The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic is more than just a race; it's a celebration of the diverse cycling community in Durango, Colorado. This annual event, dating back to 1971, attracts riders from all walks of life, united by their passion for pedaling. What makes this race truly fascinating is the incredible variety of bicycles on display, each with its own unique story and purpose. From the sleek road bikes to the customized tandems, every bike has a tale to tell, reflecting the memories, triumphs, and adventures of its rider. In this article, I'll delve into the stories of three riders and their bikes, exploring the personal connections and the broader cultural significance of cycling in Durango.
One of the standout riders is Joel Bouma, who will be competing in the pro category for the third time. His Factor Ostro Vam road bike is a pure speed machine, designed for going fast. Bouma's love for cycling was instilled in him by his father, and they share a special bond through their shared passion. This bike holds a special place in his heart, and he's excited to ride it in the Iron Horse, where he can experience the joy of cycling with his father and make new memories with friends. The Iron Horse is more than just a race; it's a group ride with hundreds of close friends, all out for the ride.
Another fascinating story is that of the Hartley family, who will be riding a modified Co-Motion tandem bicycle. John Hartley and his 9-year-old daughter, Betty, have been participating in the Iron Horse together for the past five years. This year, Betty will be pedaling for the first time, and the family has customized the bike to make it easier for her to participate. They've mounted special crank adapters, lowered the gear ratio, and added a Bluetooth speaker and distance tracker. Betty is excited to ride with her family, and their team name, "mustard," reflects their speed and camaraderie. The Iron Horse is a casual, fun-filled event where riders can enjoy the ride, eat snacks, and stretch their legs.
Finally, there's the story of Rick Cobb and Lisa Coash, who have been pedaling bikes together for over 40 years. They fell in love over their shared passion for cycling, and the Iron Horse has been a significant part of their lives since moving to Durango in 2019. Cobb and Coash plan to ride their e-mountain bikes, the Trek Fuel EXs, which have allowed them to continue participating in big community rides like the Iron Horse. The e-bikes have extended their riding lives, making it easier on their bodies and allowing them to spend more time on the bike. The Iron Horse is a great example of how cycling can bring people together, build friendships, and create lasting memories.
What makes the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic truly special is the diverse range of bicycles on display, each with its own unique story. From the sleek road bikes to the customized tandems, every bike reflects the memories, triumphs, and adventures of its rider. The Iron Horse is more than just a race; it's a celebration of the cycling community in Durango, where riders from all walks of life come together to share their passion for pedaling. It's a testament to the power of cycling to bring people together, create lasting memories, and inspire a love for the outdoors.
