Iowa City Bike Shop Fat Bikes
This page contains links to the “Fat Bike” models available from local Iowa City bicycle shops as of December 2013. Call or stop by the stores for a current inventory. Additional brands and models may be available, including some used bikes.
29-Inch Fat Bike / Mountain Bike Hybrid
The Surly Krampus has 3″ wide tires, so it’s somewhere between a traditional mountain bike tire (2.2″ wide) and a fat bike tire (about 4″ to 5″ wide). This gives the Krampus extra traction with less drag, making it easier to pedal. The 29″ wheel allows the bike to roll more smoothly, and the frame size can be better suited for taller riders.
Considerations
Fat Bikes are just a small part of the overall bicycle market. Most people considering trail riding or winter urban riding will purchase a mountain bike. For this reason, accessories for Fat Bikes aren’t as readily available — such as racks and fenders. Their design requires specialized components.
29-Inch Mountain Bikes
While definitely not in the same category as Fat Bikes, the 29-inch wheel bikes offer the ability to more nimbly traverse over sidewalks and other obstacles. With a larger sized mountain bike tire, the experience comes close to Fat Bike mobility. Click here for more reading from REI.