Just a short distance from the sprawl and craziness of Los Angeles, the city of Big Bear Lake sits in the San Bernardino National Forest at an altitude of 6,750 and far removed from the fast-paced city below. Because of the mountain town’s accessibility to endless miles of trails, and quiet roads, it’s become the de-facto cycling capital of Southern California and has also hosted multiple Amgen Tour of California stages.
This weekend, the ninth edition of theTour de Big Bear will bring 2,200 cyclists and their families up the mountain to ride one of five route options that range from the pleasant 25-mile loop around Big Bear Lake, all the way up to the “Hors Category”, or HC 125-mile route. That particular route includes timed climbs and ascent of the 8,500-foot high Onyx Summit from both sides and is renowned for attracting some of the strongest racers in the region.
Over the years the Tour de Big Bear has grown into one of the largest gran fondo events in the state thanks to the combination of scenic routes and just enough challenge to make everyone happy to be climbing off their bike by the end. All of the courses enjoy a lap around the gorgeous Big Bear Lake that includes rolling terrain and twisty roads. From there, the longer routes continue on to tackle some of the area’s most popular climbs before returning to The Village where the post-ride festivities will be held.
We’ll be back out supporting the event, both with a booth in the expo and participating in the ride. At the booth, we’ll have our new individual samples available for those looking to experience Performance & Recovery Lotion for the first time during a big day on the bike in Big Bear.