Ride 2017

RiDE 2017 GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE & EVENTS

[BIG BIKE] FIND IT IN THE

DIRECTORY

PIT STOPS

Destinations and

wayside breaks

PLUS

THE 2017

Church

of DIRT

BIKE CALENDAR

Ditch the pavement for dusty dirt trails, fire roads, meandering two tracks, and crunchy gravel roads

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

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contents DEPARTMENTS

FEATURES

24 Church of dirt

Ditch the pavement for dirt trails, fire roads, two tracks and gravel roads

28 The transformative power of bikes

FROM THE EDITOR .................................. 4

10 ways to promote cycling and build a bike-centric community

My sweet new ride

OUR 2017 CONTRIBUTORS ..................... 6

Meet the writers

PEDAL APPEAL ........................................ 8 Big tires, MIPS helmets, Strider bikes, tubeless tires

BIKEWAYS & WISE ................................. 12

Bike-share program, sweet streets, hone your skills, tapestry of trails

PIT STOPS .............................................. 16 Fun in the Fort, get going in Greeley, sculpting your Loveland ride

SPOKE OUT ........................................... 20

Clubs & cliques, bicycle ambassadors, be the change, bike-friendly business

THE LAST MILE ...................................... 64 Ride, because…

32

F ear not, casual riders All bicyclists are welcome here

42 The BIG bike

SHOPPING SPREE ......................... 38

All things bicycle in northern Colorado

MAPS

BREW TOUR ................................. 34 Destination: craft beer

Bike shops and makers

ABOUT THE COVER: Rosie, Katherine and Brian, ride the Poudre River Trail at sunset. Photo by Cheri Schonfeld of Sky’s Open Designs.

directory

52 Shifting shots 58

a photo gallery of two-wheeled fun

Bike Calendar Cycling events & classes

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MY SWEET NEW RIDE KIM SHARPE

MY WANDERING’S LAST SUMMER included a trip to the home of a guy selling bikes on Craig’s List because I needed a new-to-me bike to get me around town. Nothing fancy. Just functional. The seller had a herd of two-wheeled steeds corralled in his driveway. It was a used-bike emporium. A bike collector’s dream!

I quickly scanned the crowd from side to side and front to back till my eyes landed on a circa mid-’80s Diamondback Ascent. Her solid frame looked perfect for carrying grocery-laden panniers. Her turquoise color (even the riser handlebars) complemented my eyes…and my POC helmet and my jacket and my shoes. When worn together, I look like a Smurf rolling down the road. But I digress.

When I took that sweet little bike for a test ride, the deal was sealed. I cleaned her up, outfitted her with new tires, a front fender, a rear rack, and named her Alice, which is derived from the Hebrew name Alisha, meaning great happiness or joy. Perfect! Because that’s what I feel every time I ride her.

The 2017 Ride magazine brings me joy, too. It has a sexy new design and layout that includes four departments up front with small bite-sized chunks of info to get you rolling; a photo gallery showing off some of NoCo’s best bike events; and the Big Bike Directory to help you find what you need—from locally made cycles and gear to bike shops to ride guides to biker gangs. We preserved some of the old style too, like the Brew Tour and Bike Store maps, and a couple compelling feature stories. Kory Swanson’s will have you singing praises and worshipping in a dirty, but not irreverent, kind of way. Chris Johnson suggests 10 ways bikes can make our world a better place. The book closes with a thoughtful piece that further explores the healing power of pedaling and offers universal truths about why we ride.

We’ve also gone live on the world wide web at www.ride-magazine. com. This is where you can find the e-version of this issue, plus archives of past Rides. Maps of popular NoCo road, mountain, commuter and family-friendly routes can be found here, as well as links to city maps.

So, at the end of day, after The Last Mile, I hope the Ride brings you much happiness and sweet joy.

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2017 GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE & EVENTS PUBLISHER Scott Titterington scott.rmpublishing@gmail.com EDITOR Kim Sharpe kim.kbccommunications@gmail.com COPY EDITOR Kristin Titterington kristin.rmpublishing@gmail.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR Emily Zaynard emily.rmpublishing@gmail.com ADVERTISING SALES DIRECTOR Greg Hoffman greg.rmpublishing@gmail.com COVER PHOTO Cheri Schonfeld courtesy of Sky’s Open Design CONTRIBUTOR/PROFILE PORTRAITS Cheri Schonfeld, www.skysopendesign.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Sylvia Cranmer, Kyle Eustice, Chris Johnson, Carl Nassar, Kim Sharpe, Kory Swanson ROCKY MOUNTAIN PUBLISHING 825 Laporte Ave., Fort Collins, CO 80521 Voice 221-9210 Fax 221-8556 editor@rockymountainpub.com www.RMParent.com Ride 2017 is a special publication of Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. Publication of this magazine does not constitute an endorsement of the products or services advertised. RMP reserves the right to refuse any advertisement for any reason. The opinions expressed by contributors or writers do not necessarily reflect the opinions of Rocky Mountain Publishing. ©2017 Rocky Mountain Publishing, Inc. All rightsreserved.

Reproduction without express written permission is prohibited.

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| OUR 2017 CONTRIBUTORS |

CHRIS JOHNSON, executive director of Bike Fort Collins, works to advance bicycling and safe streets for ALL. He mostly rides to get free burritos twice a year on Bike to Work Day, and he mostly works for BFC because he believes cities that prioritize sustainable, affordable, active transportation are healthier, safer, more vibrant and more inclusive.

[NOT PICTURED]

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KIM SHARPE writes for a living, but lives for riding. She’s happiest when sailing along on two wheels.

KORY SWANSON is a professional word guy and tale spinner who believes life without bikes would be like living in a field of rotting pumpkins with the manure spreader stuck in the on position.

SYLVIA CRANMER is an avid bike

KYLE EUSTICE is a part-time vegan

commuter, and has a goal of getting our current POTUS on a bike, in the Tour de Fat. She also has been the chair of the Fort Collins Bicycle Advisory Committee through two inaugurations, two local bike program managers, several levels of bike-friendly community awards, two brewery expansions, one stadium and 800 million Otterboxes.

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

who is madly in love with her iPod, Specialized bike, two chihuahuas and new husband Paul, and believes hashtags are stupid, but still uses them anyway. #justride

CARL NASSAR was once an electrical

engineer, is now a therapist and has always been a cyclist, even when it meant pushing his bike uphill as a young child. He directs Heart-Centered Counseling and lives in Fort Collins, Colo., with his wife (Gretchen), daughter (Kaila) and three cats (who have requested anonymity).

34 TAPS!

Full bar, Full menu, Full service bike shop!

LUBE YOUR MIND, BODY, AND BIKE

PATIO FRIENDS FUN

5 OLD TOWN SQUARE | FORT COLLINS

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| PEDAL APPEAL | KYLE EUSTICE

FROM HEAD TO TOE

PHOTO COURTESY OF LAKECYCLING.COM

CYCLISTS RIDE FOR freedom and to have fun, but the fun ends if you get injured. As with all wheeled sports, helmets are recommended safety gear when cycling to protect that stuff between your ears.

Helmets with a built in MIPS system have become highly sought after basic accessories.

Short for “Multi-directional Impact Protection System,” a MIPS helmet is equipped with slip-plane technology inside the cover, which is designed to reduce rotational forces that can result from certain impacts. “We’ve seen a rise in MIPS helmet [sales],” says Hood. “They allow for your head to rotate in a crash instead of pivot. It’s all theoretical, but instead of pivoting, your head can rotate inside the helmet. Rather than a broken neck, you might get a headache.”

And because comfy feet are happy feet, it’s important to have comfortable shoes.

Drew Chapman, of Bike Peddler Cycling & Fitness in Greeley, says he’s noticed a shift in cycling shoes. “Most shoes are going from velcro [closures] to the Boa system—even running shoes and ski boots,” Chapman says.

The Boa closure system employs a mechanical reel or knob to tighten a steel shoelace, which results in equal tension around a foot. “I’ve seen a lot of people out at races going back to laces on their shoes to make them more vintage looking,” says Chapman. “I think they have that cool factor.”

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BIG, BAD AND RAD PLUS-SIZE TIRES are becoming the norm. If you’re thinking about getting a bike this year, or want to add another one to your collection, you might want to think big!

According to Jimmie Hawkes of Lee’s Cyclery in Loveland, “Tires continue to grow rapidly, especially for 27.5-inch wheeled bikes, although 29-inch still remains the top selling wheel size for cross-country and trail riding.” Fort Collins’ Peloton Cycles General Manager Dana Hood agrees, “The 27.5-inch plus tires have gained a lot of traction. We were some of the early adopters, so we’ve been pushing it for two years.” Hood also says the 27.5-inchplus tires provide the biggest traction for quartering and climbing, which inspires more confidence. Due to the wheel’s smaller diameter, the weight is more centered, providing the nimbleness of a 27.5-inch, but the rollover benefits of a 29-inch.

Hood also has noticed a boost in full-suspension mountain and gravel bike sales. “The road category has definitely dwindled.

Companies are trying to combat that with gravel bikes. We’ve seen a decent growth in gravel bikes this season.”

GO TUBELESS PUNCTURE THIS…or not! Across the board, tubeless tires are all the rage, as are simpler components and accessories.

Dana Hood at Fort Collins’ Peloton location calls them a “no-brainer.”

In fact, any performance mountain bike over $2,000 has tubeless tires installed immediately. In addition, dropper posts continue to be a top upgrade for trail mountain bikes, as well as large bike-packing bags for gravel grinding and weekend trips.

At the Fort Collins Bike Co-Op, although they don’t sell new products, shop manager Justin Mohar has a solid grasp on current bike trends. “We’ve seen a huge upswing in tubeless tires,” he says. “One

interesting thing I’ve noticed in terms of componentry, is a push back against integrated bottom brackets or press fit brackets.

Tight friction fits are preferred instead.

Customers aren’t happy with the longevity of those components. More complicated doesn’t necessarily mean long-lasting, especially if they aren’t racing.”

David Roberts, owner of Spokes, Inc. in Windsor, has seen an upswing in high-tech products. “Lights are getting better and brighter and more rechargeable all the while taking up less room on the handle bars,” he says. “Better locks are getting more portable, as well. You no longer have to carry a massive U-lock around just to keep your bike safe.”

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PHOTO COURTESY OF STRIDERBIKES.COM

| PEDAL APPEAL | KYLE EUSTICE

FINDING A LITTLE BALANCE IN RECORD NUMBERS, parents teaching their young to ride are ditching training wheels in favor of pedal-less balance bikes. Strider® is a popular balance bike; the brand name often is synonymous with this type of two-wheeled machine. They’re proven to be extremely effective in helping kids learn to balance and master other biking basics.

Chapman, at Bike Peddler Cycling & Fitness, explains, “Getting a kid on a bike is huge. Striders teach balance, the motion of cycling and how to carry momentum. It makes it an easier transition to a real bike and most kids can bypass training wheels altogether.”

Kids bikes also are getting lighter and are available with

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GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

higher-end options, mostly because kids are getting into road and mountain bike racing at earlier ages. Roberts of Spokes has noticed it’s easier to find smaller sizes of quality mountain bikes, which in turns leads to the availability of smaller technical clothing, gloves and shoes.

There’s also a surge in demand for kids helmets with a magnetic buckle. They help parents avoid hearing the blood-curdling screams associated with a child’s neck getting pinched in a traditional helmet strap clasp. Screams of sheer, exhilarated joy associated with biking bliss are so much better.

SOMETIMES SOMETIMESITITISISABOUT ABOUT BIKE THETHE BIKE

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

4612 S MASON #110 | 970-204-9935 | WWW.PROVELOBIKES.COM

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| BIKE WAYS & WISE | KIM SHARPE

NO BIKE? NO PROBLEM.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF FORT COLLINS BIKE SHARE

UNLOCK. RIDE. RETURN. Borrowing a bike to zip around town for errands or to get to an appointment is simple in Fort Collins. The City’s popular Bike Library has been redesigned to become a full-blown bike-share program powered

by Zagster cruiser bikes. There are nearly 20 stations around town where you can borrow a bike, with more expected at CSU and elsewhere. Also special valet service will be provided at CSU football games.

“With Fort Collins Bike Share you have a bike when you need it—whether it’s for a quick bite to eat or a leisurely ride on the trails,” says Amy Lewin, senior transportation planner with the City of Fort Collins. “It’s also easy to combine biking with transit. You can take the MAX and then grab a bike at one of the many nearby stations.”

Get the whole scoop at http://bike. zagster.com/fortcollins/.

In Greeley, the City has a fleet of bikes for its employees to use to get around town. It also has bike racks available at no charge for businesses to install for their bike-riding patrons to use. All a business has to do is ask and it shall receive. Eric Bracke, Greeley’s traffic engineer, in charge of the city’s bike program says, “If you want one, we’ll give you one.” Nice!

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ZAGSTER GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

A TAPESTRY OF TRAILS AN AERIAL VIEW of northern Colorado’s nearly 200 miles of multi-use trails would look somewhat like a tapestry, with bike-friendly fiber woven through it in every direction. And the fabric is getting better connected all the time.

“The big news is that for the first time in history, the two largest cities in Larimer County—Loveland and Fort Collins—will be connected by trail,” says Janet Meisel-Burns, Loveland senior parks planner. “This is a huge, huge win in terms of increasing options for biking, walking and running, and increasing safety!”

Meisel-Burns also is really excited that construction on the remaining connections of the Long View Trail—the second trail that will connect the two cities—will get under way in the fall. “What’s cool about Long View is it will run through five natural areas that are currently only visible from roads. Once the trail is in, people will be able to experience them by biking and walking. That will be fabulous!”

If you’re wondering when the Poudre River Trail will be complete from Laporte through to Greeley, know that work on a major piece of the remaining gap will take place soonish, like 2018-2021. The

bridge over the Poudre River on Interstate 25 just north of Harmony Road will be replaced by Colorado Department of Transportation and will include a trail segment underneath the interstate. The City of Fort Collins plans to construct two remaining trail segments located on either side of I-25 to connect the trail with the existing Poudre Trail in the Arapahoe Bend Natural Area. “This is a special project. The trail crossing at I-25 is significant, as it’s a key step in accomplishing the vision for the Poudre Trail and connectivity between northern Colorado communities.” says Kurt Friesen, City of Fort Collins Park Planning & Development director. Meanwhile, shorter connections to the Poudre Trail are in the works, like the expansion of the Sheepdraw Trail in Greeley.

Before you know it, NoCo’s trail network will be one beautiful work of art.

If you want to dig into the nitty-gritty of NoCo’s multi-use trails, check out the recently adopted “Non-Motorized Plan” for the region at http://nfrmpo.org/bike-ped/.

HONE YOUR SKILLS PHOTO COURTESY OF BHADESIGNINC.

DO YOU HAVE SKILLS? No, not nunchuck skills, bow-hunting skills or computer-hacking skills. How about sweet bike skills? If not, there’s a new place in town where you can hone ‘em.

The Walk & Wheel Skills Hub, designed to feel like a real neighborhood, will open this summer as a car-free space on the south side of Rolland Moore Park in Fort Collins. It will have streets for practicing safe-cycling techniques; picnic tables and sitting areas for hanging out; and plants and flowers you can stop and smell, but signal your intention first, please.

“We’re working with lots of partners like Summitview Church, the City’s Natural Areas department and Art in Public Places to make the new Skills Hub a place where people can learn about safe bicycling and walking,” says Tessa Greegor, FC Bikes program manager. “It’s a place where people can come together as a community and get excited about active transportation.”

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| BIKE WAYS & WISE | KIM SHARPE

PHOTO COURTESY OF AJ SWANSON

NOCO STREETS—

GETTING BUFF, GOING GREEN & TO THE BIRDS? Taft Hill Road, Shields Street and Lemay Avenue, all known for high traffic counts and the potential for bike/ped/car conflicts. So how can toucans make cycling safer and what are they if not tropical birds? According to FC Bikes, they are specially designed intersections that:

• Provide “push buttons” on center islands for bicyclists to activate a crossing signal without having to cross over to a push a button on a sidewalk • Restricts exiting vehicles on minor streets to right turn only (reducing potential conflicts with bicyclists and pedestrians) • Communicate easy, clear signage directions for bicyclists and motor vehicles

Greegor says these toucan intersection designs will be the first of their kind in Colorado. That’s something to squawk about!

Beyond that, Fort Collins is one of 10 US cities chosen by PeopleForBikes to participate in its Big Jump Project that will help it “radically re-imagine [its] bicycling infrastructure…proving that when cities make smart changes, more people ride bikes, and communities become better places to live, work and play.”

“The Big Jump Project provides a huge boost for Fort Collins as we focus on being a community where people of all ages and abilities can safely and comfortably ride a bike,” Greegor says.

PHOTO COURTESY OF BIKE FORT COLLINS

IF YOU’VE BICYCLED ON CITY STREETS AROUND NoCo lately, you might have noticed how buff they’re getting. Buff as in buffered—where bike lanes are separated from motor traffic and parking lanes by designated space or physical barriers. They’re greening up, too. Like along a mile of bike lane on Greeley’s 20th Street from 71st to 83rd Avenues where a fresh coat of green paint makes it distinguishable as a place where bikes belong.

The low-stress bikeway developing along Pitkin Street from Riverside to Overland Trail in Fort Collins will gain a few toucans this year. Toucan crossings will be constructed where Pitkin intersects

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| PIT STOPS | KORY SWANSON

GET ROLLING IN GREELEY GREELEY IS COMMITTED TO CYCLING and has a plan to become a Gold-level biking community.

With close to 100 miles of designated bike lanes or trails, you’ll enjoy hours of riding, and find a multitude of bike-friendly places to stop when you’re out and about.

If movies are your thing, roll out to Greeley Bike’s annual free movie night hosted at the historic Kress Cinema

and Lounge. The showing is in April in conjunction with Earth Week.

Pedal on over with your friends or family, leave the bikes with the valet and spend some time in front of the silver screen. If you miss the Kress Cinema movie event, plan to ride to one of the bike-in movies that will take place in the summer at various locations. Movie dates, times and locations are posted on Greeley Bikes’ website: www.greeleybikes.com.

Looking for a bite to eat and something to quench your thirst? Wind your way to the Cranford Cove Tea Tavern or Woody’s Newsstand– Café & Coffeebar. The Cove features loose leaf teas that you can sip there or take home, but offers other options as well— from local craft brews to coffee, cocktails and eats.

Woody’s, a bit of a throw-

back newsstand, offers hand-crafted coffees, homemade food and more reading material than you can consume during one sitting.

Interested in something fermented?

The craft beer scene is alive and well in Greeley. Visit Weld Works Brewery, Crabtree Brewery or Broken Plow Brewery to enjoy a variety of frosty creations ranging from the light and refreshing to the dark and strong.

SCULPT YOUR RIDE AROUND LOVELAND MANY CYCLISTS LOVE ART, and Loveland, if you haven’t heard, is home to a thriving art scene. So, it didn’t take long until someone asked, “Why not combine the two?” After some creative planning, a two-wheeled art tour was born. The inaugural “Art by Bike” program kicked off last

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fall and will continue in 2017. We didn’t have a lot of details at press time, but the last event was organized through the City’s Chilson Recreation Center.

Keep an eye out for more information at www.cityofloveland.org.

If organized rides don’t turn your crank,

TAKE IN FORT COLLINS has a pay-what-you-can policy and a mission to feed whomever walks through its doors. It’s a true testament to the caring community of Fort Collins.

Sweet tooth got a grip on you, but you want to earn those calories? Then head north of town by taking the Poudre Trail (a multi-use rec trail) to Overland Trail (a road, actually) into Laporte and Me Oh My Coffee and Pie. The café supports NoCo’s thriving local food movement, sourcing most of its ingredients from nearby farms. Want to ride a little farther? The Howling Cow Café at Morning Fresh Dairy will treat you to delicious coffee concoctions, as well as some of the best chocolate milk you’ll ever taste.

But don’t forget about Fort Collins’ world-renowned craft beer! New Belgium and Odell breweries are mainstays for all sorts of fun and love when patrons show up by bike. But for something different, why

not book a tour? The folks over at Beer and Bike Tours will show you a great time. Or hop on the Mason Trail and design your own tour. At the south end of the trail, you’ll discover Zwei Brewing.

As you wind your way north, stop at 1933 Brewing Company, Maxline Brewing and Black Bottle Brewery before arriving in Old Town where craft brews are practically bubbling over into the streets. See the Brew Tour Map on pages 34-35 for a comprehensive guide of fun, fermented destinations.

but you still crave art, visit the beautiful Benson Sculpture Park where you can get lost in a world of life-sized bronze sculptures. And if you’re on the east side of Interstate 25, visit Chapungu Sculpture Park at Centerra. Dedicated solely to stone art from Zimbabwe, you can cruise a maze of paths

enjoying art from another land.

Care to ride your bike and end it with beer and food? Downtown Loveland has options for you. The bike-friendly Loveland Aleworks crafts a variety of delicious beers. Lock your bike along Fourth Street, treat yourself to a pint and

then take a short stroll. You’ll find the colorful Mo ‘Betta Gumbo for some tasty Cajun and creole-style food. Or, if you’re jonesing for burgers and fries, stop at Henry’s Pub, a classic spot where you can relax and share food, drink and good times with friends.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE CITY OF FORT COLLINS

FORT COLLINS, A PLATINUMLEVEL biking community, has so many bike-friendly destinations, it’s hard to know where to start.

The Museum of Discovery located on the north end of Old Town is right off the Poudre Trail. It’s a great place to take the kids on a Saturday where you can enjoy hands-on experiences, and learn from exhibits about local history and so much more.

Need a little nourishment while you’re there?

Flat Hat Coffee makes delicious beverages and treats for the whole family or head across the street to the FoCo Café. This delightfully decorated and delicious nonprofit eatery, open only for lunch,

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FOR ALL TYP ES BEER F OF O S PE E P O Y T

E! PL

AL L

| PIT STOPS | KORY SWANSON

We grow

hops.

We brew

beer.

Come taste our

hops in action.

Harmony Road

Windsor

I-25 Hwy 392 / Main St.

17th St.

• Live music every Friday & Saturday night • Firkin Hump Day every Wednesday!

• Nice ride from Fort Collins

970-674-2841 • 6461 Hwy 392 • Windsor www.HighHopsBrewery.com for event schedule and beer list.

SERVICING ALL MAKES AND MODELS NOW ACCEPTING TRADE-INS

BIKES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY • www.breakaway-cycles.com

970-663-1726 • 2237 W. Eisenhower Blvd. • Loveland

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| SPOKE OUT | SYLVIA CRANMER AND KIM SHARPE

BIPPITY, BOPPITY, BAP AND ITS BFD SOME PEOPLE CALL THEM trail angels.

Others say they’re like fairy bike mothers and dads.

In actuality, they may not be quite so supernatural, but Bicycle Ambassadors do conjure up a sense of safety wherever they go.

The Bicycle Ambassador Program (BAP) trains volunteers who share their knowledge about safe riding with other bicyclists and motorists. You will find them out on the streets and trails, as well as in classes and at events.

The BAP’s array of classes covers all aspects of bicycling and includes skills and increasing knowledge that result in safer, more confident riders. In 2016, Bicycle Ambassadors taught Smart Cycling, Adult Learn to Ride, Winter Cycling, Cycling with Children, Women’s Cycling and Cycle Touring Basics.

The newest offering is the Bike Friendly Driver (BFD) class. It’s 90 minutes of informative fun designed to teach motorists how to share roads safely with people on bikes. The BFD class is such a big deal that it’s a featured program at this year’s National Bike Summit, hosted by the League of American Bicyclists in Washington D.C. Now that’s magical!

BAP is a subset of the City of Fort Collins FC Bikes. For more information, visit www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org.

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CLUB & CLIQUES SOMETIMES RIDING IS BETTER together. Whether you want to meet new people, challenge yourself to keep up with the pack, learn new skills, ride to destinations you might not discover on your own or enjoy group discounts—a cycling club might be right for you.

Cyclists who love road rides might want to check out Loveland’s PEDAL Club or the Fort Collins Cycling Club (FCCC). Amy Ehrenberger joined FCCC in 2007 after getting back into cycling après raising kids. When shopping for a new bike and thinking a hybrid might suit her, a couple of shop guys suggested Ehrenberger get a road bike so she could keep up with her friends. She says, “I told them none of my friends rode bicycles anymore. They were astonished and said, ‘You need to find some new friends!’ So I took their advice, bought a road bike and joined the FCCC. It was the best decision I have ever made! They were so right—I found fantastic new friends that love cycling as much as I do!”

Then there’s groups for dirty

folks—you know, mountain bikers who like to grind up hill and then enjoy the ecstasy of fast descents over mountains and through vales where they find that perfect flow. Overland Mountain Bike Club and Team B.O.B. (aka Babes on Bikes) are popular mountain and gravel riding clubs in the region.

If you get cranked up by competition, join a racing group. NoCo has several for riders of all ages and abilities. From Ciclismo for kids and teens to Fort Follies for women to 9Seventy Racing for everyone.

“The best thing about belonging to a ‘bike gang’ is the feeling of community and camaraderie,” says Carmen Ledesma-Feliciano, 9Seventy Racing team director. “In a team, you find a great resource of information about racing and training, and we are there for each other in the good times and the bad.

All in all, we’re not just a bunch of cyclists that get together, we’re an extended family.”

To get the full scoop on local racing, check out www.yourgroupride.com.

MAKE BIKE FRIENDLINESS YOUR BUSINESS

BIKE FRIENDLY BUSINESSES (BFB) are some of “the most creative and positive thinkers on the planet! I really enjoy working with them and hearing their widely diverse, forward-thinking stories,” says Kurt Freiburg, the BFB Network coordinator.

Frieburg and other BFB Network members work with businesses oneon-one to help them apply to become recognized by the League of American Bicyclists as bike friendly. “Mostly this means finding out their unique

situation and reflecting that in the application. We can also point out cool solutions that our existing BFB’s have come up with to be bike friendly, like offering a Smart Cycling class for employees, getting company drivers Bike Friendly Driver certified and starting an employee bike commute tracking system,” Freiburg explains.

If your business is interested in becoming a BFB, email info@bike fortcollins.org; a BFB Network team member will get back to you to get the wheels turning.

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PHOTO COURTESY OF FORT COLLINS BIKE SHARE

| SPOKE OUT | SYLVIA CRANMER AND KIM SHARPE

BE THE CHANGE WHAT DO YOU THINK would make biking around northern Colorado better?

Okay, besides free beer at regularly spaced fuel stops.

Many folks work hard behind the scenes to advocate for improved cycling conditions in NoCo. Whether it’s through assisting the families of victims in bike accidents, or getting the attention of elected officials to support programs, services or infrastructure improvements, bicycle advocacy ultimately makes our communities better and safer for riding.

Bike Fort Collins (BFC) is leading the way for riding on the roads, but the efforts don’t stop at the City’s boundaries. BFC Executive Director Chris Johnson says efforts are centered around the City Plan updates and a broad range of initiatives encouraging Larimer County to better

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address rural road safety and regional connectivity. “We’ll keep working with the City and the County to introduce policies that steer us toward safe and sustainable streets and neighborhoods,” he says in a recent blog post. Learn more at www.bikefortcollins.org.

Greeley’s Bike Advocacy Group wrestles with that city’s bike issues and often come out on top. Members meet the first Tuesday of each month at 11am at City Hall. Contact Eric Bracke if you’d like to join that team: 970-350-9357 or eric. bracke@greeleygov.com.

In recent years, the Sweetheart City’s active transportation advocates met as the Loveland Citizen’s Task Force for Walking and Biking. The group is in transition, but will continue in one form or another.

Learn more about participating and stay

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

informed by contacting Kelly Haworth, Larimer County health education supervisor, at khaworth@larimer.org or 970-498-6774.

On the off-road front, a collaborative effort is under way through the new Fort Collins Mountain Bike Advocacy group. According to group co-founder Steve Lacey, “The mission of the group is to bring the different mountain bike groups in the area together and discuss how we can enhance our soft surface trails and approach the different land agencies with a common directive.”

Lacey is the point person for more info: 970-443-0728 or slacey24@gmail.com.

For a comprehensive list of bike advocacy organizations at the state and national level: www.usacycling.org/cyclingadvocacy-organizations.htm.

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

RiDE | 23

CHURCH of DIRT

The CHURCH OF DIRT has many doors Find your

salvation on a singletrack or back road KORY SWANSON 24 | RiDE

IF I TOLD YOU THAT YOU could leave Fort Collins on a bike and make it to the Wyoming border on mostly dirt, would you believe me? Or that you could leave Loveland on a trail and ride north through the foothills staying mostly on dirt, and dirt singletrack at that, would you believe? Or that, without getting in a car, you could escape the hustle and bustle of Greeley and pedal on dirt, would you believe?

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

Skeptical? Well, I’d like to make a believer out of you.

I’d like to make you believe that dirt thrives in northern Colorado. It thrives to make you scream in delight, ooh and ahh at its beauty, and make you face your demons.

Wait. Hit pause for a second. Take a breath. A deep one. Has this guy lost his mind? Believe in dirt?

Yes, believe in dirt. Dirt trails. Dirt

Since the dawn of the bicycle, there has been dirt. Dirt that stretched for miles...It was on this same dirt that the first bicycles were ridden and a new faith began.

PHOTO BY AMY EHRENBERGER

They craved salvation from the norm, from the rigid rules of road riding and they found it in the woods and up in the mountains.

That salvation is alive and well, and the faith strong in our region. This dirt church is grand. Its many doors open seven days a week offering a network of trails that weave in and out of the foothills and into the mountains. No need to show up at a certain time for service. Simply check your tires, lube your chain and go.

roads. Two track. Fire roads. Gravel roads.

Whatever you want to call it, I want you to believe. Believe in your ability to hop on a bike, ditch the pavement and go, just go.

Head off to the Church of Dirt.

WHICH PATH DO YOU SEEK? The path of the mountain bike flourishes in northern Colorado. This pedal-powered machine’s development is largely credited to folks who sought salvation back in the ‘70s.

HOW DO YOU LIKE YOUR DIRT MESSAGE DELIVERED? Like the quiet minister who delivers a thoughtful message, some of us seek salvation in the form of fast and flowy singletracks. The meditative benefits of the flow speak to us in ways we can’t find in our everyday lives. If it’s this type of message you seek, try the Valley Trails at Lory State Park. Or, if you don’t mind driving to a trailhead, Soapstone Prairie, north of Fort Collins offers miles of flow.

Need a message delivered with a bit more passion? A mix of flow sprinkled with a few high notes that force some focus? Choose the Blue Sky Trail, its arteries peal off into the distance like church bells calling. Its Rim Rock Loop will make you focus. Its Indian Summer Loop will hone

your ability to handle bits of adversity.

And Devil’s Backbone? Its barren, red rocky terrain will force you to overcome what haunts you.

Crave some fervor? A message that forces you to work for it? You’ll find that door, too. At Horsetooth Mountain Open Space or Bobcat Ridge, you’ll be on your feet, climbing towards the heavens. At the top, breathless and tired, you’ll be rewarded, but beware. The fire and brimstone as you speed back down will cause your heart to race. Stray from its path and you may receive an unexpected awakening.

Still not convinced, but want to believe? The mountain bike message not the one you seek? That’s okay. Salvation remains within reach.

A PATH OF THE GRAVEL KIND Since the dawn of the bicycle, there has been dirt. Dirt that stretched for miles. Dirt that livestock beat under hoof. Dirt that a horse and wagon traveled on to take goods to town. It was on this same dirt that the first bicycles were ridden and a new faith began. Where people, under their own power could go where they wanted.

This new path of riding on dirt and gravel roads became something people grew to believe in. The congregation of

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

RiDE | 25

bicycle recreators blossomed. Riding, they discovered, allowed them to breathe in the fresh air and take in the countryside.

Then things changed. A new church sprang up. A new church based on a belief in pavement. Gravel roads were “improved” with layers of soil, crushed stone and tar, and they drew converts. Bikes adopted skinnier tires, and became faster and lighter. “Why ride on bumpy roads when there were smooth ones?” was the thought of the day.

But not everyone lost faith in dirt.

Gravel still spoke to many. In the face of ridicule, they still believed. They could ride into the promised land where smog belching automobiles were few. Where the sights and sounds brought peace and tranquility. Where the promise of adventure kept them coming back for more.

Winter Rally, as well as the Steamboat Ralleye, a ride in warmer months, that will take you from Fort Collins to Steamboat over a three-day span.

WHY GRAVEL? WHY BELIEVE? The gravel faith, or gravel grinding if you will, is worth exploring because it’s about heading out into the great outdoors under your own power on a simple machine. Go as long or as short as you like. Get away, even if just for a little while and clear your mind. You’ll find yourself settling into the rhythm of your own breathing and pedaling. Towns and daily life will slip away.

Cars and trucks will be mostly forgotten.

It’s just you and nature and a still small voice, saying “Believe. Believe. Believe.”

If you’re interested in the Church of Dirt, you can find a wealth of information on the internet, or talk with local bike shop staff, friends or colleagues. The answers are within reach. Some great resources to get you started are: www. yourgroupride.com, www.coloradogravel. com, www.overlandmtb.org and www. coteambob.com.

PHOTO COURTESY OF ODDITY CYCLES

FAITH IN GRAVEL There are many believers in northern Colorado. From Greeley to Loveland to Fort Collins, people believe in gravel. So whether you’re just considering the gravel faith or you’re one of the faithful wanderers, you need not go far to find salvation.

And, the offering needed for entry is pretty low. You only need a bike. Granted, true believers have tweaked and perfected what is now referred to as the gravel bike, but if you’re just getting started, fret not. A bike, a helmet, a map, water and some nourishment are really all you need.

Close to town, you’ll find routes that are perfect introductions. Some head east of Interstate 25 towards the plains, others north toward Wyoming, and the more challenging routes head west into the foothills and beyond. Should you desire a full baptism, the shorter routes close to home will lead you to other, more soul-searching places.

To assist you in the exploration of this new faith, some of the congregation have taken the time to write things down. You’ll find maps and route names like the Buford Blowout, the Cinnamon Roller and the Weld Waltz on www.coloradogravel.com.

Loosely organized events like the Winter Ralleye keep believers on their bikes from October through March, fighting off the winter darkness. There are more organized events like the Oskar Blues Old Man

26 | RiDE

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

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GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

RiDE | 27

THE

transformative

POWER OF BIKES AS CYCLISTS, WE’RE DREAMERS and big believers in the transformative power of bikes. Each of us has a personal story about how bikes saved our life or changed the way we experience the world.

In this moment of robust growth and uncertainty across the country and our region, it’s important to consider the role of bikes and active transportation and ask challenging questions about how we, as advocates, can best help shape a fairer, safer, healthier and more prosperous northern Colorado for generations to come.

We’ve had several years of stagnant growth in mode share—the percentage of the population who regularly ride bikes— and an alarming increase in single occupancy vehicle (SOV ) congestion, crashes and injury.

It’s hard to imagine the transformative power of bikes realized with a mode share of less than 10 percent. When people spend

28 | RiDE

most of their transportation time and dollars on SOVs, we are less likely to see biking normalized as transportation and prioritized in policy and budgets.

On every level, from our cities to national, traffic fatality rates are soaring by double digit percentages year after year.

Our failure, as advocates, planners, civic leaders and communities to slow this dramatic trend is a defining crisis of our era.

If a foreign army killed 40,000 Americans a year, we’d spend untold billions to stop them. Yet traffic violence has been creeping towards this benchmark so relentlessly for so long that we’ve developed what future generations will surely regard as a morally indefensible complacency.

As we advocate for more bike lanes, paths, school programs, and crackdowns on bad drivers, we also need to step back and look at the systemic challenges to safe, fair and healthy transportation in

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

our region. By focusing on bike lanes instead of on whole cities, we’re building better iron lungs, but what we really need is a cure for polio.

Here are some ideas for how we can think bigger and begin to change that:

1. CONNECT BIKES AND AFFORDABILITY Bike lanes are great. City council proclamations are great. But the present surge in home prices near job centers in northern Colorado has a real impact on mode share and bike safety. Bikes are only a viable transportation option if we support mixed-income neighborhoods that allow more of our workforce to live near their places of employment.

2. CONNECT BIKES TO SOCIAL JUSTICE

In the U.S., transportation is a disproportionate expense for families with low incomes. Safe, low-stress bike routes,

10 ways to promote cycling and build a bike-centric community Chris Johnson

sidewalks and useful public transportation are often scarce in under-resourced neighborhoods. Transportation is our lifeline to opportunity—education, employment, healthcare, recreation and civic engagement. When we make policies or demand changes for transportation safety, we must start in communities with the greatest challenges, and work collaboratively with these communities to hear their needs, and actively craft policies that promote inclusion and leadership diversity.

3. CONNECT ENVIRONMENTAL STEWARD-

SHIP TO URBANISM Coloradans are pretty green. We love our solar panels, efficient windows and recycle bins. But our sprawl; low density, long commutes, car-centric developments, school of choice, all devour resources and open land, discourage walking and biking, make transit costly and inefficient, fill

the air with emissions and force people to drive further to get to nature. Urbanism—building neighborhoods around more density, mixed-use/mixed-income development, shared open space and sustainable transportation—is much better for environmental stewardship than our current development norms.

4. CONNECT SAFETY WITH SYSTEMS

CHANGE, NOT CONSUMER GOODS If you ever need a good laugh, look up the Hövding bike airbag sometime. It’s a collar you wear that deploys an inflatable helmet in a crash. It’s as ridiculous as it sounds. It’s also $400 for a single deployment. Technology can transform lives and safety. Let’s demand more technology and investments that prevent crashes in the first place, not personal protections that treat safety like a consumer good rather than a right that everyone deserves.

5. CONNECT PEOPLE-FRIENDLY NEIGHBOR-

HOODS TO ECONOMIC VIBRANCY As much as we complain about parking, we don’t actually care about those asphalt slabs in front of our stores and restaurants.

We care about convenience and cost. Our current development models tend to hide the cost of parking. But every parking spot in a retail development is space not making money, space the developer paid for (and passes the cost on to consumers), and space that either sits empty or lets one single occupancy vehicle park rather than 15 bikes or a bus stop that can move dozens of people per hour. The more we maximize the convenience of sustainable transportation, the less parking and cars limit our economic vitality, especially as we continue to grow.

6. CONNECT URBANISM TO AGING IN PLACE We’re a few years away from a silver tsunami in northern Colorado, where lack of

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

RiDE | 29

Should we care about encouraging safer cycling? Of course. But when someone says that the primacy of automobiles in American life is an environmental, economic, social and public safety catastrophe, and therefore, mode shift should be a national priority, and the response is that “bike riders should really be licensed, too,” we’re not talking in good faith. None of us should humor that false equivalency anymore. Call it out. It’s killing us.

9. RETHINK “BIKE CULTURE”

affordable senior housing will reach crisis levels without big changes. Urbanism is a vital tool for enabling seniors to age in place, live well and remain independent longer without driving.

7. STOP EXPECTING THE CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM TO SOLVE PUBLIC SAFETY PROBLEMS When all you have is hammers, every problem looks like a nail. Our incarceration rate in the U.S. and our expensive faith in enforcement to solve complex problems have not resulted in the safety outcomes we need.

Better designed streets and neighborhoods, and confronting historic, cultural and geographic barriers to mobility need to play the lead role in public safety. Enforcement needs to be a thoughtfully applied last resort.

30 | RiDE

8. STOP LETTING THEM CHANGE THE SUBJECT When law-abiding bicyclists are confronted by anti-bike voices, it’s usually a matter of time before they invoke scofflaw cyclists. “Bikes need to stop at lights!” “Bikes need to stay off busy roads!”

It’s time we are honest about what’s going on there.

Let’s start with a thought experiment.

Take every bicycle off the road in the U.S. Car crashes will still kill nearly 40,000 people a year. Now, flip that; take cars off the road and leave them to bikes, pedestrians and mass transit. We’d save in the ballpark of 39,000+ lives per year. We’d also save untold dollars (traffic crashes in Fort Collins alone cause $129 million per year in economic drag).

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

Bike culture is an important part of northern Colorado. But ask some would-be riders and you’ll find that the dress code, acronyms and jargon, cliquey bike shops, and exotic and conspicuous safety gear is off-putting to people simply interested in living cheaper and healthier on two wheels. We all want safer streets; to get there, we need more people on bikes.

That means we need to be more consciously inclusive and accessible. In countries with robust double-digit bike mode share, bikes are a convenient tool for living a healthy life. Bike culture as a social organizing idea doesn’t exist. How does NoCo’s bike culture help and how does it hurt? How does the culture look different from the total picture of who rides and why? And why is it important?

10. DEMAND ACTION FROM LOCAL LEADERS Many civic leaders appreciate the need for these changes, and businesses are catching up. Increasingly they understand that mode shift and urbanization are critical to our region’s health. The more our leaders hear that we, the people, understand and support them in building a city that puts parks before parking, communities before commutes, that values neighborhoods where kids can safely play and seniors can age in place, the more courage they will have to stand with us, and support—with one inclusive voice—more bikes and safer streets in northern Colorado.

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FEAR NOT, CASUAL RIDERS All bicyclists are welcome here KIM SHARPE, WITH SYLVIA CRANMER ARE YOU A LYCRA-KIT-CLAD, speed-loving racer? How about a shredding mountain biker? Perhaps an any-weather, hard-core commuter or hip fixie rider? Or are you a fair-weather biker who values comfort, safety and convenience? If you resemble the latter, then you’re part of the interested, but concerned crowd or 60 percent of the bicycling population. And lucky for you, many NoCo bicycling organizations are working hard to make your two-wheeled adventures better.

The Bicycle Ambassador Program offers many classes to help people gain new skills and knowledge about rules of the road, like the Smart Cycling class. Families will learn a thing or two in Cycling with Children. BAP also helps adults learn to ride for the first time or get back on a bike if it’s been awhile since they enjoyed pedal-powered fun. Check out all the offerings at www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org.

The Safe Routes to School programs in Fort Collins and Loveland teach students bike basics, like “… signaling your movements and using great caution at intersections, particularly if coming off a sidewalk into a crosswalk, which often takes motorists by surprise,” says Nancy Nichols, City of Fort Collins Safe Routes to School coordinator.

NoCo communities are adding more features to streets and trails to build low-stress cycling networks. Things like protected bike lanes, traffic-stopping signals that prioritize bikers and walkers over cars, underpasses and bridges that provide safe ways to cross busy streets are designed to encourage the interested, but concerned to ride.

Is your bike ride-ready?

IT’S AS SIMPLE AS ABC

A is for air.

Inflate your tires within the range of pressure limits printed on the sidewall of your tire.

32 | RiDE

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

GREAT RIDES: SCENIC PAVED TRAILS FOR ALL

ESTES PARK

FORT COLLINS

GREELEY

LOVELAND

The four-mile trail that winds around Lake Estes provides an easy, but beautiful ride. Elk enjoy the trail, too, and often provide obstacles around which you have to maneuver making a ride around the water’s edge even more exciting.

Travel Fort Collins’ more than 35 miles of paved trails to enjoy wildlife sightings, beautiful gardens, and easy access to shopping and dining. Visit the City of Fort Collins website for up-to-date trail information at www.fcgov.com/bicycling.

Greeley is home to 25+-miles of trails, like the Poudre River Trail along which you’ll find the Poudre River Learning Center, dramatic 5060-foot cliffs carved by the river and the site of a Prisoner of War Camp used during World War II.

Almost 30 miles of scenic trail gently winds through Loveland, from Boyd Lake State Park to the Big Thompson River. You will enjoy cruising through wide-open meadows, downtown Loveland and along peaceful waterways.

Increase the safety of your rides by making sure your bike is mechanically sound. Learn how to tune up your bike at the Fort Collins Bike Co-op or Turn Around Bikes in Greeley, or seek out bike maintenance services at one of

B is for brakes.

Make sure your brake pads are not worn to less than 1/4 inch and not rubbing against the wheel or tire. You should be able to fit your thumb between the brake lever and handlebar when fully squeezed.

NoCo’s many bike shops (see map on p. 38).

Regardless of whether you’re a DIY wrencher or let someone else do the dirty work, perform an ABC Quick Check before every ride.

C is for chain.

Inspect it for rust and gunk. Clean and lube your chain on a regular basis (every seven to 10 days or 150 to 250 miles) and after every wet ride.

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

RiDE | 33

KNOW YOUR LIMIT Funkwerks 1900 E. Lincoln Ave., Unit B, 970-482-3865 www.funkwerks.com

BERTHOUD

Berthoud Brewing Company 450 S. 8th St., Ste. B, 970-670-0774 www.berthoudbrewing.com

Horse & Dragon Brewing Company 124 Racquette Dr., 970-631-8038 www.horseanddragonbrewing.com

City Star Brewing 321 Mountain Ave., 970-532-7827 www.citystarbrewing.com

FORT COLLINS

1933 Brewing Company 4025 South Mason St., Unit C, 970-377-4107 www.1933brewing.com Anheuser Busch 2351 Busch Dr., 970-221-0922 www.anheuser-busch.com Black Bottle Brewery 1611 S. College Ave., 970-493-2337 www.blackbottlebrewery.com CB & Potts 1415 W. Elizabeth St., 970-221-1139 www.cbpotts.com CooperSmiths Pub & Brewing 5 Old Town Square, 970-498-0483 www.coopersmithspub.com CSU Brewing at the Ramskeller Lory Student Center, 970-491-3903 Equinox Brewing Company 133 Remington St., 970-484-1368 www.equinoxbrewing.com Fort Collins Brewery & Tavern 1020 E. Lincoln Ave., 970-682-2260 www.fortcollinsbrewery.com

The Jessup Farm Barrel House 1921 Jessup Dr., 970-568-8345 www.jessupfarm.com/barrel-house McClellan’s Brewing Company 1035 S. Taft Hill Rd., 970-568-8473 www.mccleallansbrewingcompany.com New Belgium Brewery 500 Linden St., 970-221-0524 www.newbelgium.com Odell Brewing Company 800 E. Lincoln Ave., 970-498-9070 www.odellbrewing.com

Soul Squared Brewery 326 Smith St., 970-286-7769 www.soulsquaredbrewing.com Tap and Handle 307 S. College Ave., 970-484-1116 www.tapandhandle.com Taps 165 Boardwalk, 970-449-4462 www.tapsfc.com Three Four Beer Company 829 S. Shields St., 970-221-3434 www.threefourbeerco.com Wilbur’s Total Beverage 2201 S. College Ave., 970-226-8662 www.wilburstotalbeverage.com Zwei Bruder Brewing 4612 S. Mason St., #120, 970-223-2482 www.zweibruderbrewing.com

GREELEY

Pateros Creek Brewing Company 242 N. College Ave., 970-368-2739 www.pateroscreekbrewing.com

Brix Taphouse & Brewery 813 8th St., 970-371-8029 www.brixtaphouseandbrewery.com

Prost Brewing Company 321 Old Firehouse Alley, 303-729-1175 www.prostbrewing.com

Broken Plow Brewery 4731 W. 10th St., 970-301-4575 www.brokenplowbrewery.com

Rally King Brewing 1624 S. Lemay Ave. #4, 970-568-8936 www.rallykingbrewing.com

Crabtree Brewing 2961 29th St., 970-356-0516 www.crabtreebrewing.com

Road 34 1213 W. Elizabeth St., 970-491-9934 www.road34.com

Weldworks Brewing 508 8th Ave., 970-460-6345 www.weldworksbrewing.com

Snowbank Brewing 225 S. Lemay Ave., Ste. 1, 970-999-5658 www.snowbankbrewing.com

Wiley Roots Brewing Company 625 3rd St., 970-515-7315 www.wileyrootsbrewing.com

LISTINGS IN RED CAN BE FOUND ON THE MAP. 34 | RiDE

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

LOVELAND

Big Beaver Brewing 2707 Eisenhower Blvd. Unit 9 www.bigbeaverbrew.com Big Thompson Brewery 114 E. 15th St., 970-619-8138 www.lovelandbrewery.com Buckhorn Brewers 4229 W. Eisenhower Blvd., 970-980-8688 www.buckhornbrewers.com

Crow Hop Brewing Co. 217 E. 3rd St., 970-633-0643 www.crowhopbrewing.com

Rock Bottom Brewery 6025 Sky Pond Dr., 970-622-2077 www.rockbottom.com

Grimm Brothers Brewhouse 623 N. Denver Ave., 970-624-6045 www.grimmbrewhouse.com

Verboten Brewing 125 E. 5th St., 970-775-7371 www.verbotenbrewing.com

Loveland Ale Works 118 W. 4th St., 970-619-8726 www.lovelandaleworks.com

WINDSOR

High Hops Brewery 17th St. & Hwy 392, 970-686-7771 www.highhopsbrewery.com

BREWERIES FEATURED ARE HIGHLIGHTED AS RED IN THE LISTINGS

JEF

LAPORTE MOUNTAIN OAK

FER

SO

N

LINCOLN RIV

CSU Campus PROSPECT

SID

POUDRE TRAIL

E

LEMAY

ELIZABETH

ER

COLLEGE (287)

MULBERRY

DRAKE

MASON TRAIL

HORSETOOTH

HARMONY

LEMAY

SHIELDS

TAFT

SPRING CREEK TRAIL

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

RiDE | 35

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36 | RiDE

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

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GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

RiDE | 37

BERTHOUD

1. Berthoud Bicycle www.berthoudbicycle.com 443 Mountain Ave., 970-532-2290

FORT COLLINS

2. Big Shot Bikes www.bigshotbikes.com 106 N. Link Lane, 970-775-1233 3. Black Sheep Bikes www.blacksheepbikes.com 204 N. Link Lane, 970-218-5952 4. Boo Bicycles www.boobicycles.com 1750 Laporte Ave., 970-444-2228 5. Brave New Wheel www.bravenewwheel.com 105 E. Myrtle St., 970-416-0417 6. Carver Surf Racks/287 Bikes www.carverracks.com, 808-389-4372 7. Drake Cyclery www.drakecyclery.com 2100 W. Drake Rd., Ste. 4, 970-631-8326 8. FC Bike Co-op www.fcbikecoop.org 1501 N. College Ave., 970-484-3804 9. Fort Collins Bicycle Co. 1824 Laporte Ave., 970-682-2920 10. Gearage www.gearageoutdoorsports.com 119 E. Mountain Ave., 970-416-6803

15. Niner Bikes www.ninerbikes.com 2330 E. Prospect Rd., 877-646-3792

24. Rocky Mountain Recumbents www.rockymountainincumbent.com 1900 Sharp Point Dr., 970-221-4838

16. Oddity Cycles www.odditycycles.com 204 N. Link Lane, #5, 816-812-8598

25. Swobo Bicycles and Apparel www.swobo.com, 970-219-3166

17. Peleton Cycles www.peleton-cycles.com 2101 S. College Ave., 970-484-1800 3027 E. Harmony Rd., 970-449-5595 18. Performance Bicycle www.performancebike.com 2407 S. College Ave., 970-419-2770 19. Phoenix Cyclery www.phoenixcyclery.com 1532 E. Mulberry St., Ste. D 970-493-4517 20. Provelo www.provelobikes.com 4612 S. Mason St., 970-204-9935 21. Recycled Cycles www.recycled-cycles.com 4031 S. Mason St., 970-223-1969 CSU Lory Student Center 970-491-9555 22. Richard’s Bike Shop 4319 Silverview Ct., 970-420-2039 23. Road 34 www.road34.com 1228 W. Elizabeth St., 970-689-3556

26. Trailcraft Cycles www.trailcraftcycles.com 970-310-3714 27. YendraBuilt www.yendrabuilt.com 1304 Duff Dr. #11, 970-430-6505 28. YiPsan Bicycles www.YiPsanbicycles.com 970-672-0168

GREELEY

29. Bike Peddler Cycling & Fitness www.bikepeddler.biz 5240 W. 9th St. Dr., #200 970-356-3663 www.bikepeddler.biz 30. George’s Repair Shop 825 W. 7th St., 970-352-9492 31. Ride www.ridegreeley.com 3830 W. 10th St.,Unit C4 970-356-7617

14. New World Sports, LLC 119 E. Mountain Ave. www.newworldsportsllc.com 970-416-6803

38 | RiDE

MOUNTAIN AVE.

35

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

35. Breakaway Cycles www.breakaway-cycles.com 2237 W. Eisenhower Blvd.

970-663-1726 36. Days Roll By www.facebook.com/DaysRollBy 1528 N. Lincoln Ave., 970-481-4339 37. Lawson Cycles www.lawsoncycles.com 2707 W. Eisenhower Blvd. #4 970-368-5529 38. Lee’s Cyclery www.leescyclery.com 4880 Thompson Pkwy., 970-667-8735

WINDSOR

41. Spokes www.spokesinc.com 427 Main St., 970-686-9275

WINDSOR

I-25 HWY 257

FIRST STREET

13. Moonmen Bikes www.moonmenbikes.com 1304 Duff Dr., #12, 970-556-4074

34. The Bicycle Shop 2237 W Eisenhower Blvd.

970-663-1726

40. Rocky Mountain Cyclery www.facebook.com/ RockyMountainCyclery 504 N. Garfield Ave., 970-669-2361

32. Turnaround Bikes www.turnaroundbikes.com 134 11th Ave., 970-716-0680

BERTHOUD

33. The Bearing 2702 W. Eisenhower Blvd., Unit 4, 970-420-5447

39. Loveland Cycle ‘n Fitness www.lovelandcycle.com 524 Cleveland Ave., 970-667-1943

11. Lawson Cycles www.lawsoncycles.com 120 W. Stuart St., 970-368-5529 12. Lee’s Cyclery www.leescyclery.com 202 W. Laurel St., 970-482-6006 931 E. Harmony Rd., 970-226-6006

LOVELAND

HWY 392 (MAIN STREET) 5TH STREET

SHOPPING SPREE

BIKE SHOPS AND MAKERS

41

COLLEGE

8

9 4

LAPORTE

VINE

14 10 MULBERRY 12 ELIZABETH

SHIELDS HORSETOOTH

12

HARMONY

HWY 287

LOVELAND

17

GREELEY

I-25

32

37 34 33

LAKE LOVELAND

36 BUS 34

40 39

38

59TH AVE

29

BUS HWY 85

20

28

30

BUS 34 43RD AVE

22

LEMAY

21

COLLEGE

COLLINS 26

15

DRAKE

FORT 25

PROSPECT

24 18

7

NO SHOP ADDRESS AVAILABLE

I-25

5

17 11

TAFT

OVERLAND

23

COLORADO 21 STATE UNIVERSITY

6 27 13 3 16 19 2

LEMAY

VINE

31

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MAKERS, SELLERS, WRENCHERS ........ 44 RECREATIONAL RIDERS ....................... 45 TOURS ................................................ 46 RACERS & TRAINERS ........................... 46 ADVOCATES & VOLUNTEERS ............... 48

BIG BIKE DIRECTORY THE

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GET YOUR GEAR HERE

MAKERS, SELLERS, WRENCHERS

BERTHOUD

Berthoud Bicycle www.berthoud bicycle.com 443 Mountain Ave., 970-532-2290

FORT COLLINS

Akinz www.akinz.com 15 Old Town Sqr., Ste. 132, 970-682-1750 Big Shot Bikes www.bigshot bikes.com 106 N. Link Lane, 970-775-1233

COMMUNITY PROFILE

Black Sheep Bikes www.blacksheepbikes.com 204 N. Link Lane, 970-218-5952

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Boo Bicycles www.boobicycles.com 1750 Laporte Ave., 970-444-2228 Brave New Wheel www.bravenewwheel.com 105 E. Myrtle St., 970-416-0417 Cantitoe Road www.cantitoeroad.com 134 W. Harvard St., Ste. 5, 800-4222104, 970-472-0125 Carver Surf Racks/287 Bikes www.carverracks.com 808-389-4372 Convertible Backpacks

by Richard Jones www.pannierbackpacks.com 970-222-4190 CycleTote Bicycle Trailers www.cycletote.com 517 N. Link Lane Unit B, 800-747-2407

Tessa Greegor City of Fort Collins FC Bikes program manager When your first memory of a bike includes your sister trying to hop a curb and crashing, smashing her teeth, it makes sense that you grow up and choose a career that includes improving people’s bicycling experiences. Greegor says her work as the City of Fort Collins FC Bikes program manager “brings something new and interesting every day…from teaching bike safety, to planning new bikeway projects to identifying new bike parking locations.” She believes bicycles are an integral part of creating sustainable and livable communities, so she does her part to ride as often as possible. “Bicycling is how I travel around. I thrive on Fort Collins’ trails and low-stress bike network. I like commuting, exploring neighborhoods, touring, mountain biking and racing triathlons.” Greegor also enjoys the sense of freedom bikes provide and the way they allow you to experience a place and its people much differently than when you drive a car. “I like that bikes require some effort, and that when I ride, I’m making a difference while having fun and being healthy. It’s hard to picture my life without bikes.”

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

Drake Cyclery www.drakecyclery.com 2100 W. Drake Rd., Ste. 4 970-631-8326 FC Bike Co-op www.fcbikecoop.org 1501 N. College Ave., 970-484-3804 Fort Collins Bicycle Co. 1824 Laporte Ave., 970-682-2920 Gearage www.gearageoutdoorsports.com 119 E. Mountain Ave., 970-416-6803 Lawson Cycles www.lawsoncycles.com 120 W. Stuart St. 970-368-5529 Lee’s Cyclery www.leescyclery.com 202 W. Laurel St. 970-482-6006 931 E. Harmony Rd., 970-226-6006

Moonmen Bikes www.moonmenbikes.com 1304 Duff Dr., #12, 970-556-4074 New World Sports, LLC 119 E. Mountain Ave. www.newworldsportsllc.com, 970-416-6803 Niner Bikes www.ninerbikes.com 2330 E. Prospect Rd., Ste. 4, 877-646-3792 Oddity Cycles www.odditycycles.com 204 N. Link Lane, #5, 816-812-8598 On the Wheel www.on-the-wheel.com 106 N. Link Lane Parsley Art Ankle Bands www.parsleyartstudio.com

Rocky Mountain Recumbents www.rockymountainincumbent.com 1900 Sharp Point Dr., 970-221-4838 Swobo Bicycles and Apparel www.swobo.com 970-219-3166 Trailcraft Cycles www.trailcraftcycles.com, 970-310-3714 YendraBuilt www.yendrabuilt.com 1304 Duff Dr. #11, 970-430-6505

GREELEY

Performance Bicycle www.performancebike.com 2407 S. College Ave., 970-419-2770

George’s Repair Shop 825 W. 7th St., 970-352-9492

Provelo www.provelo bikes.com 4612 S. Mason St., 970-204-9935 Recycled Cycles www.recycled-cycles.com 4031 S. Mason St., 970-223-1969 CSU Lory Student Center 970-491-9555

Lee’s Cyclery www.leescyclery.com 4880 Thompson Pkwy., 970-667-8735 Loveland Cycle ‘n Fitness www.lovelandcycle.com 524 Cleveland Ave., 970-667-1943 PUSH Industries, Inc. www.pushindustries.com 1520 Taurus Ct., 970-278-1110 Rocky Mountain Cyclery www.facebook.com/RockyMountainCyclery 504 N. Garfield Ave., 970-669-2361

YiPsan Bicycles www.YiPsanbicycles.com 970-672-0168

Peleton Cycles www.peletoncycles.com 2101 S. College Ave., 970-484-1800 3027 E. Harmony Rd., 970-449-5595

Phoenix Cyclery www.phoenix cyclery.com 1532 E. Mulberry St., Ste. D 970-493-4517

Lawson Cycles www.lawsoncycles.com 2707 W. Eisenhower Blvd. #4, 970-368-5529

Road 34 www.road34.com 1228 W. Elizabeth St., 970-689-3556

WINDSOR

Spokes www.spokesinc.com 427 Main St., 970-686-9275

Bike Peddler Cycling & Fitness www.bikepeddler.biz 5240 W. 9th St. Dr., #200 970-356-3663, www.bikepeddler.biz

FIND YOUR BIKER GANG

RIDERS, RACERS & TRAINERS, ADVOCATES & VOLUNTEERS

Ride www.ridegreeley.com 3830 W. 10th St.,Unit C4, 970-356-7617 Turnaround Bikes www.turnaroundbikes.com 134 11th Ave., 970-716-0680

RECREATIONAL RIDERS

Belle Starrs A women’s bicycle “gang.” No spandex or fancy equipment needed, just a passion for two wheels. www.facebook.com/ thebellestarrs Fort Collins Cycling Club Brings together recreational road cyclists of all ability levels. www.fccycleclub. org, www.facebook.com/groups/ fccyclingclub/

LOVELAND

The Bearing 2702 W. Eisenhower Blvd., Unit 4 970-420-5447

Fort Follies This group empowers women of all abilities and disciplines to ride for recreation or race competitively. www.fortfollies.com

The Bicycle Shop 2237 W Eisenhower Blvd.

970-663-1726

Richard’s Bike Shop 4319 Silverview Ct., 970-420-2039

Breakaway Cycles www.breakaway-cycles.com 2237 W. Eisenhower Blvd.

970-663-1726

Ridekick International www.ridekick.com PO Box 1486, 877-974-4440

Days Roll By www.facebook.com/DaysRollBy 1528 N. Lincoln Ave., 970-481-4339

Overland Mountain Bike Club Overland members build and maintain trails, teach people how to ride and patrol trails assisting all user groups in northern Colorado and southern Wyoming. www.overlandmtb.org

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PEDAL Club (People’s Efforts to Deemphasize Autos in Loveland) The group’s diverse members ride together and teach others how to ride safely. www.pedalclub.org Team B.O.B. (a.k.a, Babes on Bikes) For women mountain bikers of all ages and abilities who want to ride, maintain trails, educate and participate in cyclingrelated community events. www.coteambob.com

RACERS & TRAINERS

9Seventy Racing A multisport racing team (cycling, running, triathlon and snow sports). All skill levels welcome. www.9seventyracing.com

COMMUNITY PROFILE

Ciclismo Youth Foundation (CYF) CYF aims to positively support the social and emotional development of children through the sport of cycling. www.ciclismoyouthfoundation.org

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CycleBar Premium indoor cycling training.

Free intro session. www.fortcolins.cyclebar.com Epic BMX Supports bicycle motocross (BMX) racing at the American Bicycle Association-sanctioned (ABA) track in south Fort Collins. www.epicbmxfc.com Gemini Training Systems Offers cycling training to athletes to help them reach their competition goals.

970-301-8510 www.geminitrainingsystems.com Northern Colorado Cycling Events (NCCE) NCCE members manage and promote competitive cycling events in northern Colorado. www.YourGroupRide.com

Mitch Majeski Summitview Church pastor “Cycling is a creative form of transportation. It adds value. As a person dedicated to redemption, that intrigues me,” says Mitch Majeski, Summitview Church pastor. Majeski rides his bike to commute and for recreation, but his favorite ride is a slow ride when he’s on a date night with his wife. Recently, his church and FC Bikes joined forces to turn a piece of the church’s property into a bicycle skills hub. It’s scheduled to open to the public this summer. Majeski is especially jazzed about the partnership that’s making the new education space a reality, because “a vibrant cycling culture brings good as it reduces traffic congestion, promotes health and reduces risk,” he says. “It will be a great place to gather and to learn. Together we’re adding real value to our community. It is a beautiful thing.”

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

Source Endurance Individualized training to help every client accomplish their athletic, performance and competitive goals.

877-729-0911, www.source-e.net

TOURS

At Your Pace Freestyle Cycling Adventures For custom or self-guided bike or multi-sport tours that span one or multiple days. 970-776-0181 www.atyourpacebiking.com Beer & Bike Tours A collection of wonderful guides and support crew will connect you to a fun and safe adventure. 970-201-1085 www.beerandbiketours.com ExperiencePlus!

Guided cycling tours in more than 20 countries. 800-685-4565 www.experienceplus.com

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Front Range Ride Guides Guided mountain bike tours of the Colorado Front Range and beyond.

720-470-1627 www.frontrangerideguides.com

ADVOCATES & VOLUNTEERS

Bicycle Advisory Committee A subcommittee of the City of Fort Collins Transportation Board that reviews, recommends and works proactively to identify potential capital improvements, bicycle policies, priorities and future goals.

970-221-6515, www.fcgov.com/bac

COMMUNITY PROFILE

FC Bikes Bicycle Ambassador Program The education division of the City of Fort Collins FC Bikes, the Bicycle Ambassador Program trains people to become ambassadors of safe cycling. www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org

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Bicycle and Pedestrian Education Coalition A group of movers and shakers in NoCo’s bicycling community who work together to meet the biking and walking needs of our community.

970-221-6987, www. bicycleambassadorprogram.org/bpec Bike Fort Collins The region’s oldest and largest bicycling advocacy group, BFC unites NoCo in building a world-class community, committed to cycling for transportation, recreation and social good. www.bikefortcollins.org Diamond Peaks Mountain Bike Patrol Certified Mountain Bike Patrollers assist others on the trails in medical and or mechanical emergencies; educate trail users of proper etiquette; and work side by side, ride by ride, with others on advocacy and trail work. www.overlandmtb.org

FC Bikes The City of Fort Collins’ bicycle program. Through advocacy, programming, planning and infrastructure, the FC Bikes program seeks to increase bicycling while creating and maintaining a bicycle-friendly community. www.fcgov.com/bicycling Fort Collins Bike Share Borrow a bike at one of several automated self-checkout stations around town. Visit the Library at the Hub/ Downtown Transit Center (250 N. Mason St.) for route planning assistance, visitor information, helmets, more! www.bikefortcollins.org/what-we-do/ bike-share, 970-221-6620 http://bike.zagster.com/fortcollins/ 202-999-3924

Megan Packard Turnaround Bikes director Megan Packard thinks Bikes are simple. Simple fun. Simple transportation. And for her, family bike rides to special destinations are simply the best.

“We like to take off on the Poudre Trail and go to parks or just to a friend’s house.” As the director of the nonprofit Turnaround Bikes in Greeley, Packard helps other families and individuals get bikes of their own. “We get donated bikes from people who aren’t using them anymore, fix them up if they need it, and get them to people who need transportation. We also run a retail bike shop and weekly workshops where people can learn to repair bikes. At Turnaround Bikes we’re really trying to help solve some transportation issues while at the same time providing some tangible skills so people can be self-sufficient. Cycling for recreation or transportation is an important part of that.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF TURNAROUND BIKES

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

your adv en t u re Adven t ure adventure

your

YOUR

BEGINS Here HERE Begins

Begins Here

With the widest selection of wine, beer and spirits in Northern Colorado, let WILBUR’S TOTAL BEVERAGE welcome you to Fort Collins.

Whether you’re here for the weekend, the season or with us for a while, let Wilbur’s Total Beverage welcome you to Fort Collins.

With the widest selection of wine, beer and spirits in Northern Colorado and a customer-first approach, make Wilbur’s your home now that you’re here!

2201 S. College • 970-226-8662 WilbursTotalBeverage.com

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GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

Fort Collins Bicycle Co-op A nonprofit organization dedicated to “Building Community Through Bicycling in Northern Colorado.”

Charitable programs, environmental stewardship and volunteer engagement.

970-484-3804, www.fcbikecoop.org Fort Collins Mountain Bike Advocacy Group An advocacy group to promote and improve softsurface, multiuse trails in NoCo. 970443-0728 slacey24@ gmail.com

COMMUNITY PROFILE

Fort Collins Velo Park Association A nonprofit organization working to bring a world-class community cycling venue to Fort Collins. www.fcvelo.org

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Rob Martin Local Bike Enthusiast Rob Martin doesn’t just talk the active transportation talk, he pedals it! Ever since he moved to Fort Collins in 1992, he’s used a bike to get around all year long. “If you can ski in it, you can bike in it,” says Martin, who doesn’t own a car. Bikes have been his main form of transportation, recreation, daily workouts and sanity for decades. He’s used a bike to travel across the country, run a business, get into the backcountry and promote conservation. “I like getting around with my energy and not needing to buy gas. We are putting pipelines under rivers and invading countries for their oil; I don’t want to contribute to that if I can help it—and I can by riding a bike,” Martin says. “Whether I’m having a good day or a bad day, when I get on a bike it usually gets better.”

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

Greeley Bikes The City of Greeley’s initiative to encourage and educate more people to travel by bike. www.greeleybikes.com NoCo Bike & Ped Collaborative Advances connectivity of non-motorized networks for recreation, transportation and economic development through coordination, education and promotion. www.nfrmpo.org/ResourcesDocuments/ nocobikeped.aspx Safe Routes to School (SRTS) The Fort Collins and Loveland SRTS programs bring bike-ped safety instruction to Poudre School District and Thompson School District K-12 students. www.fcgov.com/saferoutes, www.cityofloveland.org

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Shifting shots: A PHOTO GALLERY OF TWO-WHEELED FUN

Greeley’s Billie Martinez Neighborhood “Better Together” Celebration

Greeley’s Blarney Bike Rodeo

Greeley’s Blarney Bike Rodeo PHOTO BY ERIC BRACKE

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GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

People’s Efforts to De-emphasize Automobiles in Loveland (PEDAL) Club

Greeley Bike-in Movie and Helmet Fitting

PHOTOS BY ERIC BRACKE

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Fort Follies Cycling Team PHOTOS COURTESY FORT FOLLIES

Fort Collins Bike Co-op

Fort Collins Bike Co-op

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PHOTOS COURTESY FORT COLLINS BIKE CO-OP

PHOTOS COURTESY CITY OF FORT COLLINS

City of Fort Collins Bike to Work Days - Summer & Winter

Fort Collins Safe Routes to School

City of Fort Collins Open Streets Events

Fort Collins Cycling Club PHOTO COURTESY FORT COLLINS CYCLING CLUB

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Overland Mountain Bike Club

PHOTO COURTESY OVERLAND MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUB

PHOTO COURTESY GEORGIA GOULD

Fortified Collaborations 3 Forks Progressive Farm Dinner

Fortified Collaborations 3 Forks Progressive Farm Dinner PHOTOS BY SONJA K. PHOTOGRAPHY

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THE 2017

BIKE CALENDAR

MEETINGS

Bicycle Advisory Committee The BAC meets the fourth Monday of each month to provide recommendations to the City of Fort Collins Transportation Board regarding bicycle policies, and prioritize bike plan recommendations. Community Room, 215 N. Mason St., FC. 6-8pm.

970-416-2471, www.fcgov.com/bac.

Fort Collins Cycling Club FCCC, a road cycling club, meets the fourth Thursday, October through April. CB Potts Collindale, 1441 E. Horsetooth Rd., FC. 6:30pm. www.fccycleclub.org, www.facebook. com/groups/fccyclingclub/.

Overland Mountain Bike Club OMBC meets the first Monday of each month, March-October. Visitors and potential members are invited to attend. Locations vary. 6:30pm. www.overlandmtb.org.

EVENTS

MONTHLY NoCo Bike Show New in town, new to cycling or just wondering how to get involved? Attend

this live-audience talk show for local bike news and updates. Check website for dates, times, locations. www. bikefortcollins.org.

MARCH THROUGH MAY Bike Spring Spring into biking with special events and classes. View a complete schedule at www.fcgov.com/bikespring.

MAY THROUGH SEPTEMBER National Bike Challenge Log miles biked, form a workplace team, or compete for prizes locally and nationally. www.nationalbikechallenge.org.

APRIL THROUGH OCTOBER Trail Work Days Get dirty with Overland Mountain Bike Club members as they build and maintain trails throughout northern Colorado.

Check the website for days, times and locations. www.overlandmtb.org.

JUNE Bike Month in Loveland Cyclists of all ages and abilities can pedal through June with fun activities all month. View a complete schedule at www.cityofloveland.org.

www.thecupboard.com

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GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

JUNE THROUGH AUGUST Bike Summer Enjoy Colorado’s summer by bike. June is Bike Month. Ride on Bike to Work Day. View a complete event schedule at www.fcgov.com/bikesummer.

SEPTEMBER THROUGH NOVEMBER Bike Autumn Autumn is better by bike. View a complete schedule at www.fcgov.com/ bikeautumn.

DECEMBER THROUGH FEBRUARY 2018 Bike Winter Features special events and classes to help build your confidence on a bike. Celebrate Fort Collins’ bicycling culture, and keep riding all year long! View a complete schedule at www.fcgov.com/bikewinter.

MARCH 26 eBike Information Clinic Got questions about electric bikes? Get answers! Lee’s Cyclery, 931 E. Harmony Rd., FC. 3pm. 970-226-6006 www.leescyclery.com.

MAY 10 Bike to School Day Celebrate National Bike Month by riding to school. Check with your school for special local activities. www.walkbiketoschool.org.

MAY 13 (TENTATIVE) Poudre Trail-Athlon Compete in self-paced events like a bike ride, fun run and chalk art contest.

Poudre River Learning Center, 83rd Ave. & F St., GR. 9am-12noon. www.greeleybikes.com.

MAY 21 McKee Classic Bike Tour This pedal-at-your-own pace community tour offers four scenic routes (10, 30, 37 and 62 miles) and family fun. McKee Medical Center, 2000 N. Boise Ave., LV. www.mckeefoundationevents.com.

MAY 21 Tour de Coop A 6- to 8-mile bike ride from coop to coop around Fort Collins. Learn about chickens from beak to butt from experienced backyard chicken owners. $25/adult; $15/child. Check website for locations. 8:30am-1:30pm. 970-310-5791, www.sustainablelivingassociation.org.

COMMUNITY PROFILE

JUNE 4 Open Streets Come play in the street! Explore a section of Fort Collins, visit local businesses, and bike, walk, jog, play and meet your neighbors in a car-free environment. 10am-3pm. www.fcbikes.com/openstreets.

JUNE 10 (TENTATIVE) Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day This Overland Mountain Bike Club includes guided rides with safety and trail etiquette instruction, a post-ride lunch and swag for kids. Free. Check website for details. www.overlandmtb.org.

JUNE 28 Bike to Work Day Ride your bike to work and fuel up at free breakfast stations located all around the region. www.fcgov.com/ bikesummer, www.greeleybikes.com, www.cityofloveland.org/biketowork.

JUNE 19 Bikes and Burritos Learn how to use your bike for everyday transportation while enjoying burritos!

Registration required. Lee’s Cyclery, 931 E. Harmony Rd., FC. 7:30-9:30pm. www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org.

JULY (DAY TBA) Party for the Poudre on the Plaza A FUNdraiser for the Poudre River Trail.

8th Street Plaza, GR. www.poudretrail.org.

JULY 21-23 Tooth or Consequences Mountain Bike Festival A three-day mountain bike extravaganza featuring the 40 in the Fort Endurance MTB Race. Multiple locations. www.overlandmtb.org.

Stacy Sebeczek Fort Collins Bike Share director Whether remembering the exhilarating terror of her first real ride sans training wheels or enjoying mountain biking, which catapulted her into the world of racing and exploring, Stacy Sebeczek loves riding. And she wants others to love it, too, which is partly why, as her 3-year-old daughter says, “Mamma helps people get on bikes.” As director of the Fort Collins Bike Share (formerly the Bike Library) and as an employee of Bike Fort Collins, Sebeczek says, “I work with local sponsors, the City of Fort Collins’ FC Bikes and Zagster to engage our community, and enhance the usability and relevance of our shared bike service.” But don’t think she takes her role as a bicycling expert too seriously.

She says she views cycling through a playful lens. “Cultivating joy, rather than forcing an agenda, has enabled me to naturally develop expertise in certain areas of bicycling. In addition, my love for and knowledge of cycling has been shaped by some amazing human beings, who have certainly provided an inspired foundation from which to grow.”

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AUGUST 4 Greeley Neighborhood Nights Bike Rodeo A fun, free, family-friendly event where you can learn bike skills and get your helmet checked for proper fit. Location and time TBD. www.greeleybikes.com.

COMMUNITY PROFILE

AUGUST 12 (TENTATIVE) Wanda’s Ride The 5th annual fundraiser organized by the Fort Collins Cycling Club (FCCC) for Wanda Roche, a FCCC member who is paralyzed from the chest down following a cycling accident. Proceeds assist in enhancing her mobility and independence. $60/Individuals; $100/ Families. www.fccycleclub.org.

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AUGUST 16 Skills Hub Grand Opening Celebrate the opening of the Walk and Wheel Skills Hub, a training course for people of all ages and abilities.

Enjoy the festivities and try out the course on foot and/or on bike. Free.

1600 W. Drake Rd., FC. 4-7pm. www.fcgov.com/fcbikes.

AUGUST 19 Tour de Farms Join Bike Fort Collins on a leisurely 15-mile tour of farms, gardens and greenhouses. Check website for more info, including locations and ticket prices. 10am-4pm. www.fortifiedcollaborations.com/tickets/.

Eric Bracke City of Greeley traffic engineer Who knew how the gift of a red Western Flyer bike when he was 5 years old would impact Eric Bracke’s life? “My Dad was holding on to the seat and I was pedaling. I was having such a good time, but then I realized he had let go and that I was riding on my own. I panicked and crashed into a bush. He ran up, brushed me off, encouraged me and set me off riding again. I never looked backed.” Bracke says as a lifelong cyclist, he understands the issues between bikes and automobiles on a first-hand basis. And as a professional traffic engineer, he understands traffic flow, traffic conflicts, flow theory, and the interrelationships between all modes of travel. Both perspectives make him one of the most successful bike advocates in northern Colorado. Bracke feels that northern Colorado has done much to make biking safe and easy for almost anywhere you want to go. He says, “Bikes are expected on the roadway and therefore drivers aren’t surprised to see you. NoCo’s trail system is wonderful, too, and just a great place to spend time. And bicycles are accommodated at most places of business, like local breweries. Beer is always good.”

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

AUGUST 20 3 Forks Progressive Farm Dinner It’s about bikes, beer, food and farms.

Ages 21+. $75. Odell Brewing, 800 E. Lincoln Ave., FC. 4:30pm. www.fortifiedcollaborations.com/tickets/.

SEPTEMBER (DATE TBD) Tour de Poudre Ride as a team or as an individual along the River Trail to support forestry and tree research. www.coloradotrees.org.

SEPTEMBER 2 New Belgium Brewery’s Tour de Fat Join 25,000+ fellow pedalers in costume for this annual parade through Fort Collins. Civic Center Park, 225 Laporte Ave., FC. www.newbelgium.com/ events/tour-de-fat.

Join us

for a night

on the

farm!

Six themed, community dinners featuring local chefs, breweries and farms collaborating to support non-profits.

Dates and tickets at fortifiedcollaborations.com PHOTO BY RICHARD HARO

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SEPTEMBER 17 Open Streets Come play in the street! Explore a section of Fort Collins, visit local businesses, and bike, walk, jog, play and meet your neighbors in a car-free environment.

10am-3pm. www.fcbikes.com/openstreets.

OCTOBER (DATE TBD) Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day This Overland Mountain Bike Club includes guided rides with safety and trail etiquette instruction, a post-ride lunch and swag for kids. Free. Check website for details. www.overlandmtb.org.

COMMUNITY PROFILE

DECEMBER 13 Winter Bike to Work Day Warm up with a free breakfast when you ride your bike to work in Fort Collins. www.fcgov.com/bikewinter.

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RIDES

MONDAYS, APRIL THROUGH SEPTEMBER Community Road Ride 15-25 mile, no-drop, beginner friendly road rides. Lee’s Cyclery, 202 W. Laurel St., FC. 5:30pm. 970-482-6006 www.leescyclery.com.

TUESDAYS, APRIL THROUGH OCTOBER Fort Collins Cycling Club Tuesday Ride Casual rides and post-pedaling socializing. Ryan’s Sports Grill, 925 E. Harmony Rd., FC. 5:30pm or 6pm. www.fccycleclub.org, www.facebook. com/groups/fccyclingclub/.

Mechelle Martz-Mayfie Thompson School District Safe Routes to School coordinator Mechelle Martz-Mayfie can’t imagine a childhood without a bike. For her, it meant freedom and escape, something every kid needs. Perhaps that’s why she humbly, but doggedly works to make both biking and walking safe transportation options for students and their families in Loveland. “I honestly wouldn’t consider myself an expert in bicycling,” she says. “I work in the bicycle and pedestrian arena because I think it’s important for people to have different modes of transportation. More specifically, people with lower incomes tend to rely more on bicycles and walking and it is important those modes of transportation are safe.” While Martz-Mayfie was an avid bike rider as a kid and through her college years, she admits her adult life doesn’t find her riding as much as she’d like. But when she does get out on two wheels, she enjoys riding downtown to take in some art or riding on one of the city’s trails to take in nature. And that’s what it all comes down to for Martz-Mayfie: enjoying Colorado’s beauty and taking advantage of all the opportunities that impact the health and wellness of its communities by making biking a priority.

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

WEDNESDAYS Overland Social Rides March-October, weather and trail conditions permitting, enjoy a fun ride for all ability levels. Locations and times vary. www.overlandmtb.org.

THURSDAYS, APRIL THROUGH SEPTEMBER Fort Collins Cycling Club Thursday Ride A fast-paced ride and after-ride get together. Ride start locations vary.

5:30-6pm. www.fccycleclub.org, www. facebook.com/groups/fccyclingclub/.

SATURDAY OR SUNDAYS Fort Collins Cycling Club Weekend Ride Rides of longer durations for experienced cyclists. (Plus, beginning-level group rides on trails the first Sunday of each month.) www.fccycleclub.org, www. facebook.com/groups/fccyclingclub/.

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MAY 8 Family Bike Ride A casual 3- to 5-mile ride for all ages and abilities. Helmets. Free. Westmore Park, 39th Ave., GR. 6:30pm. www.GreeleyBikes.com.

JULY 11 Family Bike Ride A casual 3- to 5-mile ride for all ages and abilities. Helmets. Free. Poudre Ponds, 1013 N. 25th Ave., GR. 6:30pm. www.

GreeleyBikes.com.

MAY 23 Silver Spokes Ride Ride 8-10 miles on local recreational trails and low-stress routes with Bicycle Ambassadors to guide you. Bikes and helmets required, but can be provided.

Ages 50+. Free. Registration required.

Senior Center, 1200 Raintree Dr., FC. 970-221-6987, www.fcgov.com/ recreator/.

AUGUST 7 Full Moon Ride A casual ride along the Poudre River Trail by the light of the moon. Helmets encouraged. Bike lights required. Poudre River Ranch Natural Areas Trailhead, Red Barn, 71st Ave. and the Poudre River, GR. Dusk. www.greeleybikes.com.

JUNE 9 Full Moon Ride A casual ride along the Poudre River Trail by the light of the moon. Helmets encouraged. Bike lights required. Island Grove Park Trailhead, 14th Ave. and D St., GR. Dusk. www.greeleybikes.com.

JUNE 11 Art by Bike Tour Join fellow cyclists on a slow-paced ride to experience Loveland’s worldclass public art collection. Registration required through Leisure Times Activity Guide. Mehaffey Park, South Parking Lot, 3285 W. 22nd St., LV. 970-9622383, www.cityofloveland.

JUNE 13 Family Bike Ride A casual 3- to 5-mile ride for all ages and abilities. Helmets. Free. Discovery Bay Pool, 714 E. 24th St., GR. 6:30pm. www.GreeleyBikes.com.

JUNE 24 Art by Bike Tour Join fellow cyclists on a slow-paced ride to experience Loveland’s worldclass public art collection. Registration required through Leisure Times Activity Guide. Chilson Senior Center, 700 E. 4th St., LV. 970-962-2383 www.cityofloveland.

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AUGUST 8 Family Bike Ride A casual 3- to 5-mile ride for all ages and abilities. Helmets. Free. Homestead Park, 3699 29th St., GR. 6:30pm. www.GreeleyBikes.com.

SEPTEMBER 11 Family Bike Ride A casual 3- to 5-mile ride for all ages and abilities. Helmets encouraged. Free.

Promontory Park, 1630 Promontory Circle, GR. 6:30pm. www.GreeleyBikes.com.

RACES

JULY 23 40 in the Fort MTB Race One of Colorado’s toughest mountain bike races. 20- or 40-mile options.

Various age categories and prices.

Volunteer or race. Lory State Park, 708 Lodgepole Dr., Bellvue, FC. 6am-4pm. www.overlandmtb.org.

JULY 29 Laramie Enduro MTB Race One of the nation’s premier endurance mountain bike races. Various age categories and prices. Volunteer or race.

Headquarters Road (FS 707), about a 20-min. drive southeast of Laramie, Wyo. 7am. www.laramieenduro.org.

SEPTEMBER 17 Stone Temple 8 MTB Race An eight-hour, 15.1-mile loop race.

Teams or individuals. Kids and adults.

Prices vary. Curt Gowdy State Park, 1264 Granite Springs Rd., Cheyenne, Wyo. www.overlandmtb.org.

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

CLASSES

JUNE 8 Smart Cycling: Road Rules Learn how to ride safely and legally.

Lecture-style class; bikes not required.

Ages 14+. Free. Register online. City of Fort Collins Administration Building, 281 N. College Ave., FC. 5:30-9pm. www.fcgov.com/recreator/.

JUNE 10 Smart Cycling: Road Skills On-bike handling skills and build confidence. Bikes and helmets required and can be provided. Ages 14+. Free. Call to register. Westbridge Medical Suites, 1107 S. Lemay Ave., FC. 8:30am-1pm.

970-221-6987, www.fcgov.com/recreator/.

JUNE 15 Go By Bike: Everyday Cycling Learn what to ride, wear, carry and safety techniques for every day transportation.

Free. Online registration information can be found in the Summer issue of Leisure Times. Chilson Recreation Center, 700 E. 4th St., LV. 5:30-7pm. www.cityofloveland.org/biketowork.

JUNE 22 Bicycle Friendly Driver Certification Learn about traffic laws and responsibilities and how to avoid crashes or conflicts. Free.

Ages 16+. Online registration information can be found in the Summer issue of Leisure Times. Chilson Recreation Center, 700 E. 4th St., LV. 5:30-7pm. www.cityofloveland.org/biketowork.

JULY 5-26 Learn to Ride Using a safe, easy and effective method, students learn to balance, pedal, start, stop, steer, and how to properly fit and wear a helmet. Ages 14+. Free. Register online. 220 N Howes St., Unit B, FC. 5-6:30pm. www.fcgov.com/recreator/.

JULY 18 Smart Cycling: Road Rules Learn how to ride safely and legally in traffic or on trails. This is a lecture-style class; bikes not required. Ages 14+. Free.

Register online. Summitview Church, Rm. 204, 1601 W. Drake Rd., FC. 5:30-9pm. www.fcgov.com/recreator/.

JULY 20 Smart Cycling: Road Skills On-bike handling skills and build confidence. Bikes and helmets required and can be provided. Ages 14+. Free. Call to register. Summitview Church, Rm. 204, 1601 W. Drake Rd., FC. 4:30-9pm. 970221-6987, www.fcgov.com/recreator/.

ONGOING CLASSES

Bicycle Friendly Driver Learn about traffic laws and responsibilities and how to avoid crashes or conflicts. Free. Ages 16+. Register online.

Check website for more class dates. www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org.

1.5 hour class: 3/23, 4/18, 5/8, 6/15, 7/10, 8/30. Locations and times vary.

Cycling in Winter Learn tips and techniques to help you ride safely, confidently and comfortably in the winter. Free.

Check website for class dates. www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org.

Cycling with Children The benefits of cycling with kids, including, kid-friendly gear, safety, route selection, and how to teach children the rules of the road.

Free. Check website for class dates. www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org.

Cycle Touring Basics Prepare to pedal to your next vacation destination. Learn about bikes used for touring, panniers, trailers, camping equipment and clothing. Free.

Check website for class dates. www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org.

Everyday Cycling Learn what to ride, what to wear, what to carry, how to carry stuff, route selection and safety techniques when you want to bike for every day transportation.

Free. Check website for class dates. www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org.

7/13, 6-7pm, McKee Conference and Wellness Center, 2000 N. Boise Ave., LV. 970-221-6987, www.cityofloveland. org/biketowork.

Ninja Mountain Bike Skills Clinics Co-sponsored by Lee’s Cyclery. Each weekend offers a one- or two-day course, on fundamentals, or intermediate/ advanced skills. All ages. Prices vary.

Curt Gowdy State Park, 1264 Granite Springs Rd., Cheyenne, Wyo. https:// sandiegomountainbikeskills.com/ upcoming-clinics/.

6/10-11, 7/15-16, 9/16-17, 10/28-29

Women on a Roll For women interested in bicycling.

Learn about women-specific clothing and gear, where to ride, tips for biking with kids, safety tips, and how to connect with local women’s cycling clubs and organizations. Free. Check website for more class dates. www. bicycleambassadorprogram.org. 5/31, 5:30-8:30pm (includes a 1-hour ride), REI, 4025 S. College Ave., FC. Wrench Sessions: Survival Skills Learn to fix and keep your bike running smooth. $50. Lee’s Cyclery; specific store locations vary. 9-11am. 970-4826006, www.leescyclery.com. 4/9, 5/21, 6/11, 7/9, 8/13, 9/10 For more information about bicycling events, rides and classes in Fort Collins and Larimer County, visit www.bicycleambassadorprogram.org.

Visit www.greeleybikes.com for cycling events in Greeley-Evans. Check www.cityofloveland.org/biketowork for Loveland bicycle events and classes.

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| THE LAST MILE |

RIDE, BECAUSE...

Being here on two wheels CARL NASSAR

A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, a gun-slinging fellow named Han Solo rode a spaceship called the Millennium Falcon....

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GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

IT WAS HIS SHIP, YET IT WAS MORE than that: It was an expression of who he was, a testament to his irrepressible spirit.

But I ask you, can a bike be a Falcon (the Millennium sort)? And who needs a Falcon anyway?

I say, “YES and I do!”

One of the few things I’ve learned about life is that there’s no escape from hurt and anxiety. But that hasn’t stopped me and others from trying to elude it—our culture offers up an assortment of distractions both at our fingertips and in our cabinets. And while some of these offer shortterm relief, they seldom offer much more.

Once we realize there’s no way to escape our feelings—that there’s no way to forever repress or dodge, and no magical cure forthcoming—we’re left with the reality of finding a way to stay with them, move through them or let them move through us.

Thankfully, there are many ways to stay with our feelings.

As Buddhists might say, there are many sorts of meditation—walking meditation, breathing meditation, eating meditation…and RIDING meditation.

We may need that now more than ever. For some of us, the many changes going on all around us have augmented anxiety. Some of us dream about a world where the underlying traumas of our individual lives, and the collective traumas of our shared cultures, transform in the warmth of a healing light. We dream of a time when we come to understand—to truly experience—living well within ourselves, with one another and with the remarkable diversity of life on this fantastical planet.

But today has instead become a time when our nation and communities sometimes feel divided and tumultuous, when dreams are shattered, when life takes us on a difficult route.

So I believe it’s time for us to board our spaceships, indeed, to mount our bikes, and ride!

Ride as an expression of who we are and the dreams we never want to forget.

Ride as a way to pedal with our feelings, instead of avoiding them.

Ride an expression of my commitment to the power of living locally.

Ride to feel alive in the elements— the hot summer sun beating down; the

cold winter air against my face.

Ride because I like my bicycle’s emissions record.

Ride not to get away from life, but to find myself in it.

Ride because it’s meditation-incostume.

Ride because it’s who I am. And that’s the most important thing in all of this: To hold on to who you are, with courage, with kindness, and with conviction.

I never want to believe we’re riding our last mile. Today may feel like an uphill part of the ride, but I believe good dreams live on, just on the other side of the climb.

GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS

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GUIDE TO NORTHERN COLORADO BICYCLING CULTURE AND EVENTS