Where to rent and try fat bikes
Fat biking is becoming increasingly popular in Maine, but the cost of the equipment needed for the sport can be prohibitive for beginners. In response to this problem, some bike shops, outfitters and recreation centers throughout the state have started offering rental fat bikes, allowing people to test out the activity without making a big initial investment.
For those who don’t know, a fat bike is simply a mountain bike with big — or “fat” — tires. The width and grip of these special tires make them especially suitable for riding on snow, sand and other soft, slippery surfaces. The tires have also proved to be a great option for Maine’s especially rocky, root-filled terrain, making this type of bike a year-round option.
For those interested in trying the sport, here are two places that offer rental fat bikes, plus suggestions of nearby trails to explore. Call ahead of time to check trail conditions and availability of bikes.
New England Outdoor Center in Millinocket
The New England Outdoor Center rents fat bikes from River Drivers Restaurant and Pub and the Twin Pines lodge and cabins, located at the end of Twin Pines Road in Millinocket. The bikes are $15 for an hour, $40 for a half day and $60 for a full day. For more information, visit neoc.com or call 207-723-5438. Nearby are plenty of trails to explore, including a new network of single-track trails built by Katahdin Area Trails that start right at the restaurant. The temperature must be below freezing to prevent fat bikers from damaging these new trails. Also, in nearby Baxter State Park, bicycles are permitted on Abol Stream Trail from Dec. 1 to April 1, and on the Tote and Roaring Brook roads year round.
Northwoods Outfitters in Greenville
The store, located in the heart of Greenville at the intersection of Route 15 and Pritham Avenue, rents fat bikes for $45 for half the day and $60 for a full day. The address of the store is 5 Lily Bay Road in Greenville. For more information, call 207-695-3288 or visit maineoutfitter.com. Nearby, the Appalachian Mountain Club trail system that connects the AMC wilderness lodges and cabins is groomed and open to fat bikes. In addition, fat bikers often explore the hard-packed snowmobile trails, many of which follow unplowed logging roads. Biking is also done on the trails crossing the frozen surface of Moosehead Lake.