Double Ringer with James Morrow
James Morrow here, founder of Iron Hills Cycling in Iron Mountain, MI. I found my love for fat biking somewhat unexpectedly. As the fall comes to a close and many tuck their bikes away for winter hibernation, fat biking communities across the U.S gear up for our favorite time of year! Whether you’ve just heard of fat biking or you’re a seasoned shredder, check out the story and get hype for the upcoming season and all that it holds.
How did I start riding and why am I all in for fat biking?
Well, I always say I was born on a bike while living in Marquette. It’s almost impossible to not get into it there with the amazing trails.
Then I fell in love with the cycling community.
You get to be who you truly are on a bike ( no judgment). Where else can you meet a bunch of strangers and all have that one core connection. It’s just fun.
Finally, the adventures biking had provided for me are unmatched. Even the same route can provide a different experience depending on the weather, time of day, and season.
When the season rolls around, winter is in full force, it gets dark at 4:30 pm and there is snow everywhere. Fat Biking gives you the option to be outside on a bike in conditions that would normally deter people. While the timing of your ride needs to be strategic according to the snow conditions your riding level does not. Typically early morning or nighttime riding is best so the snow stays packed and you don’t risk punching through to the ground. The technical parts of the trail are now packed under hard snow and create a smooth path that anyone can rip on regardless of your riding experience. Fat Biking is the calmest aspect of biking. You can only see the next 10 feet of trail, the snowpacks all the roots and bumps and you get super flowy peaceful riding.
How did you get into Fat Biking?
I entered my first fat bike race, The Polar Roll, six days after buying my first fat bike. After calling ahead, I brought a case of the special edition beer, Double Ringer (When U.P. weather hits hard, Double Ringer hits harder. As bold and bitter as a jump in the lake, and our antidote to long and labored Michigan winters) to the registration table to secure my entry. Fifteen miles of the hard-packed winter wonderland that resembled super gritty dirt started me on the path to fat bike fandom. The next year I returned only to see snow dumped across the trails, resulting in some 200 or more riders pushing their fat bikes through the trail as the snow melted under them. Riders were falling off the trail left and right into the ten feet of fresh powder and being pulled out by others along the way. Thankfully, falling into the snow is one of the best kinds of falls you can have! Every year continues to be a new adventure that doesn’t disappoint at the Polar Roll.
What do you need to get started?
Finding your first fat bike doesn’t have to be anything grand. I bought my first bike refurbished from a local shop and upgraded it over time. If you’re visiting or just want to test the waters of fat biking consider renting a bike from a local shop!
As far as winter gear, some good socks are a necessity and a shell up top to keep the wind off. If you want to stay extra warm there are several brands that offer lightweight waterproof boots with the option to clip into your peddles. Lastly, my favorite part of the fat bike ensemble is what they call Pogies, or handlebar covers! These are made to fit over your handlebars acting as insulators for your hands and optional snack storage to keep you fueled on those moonlit rides!
*For all your upcoming Fat Bike adventures check out the “fat bike” tag in the app!*
