We’ve been having unseasonably warm temperatures here on the east coast so far this winter (sorry Colorado bikers) and that’s meant a crazy long mountain bike season that still hasn’t ended. Here in North Carolina today it’s supposed to be in the mid-70s and New York City had it’s first November and December without snow since 1877. Not to worry, I’m told this isn’t global warming, just el Nino and an unusual jet stream pattern.
Anyway, it turns out lots of people who had planned on going skiing this winter are opting for mountain bikes instead. Instead of cancelling reservations in ski areas like New Hampshire many riders are hitting the (snowless) cross-country ski trails on bikes instead of skis.
I guess mountain biking is a good substitute for skiing since both involve hurtling yourself down mountains and trails at high speeds. It’s interesting to note, however, that only about 50% of singletracks.com users report downhill skiing/snowboarding as a hobby. Of course this probably depends on where you live; if you live in Florida you don’t have as many opportunities for snow sports and you can ride your bike year round.
So if you’re heading to the mountains for a little winter vacation, consider packing your mountain bike – studded tires optional.
