4 Things to Know about Fat Biking in Minnesota

Thinking about fat tire biking this winter? Here are some tips for fat tire biking in Minnesota. Fat biking is a niche winter sport that’s starting to gain some serious traction! However, new fat bike cyclists should keep in mind a few standard practice trail etiquette rules before venturing onto the trails this winter – because our winter trails are meant for everyone and making sure that they are well maintained keeps them fresh for everyone else hoping to use them.

So, let’s go over some ways to practice responsible fat biking!

1.    Ride on firm snow

Fresh snow is great for snowboarding and skiing, but it could mean trail damage for fat bikes. Other forms of recreation, such as cross-country skiing, need to have smoothly groomed trails and the rut left from fat bike tires in fresh snow could ruin their experience – and it’s also harder to operate a fat bike when it is sinking too far into the snow to run in a straight line.

A good rule of thumb is to make sure that the tires leave less than one inch of rut while riding, so check for that before heading out!

2.    Use the right equipment with the right specifications

Fat biking works best with an actual fat tire bike that can stay on top of the snow, if that wasn’t obvious. The tires should have a width of at least 3.7” with 10 psi (pounds per square inch) which can be most accurately checked by using a tire pressure gauge.

Rental fat bikes are available at Giants Ridge and at other retailers in the area as well!

3.    Common courtesy and etiquette

Running into other trail users is common, and when fat bikers meet skiers and other trail users, they should yield to them – as fat bikes have brakes and skiers, by most accounts, do not. Make sure to also stop and look around tight corners, and to utilize the right side of the trail when riding to help avoid any collisions.

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4.    Be kind to our trails

It should go without saying, but taking care of our area trails is quite a task and is in many cases performed by volunteers from clubs and organizations that want everyone to enjoy them. Make sure to help keep trails fresh and beautiful this winter by not leaving trash during the ride, keep a lookout for any potential hazards and let others know about it if able!

Fat biking is a unique experience and is just so very Minnesotan! Those who have never tried it should take the time to explore our trails this winter. From our lift-served trails at Giants Ridge, to the sprawling climbs and descents of Redhead MTB Park, and to the many other trails throughout the Mesabi Iron Range there are miles of winter adventure to be had.