Global Fat Bike Day

Global Fat Bike Day is observed annually on the first Saturday of December. In 2025, this worldwide celebration of off-road cycling takes place on December 6. The event brings together riders of all skill levels to celebrate the unique capability of bicycles equipped with oversized tires, designed to float over snow and sand.

History of Global Fat Bike Day

The holiday originated in 2012 as a grassroots movement started by British cycling enthusiasts Si Matthews and Ritchie Salt. They proposed the idea on popular internet forums, including MTBR.com and Fat-Bike.com, suggesting a single day where fat bike owners across different time zones would go for a ride. The concept was simple: create a “rolling wave” of fat bike rides around the planet to connect a then-niche community of winter cyclists.

Since that inaugural ride, the event has grown from a few scattered groups to a legitimate international phenomenon. It coincided with the explosion of the fat bike market, as major bicycle manufacturers began mass-producing the wide-tired frames that were previously custom-built novelties. Today, it serves as the unofficial kickoff to the winter cycling season in the Northern Hemisphere, with organized rides occurring in dozens of countries.

Why is Global Fat Bike Day important?

This event highlights the versatility and inclusivity of the fat bike, a machine that allows cyclists to ride in conditions that would stop a standard bicycle in its tracks. With tires typically measuring 3.8 inches or wider run at low pressure, these bikes provide the traction and flotation necessary to traverse soft snow, sand, and mud. The day demonstrates that cycling does not have to end when the weather turns cold or the terrain becomes difficult.

Culturally, the day emphasizes camaraderie over competition. Unlike intense races, Global Fat Bike Day events are almost exclusively social “no-drop” rides where the pace is casual, and the goal is simply to have fun outside. It fosters a strong sense of community among winter cyclists, encouraging riders to support local trails and bike shops while erasing the isolation that often comes with off-season training.

• Showcases the all-terrain capabilities of fat bikes.
• Unites the international cycling community.
• Encourages outdoor physical activity during winter.
• Supports local bike shops and breweries.
• Promotes trail advocacy and maintenance.

How to Celebrate Global Fat Bike Day

The best way to participate is to find a local group ride organized by a bike shop or cycling club. These gatherings often take place at trailheads or parks and usually cater to all abilities, making them perfect for beginners who want to try riding on snow for the first time. If you do not own a fat bike, many shops offer rental fleets specifically for this weekend, though reservations should be made well in advance due to high demand.

The celebration almost always includes a social component after the ride. Participants frequently gather at trailheads for barbecues, chili cook-offs, or visit local microbreweries to warm up and share stories. For those riding solo or in remote areas, sharing photos on social media with the hashtag #GlobalFatBikeDay allows them to virtually join the worldwide “rolling wave” of riders.

• Join a group ride at a local trail network.
• Rent a fat bike to try winter cycling.
• Host a post-ride social gathering or cookout.
• Share ride photos on social media platforms.
• Explore a new trail on sand or snow.

Global Fat Bike Day Dates Table