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Analysis: Boulder County, Colorado’s 2024 Diagonal Highway Bikeway Project

Brad Tucker
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Analysis: Boulder County, Colorado’s 2024 Diagonal Highway Bikeway Project

Analysis of the Upcoming Diagonal Highway Project:

Editor’s Note: In 2024, Boulder County, Colorado plans to construct a shared use pathway from Boulder to Longmont. The path will connect Longmont, Niwot, Gunbarrel and the City of Boulder. Colorado Bike Law Attorney Brad Tucker analyzes the project below.

Seventeen-year-old Magnus White was a Junior US cyclocross national champion, competed in the Cyclocross World Championships in 2022, and was training for the Road World Championships this past summer. He was recognized as one of the future US talents in the sport. A former Boulder Junior Cycling Team member, big things were expected of Magnus, and he certainly expected big things of himself. He was diligently putting in the hard training sessions required to reach the top level of the sport.

Magnus was killed by a driver in Boulder this past summer when the driver veered off Diagonal Highway and into the shoulder at 55 miles per hour, striking Magnus from behind. The driver was arrested for vehicular homicide nearly half a year later. Police believe she fell asleep at the wheel, although her phone records show that she was texting just minutesbefore the crash. There is no amount of jail time that will give Magnus’ family the justice they deserve.

A 12-Foot-Wide Shoulder on Diagonal Highway Did Not Stop the Driver From Killing Magnus White

The stretch of road on which Magnus was killed was Colorado Highway 119, commonly referred to as Diagonal Highway, which connects Boulder to Longmont. It is a heavily used road by cyclists, as it serves as one of the only connectors between Boulder and the quieter, rural farm roads north of town. While the speed limit ranges between 60 and 55 miles per hour, the shoulder on Diagonal Highway is as wide as the car travel lanes: over 10 feet wide. It is almost difficult to imagine a driver managing to hit a cyclist in the shoulder of Diagonal, as the highway is straight and the view wide-open. Yet, clearly it is possible, and judging by the skid marks on Daigonal’s shoulder, drivers somehow lose control of their vehicles seemingly all the time. Distracted driving and fatigued driving account for a vast portion of traffic violence, and now there is one fewer cyclist among us because of one driver’s appalling choices.

Construction of the Diagonal Highway Off-Street Bike Path is Set to Begin in 2024

While it is very easy to become disheartened with our society’s view towards cyclists and the complete disregard for human life that so many drivers develop the second they get behind the wheel of a car, there are glimmers of hope. An off-street bike path sandwiched between the north- and south-bound lanes of Diagonal Highway is in the works.

Diagonal Highway has two lanes of travel going either direction. Currently, a large grass median (many dozens of feet wide) divides these north- and south-bound lanes, providing ample space for a bike path down the center. The proposed nine-mile-long concrete path, connecting Boulder and Longmont, will be 12 feet wide in most sections, and will travel underneath many of the existing cross streets that bisect Diagonal Highway, improving bike commute time and reducing chances of bike versus car collisions at these intersections. Other crossings will make use of pedestrian push-button signals.

Other Features of the Diagonal Highway Project

In addition, the project will incorporate a new Bus Rapid Transit line along the route, with the goal of reducing single occupancy vehicle traffic from Boulder to Longmont. Blue line buses will arrive every 15 minutes, and Orange line buses every 30 minutes. This bus line will have its own travel lane along certain sections of Diagonal in order to bypass congested traffic. Lastly, various intersections along Diagonal will be modified to reduce the risk of crashes and decrease car travel time from Boulder to Longmont. Construction is set to begin in the last half of 2024.

What the Project Gets Right

We are almost always in favor of off-street bike paths, as they offer the greatest safety benefits for cyclists compared to other bike infrastructure, such as painted bike lanes and protected bike lanes. However, not all off-street bike paths (shared-use paths) are equal in quality. Historically, and still currently in many municipalities, shared-use paths have been designed for low-speed bike travel (think Sunday beach cruisers) in order to accommodate pedestrians—these types of paths are narrow and incorporate unnecessary curves to reduce bike speed. Many off-street paths also follow winding creeks, and therefore do not take very direct routes. Some off-street paths do not take bike commuters in a useful direction at all. Many off-street paths are also far too narrow, creating conflict between pedestrians and cyclists. Lastly, bike infrastructure is often designed by engineers who haven’t touched a bike since they were nine years old.

The Diagonal Highway Bikeway project appears (no highly detailed plan is available at the time of this writing) to avoid many of these failures. It seems that it is going to use a highly functional, safe, and user-friendly design. Here is what the proposed projects gets right:

  • Curves will be gradual, and it does not appear that unnecessary curves will be added to slow cyclists down.
  • The path will be 12-feet-wide in most sections, and 16-feet wide at underpasses and other heavy traffic areas. This is wider than most bike paths in Colorado.
  • The shoulders of the path will be mowed during summer so the usable width of the path will not be decreased in the summer months.
  • Drainage and pumps will be used at underpasses to decrease the severity of flooding.
  • The path will be snow-plowed in the winter.
  • There will be lighting at all underpasses.
  • All but one bike underpass has a clear line of sight.
  • E-bikes will be allowed on the path.
  • The path will be hard-surfaced, as opposed to gravel/dirt.
  • The path will have many points of entry/exit.
  • The path’s many underpasses bypass intersections, improving rider safety and speed of travel.
  • The path does not attempt to hug the shoulder of Diagonal Highway, creating a safer and more enjoyable experience for cyclists and pedestrians.
  • Cross street intersections, such as Jay Road, Airport Road, and 63rd Street, will rise overthe highway and bike path, improving safety and speed of bike commuters attempting to cross over Diagonal Highway.
  • There appears to be great bike access to the new bus lines.

To Be Seen

As of this writing, we were not able to determine whether the existing bike lane/shoulder on Diagonal will be preserved. Preservation of the existing shoulder is critical for large, fast-moving group rides that may not be able to fit on a heavily trafficked shared-use path. This is also necessary during heavy rain events that will potentially flood underpasses, and in the winter when even regular snow plowing is likely to leave behind icy patches on the shared-use path for days at a time (ice melts quicker on more exposed roads/shoulders than on bike paths).

Potential Drawbacks and Shortcomings of the Diagonal Highway Redesign

Despite its many advantages, they didn’t get everything right. As with any road project, there is a budget to keep in mind, which limits what can be accomplished. As it relates to pure bikeway infrastructure, there are imperfections to the plan, and we acknowledge that some of them are a little “nit-picky.” Nevertheless, being mindful that we should always be looking to improve our bicycle infrastructure, here are some ways that the plan appears to fall short:

  • A six-foot-wide lane of travel in either direction (the path is 12 feet wide in total) is not wide enough for cyclists to comfortably ride two-abreast when navigating curves, oncoming cyclists, and pedestrians.
  • Unlike Diagonal Highway itself, there will be no separation between north- and south-bound lanes of travel for cyclists; there will be just one path with a line of paint down the center. This increases the chance of head-on collisions.
  • There is no designated pedestrian path. Instead, cyclists will be expected to share the path with pedestrians. This is often a high source of conflict.
  • The path will be concrete instead of asphalt, meaning there will be seams/cracks in the path every dozen-or-so feet. Concrete is also more slippery than asphalt.
  • Ice will melt slower on concrete than on black or dark gray asphalt.
  • While more durable, concrete is less forgiving to run and walk on than asphalt.
  • While mostly straight, the path still makes significant deviations from a straight line, making it longer than the Diagonal Highway vehicle lanes, and therefore increasing the travel distance for bike commuters.
  • There does not appear to be any type of barrier between Diagonal Highway and the shared-use path, meaning that drivers can still veer off the road and hit a cyclist or pedestrian. Such a collision occurred on Foothills Highway 157 (Diagonal Highway turns into Foothills Highway 157 once it reaches Boulder). In 2019, a driver veered off the road, crossed the grass median, and killed a cyclist on the off-street shared-use path.

Clouse, Honsinger, and Brunner Headline USA Cyclocross Worlds Team

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Clouse, Honsinger, and Brunner Headline USA Cyclocross Worlds Team

28 athletes will compete in the UCI Cyclocross World Championships on February 3-4. 

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colorado (January 17, 2024) – USA Cycling announced today the 2024 UCI Cyclocross World Championships team competing in Tábor, Czech Republic on February 3-4, 2024.

With the support of the MudFund, USA Cycling has been on the road spending several weeks in Europe preparing for the pinnacle of cyclocross, the World Championships. This season, the team had three junior podiums: David Thompson (New Canaan, Conn.; AG2R Citroën U19 Team) finished second at the first Junior World Cup of the year in Troyes, France, Vida Lopez de San Roman (Sebastopol, Calif.; Bear National Team) rode to a win in Hulst, and Henry Coote (Manchester, Mass.; Comp Edge Racing) claimed his first European podium at the Grand Prix Sven Nys.

Photo courtesy USA Cycling

National Champions Clara Honsinger (Portland, Ore.; S&M Racing), Eric Brunner (Boulder, Colo.; WTP Pivot Off Road), Lizzy Gunsalus (Dudley, Mass.; CCB Racing), David Thompson, and Vida Lopez de San Roman crowned in Louisville, Ky. will all be racing in Tábor. U23 Men’s National Champion Jack Spranger (Sammamish, Wash.; Bear National Team) was selected to the team but declined his nomination.

The Team USA roster is as follows:

Elite Men

  • Eric Brunner (Boulder, Colo.; WTP Pivot Off Road)
  • Scott Funston (Boulder, Colo.; WTP Pivot Off Road)
  • Curtis White (Delanson, N.Y.; Steve Tilford Foundation Racing)

Elite Women

  • Katie Clouse (Park City, Utah; Steve Tilford Foundation Racing)
  • Clara Honsinger (Portland, Ore.; S&M Racing)
  • Raylyn Nuss (Lawrence, Kan.; Steve Tilford Foundation Racing)

U23 Men

  • Marcis Shelton (Mill Valley, Calif.)
  • Andrew Strohmeyer (Mount Airy, Md.; CXHAIRS Devo / Trek Bikes)
  • Jules Van Kempen (Chapel Hill, N.C.; Cervelo / OrangeLiving)
  • Dylan Zakrajsek (Grand Junction, Colo.)

U23 Women

  • Mia Aseltine (Littleton, Colo.; Comp Edge Racing)
  • Ella Brenneman (Gibsonia, Penn.; CX Hairs Devo / Trek Bikes)
  • Keira Bond (Louisville, Colo.; CX Hairs Devo / Trek Bikes)
  • Lizzy Gunsalus (Dudley, Mass.; CCB Racing)
  • Kaya Musgrave (Littleton, Colo.; Cervelo / OrangeLiving)
  • Lauren Zoerner (Highlands Ranch, Colo.; Groove Off Road Racing Team)

Junior Men

  • Henry Coote (Manchester, Mass.; Comp Edge Racing)
  • Calvin Conaway (Zionsville, Ind.; Ignition Racing)
  • James Halverson (North Branch, Minn.; Minnesota Junior Cycling)
  • Miles Mattern (Rochester, N.Y.; CXHAIRS Devo / Trek Bikes)
  • Alexander Scopinich-Burgel (Concord, Mass.; New England Devo)
  • David Thompson (New Canaan, Conn.; AG2R Citroën U19 Team)
  • Luke Walter (Boulder, Colo.; Boulder Junior Cycling)

Junior Women

  • Jorja Bond (Louisville, Colo.; Boulder Junior Cycling)
  • Lidia Cusack (Chevy Chase, Md.; CX Hairs Devo / Trek Bikes)
  • Vida Lopez de San Roman (Sebastopol, Calif.; Bear National Team)
  • Alyssa Sarkisov (North Potomac, Md.; CXHAIRS Devo / Trek Bikes)
  • Alyssa White (Elkins, W.V.; Finkraft Junior Cycling Team)

Cyclocross is not an Olympic sport; therefore, it is fully funded by generous contributions to the MudFund. If you would like to continue seeing American success, consider making a donation to the MudFund, here.

 

Retrospec Recalls Kid’s Bike Helmets Due to Risk of Head Injury; Violation of the Federal Safety Regulation for Bicycle Helmets

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Retrospec Recalls Kid’s Bike Helmets Due to Risk of Head Injury; Violation of the Federal Safety Regulation for Bicycle Helmets

Name of Product: Scout Kid’s Bike Helmets

Hazard: The recalled helmets do not comply with the coverage, positional stability, and labeling requirements of the CPSC federal safety regulation for bicycle helmets. The helmets can fail to protect in the event of a crash, posing a risk of head injury.

Remedy: Refund

Recall Date: January 11, 2024

Units: About 72,000 (In addition, 150 in Canada)

Consumer Contact

Retrospec toll-free at 888-488-2369 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday, or online at https://retrospec.com/pages/retrospec-scout-recall or retrospec.com and click on “Product Recall” at the top of the page for more information.

Recall Details

Description: This recall involves Scout model Retrospec kid’s bike helmets in sizes XS and S. The helmets were sold in the following colors and designs: Blippi, Blush, Brash Blue, Chameleon, Cool Mint, Matte Forest Green, Matte Black, Matte Navy, Matte White, Matte Burnt Orange, Matte Green, Matte Royal Blue, and Matte Whisper Pink. The helmets were sold with a green hang tag label listing the name “Retrospec,” the Scout brand name, and the helmet size. The word Retrospec or the Retrospec “R” logo appears on the right side of the helmet.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled helmets and contact Retrospec for a full refund. To receive a refund, consumers should destroy the helmet by cutting off the straps and mark the helmet with their initials and the date near the Retrospec logo on the right side of the helmet. Consumers should upload a photo of the helmet, showing the straps cut off, their initials, date, and Retrospec logo, to the recall registration page at https://retrospec.com/pages/retrospec-scout-recall to prove destruction, and then dispose of the recalled helmet.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported.

Sold At: T Scheels, Play it Again Sports, and independent bicycle stores nationwide and online at Retrospec.com and Amazon.com from February 2019 through March 2023 for between $18 and $23.

Importer(s): Xander Bicycle Corporation, DBA Retrospec, of Perris, California

Manufactured In: China

Recall number: 24-081

Belgian Waffle Ride Returns To British Columbia

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Belgian Waffle Ride Returns To British Columbia

The Return of the Hell of the Great White North

SAN DIEGO, California // VANCOUVER, BC, Canada – (Jan 10, 2024) — Monuments of Cycling, a premier cycling events producer, has partnered with standout Canadian endurance event producer Platinum Racing to deliver the second Belgian Waffle Ride in British Columbia, to be held September 21 – 22, 2024 on Vancouver Island, B.C. Canada. The Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR BC) will kick off the fall on the west coast of Canada in the Cowichan Valley of Vancouver Island. Along with the Belgian Waffle, Wafer and Wanna Rides, the accompanying Unroad Cycling Festival will feature live music, a massive beer garden, a variety of food options, and all sorts of family fun that will exemplify the unapologetic Canadian hospitality in its most apologizing of ways.

Monuments of Cycling (MoC) is excited to announce its new Canadian partnership with Platinum Racing who produces and markets triathlon, cycling and run events in Western Canada, including Ironman 70.3 Calgary, the Chinook Gran Fondo and Heart of the Rockies Gran Fondo. MoC and Platinum Racing are focused on driving the growth of unroad, or gravel, racing, or gravel in Canada and plan to kick off the partnership initially with the Second Annual Belgian Waffle Ride British Columbia, where a vibrant cycling culture anxiously awaits the return of this spectacle now known as The Hell of the Great White North.

Photo courtesy Monuments of Cycling/BWR

Hosting multiple bike racing events and a USD $7,000 prize purse, the BWR BC promises to lure a deep field of Canadian, American and world class road, gravel, cyclocross, and mountain bike racers from around the world looking to take on the uniquely beautiful and challenging terrain that only Vancouver Island can offer. The BWR will be celebrating 13 years of pedaling perversity in 2024 and this international affair promises to provide professional and amateur cyclists alike the opportunity to ride the most coveted unroads of this spectacular venue, utilizing dozens of gravel and single-track sectors to connect the best roads of the area for a truly dynamic multi-surface race… the unique complexion of road and unroad dynamics that are hallmarks of the BWR offering.

Photo courtesy Monuments of Cycling/BWR

Next September, the BWR BC will be the highlight the Canadian racing season in Cowichan Valley, which is known as Canada’s “Warm Land” and outdoor recreation playground. Specifically, the BWR Unroad Expo and race festivities will take over the Providence Farm in Duncan B.C, returning as Western Canada’s premier bike festival for the annual gathering of riders, racers, enthusiasts, and curious onlookers! The venue was chosen because it is surrounded by the world-class single track of Mt. Tzouhalem (the Zoo), Maple Mountain, and Mt. Prevost. Accommodation options will include an onsite RV / Van Life parking, Tent Camping / Bike Packing, Airbnb, and excellent hotel selections in Duncan, and nearby Nanaimo and Victoria, including Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay, Best Western Cowichan Bay, and the Four Points by Sheraton Victoria Gateway.

Photo courtesy Monuments of Cycling/BWR

“To be able to bring the BWR to Canada, especially in BC, is the perfect fit for us given the limitless possibilities of trails, gravel roads, and varied terrain that our backyard has to offer,” said Tom Bamford, President of Platinum Racing. “Combined with our excessively polite Canadian hospitality, great food, and incredible brews, we are looking forward to building the BWR empire in Canada and creating experiences that riders celebrate in the years to come.”

Photo courtesy Monuments of Cycling/BWR

A healthy confluence of glorious mountains, dedicated trail stewards and moderate climate has turned Cowichan into an incredible cycling destination. It’s extreme variety, from downhill daredevil descending to flowy cross-country trails, the area’s terrain is an incredible mix of roots, rocks, roads and unroads that lie beneath the thick west coast forest and the island’s arbutus charm, the likes of which combine into the perfect cocktail for BWR intoxication. And the community of Cowichan is overflowing with passionate locals who build and maintain trails, promote the region, and educate riders.

Photo courtesy Monuments of Cycling/BWR

The BWR, created as an extremely challenging race in the spirit of the great European one- day Spring Classics, is a truly unique series of races in North America. There will be three distances on offer in BC; the longer Waffle Ride, roughly 130-miles (210km), and the half-as-long Wafer Ride for those looking to get a taste of the glory without the full-time training commitment the full Waffle requires, and the taster, the Wanna Ride (half the Wafer).

Photo courtesy Monuments of Cycling/BWR

This Second Annual BWR BC race, like other BWR’s in California, N. Carolina, Utah, Mexico, and Arizona, will have a deep field of professional riders and an expansive list of hungry amateur riders drawn to the unparalleled opportunity to race alongside their heroes. The Waffle will be offering prize purse to the top three riders, both female and male! Racers and event patrons will be treated to Belgian waffles and ales, frites, and a variety of culinary delights, more waffles, and more beer on race weekend.

Registration for BWR BC is now live at this link.

Should the Wasatch Front’s Premier Multi-use Trail have Eminent Domain Rights?

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Should the Wasatch Front’s Premier Multi-use Trail have Eminent Domain Rights?

By Katie McKellar, Utah News Dispatch — A Republican Utah lawmaker who is also an avid road cyclist and mountain biker has proposed legislation to give one of Utah’s most popular multi-use trails eminent domain rights. 

The Bonneville Shoreline Trail is a key part of the underdeveloped Salt Lake City Trails System. Photo by Photo John.

The newly filed bill sponsored by Rep. Jeff Stenquist, R-Draper, seeks to classify Bonneville Shoreline Trail — a trail for hikers and bikers that currently runs along the Salt Lake Valley’s foothill bench that was formed by Utah’s ancient Ice Age lake, Lake Bonneville — as a public use that would be eligible for eminent domain.

Utah Rep. Jeff Stenquist (Courtesy of Utah House of Representatives)

In other words, HB235 would empower local governments to allow them to use eminent domain to condemn or claim private property for the purpose of connecting or expanding segments of the Bonneville Shoreline Trail. 

Currently the Bonneville Shoreline Trail is made up of dozens of segments that span just over 100 miles from Logan to Spanish Fork, with proposed plans to expand the route to about 280 miles all the way to the Idaho border to the north and Nephi to the south. The Bonneville Shoreline Trail Committee wants to eventually connect all of its segments to create a continuous route, which would require coordination across multiple cities and counties, as well as in some areas national Forest Service land. 

Stenquist said his bill is “narrowly tailored” to the Bonneville Shoreline Trail as an “important” multi-use route for outdoor recreation in Utah. He noted the trail has been expanding for decades now, but not without hard work across many different jurisdictions. In some cases, he noted it’s even taken an act of Congress to stretch it across wilderness or Forest Service land. 

Asked if there are specific properties cities or counties are interested in for the Bonneville Shoreline Trail, Stenquist said, “It’s not that I’m trying to target a specific segment, per say, I just know there’s more than one,” and his bill would give jurisdictions another tool in their belt to help them complete the Bonneville Shoreline Trail’s proposed route.  

Stenquist acknowledged that eminent domain is “always a sticky subject” when it comes to government entities claiming property from private property owners, but he said “they do get fairly compensated. It’s not that it’s just taken away.” He noted the property must be fairly compensated and it’s often “up for negotiation.”

“Sometimes you’ve got a trail, and there’s just one small section that has a private property owner that’s unwilling to compromise on it or work with the local entity,” he said. 

In 2008, the Utah Legislature took away local governments’ power to use eminent domain for trail systems. Stenquist’s bill wouldn’t roll back those restrictions entirely — only to expand the authority to Bonneville Shoreline Trail. 

Rep. Jeff Stenquist, R-Draper, mountain bikes in American Fork Canyon in May 2020. (Courtesy of Jeff Stenquist)

Stenquist is also chairman of the Utah Outdoor Recreation Commission, which develops statewide strategies and plans for the state’s outdoor recreation opportunities. He said he hears “a lot” of complaints from cities and counties wanting those eminent domain powers back for trails, “but I just don’t think the Legislature has a lot of appetite for restoring eminent domain authority for trails.

“But one that keeps coming up is Bonneville Shoreline Trail,” he said, so he agreed to try to run a bill. 

Utah’s Republican supermajority Legislature is full of conservatives who value private property rights, and Stenquist said he’s one of them. But he said eminent domain can sometimes be necessary to complete projects of regional importance, and he argued Bonneville Shoreline Trail should be one of them. 

“I’m someone who very much supports private property rights. But sometimes you want to be able to have that tool in your toolbox to enable you to negotiate with private property owners for a fair price.”

It’s unclear how much support the bill will have in the House and Senate. 

“It’s really specific,” he said. “It doesn’t open up the floodgates for (all trails). If that’s something the Legislature will have an appetite for, I don’t know if they will.” 

Stenquist hopes it will at least be heard in a public hearing during the Utah Legislature’s 45-day session that begins Tuesday, but that remains to be seen.

Utah News Dispatch is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Utah News Dispatch maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor McKenzie Romero for questions: [email protected]. Follow Utah News Dispatch on Facebook and Twitter.

Cycling West’s Winter 2024 Issue is Now Available!

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Cycling West’s Winter 2024 Issue is Now Available!

Cycling West and Cycling Utah Magazine’s Winter 2024 Issue is now available as a free download (8 MB download). Pick up a copy at your favorite Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, Nevada, Montana, Colorado, Arizona, New Mexico, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Northern California bike shop or other location.

Download the Magazine Now!

Cycling West Winter 2024 Issue Cover Photo: Steve Wasmund and Amy Andrews in the 2023 Paris-Brest-Paris event. They finished in 69:00:34. “One of the professional event photos taken in front of one of the many quaint churches along the route. I can’t place the town, but our sunken eyes suggest our return, Tuesday afternoon… possibly Tinteniac.” Photo by Maindru Photo

 

Contents

  • In Search Of: Reflections on Riding Paris-Brest-Paris — page 3
  • Four Ways to Get Kids Racing Bikes in America — page 7
  • Entering the Spirit World: An Arizona Gravel Event — page 8
  • Beauty in Age — page 9
  • We Are Big Fans! – A Trip to Watch Cyclocross in Belgium — page 10
  • The Unexpected Perks of Off-Season Weight Gain for Cyclists and Triathletes — page 14
  • Park to Park Pedal Century Ride: A Post LOTOJA Event — page 14
  • Why Winter is a Great Time for a Bike Fit — page 15
  • Study: Cycling Benefits the Common Good — page 15
  • Fall European Classics Trivia — page 19
  • Report: Bicycling Surged in Metros During Pandemic — page 21
  • Congress’ Best Bike Advocate to Retire — page 21
  • November Bike Racing Trivia Answers — page 21
  • Book Review: The Slow Road to Tehran: A Revelatory Bike Ride through Europe and the Middle East — page 22
  • EPA Working to Enhance Safety in Bicycle Manufacturing — page 22
  • Senate Bills Could Expand Mountain Biking Options in Colorado and Montana — page 22
  • Anyone Can Bike — The Bicycle Art of Savannah Cottam — page 23

Kona Donates 500 Bicycles to Utah High School Cycling League

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Kona Donates 500 Bicycles to Utah High School Cycling League
 

PARK CITY, Utah (December ​ 15, 2023) — Kona Bicycles announced a substantial donation of 500 mountain bikes to the Utah High School Cycling League. Kona’s parent company, Kent Outdoors, recently decided to move their headquarters to the League’s backyard of Park City, UT. Quick to make an impact on their new hometown, Kent has been essential to making this donation happen before the year’s end. Fostering community has consistently been at the forefront of Kona and Kent’s values, and this philanthropic initiative emphasizes that commitment by promoting youth engagement in cycling for the health and well-being of Utah’s high school students.

Photo courtesy Utah High School Cycling League

Inspired by The Utah High School Cycling League and the significant strides they’ve made in encouraging young athletes to embrace the benefits of cycling, Kona was proud to contribute to the league’s commitment to promoting an active and healthy lifestyle. 

The donated 500 bicycles, known for appealing to various riding styles and skill levels, will provide students with access to quality equipment – enabling them to explore the joy of cycling while participating in league events and training programs. Kona believes that every student should have the opportunity to experience the freedom and exhilaration that comes with riding a bike.

Kona’s donation underscores the company’s dedication to cultivating a lifelong love for cycling. The Utah High School Cycling League expresses its gratitude to Kona for this generous gesture, emphasizing the positive impact it will have on the league’s ability to reach more students and make a lasting difference in their lives.

“Kona’s donation will greatly assist in lowering financial barriers to participate in the league. This is the single largest product donation the league has ever received. These bikes will be given to teams to build a bike loan program for student-athletes and coaches that may not have a suitable cross-country mountain bike,” said ​ Dallen Atack, League Director of Utah High School Cycling League.

Kona and the Utah High School Cycling League invite the community to join them in celebrating this partnership and the positive impact it will have on the lives of young cyclists. 

Salt Lake Winter Bike Swap: An Unmissable Opportunity for Bike Enthusiasts

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Salt Lake Winter Bike Swap: An Unmissable Opportunity for Bike Enthusiasts

SALT LAKE CITY, Utah (January 11, 2024) — The Utah Criminology Student Association announced the Salt Lake Winter Bike Swap at Salt Lake Community College, a must-attend event for bike enthusiasts and community supporters alike.

Event Details:

  • Date: January 25, 2024
  • Time: 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM
  • Location: South City Campus, Salt Lake Community College, Multipurpose Room (SE Corner of the College)

This exciting community event is not only an excellent opportunity to explore a vast array of new, used, and vintage bike parts and bikes but also a chance to contribute to a meaningful cause. The Salt Lake Winter Bike Swap is a grassroots fundraising effort dedicated to providing food and socks to unsheltered individuals in Salt Lake, Utah.

Highlights:

  • Free admission for attendees
  • Individuals can register to sell bikes and bike parts for a nominal fee of $15.00
  • Unbeatable deals on high-quality items from both individuals and local companies

This fully volunteer-driven initiative is proudly sponsored by Sun and Ski Sports, Jerks Bike Shop, Saturday Cycles, and Bingham Cyclery. Their generous support, along with that of Salt Lake Community College and the Utah Criminology Student Association, has made this event possible.

Event Partners:

  • Sun and Ski Sports
  • Jerks Bike Shop
  • Saturday Cycles
  • Bingham Cyclery

How to Participate: Bring your friends and family to SLCC’s South City Campus on January 25, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM, and seize the opportunity to make incredible deals on bike parts and complete bikes.

For Individuals Wishing to Sell: Register for a selling spot at the Salt Lake Winter Bike Swap for just $15.00 by visiting this link.

Don’t miss out on this unique chance to support the community, score fantastic bike-related deals, and be a part of a cycling celebration. Join us at the Salt Lake Winter Bike Swap and make a difference on January 25, 2024!

Search for Speed Announces 2024 Search For Olympic Hopefuls

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Search for Speed Announces 2024 Search For Olympic Hopefuls

USA Cycling continues the search for the next generation of Olympic hopefuls with several new open try out events at the Velo Sports Center in Carson, Calif. 

LOS ANGELES, California (January 9, 2024) – USA Cycling announced that Search for Speed, the Los Angeles based track sprint talent identification program, will continue and advance in 2024 with a newly expanded tryout strategy and schedule. 

Founded in early 2023 and funded through the generous support of the Rapha Foundation, Search for Speed gained immediate national attention. The program proved to be a massive success focusing on grassroots efforts by introducing the sport to an expanded and more diverse audience throughout southern California. By the end of 2023, Search for Speed had tested over 3,000 new prospects at 45 different locations. Athletes who hit Search for Speed’s target peak power on the WattBike, the official smart bike of USA Cycling, were invited to a  combine at the VELO Sports Center in Carson, Calif. In July, the program hosted a combine final where 12 athletes were later invited to a three-part Talent Integration Camp.

One of the youth races at VELO Sports Center during the USA Cycling National Track Championships in Carson, CA. Photo by Peter Abraham

For 2024, the Search for Speed mission remains the same: break down entry barriers into the sport of competitive sprint cycling, while putting National Championship, World Championship, and Olympic medals within reach.

In 2023, athletes needed to try out in order to be invited to a Search for Speed combine. New for 2024, all Search for Speed combines will be open to the public. This will streamline the identification and testing process, and will provide athletes from any sport and background the opportunity to demonstrate their individual speed, power, and athletic potential in a one-stop setting. The desired age range is 18-28, but individuals of all ages are encouraged to participate. Track cycling favors power and explosiveness, and open combines will be set-up to test an athlete’s ability, with different categories and target marks dependent on gender.

USA Cycling continues the search for the next generation of Olympic hopefuls with several new open try out events at the Velo Sports Center. Photo courtesy USA Cycling

“We believe the new 2024 Search for Speed open combine format in a single location will make it significantly easier for anyone to showcase their athletic skill, regardless of sports background,” says Alec Pasqualina, USA Cycling’s Athlete Development Pathway Director. “Athletes can pre-register and simply walk in.”

All 2024 Search for Speed open combines will take place at the VELO Sports Center – home to the USA Cycling Track Sprint program and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. Combines will be organized as weekend events, with one per month from February through July.

The confirmed Search for Speed Open Combine dates include:

  • February 3-4, 2024
  • March 2-3, 2024
  • April 27-28, 2024
  • June 1-2, 2024

Pre-Register here

The first day includes four tests: a speed and ability test; a standing vertical jump; a 40-yard dash; and a 6-second WattBike power test. All athletes will be invited back the following day for the UCI’s structured Power Profile Protocol Test. This internationally recognized test is conducted entirely on a WattBike and is a benchmark standard utilized by cycling’s international federation.

Athletes that hit the desired Power Protocol Test numbers at any combine will then graduate to the Talent Integration phase. Athletes invited to our Talent Integration team will undergo six months of training and development with USA Cycling’s Athlete Development staff. This phase kicks off in the late summer/fall of 2024.

“Search for Speed’s new open combine talent ID format really streamlines development for sports performance,” says USA Cycling’s Sprint Track Director, Erin Hartwell. “The opportunity for any athlete from any background to be seen and discovered has never been easier. Los Angeles 2028 is only four and half years away and we are committed to fielding the best possible team and competing for medals at our home Olympics. Search for Speed is a key component in that effort.”

USA Cycling’s Search for Speed in collaboration with the Rapha Foundation, is committed to finding and developing the sport of track sprint cycling with an end goal of developing and placing a U.S. Olympian in the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles.

Visit USACycling.org for more information on the athletes, events, and membership programs, and follow @USACycling across all channels for the latest on Team USA. 

For more information, contact Alec Pasqualina at [email protected]

 

The Athlete’s Kitchen—Carbs & Athletes: Friend or Foe?

Nancy Clark
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The Athlete’s Kitchen—Carbs & Athletes: Friend or Foe?

By Nancy Clark MS RD CSSD — Athletes create many reasons for limiting their intake of seemingly “evil” carbohydrates: I don’t like sandwiches … Pasta is so “heavy” … I’m staying away from gluten … I avoid any foods with added sugar … I prefer to eat two veggies at dinner instead of a veggie and a carby food. And, most often I hear: Bread is fattening!!! Anti-carb sentiment has pervaded my entire career as a sports nutritionist. While some fads have come and gone, the “carbs are bad” fad remains ingrained in the brains of even elite athletes. I am (again) encouraging you to reconsider your stance.

Homemade paella with rice, a great source of carbohydrates. Photo and food by Dave Iltis
  • Despite popular belief, carbohydrates are not inherently fattening. Excess calories of any kind are fattening. Excess calories of bread, bagels, and pasta are actually less fattening than excess calories of cheese, butter, and olive oil. That’s because converting excess calories of carbs into body fat requires more energy than does converting excess dietary fat into body fat. That means, if you want to be gluttonous yet suffer the least weight gain, indulge in fat-free frozen yogurt instead of gourmet ice cream!
  • To allay any confusion, let’s clarify what carbs actually are. Carbohydrates include both sugars and starches. Carbs are in fruits, vegetables, grains, and milk (lactose). Sugars and starches all digest into the simple sugar glucose. Glucose travels in your blood and, with the help of insulin, gets taken into muscles and stored as glycogen for fuel. Athletes who restrict carbs commonly complain about “dead legs.”
  • Sugars and starches are biochemically related. For example, an unripe fruit, such as a banana, is starchy. As it ripens, it becomes sweeter; the starch converts into sugar. Similarly, vegetables, such as peas, are sweet when young. Their sugar converts into starch as they mature.
  • All carbs—both sugars and starches—are excellent sources of fuel. Both “carby” bagels and sugary candy end up as glucose in your blood and feed your muscles as well as your brain. Whether you are a marathon runner or a weight lifter, a carb-rich sports diet (with adequate protein) can enhance your performance.
Berkeley’s Cheeseboard makes delicious baguettes, a good source of carbohydrates. Photo by Dave Iltis
  • Quality carbs, such as whole grains, fruits, and veggies, offer abundant vitamins, minerals (electrolytes), and other health-promoting nutrients. Refined sugar, however, offers little nutritional value. Yet, dietary guidelines say 10% of daily calories can come from added sugar. That’s at least 50 grams of sugar for most athletes and allows for some “fun foods.”
  • Sugar-avoiders please note: the 3 grams of added sugar in 2 tablespoons of peanut butter will not negate peanut butter’s health-promoting fiber, protein, and anti-inflammatory fats. Nor will the sugar in chocolate milk diminish its value as a helpful recovery fluid after a hard workout. Please look at the vitamins, minerals and protein that come along with the added sugar, not just the sugar itself.
  • Sports drinks, gels, and sports gummies are little more than refined sugar. That’s not bad; it’s exactly what the body wants during extended hard exercise. Even though refined sugar adds “empty calories” to a sports diet, athletes need not eat a perfectly sugar-free diet to have an excellent diet. There’s a time and a place for sweets.
  • The messages that carbs are inflammatory, fattening, and bad for you is targeted at sedentary people who consume excessive calories, often from highly processed foods. For those unfit (often unhealthy) people, excess carbohydrate can contribute to elevated blood glucose, which triggers the body to secrete extra insulin. Consistently high insulin can be inflammatory and lead to nasty health issues. Yet, most athletes can handle carbs with far less insulin than the average American—and without carbs causing “sugar crashes” or weight gain.
  • The most common reason for “sugar crashes” (hypoglycemia) among athletes relates to running out of fuel. The shakiness and sweats are because the athlete did not eat enough carbs to maintain normal blood glucose levels and the brain has to demand a quick fix—sugar! One marathoner credited the sugary gel he took at Mile 16 to cause him to “crash.” More likely, he needed more just one gel to meet his energy needs.
  • For athletic people who routinely train hard 4 to 6 days a week, carbs should be the foundation of each meal. The International Olympic Committee’s recommendations for a performance diet include far more carbs than many athletes consume via fruit, salads, and cooked veggies. Baseline targets for a 150-pound athlete are:
    • 375 g carb/day for ~1 hour of moderate exercise
    • 450 g carb/day for ~1-3 hours of endurance exercise
    • 525 g carb/day for >4-5 hours of extreme exercise

This comes to about 100 to 150 grams carb/meal, which equates to about 400 to 600 calories of grains, fruits, and/or veggies per meal. This menu exemplifies what 450 grams of carb “looks like”:

TIME MEAL CARB (g) SAMPLE  MEAL                
06:30 AM Pre-exercise Snack 40 Clif Bar                                     
–1.5-hour bike ride–
09:30 AM Post-exercise Breakfast 110 1 cup dry oats cooked in 1 cup milk, 1 large (9”) banana, drizzle honey 
11:30 AM Early Lunch 125 Sandwich, fruit yogurt, 4 fig newtons               
03:30 PM Hearty Snack 45 Dried fruit (in trail mix), Latte
07:30 PM Dinner 130 Chicken, 2 cups (brown) rice, 1 c cooked carrots, 8 Hershey Kisses 

 

If your daily menu lacks starchy foods, experiment with adding grains to each meal and snack. You just might discover how much better you can feel and perform!

Bicycle Portraits: Pursuit Cycles at ENVE’s 2023 Grodeo

Cycling West
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Bicycle Portraits: Pursuit Cycles at ENVE’s 2023 Grodeo

PURSUIT CYCLES: Custom Carbon Fiber Road and Gravel Bikes. Made in Bozeman, Montana

Pursuit Cycles, from Bozeman, Montana. hoto courtesy ENVE Composites
Pursuit Cycles, from Bozeman, Montana. Photo courtesy ENVE Composites
Pursuit Cycles, from Bozeman, Montana. Photo courtesy ENVE Composites
Photo courtesy ENVE Composites
Pursuit Cycles, from Bozeman, Montana. Photo courtesy ENVE Composites
Pursuit Cycles, from Bozeman, Montana. Photo courtesy ENVE Composites
Pursuit Cycles, from Bozeman, Montana. Photo courtesy ENVE Composites
Pursuit Cycles, from Bozeman, Montana. Photo courtesy ENVE Composites
Pursuit Cycles, from Bozeman, Montana. Photo courtesy ENVE Composites

Ride Aventon Recalls Sinch.2 Folding E-Bicycles Due to Crash and Injury Hazards

Cycling West
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Ride Aventon Recalls Sinch.2 Folding E-Bicycles Due to Crash and Injury Hazards

Name of Product: Class 2 Sinch.2 Folding E-Bicycles

Hazard: The recalled e-bikes can accelerate unexpectedly, resulting in loss of control, posing crash and injury hazards.

Remedy: Repair
Recall Date: January 04, 2024
Units: About 2,300

Consumer Contact

Ride Aventon toll-free at 866-300-3311 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. PT Monday through Friday; or by email at [email protected] or online at https://www.aventon.com/pages/recalls or www.Aventon.com and click on “Recalls” at the bottom of the page for more information.

Recall Details

Description: This recall involves Class 2 Sinch.2 electric bicycles. The folding, 500w e-bikes were sold in silver (quicksilver) and blue (sapphire.) The e-bike has front and rear tires and foldable handlebars. The name “Aventon” is printed on the side of the downtube of the e-bike frame and “Sinch.2” is printed on the chain stay that runs to the rear of the bicycle connecting the rear wheel to the frame.

Recalled Class 2 Sinch.2 e-bike (Sapphire)
Recalled Class 2 Sinch.2 e-bike (Sapphire) with handlebars folded
Recalled Class 2 Sinch.2 e-bike portable

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled e-bikes and contact a Ride Aventon authorized dealer to schedule a free repair, including a software update to the controller.

Incidents/Injuries: The firm has received six reports of the recalled e-bikes accelerating unexpectedly. No injuries have been reported.

Sold At: Bicycle stores nationwide and online at BestBuy.com and Eriksbikeshop.com from April 2023 through August 2023 for about $1,800.

Importer(s): Ride Aventon Inc., of Brea, California

Manufactured In: China

Recall number: 24-075

Bell Sports Recalls Bell Slope Adult Bicycle Helmets Due to Risk of Head Injury

Cycling West
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Bell Sports Recalls Bell Slope Adult Bicycle Helmets Due to Risk of Head Injury

Name of Product: Bell Slope Adult Helmets

Hazard: The strap anchor can become dislodged from the helmet when sufficient force is applied, and therefore violates the CPSC federal safety regulation for bicycle helmets. The helmets can fail to protect in the event of a crash, posing a risk of head injury.

Remedy: Refund
Recall Date: January 04, 2024
Units: About 11,000

Consumer Contact

Bell Helmets at 800-456-2355 (Option 3) between 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday, by email at [email protected] or online at www.thebellgarage.com and click on the recall banner at the top of the home page for more information.

Recall Details

Description: This recall only involves Bell Slope adult bicycle helmets. The helmets were sold in dark green and light blue. The recalled Bell Slope helmets can be identified by the inner helmet sticker which has the model’s name “Slope” and B1161X written on it. Only adult sized Bell Slope Helmets are affected by this recall.

Remedy: Consumers should immediately stop using the recalled Bell Adult Slope helmets and contact Bell Sports for a refund. To receive a refund, consumers should destroy the helmet by cutting off the straps and upload photos of the helmet with the straps cut to [email protected] to prove destruction, then dispose of the recalled helmet.

Incidents/Injuries: None reported

Sold At: Target, Fred Meyer, Academy, other stores nationwide and other websites from January 2023 through April 2023 for about $30.

Importer(s): Bell Sports Inc., Irvine, California

Manufactured In: Rantoul, Illinois

Recall number: 24-074

IRONMAN Triathlon Releases 2024 Race Schedule

Cycling West
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IRONMAN Triathlon Releases 2024 Race Schedule

Athletes can plan their 2024 season with nine full-distance IRONMAN events to choose from in incredible locations across the US and Canada

TAMPA, Florida (August 14, 2023) – IRONMAN has announced its 2024 full-distance IRONMAN triathlon race calendar combining some iconic locations along with athlete favorites for the VinFast IRONMAN North America Series. Athletes looking to complete an IRONMAN triathlon this coming year, will have the opportunity to step up to the challenge of the toughest single day endurance event at one of nine unforgettable race venues across United States and Canada. Whether they are looking for a bucket list event or just to join the community of athletes who have earned the coveted title and complete their first IRONMAN triathlon, athletes can now plan their 2024 North American racing schedule. To view the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN North America Series schedule of events, visit www.ironman.com/na-open-2024.

ST GEORGE, UTAH – MAY 07: Cesar Suzuki of Brazil competes on the bike during the 2021 IRONMAN World Championship on May 07, 2022 in St George, Utah. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images for IRONMAN)

“We are pleased to be able to announce the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN North America Series schedule well in advance in an effort to enable athletes to plan their race schedule, set their goals, and prepare for a successful season of racing,” said Elizabeth O’Brien, Managing Director, North America for The IRONMAN Group. “With many of the most iconic and sought after IRONMAN triathlons around the world available in the United States and Canada, athletes will have the best opportunity possible to put in the training, set a personal PR, or just accomplish a life-long goal of crossing an IRONMAN finish at one of our incredible host venues here in North America.”

In a further effort to help athletes be able to plan their race calendar, the Flex90 program provides athletes that register within the first 90 days of registration being open to qualify for free deferral, payment plan, fee-free transfer, and partial refund. More details on Flex90 can be found here.

Below is a listing of the full-distance IRONMAN triathlons in the VinFast IRONMAN North America Series:

Date

Event Name

Event Details 
04/27/2024 Memorial Hermann IRONMAN North American Championship Texas Everything is bigger in the Lone Star State. Whether it be the epic belt buckle medals, increased IRONMAN World Championship triathlon slots, or the athlete’s aspirations that take on this storied race. For over 10 years, the athletes’ choice for best overall race in North America has offered an epic season-starting moment that will test athletes’ limits and push them to new heights in a destination filled with distinctive charm, natural beauty, and epic finish line moments. Athletes will start their journey in The Woodlands with a 2.4-mile, spectator-lined lake swim, cruise at their own volition for a 112-mile ride on the Hardy Toll Road and embrace the Texas faithful on one of the most spirited 26.2-mile run courses in North America. ​
    Preparation Races: IRONMAN 70.3 Waco triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Florida triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Texas triathlon
     
07/21/2024 Athletic Brewing IRONMAN Lake Placid Since its inception, the Athletic Brewing IRONMAN Lake Placid triathlon has captured the hearts and minds of athletes, spectators, and the local community. Nestled amidst the stunning Adirondack Mountains and surrounded by an outdoor lover’s paradise, the event became the first IRONMAN branded event in the continental United States. In 2024, the IRONMAN Lake Placid triathlon will celebrate its 25th Anniversary, marking a quarter-century of unforgettable moments and incredible achievements for this iconic and popular IRONMAN triathlon.
    Preparation Races: IRONMAN 70.3 Eagleman triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Maine triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Musselman triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Pennsylvania triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Western Massachusetts triathlon
     
08/25/2024 IRONMAN Canada In 1983, the first North American IRONMAN triathlon was born, and that race changed the IRONMAN triathlon community forever. Penticton, British Columbia, Canada is known as one of the world’s premier triathlon host communities, and a bucket list destination for IRONMAN athletes all over the world. Experience the iconic course, stunning landscapes, and the welcoming host community of Penticton.
    Preparation Races: IRONMAN 70.3 Coeur d’Alene triathlon; IRONMAN 70.3 Morro Bay triathlon; Athletic Brewing IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside triathlon; IRONMAN 70.3 Oregon triathlon; IRONMAN 70.3 Victoria triathlon
     
09/08/2024 IRONMAN Wisconsin A finish line experience unlike any other as athletes are greeted by the roar of thousands of family, friends, and supporters at the footsteps of the state capitol, dotting the ‘I’ on the IRONMAN journey. The IRONMAN Wisconsin triathlon has become known as a rite of passage in the triathlon community. The legendary run up the helix as athletes head towards T1, the run under the bright lights of the illustrious Camp Randall Stadium, and the relentless spirit of the Badger State are iconic experiences of this historic event. Year after year, the IRONMAN Wisconsin triathlon brings out the best in those with a relentless pursuit of excellence and delivers an experience that will fundamentally change you. ​
    Preparation Races: IRONMAN 70.3 Boulder triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Des Moines triathlon
     
09/21/2024 IRONMAN Maryland Join the community of finishers who are grateful to experience the camaraderie of Crabby Nation year after year. Athletes begin their IRONMAN Maryland triathlon experience with a 2.4-mile swim in the Choptank River before undertaking a 112-mile ride through the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge and a 26.2-mile run around historic Cambridge with an unforgettable finish at Long Wharf Park at Great Marsh. Closing out their 140.6-mile journey, athletes make their way through downtown Cambridge with an energetic finish at the historic Long Wharf Park at Great Marsh.
    Preparation Races: IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Eagleman triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Musselman triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Ohio triathlon
     
09/29/2024 IRONMAN Chattanooga Chattanooga, Tenn. offers an unforgettable experience that goes beyond race day and brings athletes and the support crews outdoor adventures that can’t be found anywhere else. One of triathlon’s best kept secrets, the IRONMAN Chattanooga triathlon takes athletes on a journey throughout southeastern Tennessee and Northern Georgia. The point-to-point swim takes place in the Tennessee River, while the unique 116-mile bike course leads the athletes 11 miles south of town before beginning two 47-mile loops into north Georgia and caps off with a two-loop run course through the Scenic City and around downtown Chattanooga.
    Preparation Races: IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Gulf Coast triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Ohio triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Texas triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Eagleman triathlon
     
10/20/2024 Kaiser Permanente IRONMAN California Every race starts with a goal. At the Kaiser Permanente IRONMAN California triathlon the goal is to help athletes go fast in every discipline of the course they encounter. Athletes will feel the acceleration from a 2.4-mile downriver swim in the American River and embrace the power on an ultra-flat and fast 112-mile bike course through the beautiful farm and wine country of Northern California, before being inspired by the crowds of cheering spectators that will keep their cadence high during the 26.2-mile run course that takes athletes along the Sacramento River before finishing in front of the State Capitol in downtown Sacramento.
    Preparation Races: IRONMAN 70.3 Coeur d’Alene triathlon; IRONMAN 70.3 Morro Bay triathlon; IRONMAN 70.3 Santa Cruz triathlon; Athletic Brewing IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside triathlon; IRONMAN 70.3 Oregon triathlon
     
11/02/2024 Visit Panama City Beach IRONMAN Florida Offering the perfect fusion of speed, history, and leisure, race day in Panama City Beach is like no other. Athletes racing at the Visit Panama City Beach IRONMAN Florida triathlon can make it a personal best on this iconic flat and fast course. Become part of over twenty-five years of history and enjoy the perfect race-cation surrounded by the emerald-green waters of the Gulf of Mexico at some of the world’s most beautiful beaches.
    Preparation Races: IRONMAN 70.3 Texas triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Gulf Coast triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Eagleman triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Augusta triathlon
     
11/17/2024 IRONMAN Arizona This is the Valley of the PR, where personal record and personal getaway intersect. Tempe and the greater Phoenix area is referred to as the Valley of the Sun for its warmth and 300+ days of sunshine. This iconic IRONMAN destination delivers an unforgettable racing experience featuring urban charm and scenic desert vistas. Those seeking speed will find it on this flat, fast, and personal record-breaking course. Those seeking a late-season race cation will find world-renowned resorts and legendary southwestern hospitality just minutes away from the race venue.
    Preparation Races: IRONMAN 70.3 Arizona triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Boulder triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Chattanooga triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Hawai`i triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Morro Bay triathlon, Athletic Brewing IRONMAN 70.3 Oceanside triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Oregon triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Santa Cruz triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 St. George triathlon, IRONMAN 70.3 Texas

Select 2023 IRONMAN triathlon events remain open for general registration that include qualifying spots in the 2024 VinFast IRONMAN World Championship triathlon. Register now at www.ironman.com/na-open-2024.

New Data Illustrates Importance of Connected Trail Infrastructure to the Nation

Cycling West
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New Data Illustrates Importance of Connected Trail Infrastructure to the Nation

Efforts to connect multiuse trails into transportation systems prevalent nationwide with developing trail networks in every state, reaching at least half of Americans.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (December 12, 2023) — Rails-to-Trails Conservancy (RTC), the nation’s largest trails and active transportation advocacy organization, today released the first-ever spatial analysis of the country’s trail networks.

The analysis found that there are more than 150 known multiuse trail networks—infrastructure that creates walking and biking routes that connect within and between communities, separated from traffic—in development nationwide, with trail networks underway in all 50 states, Washington, D.C., and Puerto Rico. At least half of Americans (49.75%) live in a county that is home to a developing trail network. Of the counties where trail networks are being developed, 74% are majority suburban/urban and 26% are majority rural populations.

Lisa Hazel and John Iltis enjoy a beautiful afternoon on the San Francisco Bay Trail in Emeryville, California. The network features over 350 miles of multi-use trails. Photo by Dave Iltis

“This data validates what we’ve long known—that multiuse trail networks are critical to the well-being of the nation. The scope and scale of trail network development underway nationwide has the potential to deliver powerful solutions for the climate, economic and mobility challenges facing all types of communities,” said Ryan Chao, RTC’s president. “People want more investment in infrastructure that will help them get around in their communities, whether or not they drive. The impact of this infrastructure is invaluable.”

Alongside the spatial analysis of America’s trail networks, RTC released national opinion-poll data capturing public support for trail networks.

  • People indicated that connectivity and active transportation infrastructure would help them walk and bike more. The top five factors include more destinations within a 10-to-20-minute walking distance (37%); friends and family to join them (34%); trails and greenways separated and protected from traffic (30%); more sidewalks (30%); and more protected bike lanes (29%).   
  • Nearly one-third of people (29%) say that trail networks would make it easier to walk and bike where they need to go instead of drive.
  • Overwhelming support for spending tax dollars on trail networks is consistent across party affiliation—82% of people agree that tax dollars should be spent on connecting trails to each other and important destinations (81% Republicans, 84% Democrats, 81% Independents, n = 619).
  • More people think that the government spends too little money on walking and biking infrastructure versus other forms of transportation infrastructure (49% compared with 39% public transportation and 38% roads).  

These findings come as the U.S. Department of Transportation prepares to release the first-ever call for applications for the Active Transportation Infrastructure Investment Program, which was authorized as part of the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in 2021. This new federal program is the first to dedicate funding to the connectivity of active transportation infrastructure. According to RTC, the scale and scope of the nation’s trail networks illustrate the urgency to fully fund the program, which only received a portion of the authorized funding in the 2023 federal budget. RTC, Congressional champions and partners across the country are continuing to advocate for full program funding, which is necessary to complete safe routes in communities across America and more quickly unlock the safety, climate and equity benefits of active transportation networks—especially critical at a time when thousands of pedestrians and cyclists are dying in crashes each year.

The data was released as part of a panel discussion at WOSU in Columbus featuring RTC, Latino Outdoors and the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission (MORPC). The event elevated Columbus as a prime example of what it takes to prioritize and accelerate the pace of efforts to connect trails into larger recreation and active transportation systems across the country, and the regional, statewide and national impact of those investments. The region is the hub of the Central Ohio Greenways network, an anchor in the statewide Ohio to Erie Trail, and a community along the route of the cross-country Great American Rail-Trail, which stretches 3,700 miles between Washington, D.C., to Washington State.

The analysis of America’s trail networks is part of RTC’s TrailNation initiative, redefining how the country builds trail networks and the impact this infrastructure can have on people and places. The analysis includes trail networks that are locally adopted; in development (either planning, construction, or both); and comprising two or more multiuse trail segments or contiguous loops that provide seamless connectivity without traffic interaction. The infrastructure represented in this assessment was identified by RTC as of Dec. 1, 2023, from spatial analyses and local and regional nonprofits and agencies. This assessment serves as a benchmark of trail network development nationwide and will expand over time as more networks are reported and developed. View the interactive map of America’s trail networks at https://www.railstotrails.org/our-work/trailnation/

RTC’s opinion poll was conducted online, Sept. 14–23, 2023, by the firm Stratalys Research, with a sample size of 1,200 adults over age 18, including an oversample of 200 Black and 200 Latino respondents.

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