Early timing was the recipe for success in segment 6 at Addison Oaks. Even with the early runs, everyone was treated to a challenging mix of snow and ice in both the double and single track portions of the lap. Those waiting until the weekend to get their times in were then treated to crossing the “frozen lake” that formed during the significant mid-week weather changes. Nevertheless, we had over 200 attempts during the week in what’s always been a popular location for fat bikes. Thanks again to the groomers and snowshoers who have helped maintain the trails here.
Now onto segment #7.. Two words come to mind for this one – “Good luck”. Gone are the elegant, plush and corduroy-groomed trails that you might have hoped and longed for. Gone are any nice sets of flowing, hard-packed trails that make you smile, confirming your love of fat biking and how great it is. Gone is the fun you have with your friends on fat bikes, basking in the chilled sun, taking selfies, loving every minute of the ride. Instead, this segment will have you questioning why you signed up for the Fat Bike Challenge in the first place. It will have you questioning your desire for the Cold Stone cake. Is it really worth it? Is this dangling carrot of culinary and magical dairy still something you will hold dear? Should you just mail it in and give up?
Hell no, you shouldn’t give up! This is the segment that you get out there and prove your worth. It’s Bald Mountain North this week. You’re not getting fancy or even proper trails – you’re getting a crude and primitive walkway chopped up by walkers with poles and boots with spikes who make the trail a gauntlet of potholes and misery. You’re going out there to ride alongside dogs who are never on leashes. You’re going out there to blaze through soft snow that virtually no one has even ridden yet. 3.8″ minimum tire width? How about a 6″ tire inside that frame of yours – that’s what you’ll be asking yourself. Studs? Maybe, if the ice hasn’t melted into a pool of water, soaking your gear as you go cannon-balling though it. Are you up for this? You better be. This is where the cake is earned. Why? Why not. This one isn’t about fun. It’s about digging deep to get it done. Will you?
Good luck!
BTW, this segment is sponsored by Stein’s Home Improvement. Don’t blame him. He’s a great builder and worth a call if you have any custom build projects you’re looking to have done. 🙂
