The Ultimate Fat Biking Resource
In the late depths of winter, it’s still possible to get out and rip around on a bike. Marquette County has been getting plenty of media attention this winter due to the ever-booming and ultra-unique niche pastime made popular in the area, Fat Tire Snow Biking. So, what the heck is “Fat Biking” anyways? Well, here are all the “ins and outs” of this interesting silent sport that has recently taken over the winter recreational world.
Fat Bike Beginnings and Basics
Fat Biking, as it’s properly termed, originated in Alaska more than a decade ago but has only recently caught hold in the lower 48 states. Coming in stock, hard tail and full-suspension models and resting on anywhere from 3.8 – 4.8 in. knobby tires, fat bikes can be easily termed the monster trucks of the bike world. With additional upgrades available such as hand warmers, gear bags and disc brakes, fat bikes are far from being slender in build.
Known for durability and incredible handling over rough terrain in all seasons, fat bikes are commonly used in the winter season for snow biking enthusiasts. If one were to climb onto one of these behemoths, they would be impressed with the ease of balance and sense of security while riding. Having such a wide tire inflated with very little air pressure, the amount of surface area of tire gripping the snow makes for a very floaty and comfortable ride.
What to Wear
Just like many other outdoor recreational sports most popular in the winter months, wearing the proper clothing and equipment is a very important aspect. One thing to note is that it is important to not overdress for snow biking. A good rule of thumb is that one should be slightly chilled on the bike before pedaling starts.
Choose a good thermal base layer that is breathable to start with. Add an additional layer if necessary depending on the temperatures the day of the ride. Windproof and waterproof outer layers covering breathable long sleeved thermal shirts is a popular combination among riders. Thick lined mittens or gloves are necessary to keep your hands warm, and added wind protection is provided through the use of Handlebar Pogies (hand warmers) that are attached to the bike’s handle bars. Lined winter boots are a great way to keep your feet warm on a long ride. Clipless boots made specifically for winter biking are a popular choice as a rider’s skill level increases.
Keep your face protected from the wind and outdoor elements by wearing a neck warmer or scarf and be sure to wear sunglasses or goggles for eye protection from the sun and wind. A winter hat should be worn (beanie style) underneath a conventional bike helmet, or there are winter bike helmets available on the market that provide safety and warmth all in one. Long underwear pants or thin sweats can be worn under conventional snow pants to keep your legs warm and protected from the wind as well.
Where to Ride
Make the Noquemanon Trail Network and RAMBA trails in Marquette County, Michigan your destination for miles of groomed single track trails. For a virtual tour of every square inch of the Noquemanon Trail Network and RAMBA snow bike route, click on the linked trail name to scope out your ride before you even step foot on a pedal!
Get On a Bike!
Are you looking to get on the snow bike trails in Marquette County today? No problem! Bikes are available for demo, rental, or purchase at these awesome locations in Marquette County!
Downwind Sports
514 N. Third Street
Marquette, MI 49855
906.226.7112
http://downwindsports.com/mainSite/
Lakeshore Bike
505 North Lakeshore Boulevard
Marquette, MI 49855
906.228.7547
Quick Stop Bike Shop
1100 North 3rd Street
Marquette, MI 49855
906.225.1577
www.quickstopbike.com
Sports Rack LTD
315 W. Washington Street
Marquette, MI 49855
800.775.8338
www.sportsrackmqt.com
– Barry Winslow is the Director of PR and Social Media at TravelMarquetteMichigan.com.
