239 cyclists embraced cold conditions and challenging trails during Solon’s winter bike race.
Cyclists braved the cold and flurries near Lake Macbride State Park on Saturday, Feb. 8 for the Lake Macbride Fat Tire Classic, an annual bike event bringing cyclists from across the state to Solon.
Presented by Sugar Bottom Bikes and The Solon Centennial Lions Club, cyclists rode either a 15- or 30-mile path around the lake, tackling a mix of terrains on mountain bikes with extra-wide tires built for the challenge.
Nathan Kullbom, manager of Sugar Bottom Bikes and event organizer, stood at the finish line outside Lake Macbride Golf Club, tracking cyclists’ finishing times.
“The course is unique. It uses all sorts of terrain,” Kullbom said. “We’re on grass, gravel, hiking trails, snowmobile trails, deer trails — just a wide mix.”
In addition to the mixed terrain, Kullbom said the 30-mile route featured around 2,300 feet of climbing elevation gain.