Cykel, a mountain bike shop in Ironton, has been giving riders some tips on how to navigate the winter season on fat tire bikes.

Fat tire bikes can be seen as mountain bikes with snowshoes. They make traveling easier for a winter commute, and the thickness of the tires can take a rider through snowy, icy, or mucky conditions.

For bike riding, there are two distinct seasons. In the summer, there is mountain biking, which has wider tires, but once you hit winter, you will be on tires double that size, which requires a fat bike.

“Up here specifically, you do have to a fat bike to ride on the trails, just because of the flotation you get on the snow,” says Matt Postier, Cykel’s custom mechanic. “I know in the [Twin] Cities where you can get away riding a pretty wide summer-style tire, but up here you do need a completely different bike.”

What material each bike frame is made from can make a big difference when picking a fat bike. Carbon fiber bikes are super lightweight, while aluminum bikes are less expensive but a little heavier. Depending on how much you go fat tire biking, you want to make sure you have the right weight that fits your body.

Cykel also suggests not to overdress, because fat biking can be a workout and a bit sweaty. You can start with a long-sleeve shirt as the base and then have more lightweight layers to peel off. Some riding around in 0-to-negative-10-degree weather may opt to only wear a long sleeve, sweatshirt, and a wind blocker.

As for trails in the area, Cuyuna Mountain trails are safe and well taken care of. Multiple volunteers keep them clear of brush and debris on a daily basis.

For those interested in bike rentals, Cykel in Ironton has plenty to choose from. They are closed on Wednesdays but are open Mondays, Tuesdasy, Thursdays, and Fridays from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. On Saturdays they open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Sundays they are open from noon to 6 p.m.

By — Hanky Hazelton