RMBP July-August - Bicycle Paper.com

July / August 2013 BicyclePaper.com Vol 2 Issue 2
Mountain Biking
White Ranch: Just Use
the Back Door
By Paul Keiler
Listen up folks! For years I have to the west up through shady pine forests
been hearing certain riders knock Jef- and ends among grassy meadows and
ferson County’s White Ranch Open former pastureland. The White family
Space Park. People don’t like it because originally used the land as a cattle ranch
it’s too hard,
and several
too steep or too
historical remlong. Baloney!
nants are still
White Ranch
on display. The
is just like your
park incorpograndparents’
rates a variety
house or a really
of amenities
good neighbors’
for all trail ushouse; just use
ers including
the back door.
a picnic area
Sure you have
and restrooms.
to drive an exPermits to two
tra 20 minutes,
campgrounds
but the route is
are available
one of the most
for those wantscenic of any
ing to extend
on the Front
their stay over
Range, espemultiple days.
cially in the fall.
The
area
The view from Shorthaul Trail. Photo by Paul Keiler
And for road
b o a s t s m o re
riders, the 12-mile ride out of down- than 20 miles of multi-use trails of
town Golden is one of the best short- varying degrees of difficulty.
hill climbs around. There is plenty of
White Ranch has two access points:
shade for a quiet break at the top and the front door, or east, and the back
the 12-mile downhill return will leave door, or west. The east access point
you howling with delight.
is located about two miles west of the
White Ranch Open Space Park is intersection of Highway 93 and West
an 883-acre parcel of land beginning 56th Avenue on Pine Ridge Road. This
at the base of the foothills northwest of really is the main door to White Ranch
Golden. The park almost immediately
See “White Ranch” on page 6
climbs sharply from shrub land bottoms
Fort Collins
M2D — 10 Years of
Scenic Riding and Serious Fun
By Cindy Fusting
The remote and rugged San Juan Mountains of
southwest Colorado cover 12,000 square miles, comprise
the highest area of elevation in the continental United
States and contain North America’s largest concentration
of 14,000-foot peaks. It is a dramatic and beautiful corner
of the world, raised by ancient volcanoes and masterfully
carved by nimble rivers and massive, slow-moving glaciers. Yet,
Telluride, nestled within the highalpine haven of the San Juans, lush
with quaking aspen and fields of
wildflowers, is just a short distance
away from the arid climes of a vastly
different landscape. Each fall, hundreds of cyclists
gather in Telluride, in the heart of
the box canyon at the headwaters
of the San Miguel River, for the
Photo courtesy of M2D
annual and aptly named Mountains to the Desert Bike Ride (M2D). The event follows an
arduous but extraordinarily aesthetic course with distance
options ranging from 70 to 133 miles. The ride’s finish is in
Gateway, Colo., the desert junction of the Mesa, Gateway
and Unaweep Canyons, more than 6,000 feet below the
Telluride start. With the topography of their home turf as muse and
support of local children as their purpose, event organizers
Josephine and Erik Fallenius hosted the inaugural Mountains to the Desert Ride in 2004. Combining Erik’s love
for endurance sports and his commitment to community
Law
activism, together with Josephine’s talent for organization,
the team was able to put on a successful biking event for elite
and recreational riders. The M2D Ride raises money for
the Just for Kids Foundation (JFK), which provides funding
for over 75 organizations and events that support, empower
or encourage youth living within the San Miguel Watershed. Entry fees and support from
sponsors such as Moots, Nevasca
Realty, U.S. Bank, Jagged Edge and
Lizard Head Cycling Guides, cover
event production while 100% of all
fundraising goes directly to JFK.
Since its inception, riders have
raised over $685,000, and with a
matching grant from the Carstens
Family Foundation, JFK has been
able to distribute more than $1.35
million. Every M2D participant
is encouraged to seek sponsorship
contributions and cyclists receive one raffle ticket for every
$100 they raise. Raffle prizes range from gift certificates to
local shops and eateries to the coveted annual grand prize
of a custom, handmade Moots bicycle.
September 21, 2013, will mark the event’s 10th anniversary. The organizers have steadily grown the ride into
a premier cycling event, inspiring area locals to try the
sport and attracting more and more riders from across the
country each year. See “M2D” on page 4
Health
Reaching Platinum
level — a stepping stone
towards increasing mode
share.
Colliding with another
rider — it happens more
often then you think.
pg 3
pg 4
How much water
should you drink while
cycling?
pg 6
Product Reviews
Dahon Formula S18 — Travel Friendly with Performance
By Jay Stilwell
I
have always thought the idea of a folding bicycle was good and practical where space comes at
a premium. One of the major selling points is that you can fold the frame, handlebar, stem, and
lower the seat post to a small package, similar to a swiss army knife. This convenience enables the
bike to be travel-friendly and easy to use for mass transit commuting, and it is ideal for the apartment dweller or office employee who doesn’t have the room for a full-size bike.
For the past month, I have had an opportunity to ride the Dahon Formula S18 on my 10-mile
daily commute and several 25-mile rides on the weekends. The S18 is one of the company’s new
performance bikes that comes equipped with disc brakes, 20” WTB SX-17 wheelset, Schwalbe
Kojak tires, and a larger gearing ratio that makes for a quick ride. Dahon is one
of the pioneers in foldable bikes and has been manufacturing them for 30
years, though earlier models focused more on function than performance;
this has apparently changed, as this bike has lots of features that you
might find on a nice full-size road or commuter bike. At 24.5 lbs.,
the S18 has a respectable weight that is comparable to a mid-range
road bike while still being light enough to easily carry.
Starting with a lightweight alloy frame with one main horizontal
tube that folds in the middle, then adding a very long seat post and
stem to compensate for the small frame and twenty inch wheels, the
designers at Dahon have created a bike that is very quick and agile while
being comfortable to ride. It has a straight bar setup with trigger shifting
and anatomical grips, providing an upright ride, which for me is preferable
when commuting in the city. With a 56/46-tooth combination upfront and a nine-speed cog in the
back, this 18-speed has plenty of gear options to keep the 20-inch wheel rolling.
Based on my recent experience, many features stood out, but the folding pedals, comfortable
saddle, disc brakes, and adjustable handlebar are my favorites. With a solid platform and a good
grip, the pedals allow a regular street shoe to be used which is also nice for commuting. The Kore
Saddle has a narrower profile and is very comfortable; I didn’t experience soreness or discomfort
on any of my rides. The Avid disc brakes are easy to adjust and I appreciated their stopping power
on several occasions. Having a quick release on
the stem allows for micro-adjustments of the
handlebar’s position, another great attribute.
The Formula S18 is a well-built bicycle
but few aspects took awhile to
get used to. The bike uses
a telescopic handlepost,
which due to its length in
the upright position, tends to flex
some when force is applied —
like when riding out of
the saddle. Because of
it, I climbed from
a sitting position
and was careful
when leaning on
the handlebar in
corners. One feature
that gave me pause was
the placement of the water
cage mounts. Positioned horizontally on the top tube, it’s necessary to keep
the water bottle closed otherwise the contents
might spill.
Overall this bike is well worth considering
for those shorter rides or paired with a mass
transportation work commute. Its strength is its
compact nature and Dahon has done a nice job
Photo by Rick Peterson
of adding some performance features. I wouldn’t
suggest this bike as a replacement for 50-mile-plus
rides, to me a larger frame is more comfortable
for longer distances. However, many people have
no problem touring on a folding bike and they
are much easier to travel with than conventional
bicycles. At $1,399, the Formula S18 is competitively priced to similar models offered by other
manufacturers. For more info about all of Dahon’s
collection go to www.dahonbikes.com.
boomBOTTLE
By Darren Dencklau
My newest riding companion doesn’t drink
water. Or eat food. In fact, our conversations
are mostly one way
and I’m never told
that we should turn
around or asked how
much further we’re
going to go.
The boomBOTTLE is a Bluetoothequipped audio station made by Schosche that features
two 40mm 3-watt
drivers and a passive woofer that emits sounds in all directions.
It fits snug in standard water bottle cages and is
encased in shock absorbing rubber that is “splash
proof.” Charged using a computer’s USB port,
the company
claims the lithium polymer
battery holds a
charge for 10
hours and the
battery level is
displayed on
the Bluetooth
device it is
synched with.
The multifunction button turns the device on and off and switches to
the speakerphone to answer phone calls. Two
other buttons control the volume. The boomBOTTLE also has an input jack for auxiliary devices
such as iPods and portable CD players.
Connecting the device to my iPhone 4 was easy; I simply went to my phone’s settings and turned
the Bluetooth feature on and was synched in moments.
I carry the boomBOTTLE with me frequently and it’s wonderful for around the house and in
the garage when I am working on the bikes and doing other household chores. At only 450 grams,
it’s easily portable and storable, so in addition to carrying it on the bike I can take it with me in my
pack and use it anytime I want to share music with others. On a recent car camping outing, it was
great to have tunes around the fire.
So far it has performed perfectly and the battery life is long, as designed. I use it often on the
commutes and it definitely turns heads as I am rolling down the path. It is sometimes difficult to hear
in headwinds and while riding amongst city traffic, but certainly safer than wearing headphones.
Summer plans include a few short tours and for those long and boring stretches it will be a great
riding partner to have. Music is a big part of my life and when coupled with riding bikes it makes
it even better.
MSRP is $149.99. Dimensions: 2.85” x 8.125”. Available in yellow, pink, blue, green or gray
(tested). More information can found at scosche.com.
COMING SOON!
metalcowboy.com
2 l Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper
July / August 2013
Community
The Platinum Perspective
Lessons from Platinum Level Bicycle Friendly Communities
By Rick Price, Ph.D.
July / August, 2013
Volume 2 • Number 2
Publishers Jay Stilwell
Ryan Price
Associate Publisher Claire Bonin
Editorial
Editor Claire Bonin
Assistant Editor Darren Dencklau
Writers Claire Bonin
Ellen Chow
Darren Dencklau
Cindy Fusting
Maynard Hershon
Paul Kieler
Rick Price
Pamela Stewart
Jay Stilwell
Brad Tucker
Photographers Bicycle Paper
Chad Cheeney
Dahon
FC Bikes
Fits Socks
Paul Keiler
Mountains to the Desert
Rick Peterson
Cover Photo On September 21st join
hundreds of participants in Telluride to celebrate the
event's 10th anniversary. Photo courtesy of M2D
Art and Production
Design and Production Amy Beardemphl
Advertising
Contact Darren Dencklau
Phone 206-903-1333 x 103
Toll Free: 1-888-836-5720
[email protected]
[email protected]
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I
n May, Fort Collins became one of four elite
Colorado State University (CSU) is 50 years behind Davis in implementing a car-free campus.
communities designated with Platinum level While the CSU master plan calls for no cars on campus, it is far from being implemented. There is
“bicycle friendly community” status along with also no transportation master plan for the university. Time is of the essence and we can accelerate
Portland, Ore., Boulder, Colo., and Davis, Ca- our catch-up with Davis if the university administration will just commit to it. They have begun
lif. According to the League of American Bicy- that process with the current job opening for an alternative transportation manager. Based on the
clists (LAB), the recognition is based on ratings salary level advertised for this position ($75 – 90,000) we should expect an experienced planner.
that evaluate five categories of bicycle friend- According to the job description, “alternative transportation” means “pedestrian, bicycle, car pool,
liness, commonly known
and shuttle transit and infrastructure” related programs. In addition,
as the five “E’s” including
“the position will serve as the university’s primary contact and advocate
“engineering” (infrastrucfor alternative transportation issues.” This is great news and we can
ture), “education,” “enhope for a real advocate in this position whose first job will be to write
forcement,” “encourageand implement an alternative transportation plan.
ment,” and “evaluation.”
There are more players in this game. The city has committed to
This important metric
funding an alternative transportation planner who is now our senior
in achieving Platinum
transportation planner. They also have an experienced bicycle program
status relates to how many
manager and funding for a staff assistant, or bicycle program specialist,
people ride bicycles for
and have a half-time Safe Routes to School (SRTS) coordinator. Lacking
daily transportation (mode
is the full-time SRTS coordinator called for in the city’s Bicycle Safety
share). Davis for example
Education Plan. The position was to be shared jointly between the city
had a bicycle mode share
and Poudre School District (PSD). It was never clear how this position
of 24% in the 1990 census.
would be funded but it seems important to engage educators in teaching
As the city grew, though,
bicycle safety. The city should initiate that conversation now with PSD.
and became less of a
In the Northwest, the City Club of Portland provides an excellent
university town and more
example of community involvement in transportation planning. The
of a bedroom community
group describes itself as a “non-profit, nonpartisan education and reto Sacramento, that share
search based civic organization dedicated to community service, public
dropped to 16% in 2000 Bicycle friendly Fort Collins. Photo by FC Bikes
affairs and leadership development.” Recently the club released “No
and fell to 14% in 2010. At the same time towns Turning Back: A City Club Report on Bicycle Transportation in Portland,” a study that recognizes
like Boulder and Fort Collins increased their bicycling as a mainstream form of transportation. The recommendations in the report would benefit
bicycle mode share during those years to 10.5% any community hoping to encourage more bicycle commuting.
and 6.7%, respectively, as they encouraged
Fort Collins should seriously consider some of the City Club report recommendations. These
bicycle use and built their bike infrastructure. include:
For comparison, Portland’s bicycle mode share,
1. Developing more separated commuter bicycle routes through the use of cycle tracks and
according to the LAB, stands at 6.3% while the bicycle boulevards.
national average is less than 1%.
2. Applying more strategic infrastructure investments (an example of this are the road diets
Specific programs and policies from these applied to LaPorte Avenue or Laurel Street where four lanes were reduced to two lanes with a
four cities can help us understand how to increase center turn lane).
bicycle mode share and make Fort Collins an
3. Installing automated bike counters at key bicycle nodes to better understand how many people
even better bike town.
are riding bikes (this is useful for grants and funding purposes).
The Davis experience and the relationship
4. Improving education and enforcement programs for new adult cyclists and for school children
between the university and city are especially
5. Adopting long term funding strategies for building a better bicycle environment.
instructive. In the 1960s the Chancellor of CU
The latter might include a 4% excise tax on new bicycles (this is a strategy that has been used
Davis, Emil Mrak, asked his planners to create in Colorado Springs for over 20 years) or the inclusion of bicycle infrastructure in an eventual
a car-free campus and he encouraged students transportation services bond or a street maintenance fee.
to bring their bicycles to the university so they
Fort Collins is getting there, but still has a long way to go to catch up to its Platinum counterparts
could “make it to class on time.” More recently, and move into the bicycle mode share’s double digit percentage realm.
in 2011, the university adopted a comprehensive
Rick Price, Ph.D., is co-founder of Bike Fort Collins, a League of American Bicyclists’ League Cycling
bicycle transportation plan to guide efforts for
Instructor and the volunteer Safe Cycling Coordinator with the Fort Collins Bike Co-op.
the future of bicycling. CU Boulder also has a
transportation master plan that dates to 2011.
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Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper l 3
Law
Cyclist vs. Cyclist Collisions
By Brad Tucker
I
n the last issue, we took a look at several important safety considerations relevant to bicycling on multi-use trails. Sadly, cyclist vs.
cyclist collisions do occasionally occur on these trails; and when that
happens, it is important to handle the situation thoroughly and correctly in order to best protect your rights.
Since Colorado has no statewide statutes regulating multi-use trails, in the absence of any municipal ordinances that might apply, the conduct of each person in a cyclist vs. cyclist collision will
be viewed based upon standards of reasonable care. In other words, a rider is expected to operate
a bicycle in a safe and careful manner, as would others in similar circumstances. While there are
certainly instances where these collisions occur solely due to the conduct of one party, with the other
being completely fault free, there are also instances where both parties share some degree of fault.
In this state, each person’s conduct will be judged and fault will be apportioned between the
two cyclists. In order to successfully recover damages, you must prove by a preponderance of the
evidence (i.e. more likely than not) that the other cyclist was 51% or more at fault. In a lawsuit, if
a judge or jury determines the fault to be 50/50, neither can recover damages from the other. This
concept of comparative negligence also serves to reduce damages by the percentage of fault assigned
to the party making a claim. In other words, if you could prove $10,000 in damages, but the adverse
party was found to be 51% at fault, with you 49% responsible, your net judgment would be in the
amount of $5,100. The judge or jury, depending upon the circumstances, is allowed to consider all
of the evidence concerning fault in determining the appropriate percentages.
Just as in an accident caused by the driver of a motor vehicle, it is imperative to gather as
much information as possible in the immediate aftermath of a cyclist vs. cyclist collision. In cases
of serious injury where emergency medical assistance is needed, there will occasionally be law
enforcement dispatched to the scene of the accident, even if it is on a multi-use trail as opposed
to a roadway. While there is always the possibility for a cyclist vs. cyclist collision on a roadway, in
my practical experience this is extremely rare. As a result, you cannot count on law enforcement to
investigate, document and report a cyclist vs. cyclist collision in the same manner in which a motor
vehicle vs. cyclist collision is done. Without this assistance, the burden of the investigation falls on
the involved parties.
Today, many ride with cellular phones, which are almost always equipped with cameras. Using
a camera to photograph and/or video the scene of an accident can be extremely helpful. This is
particularly true if there is important physical evidence such as tire skid marks or crash debris that
would help prove how and where the collision occurred. If not prevented by physical injuries, a
cyclist should attempt to capture as much of this important evidence as possible. If physical injuries
prevent you from doing so, enlisting the aid of a witness or third person to document the evidence
can accomplish the same result. Gathering witness contact information is also crucial. Again, while
we do not always ride with pens and paper, our phones can store text information, make voice
recordings, and even preserve videotaped instant accounts from witnesses relative to their contact
information and what they saw at the scene. Simply remembering to utilize this technology can be
of great assistance in preserving the accident scene.
If you believe you were harmed by the neg- considerations associated with making such a
ligence of another cyclist, you will ultimately be claim. Conversely, if the other cyclist notifies you
making a claim for injuries and damages against that they are holding you at fault for the collision,
that person. Often, it is
it is important to notify
only through the exisyour homeowner’s or
tence of homeowner’s
renter’s insurance comor renter’s liability inpany immediately. Desurance coverage that a
lays in notification to
person has a meaningyour insurer of the
ful way to respond to a
claim can jeopardize
claim. Unfortunately, in
your coverage. If a
my practice I have seen
claim is made against
innocent victims of cyyou, your insurance
clist vs. cyclist collisions
company will not only
be put in situations where
indemnify you up to
they were harmed by
your policy limits, but
another rider who had
provide an attorney to
no liability insurance
defend you if a lawsuit
through a homeowner’s
is filed. Where there is
or renter’s policy, and
disputed liability and
no assets from which
injuries to both cyclists,
to settle the claim. In
counterclaims are often
those situations, there is
made and the entire disreally no practical way to
pute is resolved within
pursue recovery. Unlike Accidents happen faster than you think.
one proceeding. These
motor vehicle insurance, Photo by FC Bikes
types of disputes are
which is mandatory, there is no similar require- very difficult to resolve in the absence of physical
ment for homeowner’s or renter’s insurance. Any- evidence or third-party witnesses. The imporone who owns a home will almost certainly have tance of gathering and preserving that informaapplicable insurance.Renter’s coverage, however, tion cannot be overstated.
is much less prevalent.
Hopefully you will never find yourself in a
The issues associated with the ability of situation that requires you to follow these basic
an at-fault cyclist to respond to a settlement or tips; however, they are important to keep in
judgment is often the most important practical mind, just in case.
Brad Tucker is an avid cyclist, member of Bicycle Colorado’s Board of Directors, and an attorney with a
specialty in bicycle liability and insurance issues with ColoBikeLaw.com. If you have questions concerning
legal issues effecting cyclists, he would be happy to provide a no-cost consultation. You can contact him by
e-mail at [email protected], or by phone at 303-694-9300.
Events
“M2D” FROM PAGE 1
Telluride resident and President of the Board
of the Just for Kids Foundation, Eric Saunders,
first participated in the M2D Ride back in 2005.
A long-time avid mountain biker, Saunders decided to give road biking a try and trained hard
for the event.
“It was a great ride, a great experience,”
remembers Saunders, “and now, it’s just huge
for the community, and it’s been an amazing
benefit for the children in our area. The canyons
and the camaraderie are spectacular, and it’s just
energizing to see the kids who come out in appreciation for the riders who are really supporting
them. Kids in Nucla and Naturita who hand out
bananas and cheer on the riders, I know that JFK
is making a difference in their lives.” The local community has come out strong in
support of the ride’s cause as well as in excitement
over the event itself. Many use M2D as a goal for
a summer’s worth of training, and others look
forward to testing themselves against each other
at the front of the pack. “I always look forward to the social aspect of
it,” says John Humphries, the owner of Lizard
Head Cycling Guides. “The whole experience is
great, the high spirits of the riders, the friendly
competition, and I love feeling the power of the
4 l Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper
Gorgeous views, great company . Photo by M2D
peloton. Watching the trees along the San Miguel River Canyon just getting blown back as a pack
of 100 or so riders race by … it is something to see.” The original course followed the San Miguel River’s precipitous descent from Telluride to
Placerville with a short but steep climb at mile 28.5 to rise up to the wide-open farmlands of
Norwood. The course continued along the river to
Naturita and then west over the La Sal Mountains
to the town of Moab, Utah. However, back in 2010,
safety concerns, the opportunity to appeal to a wider
range of cyclists along with the desire to showcase
the 700-foot sandstone cliffs flanking the goosenecks
of the Dolores River, led the organizers to the ride’s
current route with its finish line beneath the Palisade,
the town of Gateway’s staggering 1,700-foot red rock
buttress landmark. The route remains unchanged from Telluride
to Naturita, but now veers off to the northwest and
winds along the Unaweep/Tabeguache Scenic and Photo by M2D
Historic Byway that leads to Grand Junction, Colo. Participants can choose to either end their rides
upon their arrival to Gateway, or they may turn northeast up the Unaweep Canyon, adding on a
punishing 16-mile climb to the event’s summit and then descend back into Gateway to complete
the full 133-mile distance. Shuttle vans back to Telluride are available following the ride for $35.
This year, all M2D participants will be chip timed, and while there has always been friendly-butfierce competition at the front, the addition of cash prizes for the top three female and male finishers
of the 133-mile course will add a new element of motivation. Still, “M2D is a ride, not a race,”
maintains Race Director Josephine Fallenius. “We want it to be accessible to all levels of cyclists.” For more information on the M2D Ride, which offers starts in downtown Telluride and in
Norwood, along with a finish line feast complete with beer, ice cream and live music at the visually
stunning Gateway Canyons Resort, visit m2dbikeride.com or call 970-728-4454. July / August 2013
Places
Salida — Unlocking the Banana Belt
By Darren Dencklau
T
here is certainly no shortage of mountain towns populated by adrenaline-fueled folks seeking
adventure. One such place can be found at 7,000 feet in central Colorado’s Upper Arkansas
Valley. Established in 1880, Salida was part of the link that connected the Denver and Rio Grande
Western Railroad. With residents numbering around 5,500, it is the largest city in Chaffee County
and has become an inviting place to live, far away from the clutter and development of other areas
in Colorado, and draws visitors from around the state and the globe.
Downtown Salida boasts the largest historical district in Colorado and its Victorian atmosphere
coupled with a plethora of quality restaurants, art galleries and stores add to its allure. Residents
are very active at preserving these landmark buildings and City Council appoints members to the
town’s Historic Preservation Commission to ensure downtown retains its past.
To the west of Salida lies one of the most majestic mountain chains found in all of Colorado.
The Collegiate Peaks, located within the Sawatch Range, boasts nine giants that top out at more
than 14,000 feet. Mount Harvard is the tallest at 14,421 feet, and is the fourth highest in the
Contiguous U.S.
Overlooking the town. Photo by DangerousCircus.com
Recreation is heavy on the minds of both locals and tourists and activities such as hiking, world
class rafting, kayaking, fishing and skiing make Salida a hotspot for roaming and playing. Of course,
bicycling is also very much on the agenda, as the famed Monarch Crest Trail is undoubtedly one
of the most popular mountain bike rides in the country.
The Monarch Crest Trail is a must do when visiting. From the start at Monarch Pass the trail
climbs up to the Continental Divide and then descends roughly 4,000 feet back towards town.
Throughout the ride there are amazing views of the surrounding mountains, aspen groves, pine
forests and more. This mostly singletrack ride is truly a classic and can easily be combined with
Silver Creek Trail and the Rainbow Trail to provide a five- to seven-hour outing. Shuttle services
are available from several companies in town. For the truly adventurous, there’s always the hard
way — ride to the trailhead via Highway 50 — although this may not be as fun for most due to the
busy road and slim shoulders.
Another extraordinary ride is a section of the Colorado Trail (CT) from Mount Princeton to
South Cottonwood Creek. This “technically moderate” portion of the CT is a popular 17-mile
July / August 2013 jaunt that stacks up against any of the classics
littered throughout the region.
Speaking of the Colorado Trail, the Colorado
Trail Race (CTR) is fast becoming a legendary
event that starts outside of Denver and ends in
Durango 500 miles later. Salida is a popular spot
for racers to stock up on supplies and get their
bikes worked on at places like Absolute Bikes,
Salida Bike Co., and SubCulture Cyclery. Tour
Divide (a 2,745-mile self-supported race from
Canada to Mexico along the Continental Divide
Trail) racers also come through town and riders
use many of the same services offered by the
shops and local stores. It’s safe to say that Salida
businesses know a thing or two about how to take
care of the “epics.”
Salida Mountain Trails, a local non-profit
all-volunteer group devoted to the area’s nonmotorized trails, spends its time constructing,
improving and maintaining trails located north
and south of town. In the past, many of the “town
trails” were a rough network that was haphazardly
connected, often illegal and unsustainable. The
group works with the Bureau of Land Management and the City of Salida to plan out trails that
are sensible and ensure a solid user experience
while helping create improvements to existing
trails such as mapping and signing them. The
group has built more than 30 miles of new trails
in the past eight years.
All this talk about mountain bikes may detract from the road riding possibilities, but don’t
be fooled. The Arkansas Valley offers a host of
alternatives to get one’s asphalt fix on the area’s
numerous county roads. Popular routes include
Poncha Pass, Cottonwood Pass and the Valley
Loop. When in doubt, stop into a shop and ask
those in the know.
There are a number of organized events
based out of Salida that showcase both the roads
and trails. The Salida Classic (July 26-28) is a
multi-day stage race, which includes a time trial,
criterium and road race. The Prestige Imports
Vuelta a Salida (August 17) is a fondo-style event
featuring 20-, 60-, or 100-mile route options.
Off-road, there are several happenings to check
out. For the serious adventurers, the Vapor Trail
125 (September 7-8) is a high altitude marathon
ride that begins at 10 — at night — and then
continues well into the following day; with more
than 20,000 feet of climbing, it’s not for the faint
Monarch Crest Trail. Photo by Darren Dencklau
of heart, but the rewards are riding some of the
best singletrack around and seeing some way
out of the way places in the process. Monarch
Crest Crank will celebrate its 15th anniversary
on September 1. This fundraising event for
the Alliance Against Domestic Abuse features
guided rides and shuttles to the Monarch Crest
Trail and the Salida Mountain Trails, as well as
festivities including a cruiser tour for the nonmountain bikers. New this year is the Salida
Bikefest (September 11-15), which will feature
fun for the entire family with group rides, a film
festival, pump track competition, bike parade,
live music and more.
Visitors can find plenty of motels and hotels
in town and just outside of the city. There is also
ample camping in the mountains near Mount
Princeton and along the rivers. Closer to Buena
Vista to the north, great campsites and RV parks
are available as well.
With plenty of sunshine, friendly locals, rivers, restaurants and majestic views of spectacular
mountains, there’s something for all cyclists and
their families to do in Salida. Bring the bikes,
boats, fishing rods, sunscreen and a sense of
adventure. It will take a while to fully explore the
gems of the Arkansas Valley, but if you have the
time, patience and persistence, there’s a world
of opportunity to keep you busy.
Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper l 5
Health
Fluid vs. Electrolytes
By Ellen Chow, MS, RD, CSSD, CD
T
here is certainly no lack of hydration advice for endurance sports in the media.
There is also no shortage of products on the
market claiming to provide hydration solutions.
However, I continue to encounter many athletes who are at a loss with their own needs.
While clinical dehydration is often presented
with thirst, nausea, lack of sweat and urine output, and even delirium; the symptoms of mild
and subclinical dehydration are less consistent.
It is not uncommon for athletes with mild dehydration to experience gastrointestinal cramps,
muscle cramps, poor energy, and regular to
excessive urination. How can one distinguish
between the need for hydration versus electrolytes?
Simply put, one needs to consume 150 percent
of all fluid loss to fully replenish. One way to
assess fluid loss is to weight in before and after a
training session, then convert the difference into
ounces (1 pound = 16 ounces) and add the ounces
of fluid consumed during exercise. For example,
three pounds of weight difference plus 32 oz. of
sports drinks consumed totals 90 oz. of fluid loss.
This indicates that an intake of 135 oz. of liquid
is required and needs to
be taken within a
window of one
hour before to
four hours after
training. Typically, I ask my clients
to consume 16 to
20 oz. of fluid an
hour before training, allowing time to
void. During a ride or
run, consume 6 to 8 oz of fluid
every 15 to 20 minutes throughout. Any remaining amount can be consumed within four hours
afterward. Symptoms of dehydration generally
appear when the body is about 50 oz. short of
the amount of liquids it needs.
While this sounds straightforward, many
athletes expressed concerns about the challenge
of consuming such amount of fluid, or simply
carrying it. In addition, given the marketing of
sports drinks and electrolyte tablets, the athletic
minorities who do not fit into the formulated mode
are left to “guestimate” their personal needs.
This method sometimes leads to frustration and
self doubt that undermine the joy of the sport.
Unlike fluid estimates, electrolytes are trickier.
Not only do electrolyte needs vary among individuals, but few of us will have access to formal
evaluations for sweat and urine content in
relation to sport performance. It is therefore a
careful and calculated experimentation during
training season that will help to fine tune the
amount required.
Sports Drinks, and Gels
Water is the perfect beverage when exercising
for less than an hour in moderate temperatures.
This may be routine conditioning, gym workouts,
light rides and runs, and leisure activities.
Sports drinks provide water, carbohydrates,
and electrolytes in a pre-formulated amount.
Depending on the athlete’s
carbohydrate need, which is
typically 30 to 60
grams per hour
during training,
one can dilute the
drink or add carbohydrates (refer
to July 2012 article on homemade
sports drinks).
Sports gels contain carbohydrates, electrolytes, and
minimal amounts of water. These can be used
to increase energy content in sports drinks or
consume alone when energy needs exceed hydration needs.
If tolerated, solid foods are also a good source of carbohydrates. Note that fructose from fruits
and fruit juices is not, however, an ideal source for endurance sports. Fruits that are higher in
glucose include dates, figs, bananas, mangoes, and a few others.
Electrolytes
Signs of electrolyte imbalance include nausea, vomiting, thirst, excessive urination, gastric
cramps, muscle cramps, weakness, or any combination thereof. These symptoms are very similar,
if not identical to those of dehydration. Electrolytes hold onto water through osmosis, while water
follows sodium to stay in or out of cells.
Athletes who are more than two percent dehydrated by body weight, yet producing urine, may
try to increase electrolyte intake. Electrolyte levels surrounding athletic performance and safety
are not to be confused with fasting blood chemistry at physical examinations. Albeit important,
subclinical imbalances can be effectively corrected by food and fluid intake in most healthy people.
Athletes who struggle with gastrointestinal discomforts and hydration should consider working with
a sports dietitian or athletic trainer for a personally tailored intake schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
“It’s hard to drink that much!”
For some people, it is. Set a timer on your watch and start with 4 oz. every 20 minutes and
gradually work up to as much as 8 oz. every 15 minutes, depending on your needs. Keep in mind
that when electrolytes are balanced, the body naturally adjusts and minimize urine output. Experiment with taste and temperature of your beverage during training.
“How can I bring that much fluid?”
If you have a stronger and more fit training partner who can help carry extra fluid, accept the
favor. If your riding or running path has drinking fountains along the way, take advantage of them.
If you can store more fluid in your car and incorporate the stop en route, do so or cache the bottle
on your training circuit in advance. Hydration backpacks are also popular and can hold up to 100
oz. of fluid, which should be plenty for most athletes, especially given the pre-training hydration
of 16 to 20 oz.
“But I used to be fine”
It is unclear if symptoms are affected by age, sex, experience, ambient temperature, and other
factors. My advice is that when an athlete is experiencing discomfort, it needs to be addressed.
“Should I stop using caffeine?”
Scientific data suggests that it is the change in caffeine consumption rather than the amount
that affects each person’s metabolism. In other words, regular intake is unlikely to have a significant
impact compared to occasional ingestion if you already drink coffee on a regular basis.
According to the American College of Sports Medicine, “Caffeine has a modest diuretic effect
on some individuals but does not effect water replacement in habitual caffeine users...” However,
it may be worth experimenting to find out if you could benefit without caffeine. It should be a
personal choice.
Drink up, train safe, and ride with confidence.
Ellen is a Seattle-based sports and wellness nutritionist. She works with athletes of all ages. She also works
extensively with athletes who have stable cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Ellen can be contacted at
endgamenutrition.com.
Mountain Biking
“White Ranch” FROM PAGE 1
as, due to its proximity to the Front Range, hikers and bikers most commonly use it. Although it is
quite beautiful, you will have to contend with the dreaded Belcher Hill Trail. This trail alone accounts for many of the poor reviews, as it is an unrelenting uphill slog with many rocky technical
sections that require a fair amount of hike-a-bike. Cyclists with more of a recreational approach
will find the back door far more welcoming.
The west access point is located approximately five miles up Golden Gate Canyon Road where
it intersects Crawford Gulch Road. Turn right and continue for about four more miles to arrive at
one of the two westerly parking lots. Either of them will provide one of the most rewarding views
overlooking eastern Colorado. From this point riders can access moderately easy mountain biking
trails with rolling terrain, awesome vistas and limited climbing. By utilizing the Rawhide, Waterhole,
Wranglers Run, Sawmill and Maverick Trails, one can create an 8-mile loop cruising through beautiful grassland and alpine-forested areas. If still wanting more, adding a short 0.8-mile section of
the top of Belcher Hill Trail provides a taste of the dreaded climb. This section leads to the upper
western parking lot and returns down along the main park road to the lower lot.
All of the aforementioned trails are located on the backside of the Open Space Park where
the biking is easier. Riders should be aware that as they descend towards the front side, the trails
become increasingly challenging and include climbing and technical sections. Please remember
that when riding from the backside of the park, every foot lost in elevation during the descent must
be regained when returning to your vehicle. The trails located in this area intersect with the lower
sections of Belcher Hill Trail and are both gorgeous and tough. All of these are exposed to sun
almost exclusively except the Shorthorn Trail and portions of Mustang Trail. With lots of hard
climbing and most likely some walking involved, riders will need plenty of sunscreen, food and water.
Two of the front side trails, Longhorn and Belcher Hill, deserve a shout out. The Longhorn
Trail, which consists of a series of strenuous uphill ridges, is really a perfect fit for any cross-fit
enthusiast, as the cardio workout is as much as one can take. The views overlook Ralston Reservoir
6 l Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper
and the sweeping expanse northwesterly over the
Rocky Flats National Wildlife Refuge. Last but
not least is the Belcher Hill Trail, which leads
from White Ranch’s front door to the top of
the knoll located near the back door — a 1,700
vertical foot climb over 3.6 miles. Belcher is best
suited for advanced cyclists but can be conquered
by those intermediate riders in good shape with
lots of determination. For those looking for a
real mountain bike challenge, this is it. This very
steep trail is littered from one end to the other
with softball sized, and larger, rocks. Technical
skills and endurance will be tested.
For all the hard knocks this trail receives, it
probably deserves it. Many riders have a tale or
a scar from Belcher Hill. On the other hand,
some folks never even got past the second full
switchback before turning back. Those who just
turned around never to return are truly missing
one of the best rides in the vicinity. While White
Ranch Open Space Park may not be exactly over
the bridge and through the woods like Grandma’s
house, it can be just as welcoming. Just remember,
there are plenty of other rides to be enjoyed, just
use the back door and get out there.
Ride on.
Longhaul Trail. Photo by Paul Keiler
July / August 2013
Community
Fostering Fitness and Fun in Colorado Springs
By Katherine Moncure
I
n Colorado Springs, a six-mile destination ride. Kids earn their bikes
the Kids on Bikes by participating in all of the sessions, showing
organization is mak- responsibility and respect in becoming a Bike
ing a strong impact in Ambassador, and demonstrating what they have
bringing the joy of bi- learned in the program.”
cycling to kids who normally would not be out
After eight weeks, the program concludes with
and riding around. Paige Carmichael founded a family celebration ride when each participant is
the group in 2005 with the aim of reversing the provided with their bike, helmet, lock, pump and
trend of childhood obesity and encouraging flat tire repair kit. The event lets them show off
kids to lead a healthy lifestyle, yet along the way their knowledge and parents can have fun riding
she discovered that cycling is much more than along on loaner bikes provided by Kids on Bikes.
healthy living — it can be instrumental in creatIn order to keep these new owners cycling,
ing strong communities. Out of this knowledge Kids on Bikes recognized the importance
arose three main priof continuous bike
orities that shape the
maintenance. With
organization: to give
that in mind, they
kids access to roadare launching a new
ready bikes, to educate
program called Bikekids and their families
Mobile, basically a
on bike safety and
travelling repair shop
healthy living, and to
where volunteer mecreate a community
chanics visit various
through cycling.
neighborhood parks
Despite the fact
and public events and
that Carmichael is no
host free bike clinics,
longer running the ormake repairs, and
ganization she remains
lead participants on a
involved as the Board’s
short ride. BikeMobile
Vice President. The
comes equipped with
current head, Nikki
a fleet of bikes that
McComsey, has the
are loaned to those
same positive attitude.
that need one to join
Keeping it in the family. Photo by FC Bikes
The former corporate
in the day’s activities.
accountant was drawn to the organization by All supplies are free thanks to donations from a
the idea of making a difference and she initially specialized grant and the support of Pro Cycling.
got involved at the volunteer level. When she
“One of the biggest hurdles to life-long bike
discovered the opening for the Executive Direc- riding is the ability to keep your bike in good
tor position, she made a career out of it. Now, repair. For lower-income families, this is a major
she and Daniel Byrd make up the staff and roadblock because they often cannot afford to
work along with 12 members of the Board who take a bike into the shop or to even purchase a
provide support.
new tube. It is a simple way that we can allow
“I remembered the long days that I would kids and families to keep riding their bikes for a
spend on a bike as a kid and wanted to make sure really long time,” notes McComsey.
that all kids have that opportunity,” McComsey
In addition to making cycling more accessays as she reflects on her decision to join the sible, Kids on Bikes also provides several services
organization.
including weekly summer rides that give everyone
Because she shares the same passions as Car- a chance to roam the Pikes Peak Greenway Trail
michael, the organization’s initial three priorities among others. Monthly special events are planned
remain a key driving force behind the services to educate family members about various facets
Kids on Bikes currently provides while aiming of cycling. On July 14 a session called “Towing
to make biking accessible for all children, from Your Child by Bike” will explain safety measures
well-off families to others who cannot afford to to parents who want to bring their toddlers along
own a bike.
for rides. On August 11 “On-Street Biking as a
It all starts with their signature program, Family”, a group ride with periodic safety tips,
Earn-a-Bike, which serves children from regions will provide participants with better preparation
where 75% of the families qualify for free and for getting around. Finally, on September 15,
reduced lunches at school. The program teaches the Family Fix a Flat Class will teach attendees
how to fix flats and other simple maintenance; it the step-by-step way to repair a flat tire. All of
also covers safety and skills. This year, the number these events are free and take place between 1
of Earn-a-Bike sites has increased from four to p.m. and 3 p.m. at America the Beautiful Park.
six and as McComsey says, this program “is what
The organization will also host three Mounwe are really passionate about.” After identifying tain Bike Day Camps for kids aged six through
low-income areas with neighborhoods that are twelve. Presented at Bear Creek Park on June
bike-accessible, the program runs for eight weeks 24-28, July 15-19, and July 29-August 2, these are
and teaches kids between third and fifth grade intended for kids of all levels who are able to ride
to become “Bike Ambassadors”.
unassisted. Although the camp cost $250 for the
McComsey says, “A Bike Ambassador is some- week, Kids on Bikes continues its commitment
one who can model safety on his or her bike, has to making biking accessible for all by offering a
bike handling skills, wears a helmet, knows the Camper Scholarship, which can reduce the price
rules of the road, and promotes biking to others. to $25 for those who qualify.
We bring a fleet of bikes to the program site and
Something else to look forward to is the
allow the kids hands-on biking time building up to annual Kids on Bikes Festival and Adventure
July / August 2013 Every kid deserves a bike. Photo by Bicycle Paper
Duathlon. Scheduled for August 25 at America the Beautiful Park, it will feature the Adventure
Duathlon race — a part running, part biking obstacle course. Other activities include a kids bike
swap, family bike fleet demo, safety demos, and non-cycling related activities including a bounce
house, face painting, food trucks, and more.
Beneath all the different programs, events, and services, one consistent theme remains: the
future growth of the organization. As McComsey states, “We want to set these kids up for success.”
In order to accomplish this however, Kids on Bikes can only exist with help from the public. “We
have had a huge outpouring of support from the community,” she adds. The increase in services is
only one sign of the expanding growth the organization has been experiencing.
With expansion comes a need to get more people involved, whether its volunteers or sponsors.
“We are the only organization of our kind in Colorado Springs, so we have to fulfill many roles,”
McComsey remarks.
The organization is accepting contributions and provides donation packages to fit every budget
from the $50 Bike Toolkit to the $5,000 Neighborhood Sponsor. Donors can also contribute $25
monthly to sponsor a kid in the Earn-a-Bike program. Numerous volunteer opportunities are available to help kids feel the joy of riding a bike while building the community. Visit kidsonbikes.net
or contact the organization at 719-355-3573 for detailed information.
Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper l 7
Development
Durango DEVO and the Sweet Elite
By Darren Dencklau aka “the claw” and Pamela Stewart
I
t’s no secret that Durango, Colo., produces some world-class athletes. When you mention the
location and its biking heritage, names like Ned Overend, Travis Brown, John Tomac, Greg
Herbold and Ruthie Matthis are often brought up in the conversation. The area offers some of the
best mountain biking trails in the country and its close proximity to Moab and Fruita make it an
ideal place to ride. Durango is also home to Fort Lewis College, which has an impressive cycling
program and 18 National Championships to brag about. Additionally, in the past few years there
has been a surge of red-and-black-clad young cyclists seen riding around town and showing up at
local and national races. These are the members of Durango DEVO.
The Sweet Elite team with Greg Herbold (l) and coach Chad Cheeney (r). Photo courtesy of Chad Cheeney
Founded in 2006 by Chad Cheeney and Sarah Tescher, the Durango Junior Development (DEVO)
Mountain Bike Team has grown into an entity that surpasses the traditional team atmosphere and
features programs for children ranging from pre-school age all the way up to 25 years. The 501(c)3
nonprofit’s mission is to give its participants experience in a team setting while developing them
into lifelong cyclists. With alumni including pro racers Teal Stetson-Lee and Howard Grotts – who
recently won the men’s Pro division at the 2013 Vail Mountain Games – and Tad Elliott, now a
member of the U.S. Olympic’s Cross Country Skiing Team, they are a force to be reckoned with.
Currently there are around 300 kids taught by 40 different DEVO coaches. Programs include:
DEVO Push Bike, Stryder (ages 2-4), DEVO Jr. (nine groups from pre-school to 5th graders),
Explorers Club, DEVO Flyers, DEVO Cyclocrossers, Boys and Girls U-14, Boys and Girls U-19,
Sweet Elite U-25, and two different high school teams that compete in the Colorado High School
Cycling League. In addition, the organization also offers summer camps that focus on disciplines
as varied as downhill riding to bike touring and even bike polo.
All coaches are “DEVO-trained” and are certified first aid responders. Many of them are accomplished cyclists, including national champions Elke Brutsaert, Alicia Rose Pastore, and Howard
Grotts. Head Coaches Cheeney and Tescher are also accomplished multi-disciplined racers. The
talent from the top down is quite impressive.
News
North to Join BikeDenver
Following an extensive national search,
BikeDenver’s Board of Directors announced on
May 29 that Molly North would become the organization’s new Executive Director, effective July 1.
BikeDenver Board Chair David Cowan writes:
“Molly is a passionate advocate for bicycling. She
is a daily bicycle commuter, a mountain bike racer,
a bicycle safety educator and coalition builder who
understands the many facets of bicycling and can
represent these diverse interests to stakeholders
and city officials. Molly believes in the bike as
a great form of transportation and recreation,
and an exciting expression of freedom. She is an
“always-on” advocate for better bicycling.”
Molly North added: “I am thrilled to have
the opportunity to lead BikeDenver and write
the next chapter in the Mile High City through
education, advocacy and coalition building. I look
10 l Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper
forward to collaborating with business partners,
Denver City staff, and all the bicyclists who pedal
on the city streets and trails. I recognize that I
have big shoes to fill and I’m honored to have
been selected for the job.”
North most recently served as the bicycle
coordinator for the City of Fort Collins where
she developed a depth of expertise in bicycle
education, infrastructure and advocacy. In her
three years with the program, she applied for and
received $1.6 million in grant funding for bicycling, launched the Bicycle Ambassador Program,
worked closely with City Council, and managed
a team of staff and volunteers. She also helped
craft City Council-adopted Master Plans and
implemented a robust work plan that ultimately
led to Fort Collins’ designation as a Platinum
level Bicycle Friendly Community in May 2013.
There are several options for programs that
focus more on fun and skill building as opposed
to competition. The Explorers Club, for instance,
sees coaches taking youngsters on overnight and
multi-day trips to mountain and desert locations
like Valley of the Gods in southeastern Utah. Also,
summer camps begin in early June and typically
sell out due to their popularity.
As the program and number of riders grew,
Cheeney launched The Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory Durango DEVO Sweet Elite team
in 2011 in order to respond to those who were
ready to move up to the elite level of mountain
bike racing. With the help of the community and
its sponsors, they are able to travel and compete
regionally and nationally. Current members
include Sarah Sturn, Lauren Catlin, Payson
McElveen, Sepp Kuss, Stephan Davoust and
KayLee Blevins.
Title sponsorship for the Sweet Elite comes
from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory, which
was founded in Durango in 1981. Other local
sponsors include Mercy Regional Medical Center,
Durango Orthopedics, Spine Colorado, Tailwind
Nutrition, King Cage, Fort Lewis College and the
team’s Specialized S-Works bikes are serviced by
Mountain Bike Specialists.
To be a member of the Sweet Elite, racers
have to either be graduates of the DEVO program, Fort Lewis College, or reside in Durango,
meaning they primarily “hire from within.” With
a team steering committee that includes the likes
of World Champion Ned Overend and Chris
Wherry, they are undoubtedly a squad to look
out for wherever they go.
Since its inception, the team has already won
several national championship titles and produced
a collegiate national champion with cross-country
and short track racer Lauren Caitlin. Kuss is
also the Colorado High School League’s State
Champion. More recently, on May 11 of this
year, Kuss, McElveen and Davoust motored
their team to win the male 3-4 category at the
12 Hours of Mesa Verde, proving that members
of Sweet Elite train to win.
Weekly the team meets with team manager
and coach Cheeney, who also takes care of their
race schedule, logistics, marketing, public relations and is the de facto chauffer for the Sweet
On the road again. Photo courtesy of Chad Cheeney
Elite. He also races at many of the events, adding
to his already insanely busy itinerary.
In addition to their rigorous training and
racing schedule, the team gives back to the community by mentoring younger riders from the
DEVO program, Fort Lewis College and local
stand-outs. Racing is certainly the chief focus, but
the primary objective is to help build life skills and
assist in the transition from youth to adulthood.
Tescher and Cheeney also volunteer time to the
Adaptive Sports Association, an organization
that works with students that have physical and
cognitive challenges.
The majority of the funds needed to run
DEVO comes from registration dues paid for by
participants and their parents and generally range
from $50 for push bike sessions to $675 for full
season options. That said, there is also a DEVO
Fan Club that accepts donations from the public.
Options include “DEVO Groupie” ($25), DEVO
Star ($100), DEVO Super Star ($250), and “Ultimate Fan” ($500). Donors receive goodies such
as stickers, T-shirts, jerseys, and more depending
on the level of their contribution.
According to Cheeney, DEVO and Sweet
Elite have a bright future, drawing continued
involvement from the Durango community to
support the local talent and youth rising through
the ranks of the program. The team is very grateful to its sponsors, without whom it would not be
able to compete with other well-funded teams in
the country. They will continue to gain recognition and therefore draw talent and inquiries from
others that want to get involved.
For more information, photos, videos and
ways to support, visit durangodevo.com.
Mini Classic – Wrap Up
Junior racers were in the spotlights on
May 25-27 in Silt, Colo., as they competed in
the three-day omnium Colorado Mini Classic.
Overall 135 cyclists from 12 states as well as
Brazil and Kuwait attended the Colorado River
Valley event. The opening out and back time
trial, was followed by a challenging road race
and concluded with a technically challenging
8-corner criterium.
The winners in each category were: Zane
Worrell, Vail (JM 10-12), Tea Wright, Boulder
(JW 10-12), Nolan Herzog, Avon (JM 13-14),
Katie Clouse, Park City (JW 13-14), Gage Hecht,
Parker, (JM 15-16), Marta Morris, Grand Junction
(JW 15-16), Ian McPherson, Boulder (JM 17-18),
Laurel Rathbun, Monument, (Girls 17-18) and
Dean Hass, Lakewood (U23).
Awards ceremonies at the Mini Classic recognize
the accomplishments of the talented up and
coming generation of racers.
Photo courtesy of BRAC
May / June 2013
Calendar
Welcome to the Region’s Most
Comprehensive Bicycle Calendar
All events are listed chronologically within their respective sections: Events (clinics, expositions, lectures, etc.), Camps,
Multisport (events that include cycling as part of the competition), Series (competitions where cumulative point standings
are awarded), Cyclocross, Mountain Bike Racing (competition featuring singletrack and other off-road riding), Mountain
Bike Touring (rides featuring singletrack and off-road riding), Road Racing (bicycle competition), Road Touring (road rides of
various distances and for any type of bicycle), Track (velodrome-type events). To conserve space, we’ve chosen to run websites
only on events where both website and email are available. If you are an organizer and your event is not listed, or if the information listed changes, contact us and we will gladly update the calendar. Please send your event information in the same
style and format seen here.
All aspects of this event calendar are copyright 2013 Bicycle Paper. This calendar may not be transmitted or reproduced
by any means, electronically or printed, without written consent of the publisher.
Camps
August
Aug 2–4: BetterRide MTB Skills Camp
Moab, UT. BetterRide’s team of professional
coaches is dedicated to teaching riders of all
levels the skills to ride in balance, in control &
have more fun on their bikes. Gene Hamilton,
BetterRide, 970-335-8226, betterride.net
September
Sep 27–29: BRAC Junior
Cyclocross Camp
TDB, CO. Chris McGee, 303-278-8609,
coloradocycling.org
Multisport
July
Jul 6: Cache Valley’s Super
Sprint Triathlon
Logan, UT. 8th annual. Short distances, course is
flat and straight in Logan City. Swim is in Logan
Aquatic Center 500 Meters, bike is out and back
on farm roads, and run is out and back in a park
area with trees and stream. Joe Coles,
801-335-4940, cvsst.org
Jul 6: Gallup Triathlon
Gallup, NM. Pool swim 375 yards, bike 20m,
run 5km. Team of 3 or solo with multiple age
groups. Family noncompetitive version. karla,
505-879-8812, galluptriathlon.com
Jul 6: Rigby Triathlon
Rigby Lake, UT. Sprint and Olympic distance
triathlon. Michael Hayes, 208-521-2243,
pb-performance.com
Jul 8: Daybreak Tri
Salt Lake City, UT. Get ready for the best spectator swim a round, a killer bike course near the
Oquirrh Mountains and a run that is unparalleled.
Cody Ford, US Trisports Race Mangement, LLC,
801-558-2503, ustrisports.com
Jul 13: Blanding Hillman Triathlon
Blanding, UT. Swim .50 mile, bike 15 miles, run
3.2 miles, (kids’ triathlon July 20). Recapture Reservoir. Starts 7am. Stephen Olsen, 801-243-3559,
hillmantriathlon.info
Jul 13: Leadville Silver Rush 50
Leadville, CO. 50-mile out-and-back at high altitude in Leadville’s historic east side mining district.
Route is extreme. 8-hour time limit. 50-mile run the
next day with 14-hr limit to claim Silver King and
Queen titles. Qualifier for Leadville 100.
Josh Colley, Lifetime - Leadville Race Series,
719-219-9351, leadvilleraceseries.com
Jul 13: REI TriRock Colorado
Aurora, CO. New event. Presented at the
Aurora Reservoir 30 minutes southeast of Denver.
Start on the beach, bike through meadows, run
along the lake and finish at the recreation area
finish venue with all the amenities that you need.
Competitor Group, Inc., 858-450-6510,
trirock.competitor.com
Jul 13–14: Silver King & Queen
Leadville, CO. Back-to-back 50-mile Silver Rush
MTB race followed by Silver Rush 50 Run the next
day. Josh Colley, Lifetime - Leadville Race Series,
719-219-9351, leadvilleraceseries.com
Jul 13: Ski Run Road Challenge
Ruidoso, NM. Start at Eagle Creek Sports
Complex. Benefits the Ski Apache Adaptive
Skier Program. Frederic Moras, 575-257-9507,
skirunroadchallenge.com
Jul 13: TriUtah Echo Triathlon
Coalville, UT. Warm July temperatures, a scenic
ride in Utah’s unique Echo Canyon, and a run on
the Historic Rail Trail. The perfect event for both
seasoned athletes and beginners. Dan Aamodt,
TriUtah, 801-635-8966, triutah.com
Jul 20: Xterra Mountain
Championships
Avon, CO. The last of four regionals in the
XTERRA America Tour, features Sprint and
Championship distance. Raena Cassidy,
877-751-8880, xterraplanet.com
Jul 27: Bear Lake
Garden City, UT. The first race of the Twin Tri
series at Sand Hollow State Park, with Sprint,
Olympic, and Kids’ distances. Cedric Keppler,
318-518-7303, bbsctri.com
July / August 2013 Jul 27: Hurt in the Dirt
Ogden, UT. Offroad duathlon at Ft. Buenaventura. Individuals and relay teams welcome.
MTB race and trail run combined. 3 full events
in one day. Goal Foundation, 801-399-1773,
hurtinthedirt.com
Jul 27: Layton Triathlon
Layton, UT. Sprint, mini spring, relay spring, and
kids triathlon options in the Layton Surf N Swim
and Layton City Parks. Great event that repeats
the entire course on the Sprint. Joe Coles, On Hill
Events, 801-335-4940, laytontriathlon.com
Jul 27: Mountain Tropic Triathlon
Garden City, UT. Experience the “Caribbean of
the Rockies” at the first race of the Trifecta Series
at Bear Lake State Park; Sprint, Olympic, and
Half distances. Cedric Keppler, 318-518-7303,
bbsctri.com
Jul 27: Xterra Indian Peaks
Boulder, CO. At Eldora Resort. Paul Karlsson,
303-960-8129, digdeepsports.com
August
Aug 2: Ultimate Relay Triathlon
Ogden, UT. Friday - single-day triathlon relay
covering over 126.5 miles of northern Utah’s best
water, roads, and trails. Four ultimate swims, four
ultimate bike rides, and four ultimate trail runs.
Teams will consist of 3 to 6 athletes and as many
spectators as you can fit into 2 vehicles.
Dan Aamodt, 801-635-8966, triutah.com
Aug 3: Aspen Triathlon and Duathlon
Aspen, CO. 800-yard indoor swim, 17-mile bike
(gaining 1500’ in elevation) to Maroon Bells,
4-mile run in Elk Mtn range and Maroon Creek
Valley. USAT sanctioned event. Sandra Doebler,
970-920-5140, aspenrecreation.com
Aug 10: Columbia Muddy
Buddy Boulder
Boulder, CO. 2 mudslinging competitors, 1 bike,
team trail run and ride, fun obstacles, costume
contest, world famous mud pit and beer garden.
Total distance 6-7 miles. Competitor Group, Inc.,
800-311-1255, muddy-buddy.competitor.com
Aug 10: Herriman Escape
from Black Ridge Tri
Herriman, UT. The Escape from Blackridge is fast
and fun! Athletes swim 500 yds in the reservoir,
ride a 14-mile bike and run a 5k loop. Aaron
Shamy, 801-518-4541, racetri.com
Aug 11: Adventure Xstream Summit County
Copper Mtn Resort, CO. Sport (6-12hrs) courses.
Kayak, trek, rappel, mountain bike. Solo, 2-person teams. Will Newcomer, Gravity Play Sports
Marketing, 970-403-5320, gravityplay.com
Aug 13–18: TransRockies Run
obstacles over 3.02 miles at Copper Mountain Ski
Resort. 312-980-9983, warriordash.com
Aug 18: Steamboat Stinger Trail Marathon
Steamboat Springs, CO. 25- or 50-mile epic race
with a touch of western flair. 90% singletrack. Start
at Howelson Hill Ski Area going twice around a 25mile loop. Saturday MTB race, do both and go for
the King Sting or Queen Bee titles. Honey Stinger,
866-464-6639, honeystinger.com
Aug 23–24: Uinta Mountain
Adventure Relay
Heber, UT. Running, mountain biking, cycling and a
leg of canoeing make the Uinta Mountain Adventure
Relay one of the highest, toughest, yet most beautiful
relays around. Jon Johnson, 801-367-2575,
uintamountainadventurerelay.com
Aug 24: Little Cottonwood
Adventure Race
South Jordan, UT. Graffiti Racing presents a
multi-sport endurance event featuring mountain
bikes, running/trekking, Tyrolean Traverse, and
navigation using a map and a compass to attain
check points. Snowbird will be a multi-discipline
race using urban paved trails and wilderness trails
to travel a course covering approximately 25-50
miles in a 6 hour period. Scott Browning,
801-867-5039, graffitiracing.com
Aug 24: Oyster Race
Denver, CO. The original urban adventure race.
Combining athleticism & intelligence, this ball
buster of a race will have you running, biking,
completing awesome challenges. Team event.10-30
miles over 2-6 hours. Emily Salberg, Team Player
Productions, 877-328-2783, oysterracingseries.com
Aug 24: Utah Half Triathlon
Provo, UT. Longest multisport race on the Wasatch
Front. 70.3 Ironman. 1.2-mile swim, 56-mile bike,
and 13.1-mile run triathlon. Aaron Shamy, Racetri
Event Series, 801-518-4541, racetri.com
Aug 24: Xterra Buffalo Creek
Fort Collins, CO. 1500m swim in the clear waters
of Lake Wellington, then 22-mile MTB ride.
Double track, a few jeep roads, and some IMBA
Epic rated singletrack. 5-mile run on hilly terrain
that circumnavigates the Lake. Lance Panigutti,
Without Limits Productions, 303-408-1195, withoutlimitsracing.com
Cyclocross
July
Jul 25: Raleigh Midsummer Nights
Cyclocross Race
Deer Valley, UT. Highest and richest non-series
‘cross event. Races for Elite men and women,
category 3,4, and a “Wheelers and Dealers”
category. Part of Dealer Camp, an industry trade
show. Country’s highest ‘cross race at 7700’. Brandon Bingham, 801-726-4411, Bikedealercamp.com
with timed race sections on the descents. Moderate to advanced. Multi-day, multi-stage format.
Brandon Ontiveros, Big Mountain Enduro, LLC.,
bigmountainenduro.com
Colorado High School MTB League
Sep 8, 22; Oct 6, 20
Various, CO. Series of 4 events. Locations vary
every week. Grades 9-12 (13-19 years old),
riders are broken into 6 categories. MTB only,
no singlespeed. Race time between 45 an 120
minutes. Overall winners calculated on points.
Also team competition. Kate Rau, 720-272-9282,
coloradomtb.org
Enduro Cup
Jul 19–20
Park City, UT. Three races, crowns a series winner
based on points. Third race date and location TBD.
Daniel Roper, 801-560-6479, endurocupmtb.com
Intermountain Cup Series - ICup
Jul 6, 27; Aug 3
Various, UT, WY. 10-race series offers individual
and team competitions. Overall calculated on
points, all races count. Cash and merchandise.
Racers should carry their own health insurance.
No mechanical assistance. Individual, team and
high school competition. Marek Shon,
801-209-2479, intermountaincup.com
New Mexico Endurance Series - NMES
Jul 13; Aug 10; Sep 14, 28; Oct 19
Various, NM. 8 self-sufficient endurance hardcore
grassroots endurance MTB races. Not suited for
younger or inexperienced riders. Participants keep
track of their own time and distance. Race for bragging rights. Lenny Goodell, nmes.wordpress.com
New Mexico Off-Road Series - NMORS
Jul 21, 27–28; Aug 31; Sep 7, 15, 28; Oct 5
Various, NM. Series of 13 events run throughout the season. Open to all categories and
singlespeed. Overall calculated on points - top 8
results count, min of 5 races. Only XC races count.
Jersey for category champions. Each XC is qualifier for Nationals. Final overall series standings
determine the State Champion. David Halliburton,
575-312-5991, nmors.org
Rocky Mountain Endurance Series
Jul 14
Various, CO. Series of 6 marathon, half marathon,
XC, and half XC races. Categories: Men, women,
open. Multiple age divisions. Overall calculated
on points. Event points to top 20. Series pass available. 10% of all profits goes to various charities.
Thane Wright, Rocky Mountain Endurance,
970-401-1422, rockymountainendurance.com
Trestle Gravity Series
Jul 6–7; Aug 10–11; Sep 1–2
Winter Park, CO. 4-weekend race series at
Winter Park Resort. Traditional DH one day, Air
DH the next. Registration closes at 4pm the day
before the race. Winter Park Competition Center,
970-726-1590, epicsingletrack.com
UT Gravity Series
May 25–27; Jun 8–9; Aug 10–11
Various. Some of America’s best gravity racing.
Ron Lindley, 801-375-3231, go-ride.com
Utah High School Cycling League
Sep 8, 21; Oct 6; Nov 9
Various, UT. Series of 4 events for racers in
9th through 12th grades only. Categories for
individual scoring are Freshman, Sophomore, JV,
and Varsity. Boys and girls divisions. Team scoring
for Division I and II teams. Races start at 10am
on spectator-friendly 4- to 6-mile lap courses. Lori
Harward, 801-502-8516, utahmtb.org
Winter Park Epic Singletrack Series
Buena Vista, CO. Trail stage run. 3 days solo or
6-day team run through 120 miles of Colorado
Rockies. Starts in Buena Vista, ends in Beaver
Creek. Mix of singletrack and forest road with
25,000’ of elevation gain. Max elevation
12,500’. Limit 500. Aaron McConnell,
403-668-7537, transrockies.com
August
Aug 20: Formula Four
Leadville, CO. Sold out. 50-mile out-and-back
running race. Ultra marathon race with lowest
altitude at 9200’, highest 12, 600’. Mostly on
forest trails and some mountain roads. Mandatory
medical check in. Lifetime Fitness, 719-219-9351,
leadvilleraceseries.com
Jul 13, 27; Aug 10, 24
Winter Park, CO. 6-race series at Winter Park
Resort. Formats vary, but always include male and
female divisions. U15 to Masters 60+. Starts in
waves so race with your group. Medals awarded
to top 3 in each age class and sub-categories:
Beginner, sport, expert, and Pro. Start at 10am.
Winter Park Competition Center, 970-726-1590,
epicsingletrack.com
Aug 27: Relay Sixty
weekly
Aug 17–18: Leadville Trail 100 Run
Aug 17: Saratoga Springs Tri
Saratoga Springs, UT. USAT sanctioned Sprint Tri,
600-meter swim, 12-mile bike, 3.1-mile run, held at
the Saratoga Springs Marina at Pelican Bay, 200
E Harbor Parkway. Gave Granata,
saratogaspringstri.com
Aug 17: Triathamom
Herriman, UT. Women only triathlon at
Kearns Oquirrh Park Fitness Center, 300-yard
swim, 12-mile bike and 5km run. Dani Lassiter,
801-635-9422, gotriathamom.com
Aug 17: TriUtah Jordanelle Triathlon
TBA, CO. A different type of ‘cross race, where a
field of 80 gets whittled down through qualifying
to 10, then line up for a 1-lap race, winner takes
all. 3 waves. Lance Panigutti, Without Limits
Productions, 303-408-1195, withoutlimits.com
TBA, CO. 60-minute cyclocross relay race. Teams
of 2 to 5 people, each racer must complete one
lap. Lance Panigutti, Without Limits Productions,
303-408-1195, withoutlimits.com
Aug 27: Sierra Lake
Broomfield, CO. Tony Panigutti, Without Limits
Productions, 303-882-8304, withoutlimits.com
September
Sep 7: Kick it CX
Brighton, CO. Chris McGee, 303-278-8609,
coloradocycling.org
Sep 8: Cross of the North
TBD, CO. Timothy Lynch, 970-203-5716,
[email protected]
Park City, UT. Enjoy everything from the wildlife
and boardwalks on the river bottoms in Rock Cliff
Recreation Area at Jordanelle to the local country
backdrop of the towns of Francis and Woodland.
Special 15th Anniversary Gift to all participants.
Dan Aamodt, TriUtah, 801-635-8966, triutah.com
Mountain Bike
series
Copper Mountain, CO. Mud-crawling, fire-leaping,
extreme run on challenging and rugged terrain. 12
Jul 6–7; Aug 31–Sep 1; Sep 28–29
Various. Epic trail rides in incredible destinations
Aug 17: Warrior Dash - Colorado
Big Mountain Enduro
Tuesday
Laramie MTB Series
June 18–August 13
Laramie, WY. Series of 6 events. Start at 6pm at
Tie City parking lot. No license required. Beginner,
sport and expert classes. Courses change every
week and length varies upon category. Overall
calculated on points, total of all 6 races count,
wheelie contest tiebreaker. No race 7/2, 7/16 and
7/30. Evan O’Toole, laramiemtbseries.com
Mid-Week MTB Series
May 14–August 27
Various, UT. 8 classes, points to the top 60. All
races count towards the overall GC. Registration
begins at 5:30pm. Kids race at 6pm on a special
course, main event at 6:30. Beginners: 1 lap.
Sport: 2 laps. Pro/expert: 3 laps. Nightly drawings. Rain out option, 6/18, 7/2, 8/27. Brooke
Howard, 801-935-1092, midweekmtb.com
Wednesday
Ascent Cycling Series
June 5–July 31
Colorado Springs, CO. Series of 5 races with
categories for all ages. Weekend races are worth
10 points, starts at 9am. Weekday races at 6pm
count for 5 points. Venues: Bear Creek Terrace or
more technical Palmer Park. Singletrack, double
trails and gravel road for 2.3-mile lap. Race #4
at Cheyenne Mountain State Park on Saturday.
Lapped riders will be pulled. Must start last
race to count for overall series standings. Andy
Bohlmann, Sand Creek Sports, 719-591-4671,
sandcreeksports.com
GBS Short Track Series
May 22–July 17
Golden, CO. Series of 8 events presented at
Lookout Mtn Youth Services Center. Registration
opens at 4:30pm. 4 starts, Juniors start 5pm,
Men C and Women B at 5:25pm. Men B and
Women A at 6:05pm and Men A at 6:35pm.
Juniors race free. Lee Waldman, 720-313-5312,
goldenbikeshop.com/shorttrack
Sundance / Soldier Hollow Weekly
May 1–August 14
Sundance, UT. Wednesday nights, May - August
at 6:30pm. On July 4 race is at 9am. Venue
alternates between Soldier Hollow and Sundance.
Pros/experts 1hr race time, sport 45min, beginner
30min. Kids race at 5:30pm. Must participate
in 10 events to be eligible for season overall
points. Weekly points allocated to top 15 in each
category. Double points on 8/7. Registration
for Sundance events at Sundance Bike Shop,
Soldier Hollow Charter School for Soldier Hollow.
Weekly prizes, raffle and overalls. Mark Nelson,
435-654-1392, weeklyraceseries.com
Town Challenge Race Series
May 29–August 21
Steamboat Springs, CO. 7-race series that
includes hill climb and cross-country events. Top
15 get points each race, overall calculated on
best 6 out of 7. Multiple categories and age
groups. David Stevenson, 970-879-4300 x 355,
townchallenge.com
Zia/Devo STXC Series
April 17–July 10
Durango, CO. Weekly series for Juniors. Course
changes every week. B’s at 6pm, A’s at 6:30pm. Zia
Eliminator on 5/22, Super Duper Fun race 5/29.
Sarah Tescher, 970-779-8480, durangodevo.com
mtb Racing
July
Jul 4: Firecracker 50
Breckenridge, CO. All categories. Sparkler race
for Juniors. Beginners ride 14 miles. Field limit
750. Ride solo or with a teammate for one 25mile lap each. Climbing per lap: 5400’. Rippin’
descents and plenty of singletrack. Pro Ultra Endurance Tour (UET) event. Jeff Westcott, Maverick
Sports Promotions, 970-390-4760, mavsports.com
Jul 6–7: Big Mountain Enduro #3
Keystone, CO. Some of the most raw and rugged
lift-accessed mountain biking in the US. Rock
gardens, drops, and high-speed features. Seven
rowdy stages, non-stop festival and entertainment.
See race series for details. Big Mountain Enduro,
LLC., bigmountainenduro.com
Jul 6: Fire Road Cycling - Dirt Fondo
Cedar City, UT. 25k, 60k, 100k distances. Starts
at Main StreetPark 8am. 7000’ total elevation
gain for 100km, 4000’ for 60km. Equal prize
$ for overall men and women in the 100km.
25-qualifying slots for the Leadville 100 up for
grabs for 100km. Paul Huddle, 858-518-0042,
fireroadcycling.com
Jul 6: Test of Endurance 50/100 OXCS #10
Blodgett, OR. 100k, 14,000’ of climbing on monster course. 50 miles, 6400’, goes to Coast Range
and back. Amazing support. Limit 100. Only the
50 is part of series. Part of Oregon XC Classic
Series - OXCS. Mike Ripley, Mudslinger Events,
541-225-7946, mudslingerevents.com
Jul 6: The Rage at Snowbird - UT State
Championship - ICS #8
Snowbird, UT. Utah State Open XC Championship. Open to all, event starts at 8000’ near
Snowbird Center (entry 2). Course: 4-mile loop
with 800’ of climbing per lap. First race 8:10am
for U9, 8:30am next start. Part of Intermountain
Cup Series - ICup. intermountaincup.com
Jul 6–7: Trestle Gravity Series #2
Winter Park, CO. See race series for details.
Winter Park Competition Center, 970-726-1590,
epicsingletrack.com
Jul 7: OuterLocal Summer Games
Jackson, WY. MTB event as part of the festival.
Start 10am at Phil Baux Park at the base of
Snow King. Other events include trail running,
bouldering and paragliding, capped off with free
concerts. Jeremy Dodge
Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper l 11
Calendar
Jul 12–14: Snowmass Enduro
Snowmass, CO. 3-day, 4-stage event all on the
same bike. Epic Super D, XC, jump trail, DH. Over
8000’ of descending. 85% downhill, 15% uphill.
snowmassvillage.com
Jul 13: Bohart Bash
8:15am. Part of Intermountain Cup Series - ICup.
intermountaincup.com
Jul 27: Winter Park Epic Singletrack
Series #4 - Epic XC
Winter Park, CO. See race series for details. Winter Park Resort, 970-726-1590, epicsingletrack.com
Bozeman, MT. Alexandre Lussier, montanacycling.net
August
Chama, NM. Top of Cumbres Pass. 4 distances
- new Moonshine 100 Proof Epic of 100 miles,
Shake n Bake Epic 70 miles, Bobby Epic 50 miles
or Geezuz Epic 26 miles. Climbing varies between
3 to 10+km. See race series for details. David Burdette, NM Endurance Series, nmes.wordpress.com
Aug 2–4: Blast the Mass Gravity
Jul 13: Chama Redneck Epic - NMES #4
Jul 13: Leadville Silver Rush 50
Leadville, CO. 50-mile out-and-back at high altitude in Leadville’s historic east side mining district.
Route is extreme. 8-hour time limit. 50-mile run the
next day with 14-hr limit to claim Silver King and
Queen titles. Qualifier for Leadville 100. Josh Colley, Lifetime - Leadville Race Series, 719-219-9351,
leadvilleraceseries.com
Jul 13: The Crusher in the Tushar
Beaver, UT. A 70-mile “roadirt” race exploring
southern Utah’s Tushar Mt. range. 10,500+'. of
climbing. A perfect 50/50% split between pavement and dirt fire roads and a traverse on some
of Utah’s highest and most scenic roads. Burke
Swindelhurst, tusharcrusher.com
Jul 13: Winter Park Epic Singletrack
Series #3 - Valley Point to Point
Winter Park, CO. Start in Winter Park and finish
in Fraser following some of the valley’s best
singletrack. Beginner course 18.8 miles, full
course 23.5 miles. Start 10am, open to riders of
all abilities 8 years and older. See race series
for details. Winter Park Resort, 970-726-1590,
epicsingletrack.com
Jul 14: Breckenridge 100
(B-68 & B-32) - REM #6
Breckenridge, CO. 100-mile solo or 3-person
team. Nestled between 3 ski resorts, cloverleaf
course with 13,719’ of climbing. Shorter B-68,
B-32 available. Camping. Start at Carter Park.
B-100 or B-68 counts towards NUE RME. NUE
event. Part of Rocky Mountain Endurance Series.
Rocky Mountain Endurance, warriorscycling.com
Jul 18–21: USAC XC MTB Nationals
Bear Creek Resort, PA. usacycling.org
Jul 19–20: Wasatch Enduro
Park City, UT. At Canyons Resort. European-style
enduro race. $12,000 cash and prizes, 17 miles,
3200’ of technical descents /1300’ climbing.
Part of Enduro Cup. Ali Goulet, 801-560-6479,
endurocupmtb.com
Jul 20: High Cascades 100
Bend, OR. 100 miles, 1 loop and 75 miles that
crests at 7000’. Amazing test of fitness and riding
ability. Keep the pace to finish in 10-15 hrs. Part
of the NUE Series. Limited entry. Mike Ripley,
Mudslinger Events, 541-225-7946,
mudslingerevents.com
Jul 21: Colorado Trail Race
Durango, CO. Starts in Denver, finishes in
Durango. 470 miles, 65,000’ of elevation gain.
Start 4am, end date varies. Unsupported event.
Expert riders only. Colorado Endurance Series,
coloradoes.wordpress.com
Jul 21: Signal Peak Challenge NMORS #6
Silver City, NM. Distance varies between 8-30
miles. Two courses with 4- and 8-mile laps. Part
of New Mexico Off-Road Series - NMORS.
Nathan Shay, nmcycling.org
Jul 25–28: Colorado Freeride Festival
Winter Park, CO. Some of the best MTB riders
compete for over $45,000 in slopestyle, Enduro
World Series, air DH, XC, trials and pond crossing
events. Jerady Zunno, Winter Park Resort,
970-726-1590, coloradofreeridefestival.com
Jul 27: Butte 100
Butte, MT. 7th annual. 100-mile race with 16,000’
elevation gain. 50-mile option. 70% trails, 30%
road and jeep trails. S/F Basin Creek Reservoir
picnic area. Gina Evans, TripleRing Productions,
406-498-9653, butte100.com
Jul 27: Laramie Enduro
Laramie, WY. Challenging 72.5-mile course climbing over 8600’. All above 7500’. Singletrack, dirt
roads, experienced riders only. At Happy Jack
Recreation Area. Benefits regional non-profits.
Lottery reg opens Feb 1. Richard Vincent,
307-760-1917, laramieenduro.org
Jul 27–28: Oregon 24
Bend, OR. Mike Ripley, Mudslinger Events,
541-225-7946, mudslingerevents.com
Jul 27–28: Sandia Peak Challenge NMORS #7
Albuquerque, NM. Part of New Mexico Off-Road
Series - NMORS. Joanna Eckstein, Cystic Fibrosis
Foundation - NM, nmors.org
Jul 27: The Solitude Cup - ICS #9
Solitude Resort, UT. Course combines Cruiser
(upper) and Serenity (lower) loops. First start
Family Friendly Ride
Supports Bicycle Colorado
Commercial
Rocky Mountain Road Cup Point Scale
Bronze,
Silver,
Gold
12 l Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper
Snowmass Village, CO. Tentative. DH course
has steep sections with technical drops and high
speed wide open sections. Super D on fast dirt
road followed by great sections of singletrack.
720-407-6142, racemsc.com
Aug 2–4: USAC MTB Gravity Nationals
Angel Fire, NM. Dual slalom and downhill
events. Tony Leko, USA Cycling, 719-434-4200,
usacycling.org
Aug 3: Pierre’s Hole 50 & 100
Alta, WY. 33-mile loop is the ultimate test for a
100km/100-mile race. Each lap has over 4200’ of
climbing on mostly single and double track trails.
More singletrack added this year. Part of NUE
Series. Andy Williams, Grand Targhee Resort,
307-353-2300, grandtarghee.com
Aug 3: Reid Divide MTB Race
Whitefish, MT. 50-mile race with 25-mile option
at Tally Lake Recreation Area. Konrad Binder,
Great Northern Cycling Club, 406-862-5321,
reiddividefifty.wordpress.com
Aug 3: The Bash at Snowbasin - ICS #10
Snowbasin, UT. Series finals. 8.5-mile loop consisting of 90% wide singletrack that winds across
the lower mountain with about 1300’ of climbing
per lap. Part of Intermountain Cup Series - ICup.
intermountaincup.com
Aug 10–11: Flyin’ Brian Gravity Festival
Brian Head, UT. Downhill and Super-D.
Schedule of events TBD. Part of UT Gravity Series.
Ron Lindley, 801-375-3231, go-ride.com
Aug 10: Leadville Trail 100
Leadville, CO. 50-mile out-and-back in high altitude (9000’+) mountains and valleys of Leadville.
Highest point at 12,600’. Mostly double track dirt
roads with steep climbs and tough descents. Last 7
miles to turnaround is uphill. 12-hour limit. Lottery
reg and qualifier races get you in. Josh Colley,
Lifetime - Leadville Race Series, 719-219-9357,
leadvilleraceseries.com
Aug 10–11: Trestle Gravity Series #3
Winter Park, CO. See race series for details.
Winter Park Competition Center, 970-726-1590,
epicsingletrack.com
Aug 10: Watermelon Beat Down NMES #5
Cedar Crest, NM. New event. 45-50 miles.
Limit 74 people. Unsupported. See race series
for details. Rich Capner, NM Endurance Series,
nmes.wordpress.com
Aug 10: Winter Park Epic Singletrack
Series #5 - Rendezvous
Winter Park, CO. See race series for details. Winter Park Resort, 970-726-1590, epicsingletrack.com
Aug 11–16: Breck Epic
Breckenridge, CO. Rugged backcountry experience. 6 stages, cloverleaf style, start/finish in
town. 240km of high-alpine riding split between
30-35 miles and 4-8 hours per day at altitudes
over 10,000’. New and more singletrack. Solo,
teams, singlespeed. 3-day option of 140 miles.
Enduro 75 miles. Mike McCormack,
970-485-5847, breckepic.com
Aug 17: Mt Ogden 100
Snowbasin, UT. 3 race divisions: 25K, 50k and
100k. Held on the trails of Snowbasin Resort.
Steve Andrus, Snowbasin Resort, 801-620-1014,
mtogden100k.com
Aug 17: Nederland HalfAss
Nederland, CO. Unsupported event limited to
74. Nederland to Raymond and back. 75 miles
with about 13km of climbing on rough singletrack.
40% dirt road, 50% singletrack, some pavement.
Start 6am at Happy Trails. Chuck Ray, Colorado
Endurance Series, coloradoes.wordpress.com
Aug 17: Springs Mountain Bike
Marathon
Colorado Springs, CO. Tim Scott, Palmer HS Cycling Team, 719-651-6037, [email protected]
Aug 17: Steamboat Stinger
Steamboat Springs, CO. 50-mile epic with a touch
of western flair. 90% singletrack. Starts at Howelson Hill Ski Area going twice around 25-mile
loop. Multiple categories. Sunday marathon or
half marathon, do both for King Sting or Queen
Bee titles. 866-464-6639, honeystinger.com
Aug 17: Templeton Cash XCM
Colorado Springs, CO. Pro UET final. Tim Scott,
24hoursofcos.com
Aug 24–25: 24 Hours in the Sage
Gunnison, CO. Hartman Rocks. 12-hour also
available. Solo, duo, singlespeed, teams of 4.
Home of the 24-Hour Solo Townie Bike World
Championship. Also 24 minutes in the Sage
kids race. Benefits Rocky Mountain MS Center.
Limit 300 riders. Dave Taylor, 970-641-1358,
24hoursinthesage.com
Aug 24: Winter Park Epic Singletrack
Series #6 - King of the Rockies
Winter Park, CO. The race that started it all.
Distance 25.8 miles, start elevation 8756’, highest
elevation 9945’. Total climbing 4011’. Starts
outside Fraser and finishes at base of Winter
Park Resort. Longest race of the series. Check-in
8am, race 10am. See race series for details.
Kristi Huber, Winter Park Resort, 970-726-1590,
epicsingletrack.com
Aug 30–Sep 1: Wydaho Rendezvous
MTB Festival
Alta, WY. At Grand Targhee Resort WY and Teton
Valley ID. Super D (4300’ descent from chairlift),
downhill, hill climb and XC trail races. For fun
Strava events with prizes. Fat bike race, including
“high mark.” All races included with registration.
Tim Adams, tetonbikefest.org
Aug 31: 8 Hours of Labor
Butte, MT. Homestake Lodge. Rebecca Mamrol,
TripleRing Productions, tripleringprod.com
Aug 31–Sep 1: Big Mountain Enduro #4
Durango, CO. Big descents and high alpine.
Kennebec Pass and other infamous trails. See
race series for details. Big Mountain Enduro, LLC.,
bigmountainenduro.com
Aug 31–Sep 2: Keystone Downhill Jam
Keystone, CO. warriorscycling.com
Aug 31: Pain in the Aspen
Aspen, CO. Singletrack, high elevation, backcountry, self supported endurance event. 75-78
miles. Thomas Ray, Colorado Endurance Series,
coloradoes.wordpress.com
Aug 31: Park City Point 2 Point
Park City, UT. A true point 2 point race. Thanks
to the plethora of trails in this area, the race
will never be on the same trail twice. Over 90%
singletrack. 78 miles and 14,000’ of climbing.
Jay Burke, 801-330-3214, thepcpp.com
Aug 31: Top of the World MTB Race NMORS #9
Red River, NM. Takes place in the Enchanted
Forest XC and Snowshoe Area. Part of New
Mexico Off-Road Series - NMORS. Geoff Goins,
Enchanted Forest Cross Country Ski Area,
575-754-6112, efxc.com
September
Sep 1: Grand Targhee Enduro & Super D
Alta, WY. Start at just under 10,000’ and travel
over 4700’ vertical and 12 miles down to finish
in Teton Canyon. DH runs on 1.75-mile-long
singletrack. Also chainless DH. Andy Williams,
Grand Targhee Resort, 307-353-2300 x 1309,
grandtarghee.com
Sep 1–2: Trestle Gravity Series #3
Winter Park, CO. See race series for details.
Winter Park Competition Center, 970-726-1590,
epicsingletrack.com
Sep 4: Rico 100
Rico, CO. High elevation backcountry on San
Juan’s finest singletrack. Start 6:30am at Rico Firehouse, ends at The Enterprise Bar & Grill. 95 miles
with 15km of climbing. Support vehicle for resupply at Bear Creek TH. Self-supported endurance
race limited to 74. Jeffrey Hemperley, Colorado
Endurance Series, coloradoes.wordpress.com
Sep 7: Back to School Special NMORS #10
Angel Fire, NM. New course. Collegiate and
regular USAC categories. Distances 10-30 miles
depending on class. DH race to be confirmed.
Part of New Mexico Off-Road Series - NMORS.
Nick Heine, University of NM Cycling Team,
nmcycling.org
Sep 7: Fall Classic
Breckenridge, CO. Expert, singlespeed open
and elite race. 29 miles with 4700’ of climbing on
big course, all others the 16-mile, 2700’ course.
U13 start at Sallie Barber winter trailhead, all
others at the Wellington neighborhood on French
Gulch Rd. U10 race multiple laps at Carter Park.
Jeff Westcott, Maverick Sports Promotions,
970-390-4760, mavsports.com
Sep 7: Ring the Peak 100
Colorado Springs, CO. Self-supported singletrack,
dirt roads, backcountry, high altitude epic ride
around Pikes Peak. 100’ish miles. Ryan Kohler,
Colorado Endurance Series, ringthepeak.com
Sep 7–8: Vapor Trail 125
Salida, CO. High altitude ultra marathon MTB
enduro. 125 miles, 20,000’ of climbing on some
of the best singletrack in Colorado. Start 10pm.
Aid station. Earl and Tom, Absolute Bikes,
888-539-9295, vaportrail125.com
Sep 8: Colorado HS MTB League #1
Granby, CO. Snow Mountain Ranch Stampede.
See race series for details. Colorado HS League,
coloradomtb.org
Sep 8: Utah High School League #1
Park City, UT. For 9th through 12th grades only.
Categories for individual scoring are Freshman,
Sophomore, JV, and Varsity for boys and girls
separately. Team scoring for division I and II
teams. Starts Saturday at 10am. Bring your family
and cowbells for a great day of fun cheering
your local high school team at spectator-friendly,
4-6 mile lap courses. See race series for details.
Lori Harward, Utah High School League,
801-502-8516, utahmtb.org
Mtb Touring
July
Jul 6: Fire Road Cycling - Dirt Fondo
Cedar City, UT. 25, 60, 100km distances, starts
at Main Street Park, 8am, 7000’ total elevation
gained for 100km; 4000’ total for 60km. 25
qualifying slots for the Leadville 100 up for grabs
for 100km event. Paul Huddle, 858-518-0042,
fireroadcycling.com
August
Aug 3: West Magnolia Trails MTB Ride
Boulder, CO. Fun backcountry style15 miles
requires moderate abilities. The trails are tight,
fast and fun. Start 9:30am at Nederland.
Heidi Dohrman, Team Evergreen Bicycle Club,
720-470-0445, teamevergreen.org
Aug 3–10: Yellowstone CycleFest
West Yellowstone, MT. Pedal on the Rendezvous
Ski Trail system with over 30km of trails. Road options available. Other biking opportunities, including singletrack, abound in the Gallatin National
Forest. Steve Loop, BioAdventures, 612-384-6772,
yellowstonecyclefest.com
Aug 30–Sep 1: Wydaho Rendezvous
MTB Festival
Alta, WY. 3 days of group rides, demos,
skill parks and racing activities. Tim Adams,
208-201-1622, tetonmountainbikefest.tvtap.org
September
Sep 7–8: Pearl Pass Tour
Crested Butte, CO. The oldest mountain bike event
in the world celebrates Mountain Biking Hall of
Fame inductees. Pearl Pass Tour to Aspen. 38-mile
ride starts at 9am. Free entry. Gear shuttle $10.
Mountain Bike Hall of Fame, 970-349-6817,
mtnbikehalloffame.com
Road Racing
series
New Mexico Road Series - NMRS
Aug 4, 18
Various, NM. A series of 8 races, possibly 9
(TBC). Overall calculated on points, must do a
minimum of 3 to qualify. Out of district riders eligible for series prizes. All races scored separately,
not on omnium. Final race counts for double
points. Men and women Cat 1/2/3, both Cat 4,
men Cat 5, Masters 50+ men and Juniors. Points
awarded based on number of participants. Event
identify at NMRS. Jennifer Buntz, nmcycling.org
Rocky Mountain Road Cup (RMRC)
Jul 6, 7, 14, 20, 21, 26–28; Aug 3, 4, 10, 11,
17, 18, 31–Sep 2
Various, CO. Season long points competition for
individual and club members. Gold level events
awards points to the top 30, silver events top 20
and bronze top 15. Overall calculated on top
16 results for individual, top 20 for team. BRAC,
coloradocycling.org
UCA Premier Points Series
Jul 6, 27; Aug 3, 17–18, 24
Various, UT. Season-long points series administered by the Utah Cycling Association. Consists of
weekend races. Points calculated for all licensed
category riders and abilities. Mike Hansen,
utahcycling.com
Volcan TT Series
Jul 21; Aug 4, 11
Albuquerque, NM. 20km rolling out and back
with moderate descent and climb out to the Rio
Puerco Valley. Random start every 30 seconds.
Categories for 10+. Jeff Huser, 505-228-9150,
nmcycling.org
weekly
Tuesday
CSP Table Mountain Race Series
June 4–August 27
Golden, CO. Criterium held at CSP training facility on South Table Mtn. 6pm start for Senior men
and women. Medals for best overall sprinter and
finisher based on points. First series runs May to
end of June, second series July to end of August.
Jonathan Heidemann, 303-798-5925,
peaktopeaktraining.com
Lander CC Tuesday Night TT
April 2–September 24
Lander, WY. Starts at City Park and goes to
Sawmill parking area in Sinks Canyon. All bikes/
riders welcome. Start 5:45pm at 1-min intervals.
Order determined by previous times. Most selftimed/honor system. Canceled if less than 50F.
landercycling.org
RMR Criterium Series
April 2–September 24
West Valley City, UT. Tuesdays from April to September at the Rocky Mountain Raceway (6555 W.
2100 S). Start 6pm for A/B flite, 6:55pm for C/D.
1.3-mile loop with sweeping turns, tight chicanes
and straight, wide finish. Overall points based on
any top 10 finish. USAC license required. Marek
Shon, 801-209-2479, utahbikeracing.com
Top of Utah Criterium Series —
Tuesday
June 25–July 30
Ogden, UT. Tuesdays - New course around South
Ogden Junior High. Perfect venue for pre-race
fitness or introduction to racing in the C Flight.
Women’s Flight: 5:15pm (25min). C Flight:
5:50pm (30min). Kids Crit: 6:20pm (10min). B
Flight: 6:30pm (40min). A Flight: 7:20pm (50min).
Joel Rackham, 801-721-6952, thresholdevents.org
Wednesday
DLD (DMV) Criterium p/b Ski Utah
April 10–September 4
West Valley City, UT. Start 6:10pm for A flight,
7pm for others. Tight technical turns, high speed
descent, and “The Wall.” One of the most difficult
courses in UT. Location: Driver’s Training Center
at 4700S 2780 W. Overall calculated on points.
The top 10 in each race gets points. Marek Shon,
801-209-2479, utahbikeracing.com
SBR Time Trial Series
May 1–September 4
Orem, UT. Starts at 7pm. Flat 6-mile out and
back. Free to participate. Presented at 321 South
Vineyard Road. Joe Johnson, 801-225-0076,
sbrutah.com
Top of Utah Criterium Series —
Wednesday
June 26–July 24
Logan, UT. Course has four corners and is relatively flat. Start is at 3065 N. 200 W in Logan.
Perfect venue for pre-race fitness or introduction
to racing in the C-Flight. Women’s Flight: 5:15pm
(25min). C Flight: 5:50pm (30min). Kids Crit:
6:20pm (10min). B Flight: 6:30pm (40min). A
Flight: 7:20pm (50min). Joel Rackham,
801-721-6952, thresholdevents.org
Thursday
Bear Creek Lake Park TT
September 5–26
Lakewood, CO. 4-race series. 6.8-mile course
at Bear Creek Lake Park with fast turns, rolling
terrain and a 120-degree turn. All categories
Junior 10+, handcycles and retro. First rider off
at 4:30pm, 30” intervals. Overall calculated on
best 3 results. Fundraiser for ACA. Alan Boisvert,
720-536-5934, limabeanscycling.com
DNA Hill Climb Series
April 18–August 22
Salt Lake City, UT. Starts just east of the Hoggle
Zoo parking lot. 7.4 miles to top of Emigration
Canyon. First rider off at 6:30pm. Runs every
other Thursday. Marek Shon, 801-209-2479,
utahbikeracing.com
Nationwide Whole Foods NewMark
Merrill Crit Series
April 18–July 25
Longmont, CO. Criterium series. Barry Lee, Sanitas Sports, 720-244-8228, coloradocycling.org
SaltAire Time Trial
April 4–September 5
Salt Lake City, UT. Race every other Thursday.
10km flat TT, out-and-back. Starts every 30
seconds. First rider at 6pm. Start off I-80 Frontage
Road, west of the International Center.
Marek Shon, 801-209-2479, utahbikeracing.com
Racing
July
Jul 3: Wonder Woman Hill Climb
Highland, UT. Meet at Ridgeline Elementary.
Start 6:30pm. Ascend the 1125’ up Traverse
Mountain from the Lehi side. Mahogani Thurston,
801-318-1420, wonderwomanride.com
Jul 5–7: Single Track Bike Shop Omnium
Flagstaff, AZ. Omnium format, must complete all
3 stages. Friday 20km TT, Saturday: Snowbowl
hill climb, Sunday Williams/Perkinsville RR. Juniors
to Masters 60+. Joe Shannon, Flagstaff Cycling,
928-523-1740, Flagstaffcycling.Squarespace.com
Jul 6: Gran Fondo de Taos
Taos, NM. New course. 105 or 84 miles. Longer
routes follow beautiful rural terrain of the Taos,
Mora, Angel Fire, Taos loop. Start/Finish at
Taos Youth and Family center. Rest stops, timed.
Benefits the Taos Sports Alliance. Jennifer Buntz,
Duke City Wheelmen Foundation, 505-306-1443,
taossports.com
Jul 6: Porcupine Hill Climb
Salt Lake City, UT. 12th Annual. Start: Porcupine
Pub & Grille, finishing at Brighton Ski Resort, Big
Cottonwood Canyon. Part of UCA Premier Points
Series. Mike Meldrum, Porcupine Cycling Club,
801-424-9216, porcupinehillclimb.com
Jul 6: Rock the River RR
Glenwood Springs, CO. Part of Rocky Mountain
Road Cup (RMRC). Mitchell Hyra, Dotsero,
970-688-0102, coloradocycling.org
Jul 7: Nationwide Niwot Downtown
Criterium
Niwot, CO. Fast, fun, exciting and technical
downtown criterium in historical Niwot (2nd Ave).
1-mile course. 7 corners, 2 sharper than 90 degrees. Open to all categories. BAR yellow group
only. Part of Rocky Mountain Road Cup (RMRC).
Sanitas Sports, coloradocycling.org
Jul 13: Firestone 88 Criterium Classic
Firestone, CO. Brand new to the Colorado cycling
scene. Get ready for .88 miles of wide-open and
July / August 2013
Calendar
freshly paved roads! Course offers fun corners
that can be taken at full speed and wide-open
fresh paved roads. Tony Panigutti, Without Limits
Productions, 303-882-8304, withoutlimits.com
Jul 14: Longmont Criterium Classic
Longmont, CO. Senior criterium championships
plus select categories. Longest running race in
the state. 0.7-mile mostly flat L-shaped course
winds through historic neighborhoods. Wide
smooth streets. Part of Rocky Mountain Road Cup
(RMRC). Nadine Pyter, Twin Peak Cycling,
303-233-7125, coloradocycling.org
Jul 16–21: Cascade Cycling Classic
Bend, OR. 34th annual. 5-day stage race for
Pro USAC races, and 3 days for the Cat 2, 3,
4, and Masters. NRC event M/W. Chad Sperry,
Breakaway Promotions, 541-388-0002,
cascade-classic.org
Jul 17–21: Cache County Stage Race
Cache Valley, UT. Tentative date. S/F on Holladay
Blvd. Course incorporates a hill climb on 4500
South, a descent down 2300 East and a wicked
turn on to Laney Ave back onto Holladay Blvd.
Something for every racer. Dirk Cowly,
801-699-5126, racedayeventmanagement.com
Jul 19–21: Marymoor Gran Prix Junior Crit
Redmond, WA. Criterium. Part of Seattle Road
Development Series. David Mann, 206-621-8868,
velodrome.org
Jul 20: Bob Cook Memorial Mt. Evans Hill Climb
Idaho Springs, CO. 28-mile race starts at 7540’
in front of Clear Creek Middle School. Proceeds
to Echo Lake, climbs to summit of Mt. Evans
(14,264’). Course record is 1:41:20. Part of
Rocky Mountain Road Cup (RMRC). Kim Nordquist, Team Evergreen Racing, 303-249-6168,
bicyclerace.com
Jul 20: Ladies Pamperfest Challenge
Snowbasin, UT. Teams can be 2 or 4 ladies,
traveling a total of 161 miles to Provo. 4-cyclist
teams: each rider will complete 2 legs. 2-cyclist
teams: each do 4 legs. Average per leg: 20 miles.
Rockwell Relay, 801-809-0086, rockwellrelay.com
Jul 21: Durango Century - D100
Durango, CO. Not an official race, but timing
provided. 100 miles, 4091’ of elevation gain
from Durango to Farmington and back. Start at
Santa Rita Park. Keith Ashmore, 505-258-0592,
durango100.com
Jul 21: Montana State Criterium
Helena, MT. Mark Brooke, montanacycling.net
Jul 21–Aug 5: National Senior Games
Cleveland, OH. National Senior Games Assoc.,
nsga.com
Jul 21: Pikes Peak Cycling Hillclimb
Manitou Springs, CO. Negotiate 154 turns up
20km climb to the top. 4720’ elevation on trafficfree road. Average grade 7%. Ride down or take
shuttle. All categories. Start between 6:30 and
7am. Part of Rocky Mountain Road Cup (RMRC).
Pat McDonough, Summit Cycling Production,
719-466-9106, ridepikespeak.com
Jul 21: Volcan TT #1
Moriarty, NM. See race series for details.
Jeff Huser, 505-228-9150, nmcycling.org
Jul 26–27: Saints to Sinners Bike Relay
Salt Lake City, UT. Relay from SLC to Vegas. Over
500 miles with elevations from 1500 to 10,500’.
Ride around the clock. Fundraiser for ALS/Lou Gehrig’s Disease. 801-822-4870, SaintstoSinners.com
Jul 26–28: Salida Classic
Salida, CO. Friday (bronze): TT on 6.8 miles of
county roads. Saturday (silver): Crit on 1-mile
figure-8 course. Sunday (gold): Grueling RR
on 5.7-mile technical and hilly loop. Colorado
Master RR Championships. Cash prizes. Part of
Rocky Mountain Road Cup (RMRC). South Central
Racing, southcentralracing.com
Jul 27: Chalk Creek RR
Coalville, UT. Juniors and Masters Utah State
Championship. Part of UCA Premier Points Series.
Mike Meldrum, Porcupine Cycling Cub,
801-424-9216, porcupinecycling.com
August
Aug 3: Lookout Mtn Hill Climb
Golden, CO. Climb one of Denver’s best known
hills on a point-to-point challenging course. Part
of Rocky Mountain Road Cup (RMRC). Phil
Harbison, Colobikelaw.com, 303-994-5207,
searcycling.org
Aug 3: Mammoth Creek Race
Cedar City, UT. 100-mile race. Registration
is $60 through usacycling.org. Brian Jeppson,
435-586-5210, colorcountrycyclingclub.org
Aug 3: Snowbird Hill Climb
Snowbird, UT. 34th annual, 8am start on
9400 S. near 20th East, climb to Snowbird’s
entry II. Misty Clark, 801-933-2115,
snowbird.com/events/summer/hillclimb.html
Aug 3: Tour de Park City
Park City, UT. Classic road race starting and
finishing in Park City. 170-, 100-, 50- and 15-mile
timed courses through northern Utah’s beautiful
mountain valleys. Food, prizes and more. Part of
UCA Premier Points Series. Ben Towery,
801-389-7247, tourdeparkcity.com
July / August 2013 Aug 4: Mike Nields Memorial Bannock
St. Criterium
Denver, CO. Junior Criterium Championships.
1-mile figure-8 course located in heart of historic
Golden Triangle neighborhood. All categories and
many youth-oriented events. $10,000 cash prize.
BAR blue group only. Part of Rocky Mountain Road
Cup (RMRC). Jim Levy, Front Rangers Cycling Club,
303-220-7675, frontrangersdenver.org
Aug 4: Santa Fe Hill Climb - NMRS
Santa Fe, NM. 14.7 miles with 3300’ of climbing.
All categories. Part of New Mexico Road Series NMRS. nmcycling.org
Aug 4: Volcan TT #2
time. Held under stage race rules, must enter/
finish all events. Part of Rocky Mountain Road
Cup (RMRC). Corey Piscopo, Steamboat Velo,
970-846-6413, bikesteamboat.com
September
Sep 1–2: Paula Higgins Record
Challenge TT
Moriarty, NM. Regional TT Championships. Break
a national record or your personal best. 40km
course, flat, one turn, calm winds. Juniors must
use restricted gears. Sunday: 10, 20 and 40km
seeded by age group. Next day’s start based on
finish time. nmcycling.org
Moriarty, NM. See race series for details.
Jeff Huser, 505-228-9150, nmcycling.org
Sep 4–8: USAC Masters Road
Nationals
Various, UT. America’s toughest stage race, UCI
2.1. 6 stages, 500 miles, Pro/1 men only. Stages
run through Brian Head, Cedar City, Panguitch,
Torrey, Richfield, Payson, Salt Lake City, Snowbasin Resort, Snowbird Ski and Summer Resort and
Park City. 801-325-2500, tourofutah.com
Sep 7: LOTOJA Classic
Aug 6–11: Larry H. Miller Tour of Utah
Aug 10: Lamoille Canyon Hill Climb
Lamoille, NV. 12-mile 2900’ HC up beautiful
Lamoille Canyon Rd in Nevada’s Ruby Mountains.
Post-event picnic. Jeff White, Elko Velo Cycling
Club, 775-842-9125, elkovelo.com
Aug 10: Racing for Hope Cycling
Classic
Golden, CO. 1.7-mile CSP self-contained
paved semi-oval course. Includes Pro 1/2, 3
and 4 women/men. Handcycling, Juniors and kids
(U7) races. Benefits Craig Hospital, the nation’s
premier spinal cord/brain injury rehab hospital.
Part of Rocky Mountain Road Cup (RMRC).
Alice Brown, P2P / Mile High Cycling Society,
303-956-6527, racingforhopeco.org
Aug 10: The Death Match RR
Salt Lake City, UT. Marek Shon, 801-209-2479,
utahcritseries.com
Aug 11: Littleton Criterium p/b Pedal
Littleton, CO. Part of Rocky Mountain Road
Cup (RMRC). Michael Catterall, 720-839-8374,
coloradocycling.org
Aug 11: Volcan TT #3
Moriarty, NM. See race series for details.
Jeff Huser, 505-228-9150, nmcycling.org
Aug 17: Louviers Grand Prix Junior State RR
Louviers, CO. Colorado Junior RR Championships.
Gold Juniors only. Part of Rocky Mountain Road
Cup (RMRC). Brian Hart, Team Rocky Mountain
Health Plan, 303-904-0092, coloradocycling.org
Aug 17: Prestige Imports
Vuelta a Salida
Salida, CO. Fondo-style 20, 60 and 100 miles
and fast, fun, free ride for kids. Start at Riverside
Park. Route features scenic views of upper Arkansas Valley with a revamped 100-mile course that
includes Cottonwood Pass. Limit 1000. Rob Quinn,
Spectrum Marketing, vueltaasalida.com
Aug 18: Colorado Classic Road Race
Front Range, CO. A midsummer’s road race.
Part of Rocky Mountain Road Cup (RMRC).
Stephen Haydel, Swift Cycling, 303-868-4236,
cyclingevents.com
Aug 18: Las Vueltas de Mountainair NMRS
Mountainair, NM. Short loop: 36.7 miles for Cat
5 men, Cat 4 women and Juniors. Others race
long loop of 57.5 miles with 1600’ elevation
gain. Cat 1/2/3, men race both. Prizes to top 5.
Double points for the series. Part of New Mexico
Road Series - NMRS. Kari Wilner, New Mexico
Spokette Racing Team, nmcycling.org
Aug 19–25: USA Pro Cycling Challenge
Bend, OR. All age groups and tandems with
combined age of 70+. Road race, criterium and
TT. Chad Sperry, Breakaway Promotions,
719-434-4200, usacycling.org
Logan, UT. European-style classic. 206 miles,
up and down 3 mountain passes in first 110 miles.
Logan to Jackson Hole, WY. Must finish before
dark. Pre-reg only. 27 categories including
relay team. Brent Chambers, Epic Events,
801-546-0090, lotojaclassic.com
Sep 7: Race to the Angel
Wells, NV. 12-mile, 2784’ hill climb up beautiful Lamoille Canyon Road in Nevada’s Ruby
Mountains. Post event picnic, awards. Road and
MTB allowed. Matt Holford, Auburn Chamber of
Commerce, 775-752-3540, racetotheangel.org
Sep 8: Ride for the Red
TBD,ID. Tentative. Mike Cooley, 208-343-3782,
georgescycles.com
Touring series
Challenge Series Short Course
Sep 7
Various, CO. 3-event series. 80-100 miles with
challenging climbs. Overall season standing
calculated on time. rmccrides.com
Triple Crown Series
Jul 27; Aug 10
Various, CO. 4-event series featuring the toughest
of the RMCC Challenge Series. Timed one-day
double centuries designed to push cyclists to the
limit of endurance. Complete Joe, Death Ride and
Grand Loop in a single calendar year and get the
coveted Colorado Triple Crown finisher title. Overall season standing calculated on time. Events also
part of Ultracycling Cup. rmccrides.com
Road Touring
July
Jul 4: Tour de Riverton
Riverton, UT. Part of Riverton Town Days events.
Start 7am at Riverton City Park. Fun ride and
25-mile loop through Riverton and Herriman. Brad
Rowberry, 801-523-8268, tourderiverton.com
Jul 6: Bryce Canyon 102 Populaire
Panguitch, UT. Open to all. 102km ride starts at
the Red Canyon Visitor Center. Lonnie Wolff,
435-559-0895, subrevet.org
Jul 6: Gran Fondo de Taos
Taos, NM. New course. 105 or 84 miles. Longer
routes follows beautiful rural terrain of the Taos,
Mora, Angel Fire, Taos loop. S/F at Taos Youth
and Family center. Rest stops, timed. Benefits Taos
Sports Alliance. Jennifer Buntz, Duke City Wheelmen Foundation, 505-306-1443, taossports.com
Jul 6: Honor Ride - Denver
Aurora, CO. Start at Bicycle Village. Register as
solo or team. Fundraising event to help improve
the health and wellness of healing heroes. 15,
27, 61 miles. Christopher Swan, Fitness Challenge
Foundation, 818-888-7091, ride2recovery.com
Various, CO. UCI race. 600 miles in 7 days for
128 of the world’s best Pro Tour riders. Covers
some of the toughest terrain in the region.
Starts in Aspen, travels through Breckenridge,
Steamboat Springs, Beaver Creek, Vail, Loveland,
Fort Collins and finishes in Denver. US Pro Cycling
Challenge, usaprocyclingchallenge.com
Jul 6: Jim Bridger Century and Metric
- BCC SS
Heber, UT. Scenic but challenging 8-mile circuits
in Heber Valley. $1500 prize purse, equal payout
for men’s 1-2 and women’s 1-2-3 fields. Part of
UCA Premier Points Series. Jared Ebom, Bike 2
Bike, 801-599-9268, extramileracing.com
Jul 7–13: Climb Time - Elevation Gain
Aug 24: Heber Valley Circuit Race
Aug 24: Jackson Hole Gran Fondo
Teton Village, WY. 117 miles. Scott Horn,
307-739-2676, teamjacksonhole.com
Aug 24: Powder Mountain HC
Eden, UT. Utah State Hill Climb Championships. 6
miles and 3000’ up Powder Mountain Road. Start
at Wolf Creek Balloon Festival Park, finish in Timberline parking lot. Ben Towery, 801-389-7247,
teamexcelerator.com
Aug 25: Mormon Lake Road Race
Flagstaff, AZ. Circuit race on 16-mile course
with rolling loops and 361’ climbing/lap. Start at
rodeo grounds. Distance between 21 (U18) to 85
miles for Pro men. Part of Women’s Cycling Assoc.
of AZ Series. Joe Shannon, Flagstaff Cycling,
928-523-1740, Flagstaffcycling.Squarespace.com
Aug 31–Sep 2: Steamboat Springs
Stage Race
Steamboat Springs, CO. Four days of racing.
ITT prologue, circuit race, road race and downtown criterium. 8 categories. GC calculated on
Draper, UT. Ogden area. Start at Box Elder HS
in Brigham City and ride historic Jim Bridger route
through Corrine and Bear River City. Mostly flat
terrain. Tom Coffey, Bonneville Cycling Club,
801-737-3241, bccutah.org
Salida, CO. Many rides will start above 6000’
and climb up to 12,000’. Climb mountain passes,
descend long, curvy routes while experiencing
spectacular views of the Continental Divide and
Rocky Mountains. Finish Line Cycling,
720-295-0758, finishlinecycling.com
Jul 12–13: Raspberry Ramble Series
- SLR
Logan, UT. 300, 400, 600km brevets (125 to 375
miles). Never-before ridden routes. Start together
via the LoToJa route, traveling up and over Strawberry summit. 400, 600 go around Bear Lake.
600 stops back in Logan and makes 200km loop
out to Golden Spike Historic National Monument
before returning home. 300 is RUSA-approved,
others RUSA & ACP-certified. Richard Stum, Salt
Lake Randonneurs, SaltLakeRandos.org
Jul 13: Cache Gran Fondo
Logan, UT. 2nd annual. Century and 50-mile rides
through Cache Valley and southern Idaho. 4 mild
hills. Scenic views, great food and music. Limit
500. Raises money for breast cancer screenings
for local women. Troy Oldham, 435-716-5378,
cachegranfondo.com
Jul 13: Golden Gate Gadabout
Louisville, CO. 200km, start 7am from RTD Parkand-Ride lot NW of US-36 and McCaslin. Lots
of great climbing up Golden Gate Canyon and
on Peak to Peak Highway. John Lee Ellis, Rocky
Mountain CC, 303-604-1163, rmccrides.com
Jul 13: Royal Athletic Century Epic
Ride (RACER)
Roy, UT. 34, 50, 75, 102 miles through Weber
and Davis County in the prime of Utah’s diverse
summer weather. Exciting mixture of plains and
hills throughout northern Utah. S/F at Roy High
School. Supports Huntsman Cancer Institute and
Roy HS Athletics. Tim Bell, Royal Riders CC,
801-476-3631, theracer.org
Jul 13: Swiss Miss
Heber, UT. Women’s only ride. Duff Johnson,
Slim & Knobby’s Bike Shop, 435-654-2282,
gohebervalley.com
Jul 13: Tour de Ladies
Parker, CO. Women’s only ride, fully supported
event through the rolling hills of Douglas County.
30 and 62 miles. No trailer or tagalong allowed.
Swag and finish line post-ride Lunch and Lounge.
Supports Douglas County Women’s Crisis &
Family Outreach Center. Pre-reg only. Kathie
Shandro, Colorado Riders Club, 303-850-1812,
tourdeladies.com
Jul 13–14: Triple Bypass
Evergreen, CO. Day 1 - East: Evergreen to Avon.
120 miles and more than 10,000’ elevation gain
over 3 mountain passes (Jupiter, Loveland, Vail).
Limit 3500. Day 2 - West: Avon to Evergreen
inaugural ride. Limit 2500. Double Triple Bypass:
Ride both days. Team Evergreen Bicycle Club,
303-800-7613, teamevergreen.org/triple
Jul 13: Utah Tour de Donut
American Fork, UT. 6th annual. Family-friendly
circuit race with three laps. Between laps racers
may eat donuts and take minutes off their time.
Proceeds benefit local and international projects
of Rotary Club of American Fork. 801-427-6400,
utahtourdedonut.org
Jul 20: Eriksen Tour de Steamboat
Steamboat, CO. 3-route options: 26, 40 and 110
miles through some of northwest Colorado’s most
spectacular terrain. Controlled mass start 7am.
Also family friendly distance on the Yampa Valley
Core Trail. Ride benefits 4 local charities. Benefit
dinner 7/19. Rocky Peak Productions,
970-879-8484, tourdesteamboat.com
Jul 20: Pedal Away Parkinson’s
Kaysville, UT. 8th annual. 10-mile family fun ride
starts at 8am at Gailey Park. Auction, games, live
music. All riders entered in prize drawing. Benefits
Utah Chapter of the American Parkinson Disease
Assoc. Meredith Healey-Smith, 801-451-6566,
pedalawayparkinsons.com
Jul 20: Taylor House Benefit Ride
Flagstaff, AZ. Benefit ride in high-altitude cool
pines and red rock desert of northern Arizona,
offering 30-, 45-, 65-, and 95-mile route options.
Anthony Quintile, Absolute Bikes, 928-779-5969,
absolutebikes.net/taylor
Jul 20–Aug 10: Volcanoes of
Washington Challenge
Seattle, WA. 2 wheels, 4 mountains, 8 days and
a million memories. Washington’s Mt. Rainier,
Mt. Adams, Mt. St. Helens and Oregon’s Mt.
Hood. Intermediate to advanced. Average 55
miles per day. Bicycle Adventures, 800-443-6060,
bicycleadventures.com
Jul 21–28: Bike Glacier, Banff & Jasper
Nat’l Parks
Billings, MT. 8 days, 541 miles, 26,500’ elevation gain. Bike in 2 countries, 4 National Parks.
Richard Merrick, Cycling Escapes, 714-267-4591,
CyclingEscapes.com
Jul 21: Durango Century - D100
Durango, CO. 100 miles, 4091’ of elevation gain
from Durango to Farmington and back. Also
84 and 50 miles. Start at Santa Rita Park. Loop
route descends from the San Juan Mountains of
Durango to the mesas of Farmington, returning
near La Plata Mountains. Keith Ashmore,
505-258-0592, durango100.com
Jul 14–21: Fuller Center Bicycle
Adventure - Leg 6
Jul 21: Pikes Peak Cycling Hillclimb
Jul 14: Stage 6 - BBC SS
Jul 21: Upland Roller 100 - BCC SS
Jul 14–19: Tour de Wyoming
Jul 24: Red Rock Ranch Monte Cristo
- BCC SS
Craig, CO. Start with a building day before
riding 35 to 88 miles per day to reach Salt Lake
City, UT. Part of the larger cross-country bike ride.
Can also join in for a day. Allen Slabaugh, Fuller
Center for Housing, 229-924-2900,
fullercenter.org/bikeadventure
Park City, UT. Ride Tour of Utah’s stage 6 route
from 2012 without Wolf Mountain but with all the
other hills: Browns Canyon, Peoa, Oakley, Kamas,
Francis, Heber, Midway, Bald Mountain, and
back. Plan on 5000’+ of vertical gain on this
60-mile route. Don Williams, Bonneville Cycling
Club, 801-641-4020, bccutah.org
Cody, WY. 17th annual Top of the World Tour.
6 days, 330 miles over Beartooth Highway and
Dead Indian Pass. Benefits Cycle Wyoming.
Amber Travky, Cycle Wyoming, 307-742-5840,
CycleWyoming.org
Jul 19: Antelope by Moonlight
Bike Ride
Syracuse, UT. 20th Annual. Open to participants
of all ages, starts at White Rock Bay at 10pm.
The halfway point is the historic Fielding Garr
Ranch where refreshments are served. 24 miles
on asphalt road. Proceeds for visitor oriented
projects on the Island. Neka Roundy, Davis
County Economic Development, 801-451-3286,
DavisCountyUtah.gov
Jul 20–27: 109º West Bicycle Tour
New event. A recreational 460-mile ride through
beautiful southwestern Colorado over 7 days.
Fully supported with aid stations, Colorado State
Patrol, swag. Scott Matthews, 970-626-9913,
109west.com
Jul 20: Bike2Build San Luis Valley Century
Alamosa, CO. 100-mile benefit bike ride that tours
the beautiful San Luis Valley and helps Habitat
for Humanity. Fully supported. $100 fundraising
donation to register. SLV Habitat for Humanity,
719-589-8678, slvhabitat.org
Jul 20: CF Cycle for Life
Morgan, UT. 2nd annual. Some of the most scenic
terrain in northern Utah. Fully-supported 3 routes:
35-mile course perfect for any skill level, metric
century for more of a rolling ride or a century ride
for a more aggressive challenge. Min. fundraising
$150. Benefit Cystic Fibrosis Foundation. Laura
Hadley, Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, 801-5322335, cff.org/Chapters/utah
Jul 20–22: Courage Classic
Leadville, CO. 3-day, 157-mile ride through
Summit County during the height of the Rocky
Mountain’s summertime. Ride over Vail and Fremont Passes with an option to go up Ute Pass on
day 2 (subject to final route released). Individual
and team fundraising benefits Children’s Hospital
Colorado. Children’s Hospital Colorado Foundation, 720-777-7499, couragetours.com
Jul 20: Desperado Dual
Panguitch, UT. Fully supported 50-, 100- or
200-mile, 1-day event. Ride through the heart of
the old West along scenic back roads, passing
Nat’l Parks and historic communities. Ryan Gurr,
SpinGeeks, 435-674-3185, spingeeks.com
Manitou Springs, CO. Formerly called Assault on
the Peak, follows the 154, turns up the 20km climb
to the top. 4720’ elevation on traffic-free road.
Average grade 7%. Tour or USA Cycling Race.
Fully supported. Ride down or take the shuttle.
Start 6am. Pat McDonough, Summit Cycling Production, 719-466-9106, ridepikespeak.com
Salt Lake, UT. Meet at Wanship Trailhead at 9am
and go to Morgan loop (metric) or Green Mtn
(103 miles) and back. 3300’ total elevation gain.
Self-supported, club ride, non-members welcome.
100-mile ride hilly, also 30 and 30 options. Don
Williams, Bonneville Cycling Club, 801-641-4020,
bccutah.org
Huntsville, UT. 100 miles self-supported over Monte Cristo to Randolph and back. Approx 7500’
vertical. Meet at Red Creek Ranch at 9am. James
Halay, Bonneville Cycling Club, bccutah.org
Jul 26–27: Saints to Sinners Bike Relay
Salt Lake City, UT. Ride in relay teams from SLC to
Vegas. Over 500 miles with elevations from 1500
to 10,500’. Ride around the clock. Fundraiser for
ALS/Lou Gehrig’s Disease. Cycling Events, LLC,
801-822-4870, SaintstoSinners.com
Jul 27: COCO Century
Ordway, CO. Century ride on the flat rural roads
of southeast Colorado. cococentury.webs.com
Jul 27: Comcast Colorado
Eagle River Ride
Avon, CO. Century, metric century, 42-mile rides
take cyclists from Beaver Creek to Wolcott and
Dotsero and back along the rural setting of Hwy
131 and the Colorado River. Fully supported,
fundraiser for SOS Outreach. Nicole Fava, SOS
Outreach, 970-926-9292, sosoutreach.org
Jul 27: Cripple Creek Crippler
Littleton, CO. May be Colorado’s most difficult
double century with 18,000’ in 207 miles. Capture spectacular glimpses of Colorado’s famed
Pikes Peak along the way. Get the granny gear
out! Relentless rollers and steep climbs, no flat.
Part of Triple Crown Series. Mark Lowe,
Rocky Mountain CC, rmccrides.com
Jul 27: GLMR Ride for Hope,
Healing and Happiness
Payson, UT. 100, 69, or 43 miles to raise awareness of mental illnesses and the resources available. In memory of Gary Ludlow. Benefits NAMI
Utah and ASFP. Zack Ludlow, 801-808-2569,
theglmr.com
Jul 27–28: Grin & Barrett Black
Canyon Buttkicker Charity Ride
Montrose, CO. Various distances. Black Canyon
Buttkicker: 112 miles. Buttkicker Gran Fondo: 155
miles (8000’ elevation gain). 33-, 50- or 70-mile
charity ride or fun 30-mile recovery ride. Fee
includes T-shirt, rest stops and transportation. San
Juan Health Care Foundation, gbbiketour.com
Family Friendly Ride
Supports Bicycle Colorado
Commercial
Rocky Mountain Road Cup Point Scale
Bronze,
Silver,
Gold
Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper l 13
Calendar
Jul 27: Honor Ride - Park City
Park City, UT. Register as solo or team. Fundraising event to help improve the health and wellness
of healing heroes. Fitness Challenge Foundation,
818-888-7091, ride2recovery.com
Jul 27: Honor Ride - SLC
Salt Lake City, UT. Register as solo or team.
Fundraising event to help improve the health and
wellness of healing heroes. Fitness Challenge
Foundation, 818-888-7091, ride2recovery.com
Jul 27: Kaiser Permanente
Moonlight Classic
Denver, CO. Pedal through the deserted streets of
Denver with the strange light of the moon defining
the course. 10-mile, non-competitive late night
charity bike ride through historic neighborhoods.
Benefits Seniors Inc. Families start 10:30pm,
others 11:30pm. Event Marketing Group LLC,
moonlight-classic.com
Jul 27: Ride Around the Wellsvilles
(RAW)
Logan, UT. Challengingly beautiful ride. 26-,
66- and 99-mile routes climb through Sardine
Canyon, extends into Box Elder county and skirts
the Wellsville Mountains into Cache Valley. Fully
supported. Benefits Rotary projects for clean
water and food. Larry Hogge, Logan Rotary Club,
435-757-0977, rotaryraw.com
Jul 27–Aug 3: Tetons to Yellowstone
Jackson, WY. FULL - waiting list. 6 days of riding,
8-day trip. Total mileage 283. Camping. Layover
day includes guided tour of Yellowstone Nat’l Park.
Travels from Jackson to West Yellowstone (MT),
Ashton (ID), and back via Victor. Adventure Cycling Assoc., 800-755-2453, adventurecycling.org
Jul 28–Aug 2: Glacier National Park
Whitefish, MT. Tour offers exceptional cycling
and best hiking in North America. 150-325 miles.
Lizard Head Cycling Guides, 970-728-5891,
lizardheadcyclingguides.com
August
Aug 3: Colorado Cyclist Copper
Triangle Alpine Classic
Copper Mountain, CO. The “Classic” Copper to
Leadville to Vail, return to Copper. 78 miles, 3
passes - Fremont, Tennessee and Vail - followed by
post-ride refreshments provided by Copper Mountain catering. All registrants receive “Classic”
cycling jersey. Benefits Davis Phinney Foundation.
Event Marketing Group LLC,
coppertriangle.com
Aug 3–4: Double Divide Ride
Helena, MT. Cross the Continental Divide twice!
McDonald Pass on Saturday, return Sunday over
Flesher Pass. 129 miles (75 miles the first day, 54
the next). Fully supported. Meals included. Bob
Worthington, 406-443-6572, helenabicycleclub.org
Aug 3: Mammoth Creek Century
Cedar City, UT. Killer loop of 65 miles in
addition to race. Brian Jeppson, 435-586-5210,
colorcountrycyclingclub.org
Aug 3: Mt Nebo Century
Payson, UT. One of Utah’s most breathtaking
century rides. Go over one of the highest and
most picturesque peaks and enjoy the secret Goshen Canyon. Fully supported. 8am start with 30,
65, and 100 options. Benefits Huntsman Cancer
Institute and Southern Sudan Humanitarian.
Jeff Sherrod, 801-654-2886, reason2ride.org
Aug 3: Peak to Peak
Louisville, CO. 300km brevet. Start 5am at US
36 Louisville-Superior exit. Climbs Coal Creek
Canyon, traverses Peak to Peak Hwy, descends
from Estes Park over Devil’s Gulch thru Glen
Haven. 10,600’ of climbing. Lights required. ACPsanctioned. John Lee Ellis, Rocky Mountain CC,
303-604-1163, rmccrides.com
Aug 3–4: Ride with the Winds Bike Tours
Thermopolis, WY. 50-, 75-mile and century options both days. Rest stops, SAG, mechanical/
medical support, meals, massage, indoor/outdoor
camping options. Under 18 must be accompanied
by adult. Don’t miss the hot springs. Min fundraising $150. Margaret Salisbury, Wyoming Cares,
866-996-6564, wyomingcares.org
Aug 3: Tour de Park City
Park City, UT. Gran fondo style. Fully supported
15, 50, 100 and 170 miles. Timed course through
northern Utah’s beautiful mountain valleys. Food,
prizes and more. Ben Towery, 801-389-7247,
tourdeparkcity.com
Aug 3: ULCER
Lehi, UT. Century ride around Utah Lake, gran
fondo style. 35, 65, 111 miles. Fully supported.
Mild to hilly. Start at Thanksgiving Point. Mary
Margaret Williams, Bonneville Cycling Club,
801-641-4020, bccutah.org
Aug 3–10: Yellowstone Cycle Fest
West Yellowstone, MT. 5 days, 5 rides to explore
Yellowstone area. The most scenic cycling and
fun-filled outdoor adventure-sports vacation in
America. MTB option available. Steve Loop,
BioAdventures, 612-384-6772,
yellowstonecyclefest.com
Aug 4–10: Colorado Rocky Mountain
Bike Tour (CRMBT)
Grand Junction, CO. 7th annual. Fully-supported
through central and northern Rocky Mountains.
Challenging climbs, beautiful scenery and fun
mountain towns. CRMBT is going to less traveled
spots as well as some of the classics with our own
14 l Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper
Triple. Limit 500. Peter Duffy, CRMBT, 720-6412130, crmbt.com
Aug 9–17: Glacier Park
Whitefish, MT. Clockwise loop starting and ending in Whitefish. North to Eureka into Canada
before arriving at Waterton Park. Return to US
over Sun Highway and to Lake McDonald within
Glacier National Park. 383 miles and 22,000’.
Ken Condray, Colorado HeartCycle Association,
425-745-1159, heartcycle.org
Aug 10: Colorado Park 2 Park
Challenge
Denver, CO. From Denver’s City Park ride through
downtown Denver to Golden, passing historic
Coors Brewery, up Lookout Mountain to Boettcher
Mansion, to Buffalo Herd Overlook, down to
Evergreen, to Bergen Park, then up Squaw Pass to
Echo Lake, down to Idaho Springs, to Empire, up
Berthoud Pass and down to Winter Park Resort for
finish. 96 miles, 3 cat 1 climbs, 10,177’ vertical
gain. Benefits Livestrong. David May, SACCCO
Cycling, copark2park.com
Aug 10–16: Colorado Wildflowers
and Rivers
Silverthorne, CO. Enjoy central Colorado, pedaling mostly on paved, car-free pathways with
non-stop views of the spectacular Rockies and
surrounding ski areas such as Breckenridge and
Vail. Fully supported. Adventure Cycling Assoc.,
800-755-2453, adventurecycling.org
Aug 10: Promontory Point 120 BCC SS
Ogden, UT. 100 or 120 miles. Meet at 5 Points
Family Center 8am. Short loop options of Corrine
or Bear River City loops. Self-supported club ride,
non-members welcome. Jen Green, Bonneville
Cycling Club, 435-563-1212, bccutah.org
Aug 10: Red Rocks Century Powered
by Primal
Morrison, CO. Charity event featuring amazing
summits, beautiful rock formations, and challenging elevations. Scenic 62- and 100-mile courses
through and around Front Range landmarks and
mountain towns. Fully supported, includes meals,
T-shirt and swag. Start at Red Rock Elementary
School. Benefits Hope Communities and Colfax
Community Network. Stephen Cantar, 303-9609508, redrockscentury.com
Aug 10: Stonewall Century
La Veta, CO. Scenic ride on Hwy 12 to Segundo
and back. 112 miles, 7500’ elevation gain. Start/
stop in La Veta Town Park. SAG, start 6:308:30am. Spanish Peaks Cycling Club, spcycling.org
Aug 10: Ted McVay Roll for the Cure
Hobbs, NM. Cycling and motorcycle poker run.
25, 50, 100km routes for novices to experienced
cyclists. Benefits American Cancer Society. Lea
Regional, City of Hobbs, 575-492-5232,
rollforthecure.net
Aug 10: The Ultimate Challenge Tour of Utah
Park City, UT. From Park City to Snowbird Mountain Resort, 96 miles with 11,000’+ of vertical gain.
Ride the toughest stage of the nation’s toughest
stage race. Dirk Cowley, Tour of Utah - Ultimate
Challenge, 801-325-2500, tourofutah.com
Aug 10: Tim Kalisch
Memorial Grand Loop
brevet. John Lee Ellis, Rocky Mountain CC,
303-604-1163, rmccrides.com
Aug 17: Circle the Summit
Frisco, CO. 21, 45, 60 and 100 miles. Start at
Frisco Rec Center. All rides circle Lake Dillon on
paved bike paths and roads. Century tops Arapahoe Basin, Ute and Vail Passes. Fully supported,
beautiful scenery, great aid stations and fabulous
lunch and beer garden. Leslie Aaholm, Summit
Biking, Inc., 970-668-3603, circlethesummit.com
Aug 17: Prestige Imports
Vuelta a Salida
Salida, CO. Fondo-style 20, 60 and 100 miles
and fast, fun, free ride for kids. Start at Riverside
Park. Features scenic views of upper Arkansas
Valley with a revamped 100-mile course that includes Cottonwood pass. Limit 1000. Rob Quinn,
Spectrum Marketing, vueltaasalida.com
Aug 17: Riding for a Reason Challenge
Salt Lake City, UT. Salt Lake to Coalville over
Emigration and East Canyon. Out and back,
32, 69 or 102 miles. Climbing from 3740-7230,
depending on distance. Briana Thomas, Alpine
Home Medical Equipment, 801-590-2704,
riding4areason.com
Aug 17: Tour de Cure - Colorado
Garden City, UT. 50-, 100-mile rides, start at
Camp Hunt. Register through Trapper Trails Boy
Scout office. 801-479-5460, trappertrails.org
Aug 17: Aspen Snowmass
Ride for the Cure
Aspen, CO. Wagner Park. Fully supported 30 to
40, 62, or 100 miles to benefit Susan G. Komen
Foundation. Opening ceremony, finish line party
and more. Min fundraising $250. Take part in the
only century ride dedicated exclusively to fighting
breast cancer. Aspen Affiliate of Susan G. Komen
for the Cure, 970-920-0250, komenaspen.org
Aug 17–18: Bike MS - Montana
Billings, MT. Multiple route options. Start
Billings, finish Red Lodge, MT. $250 min
fundraising. Fully supported. 800-344-4867
ext. 2, bikewas.nationalmssociety.org
Aug 17: Black Forest 200km Brevet
Castle Rock, CO. A scenic workout over the
wooded hills out of Castle Rock. Start 8am. ACP
Aug 24–31: Tour of Southern Utah
St George, UT. Ride to Mt. Carmel Junction (via
Zion), Bryce, Escalante, Torrey, Panguitch, Cedar
City and back. 60 to 100 challenging miles per day.
500 miles 30,000’ of climbing. Limit 30. Deb Bowling, Planet Ultra, 818-889-2453, planetultra.com
Aug 25: Tour of the Valley Century
Grand Junction, CO. Ride at your own pace in
beautiful western Colorado. 30-, 50-, 75- and 100mile options. Century thru Colorado Nat’l Monument. Post-ride meal. Movie Saturday night. Benefits
Community Hospital and 3 other organizations.
Pre-reg only. Morgan Taylor, Community Hospital,
800-621-0926, yourcommunityhospital.com
Aug 26: Arches and Canyonlands
National Parks
Aug 17: Wildflower Pedalfest
Mountain Green, UT. Fully-supported, womens
only ride, 20-, 35-, 50- and 75-mile courses
through scenic Morgan Valley. Gift for those who
complete Wildflower Hill Climb. T-shirt, goodie
bag, catered lunch, massage, raffle, live band.
Limit 750. Stacie Palmer, 801-644-9940, wildflowerpedalfest.com
Aug 17–18: Wyoming Bike MS
Sundance, WY. Start at the Crook County
Courthouse. 75 miles each day, Saturday option
for a full century. Rolling plains, mountain climbs,
historic town and scenic views. Fundraising
min $300. Age 12+. Start 7:30am both days.
Kimberly Skidmore, 307-433-9559,
bikemswyoming.org
Aug 18–24: Cycle Greater Yellowstone
West Yellowstone, WY. First fully supported, largescale road tour in the majestic Yellowstone region.
Seven days of breathtaking scenery plus every
amenity, for 1000 riders. Epic-plus. Travel through
Wyoming and Montana. Jim Moore,
On Your Left, LLC, 503-281-1526,
cyclegreateryellowstone.com
Aug 18: SPAN the Rockies
Boulder, CO. Cycling for Healing, Hope and
Opportunity. 3 routes, including the only fully supported double metric century. Scenic 130km and
75km rides also available. Limit 2000. Pledges
not required but appreciated. Benefits Safehouse
Progressive Alliance for Nonviolence. Catherine
Valance, 303-449-8623, safehousealliance.org
Aug 18–25: USA Pro Challenge Tour
Aug 16–17: Bike the Bear Century
Park City, UT. For riders of all ages and abilities.
Fully supported 18, 52, 102 miles in and around
Park City mountain side. Spectacular views.
Start 8:30am. Training rides available. Supports
National Ability Center’s mission. Janai Martinez,
National Ability Center, 435-649-3991 x 633,
summitchallenge100.org
Lehi, UT. 200km unsupported. This brevet (new
route) starts in Lehi and makes a loop around Utah
Lake. Not ACP approved. Richard Stum, Salt Lake
Randonneurs, 435-462-2275, SaltLakeRandos.org
Aug 17: Ultimate ULCER 200
Brevet - SLR
Cheyenne, WY. Tentative date. Tour across the
wide open plains of southeastern Wyoming. Out
and back 10, 20, 31, 50 miles or the full century.
Enjoy rolling hills and colorful vistas. Family
10-mile ride on the greenway of Cheyenne. Start
7am from N. Cheyenne Community Park. Jim
Reynolds, 307-634-9464, rideforsightwy.org
Park City, UT. Back to back century features
mostly scenic terrain. Circle Bear Lake on day 1
ending in Evanston, WY. Climb Mirror Lake Highway and descend to Park City on day 2. Benefits
Shriners Hospitals for Children. Fully supported.
Ride 1 or both days. Limit 50. Gary Hooper,
801-550-0915, bearpachallenge.com
Aug 24: Summit Challenge
Aug 25: Twin Creeks - BCC SS
Aug 18: The Big Ride 150
Aug 16–17: BearPa Challenge
Teton Village, WY. 117-mile gran fondo in the
shadows of the Tetons and Greater Yellowstone
Area. Scott Horn, 307-739-2676,
teamjacksonhole.com
Longmont, CO. Boulder County Fairgrounds. Min
$150 fundraising. Kelly Jackson, 1-888-DIABETES,
x7020, tourdecurecolorado.com
Golden, CO. 200 miles, 15,500’ of climbing,
18-hour limit. Epic loop traversing the famed
Trail Ridge Road (11,000’) in Rocky Mountain
National Park. 48 miles of the most majestic high
altitude mountain scenery in the state. Lights
required. Start 3am. Part of Triple Crown Series.
Mark Lowe, Rocky Mountain CC, rmccrides.com
Aug 11: Ride for Sight
Aug 24: Jackson Hole Gran Fondo
Salt Lake Valley, UT. The Big Ride returns to
the Salt Lake Valley with the South Loop course
and a metric option on the Wasatch Front and
120 option on the Wasatch Back From Draper
Park. 8500’ total vertical gain. Start 9am. Don
Williams, Bonneville Cycling Club, 801-641-4020,
bccutah.org
Denver, CO. Watch stages of the USA Pro Cycling
Challenge throughout the Rocky Mountains while
riding some of the same demanding terrain the
Pros do. Finish Line Cycling, 720-295-0758,
finishlinecycling.com
Aug 19–25: USA Pro Challenge
Colorado
Denver, CO. Advanced. Ride between 60 to
101 miles per day. Ride the epic landscapes of
Colorado’s Rocky Mountains and the Continental
Divide. Bicycle Adventures, 800-443-6060,
bicycleadventures.com
Aug 24–25: Bike MS: Pedal los Pueblos
Pojoaque, NM. Ride through beautiful northern
NM to fund research, programs and services.
Fully supported 2-day ride. 36, 58, 86 miles or a
full century for Saturday and 40 or 56 miles on
Sunday. Caters to all rider levels. Maggie Schold,
MS Society - Rio Grande Division, 505-243-2698,
bikemsnewmexico.org
Aug 24: Cache Valley Century Tour
Richmond, UT. Century, metric century and 40mile options. Lunch and rest stops. Century goes
through Idaho and back to Utah. Start between
8 and 9am. Bob Jardine, Cache Valley Veloists
Bicycle Touring Club, 435-713-0288,
CacheValleyCentury.com
Aug 24: CASVAR
Afton, WY. Start at Canyon Park. Pony Express
20, Colt 45, Pioneer 65, Blazing Saddle 85 and
Saddle Sore century rides. You will see bison, but
not many cars. Howard Jones, 307-883-9779,
casv.org
Park City, UT. 100 miles. Ride Lost Creek and
Chalk Creek starting in Coalville. Meet at
Coalville Courthouse on Main Street at 9am. Don
Williams, Bonneville Cycling Club, 801-641-4020,
bccutah.org
Moab, UT. Free entrance. The perfect time to
ride your road bike in the parks. Distances vary.
435-259-8825, nps.gov
Aug 27: FrontRunner Century
Salt Lake City, UT. 100-mile scenic tour of the
Wasatch from SLC to Ogden, return by train.
Rest stops, SAG, meal, swag. Minimum elevation
gain. Limit 1200. For The Win Racing, LLC,
frontrunnercentury.com
Aug 31: Hooper Horizontal 100 BCC SS
Salt Lake, UT. Meet at Westpoint Park 9am.
Self-supported club ride, non-members welcome.
Flat course 100-miler from SLC to Hooper, Plain
City, and back. 30- and 65-mile options available.
Greg Allen, Bonneville Cycling Club, bccutah.org
Aug 31–Sep 7: LAGBRAU
Moab, UT. 8 days, 5 national parks, 4 state
parks, 2 national monuments, and 1 national
recreation area. 400 miles. Very scenic bicycle
ride. Les Titus, 801-654-1144, lagbrau.com
Aug 31–Sep 2: Trail of the
Mountain Spirits
Silver City, NM. Covers a 105-mile loop over 3
days on Nat’l Scenic Byway. Average 30-40 miles
per day. Fully supported. One of New Mexico’s
finest cycling routes. Limit 75. James Harms,
520-241-5556, bikegaba.org
September
Sep 1: West Elk Bicycle Classic
Gunnison, CO. Demanding 134-mile gran fondo
with about 9300' of climbing. Ride from Gunnison
to Crested Butte, CO circumnavigating the West
Elk Mountains. Includes 25-mile 5000’ climb over
the dirt Kebler pass. Benefits Western State Colorado University’s sport teams. Limit 250 riders.
970-318-6783, westelkbicycleclassic.com
Sep 7: Capulin Volcanic Classic
Raton, NM. 400km, focused around climbing
the symmetrical, cinder cone Capulin Volcano,
which rises 1300’ above the surrounding plains
to 8182’. Start 6am. RUSA event. 505-263-7090,
nmbrevets.com
Sep 7: LOTOJA Classic
Logan, UT. European-style classic. 206 miles
total, up and down 3 mountain passes in first 110
miles. Starts in Logan, finishes in Jackson Hole,
WY. Must finish before dark. Pre-reg only. Brent
Chambers, Epic Events, 801-546-0090,
lotojaclassic.com
Sep 7: RMCC - Copper Triangle
Copper Mountain, CO. 78 miles, 7000’ vertical.
Start 9am at trailhead and bike path parking lot
on southeast corner of Interstate 70 and State
Highway 91 in Copper Mountain. Fremont Pass,
Tennessee Pass, and Vail Pass. Self-sufficient. Part
of Challenge Series Short Course. Mark Lowe,
Rocky Mountain CC, rmccrides.com
Sep 7: Wild Horse Century
Cody, WY. Ride all 100 miles or any distance
you wish. Benefits the wild mustangs of the McCullough Peaks. Werner Noesner, Park County
Pedalers, wildhorsecentury.com
Sep 7: Wonder Woman Ride
Payson, UT. Conquer the 30-, 70- or 100-mile
event. Picturesque scenery. Fully supported, finish
line festival. For women by women. Mahogani
Thurston, 801-318-1420, wonderwomanride.com
Circle. From Red River to Questa and Taos, then
from Angel Fire to Black Lake. Returns through
Angel Fire, Black Lake, Eagle Nest and Red
River. 25-, 50-mile options. Karen Kelly, Red
River Chamber of Commerce, 575-754-2366 x 1,
redrivernewmex.com
Sep 8–13: People’s Coast Classic
Astoria, OR. Astoria to Brookings Harbor. 6-day
event benefits Arthritis Foundation. Daily 50-70
miles, rest stops, activities, dinner and camping
included. 2- and 4-day options available. Tai
Lee, Arthritis Foundation, 206-547-2707 x 106,
thepeoplescoastclassic.org
Sep 8–27: Santa Fe Trail Bicycle Trek
Santa Fe, NM. Ride all or part of the Santa Fe
Trail (approx 1100 miles) to New Franklin, MO,
on paved public roads. Fully supported, nonprofit, inexpensive camping trip. 50 rider limit.
Willard Chilcott, Santa Fe Century Committee,
505-982-1282, SantaFeTrailBicycleTrek.com
Sep 8: Tour de Tahoe
Lake Tahoe, NV. 11th annual. Ride around Lake
Tahoe on the shoreline, fully supported with rest
stops, tech support and SAG. 72 miles, 2600’
vertical gain. Boat cruise and 35-mile fun ride.
Post ride pool party and meal. Curtis Fong, Bike
The West, 800-565-2704, bikethewest.com
Sep 8: Wacky W
Castle Rock, CO. Ride the Wacky W to help the
Douglas County Schools. For riders of all abilities
followed by post-ride party. Wargin Events,
720-432-7265, wackyw.com
Track series
Tuesday
CVA Tuesday Night Racing
May 21–August 27
Colorado Springs, CO. Tentative dates. Schedule
of events varies each week. All participants must
be licensed members. A, B, and C self-category
racing. A must for those hoping to upgrade. No
points. Racing starts at 7pm. Claire Sanderson,
csvelodrome.org
Thursday
CVA Thursday Night Racing
May 23–September 12
Colorado Springs, CO. Tentative date. Weekly
night race series open to Senior men 1-2, Senior
women, Senior men 3 and Junior riders. Points
are allocated to the A and women’s group to
determine both Rider of the Year winners. Event
schedule varies. Racing starts at 7pm. Canceled if
raining. csvelodrome.org
Track
July
Jul 12–14: Alpenrose Challenge
Portland, OR. 3-day event bringing former and
future Olympians, World and National Champions to Portland for a race extravaganza. Includes
sprint and endurance events, as well as fastest
lap competition and kids races. ATRA NCS event.
Charlie Warner, 360-624-1801,
alpenrosechallenge.com
Jul 19–21: Marymoor Gran Prix
Redmond, WA. Daytime features individual and
team timed events. Nighttime showcases mass
start racing. Open to elite M/W and Masters.
Cash purse. Sunday is rain delay day. ATRA NCS
event. David Mann, 206-621-8868,
velodrome.org
Jul 20–21: Boulder Orthopedics
Colorado Track Championships
Erie, CO. First championships on the new track. Rob
Kelly, 303-875-5523, bouldervalleyvelodrome.com
Jul 25–28: USAC Junior Track
Nationals
Trexlertown, PA. usacycling.org
Jul 30–Aug 4: USAC Masters Track
Nationals
Indianapolis, IN. usacycling.org
August
Aug 9–11: USAC Elite Timed Track
Nationals
Carson, CA. usacycling.org
Aug 13: Bob Pfarr Memorial and
Kenosha Keirin
Kenosha, WI. ATRA NCS event. Paul Shilling,
kenoshavelodrome.com
Aug 22–24: USAC Elite Mass Start
Track Nationals
Rock Hill, SC. usacycling.org
Aug 23–24: UIV/IVBP 2 Day Madison
Cup
Rochester Hills, MI. ATRA NCS event. Dale
Hughes, 248-961-3705, ivbp.org
Sep 8: Buffalo Bicycle Classic
Boulder, CO. Routes of 14, 35, 50, 70 and
100 miles. Start between 7 and 9:30am.
Benefits CU’s College of Liberal Arts and Sciences. Online reg and Saturday reg on campus.
buffalobicycleclassic.com
Sep 8: Enchanted Circle Century
Red River, NM. 36th annual. 100-mile loop
around beautiful and challenging Enchanted
Family Friendly Ride
Supports Bicycle Colorado
Commercial
Rocky Mountain Road Cup Point Scale
Bronze,
Silver,
Gold
July / August 2013
Opinion
The Natural
By Maynard Hershon
I
t’s a nice day on the
Starbucks patio outside the REI Flagship
store in Denver. As I
lean my old Lighthouse
bicycle against the railing, a guy at the next
table (maybe 55, not on
a bike, little roll over his
belt) asks me if I had the
bike made. I did, I say, and go inside to get my
coffee.
When I come out, he’s waiting for me. He’s
like a lot of guys; they ask you something about
your whatever only to go on at great length about
their own whatever. He’d asked about my Lighthouse as an icebreaker, but he’s not interested in
it except as it relates to his search.
He’d been custom-bike shopping and made
his choice. He wants to tell me why his choice
is the only possible choice; guys who do it other
ways are fools. “Gotta buy a custom,” he said.
“Production bikes are just junk, crap the factories
figure they can get away with selling you.”
He told me he looked in bike shops all over
greater Denver. He found that the shop employees
(with very few exceptions) were incompetent,
ignorant and unscrupulous. “They’d sell you
anything you express interest in,” he said, “based
strictly on stand-over height. What they care
about in shops is watching another sold bike roll
out the door, and watching your money find its
way into the cash drawer.”
I asked him what kind of bike he has now. “A
carbon Trek,” he said, “but I have back trouble
and it doesn’t fit.” He said he talked to guys in several different
shops about bike fit and the guys didn’t know what
they were talking about. Because of his back he
has special needs, needs they’re not equipped or
willing to address. He tiptoed right up to calling
them thieves or scam artists but held himself back.
He thought about Serottas, Litespeeds, Merlins and Waterfords. He went to three Serotta
dealers. He wanted a steel bike, he told me, because... Why tell you what he said? You’ve heard
it a thousand times. He decided on a steel fork
too, because all the raving about carbon fiber is
just hype. It’s junk.
Those bike shop guys, even if they are designated fitters and have attended fit clinics, can’t
be trusted. He said he’d found a guy after a great
deal of searching who could be trusted. That guy
was going to fit him and send the results, the specs
for the bike, to Waterford in Wisconsin, where
they make the best bikes. Waterford will make
him a steel bike that’ll really fit him, made of
“True Temper tubing, the best tubing.”
He raved about the guy who is going to design
his frame. That guy, he said “is like an Edison or
a Michelangelo. Doesn’t need no stinking clinics.
He’s a natural.” So too, he said, “are the guys at
Waterford who’ll be building his frame. Naturals.
They were filing kiddie lugs in their playpens.”
Some guys are naturals, he explained to me.
Maybe a guy who’s not a natural can learn to
weld, for instance, and spend years perfecting
his craft. Another guy, a natural, can just weld
better — even if he hardly ever does it. It’s in
his blood somehow. Well, the guy fitting him to
his not-yet-ordered Waterford is that kind of
natural, a born bike guy. He’s a genius. Knows
everything about bicycles.
That guy can just look at you and imagine
you sitting ideally, comfortably, efficiently on
your bike. He looks at you — and he can see all
that. The fitter owns lots of bikes himself and
says the best bike ever made is a Bruce Gordon.
He shows you his own Bruce Gordon, the best bike ever made.
I’m drinking my coffee and trying to enjoy the lovely day on the REI patio but the guy is wearing me down.
He told me he’s getting the Waterford model with just a bit more wheelbase so it could be used
for light touring. He’d spec’d an external Chris King headset because he’s sure that “any frame with
an integrated headset is a POS. Wouldn’t have it for free.“
He said he decided that Serottas cost more than they can possibly be worth, and that Serotta
has such a huge investment with the fit clinics and all that they have to sell their bikes for big money.
He said he’d met a young woman with a Serotta Ottrott and could not believe the wheels on the
bike. “Cheap wheels,” he said. “And an integrated headset! What junk!”
He told me he’d chosen not to get a lugged frame, though he’d been tempted by the sexy polished
stainless steel lugs that Waterford can provide. Why? “Because of all the lowlifes who lurk outside the
REI store and Starbucks waiting for a chance to steal something flashy and pricey-looking. Young
guys with tattoos, their hungry eyes on your Waterford.”
I didn’t know what to say to the guy, didn’t even know where to start. I guess I don’t believe
in naturals or geniuses, just folks who show up at their shops and do good work. I don’t believe in
guru craftsmen. I’d rather deal with guys who get the job done as promised, even if they sink when
they step out onto the water.
I admire Ben Serotta; lots of smart people pay good money for his bicycles because they see
the worth in them. I defended Ben and the guy asked me how I knew him. I told him I’d written
the Serotta catalog for a couple of years. He never asked me how I might get to a place where
someone like Ben would hire me to represent him in his catalog. He didn’t care. He had a story to
tell and he told it.
I have almost been in that situation myself, telling Hewlett Packard about printers, but never
eyeballs-deep in it. When I think of the one or two times I’ve been close, I am mortified. I want to
disappear from the earth.
I’m sure that you and I and the guy from the REI patio could find happiness with bicycles built
by dozens of people in several materials, perhaps even factory-made bikes with integrated headsets
and affordable wheels.
And if you can’t trust bike shop employees, what retail employees CAN you trust? Where do
you get treated better than at your bike shop? Who lavishes more time on you than bicycle fitters? I suspect that the REI patio guy uses his bike to ride to the REI patio and back home again.
Nevertheless he’s made himself an expert on buzzwords and half-truths in his search for the finest
slightly-longer-wheelbase bicycle frame. I wished him luck with his new Waterford, if indeed that’s
what he ends up owning and occasionally riding. Who knows how long the buying process may
take, how many twists and turns....
If he’d told each bike shop employee whose time he wasted that for a dollar he’d go away, each
one would have handed over that dollar. I suspect that he’d have accumulated enough money in
that manner to pay for the frame. And a caramel frappuccino at Starbucks.
Product Reviews
Finn Utility’s Tool Roll Up
Fits Socks
By Darren Dencklau
By Darren Dencklau
F
ormer Portland, Ore., resident Ryan McDonald recently began designing products that are based on two of his
longtime passions — riding bikes
and fly fishing. He calls this latest
endeavor Finn Utility. Based out
of a woodsy location in Vermont,
the company handcrafts high end,
practical duffel bags and accessory
holders. I have been using the Tool Roll Up the
past couple of months. Here are my thoughts.
Constructed from 10-ounce waxed cotton
canvas, the Tool Roll Up has four front compartments of equal size as well as a full-length
pocket behind them. The top half folds over
these pockets and the whole piece rolls up and is
secured by an adjustable leather strap and solid
brass buckle. Easily attachable to a bike’s seat
rails, it fits snug under the saddle.
I usually keep an extra tube, multi-tool, tire
levers, a small crescent wrench and a patch kit
in it. While contents may not be as easy to access as with traditional seat bags, which have a
July / August 2013 rear zipper entry, it is still simple
enough to get to for roadside
repairs. I like the way it lays out
flat and I can place smaller parts like
washers and Allen bolts on it without
fear of losing them on the ground
while I am working on the bike —
the orange fabric located on the inside
contrasts nicely for this purpose. It can also
be used for other applications such as carrying
fishing gear or other small items that need to be
organized for transport.
Overall, I am very impressed by this product and foresee it being on my bike for years to
come. The leather strap and buckle seem to be
durable enough to handle thousands of openings
and closings as well. Aesthetically it stands out
from the norm and I believe this will catch the
eye of those looking for a seat bag to match their
leather Brooks saddle and/or appreciate more
natural looking gear.
Dimensions are 13” wide x 9” high before
folding. MSRP is $50. Made in the U.S.A. Visit
finnutility.e-beans.net for more information.
J
ust when I thought I couldn’t be
more impressed by and have more
socks (see winter 2012 issue of Bicycle
Paper), FITS Sock Co. sent me a little
care package. Based out of Niota,
Tenn., through Crescent Sock Co.,
this family owned company has
been in existence since 1902.
According to their website,
these socks are constructed from
“two-ply, compact-spun, ultrafine Merino wool”
and feature a “dynamic toe cup,
heel lock, and
full contact cuff.”
They are 100%
guaranteed to
fit. And fit they
d o. W h e n I
pulled them out
of the package I
was thinking they
looked too small. As
soon as I tried them on I realized that this was
not the case. In fact, they go on snug and
fit like a glove.
The “Runner” model
is no-show sock and I’ve
worn them on many
jogs to prepare for a
recent hike up Mt. St.
Helens. I am very impressed by the comfort
and lack of sliding. I
never got hot spots or
blisters and they can
go a few wears between washing. I am
impressed.
MSRP for this
model is $14.99. More
than the “Runner” the
company offers options
to meet your summer
to winter needs. For
more information visit
fitssock.com.
Rocky Mountain Bicycle Paper l 15