Ride to Maria's at Winkelman on March 14

Seven bikes with 8 riders departed the Chevron shortly after 8:00 this morning on the "official" ride.  There had been plans for Mt. Lemmon near Tucson, but it's snow-covered and cold. Instead we chose one of the favorites, Maria's at Winkelman.   Another smaller group set out for breakfast and a Car Show at The Resort at the invitation of Derek Hudson.  Before the departures, Al Jeanquart did a land-office business selling tickets and pins prior to next Saturday's Blue's Angels Picnic.  Our speakers on Saturday March 21 work with the wild horses that we often see near the Salt River, and the event starts at 11:30 with the meal at 12:00.  Part of the fun will include a ticket raffle for many items, with the prize item being a Motorcycle Blanket filled with decals.  It's that time of year, and you should have your meal ticket now, or talk to Mini-Al immediately.  Sorry, no pictures today.

 

Bob Shinnick was our leader today, with Bill Lieser at the tail.  There was radio talk about the effect of the Coronavirus on events, but the crowd at the Renaissance Festival seemed bigger than ever as we returned on the 60.  Again we had a beautiful day after all the rain as we traced the Copper Canyon Trail from Superior to Winkelman, then from there to Globe after the meal.  We passed a large group of bicyclists were on their way to the Winkelman Park and Campground.  The meal at Maria's was as tasty as ever, and the riders enjoyed casual respite around the table.  There was cool air and lots of flowers along the way to Globe, where our leader reported the elevation is just a few feet short of 5,000.  There is a marvelous change to green foliage on the desert since we went through only a week before.  A quick stop at Globe including some $2.34 gas, and it was a smooth trip home.

 

Today's trip was 150 miles in 3 hours 8 minutes elapsed time for an average speed of 48 mph.  Today was the last AZ ride of the season for Bob Keeler and Bill Lieser. With warm weather and the Coronavirus emergency, more will soon be leaving.  Our fearless Leader Duane will be in Hawaii next week.  

 

The Rim Ride is planned for next Wednesday, March 18 starting at 8:00 AM.  Rain is again predicted.  See what happens.  

 

Phil Parsons