Once again, the Chainless World Championships was incredible. Crested Butte and visitors for Bike Week came out in force, in an event that sold out with over two hundred fifty participants. Crested Butte is home to the oldest Chainless Race in the world, and probably the most fun around.
This dude shreds. Photo: Will Dujardin
Participants loaded five buses, bound for Kebler Pass, while bikes were shuttled to the top. The journey to the bottom began with the traditional Le Mans start, where participants ran fifty yards to their bikes before loading up and beginning the seven mile coast to town.
An assortment of characters dotted the course. Photo: Will Dujardin
This year, there was controversy at the start. A man in yellow shorts and a full face helmet allegedly took off before the countdown finished, flashing participants with the middle finger as he took off. The Crested Butte racing crowd did not take this kindly. They chased him down and forcefully prevented him from mounting his bike.
After a frantic start, things calmed down, as there is only so much one can do with a disabled chain. As always, heavy bikes with thin tires were rewarded. The event was won by Mark Cramm and Roman Kolondeij, two former solo winners who decided to team up on a tandem bicycle. We (my brother Will and I) also rode a tandem in order to film the start and take pictures on the way down, and we flew by most people because of our weight. The first solo winner to cross the finish line was Dave Ochs. Only a handful of people actually care who wins. The vast majority of people are out to enjoy a nice long cruise in a beautiful setting with a bunch of awesome people. There were some great costumes out there, and good times were had by all! (Minus a few flats, scrapes, and cuts, which tend to be standard.)
Dave Sugnet going for it. Photo: Will Dujardin
Scooter smiling in a red track suit! Photo: Will Dujardin
Thanks to all the volunteers and event organizers who make this event happen, year after year. Crested Butte Bike Week continues today, with the Fat Tire 40, free shuttle rides on 401 and Doctor Park, and the renowned Bridges of the Butte. Check back for more photos and videos of the Chainless and other Bike Week events.
