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Fatties get rolling: Mountain bikers switch to snow

20 riders got together for a fatbiking season kickoff in Fernie
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Fatbike riders in Fernie were out on Saturday Nov. 27 to beat the rain and enjoy the trails. (Image courtesy of Cindy Sleeman)

Over 20 fatbike riders got together to kick off the 2021-2022 season this past weekend in Fernie.

Heading out on Saturday (Nov. 27) morning, the riders managed to beat the rain and enjoy the Montane trails in crispy conditions.

Organiser of the event, Cindy Sleeman said that conditions were good for the day.

“Fatbiking season can have variable conditions, rain, melt-freezes it definitely helps to be aware of tire pressure,” she said.

“Low tire pressure can help as well as proper attire. We were lucky to have cold temps Saturday morning to allow for firm riding, with some icy sections. Studded tires are definitely recommended in Fernie. What’s a bit or rain?”

The winter sport had been growing in popularity of the years, making getting your paws on a fatbike harder than it should be.

“With the manufacturing shortages die to the pandemic, fat bikes are very hard to purchase or rent with minimal stock,” said Sleeman. Thankfully, for those without a bike of their own, both Gear Hub and Fernie Alpine Resort rent a small number of fatbikes.

Sleeman said she was excited for fatbiking to grow in popularity in Fernie.

“With Fernie being such a mecca for mountain biking, I expect it to flow over into fat biking. Watch for fat bike clinics and social rides happening throughout the season.”

The next event on the calendar is Global Fat Bike Day: Saturday Dec. 4.

READ MORE: Mixed fortunes for Fernie multi-use trails



scott.tibballs@thefreepress.ca
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