It’s no mistake that Tahoe is home to bike culture. The rocky, rugged trails around the lake running up and down the peaks of the Sierra Nevada (the Tahoe Rim Trail, to name one) are perfect for mountain biking. And, the scenic, curving highway around the lake is perfect for road biking. So it makes sense that Truckee would be a great host for the Sagan Fondo bike race, coming May 3-5.
Peter Sagan is famous in the world of professional bike racing, with 103 wins to his name. Sagan rides both on- and off-road, and is known for being humble, talented on a bike, and apt to give back to charity. He’s will often ride in t-shirts and ditch the professional gear, and drink water instead of sports drinks during big races. This has created an endearing reputation for the talented rider. One could say this mimics the culture of Tahoe locals, where heart and determination are valued highly in athletics and outdoor exploration.
So, Tahoe is super excited to welcome the dirt/off-road segment of this bike event (which is a more of a fun, inclusive bike ride and less of a race), where bike enthusiasts will get to ride 64 miles of terrain alongside Peter Sagan, climbing 5,500 feet of elevation. Although riders will be scored, and awarded at the end, it’s a great place for bike enthusiasts of all ages to get immersed in the scene, riding or not.
A fundraising gala in support of at-risk-youth will take place May 3, and is a great time for supporters of riding to give back. On May 4, there’s a VIP pre-ride with Peter. Then, on May 5, it’s off to the official ride. Catch the beginning of the race in Truckee, sending off the riders. Or, greet them at the end of the ride along the Legacy Bike Trail.
Want to get in the spirit and enjoy the day with the family? On Saturday, May 5th, head to the Riverview Sports park in Truckee where there will be free and secured bike parking, kids zone, sponsors & local vendor booths, plus food & beer vendors. Watch the awards cermony at 2:30pm and cheer on your favorite riders. This is free and open tot he public.
Book your Truckee lodging and get ready for this exciting new bike festival in Truckee.
Want to ride, but just for fun? You can also rent bikes at lots of local locations around Tahoe, such as The Back Country in Truckee, and head to the Truckee Bike Park, where tracks of all difficulty ranges and sizes are open to a variety of riders.