What is "On Mountain Accompaniment"? An experienced Snowbiker will ride with you. There is no extra charge. Not only is this more fun, but many times they can share with you some of their favorite places to ride, and demonstrate some different riding styles. "On Mountain Accompaniment" can be invaluable to your experience. Just call ahead for scheduling. We highly recommend this service for all first timers. Why can't I rent a Snowbike® and learn on my own? Snowbikes are new to many ski resorts. Due to safety concerns, resorts were initially reluctant to allow snowboards when that sport was first introduced. At Front Range Snowbikes we desire to establish and maintain a good reputation for safety and the respect of other skiers. Positive vibes at the resorts will assure enthusiasts that Snowbiking will become as normal to the ski environment as any other mode of skiing. Let us give you a full demonstration. You will have a better understanding of the sport, and have more fun. The next time you rent, you can get right on slopes. You guarantee success? Yes! What we guarantee, is that in 1 day on the slopes (often less), you will be able to Snowbike® with confidence. We define this as competent, controlled riding, on groomed slopes. Although all required instruction is given off slope, "On Mountain Accompaniment" can be scheduled if you like. Just call ahead for scheduling. Can you help with accommodations? We can give you some suggestions on where to stay. Call or email us to ask about our favorite places. What resorts allow Snowbikes? Currently there are 4 resorts to choose from in the Front Range. Winter Park, Copper Mountain, Keystone, and Arapahoe Basin. Some resorts have different rules concerning skibikes. Just let us know where you are going and we will make sure you know the ropes. Are Snowbikes safe? On a Snowbike® you actually have 4 points of contact with the ground. You are sitting down, and therefore have a much shorter way to fall (if you do). Most people don't fall at all! There are risks, as there are with any activity. We believe Snowbiking is safer than skiing or snowboarding. Is it hard to learn? It is extremely simple. We think it is so simple that we guarantee your success. (see FAQ #3) How do you stop? Essentially the same as on skis or snowboards. By edging into the mountain, perpendicular to the slope. Speed is controlled with turns. Don't worry, it is simple to learn and we will explain everything during your demo. Can kids ride Snowbikes? Yes! Snowbikes are an excellent way to learn the skills and get comfortable on the mountain. Currently we have no age limit, but can only accomodate kids 5ft tall and taller. We are considering adding bikes for younger kids (as young as 4yrs). If you have a child in this age group, and are interested in Snowbiking, let us know. We need a show of interest before adding this equipment to our fleet. Aren't Snowbikes slow and boring? Well... the speed record is over 103mph. The truth is, you can ride any way you like. Take a gentle cruise on a groomer, carve like a pro racer at high speed, or rip through the bumps on a mogul run. You decide. They are even fun in deep powder. How heavy are they? Our bikes weigh less than 16 pounds. Transport is easy and using the lifts is no problem. How do you get them up the mountain? You take the lift just like everyone else. Our bikes work with chairs, gondolas, and T-bars. On most chairs the bike will hang on the side with very little effort. Don't worry, it is simple to learn and we will explain everything during your demo. How do I get them to the resort? The Snowbike® requires no special racks or equipment to transport. They compress to an amazingly small size, and can even fit in the trunk of a small car. Is it O.K. to squeal with glee while going down the mountain? Of course. You can even shout out "WooooHoooo!" if you want. ( I did on my first ride.) Do you have other questions? Call or email us. We would be glad to help you learn about this exciting new sport!
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