Author: Iceman Cometh Challenge

Greetings all of you Iceman LEGENDS!

I’m excited to be a part of the Iceman ambassador program and to be a guest blogger in 2025. This year will mark my 6th Iceman appearance, and I stand firmly in saying it’s the best party in the woods with 5000+ people doing hard things on their bikes.

As I started typing this, I initially thought I’d talk about kicking off the season and getting your “race legs” under you early in the year—my undergraduate and grad school studies were focused on exercise physiology; so I thought that might be a great topic to share some insight on. However, my mind shifted quickly after I typed that line above: “doing hard things.” The beauty and the magic of Iceman lay within its wide range of individuals—national (and global) cycling professionals, the serious amateurs, the moderate and beginner amateurs, and of course the “joyriders” just out there to do something hard while crushing some snacks (and maybe a cold one or two) on course. Each of these cohorts make Iceman what it is: a place for everyone to thrive in whatever way that looks like to them.

One of our good friends (Pauly H.) turned my wife and me onto a book by Steve Magness called “Do Hard Things.” Without giving away the book (because I highly recommend everyone read it), the general concept is that toughness is a skill, not a personality trait. It can be trained like anything else. True resilience is about psychological flexibility, not stoicism. If you’ve attended Iceman in any form, then you’ve seen this on display at every skill level—including our local friends sending it over “Make It Stick” last year… EPIC. *Shoutout to TP*

In reflecting on this, it brings to mind the big question: Why do 5000 people (and another 5000+ of their friends) show up the first weekend in November to ride a mountain bike race that starts at 9am in temps as low as 29°F? The answer? It’s personal. That’s what makes Iceman so special. Every rider has a different reason for showing up—and every one of those reasons is valid. Whether you’re chasing a podium, hammering to beat your PR, high-fiving strangers while rocking jorts and a banana costume, or just soaking in the wild energy of a race that’s as much festival as formal, you’re doing it right. There’s no “correct” way to race Iceman, other than to enjoy the hell out of it. We all ride this thing a little differently—but what unites us is the energy we bring to the trail and the community that is built around it. I’ve been fortunate to race around our amazing state, and even more so fortunate to have done a few races around the country, and I can confidently say that not a single one compares in energy to Iceman. I can’t speak for what a UCI World Cup is like or anything of the sort (I’m very much somewhere between the moderate and serious amateur rider), but I get the chills every time I come cranking up Woodchip and Icebreaker and see all the people cheering, handing out dollar bills, and looking for high-fives along the gates. That is this community. No ego and no selfishness; just positivity, support, and literally the best vibes in the woods. 

Firecracker 50 MTB Race – Breckenridge, CO

So whether you’re already deep into your training plan or just beginning to ruminate on what costume to wear, just remember: Iceman is what you make it. It’s fast, it’s fun, it’s chaotic, and it’s unforgettable. Let’s keep it positive, keep it rowdy, and make 2025 the best year yet. I’m looking forward to sharing more with you all throughout the 2025 season!

See you all in the woods.

Thank you to Mark Daisy @markdaisymusic for being our 2025 Iceman Trailblazer!

OK, you registered for Iceman. Now what?

So you did it. You hit that register button for Iceman. Maybe it was a moment of pure excitement, maybe your friends peer-pressured you, or maybe you blacked out and woke up to a confirmation email. Either way, you’re in. Now what?

Iceman is the biggest one-day mountain bike race in the country and November might feel like a long way off, but trust me, the work starts now. Whether this is your A race or just another stop on your adventure calendar, having a plan is what separates a solid ride from an epic one.

Is Iceman your big goal for the year, or are you just here for the party? Are you aiming for a PR, trying to beat your riding buddy, or just hoping to survive and grab that Bell’s beer at the finish? Knowing your goals now will help shape your training plan. If this is your A race, you’re gonna want to be dialed in. If it’s more of a fun challenge, you might approach things a little looser, but still, a little prep goes a long way.

Iceman might be in November, but your fitness starts now. Summer is the perfect time to work on endurance, test your fueling strategies, and find fun ways to push your limits.

For me, summer means long gravel rides and lots of coaching with the West Michigan Coyotes team. It’s all about building that endurance base while keeping things fun. You don’t have to be in race mode all summer, but mixing in some good, hard efforts will pay off when you’re sprinting up those punchy Iceman climbs.

Racing or just participating in events is one of the best ways to stay motivated and test your legs. There are tons of great gravel races, mountain bike races, and group rides throughout the summer that can help you build fitness while keeping things fresh. Plus, nothing simulates race day nerves and effort like, well, actually racing.

Don’t be the person panic-buying new tires and testing gels for the first time in October. Use the summer to figure out what works for you…bike setup, tire pressure, fueling, hydration, and even clothing choices. Iceman weather is unpredictable (never forget mudman!), but the more dialed-in your gear is, the better your chances of having a great ride no matter what the weather throws at you.

At the end of the day, we do this because we love it. Ride with friends, explore new trails and find ways to keep the stoke high all summer long. Training doesn’t have to be serious all the time. Sometimes the best preparation is just getting out and riding because you love it.

Got questions about training, gear, or race day strategy? Drop a comment and let’s do a Q&A.

A huge thank you to Tobi Tungl @tobitungl for Tobi’s Tips!

Tobi is a passionate mountain biker and ultra endurance gravel cyclist who thrives on pushing his limits in the great outdoors. He has a deep appreciation for nature, savoring the scenic views and challenges of unpaved singletrack trails and long gravel routes. Tobi’s passion for adventure drives him to constantly seek out new ultra endurance gravel races and mountain bike events that take him on new dirt roads. He has participated in the Iceman Cometh Challenge for over a decade. When not hitting the trails or grinding away the miles on gravel, Tobi enjoys camping trips with his family. He is also actively involved with the West Michigan Coyotes youth mountain bike team, where he coaches and rides alongside his daughter, fostering her love for the sport. The solitude of the trails and the invigoration of conquering an ultra-endurance race is what fuels his obsession with mountain biking and gravel cycling.

The Snow is melting. Let’s rip!

Hey all you would-be Iceman Cometh champions! I’m pumped to be back for a guest blog, and this time, we’re talking about racing on a new bike.

This year, I finally moved up from the fat bike life to a proper 29’er. Not just one—I’ve got both a hardtail and a full suspension in the stable. For Iceman, though, I’m rolling with the hardtail. Actually, I’m building it to be an Iceman ripper!

Now, don’t get me wrong—I love my fat bike. Racing it over the past two years has been an absolute blast. I’ve pushed that thing to its limits, and honestly, past what I can handle. Lately, I’ve found myself crashing more and breaking parts left and right. So, I finally took the dive into the 29’er life. My fat bike isn’t going anywhere, but it’s retiring from XC and gravel duty. From here on out, it’s my snow and chill-riding machine.

Switching bikes is exciting… and a little terrifying. The hardtail isn’t even finished yet. Right now, it’s mostly serving as my trainer bike, but I’m hoping to get it dialed in enough to race some gravel events this spring. That’s the exciting part—new bike, new setup, something fresh to tinker with alongside my kids, and a new ride to shred my usual trails. But the scary part? Will it be worth it? Will I really get used to the new gearing in time?

I mean, switching gears (literally and figuratively) takes time. When I bumped my fat bike from a 32T to a 34T chainring, it took me almost a year and a half to really settle in. Now, my hardtail is rocking a 36T up front—a huge jump from my full suspension’s 32T. That’s a big difference in gearing, and I’ll need to adapt fast. It’s not just about spinning the legs; it’s about getting the feel for when to power through and when to hold back. That extra torque might help on the flats, but will it leave me gassed on the climbs?

So, why race the hardtail when I’ve been logging more miles on my full suspension? Simple—weight. Iceman has some gnarly singletrack, but I don’t think you need full squish to have fun out there. The hardtail lets me play through the singletrack while cranking up the diesel power on the two-track and gravel sections—those are the spots where you can really put the hammer down and gain time. Less weight means more efficiency, and over 30+ miles, every bit of saved energy counts.

That said, just because I can attack on the open sections doesn’t mean I get to slack in the singletrack. I need to focus on climbing and staying nimble. A higher top speed is great, but it also means I’ll have to shift more strategically to tackle the climbs and tighter trails. It’s a lot to think about, but that’s all part of the fun, right?

Training-wise, I’ve been putting in solid miles—long endurance rides, punchy hill repeats, and plenty of time working on technical handling. The more time I spend on the hardtail now, the better I’ll be when it matters. Iceman is as much about preparation as it is about raw power, and I want to make sure I’m dialed in before I hit that start line.

So, we’ll see how it all shakes out! If all goes well, this bike will be my ticket to a fast, fun, and maybe even PR-worthy race. If not, well, there’s always next year, right?

I’m excited for Iceman this year—the new kit colors look amazing! So much so that my wife even said she might have to grab a hoodie and some socks. As for me, I’ve got my eye on that zip jersey and long-sleeve hoodie jersey and bibs!. Can’t wait for November to be partying in the woods with 5,000 of my best friends!

See you all at the start line—let’s rip it up! ~ G

Thank you Gerald Gaecke @g_dub83_ for being our April guest blogger. You may recognize Gerald as he was one of our 2024 Iceman Ambassadors (Trailblazer)!

Winter Training for the Iceman Cometh

It may be February, and the Iceman Cometh race is still 10 months away, but the training never stops. Staying in shape during the colder months becomes a key focus for many riders, and I’ve had my fair share of winter training setups. From the days of rollers with sensors to now having a dedicated bike with a Wahoo KICKR Snap smart trainer, my training methods have evolved. No matter how you train, the goal remains the same: staying strong and motivated when the temperature drops, and the snow starts to fall. Here’s a bit of insight into how I’ve navigated the transition and stayed on track, along with a fun twist to keep things fresh.

The Roller Era: Zwift and Spinning Up My Cadence

For a while, my training setup was all about the rollers. It wasn’t the flashiest or the most high-tech, but it was effective. I mounted my bike on a set of rollers with sensors that estimated power, cadence, and speed. To make it more engaging, I connected the rollers to Zwift, and it quickly became my go-to indoor training tool. Zwift added a virtual world element to my sessions, pushing me to keep my cadence high as I navigated digital roads and courses.

One of the biggest benefits I got from this setup was the improvement in my cadence and endurance. The rollers forced me to keep a smooth, consistent pedal stroke, while the sensors estimated my power output. However, the power estimates weren’t always spot-on. At times, I’d find myself spinning as fast as I could just to climb a small hill in Zwift, which made it feel like I was pushing way harder than necessary. But despite the occasional hiccups with sensor accuracy, it still helped me build endurance, and I could push through longer, harder efforts than I might have otherwise.

The Smart Trainer Upgrade: KICKR Snap

Fast forward to today, and my winter training game has been kicked up a notch with the addition of a dedicated bike paired with a Wahoo KICKR Snap. The smart trainer offers more advanced metrics, like virtual courses, and it connects to apps like Zwift and TrainerRoad for a more immersive experience. Not only does it keep me in the right physical shape, but it’s also more engaging—especially on those days when I don’t feel like braving the cold or the snow.

The KICKR Snap allows me to simulate real-world conditions, which is invaluable when preparing for the Iceman race. With its adjustable resistance, I can replicate the tough climbs and challenging conditions of the course, which makes for more specific, race-prep training. Plus, it tracks my power output with incredible precision, ensuring I’m maximizing every workout.

Outdoor Fun on the Fat Bike

Even with the convenience of indoor training, I always try to get outside when I can—especially for those cold winter rides with friends. There’s something about hitting the trails on my fat bike that makes those chilly mornings a lot more bearable. Not only does riding outside give me a mental break from the trainer, but it also adds a fun social element. Riding with friends brings an entirely different level of motivation to the table, and honestly, it’s one of the best ways to keep the winter blues at bay.

Plus, those outdoor rides on my fat bike are a great way to maintain bike handling skills and get a bit of fresh air—essential when you’re staring down a race as demanding as Iceman. Riding on snow-packed trails, adjusting to varying terrain, and staying in control on slippery surfaces all contribute to building confidence and strength that you can’t always get from indoor training.

Winter Training Tips for the Iceman Community

As we gear up for Iceman, staying motivated during the winter months can be tough. But with the right approach, we can make it fun and effective. Here are a few tips I’ve picked up along the way:

1. Mix Indoor and Outdoor Sessions: Whether you’re using rollers, a smart trainer, or both, make sure to get outside when conditions allow. It’s not only more fun, but it also helps break up the monotony of indoor training.

2. Find Your Tribe: Winter training doesn’t have to be done solo. Grab some friends and hit the trails together on your fat bikes. It makes the cold more tolerable and adds a social dimension that keeps you motivated.

3. Gear Up Properly: Don’t skimp on gear for winter rides. Make sure you have the right clothing to stay warm, dry, and comfortable. Consider investing in quality base layers, insulated gloves, and a good jacket to keep you riding through the toughest conditions.

4. Focus on Specificity: Whether on a smart trainer or outdoor ride, focus your training on the demands of the Iceman race—particularly the climbs and endurance. Adjust resistance levels on the trainer or ride longer, steeper hills outside to mimic race conditions.

5. Stay Positive and Have Fun: Winter training can feel like a grind, but it doesn’t have to be. Remember to mix up your workouts and make them as enjoyable as possible. You’re not just training for a race—you’re preparing for a great adventure, and that’s something to celebrate!

Your Winter Training Wisdom

So, fellow riders, I want to hear from you! What are your best winter training tips? Whether it’s gear advice, indoor workouts, or how to push through the cold, share your insights in the

comments below. Let’s help each other stay motivated and crush those winter goals together!

Iceman Cometh Challenge Rider Radio – Season 2 : Episode 5

Joining us today is Tom White, the keeper of the trails and leader of legendary unmarked Vasa rides. Tom has dedicated countless hours to preserving, building, and maintaining the trails that make our community a mountain biking haven. We’ll explore Tom’s journey, his passion for trail stewardship, and his insider insights on preparing for the upcoming Iceman Cometh race. If you love the trails, you’ll love hearing from Tom White!

Also joining the podcast is Chad Schut (Iceman Historian)! Chad Schut (@bunkerhillbikes) • Instagram photos and videos

Rider Radio – S2 : E5

Huge shout out to our 2024 Iceman Cometh Challenge Podcast hosts Alex Primeau @ajspartan92 and Shannon Kochis @sklove4

Iceman Cometh Challenge Rider Radio – Season 2 : Episode 4

Rider Radio – S2:E4

Podcasters Alex Primeau and Shannon Kochis chat with Brian Zajac (mihucker24) from the Pedal Progression Podcast (@pedal_progressions_podcast).  Check it out and gain some inspiration for next week’s race!  

Huge shout out to our 2024 Iceman Cometh Challenge Podcast hosts Alex Primeau @ajspartan92 and Shannon Kochis @sklove4

Iceman Cometh Challenge Podcast – Season 2, Episode 3

Join podcasters Alex Primeau and Shannon Kochis as they chat with local legend in the making Emma Schwab, GLORI rider and all-around female badass, about her past Iceman adventures, multiple Mountain Bike National Championships, and everything in between.

Rider Radio: Season 2 / EP 3

Thank you to our 2024 Iceman Cometh Challenge Podcast hosts Alex Primeau @ajspartan92 and Shannon Kochis @sklove4

Embrace Your Uniqueness: The Power of Being Yourself in Cycling and Life

As I sit here reflecting on my journey through the world of cycling, I can’t help but feel grateful for the lessons learned and the growth experienced along the way. One of the most significant revelations I’ve had is the importance of embracing my uniqueness both on and off the bike. In a sport where trends and gear can sometimes overshadow individuality, it’s crucial to remember that true strength and fulfillment come from staying true to yourself.

For years, I rode a freestyle 20″ BMX bike on trails, often surrounded by riders on traditional mountain bikes. At first, I felt a twinge of self-consciousness, wondering if my unconventional choice of bike was hindering my ability to keep up. But as I gained confidence in my skills and trusted in my own capabilities, I realized that it wasn’t about the bike I rode or the clothes I wore—it was about the joy and freedom I felt while riding. I learned to appreciate the agility and maneuverability of my BMX, using it to navigate tight corners and technical terrain with finesse.

Transitioning to a fat bike for year-round riding was another opportunity to embrace my uniqueness. While some may have questioned my decision to ride a fat bike on trails, I remained steadfast in my belief that it was the right choice for me. Sure, there were moments of doubt and uncertainty, especially when faced with steep climbs or challenging conditions. But with each pedal stroke, I grew stronger and more confident, proving to myself that I was capable of overcoming any obstacle.

Throughout my journey, I’ve come to understand that comparison is the thief of joy. When we constantly measure ourselves against others, we rob ourselves of the opportunity to celebrate our own achievements and progress. Whether I’m riding with friends or racing against competitors, I focus on giving my best effort and staying true to who I am as a rider. I’ve learned to trust in my instincts and abilities, knowing that my uniqueness is what sets me apart and makes me a strong rider.

So to all the fellow cyclists out there, I encourage you to embrace your uniqueness with pride. Whether you’re riding a BMX, a fat bike, or anything in between, remember that it’s not about fitting in—it’s about standing out and being true to yourself. Trust in your abilities, celebrate your victories, and never underestimate the power of being yourself in cycling and in life.

Thank you to our 2024 Iceman Cometh Challenge Ambassador Gerald Gaecke @geraldgaecke

Iceman Cometh Challenge Podcast – Season 2

Hello Iceman Nation!  We have this month’s podcast ready for you to enjoy and get inspired for the upcoming Iceman Cometh Challenge!  Before we get into the podcast, we would like to introduce our 2024 Iceman Cometh Challenge hosts! 

Returning for a second year is Alex Primeau! Alex is a passionate mountain biker and a lover of all things cycling, from hitting the local trails with friends to exploring new routes and pushing his limits on two wheels.

As a volunteer at Norte Youth Cycling Club, Alex loves helping young riders discover the joy and excitement of mountain biking. He’s also a big believer in the power of bikes to heal and bring people together.

Alex has tackled some challenging races in the past, including Marji Gesick 100 and winning Iceman singlespeed.  His favorite rides are getting dropped at Out n’ Backs and dawn patrol on the Old Mission Peninsula.

His most memorable ride to date was in the Northern Michigan woods where he proposed to his now wife, while she was still on the bike.

Alex once ate an entire 5-pound bag of Albanese gummy bears in one sitting. He loves exploring with his dog, Koda, singing karaoke, playing pool and Settlers of Catan. 

Alex’s love for all things cycling shines through in every episode of the Iceman Cometh podcast. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a new to the mountain bike scene, tune in and discover why cycling is more than just a sport – it’s a way of life.

Joining Alex this year is Shannon Kochis.  Shannon is a local mom, business owner and a fellow racer in the Traverse City Cycling Community.  

Shannon takes advantage of any free time that comes her way and shoots out to the VASA for some fresh air and hero dirt. The Vasa is her favorite place to be, especially with the mix of 2-track and Singletrack options.

“Racing is fun, but enjoying the community around the rides and races is my favorite part of riding bikes”, says Shannon.

We are excited to have Alex and Shannon kick off the season with our first podcast host, Chad Schut!  Head on over to the podcast and get out on the trails!

Rider Radio: Season 2 / Episode 1

Thank you to our 2024 Iceman Cometh Challenge Podcast hosts Alex Primeau @ajspartan92 and Shannon Kochis @sklove4.

Iceman Podcast

Looking for something to listen to while you are training for the Bell’s Iceman Cometh Challenge presented by Trek? We now have got you covered! Presenting Rider Radio, The Iceman Cometh Challenge Podcast! This podcast is made by Iceman Riders for Iceman Riders. Kicking off the first episode strong with the 2022 Pro Men’s Ice Champion, Alexey Vermeulen, and the founder of the Iceman Cometh Challenge, Steve Brown. This week’s hosts and Iceman riders Alex Primeau and Matt Haase talk with our guests about all things Iceman. We hope you enjoy the perfect listening for your time in the woods.  

New episodes published monthly. Listen & download the podcast here or find us on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

*Please be patient if you can’t find the podcast on all listening channels yet we are new to the podcast game and are getting it uploaded and verified as fast as we can.  

Rider Radio: Podcast