Lee's Cyclery Blog

This past Sunday I took part in the 22nd Elephant Rock Cycling Festival in Castle Rock, CO. I must say, it was quite an experience!  Whether you’re an avid cyclist or just getting into cycling, events like these allow you to ride with others that share your same passion for cycling.  The last time I rode in the event more than a few years ago, there were scattered groups of riders along the course and a few who turned towards the 100 mile loop.  This year, entry into the Douglas County Fairgrounds was backed up onto and down the highway and a solid line of cyclists streamed around the 100 and 62 mile courses.  It’s no wonder Denver is ranked as one of the top five fittest cities in the US!   Couch sales must be pretty dismal in this part of the state.  Check this link out you’ll be amazed.

Shortly after starting the ride you could clearly see there were as many agendas as there were riders, with some mistaking the backfiring of a car for a starting gun, because they were clearly on a mission to get first dibs at the aid stations. Others just wanted to have company in their attempts to achieve their personal best distance, no matter what their time.  I don’t know what it is about the roads in that area, but they are some of the best sounding roads I’ve ever rolled on (only to be outdone by Slick Rock in Moab!)  If you’ve ever smelled ice or felt fast water you know what I’m talking about. The rolling hills urged all to charge up promising cooling descents as rewards.   The aid stations were more like family reunions than rest stops, and bonds there will last until the next year and thereafter.  Large, small, fast or slow, it didn’t matter, and every rider earned whatever price they put on reaching the day’s finish line.  No stop watches, podiums or sprint finishes; the makings of a perfect race!  “Thank you” to my wife for setting it up.
A number of these events are held throughout the year across Colorado – enter one and enjoy!  Visit the sites listed below to find one that fits your needs: Bicycle Colorado – Colorado Bicycle Rides -  or this calendar

The Winter Park Mountain Bike Race Series kicks off this weekend and hopefully the weather will cooperate.  Six X-country and two Super D events make up this year’s series.  Visit Epicsingletrack.com for registration and more information.  Hope to see you there!

Something else you may enjoy in the coming months is the Rocky Mountain Bicycle Show (RMBS) Aug 22 -23.  I didn’t even know we (Co.) hosted one!  Now this may not compare with Interbike in Vegas but it does showcase some of the top bike builders in the US.  Over a dozen local area builders will be in attendance to showcase their works and I’m sure they will happily take measurements for your new ride.  Visit the RMBS website for more details.

If your in or about the southeast Fort Collins area this weekend you may want to check out the Fossil Creek Family Bike Fair on Saturday June 13th from 11am – 4pm to be held at the Oval Pavilion.  Bring your unwanted bike parts or your wallet to the family velo swap, listen to some live music or participate in some of the many bicycling events.  Visit  FCgov for more information.

Finally, this week’s tip – sign up for at least one bicycling event this year to inspire you to get out and ride whilst keeping that goal in mind.  Or at the very least, pick a route you would like to ride, put it on the calendar and treat it like an event!
Hope the bike treats you well this week or rather treat your bike well this week and she’ll return the favor.