‘Tis the season for fat bike lovers! With the fresh snow covering the Fruita desert, fat bikes get their chance to shine and show you what they’ve got!
If somehow, you’ve never had exposure to a fat bike, here’s a quick definition of what they are – a mountain bike with oversized tires (typically 3.8+ inches).
Now, you might wonder why someone would ever want a bike with little or no suspension, and large tires. It’s because these bikes shine on snow, sand, and muddy terrain. The extra size allows your bike to “float” over the ground. This makes it much easier to pedal on the not-so-perfect ground conditions.
So, now that you understand a little bit more about fat bikes let’s explore the areas that are perfect for using them! 
* Grand Mesa – The snow-packed areas of Mesa Top, Flowing Park, and West Bench are perfect spots to give these bikes a go. View the US Forest Service’s website to get maps and directions to Mesa Top and Flowing Park. West Bench starts at the Mesa Lakes Resort area. Look to mtbproject.com for maps and directions. Please be aware that fat bikes are NOT allowed on the trails groomed for Nordic skiing.
* All Local Trails – Fat Bikes are permitted on all local trails in the Grand Valley. These include the systems at Kokopelli, 18 Road, Tabegauche (aka Lunch Loops), Palisade, and Rabbit Valley. When these trails are snow-packed, your standard mountain bike might have some issues. However, fat bikes will cruise right through the snow. As a bonus, when Rabbit Valley is dry and sandy, having a fat bike will be your friend!
With so many great places to ride in the area, how will you know if you like it or not? Well, CBB has fat bike rentals! We stock the Devinci Minus XT. This bike offers a 1x drivetrain with 4.8” tires, allowing you to pedal through whatever mother nature throws your way. It is only $45 for a 4-hour rental, or $69 for a full day (24 hours). Contact the shop today to reserve your fat bike and keep riding our trails no matter what the weather throws your way.
