Arkansas Bicycle Club Blogs

October 2024 meeting

James Britt — Sat, 12 Oct 2024 19:40:32 GMT

We will have a dinner meeting at Homer's Kitchen Table on Rodney Parham in Little Rock, Wed, Oct. 16, 6pm in the main dining area.

2020 Ride around Lake Greeson

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 16:52:59 GMT

It is about time to make our trip around Lake Greeson. We are scheduled to start on Friday, February 21, 2020 and finish on Sunday the 23rd. As everyone knows, the weather in February can act up to cause a date change, but it worked out well last year to make that change.

We are adding a motel option this year which changes the route slightly.

We will start at the Glenwood Country Club at 11:00 AM, the same as last year. The first stop will be in 12 miles on US Hwy 70 West at Kirby for lunch. There are now two cafes in Kirby, so you will have a choice.

We will then proceed on Hwy 27 South for 14 miles to Murfreesboro for our first overnight. As I said, there will be an option to stay in a motel or camping. There are a few motels, but my choice will be the Queen of Diamond Inn. Camping is available .7 miles from the town square at the Murfreesboro RV Park or further out at the State Park. There are a number of restaurants available.

Saturday we will have a late breakfast and leave mid morning for the 32 mile ride to Daisy, Arkansas. We will go out Muddy Fork Road (13th Street) through Nathan (9 miles) and on the Hwy 369 (4.5 miles) where we will turn right toward New Hope (8.7 miles). Turn right on Hwy 70 East for 9 miles to Daisy, AR. This ride does not have any big climbs, but there are many steep hills.

There is a small store at New Hope for any last minute supplies or a bite to eat.

Our second overnight will be in Daisy. There is a motel with a number of rooms. At the State Park there are two Yurts available at this time. That can change at any time. Also camping is available at the State Park.

My plan is to drive my RV to Daisy State Park on Thursday so that we have it on Saturday night. We can either grill our own meals at the RV or we can take the whole crew to a cafe in Kirby or Glenwood. We will determine that on the trip.

The trip from Daisy to Glenwood on Sunday is about 18 miles. There is a restaurant where we ate lunch on the finishing day last year and we will probably do that again this year.

Please add a post to this blog or contact me if you have any questions.

2019 BRAA - starting point etc.

Mon, 25 Mar 2019 13:59:07 GMT

We are less than a week from the start of the 2019 BRAA.

Our starting point is in front of an abandoned Wal-Mart in Brinkley, AR which is located beside a Kroger grocery store. The address for the Kroger store is 1421 Pinecrest Street, Brinkley, AR 72021. This is very close to Interstate 40.

Our starting time is 11:00 AM, Sunday, March 31, 2019. Give or take as needed.

There are some nationally known motels in Brinkley, but I am not familiar with them or what condition you would find them. I do know there is a fairly new Holiday Inn Express in Forrest City, AR, which is 28 miles from Brinkley.

Since it is Sunday there are very few choices for eating establishments on our route, so each rider should plan accordingly. We will stop at a cafe at mid-morning on Monday.

Call me with any questions: John Linck 501-231-9350

2019 BRAA update

Tue, 12 Mar 2019 14:37:05 GMT

On March 11, 2019 I drove much of the proposed route for the 2019 BRAA, along with the assistance of Kenny Gober. I think this will be a fun BRAA, even though it might be more challenging that I originally thought.

The roads are not optimal for the first day, but we can manage. Rumble strips will cause us to ride in the lane more than I wanted, but we can make it work. We will end the day with some climbing up Crowley's Ridge. Also, with the first day being Sunday, our cafe choices are almost none.

The second day will be similar to the first, but we will find some better traveling choices. There will be more hills than you would think for Eastern Arkansas, but not that bad.

The third day will be a challenge. Mostly gravel roads with a few steep climbs. The scenery is great. This is a very short day in miles, but if we take our time on the gravel and really take in the great views and enjoy the National Forest, it will be a great day.

The fourth day will be our longest. We will need to get rolling that morning to make it to the cafe in Elaine. About 50 miles total.

The fifth day is all flat with mostly good shoulders on the main road. We will most likely end up at a motel this night.

The sixth day is a flat 20 miles back to our cars after a good breakfast in Clarendon.

Due to the area we are traveling we will need to prepare more meals in camp than usual, but there are grocery stores available to purchase food to prepare.

We have arranged, with the help of a friend that works in a bank at Brinkley, to park our cars are an old Walmart parking lot which is next door to a Kroger store. Also, Pennie, our friend, did contact the Brinkley Police Department and they agreed to patrol our vehicles each night.

Please contact me if you have any questions.

John LInck 501-231-9350 jelmarine@aol.com

2019 Bike Ride Around Arkansas (BRAA)

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 15:56:21 GMT

The Arkansas Bicycle Club holds a self contained ride each spring around a selected area of the state. The only requirement of a rider is to join the club, which is $25.00 per year. Each rider is responsible for their own meals and camping fee or an occasional motel charge. For those not familiar with the term "self contained" it means a rider will carry their camping equipment and clothing on their bike ( I actually ride a trike), and there is no sag vehicle. We are on our own.

An exact route is not yet set, but we seldom stick with a set route anyway. This year we plan to tour East Central Arkansas. The start will be in Brinkley, which is a town on Interstate 40 about mid-way between Little Rock and Memphis, TN. Most days we will travel around 40 miles with one shorter day, but the shorter day will include a few miles of a dirt road. This is basically a flat tour, but it does take us over Crowley's Ridge a few times which does require some climbing.

The current working route will include Village Creek and Mississippi River State Park. One night will be in Helena-West Helena at a private campsite. Another night will be spent at the starting point for the Delta Heritage trail with the final night at a campsite in Clarendon. As stated previously, this is subject to change during the tour.

There is some suggested reading prior to the tour. This route will include areas rich in history. Natural events of interest would be the New Madrid Earthquakes of 1811-1812 and the flood of 1927. Also there is the starting point for surveying the Louisiana Purchase. Surprisingly, this point in in a swamp, which we plan to visit. Nathan Bedford Forrest was a general in the Confederate army. After the war he was instrumental in building the railroad tracks from Memphis to Little Rock. Forrest City is named after him. And then there is the tragedy that occurred in Elaine, AR where we plan to have lunch on this tour. That tragedy was a race riot in 1919 that resulted in the death of an unknown number of people, possibly in the hundreds.

Originally we planned to visit Memphis on this tour, but the Mississippi River decided against that. The entry to the bridge is in a low lying area on the Arkansas side which is flooded now and the prediction is that it will be flooded at the time of this tour ride.

Some nights there will be a choice of preparing the evening meal at the campsite or riding to a nearby cafe. However, at least two of the nights this choice will not be available, so plan to prepare your meal in the campsite, especially the first two nights.

This is not a commercial tour. This is just a group of people that like to ride self contained for a week.

John Linck 501-231-9350 jelmarine@aol.com

Lake Greeson Ride - 2019 is complete

Fri, 01 Mar 2019 18:05:21 GMT

After 12 years of the same route around Lake Ouachita each February I was a little nervous about making the change to Lake Greeson. The Lake Ouachita ride was definitely a success - over and over. Why change success? Traffic was getting worse and worse.

We pedaled away from the Glenwood Country Club at 11:00 on Sunday, February 23, 2019 with our first stop 11 miles away at Kirby, AR on Hwy 70. Our group consisted of 12 riders ready for three days of riding and two nights of camping. Even though this was a Sunday morning, there was considerable traffic. The wide shoulder on Hwy 70 made the stream of cars and trucks a mute point. The rolling hills on this part of the route seemed to be a challenge, but later on we found this was actually not all that bad.

We had lunch at the cafe in Kirby. The food was very good, but the ladies were a bit overwhelmed by a bunch of hungry cyclist in addition to their normal Sunday lunch crowd. We had plenty of time, but all was well.

Kenny Gober and I had stayed at a motel in Glenwood the previous night. We had purchased a couple steaks to grill over a campfire during our first camping night. As we were nearing Kirby we discovered the steaks were still in the refrigerator at the motel, 9 miles back in Glenwood. Luckily we were successful in purchasing the last two steaks at the grocery store/general store across the road from the cafe.

Upon leaving Kirby on Hwy 27 there were a number of hills to climb before we turned on a dirt road that took us to Laurel Creek Campground on Lake Greeson. Four miles of gravel, dirt and mud were interesting but not a problem for this group. No crashes reported. The campground is primitive with no water or electricity. However, the vault toilets were clean and well supplied and the picnic tables were in good condition.

That night everyone prepared their own meals and then enjoyed a campfire, which was needed with a cold night falling upon us. And cold it was. The water on our table was frozen the next morning. Everyone survived and was ready to travel the next morning.

There was a warning that the middle day was going to be the hard travel day. It was just that, but also scenic and enjoyable. Of course the first part of the trip was getting back to pavement. There was one flat which is a great record for a total of 8 miles of dirt road with gravel. Then came around 10 miles of hilly road, but once again good shoulders.

Our first stop of the day was at a cafe in Murfreesboro. Once again the food was great, and we had a good hard working waitress that kept things moving. This was a very good lunch experience on the road. Unfortunately, due to being a witness in a trial the next day, we had to bid farewell to Jim Britt after the meal. He pedaled back toward Glenwood as we went on toward Daisy.

There were a few new riders to our group, which we always like to have. As this day kept going the new riders were becoming settled and the group was becoming a nice cohesive set of riders. This always makes the traveling enjoyable.

The afternoon scenery was great. The traffic was very light. The weather was quite tolerable. The steep, but fairly short, hills kept coming and coming. We did get occasional breaks, especially with a stop at the community of Nathan where a small store was open. But, the hills kept coming. I was getting tired, and it appeared I was not alone. We turned on Hwy 279 with about six miles left to New Hope where we could get some rest at a store, where I did down some chocolate milk and a bar.

We traveled the last nine miles back on Hwy 70 with the good shoulders and some nice scenery of the lake. A little after 4:00 PM we arrived at Daisy State Park where the tents were thrown up and the showers started. It was nice to clean up with a hot shower and then fix a hot meal. I think I stayed up until almost 9:00 PM before making my way into the tent and the warm sleeping bag. The temperature did stay above freezing for the night.

The third morning was warmer, so preparing for the final ride was easier. The group was ready to go by 9:00 AM. We pedaled the 6 miles or so to Kirby where we took a short break and then started the final 10 miles to Glenwood. We crossed the bridge over the Caddo River and then up a slight hill to the Fish Net cafe which flipped on the "Open" lights just as we arrived. Perfect. Two riders had to go on, but nine of us enjoyed a great lunch buffet and conversation.

After lunch we went the final mile or two to the Country Club where we loaded up the bikes (trike) and equipment for the trip back home.

I am considering this route a "keeper". Maybe a change or two and maybe not, but it will be with us for a number of years.

John LInck

Ready for 2019 Lake Greeson trip

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 14:54:20 GMT

This is our first attempt at a 3-day tour ride around Lake Greeson with a start in Glenwood, AR. For the past dozen years we have ridden around Lake Ouachita for our 3-day winter outing. It was a great run of rides, but the traffic kept increasing yearly. Finally, last year I complained excessively about the traffic.

The time had come for me to quit complaining and do something about the situation. For a number of months I scoured the maps for a different route and came up with Lake Greeson. However, maps alone do not design a ride. I started driving around the area and made changes after each excursion. I will describe the final proposal below.

Anyone considering this tour ride should know that it can be a fairly easy event or it can be very difficult, according to the weather.

Our start will be at the Glenwood Country club which is a few miles East from "downtown" Glenwood. Since our first day is relatively short in miles we will not start until 11:00 AM. The first section of the ride will be on Hwy 70, which is fairly busy but has a good shoulder. There is a small cafe in Kirby, AR about 11 miles from the start which would be good for lunch. Also in Kirby is a small grocery store where supplies can be bought for the evening meal since there will not be a cafe nearby.

The other 11 miles to complete the first day will be a little different. The first 6 miles will be on Hwy 27, which also has an adequate shoulder. The final 5 miles will include 4 miles or so of dirt road. The condition of the road will depend on he amount of recent rain.

Our first night of camping will be at a remote campsite named Laurel Creek. This campsite has tables and a vault toilet. No water or electricity. Also, do not expect to have phone reception, but a bar or two will occasionally show up. We will plan on a campfire, but of course the weather will play a roll in everything.

The plans for the second day is a 48 mile ride with the 4 miles of dirt road to start the trek. Then we take a right on Hwy 27 into Murfreesboro which is about 14 miles from Laurel Creek. Here we could have an early lunch, or late breakfast, your choice. Also, some might want to purchase items for the evening meal.

From Murfreesboro we leave on Hwy 19 N for a short distance, then turn left on Muddy Fork Road. It is paved. Stay on Muddy Fork to Nathan Road where there is a right turn. There will be a four way stop a few miles later where you will go straight on Gum Tree Road (Nathan Road turns to the left). Stay on Gum Tree Road to Hwy 369 where you will make a right. Stay on Hwy 369 about 8 miles to Hwy 70 at New Hope. There is a small store (very small) if you need some last minute supplies. Go East on Hwy 70 around 9 miles to Daisy State Park where we will camp for the night.

Daisy State Park does have full bath houses with showers. We will need to check in and pay a camping fee at this park.

Sunday morning we are 7 miles from Kirby. Most will probably want to have breakfast there (although some may want to prepare their own breakfast in camp). The end of the ride is 11 miles back to Glenwood Country Club.

Please contact me with any questions.

John Linck 501-231-9350 jelmarine@aol.com

RAGBRAI

Thu, 24 Jan 2019 17:49:22 GMT

Anyone from Arkansas going to Iowa this summer? If so contact me about meeting up!

December Petit Jean Ride - 2nd day

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 14:40:48 GMT

As I started getting around the morning was off to a good start because the wet riding clothes that were hanging all around the cabin were now dry. Great news to start the day. I do not have numerous sets of riding clothes for the winter. Summer clothes abound, but the very expensive winter riding clothe are sparse. Getting them dry and warm was key to having a good second day.

The restaurant did not open until 8:00 for breakfast, which was later than most of us wanted, but it's their rules and we decided to stay there. With temperatures just above 30 degrees and fog I am not sure why we wanted to get around any sooner. However, all eight of us were standing at the entrance when the clock stuck 8.

Sitting at the table with my short stack and beacon I looked around to see six riders and two sag drivers, all over 60 and at least half over 70 years of age. This is a tough old group to be up and ready to ride another 36 miles in the cold damp weather. Some if not all has had bike crashes that caused some type of major injury and here they sat having breakfast in anticipation of another adventure on the bike. I was happy to get to participate.

The decision was made to depart at 10:00. The temps were up in the mid 30 range and there was no rain, just clouds. My job had been delayed, so I was free to join the group riding back to the Conway airport. The unfortunate situation was that I had worked so hard to move my vehicle to Mather Lodge and now I had to move it back.

Susan saved the day for me again. She volunteered to meet me at Conway and drive me back to Petit Jean if I really wanted to ride with the group. She saved the day, and my ride.

We normally do not stay together while riding. Each person can travel at the speed they desire. Sometimes there are single riders and often two or more stay together, To each his own. There are gathering points so that we know if everyone is doing OK. This event was especially good with two sag vehicles.

Climbing Petit Jean is an event in itself. Descending Petit Jean in the cold and wet is another event in itself. With cold hands to handle the brakes and very slippery pavement, caution was the key to the 1 1/2 miles of steep downhill. My trike makes descents easier than on a bike, but it should since it is so much harder to climb. Sort of evens itself out.

One rider decided to sag down the hill, which was not a bad decision at all. If you do not feel like you could enjoy it and do not feel safe at all, then do not do it. At the bottom we were all together again and relieved everyone was vertical on their bikes. We had 28 miles of rolling terrain left to enjoy.

In Houston there is a house where a man sells pecans. Most of the group stopped to make a purchase. I chose not to stop but i did stop at a nearby intersection. A man pulled up to me in his vehicle to ask how I was doing. He then told me he saw us at the airport the day before and wondered how we had progressed. I told him the ride was great and our overnight at Mather Lodge was also good. He was our age and indicated how amazed he was that our group made this ride, and up Petit Jean. He said he was proud of us and to carry on.

Lunch was at a convenience store and deli at the West end of the bridge over Toad Suck lock and dam. The sandwiches really hit the spot, along with the coffee. I now felt warm and strong for the final six miles to the airport.

I rode with Janice to finish the last half dozen miles. Actually, I enjoyed this segment as I was pedaling well and would not have minded if there were some more miles. However, the warm terminal building was nice.

We said our "good-byes" and wished each other well until the next event. There are some very good relationships developed on these treks around Arkansas and quite often it is with people that you would not normally meet in your daily living. That makes these events more special.

Susan soon arrived to take me back to Petit Jean for my vehicle. She also brought Marley, our Welsh Terrier puppy. By 6:00 I was home. As I walked into the house I thought about a statement Janice made as we were riding the final miles together. She said she travels all over the world on vacations, but our adventure rides are some of the most special days she has. So TRUE.

John Linck

Note: I must add that Jim Britt, the club president, did design and promote this ride. At only 3 years old, this event is quickly becoming one of my favorites with its great balance of total miles, difficulty and amenities. Thanks Jim.

December Petit Jean Ride.

Sat, 08 Dec 2018 22:29:40 GMT

The smooth blacktop on Lolly Road was a welcomed surprise as I drove my pick-up toward our starting point for the annual overnight ride to Petit Jean State Park Mather Lodge. We begin each year at the new Conway Regional Airport. I did notice that Janice Peters was behind me when suddenly a sign appeared that the road was closed. Then I saw the construction cranes at the old bridge. After phone calls and direction changes, everyone arrived at about the same time. A bumpy start to the ride, but nothing to discourage us. We did have a long list of potential participants, but the nasty weather report and the prospects of making the climb up Petit Jean pared our riders to six.

The weather was trying to be the real deterrent to our event. A bit cool at 39 degrees along with overcast skies that occasionally spit our some misty rain. However the stubborn gang of six riders, including myself, started the process of dressing for wet and cold. After stepping out of the vehicles there were various layers of protective clothing added and assessed. There is a real art to preparing for this type venture.

We had a very gracious couple driving "sag" for the ride. Charlie and Judy Jacob were driving their vehicle along with Jim Britt's vehicle so that we had ample sag if we were rained out on the return trip. Also, due to a couple problems I had to have my vehicle. First, I had a job the next morning on Lake Greeson. Second, if a sag was needed, my trike would not fit either of the sag vehicles or bike carriers. To accomplish this I drove to Houston, AR, unloaded my trike and rode back toward the group.

The timing was great. I met them at the intersection of Bethel Road and Hwy 60. At this time there was a steady drizzle to light rain. This continued as we made it to Houston and then on to Oppelo where we had lunch in the convenience store. Charlie drove me back to get my pick-up which I moved to Oppelo. From there Linda decided to drive my vehicle instead of taking on the daunting climb up Petit Jean. Worked out great for both of us.

We now had five people pedaling this climb. As I said before, I am riding a trike and all the other riders were on various types of bikes. After a year on this contraption I have basically accepted it is very slow on climbs, so I set it on 3 MPH and kept pedaling. Both Jim and Janice were with me at the start, but they went ahead as I slugged it out. About 2/3 up I heard Mike Knabe greet me and then blow right by. It was evident the trip across the United States had developed his climbing skills. Jenny came up later. The story I heard was that she thought there was much further to go, so she sagged up when she only had less than 100 yards left to finish the climb. I will count that as a very good climb anyway.

The distance from the top of the climb to Mather Lodge is six miles. When competed that gave everyone 36 for the day, except me. Due to moving the vehicle I finished with 30 miles. I still felt those miles due to the climb and the wet cold conditions. It was time for a hot shower and warm clothes.

Dinner was early because of winter hours at the restaurant. We finished eating and were sitting in a large room with a great fireplace blazing by 6:30. Our group was joined by a some nice ladies that meet yearly at the lodge. I think we hung around until about 8:30. It was time to retire for the evening.

The alarm was sounding off the next morning...............

Finish this tomorrow.

The 2018 BRAA has been completed

Sun, 22 Apr 2018 11:43:58 GMT

Yes, the Bike Ride Around Arkansas is completed. The weather was great and the roads provided. Unfortunately for me, it only lasted two days and one night. Making a living jumped up and took me away. A blast of wind hit a marina in the state so I was called to work. However, the rest of the group continued and encountered many sights along the way.

The tour started at Wal-Mart in Camden, AR. The store manager granted us permission to park our vehicles for the week while we toured. It was a chilly day as we headed South on US 79 toward our first campsite 30 miles away.

This road had medium to light traffic for a US Highway and did have a good shoulder. The terrain featured rolling hills and scenic country.

We stopped at a grocery store in Stephens, AR for evening meal provisions. We knew there would not be a cafe in the area. Each person made their own selections. I had decided before the start that I wanted to do more cooking in the camps, so I bought a couple hamburger patties and cheese.

The group stopped at a convenience store/cafe in Stephens for a late lunch. However, this was not a good day to get a hot sandwich for the kitchen is closed on Sundays. We made do with what was there and traveled on.

In late afternoon we arrived at Logoly State Park about 6 miles North of Magnolia. This is a neat little park for tent camping only. The park attendant and the park ranger were very cordial.

Our traveling group started with 5 riders. Jim Britt and myself were on the original BRAA about 11 years ago. Robert Carrol is a veteran rider in the group. Paul Young was starting his first fully loaded tour ride. We also had our special guest from Illinois, Rob Grider, who is also a veteran of many BRAA events. Great group.

This area was a tourist draw from back in the late 1800s due to some mineral springs. Jim and I walked to the springs only to find them mostly dry due to a falling ground water level. Still interesting and a good walk.

Everyone prepared their meals in camp, including the hamburger patties I bought. This actually worked out well.

We had a chilly night with the temps dropping barely below freezing. All the reports were that a good sleeping night was had by all.

Personally, I did not stir until about 7:00 AM Monday morning. I boiled some water for a hot cup of coffee. Breaking camp was not high on my list of desirable chores when the hot coffee tasted so good on this cool morning. However, it had to happen. It seems that making and breaking camp gets easier as a week progresses, but this was the first morning. I finally got it done and we rolled out at 8:30 for Magnolia and breakfast.

Although we try to find local cafes, this morning brought us to the ultimate national establishment, McDonalds. It actually worked out well but it does not have the local flavor we like.

We took US 82 East upon leaving Magnolia. We did find road construction underway, along with lane closures. It is a bit odd being on bikes, or a trike in my case, in a line of vehicles waiting to pass through the construction area. Once we got to move we allowed all vehicles to go first and then "scurried" through the area. Unfortunately for me, our "scurry" was mostly up a slight incline. I was simply winded by the time it was done, but recovered quickly.

Then I received the phone call from a very good customer that I was needed at the damaged marina. The indication was "next week" was not an option. I had to go to keep this good customer. At the next crossroad I had to depart. So sad. One of the other guys will need to continue with this story about the 2018 BRAA.

John Linck

2018 BRAA

Sat, 14 Apr 2018 22:29:15 GMT

The BRAA is about to start (in the morning). Personally, it has been a hectic week to finish all the work needed so I could be gone for a week, but it is here whether I am ready or not.

We are starting at Wal-Mart in Camden, with permission to leave our vehicles in their parking lot. We travel South on US 79 to Logoly State Park. I already have a possible alternate route, but it will wait until we get there.

The rest of the ride is subject to change, but will include Magnolia, El Dorado, Crossett (maybe), Moro Bay and Smackover. Changes are very possible.

If anyone has questions, contact me or be ready to ride at 11:00 from Wal-Mart in Camden, AR.

John LInck 501-231-9350

Driving the route - 2018 Bike Ride Around Arkansas

Fri, 06 Apr 2018 00:57:28 GMT

The 2018 Bike Ride Around Arkansas is just a few days from now, so Jim Britt and I plan to drive the route this Sunday. Hopefully we will find the roads and camping sites in good shape.

Our plan is to start in Camden, AR on Sunday, April 15. I am not naming most of the camp sites on this blog because there is always a chance of a change after we drive the route. The first area we plan to visit is Magnolia. I am not real happy with the camp site there, but at least there is one.

Our second night will be in El Dorado. The anticipated camp site there is a mile or two from town. Not too bad to go to eat is anyone wants.

The third night will be in Crossett. Not much choice there on camping. We will have a few miles to town, but easy riding if we do not want to cook in camp.

The fourth night will be in Moro Bay Park. This is somewhat remove, very pretty, if not flooded, and a good place for everyone to prepare dinner in camp.

The fifth night is not set. I am working on a possible site, but may change.

As most participants of previous BRAA rides, plans are mostly made to be changed. We will just see what happens. If anyone has any ideas for this area of the state, let me know.

John Linck 501-231-9350

The Lake Ouachita Ride may not survive

Wed, 14 Mar 2018 13:46:24 GMT

The 2018 Lake Ouachita Ride is in the books. Everyone that started the ride completed the ride. That is always a good thing.

Each year this event presents its own unique challenges, with this year not being an exception. This group met the challenge of muddy roads and cold night temperatures and kept on going.

We had good meals at cafes along the way, including the ending at the Pancake House in Hot Springs. We did find a couple closed cafes, but worked around the situation.

Now, for the part I did not like and will not do again. The section of the trip along US Hwy 270 was not fun, enjoyable, tolerable or anything else. That is my opinion, which is partly based on the fact I am now riding a recumbent trike. That section was very heavily traveled AND had the rumble strips which beat me up time after time. In addition, it seemed most sections of the trip were more heavily traveled that when we started on this route 11 or 12 years ago.

So, what am I going to do about it? Much of that is up to the participants and how they feel about continuing this ride. It has been a classic winter event up to this point. I would not be surprised if many riders would want it to continue. However, I will not ride it again, as I have stated.

A new route? Yes, I am working on developing a new winter event with its own challenges and rewards. At this time I am concentrating on the roads and campgrounds around Lake Greason. I hope to either have a proposed route within a couple months, or move on to another area, but it does look promising.

I would like to hear from riders that have participated in the Lake Ouachita Ride to determine if anyone has an interest in the new route I am developing or any other route suggestion. Or, forget it, we are sticking to Lake Ouachita. I am looking forward to comments and suggestions from everyone.

Date change for Lake Ouachita Ride

Wed, 21 Feb 2018 17:41:49 GMT

This does not happen often, but the weather has forced the Arkansas Bicycle Club to make a one day delay for the start of the Lake Ouachita Tour ride. The event will now start at 9:30 AM on Sunday February 25, 2018, which is that one day delay. Hopefully, the forecast will stay the same as it is now so that we have 3 nice days (for February in Arkansas) for the event. The continuing forecast of 100% chance of rain Saturday and Saturday night forced our change.

We will have a total of 7 miles of dirt roads for the 3 days. These roads may be a little muddy, but we will make it with the use of some patience.

At this time the forecast is calling for lows of 38 and 40 degrees for the two camping nights. This is much warmer than we often find on this trip, so that is a good thing. The highs will be around 60 degrees and partly cloudy. Of course, all this is subject to change.

Once again, I will be riding my trike and pulling a trailer for his trip. This will be my first attempt with this rig, so anyone worrying about the speed of the riders please do not. I will be plugging along way back there and enjoying the scenery.

I would like for everyone to bring a card, or two, with your name, phone number and contact person, with their phone number, in case of an emergency.

For any questions please call me at 501-231-9350.

2018 Lake Ouachita Tour

Tue, 06 Feb 2018 02:22:28 GMT

February is here, which means the 2018 Lake Ouachita Tour is very close. This year the event starts on Saturday, February 24, 2018. This is a 3 day event that would need to be rated fairly difficult, but not really. I will give a brief description of each day along with a general description.

This event starts in the parking lot at the Hot Springs Convention Center on Saturday morning. Just one look at the date will tell you that weather could be a factor in this event. We have been fortunate in that we have not had to cancel this ride due to weather. Also, do not worry about the forecasts until a couple days before the start.

Day 1: (42 miles) We ride up the Cedar Glade street and over to Mountain Pine and then over to Hwy 7 near Hot Springs Village where we have lunch at Home Plate, a neat local cafe. After lunch we ride a couple miles on Hwy 7 then make a left on Hwy 298 which takes us to a dirt road (2 miles of dirt) to Irons Fork campsite on Lake Ouachita. This campsite has tables and a vault toilet. There is no drinking water, so each rider may want to carry a little extra. Do not depend on phone service. Prepare your own meal. We will have a campfire.

Day 2: (42 miles) Yes, the distance is the same the first two days. This is an accident, not planned. It is 2 miles back to the highway where we take a left, up a nice hill and 10 miles to Story where we will take a break at a little store, cafe. Then take Hwy 27 to Mount Ida where we will have lunch, probably at a Dairy Queen, or where you want. Not a lot of choices. Then on to Crystal Springs park where we will have bathrooms with hot water and showers. This is always welcomed by the riders. The evening meal is up to you. Some ride back out to Burl's, which has sandwiches and Bar-B-Que. Some cook their own. Sometimes we have a campfire.

Day 3: (25 miles) A few miles after leaving the campsite our route takes us down a dirt road. Normally this is a good ride for 3 miles. When we are back on pavement we go through a pretty valley that takes us to the dam that forms Lake Ouachita. Normally we take a break there before riding the final 15 miles back to Hot Springs. On that 15 miles we go up a hill that we descended. It rides a little more difficult while climbing. If we find a good place, we will have lunch in Hot Springs to end the ride.

We normally start the ride in a group, but the riders spread out quickly. It is up to each rider if they want to ride together or solo. The hills help in breaking up the group. This year I will be on a trike due to a neck injury and I will be pulling a trailer (thanks, John Red). Hills will be very slow for me, but I will get there, hopefully before dark.

If you have any questions give me a call: John Linck 501-231-9350

Preparing for the Freeze Your Fanny

Tue, 09 Jan 2018 03:05:48 GMT

My brother and his wife have decided to ride the "Freeze Your Fanny" event in Longview, TX on February 3, 2018. I did try this event a few years ago and found it hilly and cold. What's new, there are hills and the date is February 3rd. So, I guess I am in with the trike. Probably not a good idea, but good ideas do not come my way very often.

They are offering a number of distances. I am considering the 50 mile course which does feature a little over 3000' of climbing. That is major climbing for this time of year. The only way I know to prepare for this much climbing is to go ride hills. If anyone knows a better way, please let me know. I have gone up River Mountain and Fort Roots in the past week. About a month ago I rode up the East Side of Petit Jean. That was a climb.

As anyone that has spun the pedals on a recumbent trike knows, the weak point of a trike is climbing. However, there are actually some good points about a trike on a hill, such as the fact you can stop, rest and start again without unclipping or falling over. As long as speed is not an issue the trike is just fine on a hill.

Considering all this, am I ready for 50 hilly miles in the cold on a trike? If everything works out to attend this event, I will know in a few weeks.

More about the recumbent trike riding

Sun, 31 Dec 2017 02:19:44 GMT

The year is ending with some bitter cold which is not great for riding a bike, but due to Jim Britt consistently leading good ride events, I have been able to work on my recumbent riding. Most of the rides have been in the 30 mile range with varying terrain.

Today, December 30, 2017, we rode a loop from Mayflower which included climbing Round Mountain. Scott Stafford and Janice Peters joined Jim and I on this cold grey day. We had a nice stop at the new Conway airport about half way through the ride. Personally, I was happy with my ascent of Round Mountain. The descent is getting better as I am learning to handle my Catrike 700 trike. This Catrike is my road trike. The Scorpion FX-20 is my touring and all purpose trike. Both have their good points.

I have been told it takes 6 weeks to get "trike legs". This is not true. It will take me more like 6 months, or longer to get "trike legs." Even little things, like avoiding pot holes is taking a while to learn. With three wheels it is more difficult to steer away from road or trail hazards.

Even with set-backs and difficulties, I am really enjoying riding and learning this new way of pedaling for me. It is different in many ways, including the sights. With the position on the trike there is a much better view of your surroundings than on a bike and more of a chance to take them in. Also, the sounds of the road are much different which is a little odd to me. Only a few feet lower to the ground and many events sound differently. I am sure there are even more changes coming.

Recumbent Trikes

Sat, 09 Dec 2017 03:00:56 GMT

As some may know, I suffered an injury a few years ago from an automobile accident. I have tried for over 3 years to continue riding my bicycle with considerable pain in my shoulder and neck. Finally, I am done with the pain and have started riding a recumbent trike. Yes, by switching to a recumbent trike the pain has subsided considerably.

Being a cyclist has made a major difference for my health and body. Not wanting to give that up and wanting to reduce the pain caused me to give a recumbent trike a strong look. So far, that strong look has some good results. Also, the trike is fun to ride in most situations.

This is how this is working for me at this time. I have no experience in cycling except my own, so I cannot advise or consult on the subject, but I am now a recumbent trike rider and I believe this is a good alternative to quitting cycling altogether due to physical restrictions or injuries.

Please let me know if you want more reports on the progress of recumbent trike cycling.

John Linck

Allen Berry article in AD-G, Feb. 2017

James Britt — Tue, 07 Mar 2017 02:16:57 GMT

Allen Berry

From the purchase of the Arkansas Democrat through the newspaper war with the Arkansas Gazette and later the merger of the two Little Rock newspapers, Allen Berry was at the side of Walter E. Hussman Jr., making the financials work as WEHCO Media’s chief financial officer.

Berry, 72, died Wednesday in Germantown, Tenn., where he had moved with his wife, Cathy, after he retired from WEHCO Media, Inc. after 37 years.

“He was there all along,” Hussman, publisher of the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, said Thursday about Berry, whom Hussman and his father hired in 1970. “He was a very trustworthy and loyal, dedicated man. He was dedicated not just to me, but really dedicated to the company and to the newspapers.

“He was a key reason for the success of our company,” Hussman said.

WEHCO Media owns the Arkansas Democrat-Gazette and also operates other newspapers and cable companies in Arkansas and other states. The Democrat and the Gazette newspapers combined in October 1991 after the Gannett media group closed the Gazette and sold its assets to Little Rock Newspapers Inc., now Arkansas-Democrat Gazette, Inc., ending a long, bitter newspaper war.

“Any financial dealing Walter had, Allen was the man responsible for getting it right,” said Lynn Hamilton, president and general manager of Arkansas Democrat-Gazette, Inc. “When Gannett sold the Gazette’s assets, Allen was the key financial player. Also, when Walter bought the Chattanooga [Tenn.] newspaper and when he bought the Jefferson City, Mo. , newspaper. And not just for the newspapers, but for all of the cable TV companies and the many transactions involved with the cable companies.

“He was the man who always made sure we had enough cash flow to fight the newspaper war with the Gazette,” Hamilton said.

Hussman, who bought the Democrat in 1974, recalled Berry getting the company through some tough periods. For example, he said, WEHCO’s cable interests were upgrading their systems during a period when the prime interest rate rose to 21.5 percent, while at about the same time the Democrat was becoming more directly competitive with the locally owned Gazette. Gannett then bought the Gazette in late 1986.

“We went through a lot of trying times,” Hussman said. “He had to deal with that on the cable side and then come up with more funds for the newspaper to be competitive. It was a struggle to come up with enough money to compete. Our whole company was smaller than the Gazette. It was a challenge for Allen, but he was good and he made it all work.”

Hamilton recalled that Berry was the first person to greet him and show him around when Hamilton was hired in 1974 as WEHCO’s data processing manager. The two became close friends, Hamilton said, while working together in the corporate offices for eight years. Hamilton moved to the newspaper’s operation after that.

“He and I worked sideby-side setting up the computer systems in the ’70s and early ’80s,” recalled Hamilton, who will be a pallbearer for Berry’s funeral Monday. “We went to lunch together every day, five days a week, for the first eight years I worked there.”

Berry graduated from the University of Arkansas at Fayetteville in 1966 with a bachelor of science in business administration and continued to earn his master’s degree in business administration there in 1968. Outside of his financial career, Berry served on the board of directors for the Heifer Foundation and was a Meals on Wheels volunteer.

Berry played tennis until he developed knee problems, Hamilton said. He became an avid bicyclist, joining the Arkansas Bicycle Club, and rode in the Des Moines Register’s Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa.

“I can testify to that,” Ray Gash, a friend since college, said of Berry’s cycling enthusiasm. “We spent most of our social time bicycling.”

Gash, a college accounting classmate, said he still talked to Berry every two or three weeks, with their last conversation coming just a week ago. Gash worked as a certified public accountant for Stephens Inc. in Little Rock and was the liaison between Stephens and the former Donrey Media Group, creating a career connection with Berry as well.

“It was amazing how our lives have paralleled,” said Gash, who is also to be a pallbearer. “If you ever wanted to meet the nicest guy in the world, that was Allen Berry. He had such quality and was such a fine, fine individual. You could not find a greater individual. It’s going to be a great loss.”

Allen Berry Obituary

James Britt — Mon, 06 Mar 2017 19:56:23 GMT

Allen was a previous ABC President and rode with us some in my early days before moving to Memphis to help his son's business. He brough a lot of old records and maps when he was cleaning out. Jim

Allen Wright Berry, 72, passed away February 22, 2017, at Methodist
Germantown Hospital in Germantown, TN. He was born on September 30, 1944 in
Memphis, Tenn. He was the older child of Alonzo (AA) and Lois (Wright)
Berry.

He was a graduate of Harrisburg High School in Harrisburg, Ark. Allen
received his BSBA in 1966 and MBA in 1968 from the University of Arkansas.
In 1969, he married Catherine Marie Fore and they raised two children,
Gregory and Emily, in Sherwood, Ark. Allen held the positions of Chief
Financial Officer and Treasurer at WEHCO Media, Inc. for 37 years. After
retirement, he and his wife Cathy moved to Germantown, Tenn. Allen was of
the Methodist faith where he served on the Board of the Heifer Project and
volunteered with Meals on Wheels. Being an avid cyclist, Allen was a member
of the Arkansas Bicycle Club.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Alonzo (AA) and Lois Berry. He is
survived by his wife, Cathy of 47 years; one daughter, Emily Hall (Michael)
of Germantown, Tenn.; son, Gregory Berry of Germantown, Tenn. Allen is also
survived by one grandson, Joey Taylor; one sister, Marilyn McCord Blackburn
(Ron); two nephews and two nieces.

Collierville Funeral Home has been entrusted with his funeral arrangements.
Visitation will be held Monday, February 27, 2017, from 10:30 a.m. until
service time at 12 noon at Germantown United Methodist Church. Burial will
follow at Harrisburg Memorial Park Cemetery in Harrisburg, Ark.

Pallbearers will be Ray Gash, Lynn Hamilton, Buddy King, Guinn Massey,
George Reagan, Paul Smith, and Charlie Van Deventer. Honorary pallbearers
will be Larry Hines and Gerald Kilpatrick.

The family would like to extend heartfelt thanks to Dr. Jeffrey Lee, Dr.
Hussein Tawbi, and staff at MD Anderson Cancer Center for their gentle and
attentive care throughout his illness.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to MD Anderson Cancer Center,
Melanoma Research, P.O. Box 4486, Houston, Texas 77210 or you may donate
online at www.mdanderson.org/gifts <http://www.mdanderson.org/gifts> .
Donations may also be made to Germantown United Methodist Church, 2331 South
Germantown Road, Germantown, Tenn. 38138.

2017 Lake Ouachita Ride

Wed, 15 Feb 2017 15:42:43 GMT

The 2017 Lake Ouachita Ride is just a few days away. It starts on February 25 from the Hot Springs Convention Center parking lot. We make very few changes to this ride each year, so if you have ridden it before, it will be the same route. I do not feel we need to make route changes because the weather makes ample changes without our help.

The weather forecast is good this far out, but can change drastically and quickly, so the plans I have can change with the weather, but I plan to extend the ride by a day or so and ride from the Little Rock area and maybe back, or maybe get a ride back.

Anyone interested in an extention to the trip, contact me. 501-231-9350

2017 BRAA

Wed, 14 Dec 2016 17:39:38 GMT

I have been working on the 2017 BRAA, which will start in mid April this year. It is almost complete and I believe will be a good one. The plan has us starting in Dardanelle, pedaling to Paris for lunch and then up Mount Magazine for the night. Might as well get the climb over the first day.

The second day is from Mt. Magazine to Waldron, AR. We start with several miles of downhill, so that is a good start.

The third day is from Waldron to a camping area in Oklahoma. I will drive to it in advance to see if there are any problems.

The fourth day is back into Arkansas to a RV site just North of "Y" City.

The Fifth day is to Lake Nimrod. I have not decided on which park we will pick for the night.

Now comes an option. The Sixth day can be back to Dardanelle, which will probably be the main pick. But the Sixth day can be to Petit Jean for the night and finish on he Seventh day.

This is just a quick look at the plan. Further posts will be made as we get closer to the date.

John Linck

BRAA 2016: Day 6, England to home (Heifer International)

James Britt — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 01:36:35 GMT

Not so much to report here. This was a short day of about 25 miles and the wind was way down and not much of a factor as i recall now. We had breakfast at the Waffle Shack across the street from the drive-in in England. I didn't know it was there either and it was good. We came straight up the hwy. through Keo to NLR and over the Clinton Bridge to Heifer. I did take our out-of-state friends on a slight detour to see the Plantation Settlement in Scott. The volunteer talked to the guys for a bit and we took some pictures. One of our experienced tour leaders took the lane coming into NLR where the road is narrow and there was more oncoming traffic than usual, being a work day. I wondered about this at first, but it was actually safer, to prevent cars behind us from trying to pass when there wasn't enough room. We came in to Heifer together. Several of us had lunch there before disbanding. We agreed that the next BRAA should be in April of next year. Robert rode from home and rode back to home from the Heifer parking lot.

Oh, I did learn while taking to some people at Bike Florida, that I think the most accurate term for our ride is self contained with my following definitions that are in line with Adventure Cycling.

Self-contained -- carry camping and cooking gear and no sag support

Self-supported -- may stay in motels; no vehicle, not expected to cook

Van-supported -- a vehicle moves your gear forward; you just ride and may have to cook in camp or go out for meals

Fully-supported -- vehicle for gear, rest stops usually, and catered meals

Boutique/credit card ride (may be other terms) -- stay at motels or B & B's and sag support

BRAA 2016: Day 5, Clarendon to Stuttgart and England

James Britt — Mon, 18 Apr 2016 01:17:24 GMT

It rained overnight while we were all snug in the motel. I think we decided to start at 10:00 am when the rain was over. We could have gone a little earlier, but by the time we had breakfast at Bendi's and arranged for the police escort over the bridge, it was about 10:00 am. The Clarendon Mayor, Jim, came by Bendi's to say hello. It turned out he paid our bills. Thanks, Mayor Jim, for the meal and the escort. We pushed off with the police escort over the Big White River Bridge. It is much too narrow to go alone. The escort got us out 1.5 or 2 miles to where the road widened and then we set out on our own. We knew it would be windy, and it was very windy. We weren't sure that we would make it past Stuttgart but we'd see what we could do. We pulled over at Ulm (a little town) and got behind a church building for a few minutes and it was such a relief, like in the eye of the storm.

We made it to Stuttgart and went into town for lunch at a run down little lunch room with a hot buffet. We had great food and probably doubled their business for the day. A good thought. The wind was either head on or slightly to our right again as we got back on the hwy. to England. Kenny had to leave the ride for a dr. appointment, but John called him and made arrangements to stay in a hunting friend's mother's backyard in England, Joanne. We fought our way to Humnoke in the wind, I think about 25 mph. Maybe gusting more. While resting there, John came up with the idea of a double pace-line. It is hard to explain so I messed up a few times, but in the formation, the last 2 people had quite a bit of relief from the wind, until it was their turn to pull for 1/2 mile. I normally, don't like a pace line for long, but we kept in formation all the way to England, but only at 9-10 mph and kept us both together and from being completely exhausted.

England: Joanne's house was on the north end of town, our way out the next day. We had dinner at the drive up place that I didn't know was still open on the hwy coming in to town from the north.They had good burgers, ice cream, etc. Joanne made us 2 pecan pies that we of course ate and ate some again for breakfast. Her own son told Kenny that she doesn't make them any more! The road did provide, again. We had a nice night with our tents pitched on the grass in the backyard.

BRAA 2016: Day 4, MS River S.P. (Marianna) to Clarendon

James Britt — Thu, 07 Apr 2016 00:55:28 GMT

The wind was up all night at MS River S.P. , if I didn't mention it before. As we rode out the next morning, some ate at Subway and a few of us went to the Do-nut Palace. (We had originally planned to go further south and through the lower White River refuge at St. Charles, but the wind was too strong). I had eyed the Palace the day before when we came in! As the sign said, "they treated us like a king." A couple of us got ahead of the last group leaving town so we stopped in at the Marianna Airport, which was a couple hangers with crop dusters, at least in the one we stopped at. They had invited us to spend the night there and the hanger would have been great, out of the wind. The yellow planes were grounded for the day so we could see them up close and how they got them out of the hanger with the support poles or stanchions in the way. The wind today was strong but not quite a head wind and more bearable than the previous day when we only did about 45 miles but that was our hardest day. We mostly regrouped over about 10 miles as we rode back toward Clarendon and got together at the store in Monroe, AR. Brad was driving ahead and coming back to tell us what was ahead from time to time, but we usually could find food. This little store had burgers and sandwiches and a long table to seat quite a few people. I think I'll go back on a cold winter day to see all the local farmers and old timers who likely spend a lot of time there. Kenny and Rob had gone ahead and got to the motel in Clarendon way before the rest of us. This motel does most of their business during duck season. The several times I've been by, I've never seen a car, so I was glad to give them some business. It was very inexpensive and a very nice, clean, motel with a nice new TV. I would recommend it. We wanted the motel because rain was coming that night, and the porta potty was no longer at the city campground. We ate a Bendi's diner in town. It gets our ABC seal of approval for quality, selection, and friendliness. I had a cone at the drive-in in town too. One of the local town fathers, Burton Moore, whom we had met before, gave us a tour of his aunt's or great aunt's house that is now preserved as a museum. It is the oldest house in town and had some nice old artifacts and piano and music boxes. He had brought in some old bells. Robert rang the large bell. He told him to be sure to get at the end of the rope before he pulled it because it was very loud, and it was. Clarendon is a very nice river town. It would be worth a drive over to see the Big White River Bridge and eat at Bendi's and even spend the night.

Linck blog for 2016 BRAA

Mon, 28 Mar 2016 23:53:38 GMT

Jim is writing a blog about the events of the 2016 BRAA ride. I decided to write my first person account a few days after each of his accounts.

This BRAA ride was originally designed for the lower few counties of the state and was to include a trip out of the state into Louisiana for one night. Well, that did not happen due to flooding. Kenny Gober and I drove the entire route after I spent many hours scouring the maps for a route. Needless to say, I was disappointed, but the BRAA would still go on. And it did go on quite well.

When I arrived at our starting area at Heifer International in downtown Little Rock on Sunday, March 20, 2016 I found we had a total of 7 riders. At first I was again disappointed but soon got over that when I started assessing the riders. We had 7 guys that had good equipment, good bikes and were ready for an adventure. We had four men from Arkansas and three men from Illinois. Note I said men as ALL the women cancelled for a variety of reasons. My guess is that the weather and the 70 plus mile first day playEed a major part of the cancellations.

Of note: The three Illinois men included Rob Grinder who has ridden with us several times for which I am grateful. Then there was Rich Scott. Rich rode a few years ago and returned this year. Ken Exum round out the Illinois group. Ken is a very experienced tour rider. He and Rich have led several Adventure Cycling tour rides the past few years. So, in this group we have two professional tour leaders being led by myself and Jim Britt. We are a couple of rank amateurs and we are leading pros. How was this going to work out?

You get the setting, so it is time to actually ride and ride we did for over 70 miles and this day we rode with the wind at our backs for most of the day. However, as I said, this is a first person account, and I need to say I was not sure I would make it all the way. At about half the distance we stopped in Humnoke for lunch where I quickly devoured some pizza and tried to rest a little. I knew I was not doing well but did not know how bad it would be later.

As we rolled to the junction with Hwy 79 in Stuttgart I was really tired. My total miles of riding before this trip was the lowest in several years due to many reasons. This lack of training was telling. I remember falling back with one other rider. We were well behind the rest of the group. I would work up the energy for a few pedal stroke and then coast. I was struggling.

Somehow, and I am not sure how, I managed to join the group just before entering Clarendon. We were at the junction where either we cross the White River on the old bridge or go under or around a barrier and take the new bridge. As the traffic continued to flow past us I voted strongly to take the new bridge because the old bridge is very narrow. We did take the new bridge and was thankful we did.

We rolled through Clarendon and then out to the city RV park where we would camp for the night. Kenny and I had spent a couple nights in this RV park with out RVs during the summer. There were a couple portable toilets which would work for us.

Robert Carrol, Jim Britt, Kenny Gober, the three Illinois guys and I then rode the short distance into town to eat at a dairy bar. It was cold and we had to eat outside, but everyone was tired, so we ate out burgers and headed back to the park to settle into our tents for the night...............

BRAA 2016: Day 3, Village Creek to MS River S.P.

James Britt — Mon, 28 Mar 2016 03:55:26 GMT

The wind continued all night but we were down in a hole in the state park and somewhat sheltered. Once we got back to the highway to Marianna, it was somwhat windy and hilly in Crowley's Ridge but very scenic. Once we got back to the flat lands before Forrest City, the wind was very strong, going into a straight headwind of about 25 mph. The group split into 2 parts. A few went straight through from Forrest City to Marianna. The rest of us stopped to eat at a nice buffet place in F.C. I'm glad I did because there wasn't much in Marianna. Our group got back together and went into Mississippi River S.P. on the Mississippi River Road. We were able to get a developed group campsite in the main park, without going all the way around the lake to the primitive area. I think it was said the wind gusts were up to 40 mph. My tent blew nearly flat down to the ground and bent a pole. It seemed to be more stable once I got the weight of my gear in it. It was too windy and somewhat cold to cook in camp. Brad shuttled us back to town for a Mexican dinner. We were glad to have him along in the car but none of us ever needed to sag forward. A man at the restaurant said we could have camped at the Marianna airport and another man on the highway stopped to thank us for bicycling in Arkansas. That was very nice, having 3 out-of-staters with us. Actually, the traffic was overall very respectful of us and probably feeling sorry for us on this day, and the next 2.

BRAA 2016: Day 2, Clarendon to Village Creek State Park

James Britt — Sat, 26 Mar 2016 01:34:02 GMT

We broke camp and regrouped at Bendi's for breakfast before leaving town. We headed to Brinkley. The police chief found us at the south end of town and gave us an escort through town. He told us there was a store in Hunter to the north, so we headed there for lunch. We had the best white bread sandwiches ever. I knew they would be good because they had a toothpick in the wrapping! They were glad we stopped, as were all the small stores we stopped at. From there, we went east to Village Creek S.P. with the entire route for the day being part of the Trail of Tears. The S.P. gave us 4 nice campsites. We weren't on the lake, but there was one,, and cabins but they were all reserved. This is the only night we cooked and ate in camp. Also the only night that we had a campfire. This day was about 62 miles with again mostly a nice tail wind but it was somewhat windy all night and still the next morning. Brad met us late that night in his car and took pictures along the way for the next several days.

BRAA 2016: Day 1, Little Rock to Clarendon

James Britt — Sat, 26 Mar 2016 01:27:44 GMT

Our group thinned out to 7 for the ride. We had to change the route at the last minute due to flooding in southern Ark. Thanks to Kenny and John for planning that route that we'll use another year. Our first day was our longest at 72 miles. I was probably our easiest due to mostly a tail wind all the way. The restaurant in Humnoke was closed but we knew that and had snacks and a rest at the store. The restaurant in Clarendon also closed for the day, being Sunday, before we arrived but the Lion's Den drive-in had burgers and such and ice cream. We camped at the city campground on the White RIver. A porta-potty was still there for the Trails Symposium that weekend.

Lake Ouachita Ride Day 3

James Britt — Thu, 10 Mar 2016 19:23:12 GMT

Day 3: As we say, "the road will provide." A restaurant had opened back at the Hwy. so we met there for coffee and breakfast. Thanks to Kenny. This breakfast was great since there is no other place along the way. We took the usual 3 miles of well bladed dirt road to the Bear community and on to the dam and Mt. Pine. The Hot Springs Bike/Ped coordinator met us in town and took our picture and got the news published, which helps there advocacy efforts there. We were not hungry so we didn't have lunch and just disbanded and wet to our cars.

Lake Ouachita Ride Day 2

James Britt — Thu, 10 Mar 2016 19:18:26 GMT

Day 2: Again, the weather was great. We climbed back to Hwy 298 and continued west to Story. It wasn't time for either breakfast or lunch so we went on the Mt. Ida after a break. Our normal restaurant in Mt. Ida was was in business since about 1950 something was closed so we ate at a drive-in diner. We broke into 2 groups for the ride to Crystal Springs but that was fine. The camp host let us camp on one site this time. I was the only one to ride back to Burl's BBQ at the Hwy. for dinner. It's nice to be inside for a while. The rib plate was great. We didn't bother with a campfire that night. It wasn't cold enough or enough wood right at camp.

Lake Ouachita 3 Day Tour in February Day 1

James Britt — Wed, 09 Mar 2016 05:02:09 GMT

Day 1: We left Hot Springs pretty much on time. There were some rangers doing a controlled burn as we went over Cedar Glades so we got a group picture. The ride to lunch was uneventful with the weather being nice. Cool but just right for riding. We got to the Home Plate a little earlier than usual so we were served right away and they were very friendly as usual. We ran into another controlled burn before we reached Irons Fork Campground. There was still fire across the lake inlet which made for a nice show at night. Plenty of driftwood and other wood was available for our camp fire after dinner. I think the lake had been much higher with so much driftwood. When I got up during the night, it was cool, but not cold. It was the best weather we've had for this ride.

Mt. View Annual Overnight Ride

James Britt — Mon, 18 Jan 2016 17:57:16 GMT

We started out with 9 of us. Thanks to Jarion for the sag vehicle. We had a very cold start but we all feel good once we started and even over dressed on the climb to Prim for lunch. Crossing the Midway Bridge over the lake was very scenic. We picked up 2 more riders who had spent the night before at Mt. View and rode backwards to Prim. Well, one of them had a broken bike so we had another sag vehicle. We had 1 blowout on the way which bend the rim, but the rider found a flat rock and hammered it back in and it held with some tape for the rest of the ride. "The road will provide." Another couldn't shift into the lower gear which is not good on this hilly ride.

We got to the B & B from 3-3:30 pm. The rooms were very nice and several of them were suites with a sitting area. The breakfast was great too. We had dinner at the Rainbow Diner on the town square. It got down to about 22F overnight but very little wind and it was a tail wind and it started sunny. Only 3 riders braved riding back up the mountain and completing the entire return. Most of the riders did ride another portion and after lunch. Only 2 of us had done this ride before so we were glad to have some new people to experience this weekend with the club.

Square to Square Ride

James Britt — Mon, 14 Sep 2015 13:02:42 GMT

We had about 12 ABC members on the Bentonville to Fayetteville ride and almost all had their ABC jersey on, at least after it warmed up. The day was great and the shuttle option before or after the ride made it more convenient for many. Some of us rode both ways but we were a little late getting to the official start. We'll work on that next time. We were talking about staying overnight in Bentonville next time to see Crystal Bridges and take the trail to it. The trail system is beautiful and well worth the drive up there to ride it. There were not nearly as many side road crossings as I thought there would be. There are few services directly on the trail except downtwon F'ville and B'ville. The Kum and Go was on the trail was very popular. It was about 20 miles from Fayetteville. I was told that the next one of these will be May 14 from F'ville to B'ville.

Save the Big White River Bridge Ride - Day 3

James Britt — Fri, 14 Aug 2015 03:17:14 GMT

This was a bit of an anti-climax day. The Saturday day riders had left with a few of the Friday riders, so we were down to 7 on the return. It was decided to leave after 6:00 am. I didn't want to get up so early but I knew that was best with the 100 degree day ahead. Even then, it was hot and especially humid getting the vehicle loaded. It was much better once we were on the road at 6:30. We had a tail wind for much of the return and we set a pretty fast pace but we stayed together. The restaurant in Humnoke was not yet open but it was too hot and still 25 miles to go to have more than a breakfast snack at the store there. We passed one local rider from Stuttgart who asked if we were the group from Clarendon, so the word got around somewhat which made me feel good.

Again, thanks to John and Susan Linck for the use of the support vehicle and Terry for driving. We couldn't have done it without carrying the extra ice water and the gear in the hot weather. Burton and Sarah Moore were great in offering the 2 furnished houses for our use. We'll have to tour their museum with antebellum furnishings next time. Mayor Jim and Phyllis Stinson in Clarendon were great hosts. We saw them off and on the whole time we were in Clarendon and Holly Grove. Clarendon Police were also great in getting us over the bridge. I think the Sheriff also had a vehicle there too. Also Police Chief Hollis Foster from Holly Grove was a great escort and friend and Mayor Lulu in Holly Grove and it seems the whole town, for turning out to greet us with cold drinks and hot dogs. The catfish lunch Saturday by Jim and Linda at East Lake was great and they and their son and daughter were also great hosts. The son drove us on their farm wagon on their gravel road from where we left our bicycles at the end of the payment. I think the folks in Madison County were very appreciative of us coming to publicize their bridge and we had a great time with them.

Save the Big White River Bridge Ride - Day 2

James Britt — Wed, 12 Aug 2015 03:23:01 GMT

We stayed in 2 furnished, unoccupied houses owned by the Moore family, one was the ladies and one for the men. Everyone had their own bed but we were prepared to sleep on the floor if necessary. We had another breakfast at the restaurant. I wanted French toast. It wasn't on the menu but they said they could make it but I had the short stack and they were great pancakes. We met at the foot of the bridge at 8:30 am where we picked up about 8 more riders for the day rides, for a total of 19. We again had a police escort and went over the bridge and back and again, stopped for pictures at the top. The view of the River and the steeple of the Monroe County courthouse were superb. I think everyone continued on with a police escort by Chief Hollis Foster to Holly Grove, about 11 miles way. It was dead flat and we were really flying, only to find out later it was because of the wind that we had to fight coming back. Holly Grove had hot dogs and cold drinks for us and the town folks. Then, we had a police escort around the small town. Kenny was getting a flat, so we pumped it up to get him to lunch. He had a big blow out when he hit a pothole on the Bridge on Friday, so technically, he didn't go over the whole bridge on Friday. The Chief led us a few more miles to East Lake. Linda and Jim and family there had a big catfish lunch for us. He caught the fish on the lake. Their son drove us the last 1/2 mile down their gravel road on a wagon which you may see in the Pictures. The big lunch was great. By the time we fought the wind getting back to Clarendon and going over the bridge and around Holly Grove, I got in about 32 miles. We were going to go to Louisiana Purchase State Historic Park, but it was too much farther for us for this trip. Some rested when we got back to Clarendon. Some of us got on 2 boats and went up the White and Cache Rivers with Mayor Jim Stinson and his friend, David, for more than 20 miles on the Rivers. It was time for dinner when we got back, so I didn't get cleaned up until nearly 9:00 pm. The restaurant closes at 8:00 pm and we got in a little trouble for not getting in early enough Friday evening. Not too much trouble.

Save the Big White River Bridge Ride - Day 1

James Britt — Mon, 10 Aug 2015 00:35:06 GMT

Friday, Aug. 7. We started out at 8:20 am with 11 riders and a sag driver and picked up Peggy for part of the ride. It was very hot but we were lucky that it was overcast most of the way. The store at Humnoke said we might catch up to the rain in Stuttgart but we didn't. The Police from Holly Grove and Clarendon met us in Roe to escort us over the bridge since part of it is very narrow. They stopped the traffic both ways so we could get some pictures and see the views. We went straight to lunch in Clarendon about 1:30. After that, we went to the 2 houses that were made available to us by the Moore family. Everyone had their own bed with towels and plenty of bathrooms and showers. Some of us went to the city museum but we didn't have time on this trip to visit the Moore House Museum across the street from where we were staying to see their collection of antebellum items. That will be on the next trip.

September 10, 2015 meeting

James Britt — Thu, 30 Jul 2015 03:20:35 GMT

Meeting will be at Oyster Bar (Markham at Kavanaugh, LR) at 7:00 p.m. but come after 6:00 pm if you wish for dinner. We should have Arky registrations and shirts. There will be a brief election / re-election of 2 board members. Program: Bicycling in The Netherlands by Janice and Linda V.

New Jerseys

James Britt — Thu, 25 Jun 2015 21:58:27 GMT

I will get a fit kit for testing the jerseys. We'll have the same design but the fabric or style or something has changed so I'll have this kit available toward the end of July when I get back since I can only keep it for a month and I'll be away. Let me know if you'd like to order 1 or 2. I'd like to order more than 12 to get a price drop. They run from men's XS to 4XL.

NLR BDB Closed

James Britt — Mon, 22 Jun 2015 20:14:46 GMT

Steve Shepherd reports that there is damage to the levee and power plant and Cook's Landing and north side of the BDB are expected to be closed for a few weeks. He suggests parking at DEQ if you want to start your ride there.

Trail cleanup

James Britt — Wed, 10 Jun 2015 03:24:45 GMT

We had a good turnout for the NLR trail cleanup on Tuesday. Another one is scheduled for Saturday, June 13 but the location is not yet set. The NLR River Trail should be open soon.

River Trail Closed

James Britt — Sun, 31 May 2015 03:24:51 GMT

Two Rivers Park and the NLR side of the BDB and much of the NLR Trail are flooded.

May 30 TdR Training ride is cancelled

James Britt — Thu, 28 May 2015 04:18:08 GMT

Due to possible storms and trail flooding. You can do the Fondo or help with the Rock City Run.

Storm Drain decal ride

James Britt — Tue, 26 May 2015 04:02:06 GMT

We had 4 riders putting Audubon decals on the storm drains, "drains to Fourche Creek" on Memorial Day. We got past 65th St. and used the new Coleman Creek Trail on the east side of University Ave., from 19th St. to UALR. It was very nice and has lights.

Susan wins 2015 Prediction Ride

James Britt — Sat, 23 May 2015 23:59:37 GMT

Susan Linck won the Prediction Ride by being only 25 seconds off of her estimate. She beat Ken Gould by 30 seconds even though Ken came was ahead of the pack and was just 1 minute off of his estimate.

Bikes, Blues, and Bayous Ride Aug. 1

James Britt — Mon, 18 May 2015 03:57:54 GMT

If you are planning on going to Greenwood, MS for this ride, The non-smoking rooms are filling fast. We are staying at the Best Western in Greenwood Friday night.

Keys found Sunday

James Britt — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 22:39:48 GMT

JBar reports that a group of 4 riders dropped a set of keys in Burns Park Sunday afternoon. Here is the contact to get them claimed. This is another benefit of being with a riding organization. Jeff Caplinger at NLR Parks at 501-791-8540 or jcaplinger@nlr.ar.gov

Added local registration to out of state rides

James Britt — Tue, 17 Mar 2015 03:47:24 GMT

I have added a local registration/carpool link to some of the out of area and out of state rides. For example, if you wish to go on the Erie Canal Ride, let us know so we can go together. Sign up with the ride and register locally. Be sure to register for the BRAA too if you are interested so we have your name.

Updates

James Britt — Mon, 23 Feb 2015 21:41:52 GMT

I have added the Member's STATE to the database. Members, fill in your phone number also when you log in and check your personal data and Emergency Contact info if you wish. Poke around let me know if you see any major glitches. Sometimes I have a setting on "Admin" instead of "Public."

Welcome

James Britt — Thu, 19 Feb 2015 05:24:14 GMT

You can post your questions and comments here.