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. 


  • 2013  Volunteer Summary

    2013 Volunteer Summary

    On behalf of the thousands of area mountain bikers who enjoy our trails, I’d like to give a huge thanks! to our members who made it possible. In 2013, 120 volunteers recorded 2057 hours of volunteer time in our chapter, most of it doing boots on the ground trailwork. A special thanks goes to our…

  • Michigan Bicycling Expo

    Michigan Bicycling Expo

    The Michigan Mountain Biking Association is teaming up with The League of Michigan Bicyclists and the Michigan Trails & Greenways Association to present the first annual Michigan Bicycling Expo! When: January 26, 2014 Where: Michigan State University Pavilion 4301 Farm Lane, East Lansing, MI 48824 The Michigan Bicycling Expo is open to the general public.…

  • MDOT Cycling Survey

    MDOT Cycling Survey

    The Michigan Department of Transportation is conducting a research project that will attempt to quantify the economic and community benefits of bicycling in Michigan. Part of this project is a detailed online survey on your cycling and spending habits and contributions to the Michigan economy. http://surveymonkey.com/s/MDOTsurvey So many of us spend thousands each year biking,…