[parts]

Anyone have the down low on biking in Arizona? I'm going to be in Mesa/ Phoenix for a couple months, starting next week, and want to bring the right bike (mtb or road) with me, preferably my mtb. What type of terrain in around Phoenix (within a few hours driving is cool too)?

The main thing I'm trying to figure out is if I should throw a big ring on my hard tail- here in North Vancouver a big ring isn't required equipment- because it sucks spinning out on the less steep terrain.

Thanks.

 

[Dartman]

I just returned from a couple months out there myself. There's lots of kicka$$ riding to be had there. If you like extremely technical, they got it. If you like smooth and fast, they got that too. I had my Intense Tracer there with me and had just put a Fox Talas fork on it and it handled everything well. I replaced the big ring with a bash guard which was good for rock clearance. Road cycling is a big deal out there too and lot's of bikeways thanks to a riding mayor they had once but with so much great desert dirt take your mtb.

When you get out there get Cosmic Rays Arizona Ride Guide book and have fun getting lost.

Pics from Desert Classic and National Trails on South Mountain...

http://www.pbase.com/mrdart/phoenix_south_mountain

Pics from McDowell Mountain Park competitive track...

http://www.pbase.com/mrdart/sonoran_desert

Pics from Sedona...

http://www.pbase.com/mrdart/sedona

You have to treat yourself to at least a day trip to Sedona.

Mike

 

[parts]

Sweet. Thanks for the info & pics.

 

[Heidi]

He's right, I've ridden a ton in that area and there is a lot of fun stuff. Watch out for the cacti!

 

[Dartman]

Oh and watch out for rattlesnakes. I saw a post on Mtbr where there were more than a few sighted at Estrella mtn park. I didn't see any when I was there but apparently they've come out of hibernation.

Mike

 

[Echo]

Oh and watch out for rattlesnakes.

And jumping chollos