No matter who you are or where you come from, I guarantee wheels are a daily part of your life. So at some level it could be said that, by association, you have an inherent appreciation for the bicycle. Possibly one of the most exquisite exploitations of this simple machine - having been described as “our most noble invention”. “The bike is simply circles turning circles”. Both quotes from one of my favorite mountain bike movies of all time, “Life Cycles”. And it’s certainly true… from an engineering standpoint the wheel is one of the most simple but efficient machines ever discovered.
Personally I’m very grateful to live during this time in history where the virtues of “the wheel” allow incredible conveniences and recreational opportunities in our daily lives. Whether it’s a simple means to a destination, a thrilling opportunity for flight, or a chosen tool for a mountainous adventure, the bike is undeniably amazing in its many shapes, colors, and forms.
Occupying some of my earliest childhood memories, along with some of my greatest achievements as an adult, I have to admit my personal identity is very much associated with this incredible tool for adventure.
Two wheels have taken me coast to coast, North and South, and even overseas in the pursuit of the next challenge, the next competition, and new adventure. Come to think of it… The amount of hours, blood, sweat, and tears my bike has absorbed over the years is astonishing.
The trails I’ve followed, the mountains I’ve intimately come to know, and the communities I’ve become an integral cog within, have fostered a passion for life that I’m not sure I’d have otherwise. It has dictated my career path, my friends, and my values… It’s who I am in many ways.
The bike also holds a huge part of the identity for the town of Steamboat Springs. After much personal travel and exploration I have to say you’d be hard pressed to find a town with more dedication to two wheels than this. In a way it has been a perfect match for me. I can only hope it might be just that for you too. Welcome to Bike Town USA!