PedalĀ Talk
The Newsletter of Granite State Wheelers
September / October 2022 Volume 50, Issue 5
* 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
āCooler days for cycling ahead — stay safe!ā
After some very hot summer days we can look forward to cooler weather as our primary cycling year slows down. Weāve had a lot of rides in the seacoast, Concord, and New London areas with a good mix of on-road and gravel rides plus occasionally on rail trails. Whatever your choice, we hope everyone can find interesting rides, meet friendly people, and explore places often not seen by car. With over 51 years of experience and currently about 470 members (not counting the free MeetUp members) we hope to keep the wheels rolling into 2023 and beyond. And this is where you come in!
October is election month for our 2023 Board Officers and Committee Chairs. Please see the draft candidates list below noting the open slots. Any GSW member in good standing can run for any position and we need ānew bloodā to keep the GSW moving ahead. If you are interested and can spare a few hours a month, just send your name and desired position to me prior to October 1. An on-line secure ballot will be sent to every active member for your vote by October 10. Results will be announced in a special MailChimp email blast and noted in the November-December Pedal Talk.Ā All terms run for one year in-sync with the calendar year so the newly-elected personnel have a couple months to ālearn the ropesā before being āon the saddleā come January first. Some positions are more critical and time-sensitive than others but they all make a big difference in keeping the GSW functional and fun for members. How about you ā can you serve on the Board for 2023? Let me know!
Read More
As I write this article in mid-August, our 48th Seacoast Century on September 24 is around the corner. We āmaxed outā the 1,200 registration limit over a month ago and hope you got in under the wire ā no āDay Ofā registrations. A lot has changed since I helped to start this event in 1973 from the empty parking lot at Wallis Sands State Park. There were no sag wagons, rest stops, route markings, or cell phones ā just a highway map and fig bars in a handlebar bag for fuel on the road. It was so much fun cycling 100 miles that a couple years later we made the ride an āInvitationalā charging a small fee for limited services. Over the following seasons I was the event coordinator for 34 years as it grew to become one of the most popular recreational rides in New England. We hope to keep it going in future years but that depends on volunteers, safe cycling by all, and accommodations to handle our needs. The 2022 event leadership team thanks everyone for their support. Event profits are given to the NH bike-ped community in the form of competitive grants. $25,000 was awarded in 2020 and another $25,000 in 2022, each grant round to ten recipients. Letās keep the event going by volunteering to serve on the Board in some position as this is a team effort. These days Iām pushing a lot more paperwork than pedals ā but not pushing up daisies quite yet.Ā 
We are always looking for additional ride leaders and new areas to explore. If you donāt see a ride listed in Pedal Talk or on MeetUp of interest, as a member you can post your own favorite ride and others will join you! See the Ride Leader Guidelines on our website āMembers Onlyā page or contact Patty Tompkins at rides@gswheelers.org for more info and having your rides posted.
Meanwhile, best wishes to all for more great cycling in 2022 and stay safe! Feel free to contact me with your suggestions to make the GSW better for everyone. .
Dave Topham
president@gswheelers.org
603.898.5479
Co-Founder, 1971
GSW Announcements
Candidates for GSW 2023 Officer and Committee Positions
Effective Ā August 23, 2022
Election results to be announced via email on October 10, 2022.Ā The final list of candidates will appear in a secure e-ballot sent to all members in the first week of October.
All positions are open for any GSW member wishing to devote a little time and valuable skills to help the club move ahead in 2023. About five hours a month can make a big difference!
To volunteer for ANY position submit your name before October 1 to Office@GSWheelers.org.
Position____________________________Candidates
Officers:
PresidentĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā (open)
Vice PresidentĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Bill Hayne
Recording SecretaryĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā (open)
Social SecretaryĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Becca Munroe
TreasurerĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Dave Topham
Standing Committees:
Charity & Invitational CoordinatorĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Laurie Daley
Club Mileage and Commuting MileageĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Lindsay Collins
Events CoordinatorĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā (open)
GSW OfficeĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Dave Topham
Memberships ChairĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā (open)
Newsletter EditorĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Laurie Daley
Newsletter eMailingĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā (open)
Merchandising ChairpersonĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Bill Hayne
Marketing CoordinatorĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā (open)
Rides CoordinatorĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Patty Tompkins
Safety & Education CoordinatorĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Phil Rose
Seacoast Century DirectorĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Mark MacKenzieĀ *
Seacoast Century Volunteer CoordinatorĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā (open)
Web PublishersĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Kimmy & Aaron Ellinwood
Weekend EventsĀ Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Ā Marguerite Orazi
Note:Ā The asterisk ā*ā indicates the incumbent but candidacy for 2023 not confirmed at press time.
Highlighted names = responded for 2023 candidates listing in Pedal Talk.
Seacoast Century Volunteers needed!
This yearās Seacoast is BIG with 1200+ registered riders plus maybe 50+ more volunteers who will ride for free. It is also our first full featured (one day) ride since COVID ā complete with Friday registration, Saturday registration, Merchandise sales, Parking at Hampton Beach and remotely ā so we have a lot of volunteer slots to fill.
As is often the case, the biggest holes remain for Hampton Beach (refreshments, registration and sags) and Fort McClary (refreshments and sags). If you have not volunteered yet or can offer help on the day of the event, please consider volunteering (bring your friends too!). Contact Paula Fines at sccvolunter@gswheelers.org or sign up directly at https://signup.com/group/727013057354232010
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.
Save the date!
Remember to check with individual ride leaders and event coordinators for all rides and events!
September 24 - Seacoast Century
The planning for this yearās Seacoast Century is well underway. We have a great team of experienced volunteers who have devoted their time to making this a great success.
The key to that is a solid group of volunteers. Paula and Jim Fine have agreed to take on this responsibility. Please reach out to them at sccvolunteer@gswheelers.org
October 2 - Cider FEST
Cider FEST!
Sunday, October 2nd
Join us for a fall ride or just pick apples, help make fresh apple cider and enjoy a BBQ.
Come rain or shine.
BIKE – Bike rides start from Jeff & Donna’s place, 181 Leavitt Road in Belmont, NH at 10am. We’ll have Cue sheets for several routes. Plan to stay after the ride for a BBQ & press cider and pick apples to take home. Families are welcome (they can pick while you ride!).
PICK&PRESS& BBQ ā If you just want to pick apples and make cider, come between 10am and 2pm. We’ll take turns operating the hand crank cider press. We’ll start up the grill and the music around 1PM. Bring an instrument or plan to sing along to blue grass music led by our wonderful neighbors. Bring plastic sacks for apples and a clean milk jug & cap for cider. If you’re staying for the BBQ, bring a salad, dessert or a side dish and something to grill. Our apple varieties are Northern Spy, Delicious, Cortland & Macintosh . We don’t spray, so don’t expect āperfectā apples.
Directions to 181 Leavitt Rd. in Belmont, NH: From the south, take Highway 106 north toward Laconia and turn right (east) on Leavitt Road. Follow Leavitt Road about a mile and watch for the mail box marked 181 on the left. Turn north into the driveway across from the Smith Orchard. It is about 850 feet back to the red house. From the north, take 106 or 107 to Leavitt Road in Belmont. We are right across the road from the Smith U-Pick Orchard.
RSVP: Email dhepp3@gmail.com or call (414) 258-3287.
Lee Berard – Goffstown, NH
Jamie Bloyd – Manchester, NH
Robert Conti – Nashua, NH
Steven Duquette – Sandown, NH
Cole Eby – Concord, NH
Caroline Elbaum – Concord, NH
Stuart Falls – Goffstown, NH
Frank Fermino – Exeter, NH
Jean Kluk – Washington, NH
Michael Kluk – Washington, NH
John LeBow – Candia, NH
Charmaine Martin – Grantham, NH
Christopher Martin – Grantham, NH
Eric Monheim – Southborough, MA
Linda Quebec – Nashua, NH
Nancy Rollins – New London, NH
Patrick Toomey – South Berwick, ME
Robin Westfield – Nashua, NH
GO FOR THE GEAR!
Support the Granite State
Wheelers
2022 Seacoast Century
September 24, 2022!
Seacoast Century Update
We sold the event out!!
This year and with nearly 2 months to go we closed the registration at the 1200 riders.
It is clear we could have passed that number but given the amount of work and staff requirements, we thought it best.
This is the first year we will have off-site parking with close to 500 people having to park about a half mile away. We will do our best to make sure this goes smoothly.
We have faced some challenges with the State Parks this year and while the staff has been great to work with it is clear things are changing resulting in significant cost increases for the event. Many people donāt know the Parks are self-funded in NH and need to generate their own revenues through fees.Ā One example of this change for us is in the parking arrangements and costs which have drifted up over the last couple of years. We will pay the state over six thousand dollars to park at the venue and are limited to 600 spaces. Given the limitation, the club had to find additional parking in the area for nearly 500 cars a half mile from the event at a cost of almost five thousand dollars.
Thanks to Jim and Paula Fines for the hard work in finding off-site parking for the event.
In addition to the parking and fees, the club has seen the insurance cost for the riders increase considerably and it is trending up. Police protection is also a major cost for the club, and we are seeing increases in this area as well. The average cost of a detail officer is in the range of eighty dollars an hour with a cruiser.
All these costs will ultimately be passed on to the riders and the question for the club is how much is too much? My sense is that given the popularity of the event we have a fair amount of room in terms of pricing.
Food is back this year and we have around 250 people who have signed up for the after-meal. We have an experienced caterer from the seacoast who I am confident will do a good job.
Sean Buckley a local area musician will be providing the music. He plays on the beach, is well known, and is lots of fun.
What we were not able to work out was the beer to go along with the after-party. State regulations, insurance issues, and frankly a reluctance by the club became too much to overcome in the timeframe. We however have an alternative thanks to Athletic Brewing a Connecticut producer of ānon-alcoholicā beer who is going to be passing out the product free of charge to the riders.Ā Athletic Brewing Company
A few of us had a chance to sample the product at the Bike and Beers event and think the riders will enjoy the option.
The permits and related approvals at the time of this writing are moving along and big shout out to Donna Hepp for her help in working with the towns.
Thanks also to Dave Topham, Bill Kennedy, Paula and Jim Fines and Bill Haynes for all the work they did laying out the various routes. It is going to be a spectacular ride.
Our t-shirt design departs a bit from the past and features one of the historic properties along the route the Wentworth Hotel built in 1874. Wentworth Hotel New Castle
It is at that point riders dismount and walk across the bridge and get to enjoy a wonderful view of the hotel and adjacent harbor.
Peanut butter and jelly sandwiches are back thanks to our rest stop coordinator Patty Tompkins and her crew who move hundreds of pounds of gear and food products for the event.
Volunteers needed. Let me repeat Volunteers needed.
One of the toughest parts of this ride is the staffing of the event. Sixty to eighty volunteers are needed to support all the activities and Paula and Jim Fines have taken that task on for the club. We sometimes forget what a big responsibility as a club we must properly staff the event. People are coming here from all over the east coast, the Midwest, and as far away as Hawaii. The club has the task of making sure this is an enjoyable and safe event and we canāt do this without the help of the members.
Please give us a few hours that day. Your t-shirt is free, and we will waive the registration fees plus you will have fun and meet new people who share your love of cycling. Here is the link Volunteer Sign Up
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
āĀ Updated Ride Leader and Ride Guidelines, download the file here.
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.
GSW Mileage Submission and Pedal Talk Publication Dates
Mileage Reporting is by Calendar Year
Pedal Talk Issue
Jan/Feb
Mar/Apr
May/Jun
Jul/Aug
Sep/Oct
Nov/Dec
Mileage Report Includes
Jan ā Nov
Prior yearJan ā Dec
Prior yearJan ā Mar
Jan ā May
Jan ā Jul
Jan ā Sep
Ride Sheet Submission
DeadlineDecember 1
Prior yearFebruary 1
April 1
June 1
August 1
October 1
Commuter Mileage
| Total | 1,613 miles |
|---|---|
| 562 | Lee Newcomb |
| 347 | Jim Sullivan |
| 342 | Cathy Yeager |
| 307 | Eugene Smith |
| 33 | Marcel Daudelin |
| 8 | Lindsay Collins |
| 8 | Ruth Collins |
| 6 | Chris Clasby |
On Road Mileage
| Total | 26,566 miles |
|---|---|
| 1035 | Melissa O'Brien |
| 930 | Tony Verderame |
| 876 | Jean Manning |
| 785 | Lindsay Collins |
| 771 | Natalie McMahon |
| 768 | Ben Parker |
| 710 | Patty Tompkins |
| 701 | Jim Hatch |
| 589 | Ruth Collins |
| 569 | Marcel Daudelin |
| 568 | Dan Conery |
| 562 | Cathy Yeager |
| 545 | Jim Sullivan |
| 544 | Lynda Lubelczyk |
| 543 | David Ross |
| 497 | Amy Dyment |
| 449 | Bernie Fournier |
| 434 | Chris Hallowell |
| 430 | Judy Zimmerman-Reisch |
| 411 | Larry Morgan |
| 395 | Ken Wadland |
| 389 | Daryl Boire |
| 385 | Eugene Smith |
| 379 | Tony Giannechini |
| 377 | Mike Cardarelli |
| 370 | Anne Forzley |
| 348 | Mitchel van Berlo |
| 335 | Dave Holomander |
| 327 | Kevin Clarke |
| 323 | Bruce Dyke |
| 312 | John Straight |
| 306 | Bobby Dinterman |
| 302 | Kendall Buck |
| 301 | Bert Jordan |
| 298 | Rose Verderame |
| 296 | Brenda Knight |
| 285 | John Reisch |
| 273 | Chris Demers |
| 272 | Michael Claus |
| 269 | Lyla Oneil |
| 263 | Joe Vandette |
| 263 | Stuart Falls |
| 261 | John Kellaway |
| 258 | Allan Clay |
| 256 | Bill Manning |
| 247 | Lynn Ainsworth |
| 246 | David Cheng |
| 241 | Will Corbett |
| 238 | Laurie Gordon |
| 229 | Storm Connors |
| 229 | Anne Gwynne |
| 220 | Christina Cook |
| 201 | Ernie Jeffrey |
| 201 | Stephen Fox |
| 200 | Fred Ratcliffe |
| 198 | Darrell Hamilton |
| 193 | Jim Knight |
| 186 | Lisa Cassell |
| 179 | Linda Howes |
| 179 | Jeanne Bailey |
| 176 | Ralf Hilber |
| 163 | Dave Coughlin |
| 159 | Stephanie Eno |
| 150 | Carl Gurtman |
| 146 | Ben Reynolds |
| 143 | Patty Dow |
| 141 | Kay Sachs |
| 137 | Jon Verderame |
| 130 | Dave Harris |
| 126 | Peggy Kehew |
| 123 | Michelle Ruby |
| 115 | Patty Anderson |
| 113 | Don Lane |
| 109 | Craig Fournier |
| 106 | Brad Borbridge |
| 105 | Walter Slozak |
| 95 | Joy Kubit |
| 86 | Bob Conti |
| 77 | Joe Kubit |
| 75 | Mary O'Connor |
| 75 | Diane Orecchio |
| 74 | Zack Smith |
| 68 | John Hoff |
| 59 | Edward Orecchio |
| 55 | Dean Murray |
| 51 | Eric Ahlquist |
| 49 | Jackie Atherley |
| 48 | Paula Fines |
| 48 | Jim Fines |
| 46 | Steven Duquette |
| 45 | Tom Bartolino |
| 43 | Will Brown |
| 42 | Paul Garret |
| 41 | Wayne MacKenzie |
| 40 | Brian Lewis |
| 39 | Jeff McKillip |
| 36 | John Stevens |
| 36 | Ben Maine |
| 31 | Steve Wilson |
| 30 | Jay Godfrey |
| 29 | Kathy McMillan |
| 29 | Dennis Geisler |
| 29 | Al Jones |
| 29 | Peter Neil |
| 28 | Renee Rees |
| 27 | Rebecca Dowd |
| 27 | Judy Buck |
| 27 | Jerry Shinn |
| 27 | Lou Springer |
| 27 | Mark MacKenzie |
| 26 | Chris Clasby |
| 25 | Leon LaFreniere |
| 24 | Melissa Roberts |
| 24 | Kimmy Ellinwood |
| 24 | Aaron Ellinwood |
| 22 | Priscilla Merrill |
| 22 | William Kennedy |
| 22 | Craig Fritz |
| 22 | Jim LaJeunesse |
| 22 | Anne Bartolino |
| 22 | Frank Fermino |
| 22 | Sue Trask |
| 21 | Liz Burgess |
| 20 | Leigh Ann Dyle |
| 18 | Jeff Hale |
| 18 | Jamie Bloyd |
| 18 | Brenda Cannon |
| 18 | Dick Wulf |
| 14 | Patty Benjamin |
| 14 | Donna Hepp |
| 1 | Ken Leibold |
Rail Trail
| Total | 400 miles |
|---|---|
| 76 | Bob Conti |
| 63 | Ken Leibold |
| 25 |
Lee Newcomb |
| 25 | Kathy Marchocki |
| 25 | Paul Susca |
| 20 | Alice Cheng |
| 20 | David Cheng |
| 20 | Lisa Cassell |
| 18 | Judy Zimmerman-Reisch |
| 18 | John Resich |
| 18 | Edward Orecchio |
| 18 | Kendall Buck |
| 18 | Diane Orecchioo |
| 18 | Lindsay Collins |
| 18 | Ruth Collins |
Gravel
| Total | 80 miles |
|---|---|
| 40 | Melissa O'Brien |
| 30 | Tony Verderame |
| 10 | Pam Geiger |
Mountain
| Total | 0 miles |
|---|---|
| 0 |
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)
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Donāt cross the stop line when the traffi c signal is red. (RSA 265:10-III a&d)
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Take left turn from the outermost left turn lane when multiple left turn lanes are available. (RSA 265:42-II)
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Stop for pedestrians in all crosswalks. Donāt pass vehicles stopped at a crosswalk. (RSA 265:35-I&IV)
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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.
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Do not operate on sidewalks (RSA 265:26-a), or ride the wrong way on one-way streets (RSA 265:23-II).
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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).
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Helmets are required by law for cyclists less than 16 years of age. (RSA 265:144-X).
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Ride on the right side of the road, with traffic. (RSA 265:16-II) Riding against traffic is illegal.
Safety Education
Bicycle Safety
When a crash occurs between a vehicle and a bicyclist, it is the cyclist who is most likely to be injured. A large percentage of crashes can be avoided if motorists and cyclists follow the rules of the road and watch out for each other. There are two main types of crashes, falls and the ones with automobiles.
By law, bicycles on the roadway are vehicles with the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicles. Bicycle deaths are highest during the months between June and September. Nearly three quarters of all bicyclist deaths occur in urban areas.
Be prepared before heading out on your bicycle trip. Every bicycle rider should wear a helmet and focus on making sure that it is properly fitting on your head. Wearing a helmet and bright clothing during the daytime hours helps in decreasing the risk of crashes as well as a front and rear light when riding at night.
Read More
Ride a bicycle that fits you and not too big as it is harder to control the bicycle.
Ride a bicycle that works properly and make sure the brakes work.
Plan your ride and choose routes with less traffic, slower speeds, bike lanes or bike paths.
Ride with the flow in the same direction as traffic and signal before changing a lane or turning.
Avoid sidewalk riding and watch out for parked vehicle driver doors that open suddenly.
Drink plenty of fluids before, during, and after riding to stay hydrated.
Stay safe whether on the road or off road on a trail.
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 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
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
September 10th – Pedaling for Payson [P4P],Ā Elm Brook Recreation Area, Hopkinton, NH.Ā For all ride details and to learn about the Payson Center for Cancer Care and how to sign up and raise funds, please visit: pedalingforpayson.org. Rides offered (various distances): on-road, off-road, mountain, gravel. There will be great after-ride nourishment and festivities and awards. By the way, GSW’s Chris Hallowell’s team is Peppers Pedallers! He would certainly appreciate your contribution/support!
September 18th –Ā 34th Annual Cycle for Shelter to benefit Emmaus,Ā at Northern Essex Community College. Haverhill, MA. Ride to defeat homelessness! Cyclists can ride 15, 25, 40, 62, or 100-miles along the Merrimack River up to the New Hampshire seacoast (62 and 100-mile ride). Post-ride cookout and music. Proceeds from this event benefit Emmaus, a non-profit housing and human services organization in Haverhill that helps homeless and formerly homeless families and single adults rebuild their lives through shelter, permanent housing, and comprehensive supportive services.
Join the fun and ride in the longest-running charity rides in Northeastern Massachusetts. Low fundraising minimum!
This year, we invite families with children to sign up for the 15-mile ride. This āFamily Fun Rideā features an easier, local route and a family team fundraising minimum.
Please note this ride will be weather-permitting. For those who wish to participate remotely, we invite you to participate in our virtual option which runs from July 1-September 18.
For more information, please call (978) 241-3425 or email cycle@emmausinc.org or visit www.emmausinc.org or http://events.emmausinc.org/cycle22
October 15th –Ā Ā Ride to the Farm, Saturday, 9:30 AM Come join us for a beautiful fall ride to the Farmsteads of NE at Redberry Farm in Epping, NH. There are a few hills on this ride, but feel free to take your time. Cue sheets, sag support, and food will be provided. Farmsteads of NE is a non-profit, human services agency that developed an intentional farming community that caters to the needs of individuals who have autism and other developmental disabilities. Farmers are provided with meaningful work on the farm as well as in the community. Farmsteads of NE has two locations; the main site in Hillsborough has day and residential services with a day service program in Epping, NH. Development is in progress for residential services in Epping!
You may meet Erica, a former member of the Granite State Wheelmen. She lives and works on the farm (Hillsborough) and is quite an athlete.
Donations for the farm will be accepted at the ride (checks can be made out to Farmsteads of NE). Funds collected will enable further services and development of programs for the individuals served at the farm. All donors will be entered into a raffle. (Multiple items ā restaurant/amazon gift cards, etc.) Check out the web site: www.farmsteads.ne.org
Directions: N. Salem Village Plaza ā 15 Ermer Road (corner of 111/Ermer Road.) Route 93 ā exit 3 to Route 111E to junction of Ermer Rd. Plaza will be on your right.
Distance: 50 miles round- trip. Ride at your own pace.
Ride Leader: Jean Manning, Jeanspeech@aol.com. Please contact me if you plan to attend or have any questions.
INVITATIONAL RIDES
August 20-August 29, 2023 – A Gravel Adventure in Northern Vermont (Bicycle Adventure Club). Vermont is fast becoming a destination for cyclists seeking “gravel” riding. Join the leaders, Jeff and Hilary Warner, longtime past GSW members, on this mixed surface tour, predominantly on the quiet gravel/dirt roads of northern Vermont. Designed for fit, adventurous cyclists, this tour features spectacular scenery, very pleasant dirt roads, and minimal traffic (once we get out of Burlington). For more information, visit the Bicycle Adventure Club website.
Weekend Events
September 24, 2022 Seacoast Century
The planning for this yearās Seacoast Century is well underway. We have a great team of experienced volunteers who have devoted their time to making this a great success. The key to that is a solid group of volunteers. Paula and Jim Fine have agreed to take on this responsibility. Please reach out to them at sccvolunteer@gswheelers.org
February 3 – 5, 2023, 28th Annual Craftsbury Outdoor Center Weekend
Held at the Craftsbury Outdoor Center, Craftsbury Common, VT.Ā We had a great weekend in 2022 even with COVID restrictions. 2023 should be even better!Ā This family-friendly trip offers cross-country skiing for all abilities, plus all kinds of winter fun! Lodging, x-c ski passes, and all meals included. A few rooms are also available to stay an extra night and depart on Monday, 2/6 Mark your calendar and join us for a fun weekend! As weāve done in years past, there will be a two night option at the Highlands Lodge. Contact Jim and Paula Fines at (978) 764-9868 or pfines@comcast.net for more information or to hold a room. Space is limited so get on the list.
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/
Goodale's / 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 / Trek 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 October 1, 2022. 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
OPEN
treasurer@gswheelers.org
STANDING COMMITTEES
Social Events Committee:
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 e-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:
MarkĀ 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
