The Beautiful Sites You Will See

This front range Adventure Multi-Day Tour is designed for beginner to intermediate-level mountain bikers looking for a thrill. You will bike down from the summit of Pikes Peak, follow a historic gold mining railroad, and enjoy stunning views of the Garden of the Gods. This three-day mountain biking journey is a fantastic way to experience some of Colorado’s best mountain biking areas.

Pikes Peak Summit

This unique adventure starts with a van ride to the top of Pikes Peak, where you will be able to take photos and enjoy stunning panoramic views of the area surrounding Colorado Springs. From there, you will bike down from the 14,115-foot summit, experiencing five different climatic zones on the way and stopping for plenty of photo ops. This fully-guided biking trip will be a full day, taking about seven hours, and you will love every minute of it.

Biking down Pikes Peak Highway from the summit is an amazing adventure that you will remember for years to come. You will enjoy jaw-dropping vistas of the front range’s surrounding mountain peaks and other unique geological features from the summit and many lookout points on the 19-mile trip back down the mountain.

Gold Camp Road

The Gold Camp Road route includes a little something for everyone: beautiful scenery, interesting history, and rugged landscapes for a fun mountain biking experience. This stunning bike ride is one you certainly do not want to miss. This three-hour downhill tour begins at the Pikes Peak Adventure Center, follows a historic 1800s gold mining railway, passes by a canyon wall, takes you through tunnels, and ensures excellent views of some of the best natural beauty in Colorado Springs.

The gravel biking path is accessible for beginner mountain bikers, and there is minimal elevation gain. The trip through North Cheyenne Cañon Park is about a three-hour ride and takes you around many wonders of Colorful Colorado’s wilderness. The park is home to wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, and a number of bird species. The beautiful sandstone peaks and clay soil make this a picturesque journey for all nature lovers.

Garden of the Gods

The 1,300-acre park at the base of the National Natural Landmark, Garden of the Gods, is a wonderful place to enjoy a peaceful bike ride. There are 15 miles of trails, spots to rock climb, horseback riding, and more. Between being on an e-bike for this tour and experiencing almost no elevation gain, this ride around the Garden of the Gods Park in designated bike lanes is a relaxing treat for bikers of all skill levels.

Garden of the Gods is a popular designation for both tourists and Colorado Springs locals, and it is not hard to see why. This beloved park is home to tons of fantastic wildlife, including birds of prey, songbirds, rabbits, sheep, deers, and more. On top of so many exciting species, the park’s geological features are an amazing backdrop for any outdoor activity. The trail you’ll travel on this bike ride is one of the most popular in all of Colorado Springs, and it will surely become one of your favorites, too.

How to Prepare for the Multi-Day Tour

While the tour comes with rental mountain bikes, bottled water, and on-the-trail meals, there are a few things you need to remember to bring to ensure a wonderful trip.

Wear Warm Clothing and Rain Gear

As temperatures on mountain peaks are significantly colder than in valleys, you should always dress in summer workout clothes and bring extra layers. The summit of Pikes Peak, in particular, is usually 30 degrees colder than Colorado Springs. 

One of the essential items that you will need is gloves. Without gloves, your fingers will get very cold on the windy trip down the mountain. It is also good to bring a pair of athletic pants that can go over your shorts for a quick change in the middle of a ride. Be sure to bring a zip-up or pullover jacket, as well as a raincoat in case of precipitation.

Wear Proper Shoes

It is essential to wear comfortable and safe footwear while riding a mountain bike. Shoes should be closed-toed, athletic shoes that you can wear for long distances. Because some of the trip involves hiking, it is best to wear lightweight and waterproof hiking shoes.

Pack Sunscreen and Other Personal Items

Be sure to pack a small day bag with any medications you take, sunscreen, toiletries, and anything else you might need throughout the day. The guided tours will have snacks, water, and first aid supplies.

Talk to Your Doctor

This multi-day mountain biking tour is available for beginner to intermediate riders. There will be guidance the whole way, and the trails are relatively easy with minimal elevation gain. However, because Pikes Peak is above 14,000-feet, be sure to talk to your doctor before the trip if high altitude is a concern for you to ensure you can travel safely to the summit. You should also consult with your doctor to ensure that you are in good health for three days of mountain bike riding. If it has been a while since you have biked, you might want to try a single-day mountain biking tour first to see if this multi-day tour is a good fit.

This three-day front country tour takes you to some of Colorado Springs’ best mountain biking locations. You will enjoy guided instruction on the trail and have plenty of opportunities to stop and enjoy the amazing scenery. If you are looking to explore the front range and improve your mountain biking skills, this Adventure Multi-Day Tour is a must-do!

The post Explore Colorado’s Mountains on our Adventure Multi-Day Tour appeared first on Pikes Peak Bike Tours.

We’ll go over both of these, giving you lots of helpful tips for getting started, and make sure you are ready to hop on and enjoy the exciting world of mountain biking. These trail suggestions are designed for absolute beginners to enjoy a quiet and easy trail and feel comfortable as you start to learn mountain bike skills.

Beginner Mountain Bike Trails Near Me in Colorado Springs

Red Rock Canyon Open Space

In West Colorado Springs, a short drive down Rte. 24, Red Rock Canyon Open Space is a beautiful park with many trail options. Beginners looking for easy rides to feel comfortable on a mountain bike should check out the Upper and Lower Dog Loops.

Garden of the Gods

The beautiful park surrounding the National Natural Landmark Garden of the Gods has well-maintained, flat trails that are perfect for beginners looking to learn how to mountain bike. There is ample parking and plenty of other fun activities to do as you enjoy the stunning scenery. 

Palmer Park

Located in northeast Colorado Springs, Palmer Park has over 25 miles of trails for mountain bikers of all difficulty levels. This is an excellent family-friendly destination and gives beginner mountain bikers plenty of space to try mountain biking for the first time and learn at their own pace.

Gold Camp Road

Initially a rail line, then a public road, and now a fantastic mountain bike destination now that the road is closed to vehicular traffic, Gold Camp Road is a wonderful spot to jump on your bike. Start at the parking lot where Gold Camp Road, High Drive, and N. Cheyenne Canon Road all converge just to the west of North Cheyenne Cañon Park. From there, Gold Camp Road steadily gains elevation and is just waiting for you to work on your mountain biking skills.

9 Tips for Basic Mountain Bike Skills

1. Maintain Your Bike

Having a proper mountain bike that is well maintained and ready for action is the most important first step. You cannot ride on trails with a road bike or an old bike that isn’t in good condition. A proper mountain bike should have pumped tires, oiled gears, and good brakes.

2. Dress for Success

Always wear a helmet when mountain biking. You can also get elbow and knee pads to be extra safe. Be sure to wear good shoes, pants, and a rain jacket if poor weather is in the forecast. 

3. Plan and Pack

It is crucial to have a map with you on the trail and plan your route in advance. Make sure you take plenty of water and snacks if you are on an all-day trip. Finally, a small first aid kit is always a good idea.

4. Focus on Where You Want to Go

Called “target fixation,” this skill helps you avoid obstacles. If you are paying attention to a rock or tree in your path, you are more likely to hit it. Instead, focus your gaze on the route, the way around, and the path a few seconds ahead of you. This will help you navigate the bike where you want to go and avoid the obstacles. 

5. Learn Proper Balance “Out of the Saddle”

Mountain bikers spend a lot of time with their butts off the bike seat. It is essential to know when to shift position, when to bend your knees, and how to prepare to go over obstacles. Shifting your weight is not necessarily intuitive, but it is a beneficial mountain bike skill for staying upright.

6. Use All the Gears

Learning how to use the different gears on a mountain bike will save you a ton of effort on the trail. If you are struggling to pedal, turn the gears down. Turn up the gears if you are peddling fast and not getting anywhere. Generally speaking, you should be on a lower gear when going uphill and a higher gear when going down. Finally, make sure you pedal through gear shifts, or you could damage the bike’s chain!

7. Go Easy on the Brakes

Beginners tend to brake too much when they first learn to mountain bike. It makes sense that you would want to take on new challenges as slowly as possible, but it is harder and more dangerous. When going over tree roots and rocks, having a little speed helps you clear the obstacle smoothly, so the best thing to do is brake lightly. Keep in mind that the bike was made for the trail, and if you keep your knees bent, you’ll be fine.

8. Relax and Stay Loose

Arguably the most important rule of mountain biking is to stay loose. Try to keep your muscles relaxed, and you will feel comfortable on the trail. If you tense up your muscles as you clear obstacles, you will feel the movements more and possibly injure yourself.

9. Learn from Friends

One great way to develop your mountain biking skills is to ride with more experienced mountain bikers. Inviting friends on your ride helps because you can follow behind them down the trail, watching as they change positions on the bike and navigate the terrain. In lieu of a ride with a friend, you can also join a Trailblazers Group Ride hosted by Trails End Trailblazers or take a class through MTB with Stacy.

Basic Rules of Mountain Biking Trail Etiquette 

Yield for bikers coming uphill.

It is much harder to climb a hill than descend one, so if you see a rider coming up your trail, pull over and give them the right of way. 

Give lots of space to hikers and horseback riders. 

You do not want to scare a horse on a trail, so make sure to pay attention to the rider and follow their lead. 

Greet others on the trail.

Give them notice of your presence and make people aware that you would like to pass. This is essential for sharing the trail and avoiding collisions.

Final Thoughts 

Once you have these basic mountain bike skills down, you can take them to the trail and start getting real mountain biking experience. These beginner-friendly trails have ample space to practice what you have read and start to feel comfortable on the bike. Happy riding!

The post Where to Learn How to Mountain Bike in Colorado Springs as a Beginner appeared first on Pikes Peak Bike Tours.

After waiting several years, tourists and Coloradons can finally ride The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway! 

If you love mountain landscapes, trains, bikes and having a good time — then our new tour is for you!

What is The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway?

You may be wondering, “what exactly is The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway?” 

If you’re new to the Colorado Springs area, you may have not heard of the Cog Railway as it stopped running in 2017. 

However, this top Colorado Attraction has been a part of Colorado’s history for many years, taking visitors to and from Pikes Peak since it’s first ride in June of 1891.

Since closing in 2017, the Cog Railway has had a major make-over of it’s Manitou Depot, Visitor Center, tracks and cog that totaled to $100 million and is ready to start taking passengers up it’s newly improved system starting at the end of May!

Sitting at an elevation 14,115 feet, the Cog Railway is not only the highest train in the U.S., it’s also one of the two cog railroads in the country.

Cog Up – Pedal Down

Want to experience a little bit of everything while you’re visiting Colorado Springs?

With our Cog Up – Pedal Down tour, you’ll enjoy a light breakfast before being dropped off at the Manitou Depot to start your Cog Up experience. Riding up the Cog you’ll experience the striking mountain views and extensive wildlife of elk to bighorn sheep before arriving at the summit. Once you arrive at the newly renovated summit you’ll be able to take in the 360 views, get something to eat with your group and download the new summit app to learn more about the history of the Pikes Peak region. 

This is when our Pedal Down experience starts. You will meet back up with your guides and receive instructions on how to ride your bike down Pikes Peak. Perfect for riders of any ability, our Pedal Down tour guides will be sure to make you feel comfortable and safe as you start your descent to the bottom. 

Once your ride has begun, you will bike down through eight distinct life zones, all different from the next. We will make several stops along the way to regroup and enjoy all of the spectacular scenery passing by. 

After you’ve worked your way down the mountain, you will get to enjoy a lunch with your group at one of our favorite local restaurants.

Spots are filling up so book your tour now and experience one of Colorado’s top attractions!

The post Colorado’s Top Attraction with A New Twist appeared first on Pikes Peak Bike Tours.

Grips

Yes, the grips on your handlebars can make a huge difference in the feel of the bike. After all, they are one of the three points of connection you have with the bike. Grips can get worn out or be an improper fit causing arm fatigue, blisters, and soreness in the neck and shoulders after long rides. We recommend lock-on grips for the ease of maintenance and slip resistance. As a rule of thumb, riders with smaller hands should look for skinnier grips while riders with bigger hands should go for wide grips. 

ORIGIN8 PRO PULSION LOCKING GRIPS  ($10)

Durable and cost effective grips for when your handlebars need a revamp.  

Pedals

Pedals  are another significant contact point which is often overlooked. High-end bikes are sold without pedals to encourage riders to select platforms or clip-ins best suited to their personal riding style. Bikes sold with pedals are often equipped with platforms to accommodate test-rides. Stock pedals tend to lack the durability or functionality of aftermarket pedals. Choosing whether to go with clipless or platforms is really a matter of personal taste. We have guides that swear by both.  

CRANKBROTHERS STAMP 2 (about $80)

Optimized for performance with a minimal profile and 8mm adjustable pins to keep your foot in place through the roughest terrain. 

CRANKBROTHERS MALLET DH SUPERBRUNI EDITION ($170)

Another excellent option from CrankBrothers, these clipless pedals shed mud and maintain stability with customizable float and release angles. 

Tires

It cannot be emphasized enough how important quality tires are to the feel of your ride, after all, they are your only point of connection with the ground. Tires are without doubt the highest value upgrade to attain maximum performance from your bike. A few suggestions we would make when swapping tires is to go tubeless and go wide. Why tubeless? Tubeless tires provide better traction due to lower tire pressures, reduced weight as you don’t need an inner tube, and way fewer flats.  No matter if you’re a 29er or if you’re more of a 27.5 kinda guy (or gal), there are a variety of options to choose from when swapping rubber. It may be a good time to measure the inner dimensions of your fork and rear triangle (or just stop by your local bike shop) to see if you could fit tires that are a little bit wider in your current frame. For Colorado trails, like the ones on our Singletrack Experience, we prefer tires that are at least 2.3” wide.  Look for the letters “TR” in the title when shopping for new tires. This indicates that the tires are made “Tubeless Ready.” Many rims can be set up using a tubeless conversion kit which includes rim tape, valves, and liquid sealant. Setting up your tubeless is almost as easy as changing out an old tube. There are plenty of YouTube videos out there to help you through the process.  If you’re looking to level-up even more you could look into installing CushCore inserts to add additional protection to your rims and tires. 

MAXXIS MINION DHR/DHF EXO/TR TIRE ($80-$120 for set of 2)

With EXO sidewall protection and aggressive corner lugs, the Maxxis DH combo is what we use to maintain traction on slick Colorado trails. 

ORANGE SEAL TUBELESS CONVERSION KIT ($36)

Comes with everything you need to make to make that swap to a tubeless system.  

CUSHCORE (about $150)

A padding system for the inside of your rims reducing impact by 50% while increasing sidewall stability with 35% more support to help you dig in to those hairpin turns just a little bit more. 

Brakes

Most mountain bikes on the market these days will come with disk brakes. Upgrading your brakes and rotors can be a low cost option for squeezing a little more performance out of your bike this year. One tip for checking the quality of your current system is to look at the rotor (the shiny disk next to the wheel) to see if it says “Resin Pads Only.” If you see this stamped on the rotor, it means you can upgrade your rotors to be compatible with sintered metal pads to increase brake performance and durability. New brake levers and calipers can be a high value upgrade to give your bike that high-end feel you’re looking for this season. Even if you have these components, a solid brake bleed and tune-up can do wonders- rejuvenating your current setup. 

SHIMANO MT420 CALIPER & MT 4100 LEVER SET (about $200 for set)

With powerful 4-piston performance, these brakes are reliable in the worst conditions. Compatible with resin and metal pads. 

SHIMANO SLX SM-RT66 ROTOR ($30 each)

These affordable rotors are compatible with metal pads and come in a variety of sizes. 

1x Drivetrain

All high-end mountain bikes, like the Full Carbon Trek Fuels we use on our Adventure Multi Day Tour,  are equipped with a 1x drivetrain system, and there’s a good reason for it. A 1X drivetrain or sometimes called a “one-by,” refers to a single chainring up front (where the pedals are) and any number of gears on the rear cassette. A 1x drivetrain offers a majority of the qualities found in a 2x or 3x system in a lighter, simpler package. A smaller chainring near the bottom bracket could give your bike the extra clearance you need to overcome that intimidating obstacle. A clutch rear derailleur maintains proper chain tension so that the chain doesn’t rattle off on rocky terrain or aggressive climbs. The simplicity of a 1x drivetrain offers the value of having less mechanical issues, ensuring confidence on the trail while requiring less maintenance between rides. If you’re a tech-nerd like us, you may want to consider installing an oval chainring as a part of the upgrade to give your bike a little more torque during technical climbs. 

SRAM NX GROUPSET ($375)

All you need to make the 1X12 conversion. The NX offers the best of SRAM’s engineering and design at an entry-level price.  

ABSOLUTEBLACK RACE FACE OVAL CHAINRING ($85)

Oval chainrings optimize pedal strokes while boosting traction during technical climbs. The narrow-wide tooth design keeps you from dropping the chain over the roughest terrain. 

Dropper Seatpost

Talk to any Enduro rider and they will tell you that the invention of the dropper seatpost is the bee’s knees. It’s kinda one of those things where you don’t think you need it until you try it. Approaching an obstacle such as the ones on our Adventure Multi Day Tour, without your seat in the appropriate position can add additional challenges to your ride. A dropper seatpost allows you to adjust your seat height on the go with the push of a button (or lever). This way you can quickly get in the most efficient pedaling position to attack those big climbs or get your seat out of the way, lowering your center of gravity, allowing more stability over tricky terrain. Dropper seatposts are compatible with multiple seat-tube widths. You can measure the inner dimensions of the seat tube or just take it to your local bike shop to get some input about which dropper might be right for you. Aftermarket dropper posts are compatible with internally and externally routed frames. For a little extra cash, you could even get a WIRELESS dropper post and skip the cables altogether.  

KS LEV  (around $200)

Kind Shock has a variety of dropper posts to accommodate for 27.2, 30.9, and 31.6 mm seat tubes. Some droppers are configured for inter routing while others are compatible with externally routed frames. Remember, remotes and cables are sold separately. 

FOX RACING TRANSFER PERFORMANCE SERIES CR (about $300)

A quality option that prides itself on compatibility with a variety of cable configurations. 

MAGURA VYRON eLECT (about $550)

Pamper yourself with cutting edge technology featuring a hassle-free WIRELESS remote system. So cool huh?  

As always, PPBT is your #1 resource for all things cycling related in Colorado Springs. If your bike is looking like it’s due for an overhaul, let us know and we’ll get you fixed up. From basic tune-ups to suspension services, we can do it all at a competitive price. Feel free to stop by or give us a call and we’ll see what we can do to get you ready to hit the trails this season.

The post Best Value Upgrades You Can Make for Your Mountain Bike This Season appeared first on Pikes Peak Bike Tours.

Many sources state that the first motorized bike was built in 1868 in France. Shortly after that, in 1869 a steam powered bike was built in the US. These bikes are the precursor to today’s modern motorcycle. There are many articles online that review the history of these motorized bikes so I won’t go into more details regarding those machines. What we find more interesting is the emergence of today’s modern eBikes.

Where does that power come from

Today’s Electric Bikes (eBikes) are powered by an electric motor that is mounted on either hub  (on one of the wheels), a Hub-Drive eBike or by a motor that is mounted directly between the pedals, a Mid-Drive eBike. The early modern eBikes used the Hub-Drive system, while over the past few years, most new bikes feature the Mid-Drive system. 

Today there are three classes of eBikes – Class 1, Class 2 and you guessed it Class 3.

• Class 1 and Class 3 eBikes are pedal-assist and have maximum speeds of 20 and 28 respectively. 
• Class 2 eBikes, like the Class 1 eBikes have a maximum speed of 20, yet Class 2 eBike are throttle-assisted.

Throttle-assisted eBikes of Class 2 can be ridden with almost no effort – you still have to brake and turn, but you don’t have to pedal. Just hop on, engage the motor and press the throttle and you’re off. So what exactly does pedal-assist mean? We get that question a lot from guests who have never ridden an eBike. Take for example our new Trek Alliant+ 7S – a Class 3 eBike. 

With the motor off, the bike rides exactly like a traditional bike – including the gears. Shift down for going up hills and shift to a higher gear for a flat road. Yet once you engage the motor (you just push a button), each pedal stroke is ‘assisted’ by the motor. How much ‘assist’ is dependent on which mode you select.

 The Alliant+ 7S for example has 4 pedal-assist modes – Eco, Tour, Sport and Turbo. We love the Turbo mode! You probably guessed that as you level up the modes you get more ‘assist’ yet will use the battery faster which will reduce your range. 

What does an eBike cost

Our partner, Trek, makes eBikes that almost parallel their traditional bikes. Their highest end bikes for road, mountain and cross country eBikes will set you back about $13,000. Trek’s entry level ‘town’ bike retails for about $1500. As you can imagine there are many models in between.

Pikes Peak Bike Tours & eBikes

The eBike we have selected for our Garden of the Gods tour and our new Starlight Tour is the Trek Allant+ 7s – a pedal-assist eBike shown above. The Allant+ 7S is equipped with a super powerful Bosch Performance Speed motor, a front suspension fork (yes some of our our roads are bumpy), disc brakes, integrated front and rear lights and a wealth of thoughtful design details make this electric bike the perfect solution for our Garden of the Gods and Starlight Tours. 

Do I really need an eBike?

Both of these rides are hilly – with the Starlight Tour gaining over 2000 feet in a few miles. Most of our guests come from lower elevations and for many to ride up 2000 feet may not be the most enjoyable endeavor. The Allant+ 7S takes most of the work out of the ride – providing the rider with an excellent opportunity to experience our breathtaking views. If you want to ride up 2000 ft without engaging the motor – good luck we will see you on our way down.

Aren’t eBikes just for people who can’t ride a ‘real’ bike?

Absolutely not! This is a HUGE misconception. If you have never ridden an eBike, we highly recommend hopping on one and riding it around our parking lot or at your local bike shop. I bet you will say something like “Oh wow! I can really feel the boost. This IS fun”. We get similar reactions from our guests once they get on one of our eBikes. After riding on one of our eBike tours, we often hear from guests as they return home and buy an eBike. 

Conclusion

We are inspired by the creative kids who build their own motorized bikes and want everyone to experience the thrill of riding a powered bike – albeit on a safer more comfortable ride. Voted American’s #1 park by Trip Advisor, Garden of the Gods is a must see on your trip to Colorado. Join us on a memorable eBike tour of this unique park. We highly recommend planning your trip around a full moon to experience a unique ride on our Starlight Tour. You can always bundle one of our eBike tours with a more traditional bike tour – Bike Pikes Peak or Bike Gold Camp Tour. We also have exciting multi days tours for those who want to experience it all or a Singletrack Experience for mountain bikers!

Contact Pikes Peak Bike Tours at tour@bikepikepikespeak.com or 719-337-5311. 

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PPBT: Why did you choose to ride with PPBT?

Mike: I’ve ridden road rides in Colorado and wanted something that I could not get in Iowa. I felt PPBT could give me that.

Tony: I was looking for a tour company that had outstanding reviews. PPBT had over 350 google reviews with a 4.9 rating. It’s hard to beat that.

Mac: Like Tony, I was looking for a tour company that had outstanding reviews. I saw that PPBT had over 700 reviews on TripAdvisor with nearly all of them being excellent. 

PPBT: As a roadie, why did you want to try Colorado singletrack?

Mike: I typically ride around 2000 road miles a year and I occasionally ride dirt trails in Iowa.  Although I still love the road, I wanted something different that would challenge me and build skills.

Tony: I was a triathlete but have slowed a bit in the past few years.  I also have a group of friends who ride some Georgia singletrack. I’ve ridden with them a few times and enjoyed the rides. Although a bit apprehensive, I wanted to see what Colorado has to offer.

Mac:I love the feeling of hitting the road or trail. Although I don’t track exactly how many miles I ride a year, I estimate it’s about 2500 road miles a year. I do own a hardtail (a front suspension) bike and have ridden the dirt trails in my area. The feeling on the dirt is different as the awareness level has to be higher. I backpack and hike in Colorado and I wanted to experience the trails on a bike.

PPBT: Once you arrive at the shop, what was your first impression of PPBT?

Mike: The first thing I wanted to see was the bike I was going to be riding. We upgraded to the  Full Suspension Carbon Trek Fuel Ex 9.7s. That bike was incredible. 

Tony: As I stated, I was a bit apprehensive before the trip. I called and spoke with our lead guide and was assured that I would be well cared for. Once I arrived at the shop, I felt more comfortable as I could tell it was a well organized operation.

Mac:The shop was cool, kinda trendy and the guides were all super helpful. Yet I’m with Mike, it was all about getting on that Trek for the first time. I loved that bike so much that I ordered one when I got home. 

PPBT: How did the tour start?

Mike: We were given instruction on the operations of the bike, disc braking, adjustments to the front and rear shocks and how to use the dropper post – I had never heard of a dropper post. All of this at the shop. 

Tony: Our first ride was more of a shakeout ride, nothing too challenging yet helped us get a feel of the bikes and the altitude. 

Mac: Yes we started at about 10,000 ft. I was thankful the first ride was more downhill than uphill. 

PPBT: Tell me how you liked the singletrack.

Mike: Once we hit the true singletrack, our guide Morgan was evaluating our technique. He made suggestions on how to attack the features as we rode. Remember my comment about the dropper post – it was a necessity to get the seat out of the way for the flowy downhills. 

Tony: I like riding hills so the second day was a lot of fun for me. There were many opportunities to test our skills on each day. 

Mac: I think I finally put it all together on the last day – butt down, knees and elbows out – let it rip. I absolutely loved the downhill. 

PPBT: How did the Multi Day program change you as a cyclist.

Mike:  The biggest change I have noticed is that I have a lot more confidence now on the bike and have no problem showing up for local singletrack rides now.  The skills I learned from Morgan have opened up a whole new world to me.  I feel like I am a more complete cyclist and am excited to try out my new skills on a  variety of trails.

Tony: Being someone that likes adventure, the Colorado Multi-day Adventure Package seemed like it would be a great fit for my lifestyle.  What I did not expect was how quickly my skills would grow and most importantly the guides had me riding Colorado singletrack in no time.  I learned  to navigate technical trails that I never dreamed would have been possible before doing this program.  I can’t wait to go home and try out my local trails.  

Mac: I can’t wait to get my new full suspension Trek Fuel Ex. I think I have outgrown my local trails. I guess I’ll just have to keep coming back to Colorado.

PPBT: Anything else about the trip that sticks out?

Mike:  Korde, the lead mechanic had the bikes cleaned and tuned every morning, ready for the day’s ride. I felt like I was on a new bike everyday! I look forward to getting back on the dirt!

Tony: Morgan was an incredible guide. He chose a wide variety of trails, all local to Colorado Springs, that suited our ability. Morgan picked routes to progressively build our confidence and skill level. He would hold short training sessions at strategic points during the rides to teach how to conquer rock features, switchbacks, drops, jumps and other obstacles. By the third day, our group was ripping down intermediate and advanced trails with ease. 

Mac: I realize that PPBT has been conducting tours for years but the Multi-day Adventure Package was something new – I think they nailed it. The views were incredible.  Everytime I think about it it brings a smile to my face!

If you are like Mike, Tony and Mac, it’s time for that bacon maple donut and for you to challenge yourself with something different. From the experienced mountain biker to the roadie who wants to discover the exciting singletrack of Colorado, the PPBT Multi-day Adventure Package is the one  for you. Three exhilarating days in the saddle will build your skills while experiencing the dazzling view of the Pikes Peak region. Our BICP certified guides grew up riding these trails and know the most invigorating lines.  Our guides will provide you with all the tools you will need  to ensure you have a safe and thrilling Colorado experience. 

Call 719-337-5311 or email tours@bikepikespeak.com for more details.

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If you are looking for outdoor things to do in Colorado Springs, find enjoyment from guided tour companies such as Pikes Peak Bike Tours. There is nothing more exhilarating than riding the trails and guided paths through one of the most beautiful scenes on the planet.

Guided bike tours help you enjoy the majestic scenery while being informed of significant details about the glorious nature of the area. You will learn about the beautiful land and wildlife while having fun with your family or friends.

We all know how hard it is to get the young kids away from a screen. With your family on a guided bike tour of the areas surrounding Colorado Springs, you can be sure they will love the scenic route while exercising.

A guided bike tour is the perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of today. Take a break from your busy life and enjoy nature. You will find plenty of natural beauty with mountain views, full-city views, as well as forest views. Prepare yourself for an adventure of a lifetime.

Rest assured, your guide is a qualified professional with medical training. Team members go through a rigorous training program, following company guidelines. They are experienced guides who are familiar with the rugged territory. They will help you find those scenic tour stops you may have only heard about.

Pikes Peak Highway

Enjoy seeing Pikes Peak Highway on your tour. This famous landmark provides a glimpse into different ecosystems with plenty of natural wildlife. It also offers a full view of the city.

Garden of the Gods

The Garden of the Gods is an amazing place to visit. You will be in awe of the beautiful landscape as well as the ease of traveling throughout the setting. You will see red rocks, mountains, and abundant wildlife.

Gold Camp Road Tour

The Gold Camp Road Tour offers a journey through nature as well as history. On this adventure, you will find historic tunnels through which you can ride while your tour guide provides details about the wonderful background of the area. Prepare yourself to embrace the various colors and views of majestic forests. It is truly inspiring to see such beauty.

Throughout the areas surrounding Colorado Springs, you can lose yourself in the freedom of a bike ride. Your family will appreciate the time together as they journey through the landscape. Book your tour today with Pikes Peak Bike Tours. Let us guide you through one of the most stunning and highly regarded natural tourist attractions.

The post Our Favorite Scenic Bike Rides in Colorado Springs appeared first on Pikes Peak Bike Tours.

If you haven’t finished your christmas shopping yet, and are having trouble thinking of what to get your mountain-biking-aficionado loved ones, then we have you covered!

Last month we covered our top 10 gifts for mountain bikers under $100, this month we are showcasing our top 10 picks for the mountain bike enthusiast in your life that are over $100. 

Fun fact: these items are in order of increasing prices, and not in order of our favorites.

1. Five Ten Sleuth DLX Mens Mountain Bike Shoe ($100)

Five Ten Sleuth’s DLX Mens Mountain Bike Shoe are dual performance transitional mountain biking shoes. 

These shoes are not light-weight but are also designed to grip pedals. 

They not only provide comfort, but it has a weather-resistant suede on the upper part that in a place like Colorado Springs where the weather can turn on you at any point is very important.

Why do we love this item? 

Riding all day with uncomfortable shoes is one of the worst experiences. These shoes are not only extremely comfortable, but you’re sure to stay on your bike with their pedal grip.

2. Smith Venture MIPS Bike Helmet ($110)

Safety first! 

Smith Venture’s MIPS Bike Helmet offers full protection and safety so you can be sure that your loved one is safe when they’re on the trails.

This helmet provides extra protection with their back-of-head coverage and has low-friction layer slides in all directions thare 10-15mm long this helps reduce rotational motion to the brain and head during a fall.

Why do we love this item?

As a bike tour company in Colorado Springs, safety is always our main concern.

MIPS is a brain protection system — engineered to add protection to helmets

The MIPS Brain Protection System (BPS) is found inside the helmet, generally between the comfort padding and the EPS (a high-quality foam used to reduce energy).

For certain impacts, the MIPS BPS can reduce harmful forces transmitted to the brain.

3. Bontrager Ion Comp R/Flare R City Bike Light Set ($114.99)

Sticking with safety, a powerful light set will keep you seen and safe on your ride.

However, not all lights effectively do their job. The Ion Comp R is designed with great range, focus and flash so you can feel safe knowing you’re seeing from far away. 

The Ion Comp R also provides illumination to your rear as well as the front. So you’re covered no matter from what direction someone is looking at you. Lastly, no need to worry about batteries, the Ion Comp R is USB-rechargeable.

Why do we love this item?

As we’ve said, safety is always our number one priority. 

The Ion Comp R offers us peace of mind and can easily be installed onto your bike. It also has a double-click on switch to help us be able to easily turn on and off your light. This eliminates accidental wear out of the battery.

4. CushCore PRO Set ($149)

If your loved one is always pushing for the hardest and most thrill seeking ride, then the CushCore Pro is a great present!

Not just a flat tire protector, the CushCore PRO set’s foam inserts reduce vibration of the bars and stabilizes the tire against rolling and can help cut corners at high speed. 

Featuring 2 inserts and 2 valves, the CushCore PRO set is a suspension system to enhance your bike and provide a smoother ride at faster speeds.

Why do we love this item?

The CushCore Pro helps your tire perform better in cornering, protects the rim from large impacts allowing you to run lower psi, and works as a run flat if needed.

5. Bontrager Avert Mountain Bike Rain Jacket ($169.99)

Whether it’s work or riding the trails, this extra lightweight rain jacket is perfect to keep you dry from the rain.

Bontrager Avert’s Mountain Bike Rain Jacket is perfect to pack for any ride and easily stores itself in its own pocket. 

This jacket is perfect for any mountain biking enthusiast as its hood easily adjusts over the helmet. In fact, it has a boal dial to firmly keep it in place on top of your helmet.

Why do we love this item?

On top of it being lightweight (which we love, no need for extra weight!), this jacket folds in on itself!

The right pocket acts as a pouch for you to roll the jacket into when the rain has stopped. No worries of getting everything in your backpack wet. Just roll this jacket up, zip it, and stow it away for another rainy day.

6. Osprey Syncro 20 ($200)

There’s nothing more frustrating than feeling your backpack and belongings get jostled around while trying to enjoy a ride.

The Osprey Syncro 20 allows you to bring everything you need on a ride while taking the weight off of your shoulders. 

How do they do this? Well the Syncro 20’s shoulder straps are shaped like wings to comfortably fit the natural curve that your body makes when your hands are placed on your handlebars. 

Don’t want to take off your backpack with a pool of sweat underneath you? The Syncro 20 also has a tensioned mesh AirSpeed back panel that provides ventilation so you can feel comfortable.

Why do we love this item?

This is the ultimate all day or guide pack. 

When you’re riding all day long it’s important to take all the things you might need. This pack has plenty of room for layers gear, first aid kit, and water. It also comes with its own waterproof covering to keep your gear dry in bad weather. For a long bike ride you’ll need to stay hydrated and this pack has a 2.5 liter water capacity, all the water you need for a 30+ mile trek into the backcountry. All while keeping your gear from bouncing around on your back.

7. QUARQ SHOCKWIZ ($329)

No matter what skill level of mountain biker you’re purchasing this for, the ShockWiz is perfect for any and all terrains and/or unique rider styles. 

An automated suspension tuning device the ShockWiz uses an intuitive smartphone app to provide tuning recommendations, air pressure, compression and more. 

The app automatically records suspension performance on every ride you take. It then analyzes the data and shows you adjustments that will help have a smoother ride on whichever trail you’re on.

Why do we love this item?

We love that this is an easy to use tool no matter what level rider you are. The shock wiz helps mitigate the hassle of you trying to figure out how to get your shocks feeling just the way you want. 

8. Dropper Seatpost ($329.99)

Some people love the descent and some love the climb. For those who love the climb, descent, or both, the Dropper Seatpost is the perfect gift.

The Line Elite Dropper requires 20% less saddle force and has length options ranging from 100mm to 170 mm ensuring compatibility for any ride.

Plus a 30 day money back guarantee, means there’s no risk!

Why do we love this item?

Not every ride has a shuttle to the top. This dropper seatpost makes biking easier and allows you to get to the top of the trail easily.

9. Rooftop tent ($900)

Have a loved one that is the definition of “adventure junkie?”

We’re talking, drive into the woods for days at a time and find a rugged trail to explore on their mountain bike. Someone who just wants to get away from their daily life and get lost with their mountain bike. During these adventures they have to have somewhere to sleep, which is why they need this rooftop tent!

Lightweight and designed to fit most any vehicle and rack system, the Raptor Series Tent has a large living area with built-in pockets and places to hang gear. 

Keep your loved one protected from the elements while they enjoy all their favorite camping spots and views.

Why do we love this item?

This rooftop tent is lightweight and consists of a simple and affordable design — as far as rooftop tents go. For those who love adventure and getting away from the chaos of everyday lives, this tent offers protection while still showcasing panoramic views.

10. Garmin fēnix 6X – Pro Solar Edition ($999)

Who doesn’t love a good watch? And even more so when it has the capabilities to do so many things!

Whether it’s music, hydration tracking, heart rate tracking or maps this watch is perfect for everything from any mountain bike adventure to the traditional daily life events. 

However, for those mountain bike enthusiasts, in particular, the MTB (mountain biking) dynamics is one of the coolest features this watch has to offer. The Garmin Fenix 6X tracks your trail rate difficulty, how smoothly you rode, and even gives you a score to challenge you next time.

What’s even better? This watch is a solar charging watch meaning you can take it on the trails and not worry it will die. In fact, you can get up to 24 days of life!

Why do we love this item?

The Garmin Fenix 6x is the “does everything” watch. It is literally for anything outdoors. 

One of our favorite parts of the X line is it allows the user to have multiple map layers at a time to include customized and 3rd party maps. This is great for scouting those uncommon-rugged-rough-ridden trails or the areas that lack defined trail systems.

Of course, one of the many reasons we love this watch is it’s solar charged. Meaning if you’re stranded or forgot to charge your watch no harm no foul mother nature will take care of that for you. 

We personally love being able to navigate while having real time feedback of our performance as athletes. We can even watch our vo2 and heart rate to ensure we’re not burning ourselves out!

Mountain Bike Lessons in Colorado Springs

If you’re buying a gift for someone who maybe still needs advice or tips on mountain biking, then our mountain bike lessons in Colorado Springs are the perfect gift!

We offer two personal mountain biking training lessons depending on the level of experience of the rider. Whether they’re a newbie or more experienced rider trying to hone their skills we have something for everyone.

Create a memorable experience and even join in and make it a group experience, contact us today!

The post Top 10 Christmas Gifts for Mountain Bikers – Over $100 appeared first on Pikes Peak Bike Tours.

As much as we all love the holidays, it’s too often a very stressful experience as we scour the internet and stores for presents.

Start wrapping up your christmas presents early this year with our top 10 best gifts for mountain bike enthusiasts that are ALL under $100!

Please note, these items are in order of increasing price.

Mechanix Wear Gloves

Whether your loved one is a beginner or advanced mountain biker, they should always have a nice pair of gloves. Our personal favorite is the Mechanix Wear Gloves. 

Tested for over 25 years, these gloves have a smooth surface thumb and index finger that allow for the perfect mix of dexterity and durability. 

As a plus these gloves are built with a carbon-infused touchscreen capable, synthetic leather  and breathable TrekDry®. Making them the perfect glove for those who are on the go.

Why do we love this item?

At the affordable price of $15 the Mechanix Wear Gloves are tough to beat, not only for the value, but for the durability as well. 

If you’re looking to give someone gloves that will keep them warm during the colder days here in Colorado Springs while still allowing optimal dexterity, then these are the gloves they’ve been looking for.

DART Tool

If your loved one uses tubeless tires, then the DART Tool ($25) is perfect for them. 

Are you sitting there thinking well “what are tubeless tires?” We’ve got you covered. Tubeless tires were supposed to be the “cure” for flats and though they have significantly reduced the number of flats that occur, that doesn’t mean that flats don’t happen. 

The DART tool plugs holes by instantly sealing flat to prevent the tear or puncture from becoming a bigger problem.

Why do we love this item?

The last thing anyone wants when they’re out enjoying any mountain bike ride is a flat. 

The DART Tool solves punctures and tears in tires that will not seal back up by conforming to the puncture and bonding it with sealant. Thus, eliminating needing to put a tube in. Not only does it make your life simpler, but it’s also easily stored!

Ultra Light Camp Chair 

Not every ride has to be a sprint. Sometimes part of the adventure is enjoying where you end up. For these moments the Ultra Light Camp Chair ($35) is perfect. 

Weighing only 2.3 pounds (so light that it could be picked up with a finger!) this camp chair is perfect to pack for a day full of riding. 

Now, don’t think that because this chair is light it’s not durable, in fact, it can hold up 250 lbs!

Why do we love this item?

A perfect chair to relax on during not only biking, but any activity. It compares well to other chairs that cost upwards to $100. 

A good, comfortable chair is always a good thing to have in the mountains.

Fatty Stripper The Works Set

As we mentioned above, tubeless tires have seen an increase in popularity in recent years to avoid flats, but how do you convert your fat wheels to tubeless?

Our next top gift for mountain bikers is Fatty Stripper’s “The Works Set”. This is an easy, lightweight and reliable way to convert your wheels to tubeless tires!

For $38, this set contains everything you need to convert your fat tires to tubeless tires:

• 2 pairs of FattyStripper RimStrips
• 1 pair of tubeless valves
• 1 pair of 3M BlingStrips

Why do we love this item?

Of all of the tools we’ve used, the Fatty Stripper The Works Set is the easiest most reliable way to convert any fat bike to tubeless. Plus, for $38 it’s hard to come by something better!

Bontrager Pro Multi-Tool

For any beginner or experienced biker, having the ability to make road or trail side adjustments and fixes is incredibly important.

The Bontrager Pro Multi-Tool ($42.99) has 15 integrated tools packed in a slim and easy-to-carry design. Tools inside the Bontrager include an array of hex, torx, spoke, screwdrivers and more. 

Why do we love this item?

Our favorite part about this tool is it’s size. When someone is out mountain biking, the last thing they want is a heavy overfilled bag. This tool is not only small but extremely functional. Everyone should have one in the bag.

Be at ease of mind knowing your loved one is safe and get them back on the road with the Bontrager Pro Multi-Tool!

Crankbrothers Stamp 1

Something many mountain bikers may not consider, especially when they’re starting out is the quality of their pedals. 

The Crank Brothers Stamp Pedals ($49.99) are pro-level concave platform pedals that offer 2 different sizes to better fit on the individual rider’s foot. 

These pedals also have 10 adjustable pins per side so that the rider is able to further customize it for their personal feel and grip liking. 

Why do we love this item?

Our team at Pikes Peak Bike Tours always takes the time to fit each of our riders with the right bike height, gear, etc. in order to personalize the trip as much as possible, which is why we believe that the more customized your gear is the better experience you’ll have. 

These pedals are not only customizable they’re also incredibly grippy, reliable, durable. All the things that we look for in a great pedal.

Dynaplug Racer

Another great option for flats is the Dynaplug Racer ($51).

Unlike the DART Tool that uses a sealant to bond to the tire, the Dynaplug Racer is more of a “conventional plug” with two different sides to insert into the tire to close up the plug. On one side the Dynaplug Racer has a fat plug and a smaller plug on the other end. This ensures that no matter the issue they can cover it. 

Why do we love this?

The Dynaplug Racer is a US made product and helps you fix a puncture in just a few minutes! Not only is the Dynaplug racer simple to use, but it also easily fits in a jersey pocket.

Chuckbucket Handlebar Snack Bag

Who doesn’t need a good snack while they ride? We know we do!

The Chuckbucket Handler Snack Bag ($55) is made from random colored fabric, webbing, and hook loop. All bags are guaranteed to be ONE OF A KIND! 

One of the best features on these bags is their accessibility. They have a structured bucket top to keep the bags open and if you need it closed it’s easy to do with one hand.

Why do we love this item?

Though these bags may be made from different fabric scraps, they’re quality fabric and materials. These bags are hand sewn in Colorado and fit 10+ candy bars – what more could you want out of a bag?

Osprey Savu Fanny Pack

Does your loved one or friend hate taking a backpack with them? For the mountain biker minimalist the Osprey Savu Fanny Pack ($55) is the perfect holiday gift!

This fanny pack holds two water bottles and makes pulling out a water bottle convenient so there’s need to stop to stay hydrated.

Don’t need two water bottles? No problem, the water bottle sleeve can be tucked away for an even more minimal look. 

The main compartment on the fanny pack is also very sleek and can fit fixing tools such as a plug or multi-tool mentioned above, snacks, keys and more.

Why do we love it?

We love giving and receiving gifts that have more than one purpose and the best part about this fanny pack is its versatility. Going on a hike? This fanny pack can fit all of the things you’d want. 

Plus, despite its sleek and small appearance it can actually fit quite a bit. Some members of our team at Pikes Peak Bike Tours have fit an emergency rain jacket, a long sleeve as well as a small first aid kit!

DAKINE Session 8L Backpack 

A great bag for riders of all levels and skills, the DAKINE Session 8L Backpack ($89.95) is perfect to carry all the essentials for any ride. 

Whether it’s an intense ride or a thrill seeking downhill ride, this backpack has any rider covered. Fill it up to max capacity and this backpack holds enough water for cross-country rides or leave room and it will be perfect for a lighter ride.

Not only does this backpack allow for up to 8 liters of water it’s also hands-free drinking so there’s no need to stop to hydrate. 

Why do we love this item?

We love to be prepared for any situation and this backpack offers the room and comfort to bring everything needed. 

The organizers inside offer up space for essentials such as plugs, tools, extra tubes, first aid kits, and more. While the air mesh traps allow us to not sweat through all of our clothes on those hot days here in Colorado Springs.

Mountain Bike Tours in Colorado Springs

Do you have a family member or friend who is just starting to show interest in mountain biking and wants to see what it’s all about or who is visiting and/or lives in Colorado Springs? 

Purchase an experience — A mountain biking lesson or tour at Pikes Peak Bike Tours in Colorado Springs!

We have personal mountain bike training lessons depending on the level of experience of the rider. Or have fun with the whole family on one of our four tours featuring different iconic locations in Colorado Springs. 

Contact us today to schedule a tour!

The post The 10 Best Gifts for Mountain Bikers Under $100 For Christmas appeared first on Pikes Peak Bike Tours.