PedalĀ Talk
The Newsletter of Granite State Wheelers
March / April 2022 Volume 50, Issue 2
* CLICK IMAGE TO VIEW LARGER *
Remember to post your GSW ride photos on Meetup to appear in the next online issue of Pedal Talk!Ā
In This Issue
A MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT
āSpring is around the corner ā get ready to ride!ā
With 2022 underway and regular club rides resuming, Iām very pleased that the Mileage Coordinator position formerly held by Hetty Andrews has been filled by Lindsay Collins of Newbury NH. Some Ride Leader and Reporting Guidelines have changed ā see separate article in this newsletter and the downloadable file on our website Members Only page. (In case you missed it, the password for 2022 is RIDEwithGSW! ) Also new and to reflect recent trends, we will have four mileage categories on the new ride sign-in sheets: Road, Gravel, Rail Trail, and Mountain. Commuter / Utilitarian mileage should be sent directly to Lindsay at mileage@gswheelers.org . We look forward to a busy year, likewise Lindsay will be busy logging your club mileage!
A second newsworthy announcement is that the Board approved a $25,000 grant program at our January meeting.Ā Similar to prior grant programs, ten $2,500 grants will be awarded to NH bike-ped groups using profits from our Seacoast Century event.Ā The application appears in this newsletter.Ā All entries satisfactorily completed will be reviewed and scored by the full GSW Board.Ā The application period will run from March 1 to April 8, Board scoring for four weeks, then the announcements after May 9 during National Bike Week.Ā We look forward to seeing applications from a wide range of bike-ped / rail trail organizations. Ā Tax-exempt status is not required but each applicant must have at least a registered NH Trade Name and a bank account.Ā Review the application (below) and send your completed letter to gswgrants@gswheeler.org.
Read More
While the GSW is now in its 51st year, how about a flashback to the 1990ās? Former GSW Concord member Barry Cotter now in Florida sent us his experience with using bikes as his sole means of transportation. Some people may have laughed at him in Concord, but check out his story and where he is now. Yes, bikes can be used for transportation, not just recreation. See his article in this newsletter plus some photos of when we were all a lot younger. 
And thinking of the younger generations, where are they in the ranks of the GSW membership? Our total membership headcount of about 450 is stable but we are not attracting younger riders. I feel many factors are involved and having active modern social media accounts could help. Iām told Facebook is for the āold folksā while Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are used by the younger crowd. But these apps require constant updating to keep people engaged. Having skills with the apps is one thing; keeping them updated with interesting posts is another. Anyone out there with these skills, bicycling interests, and time to help the GSW? Weād like to hear from you!
Meanwhile, stay tuned for announcements of GSW picnic & ride events around state on some weekends and of course our Seacoast Century on September 24. Without so many Covid restrictions (none, we hope) our NH state park permit has allowed us to increase the rider limit. See the Seacoast Century announcement in this newsletter or website. Register via BikeReg or volunteer to ride for free by contacting Paula Fines at sccvolunteer@gswheelers.org.
Meanwhile, best wishes to all for a great 2022 and stay healthy! Feel free to contact me with your suggestions to make the GSW better for everyone.
GSW Announcements
GSW Offers Ten $2,500 Grants to NH Bicycling Organizations
The Granite State Wheelers (GSW) bicycling club was started in 1971 and has become the most active, adult recreational bicycling club in New England. The club emphasizes and promotes safety, education and camaraderie. Our signature event is the Seacoast Century held every year since 1973 in September. Proceeds from this nationally-acclaimed event are invested back into GSWās programs including this Grant Program.
Granite State Wheelers is pleased to offer up to ten $2,500.00 grants to NH-based bicycling organizations for worthwhile projects in the areas of bicycle safety, education, and ridership expansion.
In order for the GSW Board to determine the ten 2022 winners, the following information must be received for review not later than Friday, April 8, 2022. Please submit your application in PDF format on your organizationās letterhead. Use additional sheets to provide your answers and number each response according to the listed item. Supplemental letters of support for your project are welcome and will be considered in the approval process. Grant recipients will be required to submit a brief, final report.
Read More
1. Organization name and business address
2. Organization type
3. Date organization formed
4. Organization mission statement
5. Communities served
6. Group chairman/president and contact information (address, phone & email)
7. Secondary contact person (position, address, phone & email)
8. Does your organization have its own registered NH name and bank account? (Mandatory)
9. Description of project: Describe in 500 words or less.
10. How does your project contribute to safety or education for bicyclists in NH or increase
bicycling in NH?
11. How will you measure the success of your project?
12. Do you have any other donors for your project? (Clubs & youth groups, local businesses)
13. How will you recognize Granite State Wheelers for the grant?
Grant applications with an authorized signature can be emailed to: GSWgrants@gswheelers.org
or mailed to:
Granite State Wheelers
Grant Application Committee
215 South Broadway # 216
Salem, NH 03079-3374
603.898.5479
Winners will be notified and publicity provided by Granite State Wheelers on May 16, 2022.
Thank you for your interest in this GSW grant program!
āĀ Ā NEW GSW Rider Mileage Guidelines – February 25, 2022
Riding mileage is tracked by the Mileage Coordinator for GSW members participating in GSW rides posted in Pedal Talk or on https://www.meetup.com/Granite-State-Wheelmen-bicycling/ and meeting the following requirements:
a.Ā Ā A GSW MeetUp ride may not be listed within a few hours of an existing ride already scheduled at the same location.
b.Ā Ā A GSW MeetUp ride should be posted with 24+ hours lead time to allow riders to learn about the ride and make plans to attend. Changes to posted rides due to weather or cancellation can be posted any time to inform those riders planning to attend.
c.Ā Ā A GSW ride must be held in public places with ample parking – not private driveways. A location must be specified.
d.Ā Each rider, GSW member or not, must print and sign their own name on the GSW Sign-in Sheet for that ride. This is required for liability release and insurance coverage.
GSW Sign-in sheet mileage received by Mileage Coordinator by the first day of even numbered months will be included in year-to-date totals reported in the following Pedal Talk issue.
Riding mileage will be tracked separately for each of the following ride types as identified on the GSW Sign-in sheet:
ā¢Ā Ā On-road
ā¢Ā Ā Rail Trail
ā¢Ā Ā Gravel
ā¢Ā Ā Mountain
Read More
Commuting Miles –Ā will be tracked. Riders may individually submit their commuting miles to include mileage to-and-from work, errands, or commuting to a GSW ride.
Charity Rides – If you attended a charity ride and a GSW ride leader was not present, submit your name, charity ride name, mileage, location, and date.
Ride LeadersĀ – Print the date, your name, the ride type, and the location of the ride on the ride sheet. Ensure that each riderās name on ride sheets is signed as well as printed in a legible manner.
Submitting a Sign-in Sheet:
1.Ā Ā Scan in pdf format and email to: mileage@gswheelers.org
2.Ā Or, Mail to:Ā
Lindsay Collins
PO Box 497
Newbury, NH 03255
Photo submissions will NOT be accepted.
GSW Ride Leaders must retain the originals of all emailed GSW Sign-in sheets until April 1 of the following calendar year.
The decision by the Mileage Coordinator of the eligibility for inclusion of a riderās mileage is final.
Former GSW Concord member recalls his transition to the Sunshine State ā thanks to cycling!
My Bike Story by Barry Cotter
ā¢ Rode bike to work in Concord
ā¢ Money saved grew to point I could buy house in Concord
ā¢ House more than doubled in value
ā¢ Still rode bike saved more money
ā¢ Stayed at Concord job to get pension
ā¢ Sold house, paid-off bank and left Concord with far more than I paid for the house (2004)
Read More
ā¢Ā 5 days with cat in U-Haul to reach Florida .
ā¢Ā 30 days in hotel in Jacksonville
ā¢Ā Paid cash for new house in Jacksonville
ā¢Ā No mortgage and property taxes <10% of Concord
ā¢Ā Ride bike everywhere, got job with the city and new pension
ā¢Ā Saved even more money
ā¢Ā At age 60 collected Concord pension and worked at current job
ā¢Ā In 2022 Jacksonville house that was bought with interest from 1st house triples in value
ā¢Ā Saving rates goes up
ā¢Ā Continue to ride bikes!
Lesson is that not only do bikes save money but allow people to build wealth.
Had I not ridden bike I would still be stuck paying a landlord and under-employed with less wealth.
Then there are the health and environmental benefitsā¦
I have never regretted riding bikes!
Barry Cotter
Environmental Specialist
City of Jacksonville
Jacksonville, FL 32202
2022 GSW Social Information & Schedule
Monthly in-season social meetings that usually run from May to October are cancelled until further notice. Check the GSW MeetUp calendar and watch for email blasts to get the latest news.
Remember to check with individual ride leaders and event coordinators for all rides and events!
Save the date!
June 12th, Sunday,Ā –Ā ride/picnic lunch at Bear Brook park. Details to follow in the next newsletter.
Rebecca Dowd – Concord, NH
GO FOR THE GEAR!
Support the Granite State
Wheelers
Seacoast Century 2022
The planning for this yearās event is up and running. As of this writing, we had over 500 people already signed up. We are looking to attract 1200 riders to the event.
We are facing some challenges for the event this year. The increasing cost of insurance and the added cost of parking at the venue has had an impact on the pricing of the ride.
That said we are well on our way to our goal.
In terms of the route, it will stay the same unless the local jurisdiction decides they want to make some changes.
Safety is our biggest concern and making sure riders have a great experience is our goal. These go hand in hand. To help with this we will be increasing our education to riders and doing orientations by way of Facebook to make sure everyone understands our expectations.
To help publicize the event we have established a Facebook page specific to this event where we will share tips on riding a century and information about the historical markers along the route.
The event page also gives us the opportunity to advertise the event and build our brand and hopefully attract new members to the club.
Please take a minute to like the new page and share it with friends. The page can be found by doing a search for the Granite State Wheelers Seacoast Century 2022. You can also find it by putting this in the search bar @gswseacoastcentury.
New for this year is the āafter-partyā which we are working on. We have close to 100 people signed up at this point. This will take place at one of the local establishments within walking distance of the event.
READ MORE
Volunteers, volunteers, volunteers. The only way to make this event successful and ensure everyone has fun is to have a staff of volunteers. It takes some 60-80 people to staff the positions. The bonus is you can ride for free and get parking to boot. Jim and Paula Fines have taken on the difficult task of pulling this effort together. Reach out and step up to these guys at sccvolunteer@gswheelers.org
I look forward to working with the century team for 2022. I will be the lead and you can contact me at seacoastcentury2022@gmail.com. Donna Hepp will be handling Bike Reg, Bill Kennedy and Bill Hayes are helping with any route changes, Patty Tompkins is managing the logistics around food and transportation, and of course, Dave Topham helping to make things flow smoothly contributing his knowledge and experience from 48 years of being involved in the century.
Finally, I wanted to share a few things we are learning as people register on Bike Reg. More than 90% of the people registered are over 40. There are slightly more men registered than women. The registration āheat mapā shows people are coming from all over the east coast all the way down to Florida and as far away as Hawaii.
So, letās show them a great time.
Mark MacKenzie
Our thanks to the Seacoast Century Planning and Support Team:
Seacoast Century Coordinators:
Donna Hepp dhepp3@gmail.com (Permits, Registration)
Paula and Jim Fines ā¦.pfines@comcast.net (Volunteer Coordinators)
Mark Mac Kenzie msmackenzie@comcast.net (Safety, Mechanics and Police Coordination)
Dave Topham ā Office Support, Electronic Sign-Up and RwGPS systems
Patty Tompkins – Food and Supplies
Bill Kennedy ā Routes
Bill Haynes – Route Marking
Mark St. Denis ā Rider Data and Spreadsheets
GSW CLUB MILEAGEĀ
MILEAGE TOTALS INFORMATION
Welcome Lindsay Collins as our new Mileage Coordinator!
āĀ Some Ride Leader and Reporting Guidelines have changed, see the downloadable file on our website Members Only page.
āĀ New for 2022, Four mileage categories on the new ride sign-in sheets: Road, Gravel, Rail Trail, and Mountain.
āĀ Commuter / Utilitarian mileage should be sent directly to Lindsay at mileage@gswheelers.org.
āĀ GSW Mileage Year:Ā January 1 through December 31 of the current year.
Your responsibility:Ā If you want your mileage recorded, please print your name clearly! Indicate if you are a paid GSW member. MeetUp only
members will not have their mileage recorded.
**NEW** GSW Rider Mileage Guidelines effective February 25, 2022
Riding mileage is tracked by the Mileage Coordinator for GSW members participating in GSW rides posted in Pedal Talk or on https://www.meetup.com/Granite-State-Wheelmen-bicycling/ and meeting the following requirements:
a.Ā Ā A GSW MeetUp ride may not be listed within a few hours of an existing ride already scheduled at the same location.
b.Ā Ā A GSW MeetUp ride should be posted with 24+ hours lead time to allow riders to learn about the ride and make plans to attend. Changes to posted rides due to weather or cancellation can be posted any time to inform those riders planning to attend.
c.Ā Ā A GSW ride must be held in public places with ample parking – not private driveways. A location must be specified.
d.Ā Each rider, GSW member or not, must print and sign their own name on the GSW Sign-in Sheet for that ride. This is required for liability release and insurance coverage.
GSW Sign-in sheet mileage received by Mileage Coordinator by the first day of even numbered months will be included in year-to-date totals reported in the following Pedal Talk issue.
Riding mileage will be tracked separately for each of the following ride types as identified on the GSW Sign-in sheet:
ā¢Ā On-road
ā¢Ā Rail Trail
ā¢Ā Gravel
ā¢Ā Mountain
Commuting MilesĀ – will be tracked. Riders may individually submit their commuting miles to include mileage to-and-from work, errands, or commuting to a GSW ride.
Charity Rides – If you attended a charity ride and a GSW ride leader was not present, submit your name, charity ride name, mileage, location, and date.
Ride LeadersĀ – Print the date, your name, the ride type, and the location of the ride on the ride sheet. Ensure that each riderās name on ride sheets is signed as well as printed in a legible manner.
Submitting a Sign-in Sheet
1.Ā Ā Scan in pdf format and email to: mileage@gswheelers.org
2.Ā Ā Or, Mail to:
Lindsay Collins
PO Box 497
Newbury, NH 03255
Photo submissions will NOT be accepted.
GSW Ride Leaders must retain the originals of all emailed GSW Sign-in sheets until April 1 of the following calendar year.
The decision by the Mileage Coordinator of the eligibility for inclusion of a riderās mileage is final.
Ride sign-in sheets are still needed for insurance and liability reasons.
Commuter Mileage
| Mileage totals coming soon! |
On Road Mileage
| Mileage totals coming soon! |
Rail Trail
| Mileage totals coming soon! |
Gravel
| Mileage totals coming soon! |
Mountain
| Mileage totals coming soon! |
Rail Trail Etiquette
With more and more people using the rail trails in New Hampshire thanks to on-going development and a lot of hard work by volunteers, we hear of incidents which make biking or walking on the trails less than the best experience.Ā Sometimes guidelines are posted at trailheads, parking lots, etc. but they are commonly not seen or ignored if they are seen and read ā unfortunately.Ā The following list has been compiled from various on-line sources and might provide some guidance for the next time you are using a rail trail ā or at least you could tell someone else about established guidelines.Ā Just like on-road cycling, a little common sense and courtesy goes a long way!Ā
Read More
All users of trails
Show courtesy to other trail users at all times.
Use the right side of the trail except when otherwise designated.
Always pass on the left.Ā When overtaking someone, let them know you are approaching and will be passing on their left. You may hear a cyclist call out, “On your Left!” as one comes up from behind. That means you should stay to your right.
Respect the rights of property owners.
Stay on the trail. Do not cut switchbacks or take shortcuts.
Whenever you stop for a view, a rest, or to yield, move off the trail so it is clear for others.
Keep dogs on leash (maximum length 8 feet) and remove pet feces from trail.
Greet people you meet. This makes sure they know you are there and is polite. A simple “Howdy” or “Nice Day” is fine.
When in a group, travel single file or take no more than half of a wide trail. Make sure everyone in your group understands what actions to take when encountering walkers, bikers, and horses.
Horses always have the right of way. If you encounter a horseback rider, get off the trail on the downhill side. Horses will tend to bolt uphill when spooked. Also, to the horse you waiting on the uphill side makes you look more like a predator waiting to pounce. Quietly greet the rider and ask if you are ok where you are. Stand quietly while the horse passes.
If you approach a horse from behind itās critical that you announce yourself loudly but calmly so you do not scare the animal. Let the rider know youād like to pass at the next safe location. Do NOT approach quickly — itās dangerous for you and the rider.
Use the trails quietly. Shouting may be fun for kids, but keep conversations low and enjoy the lack of horns, engines, and city noises. There is such a thing as noise pollution ā and cell phones are included.
Carry-in, carry-out ā do not litter. It just does not make sense that someone spending time to get out into nature would purposely destroy it.
Take a picture. A pretty rock or a bunch of flowers deserve to remain where they are. We have a need for mementos of our adventures, but picture in your mind what the place would look like if the group before you had taken what you are about to put in your pocket.
Report vandalism. If there is contact information at the trailhead, tell the managing agency of any destruction or management needs you notice.
You will run into some people that feel they have a right to do whatever they want outdoors. You may see wide, detours around muddy spots with footprints, hoof prints, and tire tracks all adding to the damage. You’ll see washed out gullies created by mountain bikers having fun tearing up the turf. You’ll have a biker fly past you with no warning.
These are the people that make a negative impression. Keep your eyes open for them for your own safety, but also recognize the many others that are courteous and polite. And, make sure people put you into the courteous and polite category after they’ve met you on the trail.
Bicyclists
You are responsible for the safe operation of your vehicle.
Yield to pedestrians and horses
Give audible warning when passing pedestrians or other bicyclists on their left.
Ride at a safe speed. Slow down and form a single file in congested conditions, reduced visibility, and other hazardous conditions.
Pedestrians
Stay to the right side of the trail except when otherwise designated.
Watch for other trail users.
Be especially alert when running.
Listen for audible signals and allow faster trail users (runners and bicyclists) to pass safely.Ā
Bicycling Safely in NH
For more information see NH DOTĀ website.
Bicycles are Vehicles
Bicyclists have the same rights and duties as drivers of motor vehicles. (RSA265:143)
Bicyclists must stop at stop signs and red lights, yield to pedestrians, and ride with traffic.
Itās The Law
-
Yield the right of way to approaching traffic before entering the roadway. (RSA 265:32)
-
Stop at all stop signs. (RSA 265:30-I)
-
Donāt cross the stop line when the traffi c signal is red. (RSA 265:10-III a&d)
-
Take left turn from the outermost left turn lane when multiple left turn lanes are available. (RSA 265:42-II)
-
Stop for pedestrians in all crosswalks. Donāt pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. (RSA 265:35-I&IV)
-
To prepare for the turn, first look behind and merge to the center line or left turn lane as traffic permits, signaling to get the cooperation of following drivers as necessary.
-
Do not operate on sidewalks (RSA 265:26-a), or ride the wrong way on one-way streets (RSA 265:23-II).
-
Bicyclists must wear at least one item of refl ective apparel from Ā½ hour after sunset to Ā½ hour before sunrise (RSA 265:144-XII).
-
Helmets are required by law for cyclists less than 16 years of age. (RSA 265:144-X).
-
Ride on the right side of the road, with traffic. (RSA 265:16-II) Riding against traffic is illegal.
Safety Education
Rail Trails in New Hampshire
Visitors will find more than 380+ miles of open rail trail in every corner of the state. New Hampshire is home to four regional projects. Refer to the NHRTC rail trail listing for more information:Ā Ā https://nhrtc.org/about-3-3/
The Granite Rail Trail, the Cross New Hampshire Adventure Trail, the six state New England Rail Trail Network, and the East Coast Greenway.
The Presidential Range Rail Trail is 18 miles long on the Northern end of the state and is suitable for mountain bikers, hikers, and equestrians. The Derry Rail Trail, Windham Rail Trail, Salem Bike Ped corridor combined route, spans just over 9 miles. It begins on the north end in Derry and winds through Windham and ends in Salem.
The Northern Rail Trail is nearly 60 miles of rail trail, which winds through woodlands and rock between Lebanon and Boscawen. Lake Winnisquam Scenic Trail, Wow Trail is nestled among the Belnap Mountains of Central New Hampshire and offers a nearly 2 mile paved route.
Read More
Cheshire Rail Trail that spans more than 30 miles and cuts diagonal across the Southern corner of New Hampshire. The gravel surface pathway journeys from Massachusetts border north through Keene and onward to Walpoleās southern out shirts.
Londonderry Rail Trail is in Southern New Hampshire. It is in the process of expanding mileage to 6 miles and connect to trail in Manchester and Derry. Rockingham Recreational Rail Trail, Portsmouth branch, the 28 mile trail begins in Manchester and goes to Raymond.
The Epping trail connects to the Fremont branch for an 18 mile journey toward Windham.
Piscataquag Trail and Goffstown Rail Trail provide 7.6 miles route from Manchesterās riverfront to Goffstown on the Piscataquog river reservoir.
The Goffstown Rail Trail is hard packed until you reach the Piscataquog Trail, which is paved.
Get out and bicycle, walk, snowshoe, cross-country ski, or volunteer to assist with the development and maintenance of one of the rail trails in the state.
Thanks go out to those dedicated volunteers that assisted in the development and maintenance of the rail trails in New Hampshire.
Phil Rose
GSW Safety and Education
Where Do YOU Ride Your Bike?
On the road, on a rail trail? Wherever you ride, is it safe and accessible? Can you get to where you want to go on your bike?
Bike-Walk Alliance of NH is the only statewide organization dedicated to improving policy, infrastructure and education for bicyclists and pedestrians in the Granite state.
As an avid cyclist, we need your voice and your support! Please subscribe to our free, bi-monthly e-newsletter by sending your email to: info@bwanh.orgĀ Ā or clicking this link.Ā You can keep up with active transportation news and events, as well as share your comments on our Blog.
Supporting BWANH is easy, just click on this link (https://bwanh.org/donate/support-bwanh/),Ā which will take you to our website. You can donate an amount you choose as a 1-time donation or make it automatically renew on an annual basis. Your contribution will help to make New Hampshire an even greater place to bike, walk and live.
BWANH appreciates your support!
Classified Ads
(All ads will be deleted after each issue unless requests are sent to renew.)
Ā Send ads to:Ā editor@gswheelers.orgĀ
~~ For sale:Ā Ā 2013 Bacchetta Giro 26 Recumbent. Red, steel frame, overall good condition, seat exc. condition, new Schwalbe Marathon tires and rear wheel, drivetrain and brakes recent, includes rear rack, Big Box, mirror. Frame one size, seat position adjusts. $700.00. Rachel Rainey, atthepond@metrocast.net
Ā 
~~ For sale: 1980 Marrinoni steel frame,Ā 56cm
…make an offerĀ Ā (603) 545 – 9745
Club Info At A Glance
Ride with GPS - Club Account
As a GSW member, you have free access to our premium Ride with GPS Club Account.
This account provides:
- Access to the program via a laptop and/or Android and iPhone devices
- Creation of your own personal space/account
- Ability to create routes and log rides
- View and download routes from the club route library
Setup:
- Go to www.RideWithGPS.com.
- Login or create a new personal account. Click on this link: http://bit.ly/2oEP3Zd to add your name to the GSW account.
- A GSW logo will appear in the lower left corner. Click on the logo to access the Club page.
For more information on Ride with GPS Club Benefits, visit:
https://ridewithgps.com/help/club-benefits.
Ride and Event Information
Rides are open to anyone interested in bicycling. Parental consent is required for those under 18.
Club rides may be on-road, off-road, invitational, charity, or weekend events. Most rides have a leader. In case of rain, rides may be cancelled or rescheduled. Check MeetUp for up-to-date ride information. If in doubt, call the ride leader.
For rides listed as Show-and-Go, leader and riders select a route and pace to accommodate the slowest rider.
Safety: Helmets are required. Riders are expected to follow traffic rules and be courteous to other riders, pedestrians, and drivers.
Member Benefits: Sign-in to have your mileage recorded and to be covered by club insurance in the event of an accident.
Be Prepared: Have your bicycle in good working order. Always carry a spare tube, tire levers, a patch kit, a pump, water, snacks, and an ID that contains medical and emergency information.
Club āMeetupā site: https://www.meetup.com/Granite-State-Wheelmen-bicycling/
Check for new rides or last-minute ride changes. The GSW Meetup site is free to join. Being a GSW Meetup member does not constitute being a paid GSW member for mileage tracking and other benefits.
Volunteer: If you do not find a ride you like, volunteer to become a ride leader. Talk to a ride coordinator on āhow-toā.
Charity Riders: You are welcome at all GSW rides. Let the ride leader know you are in training for a Charity Ride!
Terrain and Pace Guidelines
Terrain
1Ā Ā Generally flat, some grades, for beginners
2Ā Easy grades, challenging for beginners
3Ā Moderate grades, some challenge for average riders
4Ā Steep grades with some relief
Pace
LĀ –Ā Leisurely with many rest stops (< 12 mph)
M – Moderate with some rest stops (12 ā 15 mph)
B –Ā Brisk with few stops (15-18 mph)
S –Ā Steady, strenuous, rapid pace (>18 mph)
Charity & Invitational Rides
Charity and Invitational Rides are the sole responsibility of the hosting organization. The GSW has no responsibility and provides no insurance coverage including club and personal liabilities, property damage, or participant accident claims. You may have your mileage recorded for Charity & Invitational rides.
Mileage: If you attended a charity ride and a GSW ride leader was not present, submit your name, the charity ride information (date, time, location), and send to Lindsay Collins.
CHARITY RIDES
May 15 – National Brain Tumor Ride, starting in Waltham. 10 mi, 25 mi, 40 mi and 62 mi routes benefiting the National Brain Tumor Society in our quest to conquer and cure brain tumors once and for all. We have a lofty goal of having over 400 riders and raising $485,000. Start a team, or volunteer to help our riders on the route. FMI:Ā http://www.braintumorride.org.
June 4 –Ā 26th Annual Ride to End ALZ New England, a fully supported, one-day fundraising event on the beach with 14 miles of coastal riding starting and ending at Hampton Beach, NH. Whether you’re an avid cyclist or a weekend warrior, we offer a scenic, quintessential New England route for a range of riders. Choose between 30, 62, or 100 miles or ride with us virtually in your community. With each mile, participants will fuel cutting-edge research targeted to change the trajectory of Alzheimerās disease and all other dementias. FMI:Ā Ride to End Alzheimerās.
INVITATIONAL RIDES
There are currently no Invitational rides.
Weekend Events
June 12th – Ride / Picnic at Bear Brook State Park — Stay tuned, details to follow in upcoming issues of Pedal Talk. Ā
September 24th – Seacoast Century —Ā tay tuned, details to follow in upcoming issues of Pedal Talk.
Ride Leaders
Download Ride Leader Sign-in Sheet
Please be sure that all names on the sign-up sheet are printed legibly with legible mileage recorded for each name.
Submitting a Sign-in Sheet
1.Ā Ā Scan in pdf format and email to: mileage@gswheelers.org
2.Ā Ā Or, Mail to:
Lindsay Collins
PO Box 497
Newbury, NH 03255
Photo submissions will NOT be accepted.
NEW HAMPSHIREāS E-BIKE LAWS
E-bikes, also known as electric-assist bikes, are becoming more and more popular throughout the U.S. Effective as of August 18, 2019, New Hampshire has adopted the following laws regarding the use of e-bikes. (New Hampshire laws referenced: N.H. Rev. Stat. Ā§259:6, 259:27, 265:144)
MORE INFO Learn more at PeopleForBikes.org/e-bikesĀ
Ā» Blogs and webinars
Ā» E-bike laws around the country
Ā» E-bike statistics and research
Ā» Buying guide
Ā» Retailer materials
Ā» e-MTB management resources or visitĀ https://bwanh.org/e-bikes
GSW Sponsors
REMEMBER THE 10% DISCOUNT ON BICYCLE PARTS AND ACCESSORIES FOR G.S.W. MEMBERS AT MOST SPONSORING SHOPS.
PLEASE SHOW YOUR MEMBERSHIP CARD BEFORE MAKING A PURCHASE!
(“#” indicates discount allowed on cash and check sales only. ā*ā indicates no discounts allowed.)
America by Bicycle
2 Red Oak Drive, Unit A
Plaistow NH
(603) 382-1662
www.abbike.com
Belmont Wheelworks #
480 Trapelo Rd
Belmont MA
(617) 489-3577 www.wheelworks.com
Bike Barn
720 Union St
Manchester NH
(603) 668-6555
www.bikebarnusa.com
Buchikaās Ski & Sport Shop
340 South Broadway
Salem NH
(603) 89305534
www.buchika.com
Cycles Etc *
450 Second Street*
Manchester, NH
(603) 669.7993
https://www.cyclesetc.com/
288 North Broadway*
Salem, NH
(603) 890-3212
Exeter Cycles
4 Portsmouth Ave, Rt. 108
Exeter, NH 03833
(603) 778-2331
http://exetercycles.com/
Trek Bicycle
Trek Bicycle Concord
19 Triangle Park Drive
Concord, NH
(603) 225-5111
https://www.trekbikes.com/retail/concord/
Trek Bicycle Hooksett
1197 Hooksett Rd.
Hooksett, NH
(603) 644-2111
Goodale's Bicycle
Goodaleās Bike Shop
14B Broad St.
Nashua, NH
(603) 882-2111
Gus' Bike Shop
Gus’ Bike Shop
55 Lafayette Road
North Hampton, NH 03862
(603) 964-5445
https://www.gusbike.com/
Littleton Bike & Fitness
30 Cottage Street
Littleton, NH 03561
(603) 444-3437
https://littletonbike.com/
info@littletonbike.com
Pedego Electric Bikes
236 N. Broadway, Unit F
Salem, NH
(603) 458-2094
https://www.pedegoelectricbikes.com/
Rhino Bike Works
1 Foster Street
Plymouth, NH 03264
(603) 536-3919
http://rhinobikeworksnh.com/
S&W Sports
296 S.Main St.
Concord, NH
(603) 228-1441
http://www.swsports.net/
GSW affiliated associations include:
The League of American Bicyclists, the Adventure Cycling Association, and Rails to Trails Conservancy, BikeWalk Alliance of NH.
About Pedal Talk
Pedal Talk is the bimonthly newsletter of the Granite State Wheelers (GSW) – New Englandās most active recreational bicycling club.
GSW Membership
Club rides and activities are open to the public. Parental consent is required for those under 18. Become a member today!
Submissions
Send all articles to: editor@gswheelers.org with attachments in MSWord, ASCII, using IBM format or PDF.
Deadlines
The deadline for input to Pedal Talk is the first of every even numbered month. The next deadline for Pedal Talk submissions is April 1, 2021. Send ride copy to the Ride Coordinators, advertising to the Advertising Coordinator, mileage to Mileage Coordinator and other submissions to editor@gswheelers.org.
Advertising
Commercial advertising space is available. For information and advertising rates please contact Dave Topham (office@gswheelers.org)
Opinions
Opinions in this newsletter are those of theĀ contributors and not necessarily those of the Granite State Wheelers.
Pedal Talk Staff
Editor
Laurie Daley
editor@gswheelers.org
Production Staff
Mark St. Denis
memberships@gswheelers.org
Ride Schedules
Marguerite Orazi
Patty Tompkins
rides@gswheelers.org
Charity & Invitational Rides
Laurie Daley
charity@gswheelers.org
Mileage
Lindsay Collins
mileage@gswheelers.org
Classified Ads
Pedal Talk Editor
editor@gswheelers.org
Advertising
Dave Topham
office@gswheelers.org
Marketing & Communications
OPEN
marketing@gswheelers.org
GSW Board Members
OFFICERS
President
Dave Topham
president@gswheelers.org
Vice President
Bill Hayne
vp@gswheelers.org
Recording Secretary
Patty Tompkins
secretary@gswheelers.org
Social Secretary
Becca “Hiker” Munroe
social@gswheelers.org
Treasurer
Leslie Thompson
treasurer@gswheelers.org
STANDING COMMITTEES
Banquet & Awards Coordinators:
Lisa Cassell & Lyla Oneil
banquets@gswheelers.org
Charity & Invitational Coordinator:
Laurie Daley
charity@gswheelers.org
Mileage Coordinator:
Lindsay Collins
mileage@gswheelers.org
Memberships:
Mark St. Denis
memberships@gswheelers.org
GSW Office:
Dave Topham & Judi Hull
office@gswheelers.org
Newsletter Editor:
Laurie Daley
editor@gswheelers.org
Newsletter Mailing:
Mark St. Denis
memberships@gswheelers.org
Merchandising Chairperson:
Bill Hayne
merchandise@gswheelers.org
Marketing & Communications:
OPEN
marketing@gswheelers.org
Rides Coordinator:
Patty Tompkins
rides@gswheelers.org
Safety & Education Coordinator:
Phil Rose
safety@gswheelers.org
Seacoast Century Committee Chair:
Mark MacKenzie
seacoastcentury@gswheelers.org
Seacoast Century Volunteer Coordinator:
Paula Fines
sccvolunteer@gswheelers.org
Web Publishers:
Aaron & Kimmy Ellinwood
webpublishers@gswheelers.org
Weekend Events:
Marguerite Orazi
weekends@gswheelers.org
Contact
