Global Fat Bike Day @ ILRA


Saturday, Dec 2nd, 2023 –

The original & still the best!

The 1st Saturday in December is reserved for fatties to rule the world! Come join us for a 10 AM picture & waiver sign, then roll the Badlands at your leisure!

We’ll put out ribbons like in years past to mark the lesser known trails! Expect 6-10 miles in the Badlands, and continue on to ride the regular mountain bike trail if you choose!

We will meet at the parking lot at Springmill Pond within Island Lake State Park in Brighton, MI at 10 am for a group photo!

Post-ride festivities will be BYOB or many of us head down to Draught Horse Brewing!

Some FAQ’s answered:
Q: Is this the regular mountain bike trail?
A: No, this is an abandoned mine site. We will have 2 loops flagged that utilize some existing trails, we’ve trimmed them back a bit, but expect loose sand, mud, tall grasses, and everything else that would deter a normal mountain bike.

Q: Will there be people to show us around?
A: Yes, we have quite a few veterans of the Badlands that naturally lead these rides?

Q: What air pressure should I run?
A: I don’t know anything about your tires, rims, riding style or how much you weigh, so I don’t know the answer!

Q: Will there be beer?
A: We didn’t pull an alcohol permit, & that jack’s up the insurance rate for a free ride, so it will be BYOB if you want to have one.

Q: Can I cross the fences and ride the fun stuff on the other side?
A: Absolutely not, the fence separates he inactive mining site from the active mine site. Don’t ruin the opportunity by crossing it!

Q: What should I wear?
A: Clothes. Warning, this is a social ride, and most of the groups are only as fast as the slowest person. If you’re faster and part of a large group, expect to wait around a bit for the slower riders, dress warmer in this case so you don’t get cold waiting. If you’re slower…..then dress normally for the weather. 


  • It’s Been an Honor to Serve Our Trails!

    It’s Been an Honor to Serve Our Trails!

    I have been saying for several months that it’s time for me to step down as Chairperson. This week I had the honor to nominate Lisa Flores-Johnson as our new Chairperson – and the vote was unanimously in favor!  It’s been my honor to serve as chair for the last 5 years and I’ve been…

  • MCMBA FUNdamentals Mountain Bike Skills Clinic – 9/21

    MCMBA FUNdamentals Mountain Bike Skills Clinic – 9/21

    Date: Sunday Sept 21st, 2025Time: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PMLocation: Novi Lakeshore Park – Tree Farm (Pavilion #2 near soccer field)Fee: MCMBA Members $160, Non-Members $195 REGISTER HERE! Our clinics are designed to be inclusive and are open to all genders. Whether you’re a beginner seeking confidence on the trails or an intermediate rider aiming…

  • MCMBA Intermediate Mountain Bike Skills Clinic – 9/21

    MCMBA Intermediate Mountain Bike Skills Clinic – 9/21

    Date: Sunday Sept 21st, 2025Time: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PMLocation: Novi Lakeshore Park – Tree Farm (Pavilion #2 near soccer field)Fee: MCMBA Members $160, Non-Members $195 REGISTER HERE! Our clinics are designed to be inclusive and are open to all genders. We strongly recommend completion of a fundamentals clinic before taking this clinic tailored to…