Roll Out: Rides for all 2015

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FAMILY RIDE: Fort Collins

MY FAMILY FEELS blessed to have dedicated trails that crisscross our hometown, Fort Collins. This allows us to ride together, learning bicycle safety and etiquette. Many of our streets are wide enough to ride side by side in dedicated bike lanes, parents between cars and kids. Depending on the age and number of children, and the ability of their adult guides to han-dle stress, bicycling as a family is usu-ally best to work into gradually.

My parenting skills were never tested more than when my young son

was learning stop really means STOP, looking at something means you have a good chance of hitting it and those crazy arm motions mean something after all! Now that my youngest daugh-ter is 6 years old, can ride her own bike and generally understand these concepts, we like to ride together as a family to destinations for fun and practical benefit.

One of our favorite rides starts at the Gardens at Spring Creek. Besides being a great place to visit by itself, the Gardens are wonderful for short, sim-

ple, safe excursions. At the Gardens, you can connect to the scenic Spring Creek Trail, which runs west to Spring Canyon Park or east to Creekside Park, where there is a small picnic pavilion, an air station with bike tools, grass and shade trees. An added bonus is that this park provides quick access to a Dairy Queen that has dedicated bike parking.

The Spring Creek Trail also con-nects to the Mason Trail, which runs north and south adjacent to the MAX line. If you go north, you’ll travel through the CSU Campus. On Satur-days in the summer, our family often pauses at the Larimer County Farm-ers’ Market west of Oak and Mason Streets. There’s a big tree there, great snacks and porta-potties.

Sometimes we continue north up Mason Street to the Museum of

EASY CRUISING Relax with family, friends or by yourself on a recreational rideChris Hutchinson


FAMILY RIDE: Greeley

Discovery for fun things to do and explore. It has restrooms and a Daz-bog Coffee Shop nearby for refueling adults and kids alike. The museum also can be a starting or ending point as it connects to the Poudre River Trail in its backyard.

Head north and west up the Pou-dre River Trail and you’ll see a small bridge over to Legacy Park. To the left of the bridge on the far side is (usually) a rope kids can use to swing out into the water. When the weather is warm, kids can f ind tadpoles in the nooks and crannies along the river bank. We of-ten bring a picnic and make a day out of splashing in the shallow water under the shady trees.

A really beautiful ride for individ-uals or families who can handle a long haul is an out and back on the Poudre

Family and recreational bicycling basicsTips to help “slow” rides be more fun for everyone

• Treats, treats, treats. Like an animal trainer, you’ll get significantly better behavior doling out a steady supply of treats along the way. Also, let fun activities serve as rewards for kids to help them and you have fond memories of your family rides.

• Take potty breaks wherever possible. “Mom! Dad! I have to go!” These words strike terror into the hearts of parents—unless, of course, you’ve planned ahead. Restau-rants, shops and even gas stations usually will help you out.

• Drink water whenever you stop. Colorado’s dry desert climate causes people to be-come dehydrated quickly and without them even realizing it. Hydrate before your ride and frequently along the way.

• Remember you’re always half-way back. The nice thing about an out-and-back trip is that you’re always half-way through your trip. You’ve got just as far to go back as you’ve traveled. Pay attention to everyone’s energy levels. Don’t hesitate to take a break, have a snack and water, and head back to the start.

• Think hard out, easy back. Usually if you’re able to go uphill or into the wind on the outbound journey, the return will be all the sweeter. Be careful of an easy out-bound leg, and turn around sooner than later or you and your kids may struggle getting back.


FAMILY RIDE: Loveland

River Trail either to the east or west. In Fort Collins, the trail meanders for 10 miles. On the east side of Interstate 25, the Poudre River Trail extends a whopping 21 miles through Windsor and Greeley. Unfortunately, the two sections aren’t connected just yet. Lar-imer County, the Town of Timnath and the City of Fort Collins are working together to close the gap.

Remember, whether you’re out with the family, friends or by yourself, slow the pace and enjoy the journey. You’re making memories with every rotation of the pedals.


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COMMUTE: Fort Collins

WHILE I RELISH my role as a MA-MIL (Middle Aged Man In Lycra), one or two weekend rides on a high-end bike hardly scratches my cycling itch. I embrace the saying that, “I don’t ride my bike because it is a good day; it is a good day because I ride my bike.” This choice makes commuting by bike a joy that I feel many more people should not only con-sider, but also embrace.

In my four decades’ experience rid-ing on the road with traffic, the quarter century spent in northern Colorado have been the best. I visited China and Cali-

fornia this year. The former was an awful place to commute and the latter had nice weather, but neither compared to the bike-friendly routes we enjoy. Beyond bike-friendly infrastructure, other con-siderations help make bike commuting a right choice.

THE RIGHT RIDEWhat is the ideal bike for commuting? It’s the bike you feel comfortable riding. My commuting bikes all have been res-cued strays that I could replace in the event of collision or theft (thankfully,

neither situation has yet arisen). Because most of NoCo is relatively flat, I have commuted much of the time on a fixed-gear bike, because my fixed gears have been simple, comfortable and dependable. (I realize this is an unusual choice, but those qualifications are right.)

To start out, a mountain bike may serve you well for many reasons. Sec-ond-hand fat-tire bikes can be purchased readily and inexpensively. The upright handlebar setup affords a better view of traffic and pedestrians than drop bars. Wider tires provide a comfortable ride, stability and a measure of greater protec-tion from punctures.

Even if you are not among the fa-natic few who ride all the time, fenders may be a good idea because our weather changes by the hour and a nice morning ride could turn into a wet rainy one by

THE DAILY CRANK Choose bike commuting for all the right reasonsMarty Schreiner


COMMUTE: Greeley

day’s end. Clothes and gear can stow in a backpack or panniers if you add a rack to your bike.

The bottom line is, choose a bike that you find comfortable and stable, and have it checked out by a bike-savvy friend or local bike shop to ensure everything (especially brakes) functions well. Get a comfortable saddle, basic equipment for flat repair, and front and back lights. An investment in these few items will reimburse you in decreased vehicle costs, reduced stress, and increased health and mental outlook from a good ride.

THE RIDER’S RIGHTSWhen I began commuting, John Forester’s book “Effective Cycling” was a new release. It highlighted the rules and rights of bikes, as well as ways to pre-vent conflict and collision. I thankfully

absorbed that information and my total count of car conflicts resulting in injury is still zero. The safety highlights are fairly basic. As a cyclist, you’re consid-ered a vehicle by the law and you’re sub-ject to the rules and rights to the road. Ride to the right, obeying all traffic lights and signs. When riding next to a

line of parked cars leave space and watch for opening doors. Signal turns with a briefly outstretched arm in the intended direction. Be attentive and anticipate what vehicles and pedestrians around you might do and respond with calm and control. In Colorado, the law does not require you to, but wear a helmet always.

Bike commuting basicsPrepare for your rides with knowledge

• Choose a commuting route and practice riding it on a weekend day when you are not pressed for time and can become comfortable with your commuting path.

• Begin commuting when weather is less likely to hinder your initial commutes.

• Find a comfortable, stable, dependable, safe bike with good brakes, lights and reli-able tires. Local bike shops are a great resource.

• Learn and follow the rules of the road (www.fcgov.com/bicycling).

• Read more useful tips about bike commuting at www.bikeleague.org/content/commuting.


COMMUTE: Loveland

THE RIGHT REASONSRiding will save wear on your car and money. We have two vehicles; one is my backup and the low mileage it has earns it a lower insurance rate. My being fresher when I arrive at work and having time to debrief going home compensates the extra time I spend riding instead of driving a car. The view on any of Fort Collins’ trails is better than the view of any car bumper seen through a windshield. And a cou-ple of 30-minute commuting cardio sessions beat an hour on a treadmill any day.

Riding to work (or school) is an achievable goal with multiple benefits. Make the decision to exercise your right to join the ranks of committed commuters. PH

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BREW tour


BERTHOUDCity Star Brewing321 Mountain Ave.970-532-7827

ESTES PARKEstes Park Brewery 470 Prospect Village Dr.970-586-5421

FORT COLLINS 1933 Brewing Company4025 South Mason St., Unit C970-377-4107

Anheuser Busch2351 Busch Dr.970-221-0922

Black Bottle Brewery1611 S. College Ave.970-493-2337www.blackbottlebrewery.com

CB & Potts1415 W. Elizabeth St.970-221-1139www.cbpotts.com

CooperSmiths Pub & Brewing5 Old Town Square970-498-0483www.coopersmithspub.com

CranknStein215 N. College Ave.970-818-7025www.facebook.com/Cranknstein

Equinox Brewing Company133 Remington St.970-484-1368

Fort Collins Brewery & Tavern1020 E. Lincoln Ave.970-682-2260www.fortcollinsbrewery.com

Funkwerks1900 E. Lincoln Ave., Unit B970-482-3865

Hops and Berries125 Remington St.970-493-2484

Horse & Dragon Brewing Company124 Racquette Dr.970-631-8038www.horseanddragonbrewing.com

New Belgium Brewery500 Linden St.970-221-0524

Odell Brewing Company 800 E. Lincoln Ave.970-498-9070www.odellbrewing.com

Pateros Creek Brewing Company242 N. College Ave.970-368-2739www.pateroscreekbrewing.com

Road 341213 W. Elizabeth St.970-491-9934www.road34.com

Tap and Handle307 S. College Ave.970-484-1116www.tapandhandle.com

Taps165 Boardwalk970-449-4462www.tapsfc.com

Wilbur’s Total Beverage2201 S. College Ave.970-226-8662www.wilburstotalbeverage.com

Zwei Bruder Brewing4612 S. Mason St., #120970-223-2482www.zweibruderbrewing.com

GREELEYBroken Plow Brewery4731 W. 10th St.970-301-4575www.brokenplowbrewery.com

Crabtree Brewing2961 29th St.970-356-0516

Pitcher’s Brewery & Sport Shack2501 11th Ave.970-353-3393

Weldworks Brewing508 8th Ave. 970-460-6345www.weldworksbrewing.com

Wiley Roots Brewing Company625 3rd St.970-691-1641www.wileyrootsbrewing.com

LONGMONT300 Suns Brewing335 1st Ave.720-442-8292www.300sunsbrewing.com

Left Hand Brewing1265 Boston Ave.303-772-0258

Oskar Blues1800 Pike Rd. #B303-776-1914

Pumphouse Brewery540 Main St.303-702-0881.

LOVELANDBig Beaver Brewing 2707 Eisenhower Blvd. Unit 9www.bigbeaverbrew.com

Crow Hop Brewing Co.217 E. 3rd St. 970-633-0643www.crowhopbrewing.com

Grimm Brothers Brewhouse547 N. Denver Ave.970-624-6045

Loveland Ale Works118 W. 4th St.970-619-8726

Rock Bottom Brewery 6025 Sky Pond Dr.970-622-2077www.rockbottom.com

Verboten Brewing1550 Taurus Ct.970-988-6333970-310-3458

WINDSORHigh Hops at the Windsor Gardener6461 State Highway 392970-686-7771www.highhops.net

always ride responsibly


CSU Campus

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MANY BENEFITS ARE gained from road cycling regardless of objective, mood, skill level or season. It’s a great way to get in shape, relieve stress and get a cardio workout. Riding with friends and family can be adventurous and fun. A wide range of rides makes riding available for everyone.

A RIDE FOR EVERY SKILL LEVELIf you’ve never been on a road bike or it’s been a while, don’t be intimidated. Riding a bike is much like, well, riding a bike. Make sure you have the essential “Must Have” items, such as a helmet,

water bottle, front and rear lights, porta-ble tire pump, spare tube(s) and two tire levers. Five- to 15-mile rides are average for most beginning road cyclists. Stay close to home the first few times out.

When you feel comfortable, go for longer rides, group rides and tack-le more challenging terrain. “Nice to Have” items handy for longer rides include bike shorts, a moisture-wick-ing jersey, a basic computer to track speed and miles, clipless pedals and shoes, and gloves. Twenty- to 50-mile rides are routine for intermediate road cyclists. Now’s the time to register for

that charity ride, complete your f irst metric century (64 miles) and f ind your limits.

Once you know your limits, it’s time to shatter them. It also may be time to invest in “Really Nice to Have” items, such as bib shorts, a GPS/advanced computer and a rain/wind jacket with ref lective accents. Ad-vanced road cyclists ride in almost any weather, any time of the year and for any distance. Up the ante by challeng-ing yourself to complete a century ride (100 miles), ride a century in under f ive hours or set a goal for miles to ride in a year (5,000 miles is ambitious).

A RIDE FOR EVERY SEASONSpringtime brings longer days, and af-ternoon and evening rides are optimal. If you stayed in shape over the winter months, jump right into some

A RIDE FOR EVERYONEJames Shelton

BEGINNER RIDE: Southeast Loveland Loop Watch out for traffic, but enjoy this relax-ing, scenic 16-mile loop that has very little climbing. Go around the 90-degree bend before 1st St. close to the end.


INTERMEDIATE RIDE: Cement Plant and Douglas Rollers Work on your cornering on the bends in the first few miles which lead up to a short easy climb before descending toward the cement plant and heading back east. The three Douglas Road rollers can be chal-lenging, but fun. Cross Terry Lake Road cautiously as traffic is moving faster than it may seem. Weave around a few ponds and the Fort Collins Country Club before head-ing back into Fort Collins.

moderate climbing like up to Carter Lake or Horsetooth Reservoir. If you encounter a spring shower while on the road, lower your tire pressure a little (by 10psi) for better tire grip. Look out for water collecting on roads, take turns wider and descents slower, and be aware your brakes may slip a little the first time using them after they get wet.

Long summer days are ideal for lon-ger rides. Get out early when it’s really hot and remember your body will require more hydration. Summertime is a great time to explore a few mountain towns because the air’s cooler at higher eleva-tions—the views aren’t bad either.

Fall’s decreasing temperatures and beautiful colors can bring extra enjoyment to road cycling. This is a fantastic time for more difficult climbs like Rist Canyon, Red Feather Lakes, Estes Park, Flagstaff or Sunshine Canyon.

Winter is the most challenging time of year to get in consistent cycling, but it can be accomplished. Take advan-tage of those unseasonably nice weather days, but brave the cold days every now and then as well. Wear extra layers for added warmth when needed.

A RIDE FOR EVERY TIME FRAMEThirty-minute, short rides are great for moderate intervals and a medium intensity for eight to 10 miles. Try an easy pace for 10 minutes, moderate pace for 15 minutes and cool down for the last five minutes.

Find a few 15- to 20-mile routes that are your “go to” 60-minute rides. Use these routes for intense interval training, setting time and speed goals, practicing cornering, becoming more aerodynamic and improving on the basics.

Challenge yourself with regular

rides of 50+ miles once or twice a month, but know they’ll take three hours or more. These rides are great for exploring new areas, improving your endurance and building lean muscle. Make sure you are prepared for longer rides both physically and mentally, and take extra water and some food for energy.

Regardless of your skill level, the season or your time available for riding, have fun, be safe and make memories.


ADVANCED RIDE: South Horsetooth/Masonville/Carter Begin this 50-mile ride by heading up to the south end of Horsetooth Reservoir for a few challenging climbs before dropping down into Masonville. Just south of High-way 34, choose either to take the Carter Lake loop from the north if you are up for a straight up steep climb and a switch back descent, or head south and climb the switchbacks up to Carter Lake and head down the steep north side for a thrilling de-scent. Either way, enjoy the mostly flat ride around the lake. Head back west on W. 1st St. and then north on the long straight ride toward Fort Collins.

Road cycling basicsPractice pre-ride checks and courtesy.

3-2-1 Courtesy Code• THREE feet to pass. If you’re driving a

vehicle, allow at least three feet between you and a cyclist when passing.

• TWO abreast when clear. If you are a cyclist, only ride two abreast if doing so won’t impede traffic.

• SINGLE file. If you’re a cyclist, ride single file to allow cars to pass safely.

ABC Check

A is for air. Inflate your tires within the pressure limits printed on the side of

your tire.

B is for brakes. Make sure your brake pads are not worn to less than 1/4” and

that they are not rubbing against the wheel or tire. Make sure you can fit your thumb between the brake lever and handlebar when fully squeezed.

C is for chain. Inspect it for rust and gunk. Clean and lube your chain on

a regular basis (every seven to 10 days or 150 to 250 miles) and after every wet ride.


BRAVEHOME OF THE

970-416-0417105 EAST MYRTLE • FORT COLLINS

bravenewwheel.com

970-416-0417105 EAST MYRTLE • FORT COLLINS

bravenewwheel.com970-416-0417

105 EAST MYRTLE • FORT COLLINS

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F

Ride where motorists can see you and

Call Traffic Operations for more information on the Neighborhood Traffic Safety Program.

970.221.6630

626 LINDEN•FORT COLLINS

Remember to ride WITH traffic


HOW DO YOU LIKE your mountain bike trails? Fast and flowy? Slow and rocky? Tucked among the evergreens? Contouring a shoreline? Well, you’re in luck. From Hewlett Gulch to Devil’s Backbone and every inch of single track in between, northern Colorado trails won’t let you down. The perfect ride awaits—no matter your skill level.

GET TO KNOW THESE TRAILSWith nearly seven miles of riding, the East and West Valley Trails in Lory State Park offer beginning riders a relatively carefree, smooth and ‘flat’ riding experience (there are no massive hills to climb). These trails are ideal for both kids and adults learning to ride. The West trail contours Lory’s foothills and many small drainages, gradually climbing to the south as you near the Arthur’s Rock parking area. The East trail contours the backside of hogbacks that bor-der Horsetooth Reservoir and offers straight lines, fun corners, a few be-ginner technical moves and views of the reservoir. Park at the Timber trailhead or the bike park and ride south on the West trail, returning north on the East.

For a longer ride, start south of Lory on the Swan-Johnson and Shore-line trails originating from the Soder-berg Open Space trailhead and try your hand at Nomad on the return. Longer yet, park at the Blue Sky trailhead.

When you feel ready to ratchet it up a notch, try the Maxwell/Shoreline/Reservoir Ridge trails just west of Fort Collins. Rock gardens, the occasional

DIRT FOR ALL Get your fat tires up and over the hillsCarol Busch

BEGINNER RIDE: Lory State Park’s Valley Trail Ride the West Valley Trail N. to Arthur’s Rock Trailhead, go E. and return via the East Valley Trail. Or extend the ride with a figure-8 on the South Valley Trail Loop: at Arthur’s Rock parking, ride E. to South Valley Trail. Return on the W. side, cross back over to the East Valley Trail and ride N. to the start.


rattlesnake and flowy, shoreline riding make for a fine before- or after-work ride. Pedal to your preferred Maxwell trailhead (off CR 42 south of Hughes Stadium, or just west of Prospect and Overland), and begin the rocky, switchbacky ascent to CR 23 (a.k.a., Reservoir Road). Cross the road, take the left-hand trail, picking and dropping your way down to what the locals call Shoreline (it’s officially named Foothills) and continue north for 1.25 miles or so. You’ll pass the swim beach, ascend a short but steep grade and then level off adjacent to CR 23. Hit the pavement for .75 miles: cross Soldier Canyon Dam and begin a gentle climb before veering right onto Reservoir Ridge singletrack just before the summit. Pop immediately east to the front side or hang a left. You’ll cruise through a hidden meadow and then pedal to the re-routed North Loop. Either way, you’ll get a nice serving of rock, with a side dish and des-sert of more rock.

Horsetooth Mountain Open Space offers some of the best-advanced moun-tain bike riding in NoCo. I cut my teeth (and most of the surface area on both my knees) on Wathen. But for me, the crème de la crème is riding Mill Creek from top to bottom. It doesn’t matter how you get to the top: the long, slow pedal up the Towers service road, or a combo singletrack and service road. Either way you’ll be grateful for a short stop at the bench leading into the trail. Grab a bite to eat, fix your armor, let out a little tire pressure, then pedal on.

Up high, the trail ducks into north facing, relief-from-the-heat evergreens. You’ll contour the forest, maybe flush a grouse from a tree, and then just when you think you’re headed downhill, you encounter a rocky, lung-busting climb. One moment you surf down a rocky straightaway, the next you’re out of your saddle for a quick burst across and up a gulley. Tight switchbacks test your han-dling, and those mixed with rocky drops might have you puckering with hope.

You can bail at Loggers for a faster return to the Soderberg Trailhead or you can keep descending the circuitous and knobby trail into Lory State Park.

INTERMEDIATE RIDE: Maxwell-Shoreline-Michaud Ride Maxwell NW from the open space parking off CR 24. At the top, cross CR 23 road, pick up the single track that drops to the reservoir shoreline and heads N., past the swim beach, up a steep hill and termi-nates on the road. Ride pavement for about a mile. Pick up single track on the backside of Reservoir Ridge Open Space. Multiple options for returning to front side.


ADVANCED RIDE: Mill CreekPark at Blue Sky Trailhead Ride N. on connecter trail to the Swan Johnson Trail. Left on Towers - climb for 3 miles. Mill Creek is on the RT, opposite the Spring Creek Trail. Once you’re deposited in Lory State Park, return S. via the East Valley and Shoreline Trails. Multiple return options.

Of course, there’s a final climb to an intersection with Howard, but the last bit of trail is pure switchback fun, much better going down than up, although of course that’s an option. Ride Mill Creek in reverse and you’re king or queen of the mountain. Overall, Mill Creek lets you push your limits (or find new ones), test your skills and revel in freedom, dirty and two-wheeled.

Mountain biking basicsFollowing a few guidelines will help you have many happy trails.

A touch of etiquette makes for safe, happy trail users• Bikes always yield to pedestrians and horses. • Downhill users yield to uphill. • When passing horses, use special care and follow directions from the

horseback rider. • Respect trail closures, road closures and other trail users. • Stay on designated trails. Don’t make new trails. • Control your bicycle.Read more about trail etiquette: www.imba.com/about/rules-trail

Trailheads, fees & mapsKnow trailhead locations, parking fees and trail maps before you go. • City of Fort Collins Natural Areas - www.fcgov.com/naturalareas• Larimer County Parks - www.larimer.org/naturalresources/parkareas.htm• Lory State Park - http://cpw.state.co.us/placestogo/parks/Lory

Trail conditionsNoCo trails are well loved; do your part to keep them rideable. Local rangers close trails when they’re wet and muddy to minimize damage; respect these closures. Track trail status online at the above websites.

PHOTO COURTESY OF SHREDDING BETTYS



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