Tag Archive 'cycling'

Aug 31 2010

Profile Image of Keith Rejino
Keith Rejino

SoCal MTB Racing - Elings Park

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[youtube:82DzpLZ547I?fs=1;[link:Elings Park SoCal Mountain Bike Racing_Dreamscape Images];http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82DzpLZ547I?fs=1&feature=related]The pale gray sky reminded me of the east coast, not the beautiful horizon of Santa Barbara. Some local hikers trekked up the path and I asked what happened to the California weather. They reminded me it was June glum; the weather condition occurring mostly in June when the fog rolls into the California coastline to paint a dreary scenery.

Today, the beneficiaries of June glum were the Cat 3 riders at the Elings Park mountain bike race. The cool weather was sure to keep dehydration problems to a minimum. For the late Cat 1 starters, that was not the case as the sun pierced the morning fog by midday.

The Elings Park mountain bike event is one of the largest in the area and sure to remind people that Santa Barbara is one of the premier places in California to take a trip with the family. With its lush green hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it’s a good idea to bring a camera along for the memories.

To capture some speed in motion, I decided to bring out the video camera today. With its mix of single track trails and fire roads on a multi-lap course with plenty twist and turns, there would be many opportunities to capture some good footage.

With the hills on this course, a solid warm-up is mandatory. Shortly after the start of the race…you are going vertical. The race is made up of fire roads and single track trails, which climb to the top of Elings Park before descending. During the second lap near the beginning, the course turns off from the first lap trail and tackles plenty of winding trails and U-Turns to the top.

After capturing some video and still images, I found an excellent shooting position on the second lap ascent. The day was going as planned. So far, I had not fallen down any hills with my camera gear. Later in the day, I realized the day was still young.

The Cat 1 and 2 riders looked strong as the sun welcomed the riders with high 70 degree temperatures. My goal today was to capture these mountain bikers at close range so I climbed the hills surrounding the course to find the best angle and the heart beat of this race. After slipping down a few hills, I managed to create some serious ventilation in my clothing - an eight inch rip in my jeans from the crotch down the pant leg. Thankfully, anyone coming my way only cared about one thing going fast.

The MTB racers were given a splendid view of the Pacific Ocean once they climb to the top of the course. However, with the winding trails, the view was short lived.

Deep in some bushes with the winding, single track trail looping around me, I managed to find a good shooting point where I could capture the MTB competitors riding the twisting trail in front of me.

After capturing a few riders and satisfied I got the footage necessary, I managed to checkout my surroundings. It was at that moment that I realized one of the disadvantages of being in the zone. There I stood with an eight inch tear down my pant leg surrounded by poison ivy! The Elings Park mountain bike race will always hold a special memory for me. It reminded me that I too have to watch the path in front of me.

If you are looking for a great race to take the family for a few days, the Elings Park mountain bike race is one of the best. Put together by Team Big Bear, the race is sure to challenge your mountain bike fitness level.

Staying on the trail is highly recommended.

Keith Rejino is a sports photographer for Dreamscape Images, a personal trainer, triathlete and MTB rider. His Socal Mountain Bike website provides mountain bike event coverage, training and sports nutrition tips for the mountain biker. For more mountain bike event coverage, check out Dreamscape Images MTB site.

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Aug 19 2010

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Johnny Ratcliffe

Choosing The Best Turbo Trainer For You This Winter

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If you struggle to stay fit and trim in the off season, then using a turbo trainer may be the answer!

The turbo trainer clamps your rear wheel into a roller which (either magnetic or wind) provides the resistance to help you train like you would on the road.

Get fit this winter with a turbo trainer:

* Set up your turbo trainer in the garage and escape the cold and wet weather

* If you have suffered an injury, such as a broken collarbone you can use the static bike to help ease back into your training

* If you need to train on your sprinting, then the turbo trainer can help you by providing massive resistance for building your sprinting muscles

* Why not get a few people together and make winter turbo training a fun team sport. If you get a load of buddies together you can help each other push harder, train better and why not club together and hire a hall with a large music system!

Turbo training can be boring, so it’s important to know this before you spend a months wages on the best you can - you need to understand that your body will hurt during the first few sessions, this means many people use them a few times and then stop.

You need to see if you enjoy turbo training before you spend a vast amount of money on one - so restrict spending to around 100/$150. There is no need to spend a massive amount of money if you are starting out - wait until you know you really enjoy using a trainer first.

If you really enjoy it - then the next level takes you into adjustment, readouts (showing power output, calories burned etc).

Top end turbo trainers have virtual reality features and you can plug them into your computer and race in virtual reality - some of the better models from Tacx even allow you to race people in other countries live!

Johnny Ratcliffe is a semi-pro racing cyclist from the United Kingdom and trains extensively on turbo trainers all fall. His site Turbo Trainer has more information, and you can purchase by visiting: Best Turbo Trainers

categories: training,turbo training,cycling,mountain biking,road racing,cycling,bikes,exercise,fitness,health

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Aug 07 2010

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Valery Smith

A Few Tips On Getting A Road Bike In Melbourne

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For those who covet active lifestyles, road bikes make the perfect accessories. For those interested in cheap and casual commuting and training for triathlons, these type of bikes are great. Certain things should be considered, however, for people who are interested in buying a road bike in Melbourne.

Road bicycles also serve important purposes for their users. They can be a inexpensive and highly efficient forms of transportation as they require only a little maintenance. They’re also ideal for athletes who are training thanks to their multiple gear modes and sturdy builds.

Most bike hobbyists faced with the decision of buying a new road bike often debate on whether or not to go with a previously owned one. With road bicycles, most people will tell you that purchasing a new one is the preferred option. Although there are some excellent used bicycles available, many will still cost a lot. That, paired with the warranties that bike stores often throw in, it’s generally best to go with a new bike.

Before a quest for the perfect bicycle can take place, you should first decide upon the make and model of road bike that will fit your specific needs. How you intend to use the new device should help determine the type you buy. The materials it is constructed from will make a big difference also.

To begin your bicycle search, check out local bike shops and online websites and ads. Good road bikes can be quite expensive so it is important that you look around and get the best deal possible. Many specialty shops will throw in warranties and free tune ups as well so make sure and keep your eyes peeled for these special offers.

When you look at potential bicycles in person, the best thing you can accomplish is getting a fit. Ask an experienced salesperson or manager measure your dimensions in the shop. Every make of road bike is inconsistent so picking the wrong one for your body type can end with damaged shoulders or a sore neck.

Finally, before making your final decision, be sure to have an idea of your budget in mind. A road bike can range in price from five thousand dollars down to one hundred. You’ll be less likely to have a salesman pressure you into purchasing something you can’t afford if you know how much you can spend beforehand. That being said, never do business with a salesman or store that uses force as a sales method.

In conclusion, road bikes can be wonderful investments whether you just enjoy riding a bike to work or are looking to train seriously for an event. Before you get one, be sure and do your research and find out which type of bike will work best for your needs. Whether it is aluminum or steel, the type of material a bike is made of is a big decision too. Be sure to stay on budget and get fitted for your bike by a trusted professional and soon you’ll have a trusted bike that should last you a number of years.

Find fabulous prices on bicycles for sale Melbourne by searching online. Find the many types of giant road bike choices you have. Head online today and learn more.

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Aug 06 2010

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Kim Archer

The Gear You Need For Mountain Biking

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Many people enjoy the hobby of biking in the mountains because it is an adventurous activity that also provides a lot of excitement. In addition, it is something that can be quite physically challenging and even draining for those who engage in vigorous rides. The most important aspects for enjoying positive outings is having a high quality mountain bike and the right bike gear along with you for the ride.

While many people spend a great deal of time and money to get a really good mountain bike, some do tend to overlook the importance of the bicycle gear that should be taken along with you.

There is a large selection of different bike accessories that you can choose from to have with you on your biking adventures. Those that should be on the priority list of things to include for an outing are the items that will keep your bike running in top condition on the trails. Most mountain bikers will agree that a tube kit should be the first item of bike gear you pack when preparing to hit the trails.

It is also very wise to include a small set of tools that are just the right size for making minor adjustments to the bike while you are out on the trails. Having a set of Allen wrenches, a crescent wrench, screwdrivers and other tools specific for your bike are basic items that should be in every bike kit.

Lighting is important as well. You should always include reflectors on the spokes, a lighted reflector on the back of your bike, and a powerful light on the front of your bike to illuminate the trail or road after dark.

If you will be riding in intense heat, you’ll need to find ways to keep cool. You should choose clothing that helps perspiration to evaporate quickly so it doesn’t cling to your body and keep you feeling hot. Another good choice is an evaporative cooling vest, which is made from special fabric that, when wet, absorbs heat from the body and releases it.

Each of these bike gear accessories are important to a safe ride and they should not be left out when you are getting ready to go on your mountainous cycling routes. Another accessory that many mountain bikers feel is essential is a high quality bike seat that can increase not only your comfort but your safety as well.

Click here to learn more about cooling vests that will keep you comfortable out on the trail.

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Jul 12 2010

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Valery Smith

The Best Time - Buying Bikes In Melbourne Now

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There is a lot to explore while Australia. With so many different types of terrain, there is a need for different ways to get around. This is especially true when considering bike riding. Buying bikes in Melbourne can be a real treat. There is a lot of hilly terrain and the best type of bike would be BMX. If that is not your style, then Melbourne offers plenty of places to ride around in the city also. Choosing a bike can be difficult, because there are so many options to choose from.

With so many different bikes to choose from, some buyers can get confused. It doesn’t take much information to know what you should get. With a few tips, you should be able to do just fine.

Know what you want. When you go without prior research, it can be very difficult to select what you want. One of the best resources to go to are the people that work in the bike shop. They probably love biking and can offer a lot of advice. Just remember, the advice is free, the bike isn’t.

You can also research on the internet. Understand the basics of bike riding. There are different bikes for every kind of terrain. If you like to go off road then a BMX is the ticket. If you like speed, then a racing bike would be for you. Decide what kind of bike riding experience you want, then research that are of riding.

Knowing what bike you want means know what terrain you will be riding on. If you know Australia, then you know that there are several opportunities for adventure. Plan ahead about what parts of the city you would like to visit. If you plan a route, then you will know which bike to get. If your route leads you over rough roads, then make sure that your bike can handle it.

When you choose your bike, remember to take it out for a test before you buy it. This is the only real way to know if you and the bike are suited for one another. The bike shops should be OK with you taking a test ride. If you find that you are having trouble with the bike, then you should not get it. The ride should be easy, and smooth. If it has been some time since you last rode, then also take that into consideration. After a few minutes, you should be able to go full speed again.

When you buy a bike without assembly, then it could be a long day of trying to put it together. See if the shop offers this service. That way you know the bike is sturdy and you won’t be constantly second guessing your work. It might cost a little bit extra, but it will be completely worth it. If you miss one bolt or screw, then you could be headed for an injury. Speaking of injury, while you are looking for a bike, also take a look at some of their protective gear. A helmet may look ridiculous, but it is a few extra layers that keep your head from meeting the ground.

Buying bikes in Melbourne can be truly, very easy. Bike riding is one of the healthiest activities around. It should be stress free, and fun, while also really good exercise. Once you have found your bike, checked it for safety, and put on your helmet and other protective gear, then you are ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Find great prices on Melbourne Bikes by shopping online. There you will find many choices for a Bike Shop Melbourne and other locations too. Head online today and get more.

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May 30 2010

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Jason Iamin

The Best Mountain Bikes Must Have The Following

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Finding the best mountain bike isn’t as hard as you may think, but there are some things to look at that will help you to make a better educated decision. While not comprehensive, the following six points should be considered when looking for the best mountain bike.

Best Mountain Bike Six Points: 1. Price 2. Frame 3. Brakes 4. Shifters 5. Tires 6. Size/Fit

Price: There are mountain bikes that can cost you $4,000 to $5,000 for a top of the line bike with all the bells and whistles. For one of the best mountain bikes ridden competitively you can expect to pay upwards of $10,000. Have a price in mind when you decide to start looking for a new mountain bike. If you are willing to spend between $400 and $800 you can get a really good mountain bike. If you don’t have at least that much then you can always go and get a cheapo from your local big chain store. The problem with this is that for the most part you will be changing parts rather quickly and the cost of that cheap mountain bike is no longer cheap.

Frame: It would suffice it to say that the best mountain bikes have the best frames. With today’s technology you can expect the frame to last a long time. They are light weight and very durable. Most of the frames you will find are made out of aluminum but there are some that are carbon fiber. For the sake of this article and your price range lets assume you will be getting the aluminum frame. One consideration would be whether to get a hardtail or not. The hardtail frame has no rear suspension. This will make for a very rigid mountain bike and is better suited for more flat ground riding. if you are going to be getting aggressive on the trails you may want to opt for a full suspension bike that will help absorb impact of a rough terrain.

Brakes: Disk brakes are found on most of the best mountain bikes. You will still find that some people prefer the rim brakes because they are lightweight. The problem is that the rim brakes don’t perform very well in wet weather. If I has a choice I would always opt for the disk brakes.

To read the rest of the article please checkout my site at The Best Mountain Bikes and take a look at our picks for the best mountain bikes and their prices. My favorite is the Diamondback Mountain Bike but the Smith and Wesson is a close second.

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May 29 2010

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Keith Rejino

California Golden State Mountain Bike Championship In Fontana

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Beads of sweat poured down my face as I trekked up the sloped hill looking for the best photo shoot location. I was back shooting sports again after my short sabbatical. Today’s photo shoot was at the California Golden State Championship mountain bike event in Fontana, CA on May 15th.

The cross country mountain bikers flying down the rocky trail on the multi-lap course I’d seen before, or at least, most of them. Today, I preferred to shoot the MTB riders looking good on the downhill portion of the course. A race volunteer advised that most of the mountain bikers were walking up the tough uphill portion.

This was the third race in a four event series put on by SRC and major sponsor Kenda. With the Fontana sun blaring down, it was a reminder that the next SRC summer event in August would be more challenging for these mountain bike riders.

The multi-lap course was a mixture of rolling fire roads and single track trails with one major climb and descent. Near the top of the course on the big downhill section, the mountain bikers navigated an almost 90 degree turn before shooting down the rocky fire trail. Many of the MTB riders smiled for the camera, but after the first few laps, most had no energy for a pose.

David Santos captured 1st place in the XC mountain bike race in 1:29:07 with 2nd and 3rd place going to Griffith Vertican and Garnet Vertican in 1:34:07 and 1:41:05, respectively. For the women’s race, Heather Rose took 1st place and a fourth overall finish against the men in 1:53:12.

For the women’s downhill competition, Gabriela Williams captured 1st with Kelly Damschen taking 2nd place. In the men’s division, David Klaassen VanOorschot was the fastest of the day with Rich Houseman and Ryan Egusquiza picking up the 2nd and 3rd place slots.

Heather Rose, the women’s XC mountain bike winner, captured another victory in the women’s Super D. The men’s division leaders were Ryan Equsquiza in 1st followed by Eric Bierman in 2nd place.

For Mountain Bike Information, check out Keith Rejino’s website at Dreamscape Images mountain bike website for mental training tip, mtb news and sport nutrition guidelines.

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Apr 09 2010

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Dan Goulski

Bike Accessories: 5 Gadgets for the Road

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Whether you ride competitively or just for enjoyment, we all seem to love gadgets on our bicycles. Some items offer extra convenience and some a bike rider should not be without. Here are our top 5 bicycling gadgets.

The extra items you put on your bicycle will depend on how you ride your bike. Are you a hard-core rider, going on trails for hours at a time? Or do you just ride for an hour here and there at a leisurely pace?

1. Bike rack

If you want to explore different locations, you’ll need some way to get your bike there besides riding it. Your bike rack needs to be able to carry more than one bike especially if you ride with family. For competitors, you can bring a spare bike for practice or in case of problems. What you are looking for is one that secures the bikes without too much wiggling of the wheels or handlebars. If you choose a rack that sits on top of your car remember the increased height when going under overpasses or through tunnels.

2. Bike computer

Some may think this is excessive, but it really is a handy tool to have if you want to track how far you have ridden. A bike computer can keep track of speed, mileage, elapsed time of the trip, and clock time, among other things. Some computers are more sophisticated than others and track more things.

3. Water Bottle

This comes as a standard on many bicycles today, but if you don’t have one, you need to add it. The first time you take a long drink after a hard ride, you’ll be happy you added it.

4. Pedal Clips

Clips are very useful for keeping your feel from slipping off the pedals. It may seem that this makes it more difficult to stop, especially to a new bike rider, because you have to take your feet out of the clips before putting them down. But in reality, pedal clips make it easier on your feet.

5. Bicycle Panniers

These are bicycle bags that attach to the bike. They are much better than carrying stuff in a backpack because they leave the rider free to concentrate on the ride instead of worrying about the bag shifting and making the rider unbalanced. You can put all kinds of handy things in them such as your phone, a first aid kit, a tool kit for unforeseen repairs, food, and a jacket (you never know when a storm will come up suddenly). Having all this gear on the bike itself allows the rider to just enjoy the ride.

Dan Goulski knows the importance of biking gadgets, such as the cycling water bottle. That’s why he created a site all about it, called http://www.cyclingwaterbottle.org.

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Dec 29 2009

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Damian Papworth

A New Way Of Exploring The Outdoors: Mountain Biking

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There’s always some new sport brewing, whether it’s something more extreme that somehow makes its way to the mainstream, like skateboarding and rollerblading, or something so weird that not many people are ever going to take it up, like kiteboarding or skydiving. And most sports that have been created have something to do with invention and innovation, where there’s a need for a new use for an area, or an object.

A growing number of alternative sports for independent-minded people of all ages have been succeeding lately in The States, but nothing is doing quite as well as mountain biking, which has managed to carve out a niche previously only seen for skateboarders, who transformed from weirdos to mainstream. With a variety of different styles and methods, mountain biking is quickly sweeping the nation.

Rather than simply riding a bicycle across town, or even riding one around a track, mountain biking freed the bicycle from its pavement environment. Now, riding a bicycle was more about balance, since mountain trails had to be dealt with. Different riders, in urban areas, even put their own twist on things and figured out ways to make city riding challenging, taking to natural obstacles in much the same way that skateboarders did.

But more than that, there are different types of mountain biking, some of which spend time on more manicured surfaces, some who go all out and head to the middle of nowhere, and others where the riding is more built on creating one’s own type of style and implementing it, but in the dirt instead of out on the street.

The best way to get to know mountain biking is by getting to know the different categories of riding. There’s trails, where bicyclists can be either in a more urban area or off-road, but the main goal of hopping over different objects without placing feet on the ground. It looks a little bit like those courses with jumps and hills, but is a little more extreme.

Next, there’s dirt jumping, one of the other newer variations of the sport, which involves launching bicycles and riders off of man-made or naturally occurring jumps, where the object is to complete a series of tricks before landing on the ground. The protective gear for this is usually more extreme, and riders usually have a great deal of practice before heading into this style of riding.

Since not everyone has access to mountain trails or even large urban parks, a popular style for those living in cities, especially teenagers, is known as urban or street riding. The only gear needed here is a bicycle, usually one with a smaller frame and smaller wheels that is lighter to carry. Riders go out alone or in groups, and like skateboarders who used to figure out how to ride railings and sidewalks, do very much the same thing with their bicycles. Balance and creativity is a huge component to this style of riding.

The best jumping off point for most riders is simple cross-country, which can encompass any number of different environments, terrains, and conditions. A cross-country mountain bike ride can be a simple affair, with lots of break time to enjoy the weather, or it can be more strenuous and involve a great deal of attempting to ride uphill, to navigate slippery or muddy areas, or having to jump around obstacles.

There are also newer, more intense takes on previously existing forms of mountain biking seen as more professional and challenging. One, known as short cross or speed cross, pits riders against a very short, very challenging trail. Usually, there are a great deal more obstacles, and the trail is a lot thinner. This is not a good starting point, and is recommended for experts only.

No matter the style, there’s no mistaking how helpful this sport can be to building a connection for the young and the old alike with taking their sporting endeavors outside. Like many sports of innovation, mountain biking and all of its new forms is truly here to stay.

Damian Papworth adores the thrill of mountain biking, but always ensures he takes his bike water bottles for his trips. A cycling water bottle is so important to maintaining hydration in this grueling sport.

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Dec 04 2009

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Monique Mertrandes

Find Your Biking Trail on Breckenridge Mountain

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Mountain biking is very popular in Breckenridge. It is a natural consequence of the presence of various kinds of trails that brings the bikers closer to the stunning views of the mountains. And finding a bike is not a problem - there are a lot of hassle-free rental options.

Gains of Biking Breck: The biking season begins in spring, when the bikers can have their fill of colors wherever they look, as flowers start to bloom and the aspen leaves start budding. When summer comes, mild temperatures and the spectacular view of the mountain continue to create the ideal environment for a full day of biking. Lastly, fall brings its unique charm as the colorful aspen trees turn shimmering yellow to confirm that it is truly fall in Colorado.

Totally Friendly Biking: The wide range of terrain and trails is another major attraction why bikers find their way to Breckenridge. Extreme bikers can get as much challenge as the novice or group riders. For example, taking the Boreas Pass, an undemanding trail that is suitable for biking groups or families, brings bikers to a relaxed and educational trip. Along the way, bikers can stop by and examine the old water tanks or the old rail beds which are part of the historical remains of Breckenridge. Possibly, a trouble-free way to reach Boreas Pass is to leave everything except your bike by the Breckenridge Ice Rink, then embark on the climb to Boreas Pass Road, a wide path that takes riders all the way through the stunning aspen groves.

Gain from Your Pain: For bikers who want to ride to elevated trails, Breckenridge can provide those for them. They can try riding eleven miles to the highest part of Hoosier Pass, which is at the southern end of Breckenridge. The experience is a thrill for riders with the stamina to face the challenge. Bikers have the added thrill of sharing switchbacks with motorists as they persevere to reach the top which is over 11,000 feet above sea level. Along the way, the biker is rewarded by the exceptional view and the thought of conquering the top. No doubt, the combined difficulties from biking with motorists and the sharp elevation gain to Hossier Pass are challenges that only experienced bikers should attempt to try.

Mountain Biking: Perhaps, riding a bike is the best way to have a really good look around Breckenridge Ski Resort. Move toward Peak 9, going to the Beaver Run Resort in order to reach the Burro Trail, a perfect ride to forests and other beautiful part of Breckenridge. It is important to know that from Burro Trail, each turn brings visitors to other scenic places in Breckenridge. For instance, going to Spruce Creek Road is a good starting point to go down the mountain or proceed to McCullough Gulch.

Borrowing is Allowed: Going to Breckenridge can be trouble-free. Travelers need not worry about excess baggage since equipment like mountain bikes and their accessories needed for going to the trails are available at the Breckenridge rental shops. And one can rely on the options offered by Breckenridge rentals to find the right vacation homes, condos or townhomes. Visitors can instead spend more time on the trails or at any desired destination.

Mountain biking brings you to the best places in Breckenridge. So, do not wait any longer. Discover more beautiful places in Breckenridge with your bike.

Breckenridge Mountain Biking: A Trail for Everyone

Having lived in Breckenridge nearly all her life, Monique Mertrandes is a true local who loves seeing visitors get the most of their stay. She writes about everything from Breckenridge Lodging Deals to finding bargains on Breckenridge Vacation Homes.

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