By Aaron Theisen
Cover photo courtesy of Wheel Sport
There’s a new way to ride the slopes this season. SNO-GO ski bikes, also known as ski bikes or snow bikes, mimic the motions of advanced skiers but are easy as riding a bike. SNO-GO ski bikes allow riders of all ages and abilities to experience the euphoria of effortlessly gliding down a snow-covered slope. Whether you’re an advanced skier or snowboarder looking for a new sport or a non-skier looking to embrace winter, discover the fastest-growing snow sport this season at Silver Mountain Resort or 49 Degrees North Resort with a rental SNO-GO ski bike from Spokane’s Wheel Sport Bikes.
If you’ve ridden a bike, you can ride a snow bike. SNO GO ski bikes handle just like a bicycle. And less time learning the basics means more time having a blast. The low center of gravity and three-ski platform make ski bikes safe and stable in any ski terrain. And unlike skis and snowboards, a SNO GO rider’s feet are not strapped in. It’s easy to get on and off, and easy to bail out if needed. Ski bikes provide an exciting, easily accessible way to explore the outdoors.
Where to Hit the Slopes with a Ski Bike
Currently, only Silver Mountain Resort and 49 Degrees North Mountain Resort allow the use of ski bikes on their chairlifts (rented from Wheel Sport or owned by you as no rentals are available on-mountain), but other ski areas may soon accommodate this growing sport. The SNO-GO ski bike rentals available at Wheel Sport have been designed to be lift-friendly and are as easy to load as skis and snowboards. Simply approach the lift with your ski bike like you would with skis or a snowboard, let the chair slide underneath the lift bar on the bike while you hold the handlebars and put the bike in between your legs. When first visiting a resort, Wheel Sport recommends checking with the lift operators for any unique lift protocols they may have for ski bikes. The lift operator can assist you with positioning the bike on the chairlift too.
Gearing Up for a Day of Ski Biking
Similar to any outdoor activity, ski biking carries inherent risk, but it is not necessarily more dangerous than skiing or snowboarding. In fact, the seated position and lower center of gravity can provide more stability and control, potentially reducing the risk of certain types of falls or injuries. However, as with any sport, proper instruction, adherence to safety guidelines, and the right equipment will make all of the difference. When gearing up for a day of snow biking, dress for a day outside in the winter like you would for skiing or snowboarding, with gloves, a helmet, weather-appropriate layers, and wind and water-resistant jacket and pants. It’s also widely recommended to wear snowboard boots, although sturdy winter boots can work as well. Ski boots are not advised!
Trying a SNO-GO Ski Bike Made Easy
Ready to give it a try? Stop by or call one of the Wheel Sport Bikes shops (Spokane Valley and South Hill) to reserve your rental. A full-day rental of a SNO-GO SHIFT is $100, or you can rent one for a week for $375. Wheel Sport also rents helmets. Each person 18 years and older planning to ride the snow bike will need to fill out a waiver as well (parents can sign for their kids under 18). More info and a link to the waiver you can print out in advance is at Wheelsportbikes.com. Once you’re ready to go, the SNO-GO Shift bike separates into three sections for easy transport up to Silver Mountain or 49 Degrees North. The SNO-Go can put some wow in your winter as you experience the euphoria of gliding down a snowy mountain on a bike with skis. Learn more at Wheelsportbikes.com.
