Want to get a look at the 2018 Bear Claw Epic course? Need to see how many laps will be enough for you on race day? Join us for a recon ride!
Riders from all over northern Michigan are joining up this Sunday, September 9 for a fun, relaxed look at the 2018 Bear Claw Epic course. With just a few weeks to go before race day, it’s the perfect time to put in a lap or two and see what the race will be like. Recon rides help riders of all abilities and skill levels get a feel for the terrain, make decisions about equipment, and identify important sections of trail that could decide their result on 9/22.
For beginners or first-timers, rides like these are perfect opportunities to decide what class to register for. With the new Intermediate category, we have one, two, three, and four-lap options that offer race distances ranging from 7 to 28 miles! There’s bound to be the right length for you, especially if you’re looking to build a little fitness for events like Iceman Cometh a few weeks later in the season.
For the more experienced riders, they’ll be using the ride to make equipment calls before race day. Switching out tires, opting for hardtail or full suspension frames, even playing with the idea of a rigid front fork versus suspension all have come up as questions before BCE every year. While we think this is a rock-solid race for a hardtail, some folks have left very happy they had some travel in the rear, too. The best way to find out is to pre-ride and get a feel for the trail!
There’s a big contingent of riders from the Cadillac Cycling Club, Universal Racing, and other clubs heading to the Pathway this Sunday, September 9 at 11 am. Hop in with any group as they head out, meet some like-minded, bike-minded folks, and join us at Clam Lake Beer Co. after for some post rider refreshment.
Looking for more details? Head over to the Bear Claw Epic site for more details, and remember, your entry fee stays right here on the Pathway to help support our Pavillion, winter grooming, trail maintenance, and more!