Congratulations to Durango’s own Cooper Wells as he won the Junior National Cyclocross Championship held in Louisville Kentucky! Finishing first in the 11-12 year old category. We are sure that this is one of many championships for Cooper!

Here’s some pros and cons for purchasing a Fat Tire Bike. Brought to you by our partners at Leland House and Lola’s and Pedal DurangoA fat tire bike can be a great choice for winter riding, but whether it’s the right fit for you depends on a few factors. Here’s what to consider:

Pros of a Fat Tire Bike for Winter Riding:

1. Better Traction:
   • Fat tires, typically 3.7 inches or wider, distribute your weight more evenly across the surface. This provides better grip on loose or slippery surfaces like snow, ice, and mud.
2. Stability:
   • The larger tires help maintain stability on uneven or soft terrain, which is common in winter when trails might be covered with snow, sand, or frozen ground.
3. Comfort:
   • Fat tires are often lower pressure, allowing for a smoother, more comfortable ride over rough terrain. You won’t feel every bump, making longer winter rides more enjoyable.
4. Versatility:
   • Fat tire bikes are adaptable to a wide range of conditions, from snow to sand to gravel. If you’re looking for an all-season bike that can handle varying conditions, a fat tire bike fits the bill.
5. Fun Factor:
   • Many riders find that fat tire bikes are a lot of fun to ride, particularly in winter conditions. Riding on snow can feel like a unique adventure.

Cons of a Fat Tire Bike for Winter Riding:

1. Weight:
   • Fat tire bikes tend to be heavier than regular bikes, which can make them harder to pedal, especially if you’re riding in deep snow or hilly terrain. It may feel more cumbersome for extended rides.
2. Cost:
   • Fat tire bikes can be more expensive than regular bikes, particularly models built specifically for winter or harsh conditions. You’ll also need to factor in maintenance costs, like snow-ready tires.
3. Storage and Transportation:
   • Due to their size, fat tire bikes may be harder to store or transport, especially if you don’t have a bike rack that can handle larger tires.
4. Not Ideal for All Winter Conditions:
   • If your winter riding consists of mostly paved or plowed roads, a fat tire bike might be overkill. You’d be better off with something more suited to the conditions, like a mountain bike with winter-specific tires.
5. Speed and Efficiency:
   • While they offer excellent grip, fat tires are slower than regular tires due to the extra surface area in contact with the ground. If you’re looking for fast rides on clear or icy roads, a fat tire bike may not be as efficient.

Things to Consider Before Buying:

• Where You’ll Ride:
  • If you mostly ride on groomed trails, bike paths, or roads that get plowed regularly, you may not need a fat tire bike. However, if you’re planning to ride on deep snow, frozen lakes, or rugged off-road terrain, it could be a great choice.
• Your Local Winter Conditions:
  • If your area experiences heavy snowfall, icy trails, and rugged paths, a fat tire bike will provide the stability and traction needed. But if winters are milder with little snow, you may not see much benefit.
• Other Gear:
  • You may also want to consider additional winter gear, such as studded tires, thermal clothing, and winter-specific accessories. The extra traction of fat tires combined with studded tires can make a big difference on icy conditions.

Conclusion:

If you’re excited about riding in challenging winter conditions, especially off-road, or enjoy the idea of riding through snow or on frozen trails, a fat tire bike could be a fantastic investment. But if you’re just looking to commute on snowy streets or ride on cleared paths, it might be overkill. Consider your specific riding needs, terrain, and how often you plan to ride in winter to determine if a fat tire bike is right for you.