On wheels

Remember the joy of riding a bike when you were a child? The freedom…the speed…the fun!! As an adult, cycling is one of the best forms of cardio-vascular (cardio) exercise. Compared to walking or running, cycling is ‘easier’ on your feet and knees. And, there are multiple styles of cycling (bike riding), including road, gravel, and mountain biking. See below for more information on each style.

Cycling can be as easy as riding your current bike on a paved road or one of Colorado’s numerous trail ways. Or, cycling can be as intense as flying down a Colorado mountain trail, bouncing over rocks and carving into a berm to make a quick turn.

There are electric, or E-Bikes, that assist with pedaling, which can be a tremendous benefit to those just starting out or needing a little extra help.

Road

Paved surfaces only, typically road or trail; no suspension

Gravel

Paved, dirt, and gravel surfaces; similar to a road bike, but with frame geometry and tires to support gravel/dirt road riding; little or no suspension

Mountain

All surfaces; completely different frame geometry compared to road and gravel bikes, with front suspension only (“hardtail”) or front and rear (full) suspension. Mountain bikes can be further separated into the following styles:

• Trail

• Cross-Country

• Enduro

• Downhill

• Dirt jump

• Fat bikes