After 5 years of not riding Iceman, I decided to get back in the game last year. But in the last few weeks leading up to race day, the indecision and obstacles started to build. And I started to wonder, should I race at all? Was I too far gone from that “old Kandy” – the girl I used to be?
The doubt started when I took my bike into Brick Wheels for some basic upkeep – and got the news that I was seconds from “catastrophic fail.” That’s a biggie, even for me. My back rim was cracked.
But they would put a rush on this part! They gave me a loaner bike! They consoled me, there in the dim light of October! They took away every obstacle…including a good DNF story in hindsight.
Next, I went to the SkyBridge with the family.
There, a woman hacked on me, and I watched with laser precision as my face, chest and head became clogged over the next week… as I rode that gorgeous rental that Brick Wheels had loaned me.
Between the two setbacks, I started wondering if this was a sign I should sit this one out. First my bike, now my body. Not to mention, had I really trained enough? It was never enough.
A tiny part of me also started to think, I am an excellent cheerleader.
By that Monday before Iceman, I was choosing my cheering spots – and getting antibiotics.
By Tuesday, I got my bike back. But the cheer around Brick Wheels did not match the cheer in my heart. The setbacks had put the brakes on my goals – and I doubted I should ride at all.
By Wednesday, the meds were kicking in… and I felt a little better. My tiny little Iceman heart started to wonder if I should at least go ride the finish… just to see it again.
By Thursday, I was riding the winding, twisting finish – and picking out the spots I might take a digger on if I wasn’t careful.
Then – out of nowhere – I got weepy.
Not because I might not race (some part of me was relieved I might not be racing at all), but because I was at Iceman again.
In that fencing, behind those gates, among that buzz in the air – after 5 years of not racing.
5 years! 5! F-i-v-e!
I thought of how much I’d gone through in those years, which had been a personal hell… but that’s where the happy tears were coming from.
Because I was there at all.
Because I saw that I was still me. I was still biker chick, sick and all. I was still here. And, I had spent a precious, gorgeous fall out in the woods – with the leaves below me and the sky above.
I don’t know if I have ever felt so thankful for my bike as I did in that moment.
Because I realized I had found my way back to my bike, despite all that had happened – the girl who took crap was gone, the girl who stood up for herself was in the chute, and the girl who loved to bike? She was back in the saddle, complete with a sparkly pink skirt over her spandex.
I knew then that I would race. Even if I had to limp it in (which I did – at one point in Iceman, I realized a LOT of people were checking me as they passed me by – “ARE YOU OK, MICHIGAN GIRL????”)
I knew I wanted to see this comeback Iceman through, regardless
Kandace Chapple is a writer and wrangles Michigan Girl, a women’s membership group that gathers to hike, bike and otherwise get out under that Michigan sky every other week. She can be reached at kandace@michgirl.com. Join her Facebook group for women at Michigan Girl Bike (& Hike!) Group.
It’s safe to say that we’re officially settling into spring up here in Northern Michigan (is it though?), and that means there’s even less excuses to grab that two-wheeler and start putting in the miles! Yet again I thought maybe I would talk about fitness and training programs, maybe nutrition as well, but find myself here on a Monday night really thinking about both the motivations to get out there, along with the “excuses,” and the reason(s) we put off that long ride early in the morning or a quick one during our lunch break. I really don’t think there is a wrong answer in terms of the “excuses” part; just simply put: life happens. But where do we interject and assert to ourselves that we aren’t going to let “life happen” and we’re going to get out there? Spoiler-alert: this is also a family appreciation post.
My uncle, who I’m also lucky to call a very good friend and an extremely trusted mentor once told my brother Erik and me right before we went off to college three things to live by: 1) Never miss out on a good time, 2) Never leave fun to find fun, and 3) You always remember the chances you don’t take (edited from its original for censorship purposes). While I’m pretty sure two out of the three don’t necessarily apply to biking (or maybe they do?), the third one even as a “slightly” different take from the original is something that we can all think about. We all know the famous quote from Wayne Gretsky: “you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” But, how many times can you look back at your life and say “man, I should’ve done that.” Hopefully not very many, but I don’t think there’s a single person who doesn’t have a few items on that list. The reality is, we all have to make a living for ourselves. You may have a family as well. Life is about keeping a bunch of plates spinning all at one time, while trying to fit in the things you love, the things that make you happy, and most importantly the things that make you feel like… you. So when you choose to get on the bike, hit the trail, or carve out 30 minutes for yourself, you’re not just training, you’re choosing joy. You’re saying “yes” to what matters to you.
In my first post I talked about the people around us who make it possible for us to do what we love. And coming off of Mother’s Day, I can’t help but give the biggest and most love-filled shoutout to my wife (and mother to our 3 year old) who lets me put in the time I need to feed not just the competitive nature that comprises a large chunk of who I am, but also just the general sense of happiness that riding gives me. I’m fortunate that she understands that part of me, but there are certainly times it’s not ideal with a young one in the house, and we navigate that together. But I think one of the fundamental aspects of being able to “get up and get out there” is knowing that the people in your circle believe in you. And not only do they believe in you, they love you and want to see you fulfilled. There are any moments where I’m in appreciation of the support, but man if there isn’t anything more powerful than wanting to work hard and do my best for them – I’ve had that thought almost regularly when cranking an out and back, or even just a loop around 25k so I can hit Anita… “embrace the suck, do it for you people.” Many don’t understand the obsession we (I’d guess 98% of you still reading this far) have with this sport, but I guarantee they recognize when something brings you absolutely joy and fulfillment. That kind of fulfillment is contagious, it lifts you up, and it lifts those around you too. The more you chase what lights you up, the more you radiate and attract positivity and happiness to those around you.
I’ve always been a believer that motivation is an emotion; it’s something that comes and goes. When we settle deep into comfort zones and complacency, it makes that emotion even more difficult to access. Like many of you, I grapple with that shifting emotion. Some days I just “don’t feel like it.” I referenced the book Do Hard Things by Steve Magness in my last blog, and let this serve as a reminder that “toughness” is not innate; it’s a skill that is trained, and most certainly earned. As a kid growing up, I remember hearing “discipline, discipline, discipline” from my coaches if I wanted to play at the next level… To the point where it’s really not appealing or “motivating” when typing that just now. But there is truth to it. When the emotion of motivation is not there, discipline is what gets you out there anyway. And when you make it part of your day, it becomes routine. I think once you have the routine figured out and commit to not breaking it (discipline enters the chat), you’re already shaving minutes off your 2025 Iceman time! I am so very lucky in the sense that I have people in my life who understand what it means for me, and that’s what keeps me going out… to get better for my people, to make them proud, and to be an example to our little man. To show him that we work hard, but we also have fun while doing it. Even on the hard days, even on the “don’t feel like it” days, you’re building something. And each effort, no matter how small, is a brick in the foundation of who you’re becoming.
So get out there. Get out there for the people in your “village,” and more importantly, get out there for you. You deserve it. You’re already crushing it just by having signed up. Now go turn that commitment into watts. Let’s ride bikes!
Thank you to Mark Daisy @markdaisymusic for being our 2025 Iceman Trailblazer.
The Iceman Cometh Challenge is one of the most thrilling and challenging races I’ve ever faced. From the tight singletrack to the big hills and sandy sections, it demands everything from endurance to technical skills and mental focus. What has made this race even more special for me is the community that comes with it. Having friends surrounding me, both on and off the course, has really helped boost my confidence and pushed me to keep going, no matter how tough things get. The encouragement from fellow riders and the shared goal of tackling the course together makes the experience even more rewarding.
Over the past few years, I’ve learned a lot about what works and what doesn’t when preparing for the race. In this post, I’ll share what has worked best for me when training for the Iceman, from building endurance to improving technical skills and strength, all leading up to race day.
Endurance Training
Endurance is the foundation for a successful Iceman ride. The 30-mile course requires you to keep pushing through tough terrain for two to three hours, depending on your pace. In the beginning, I would just do longer rides on the weekends with my stepbrother. We often rode the same route at 5 a.m. every Sunday, which felt somewhat boring, but we worked up to completing a 24-mile course at a 13.5 mph pace easily.
As I progressed, I added hill sprints and intervals into my rides, gradually increasing my speed. Since joining the MISCA team, I still go on long rides every weekend, but I’ve shifted from doing only long rides to steady, longer interval-based 45-minute base-building workouts. These have made a huge difference in improving my fitness. I appreciate that they’re shorter and easier to fit into my schedule.
My favorite base-building session looks like this:
5-minute warm-up at around 60 watts
Three sets of:
4 minutes of steady pedaling at 75 watts
2 minutes of harder effort at 85 watts
5-minute recovery
Then three sets of:
5 minutes of tempo effort at 75 watts
2.5 minutes of harder effort at 85 watts
5-minute recovery
In the first set, I stay on the lower side of my power target, and in the second set, I push a little above my target
Since joining the MISCA Devo team, I’ve been working on interval training to improve both endurance and speed. One of the sessions that really improved my speed was:
7-minute warm-up
3 repetitions of:
30-second sprint (85–90% of max effort)
30 seconds of gentle pedaling or coasting
5-minute recovery
5 repetitions of:
30-second sprint
30 seconds rest
10-minute recovery ride at moderate effort
5 more repetitions of:
30-second sprint
30 seconds rest
10-minute cooldown
Another one of my favorite training methods is hill repeats. I’ll go to Anita’s Hill and sprint up it, coast down, and repeat
Strength Training and Cross-Training
Strength training has become a key part of my routine, thanks to my MISCA coach. We focus on building functional strength and improving balance, stability, and mobility—all super important for handling the bike on rough terrain.
Some of the most helpful exercises I do include:
Lunges, squats, and deadlifts
Side-loaded lunges and squats
Overhead marches
Bridge variations and plank pillar holds
Hollow body holds and penguins
Banded reverse lunges and banded dead bugs
Rows, chest press, and tricep dips
For mobility, I’ve been doing:
Hip openers, frog squats, and figure 4 stretches
Leg swings, jumping jack variations, and skaters with a twist
Side bends, forward bends, scorpions, windshield wipers, and alternating one-leg hugs
These workouts have been both fun and really effective. They’ve helped improve my overall comfort on the bike, especially during long efforts and when handling rough terrain.
Recovery is just as important as the training itself. Eating right, foam rolling, and stretching are part of my routine and have helped me stay strong and injury-free.
I’ve also included cross-training to keep things interesting and challenge different muscle groups. Running and hiking have been great for building cardiovascular fitness, preparing me for the more demanding sections of the course. Even indoor rock climbing has helped improve my grip strength and balance, which definitely pays off on the bike.
Technical Skills for Tight Corners and Sand
The Iceman’s singletrack is tight, and mistakes can cost you precious time. Practicing cornering and bike handling was a big part of my training. I worked on leaning just my bike while keeping my knees wide and my weight centered, which helped me stay smooth through tricky turns. Riding the trails near Brighton, which are packed with roots and rocks, helped sharpen my skills. Even though the Iceman course doesn’t have rocks, those challenging trails forced me to improve my balance and control, making me faster and more confident overall.
To prepare for the sandy sections, I practiced riding loose gravel and sand pits at a local trail. The key was to keep my pedals turning and stay light on the handlebars to let the bike float through the deeper sections. This focus on smooth and controlled riding has made a big difference in my race prep.
Putting It All Together
In the final weeks before race day, I started combining everything: endurance, strength, and skills. I practiced race-pace rides that included hills, corners, and sand, simulating the Iceman conditions as closely as possible. These practice rides gave me the confidence to know I could handle whatever the course threw at me.
Training for the Iceman isn’t just about logging miles—it’s about building strength, mastering bike handling, and finding the mental focus to push through tough moments. The time and effort you put in will pay off when you cross that finish line, knowing you gave it your all.
Thank you to Kedzie Ruckle @noelkedzie for being our 2025 Junior Iceman Trailblazer!
November 2, 2024. Iceman. The last time I was on my bike, and little did I know, that ride would be my last for quite a while. Not because of an injury, just, well, life happened and maybe a little laziness was thrown in there too. Winter came in like a boulder, heavy and unrelenting, and my mind wasn’t in the right place. I had all these grand plans to keep up with my trainer sessions—aiming for 3 to 4 times a week—but, well, that didn’t quite happen. I ended up getting on my trainer three times from November to March. The thought of getting on the trainer became about as appealing as sticking bamboo shoots under my fingernails. But you know what? It’s okay for your plans to not always work out. It took me a while to realize that.
Seasonal Affective Disorder is very real—especially if you live in Michigan, where those gray days hit differently. This girl thrives on sunshine and warmth, so winter definitely takes a toll. I watched all my friends’ Zwifting away, and the Strava updates were flowing in daily. My bikes were staring at me, and the “that should be me,” thoughts were creeping in. The guilt and FOMO were real, and I couldn’t shake it. Eventually, I had an ugly cry to my husband. I just didn’t want to be on the trainer anymore. It is uncomfortable, and my ADD wasn’t letting me focus long enough to make it work. His response? “Do you not like biking anymore?” Excuse me, what? Absolutely YES, I love biking. You crazy.
Seasons of Life: A Lesson in Patience
Life has seasons, and sometimes, you’re not in the season you wish you were. This was one of those not-so-great seasons. But seasons change, right? Yes, they do. And eventually, mine did. In March, I finally got back on my gravel bike. I joined some friends for a ride on the Pumpkinvine Trail in Middlebury, IN. The weather was sunny, warm-ish, and I was filled with a renewed joy for cycling. We rode 28 miles, and yes, we celebrated with Dairy Queen afterward (because why not?). I felt like I had entered a new season—a season where cycling brought me joy again. Shortly after that, we had an unexpectedly warm 70-degree day, and it felt like the perfect opportunity for a solo MTB ride at Fort Custer. I had zero expectations for my fitness. I knew it wasn’t going to be great, but I figured I would give it a shot anyway. To my surprise, there were others out there panting just as hard as I was, which made me feel a little better. And despite my sub par fitness level, it wasn’t terrible. It wasn’t great either, but I had fun—and that’s what mattered.
The Takeaway: Embrace Your Own Journey
The biggest lesson I’ve learned through this whole experience is not to be too hard on yourself. It’s easy to get caught up in comparing yourself to others, especially when you feel like you should be keeping up with friends who are in a different season of life. But that’s okay. We all go through different seasons—some are great, and some are a bit harder to navigate. This winter, I traded being on my bike for getting on an airplane and spent some time chasing sunshine. The important thing is that you’ll find your joy again. It might take some time, but it’ll come back. And when it does, it will feel even sweeter than before. So, be unapologetically you. Embrace your own journey, wherever you are in life. Seasons change, and you’ll bounce back. Trust in that.
Thank you to Haleigh Curtis @curtishaleigh for being our 2025 Iceman Trailblazer!
One of the hottest topics in the Iceman Cometh Challenge Facebook group every year is tire choice and pressure. And for good reason—this race throws a little bit of everything at riders: fast gravel, sandy sections, hardpack singletrack, and unpredictable weather that can turn the course into anything from a dry, dusty speedway to a frozen, muddy mess.
With so many riders on different types of bikes—gravel rigs, full-suspension enduro machines, single speeds, and even the occasional fat bike—the question always comes up: What’s the best tire setup for Iceman? The answer? It depends. Let’s break down the pros and cons of various bike and tire setups and what they mean for your race day performance.
That said, tire pressure often matters just as much as tire choice. Too much pressure and you risk bouncing off roots and losing traction in sandy or muddy sections; too little and you might bottom out on rough patches or roll too slowly on the flats. Finding that sweet spot requires factoring in your weight, tire volume, trail conditions, and how aggressively you ride. Testing different pressures in advance—especially during pre-rides—can make a huge difference in comfort, control, and how much energy you save over those 30 grueling miles
Gravel Bikes: Speed Demons with a Catch
Gravel bikes are light, fast, and built to fly on hardpack and smooth gravel. Some riders love them for Iceman’s long open sections, but they come with trade-offs.
✅ Pros:
Fast rolling on the fire roads and hardpack trails
Lightweight frame for quick accelerations
More aerodynamic than a mountain bike
❌ Cons:
Sketchy in deep sand and loose corners
Limited tire width means less traction in muddy or wet conditions
Rough ride on rooty and rutted sections of singletrack
Tire Recommendations:
Maxxis Rambler (40mm) – Fast rolling with decent grip
Panaracer GravelKing SK (43mm) – Smooth center for speed, knobby edges for control
Schwalbe G-One R (40mm) – Great balance of speed and grip for mixed terrain
Lower pressure (35-40 PSI) to absorb some of the rougher sections
Hardtail MTB: The Goldilocks Choice?
Hardtails are one of the most common choices at Iceman for a reason. They offer speed and efficiency while still handling technical terrain well.
✅ Pros:
Lightweight and efficient for climbing and open sections
Handles sandy and loose conditions better than a gravel bike
More forgiving than rigid gravel setups
❌ Cons:
Can still be jarring on rougher sections
Requires good bike handling skills in technical spots
Tire Recommendations:
Schwalbe Racing Ray (Front) & Racing Ralph (Rear) (2.25”–2.35”) – Excellent combo for speed and grip
Maxxis Aspen (2.25”) – Fast-rolling with good cornering traction
Continental Race King (2.2”) – Low rolling resistance for hardpack
Ideal Pressure: 18-24 PSI for tubeless setups (adjust based on rider weight and conditions)
Full-Suspension MTB: Overkill or Secret Weapon?
Full-suspension bikes, especially longer-travel trail or enduro rigs, aren’t the most common Iceman choice, but some riders swear by them.
✅ Pros:
Maximum comfort over roots, rocks, and rough terrain
Better traction in corners and loose sand
Confidence-inspiring on technical descents
❌ Cons:
Heavier than a hardtail, which can make climbing and acceleration harder
Requires efficient pedaling to avoid wasted energy on suspension bob
Tire Recommendations:
Schwalbe Wicked Will (Front & Rear, 2.4”) – Fast rolling with great grip
Specialized Fast Trak (2.35”) – Good all-around XC tire
Ideal Pressure: 18-22 PSI to maximize grip and efficiency
Single Speed MTB: Simple, But Brutal
Some riders prefer the challenge (or the pain) of tackling Iceman with one gear. It forces you to keep momentum and pick the right lines—there’s no bailing yourself out with an easy spin up the climbs.
✅ Pros:
Lightweight and mechanically simple (no derailleurs to break!)
Forces efficient riding and pacing
Bragging rights for crushing Iceman without gears
❌ Cons:
No bailout gear for steep climbs
Tough on the legs if you pick the wrong gearing
Tire Recommendations:
Schwalbe Thunder Burt (2.25”) – Extremely fast rolling
Maxxis Ardent Race (2.35”) – Good grip without too much drag
Ideal Pressure: Slightly higher (20-24 PSI) to maintain momentum
Fat Bikes: The Wild Card
Every year, a handful of riders take on Iceman on fat bikes. While they’re not the fastest choice, they can be fun, especially if conditions are snowy or muddy.
✅ Pros:
Unmatched traction in sand, mud, and snow
Surprisingly comfortable over rough terrain
Turns heads and makes for an epic ride
❌ Cons:
Heavy and slow on hardpack sections
More rolling resistance means more effort to maintain speed
Tire Recommendations:
Schwalbe Jumbo Jim – Fast-rolling fat bike tire (what I raced on in 2024)
45NRTH Dillinger 4 – Fast-rolling fat bike tire with studs (optional)
Bontrager Barbegazi – Lightweight and fast for a fat tire
Ideal Pressure: 6-10 PSI for grip and comfort (adjust based on conditions)
My Go-To Setup: Schwalbe Racing Ray & Racing Ralph
I personally like Schwalbe tires for their balance of speed, grip, and durability. For Iceman, my recommended setup is:
Front:Schwalbe Racing Ray (2.25”) – Aggressive tread for cornering and confidence in loose terrain
Rear:Schwalbe Thunder Burt (2.25”) – Lightweight and extremely fast rolling, perfect for maintaining momentum
Pressure: 20 PSI front / 22 PSI rear for optimal performance
This combination gives great traction in the sand while still rolling fast on the hardpack, making it an excellent choice for Iceman’s mixed terrain.
Final Thoughts: Finding Your Best Setup
The best bike and tire setup really comes down to your riding style, fitness level, and how much you prioritize speed over comfort. If you’re chasing a personal best or looking to hang with the front pack, a lightweight hardtail with fast-rolling, low-profile tires—set at just the right pressure—can be a game changer. The efficiency and responsiveness of that setup let you power through climbs, carry speed on flats, and stay agile through the tight singletrack sections. On the flip side, if your goal is to soak in the experience and enjoy the grind, then anything from a full-suspension trail bike to a single speed or even a fat bike can turn the race into an epic, unforgettable ride.
No matter what rig you roll, tire pressure is one of the most important variables you can control. The terrain on the Iceman course is notoriously mixed, and small tweaks in pressure can make a big difference. Too much and you’ll feel every bump and struggle for grip in sand or mud. Too little and you risk sluggish rolling or rim strikes on rough patches. Taking the time to test different setups—especially on the course itself or similar sandy sections—helps dial in that perfect blend of speed, grip, and comfort. Don’t wait until race day to figure it out; a few test rides can go a long way.
Weather also plays a huge role, often changing the ideal setup from one year to the next. A dry, fast course favors narrower tires and higher pressures, while a wet, muddy year might call for something with more tread and a bit of forgiveness. Keep an eye on the forecast and be ready to adapt. Whether you’re chasing the podium or just chasing good vibes, the right tire setup can give you an edge—and make your Iceman experience that much better. So, what’s your go-to tire combo for Iceman? Drop it in the comments and let’s swap some knowledge.
Thank you Gerald Gaecke @g_dubs83_ for being our May guest blogger. You may recognize Gerald as he was one of our 2024 Iceman Ambassadors (Trailblazer)!
Hello to all my fellow racers. I’m incredibly honored to be chosen as a Trailblazer for Iceman 2025. November 8th will mark my fourth Iceman, and honestly, it can’t come soon enough.
When I sat down to write this first post, my mind bounced between so many topics: tires, hardtail or full suspension, nutrition, when to push, when to recover, when to burn a match. But as I kept thinking about all those details, it all came back to one simple word:
Love.
It’s love that gets us up at 4 a.m. on a freezing fall morning when most people are staying warm inside. It’s love that fuels the drive to get in the calories, pack the gear, and head to the airport. Love for the sport, for the challenge, for Iceman, and everything you earn the moment you cross that finish line.
From the adrenaline of the rollout and fighting for position before the singletrack, to picking lines that dodge the worst sand before Dockery. To the drums at Make It Stick, the cheers at Williamsburg Road, the grind up Woodchip, and the final push over Icebreaker Hill. We look forward to it all, not because it’s easy, but because we love this race. (And let’s be honest, having Bell’s Beer as a sponsor doesn’t hurt.)
As the year rolls on, we train. We learn. We get more in tune with our bikes, our bodies, and our minds. We notice what needs work and what’s improved. It’s a year-round process of tinkering, healing, growing all for one cold, glorious day in November, when we race as hard as we can to finish as fast as we can.
Family and friends often say we must be a little crazy to ride our bikes through the woods from Kalkaska to Traverse City…in November. My response? You might be right, but I love it.
Everything we put in the early mornings, the long rides, and the sore legs comes with support. Family and friends, spouses, pick up the slack so we can chase this passion. Without them, Iceman wouldn’t be what it is. So, thank you to everyone who helps us get out the door for a ride, a race, or the national holiday known as Iceman Day. Your support means everything, and it never goes unnoticed.
For most of us, Iceman is the end of the season A final chapter in a long book of training and racing. It’s a celebration of the effort, the struggle, the grit—and the reward is 5,000 friends, a finish line, and maybe a Bell’s or two.
May you get the wave you want. May the PRs come. Keep the rubber side down and I’ll see you in the woods.
Thank you to Chris Mutnansky @the_racing_ref for being our 2025 Iceman Trailblazer!
I came up with a list of topics to write about for this blog but thought there was no better time to discuss motivation than right now. I don’t know about you, but the shoulder season can be tough for me in terms of staying motivated to ride. As soon as winter hits and the time changes leaving us in darkness at 5pm, I feel my body go into hibernation mode. Rest is not a bad thing. A lot of the time our body actually needs time to recover and rest or else we may get burned out or cause an injury. And we all know there is nothing much worse than being forced off the bike because of an injury. However, there is still a struggle to stay motivated especially during the winter.
A few tips that have helped me stay motivated in the past include:
1) Have a workout buddy. It is extremely effective to have someone there to hold you accountable. It is much much harder to say no to a ride (or other activity) if you know a friend is there waiting on you. We don’t want to let our friends down, and let’s be honest, everything is more fun with friends!
2) Sign up for a race or event. Having a race or event in the near future is helpful to keep the motivation alive! Who wants to show up to a race with no training? Ouch.
3) Follow a training plan. My “A” race this year is Marji Gesick – 100 bike. I have a training plan that I am currently following on Training Peaks that gives me specific workouts every week. I enjoy checklists, so this is nice because when I complete the workout for the day, it feels like I am checking it off the list! A training plan will provide general (or specialized, pending the plan) guidance making it easier on you so you do not have to constantly be thinking about what you should be doing next.
4) Mix it up. Feeling burnt out with riding? Or more specifically sitting on the trainer in the winter? Do something different. Go to the gym and lift weights, run, swim laps at the local pool, take a weighted pack out on your favorite hiking trail, increase your step count for the day, join a fitness class, or do yoga. There are endless other ways to stay active when you are feeling unmotivated to hop on the bike. Cross training is very beneficial.
5) Watch or listen to something inspiring. If you are stuck on the trainer, watch a cool video of someone doing something you love or are interested in. Listen to a podcast or an audiobook to help the time move faster.
6) Set a goal for yourself. A goal that is achievable but only if you put some work in. Again, this takes me back to my love of lists and crossing things off. Once you set a goal, create smaller steps to meet it, then you can check it off the list once complete and move on to the next!
When all of these tips fail, know that it is absolutely OK to rest and listen to your body. If you are anything like me, you probably have a million other things going on at the same time and there is never enough time in a day to do all of the things we need to or want to do. Something has to give before we break. We can’t stay motivated all of the time and we don’t want to cause any burn out. So make sure to listen to how your body and mind are feeling and if the answer is rest, cozy into your couch and relax.
Thankfully, we are starting to see some nicer weather here in Northern Michigan and that always helps increase the motivation! Let’s get out and ride!
Thank you to Haleigh Dunn @life.with.haleigh for being our 2025 Iceman Trailblazer!
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!
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.
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)!
