A snow bike, also known as a fat bike, is a type of bicycle specifically designed to ride on snow-covered terrain, sand, or other soft surfaces. These bikes are characterised by their oversized tires, which are much wider than those on traditional bicycles. The wide tyres allow for better flotation over soft, loose, or slippery surfaces like snow, sand, mud, and even some rocky terrains.
Key features of snow bikes (fat bikes) include:
Wide tires: Fat bikes are equipped with tires typically ranging from 3.8 inches to 5 inches or more in width. The large volume and low tire pressure enable them to "float" on top of soft surfaces, providing better traction and stability.
Rigid frames or suspension: Some snow bikes have rigid frames, while others might have front suspension forks to absorb shocks and improve ride comfort on rougher terrains.
Lower tire pressure: Riders often use lower tire pressures compared to traditional bikes to increase the tire's footprint and improve traction on soft surfaces.
Wide rims: The wider rims on fat bikes accommodate the wide tires and provide additional support for riding on challenging terrain.
Snow bikes are popular among cyclists who enjoy riding in winter conditions, on snowy trails, or in areas where regular bikes might struggle due to the terrain. They've gained popularity not only in snowy regions but also in various off-road cycling disciplines due to their capability to handle diverse surfaces with improved stability and traction.