Planning a trip to Angel Fire Bike Park was both exciting and a bit daunting, especially because it would be our first time taking adaptive cycles to a downhill park. The logistics of loading and riding with Bowhead Reach cycles were entirely new to us. Riders with spinal cord injuries (SCI) needed to transfer from the chair lift to the cycle and vice versa, adding an extra layer of complexity to our adventure. Thankfully, the process was smoother than anticipated. The Bowhead Reach cycles were easy to secure on the lift with just a couple of straps, and riders followed on the next chair, allowing them to seamlessly transfer at the summit.
This experience wouldn’t have been possible without the dedicated support of our volunteer mountain bike crew and the Enchanted Circle Trail Association. Their assistance made a world of difference, helping ensure that everything ran smoothly and safely.
When it comes to downhill riding, the Bowhead Reach is our go-to adaptive cycle for good reason. Its articulating front end and top-tier braking system are essential for navigating the challenging trails at Angel Fire. Only experienced adaptive riders should consider taking on this type of riding at the park.
During our visit, we rode all the green-rated trails, including Easy Street, Chipmunk, Combi, and Duchess. These provided a fun, flowing experience for our group. We also tackled several blue-rated trails, which offered a more technical and thrilling ride, requiring even more skill. The blue trails we conquered included Ziggy, Diesel, Turbo Diesel, Boulder Dash, Unleaded, High Octane, Lemonade, Sierra, and Jazz Hands. These man-made trails were full of banked turns, jumps, and an excellent design that made the entire experience incredibly rewarding.
Though the lift carries you uphill, don’t be fooled. Riding downhill is still a full-body workout! Shifting your weight through the turns keeps you engaged and ensures you feel the ride long after the day is done.
