What is a fat bike?

Fat bikes aren’t all that different from the mountain bikes you may have seen or sat on in the past. Both are meant for riding off-road; the main difference is fat bikes are built to fit much larger tires.

How large you ask? Well, they generally measure 3.8–4.8” in width, though some surpass 5” and even 6”. More than twice the width of regular bicycle tires, they can be run at very low pressure on soft, slippery surfaces like snow, mud and sand. They’re also great at absorbing punishment from rocks, roots, and other bumps along the trail, often rendering suspension forks redundant.

Like standard bicycles, fat bike frames are made from sturdy materials like aluminum, carbon, steel and titanium. They come in folding models and electric-assist versions, too. 

The frame you choose depends on the type of riding you’d like to do. In most cases, aluminum and steel frames are perfectly suitable for entry-level pursuits, commuting, and all sorts of recreational riding. Lightweight carbon and titanium models are popular among competitive racers and endurance athletes.

Beyond the frame, fat bikes are built around two main wheel sizes — either 26” or 27.5”. These numbers refer to the wheel’s diameter. The 26” wheel size has been around longer and provides access to more tire types and treads. The 26” wheel size also provides a lower center of gravity, as well as compatibility with the highest-volume tires for maximum floatation over snow.

On the other hand, 27.5” wheels continue to grow in popularity. They often feel more agile when navigating tight turns and tricky terrain. They also roll over large obstacles more easily and do a better job at maintaining momentum. Because fat bikes can feel heavy and slow in difficult conditions, momentum is an important factor to consider. 

When it’s time to identify the right set of wheels, rims, and tires for your riding goals, local bike shops like Angry Catifish, Now Bikes and Freewheel Bike are a valuable asset. They know what gear you need to make fat biking more comfortable in any season. 

Here are a few accessories you might consider as you spend more time on the trail in winter weather:

• Digital tire gauge for dialing in the right pressure for your riding conditions
• Lights, because it gets dark earlier around here
• Wool base layers to wick sweat and hard-shell outer layers to block wind
• Quality boots, gloves, and eye protection
• Racks and bags for hauling snacks, fresh clothes, and more

Why should I try fat biking?

Shod in tires like snowshoes, a Fat Bike is an invitation to fully experience winter. It changes the way you look at landscapes. It’s your ticket to take any trail and roll over any obstacle. Whether your ride is fast, slow, scenic, or through a familiar shortcut, fat biking makes every route feel new.

In other words, fat biking isn't just fun. It feels like freedom. 

Where can I rent fat bikes?

A great place to try out bikes and ask related questions is at your local bicycle shop. Not all shops advertise online, so it’s a good idea to contact shops in your area to ask if they stock Fat Bikes and whether customers can rent them.

Riders around the Twin Cities may want to start with Angry Catfish or Tangletown Bike Shop in Minneapolis, or Tonka Cycle & Ski in Hopkins. 

What are the best places for fat biking in Minnesota?

Sometimes the best place to ride a fat bike is the closest place where you can do so safely. Other times, nothing less than a multi-day North Shore excursion will do.

Whether you’re looking for groomed and manicured snow close to home or a new trail in a far-flung corner of the state, we’ve got you covered. Here are some of the best places for fat biking in Minnesota.

MINNEAPOLIS-ST. PAUL

Theodore Wirth Park 

The Loppet Foundation and Minnesota Off Road Cyclists manage and maintain several top-quality trails for riders of varying skill levels at Theodore Wirth Park. Forest scenery and views of the Minneapolis skyline provide the backdrop to some of the region’s best single track.

Minnesota River Trail 

Known as the River Bottoms among locals, the Minnesota River Trail runs parallel to the river and through its floodplain for 11 woodsy miles. Never the same trail twice, this twisting single track paradise serves up rocks, roots, sand, logs, legendary water crossings, and a truly singular experience with nature.

Gateway State Trail 

Located on a former rail line, the Gateway State Trail winds through St. Paul’s urban neighborhoods and natural features, providing picturesque views along a dozen miles of level, multi-use plowed path. Several additional miles of unmaintained trail are also available for fat biking.

NORTHERN MINNESOTA 

Cuyuna County State Recreation Area

Forty miles of groomed at trails await beginner, intermediate and advanced riders at Cuyuna, ensuring fat bikers of all stripes and sizes can enjoy the recreation area’s spectacular views.

Mission Creek 

Your mission, if you choose to accept it: Head to the woods west of Duluth and experience the epic scenery of Mission Creek. Feast on 20 miles of twisty single track for a fun, fast-flowing ride loaded with features like rollers, berms and bridges.

Jay Cooke State Park 

Situated along a gorgeous stretch of the St. Louis River, JCSP serves up 5.4 miles of dedicated fat  bike trails. Criss-cross area creeks and roll past a pioneer cemetery in quiet solitude. Take care on unstable terrain, as icy conditions are common.

SOUTHERN MINNESOTA

Douglas State Trail 

Forest and rolling fields await as you pedal through a scenic stretch of rich agricultural land situated between Pine Island and Rochester. The 12.5-mile paved blacktop trail provides stable and predictable terrain.

Richard J Dorer State Forest

The Bronk Unit Plowline Trail runs along the ridge between Stockton Valley and the Mississippi River for 6.5 miles. Several scenic overlooks make this trail truly special.

Sechler Park River Bottoms Trail 

Roll along the Cannon River in Northfield and soak up the woodsy river bottoms as you run through a looping 3.5-mile trail. Stop by the skills park and see what tricks your fat bike can do!

Got any other fat biking tips for the winter?

Fat biking happens on wide meaty tires that make you feel invincible. But nobody is invincible when they’re stuck in the cold wearing clothes soaked in sweat. Because fat biking in winter can be slow, sluggish, and a hard workout, you’re going to generate heat as you ride. It’s important to pay attention to your effort level, wear appropriate layers — especially around your hands and feet — and be prepared for extreme temperatures.

You also want to make sure you’re wearing bright, reflective colors and outfitted with basic blinking lights if you’re riding in the dark. If your route includes more than the occasional patch of ice, you may want to consider adding studded tires to your fat bike.

And to ensure your water remains drinkable in freezing temperatures, store it upside-down in your bottle cage. This way, any ice will form at the bottom of the bottle instead of up near the mouthpiece.

Does Minnesota have any fat biking festivals?

You’re sure to find a friend wherever there’s a crowd of fat bikes. Cram even more fun into your calendar with these killer winter fat biking events happening all around Minnesota.

Make sure to also mark December 7 on your calendar; that's Global Fat Bike Day! 

• Fat Bike Nights, Wed-Thu at 6-9 p.m., Theo Wirth Park
• Norpine Fat Bike Classic, Jan. 10-12, North Shore
• St Croix 40 Winter Ultra, Jan. 11-12, Hinckley
• Fat Vasa, Jan. 12, Mora
• Low-pet Law-pet Challenge, Jan. 12, Theo Wirth Park
• Icykel Fat Bike Race, Jan. 18, Cuyuna
• Mora Winter Triathlon, Jan. 26, Mora
• Arrowhead 135 Ultra, Jan. 27-29, International Falls
• Fat Bike Loppet, Feb. 2, Theo Wirth Park

Find more things to do in Minnesota this winter.