The Spirit Of The Mountain Bike

There is no denying that Colorado’s cycling culture and community is one of the most robust in the country. High-profile events like the USA Pro Cycling Challenge and Leadville 100 are delivering that pedal-friendly message to a global audience, and towns across Colorado are bringing out locals and tourists alike with cruiser nights and family rides.Courtesy of CrestedButte.comOne such town is Crested Butte, recognized for its rather palpable independent spirit and plethora of outdoor opportunities. Arguably the birthplace mountain biking, the folks in Crested Butte began putting fat tires on their bikes because of the pot-holes in the dirt roads throughout town in the early 1920’s, when mining was still the mainstay. No joke.While there have been a few changes on the fat-tire scene since the mining heydays, it still comes down to a frame, a seat, a crankshaft, a couple of tires, and some pedaling. Each year Crested Butte pays homage to their mountain bike heritage by hosting Crested Butte Bike Week, formally known as Fat Tire Bike Week.The longest running bike festival in the country, Crested Butte Bike Week, runs June 21-24, and includes free group rides, bike demos, a kick-off party at the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame, Mountain States Cup races, a free concert on Saturday evening and the infamous Chainless Downhill World Championships.Courtesy of Alex FenlonWith summer at its peak and the 32nd Annual Crested Butte Bike Week set for its biggest year ever, it might just be time to throw the bikes on rack and head down to CB. While you’re in town be sure to hit the award-winning Montanya Distillers for a post-ride thirst-quencher and be sure squeeze in a trip to the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame.So what are you waiting for?For more information on Crested Butte Bike Week click here.