You can't blame me for not trying. If you don't ask, people won't take notice.
I got to thinking that it would be pretty cool if they included pegger bikes in some of the events at the second Winter Mountain Games in Vail. They've got mountain bike, snowshoe, nordic, climbing, and dog events....why not peggers?
Upon checking the official rules, nothing was mentioned about actually having tires on the bike. They just talked about spikes and stuff.
The only event I wanted to enter was the dual slalom course. The criterion looked too aerobic and I'm too old and wise for the best bike trick.
Rather than just show up and be told "no", I sent off an email to Adam Lueck of the Vail Valley Foundation.
I got a nice reply today but it wasn't the answer I was hoping for. Adam said the "original intent of the event is for regular mountain bikes". Apparently skibikes weren't even on his radar. He loves the Lenz Sport bikes but they aren't allowed.
If you now read the official rules for the Games, there's a new addition as of this morning. "Skibikes are not allowed. You have to have actual tires for this one!".
Okay, well maybe next year. If enough of us ask about it, maybe they'll have pegger events in the future.
Peggers are wintertime downhill mountain biking. And one thing is for sure, snow is softer than dirt and rocks.
I made an easy $50 tip Monday afternoon teaching two guys from Dallas that were wearing Gold Passes. Lots of lessons coming from Texans lately. All downhillers or dirt bikers.
This video shows the highlights of last year's Best Trick event. I think skis would work just fine on these bikes.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.Google
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
2013 Sipapu Skibike Rally this weekend
This small ski resort in New Mexico is hosting a rally this weekend. A number of manufacturers will be there with their bikes and having free demos. Skibobs and peggers are welcome.
Participants will need a lift ticket. Registered rally participants can get them at a discounted rate. Adults/Teens are $25 and Seniors are $15.
The American Skibike Association is having a number of planned activities. Kids can race on the Strider bikes in the afternoon. Adults can participate in the group Moonlight ride.
Lodging is incredibly reasonable at the resort. Buy a full price lift ticket and they throw in the room for free.
Learn more about Sipapu Ski Resort at http://www.sipapunm.com/
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.Google
Participants will need a lift ticket. Registered rally participants can get them at a discounted rate. Adults/Teens are $25 and Seniors are $15.
The American Skibike Association is having a number of planned activities. Kids can race on the Strider bikes in the afternoon. Adults can participate in the group Moonlight ride.
Lodging is incredibly reasonable at the resort. Buy a full price lift ticket and they throw in the room for free.
Learn more about Sipapu Ski Resort at http://www.sipapunm.com/
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.Google
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
A necessary tool if you own a Lenz Sport
The skis on my bike needed some serious maintenance. The edges had a ton of burrs and the bases were looking really dried out. Some nice base gouges too.
I don't think they've had any work done on them since the bike hit the rental rack back in November. Now that I own it - I'm maintaining it.
To do any work, I needed to get the skis off the bike. I was told (by Devin) to get a T handle allen wrench but that was about it. I asked what size - and he thought it was a 5mm size.
First off, I took a trip to the local hardware store and bought a allen wrench set. Seems they only sell them in sets these days. The 6" handle turned out to be too short to loosen all the bolts to the skis. 5mm was the right size however.
I went to Lowe's and a number of auto part stores to find a single 5mm T handle with a length of around 9 inches (that's what Devin keeps in the West Portal Rentals tune shop at Winter Park Resort). No luck at all in finding one at a bricks and mortar store..
After an internet search, I found JB Tool Sales. They had just what I was looking for and it was cheaper than anything on eBay. They take PayPal too.
The 5mm T handle allen wrenches I ended up buying were the Bondhus 13164 5mm Balldriver T-Handle, and the Bondhus 15764 5mm Balldriver L-Wrench. I bought the L wrench to see if it would be easier to maneuver around the front mounting bracket.
The company fulfilled the order the same day and should be shipped out today. Hopefully they'll take care of the mounting of the skis. There was an instant coupon on the website too. Hey, 29 cents is 29 cents. Ended up costing a total of $12.63 with shipping.
So if you buy a Lenz Sport skibike, you'll need this tool to maintain your skis. More on tuning later.
Update: This company believes in quick shipping. I got them on Friday and used them to remount my skis on Sunday morning. Both worked perfectly. I used a little bit of blue Locktite on the screws. The new coat of blue winter wax on the skis really improved the gliding on the bike too.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
I don't think they've had any work done on them since the bike hit the rental rack back in November. Now that I own it - I'm maintaining it.
To do any work, I needed to get the skis off the bike. I was told (by Devin) to get a T handle allen wrench but that was about it. I asked what size - and he thought it was a 5mm size.
First off, I took a trip to the local hardware store and bought a allen wrench set. Seems they only sell them in sets these days. The 6" handle turned out to be too short to loosen all the bolts to the skis. 5mm was the right size however.
I went to Lowe's and a number of auto part stores to find a single 5mm T handle with a length of around 9 inches (that's what Devin keeps in the West Portal Rentals tune shop at Winter Park Resort). No luck at all in finding one at a bricks and mortar store..
After an internet search, I found JB Tool Sales. They had just what I was looking for and it was cheaper than anything on eBay. They take PayPal too.
The 5mm T handle allen wrenches I ended up buying were the Bondhus 13164 5mm Balldriver T-Handle, and the Bondhus 15764 5mm Balldriver L-Wrench. I bought the L wrench to see if it would be easier to maneuver around the front mounting bracket.
The company fulfilled the order the same day and should be shipped out today. Hopefully they'll take care of the mounting of the skis. There was an instant coupon on the website too. Hey, 29 cents is 29 cents. Ended up costing a total of $12.63 with shipping.
So if you buy a Lenz Sport skibike, you'll need this tool to maintain your skis. More on tuning later.
Update: This company believes in quick shipping. I got them on Friday and used them to remount my skis on Sunday morning. Both worked perfectly. I used a little bit of blue Locktite on the screws. The new coat of blue winter wax on the skis really improved the gliding on the bike too.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Tuesday, January 22, 2013
What to wear skibiking in Colorado?
The gear to wear when on your bike is pretty much the same as when skiing or snowboarding. If you haven't hit the ski slopes before, it's a legitimate question. Those planning on hitting the terrain park may want to wear additional protection too.
The basic list:
Most of the items can be rented at any decent sized ski resort. They can also be found at local second hand stores for reasonable prices.
There are other items that one can use out on the ski slopes. It's a matter of personal preference and cold temperature tolerance. I think a 40 F day is scorching hot. Most people I've met from Louisiana think that's impossibly cold.
Those into freestyle or racing need specialized gear. Racers really just need to get a speed suit and specialized racing waxes.
For terrain park rats, think downhill mountain biking:
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Google
The basic list:
- Snowsport coat - wear a coat that is waterproof and windproof. Snow melts and we can have pretty windy weather in Colorado.
- Snowpants - wear waterproof and windproof pants. Same reason as above.
- Snowboard boots (peg) - most any winter boot will work but these boots provide arch support and ankle support.
- Ski boots (skibob) - for those using foot skis.
- Snowboard socks - don't use cotton socks as your feet will get cold. Only wear one pair.
- Thermal underwear or dry layer - you won't always need them but they are handy on those minus 40 F degree days.
- Balaclava - protect your face from frostbite on those subzero days.
- Helmet - most bikers prefer a full-face helmet to protect their teeth and head. The Giro Remedy is a good model. It comes in summer and winter versions.
- Googles - protect your eyes from the sun and debris.
Most of the items can be rented at any decent sized ski resort. They can also be found at local second hand stores for reasonable prices.
There are other items that one can use out on the ski slopes. It's a matter of personal preference and cold temperature tolerance. I think a 40 F day is scorching hot. Most people I've met from Louisiana think that's impossibly cold.
Those into freestyle or racing need specialized gear. Racers really just need to get a speed suit and specialized racing waxes.
For terrain park rats, think downhill mountain biking:
- Body armor - chest, leg, and arm protection.
- Crotch protection - guys do rack themselves on skibikes.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Google
Thursday, January 17, 2013
What is adaptive skibiking?
What does it mean when ski resorts say adaptive skibike with a permit only?
Simply put, adaptive means those that have a physical or cognitive disability that prevents them from using standardized skiing, snowboarding, or skibiking methods. There are programs around the USA and the world to help get the disabled on the ski slopes.
The National Sports Center for the Disabled in Winter Park, Colorado pioneered adaptive teaching techniques. It now offers instruction in skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and skibiking. Many graduates have gone on to race in the winter Paralympics.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) businesses must make accommodations for those with disabilities. This includes ski resorts.
To get adaptive access to ski resorts that do not allow bikes, one must have a letter from their medical doctor. The letter must state that a bike is the only way one can access the ski resort. Some ski resorts like Vail issue permits that are attached to your skibike frame. The Vail permit is recognized nationally.
There is a sample letter on the Skbike World website that one can use as a template for your medical doctor. Show it to the ski area staff to get your adaptive permit there or gain access to the area.
Learn more about adaptive programs at:
National Sports Center for the Disabled - Winter Park, Colorado
Challenge Aspen - Aspen, Colorado
Adaptive Sports Association - Durango, Colorado
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Google
Simply put, adaptive means those that have a physical or cognitive disability that prevents them from using standardized skiing, snowboarding, or skibiking methods. There are programs around the USA and the world to help get the disabled on the ski slopes.
The National Sports Center for the Disabled in Winter Park, Colorado pioneered adaptive teaching techniques. It now offers instruction in skiing, snowboarding, cross-country skiing, and skibiking. Many graduates have gone on to race in the winter Paralympics.
Under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) businesses must make accommodations for those with disabilities. This includes ski resorts.
To get adaptive access to ski resorts that do not allow bikes, one must have a letter from their medical doctor. The letter must state that a bike is the only way one can access the ski resort. Some ski resorts like Vail issue permits that are attached to your skibike frame. The Vail permit is recognized nationally.
There is a sample letter on the Skbike World website that one can use as a template for your medical doctor. Show it to the ski area staff to get your adaptive permit there or gain access to the area.
Learn more about adaptive programs at:
National Sports Center for the Disabled - Winter Park, Colorado
Challenge Aspen - Aspen, Colorado
Adaptive Sports Association - Durango, Colorado
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Google
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Out of control skibiker at Vail
Or a better title could be....how someone could be contributing to skibiking being banned once again at Vail Ski Resort.
I found this video yesterday on Vimeo. The reporter was anxious to tell about this new activity permitted at Vail but he forgot to do one thing. He never took a lesson to learn how to control it. Like many, he underestimated the need to learn the basics of skibiking.
He did have fun however.
Before taking off on a bike at Vail or anyplace else, do yourself a favor and take a lesson. You'll be in control and present a more positive image of the sport. Like it or not, people will judge the sport on how well you present it. Eyes will be watching you at all times.
The reporter struggled throughout his broadcast to keep the bike speed in check. His main method of speed control was by dragging his feet in the snow. Doing the 'Fred Flintstone' only works at slow speed. I cannot sign off on licenses for students who can only use this method for stopping. It's not safe.
The better methods for speed control are either skidded traverses or skidded turns. You should never have to "just kinda have to point it and hope for the best" as stated in the video.
Knowing the proper stance would help too. He intermittently tries to ride it as a skibob and as a pegger. He wasn't wearing foot-skis which probably would have helped him alot as he was sitting down for the most part. He could have then used them to stop like a skier.
Knowing the basic riding rules at Vail or any other ski resort is a necessary fact. According to the video, Vail Daily "On the Hill' correspondent John LaConte borrowed a person's skibike and then took off down the hill. Worse yet, it's a conversion kit bike - those are banned at Vail.
Mr. LaConte also failed to wear his leash which is required by Vail Resorts. You can see it just swinging around underneath the bike in the video - unused. I'm not a big fan of leashes but I don't want to see access taken away at Vail.
I've had some open honest dialogue with John, pointed out a few of his errors, and let him know I'm glad he had fun. He's invited me to do a morning broadcast at Vail and offer the basics of safe skibiking and why manufactured skibikes are the safer option. I've accepted and will have to work out a date.
If you skibike at Vail, don't follow the example set in this video. Take a lesson and know how to slow down, stop, where to safely stop, and use a leash.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
I found this video yesterday on Vimeo. The reporter was anxious to tell about this new activity permitted at Vail but he forgot to do one thing. He never took a lesson to learn how to control it. Like many, he underestimated the need to learn the basics of skibiking.
He did have fun however.
Before taking off on a bike at Vail or anyplace else, do yourself a favor and take a lesson. You'll be in control and present a more positive image of the sport. Like it or not, people will judge the sport on how well you present it. Eyes will be watching you at all times.
The reporter struggled throughout his broadcast to keep the bike speed in check. His main method of speed control was by dragging his feet in the snow. Doing the 'Fred Flintstone' only works at slow speed. I cannot sign off on licenses for students who can only use this method for stopping. It's not safe.
The better methods for speed control are either skidded traverses or skidded turns. You should never have to "just kinda have to point it and hope for the best" as stated in the video.
Knowing the proper stance would help too. He intermittently tries to ride it as a skibob and as a pegger. He wasn't wearing foot-skis which probably would have helped him alot as he was sitting down for the most part. He could have then used them to stop like a skier.
Knowing the basic riding rules at Vail or any other ski resort is a necessary fact. According to the video, Vail Daily "On the Hill' correspondent John LaConte borrowed a person's skibike and then took off down the hill. Worse yet, it's a conversion kit bike - those are banned at Vail.
Mr. LaConte also failed to wear his leash which is required by Vail Resorts. You can see it just swinging around underneath the bike in the video - unused. I'm not a big fan of leashes but I don't want to see access taken away at Vail.
I've had some open honest dialogue with John, pointed out a few of his errors, and let him know I'm glad he had fun. He's invited me to do a morning broadcast at Vail and offer the basics of safe skibiking and why manufactured skibikes are the safer option. I've accepted and will have to work out a date.
If you skibike at Vail, don't follow the example set in this video. Take a lesson and know how to slow down, stop, where to safely stop, and use a leash.
By the way January 19 - 27 is National Safety Awareness Week at National Ski Areas Association (NSAA) member resorts. Know the Responsibility Code and win prizes at participating locations.
- Always stay in control, and be able to stop or avoid other people or objects.
- People ahead of you have the right of way. It is your responsibility to avoid them.
- You must not stop where you obstruct a trail, or are not visible from above.
- Whenever starting downhill or merging into a trail, look uphill and yield to others.
- Always use devices to help prevent runaway equipment.
- Observe all posted signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails and out of closed areas.
- Prior to using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Monday, January 14, 2013
Skibobber takes on the infamous Outhouse and Mary Jane trees
Just for jollies, I've always wanted to try the insane moguls of Outhouse on a skibob. This guy slayed Outhouse and the Mary Jane trees in a few feet of freshies back in 2011. Practically straight-lined it.
Looked like it was fun. Whoever you are, you have my respect.
Now I want a repeat of that powder dump to go try it on my new Lenz Sport Launch.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Looked like it was fun. Whoever you are, you have my respect.
Now I want a repeat of that powder dump to go try it on my new Lenz Sport Launch.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
How to ride a skibob instructional video
The people at Brenter Snowbike put together an excellent video on the basics of learning to ride a skibob. While this doesn't replace a proper lesson, it is a great resource for those exploring this snowsport option.
The video gives good demos on stance, turning and sideslipping to control speed, loading the chairlift, and other safety precautions.
Follow the steps in the video that are pictured in balloons. All the steps are written in English so no worries. No funky Euro-techno music either. Good safety warnings in the video trailer too.
Kudos to the people at Brenter. Great video.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
The video gives good demos on stance, turning and sideslipping to control speed, loading the chairlift, and other safety precautions.
Follow the steps in the video that are pictured in balloons. All the steps are written in English so no worries. No funky Euro-techno music either. Good safety warnings in the video trailer too.
Kudos to the people at Brenter. Great video.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Subzero wax
It was pretty darn cold at Winter Park yesterday. The high temperature was a frosty 4 F (-15C). The cold and the Broncos football game put a serious dent into skier traffic and lessons at the resort. With no work, I decided to go hit the slopes for some personal riding.
I hadn't touched my snowboards all season so I decided to take one for a spin. It didn't spin very hard - it had the wrong wax on the base. Seems everyone had sticky snowboard syndrome or sticky ski base and couldn't move. All-temperature wax just doesn't work around zero degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius.
Rather than strip the base and then apply a subzero winter wax to the snowboard, I switched equipment. The skis on the skibike have less surface area so I thought that might work out better.
I did move better on the skibike but it still would have had better gliding with the proper winter wax. After a few runs I really didn't care. My fingers and face were frozen.
I stopped by mid-morning lineup but only around 7 people decided to take half-day snowboard lessons. A middle-aged gentleman from Houston stopped by the snowboard instructor huddle and started asking about the skibike. As a downhill mountain biker he was fascinated by it.
After all the questions were answered and pictures of the bike taken, we invited him to come take a skibike lesson. He said he would be back the following morning for a lesson and where did he go sign up? It looked liked something he could relate more to than skiing or snowboarding.
As I headed towards the locker room, I saw a ski instructor carrying all her gear. Upon inquiry of current conditions, she stated that she had no idea and had been in Coffee & Tea for the past 1 1/2 hours. Too cold and sticky snow.
So if you every wonder why your skbike isn't gliding properly on the snow, think about the wax that is on the bases of your skis. It could be what is slowing you down.
My solution was to put away my snow gear and head home to watch the football game. I-70 was un-naturally deserted for a Saturday afternoon. After a double overtime - the Broncos lost. Sigh.
This week I'm headed to my secret skibike snowboard wax supplier and picking up a pound of Purl. Made in Colorado for those brutally cold days. http://www.purlwax.com/sub-zero-ski-wax.html
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
I hadn't touched my snowboards all season so I decided to take one for a spin. It didn't spin very hard - it had the wrong wax on the base. Seems everyone had sticky snowboard syndrome or sticky ski base and couldn't move. All-temperature wax just doesn't work around zero degrees Fahrenheit or Celsius.
Rather than strip the base and then apply a subzero winter wax to the snowboard, I switched equipment. The skis on the skibike have less surface area so I thought that might work out better.
I did move better on the skibike but it still would have had better gliding with the proper winter wax. After a few runs I really didn't care. My fingers and face were frozen.
I stopped by mid-morning lineup but only around 7 people decided to take half-day snowboard lessons. A middle-aged gentleman from Houston stopped by the snowboard instructor huddle and started asking about the skibike. As a downhill mountain biker he was fascinated by it.
After all the questions were answered and pictures of the bike taken, we invited him to come take a skibike lesson. He said he would be back the following morning for a lesson and where did he go sign up? It looked liked something he could relate more to than skiing or snowboarding.
As I headed towards the locker room, I saw a ski instructor carrying all her gear. Upon inquiry of current conditions, she stated that she had no idea and had been in Coffee & Tea for the past 1 1/2 hours. Too cold and sticky snow.
So if you every wonder why your skbike isn't gliding properly on the snow, think about the wax that is on the bases of your skis. It could be what is slowing you down.
My solution was to put away my snow gear and head home to watch the football game. I-70 was un-naturally deserted for a Saturday afternoon. After a double overtime - the Broncos lost. Sigh.
This week I'm headed to my secret skibike snowboard wax supplier and picking up a pound of Purl. Made in Colorado for those brutally cold days. http://www.purlwax.com/sub-zero-ski-wax.html
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Friday, January 11, 2013
The best boots for skibiking
The type of skibike one rides often determines the type of boot to wear. Comfort and warmth come after that.
Those who ride skibobs and use foot-skis can choose to use either ski boots or snowboard boots. It's the bindings on the foot skis that determine boot choice.
Foot skis can come with either ski boot bindings mounted on them or snowboard boot bindings. If you ski, you'll probably want to use your own boots. If you have an ankle injury or a snowboarder, you'll probably want to use snowboard boots. Snowboard boots are much more comfortable.
One caution about the less expensive ski binding models found on rental foot-skis, from first-hand experience, they are not compatible with all ski boots. The toe piece of many ski boots just do not mesh with them and the skis will constantly fall off.
Those who ride peg bikes have more options. While any warm weather-proof winter boot will do, the preferred boots for skibiking are snowboard boots. Ski boots don't work at all for peggers.
Snowboard boots provide arch support for your feet and needed ankle support. They are also waterproof, warm, and keep snow away from your feet.
As an experiment last spring, I tried using a pair of Sorels I had just purchased. While I rode around they did keep snow out but I felt they just didn't offer enough ankle support. This translated into less bike control for me. I ride standing up on the pegs - not sitting down on the seat.
Most skibikers I know who ride peggers use snowboard boots. In the end, it's a personal choice.
Whether you ride a skibob or pegger, find the boot type that is comfortable for you.
© 2012 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Those who ride skibobs and use foot-skis can choose to use either ski boots or snowboard boots. It's the bindings on the foot skis that determine boot choice.
Foot skis can come with either ski boot bindings mounted on them or snowboard boot bindings. If you ski, you'll probably want to use your own boots. If you have an ankle injury or a snowboarder, you'll probably want to use snowboard boots. Snowboard boots are much more comfortable.
One caution about the less expensive ski binding models found on rental foot-skis, from first-hand experience, they are not compatible with all ski boots. The toe piece of many ski boots just do not mesh with them and the skis will constantly fall off.
Those who ride peg bikes have more options. While any warm weather-proof winter boot will do, the preferred boots for skibiking are snowboard boots. Ski boots don't work at all for peggers.
Snowboard boots provide arch support for your feet and needed ankle support. They are also waterproof, warm, and keep snow away from your feet.
As an experiment last spring, I tried using a pair of Sorels I had just purchased. While I rode around they did keep snow out but I felt they just didn't offer enough ankle support. This translated into less bike control for me. I ride standing up on the pegs - not sitting down on the seat.
Most skibikers I know who ride peggers use snowboard boots. In the end, it's a personal choice.
Whether you ride a skibob or pegger, find the boot type that is comfortable for you.
© 2012 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Bit the bullet
I finally saved up enough shekels and bought my dream skibike Monday night. I am now the proud owner of a 2012 - 2013 Lenz Sport Launch.
Devin brought up a bunch of new bikes to Winter Park at the beginning of the season and put them in the rental fleet rack. I've had my eye on this bike ever since it appeared. A few other instructors did too.
The bike has a really eye-catching aqua-marine powder coating, an upgraded front and rear shock, and a pair of the new Lenz Sport skis.
I've ridden the bike in lessons and just recreational riding around the resort. It handles like a dream.
The bike has also been thoroughly Biscuit-tested and approved. Now that I own the bike, I don't have to worry about Biscuit taking it between morning and afternoon lessons - it now sports a new lock.
One unique feature about the bike is the powder coating. Devin tried out a new powder coater for his frames and a few new colors. There's no other frame out there with this particular color.
Now that I have my own bike I can do more long distance traveling. I plan on hitting up Steamboat since my employee pass is good over there and also picking up some Real Deals to go ride Aspen/Snowmass. There's talk of group rides over at Vail Resorts ski areas too.
If you are still dreaming of owning a Lenz Sport, just come up to Winter Park Resort and check out the rental rack. If something catches your eye........ remember, everything is for sale. Call Devin and for the right price you too could go home with one.
© 2012 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Devin brought up a bunch of new bikes to Winter Park at the beginning of the season and put them in the rental fleet rack. I've had my eye on this bike ever since it appeared. A few other instructors did too.
The bike has a really eye-catching aqua-marine powder coating, an upgraded front and rear shock, and a pair of the new Lenz Sport skis.
The bike has also been thoroughly Biscuit-tested and approved. Now that I own the bike, I don't have to worry about Biscuit taking it between morning and afternoon lessons - it now sports a new lock.
Now that I have my own bike I can do more long distance traveling. I plan on hitting up Steamboat since my employee pass is good over there and also picking up some Real Deals to go ride Aspen/Snowmass. There's talk of group rides over at Vail Resorts ski areas too.
If you are still dreaming of owning a Lenz Sport, just come up to Winter Park Resort and check out the rental rack. If something catches your eye........ remember, everything is for sale. Call Devin and for the right price you too could go home with one.
© 2012 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
Friday, January 4, 2013
Brenter snowbike - anyone can ride these
Skip the first 45 seconds of this video (unless you like to see a car driving around) and then sit back and relax. If you like snow - you'll be smiling by the end.
These bikes are not just for adaptive use. They keep a segment of people out on the hill who would otherwise stay away from the ski slopes. Most learn to control one in 4 turns or 20 minutes with no falling.
Blown out knees, bad back, fused ankles, can't wear ski boots, balance issues, weak legs ????? This skibike is for you!! It's been the cure for many people at Winter Park Resort.
While not a freestyle bike, it can carve just like skis. It's fun in powder, trees, around moguls, and just cruising around the ski slopes.
Need first-hand testimony from a person who just couldn't get skiing.... here's a really great article by Kirsty Smith of Parker, Colorado at Ski-biking rekindles passion for the mountains!
And more testimony from Donna Sparkman.
Can't wear ski boots? No problem. They make foot skis that use snowboard boot bindings.
Don't feel left out anymore. No superhuman muscles required.
© 2012 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Google
These bikes are not just for adaptive use. They keep a segment of people out on the hill who would otherwise stay away from the ski slopes. Most learn to control one in 4 turns or 20 minutes with no falling.
Blown out knees, bad back, fused ankles, can't wear ski boots, balance issues, weak legs ????? This skibike is for you!! It's been the cure for many people at Winter Park Resort.
While not a freestyle bike, it can carve just like skis. It's fun in powder, trees, around moguls, and just cruising around the ski slopes.
Need first-hand testimony from a person who just couldn't get skiing.... here's a really great article by Kirsty Smith of Parker, Colorado at Ski-biking rekindles passion for the mountains!
And more testimony from Donna Sparkman.
Can't wear ski boots? No problem. They make foot skis that use snowboard boot bindings.
Don't feel left out anymore. No superhuman muscles required.
© 2012 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content. Google
Uh, yeah,.....do that maintenance thing
Skibike maintenance, it's one of those things that can creep up on everyone. Failure to do it can lead to unplanned events. And that is what happened to me on Monday.
I always try to maintain anything I own. It will last longer that way. During the ski season I regularly check my snowboard bindings for loose screws where the bindings attach to the board and the binding screws.
If you don't own a skibike, it's not always clear what needs to be checked before you go riding. The rental shop guys take care of it, or it my case, the supervisor said not to touch the bikes and he would do all the maintenance.
Ski and bike designs can also be a factor on when to think about checking things and what items. One skibob model in particular needs to have every screw checked before taking it out on the slopes.
Getting back to my own recent disaster, I didn't check the bolts that held the skis to their mount. The new updated skis we're using have different mountings that use shorter bolts. They tend to wiggle loose. No one told me.
In the aftermath of a runaway ski, I'm going to throughly check every skibike I take out in the future. My list will involve looking for loose ski bolts and suspension system connections.
Give your own bike a gander. Think about the parts that take a pounding every time you go out. Now go grab the tool box and check them out.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
I always try to maintain anything I own. It will last longer that way. During the ski season I regularly check my snowboard bindings for loose screws where the bindings attach to the board and the binding screws.
If you don't own a skibike, it's not always clear what needs to be checked before you go riding. The rental shop guys take care of it, or it my case, the supervisor said not to touch the bikes and he would do all the maintenance.
Ski and bike designs can also be a factor on when to think about checking things and what items. One skibob model in particular needs to have every screw checked before taking it out on the slopes.
Getting back to my own recent disaster, I didn't check the bolts that held the skis to their mount. The new updated skis we're using have different mountings that use shorter bolts. They tend to wiggle loose. No one told me.
In the aftermath of a runaway ski, I'm going to throughly check every skibike I take out in the future. My list will involve looking for loose ski bolts and suspension system connections.
Give your own bike a gander. Think about the parts that take a pounding every time you go out. Now go grab the tool box and check them out.
© 2013 G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission from this blog’s author and/or owner is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to G. Kunkel and A Colorado Skibiker Goes Skibiking with appropriate and specific direction to the original content.
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