The 19 riders of the Fat Bike trip around Chenango County gather for a group photo before hitting the snow covered trails on Sunday morning. Fat biking is a new winter activity that allows avid riders to still enjoy the sport despite the cold weather months. Another ride is planned for February. (Submitted Photo)

PHARSALIA – Over the weekend, 19 Fat Bikers from all over Central New York pedaled 15.5 miles in a ride through the woods and over the hills around the area.

A trip organized by Galena Growlers head coach Rob Baker, started at Camp Pharsalia – a former correctional facility in the Chenango County area – through the Pharsalia Statelands and ended at East Park in downtown Norwich. Of the 19 riders that started the ride, ten completed the full route while nine rode just over half way and turned back to head to the camp.

Fat Bikes are new winter sport phenomenon as it gives those who love to ride a chance to take their bikes out on the off months. The bikes sport tires from four to five inches in width and most have studded tires to counter the icy conditions hidden under the fresh, powdery snowfall.

Despite the cold temperatures Saturday, riders stated they were able to stay warm throughout. “Once you start pedaling, the human body produces a great amount of heat,” said Baker. “Many thought we would freeze but it was the complete opposite.”

Baker stated that another ride is already planned for sometime in February and all are welcomed to give the ride a try. The route for the ride next month is expected to be near 40 miles and is set to include Camp Pharsalia as a halfway point.

“I have to give a huge thanks to the local Chenango Sno-Riders snowmobile club that went out and groomed the nine-mile trail after Saturday’s snowstorm, making the trip possible,” said Baker. “Without the work put in by them, the event wouldn’t have been possible to do with the depth of the snow.

“All in all, it was a great ride with some great people. Many are already looking forward to the next one.”

For more information on the next ride, contact Baker via email at galenagrowlers@gmail.com.