-mile super sandy dirt road with some sketchy drop-offs and the course got even softer as the race progressed. There were 360 teams of various sizes with the largest concentration of teams coming from Colorado. Even though there were only a few teams from Arizona, they consisted of some very fast riders.

The team I was support for was a veteran (over 35 years old) women’s team. According to team captain Debra Morrell, it was harder getting the 4-team members together than it was to actually do the race. They had 3 committed racers, but kept on having trouble rounding up the 4th. They finally found a 4th, but as the race progressed, it was clear that they would have been better off with only the 3 hardcore riders. As it turned out, their 4th rider hurt herself on her first lap, the 4th lap for the team. Her knee injury was not super serious, but it cost the team the lap and an hour and a half.

The penalty took the team from 45 minutes ahead to 45 minutes behind. It took them 2 more laps to re-gain the lead, and this time they didn’t look back. But that was not the end of problems for the team. Since this was a 24-hour race, there were several night laps for each rider. The night laps were ridden with lights and Heather Walker ran into light troubles on her night laps. Her main light went out after 40 minutes leaving her with more than an hour of darkness to struggle through. By her second night lap she had rigged a strong backup light that helped ease the problem.

As the night wore on some teams slept, but not ours. Debra Morrell, Heather Walker and Janet Kerby continued to swap laps through the night and by daybreak they had a convincing lead in their class. For me, the highlight of the night was watching the lights flickering on the racecourse all night long. I don’t know how these gals kept going, but each one ended up by racing 4 sixteen-mile laps. By 10:30 the next morning, Janet Kirby was handed the last lap for the team and she raced them home to victory. These gals had so much fun that they are already looking for the 4th member for next year’s race.

Congratulations to the entire team and all of the racers. This type of race really puts everyone through their paces.

Mountain Bike News with Rama Jon - Vegas

2007-03-07T17:20:00.000-07:00

Mountain Bike News
with Rama Jon 10/99

VEGAS

Each September the bike industry marks the model year changeover at the Interbike Trade Show. This year’s show was in Las Vegas and included an off road demo for the first day, then followed up with 4 action packed days of indoor trade show. The indoor displays make up one of the largest Trade Shows in the world. Each year the amount of media input is enough to boggle the mind. I’m glad that for us the Trade Show is more play than work, and play we did.

For us the dirt demo was more of a social gathering than a demo. The reason for this is that we are smart enough to know that riding mountain bikes in the desert without slime in your tubes is fool hearty and will always lead to flat tires. It was that way last year and it was the same this year with about half the demo riders returning their bikes with flat tires. After socializing at the dirt demo for a few hours we headed out for some real mountain biking in Boulder City.

Boulder City is the town just after the Boulder Dam on your way to Las Vegas. The town was developed for the dam workers and old town Boulder City is quaint and majestic. Bootleg Canyon is on the north side of town and 4000 acres have been set aside for human powered use. The trail system has been built almost single handedly by Brent Thompson, a local artist and avid mountain biker. After having heart surgery, Thompson’s doctor advised him to do yard work and I guess he got carried away and that’s how the trails at Bootleg Canyon began.

The trails at Bootleg Canyon are of two types, the ones you can ride up and the ones you can’t. The locals do a lot of car shuttling to ride the steep technical downhill trails. It’s not uncommon to do 3 or 4 shuttle runs in a row. Anyone who disapproves of the shuttles can pedal up the dirt road, but with temperatures regularly over 100 degrees, it just seems to make more sense to do like the locals and shuttle to the top.

The next few days were spent between the Trade Show and riding in Boulder City, with the riding predominating especially after the first full day on the inside. The report for the year is not much new other than Cannondale’s one armed bandit fork and better pricing due to the devaluation of the yen and other Asian currencies. It should be a good year to get value for your dollar.