By Bill Moreno and Sam Morton, Contributing Writers
When the snow piles up, it isn’t the end of the trail season. Most of us are familiar with snowshoes, cross country skis, and snowmobiles, but for a growing number of people fat biking is becoming a great way to get outside during winter. Fortunately, Gorham residents don’t have to travel far for fun trails to do any of these activities, and we’re home to some of the best fat biking in the state.
At first glance, a fat bike looks like a mountain bike on steroids.The big difference is the 4” to 5” wide tires that help the bike “float” better on packed snow and provide better traction. These tires are also available with studs to provide extra grip on icy trails.While the extra wide tires help the bike float, deeper snow still needs to be packed firm before riding, similar to conditions for cross-country skiing. Trails are groomed by a SnowDog – a motorized, tracked sled, similar to a snowmobile without the skis. A SnowDog is compact and nimble for negotiating narrow, twisty trails. These machines are owned and maintained by Greater Portland New England Mountain Biking Association (GPNEMBA) and are used by trained volunteers who regularly groom over 20 miles of trails at the Lavoie Bike Park, Tannery Brook Preserve and the Hamblen network. The paths at Cherry Hill Farm are also an option.
Snowmobile trails can also be used by fat bikes, but please respect all posted signs. Some snowmobile trails may not have landowner approval for multi-use activities. And if you ride, snowshoe or ski on a snowmobile trail, please pay extra attention for snowmobiles (do not wear headphones). You can check with Gorham SnoGoers about their trail use policy.
If you are ready to give fat biking a try but don’t have a bike, check in with local bike shops; several offer fat bike rentals.They can also give you guidance to determine if your current bike is good for winter riding. Rentals may also be available at some cross-country ski trail centers.
Gearing up for winter riding is a balance of staying warm and not overheating. Fat biking can require high exertion and it’s important to avoid the “sweat-chill.” If you dress like you’re going downhill skiing, there’s potential to overheat. Dress in layers you can easily add or remove to regulate your heat.
Once you’re geared up, these tips will help maximize the fun. The best time to ride is when the snow is packed enough so that you’re not struggling to pedal. If your tires are making a rut in the groomed track it’s best to turn around. It’s greatly appreciated if skiers, snowshoers, walkers and trail runners follow the same guidance. A deep boot imprint, or “post hole,” can damage the trails for other users. Also, just like with driving, you’ll need more time to slow down and stop, and corners can be a bit slippery. Remember that many of the trails in Gorham are on private land and are multi-use; please be respectful to landowners and share the trail. Snowshoeing and cross-country skiing on groomed tracks are always welcome. Beyond the physical workout, fat biking can offer a thrill of zipping along a snowy track or it can be a quiet, serene ride through a snow-covered forest, far away from the slushy salt of the roads. Either way, it’s a great way to get outside in winter and enjoy your local trails all year round.
Bill Moreno is Gorham conservation chairman and Sam Morton is VP of Greater Portland New England Mountain Biking Association. Both are Gorham residents.