Hidden along the snowcapped North Shore, the Norpine Fat Bike Classic is gearing up to celebrate the beauty of winter and community in Cook County. The race is set to take place from January 10th-12th, and gives riders the chance to bike along world-class trails as well as connect with fellow bikers. Riders will get to enjoy the scenery and support preservation efforts for the trail. 

As fat biking grows more popular, the Classic is a very unique way to support a good cause and compete in a rewarding sport. When you sign up for the race, you are contributing to funding trail maintenance efforts by the Superior Cycling Association as well as the Norpine Trail Association. Proceeds garnered from the race will ensure that the trails remain groomed and accessible. 

Similar to last year's race, riders have the choice between the 14-mile long Short Pine Course or the 25-mile Long Pine Course (1,000-2,000+ feet of climbing), which both feature diverse and challenging terrain that allows you to explore the beauty of a North Shore winter. Due to the icy conditions this year, studded tires (special tires containing up to hundreds of small metal studs that help grip the ice) will now be required for every rider’s protection. If anyone doesn’t have the right gear, local shops like Spokengear, Sawtooth Outfitters, and Rollin’ Thunder Bike Shop are prepared to assist with rentals and installations. According to the Norpine Facebook Page, organizers are also "sanding the course as they can."

Image: Norpine Fat Bike Classic

 Image: Norpine Fat Bike Classic

The start and finish lines will be located at Cascade Lodge along the shore of Lake Superior. Racers will be awarded with a wide variety of prizes and goodies ranging from local baked goods to a BBQ celebration. Weekend festivities include a dark sky tour, a group bike ride, local food and drinks, fat bike demos, and more. The post-race atmosphere aims to showcase the charm of the North Shore and celebrate the community people who all come together for a common cause. 

A great aspect of the Norpine Fat Bike Classic is that it is open to riders of all skill levels, and while the race itself requires endurance and competition, the atmosphere is supportive. The event is capped at 150 riders, which will allow competitors to enjoy a sense of camaraderie and connection and not focus solely on end performance.  Casey Wystaske, co-director of the 2024 race, told Boreal Community Media at the 2024 Classic that the race has grown in the past few years, with 88 bikers in 2024, 66 finishers in 2023, and 52 in 2022. As of January 4, only 25 spots remained open. Younger participants—meaning those 17 and under—are also welcome to join and will be rewarded with reduced registration fees as well as access to the main perks. 

The event is still in need of volunteers. Learn more: https://volunteersignup.org/CFK4C

To learn more about the Norpine Fat Bike Race or the Superior Cycling Association, visit: https://superiorcycling.org/norpine