The sights of Colorado Springs can be appreciated in a number of ways. For many, biking is the preferred mode of transportation. Willie Phillips, the general manager for Pikes Peak Bike Tours, said he has seen interest in these tours grow exponentially over the past couple of years.
Pike Peak Bike Tours
Pikes Peak Bike Tours was established in 2007. In 2021, the company was purchased by Pikes Peak Adventure Center. According to Phillips, Pikes Peak Bike Tours combines high-quality equipment with world-class service to provide a new experience to touring Pikes Peak in the Colorado mountains, the Colorado Springs wildlife, and even getting a taste of Colorado’s history.
The rides, he explained, cater to everyone from single riders to large groups, couples to families, and professionals to beginner riders. Tours are typically requested by visitors from out of town, but Phillips said they do have many repeat customers.
“We really cast a large net,” Phillips explained. “We try our best to accommodate individuals of all ages and all riding abilities. For families, we cater to all the family members in some aspect. We do everything from mild to wild; a leisure ride to technical single-track mountain riding.”
Phillips recalls the time he took out a 72- year-old Hall of Fame football player and his grandson. The ride, he said, was a single-track experience, which is a traditional mountain ride. “I was really impressed with his ability,” he said.
Tours, Phillips said, are offered year-round as long as the weather conditions permit, and the trails are safe. All tour guides, he added, are first-aid certified and most are ride leaders through the Professional Mountain Bike Instructors Association. Guides, he said, go above and beyond to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
The Tours
With nine different tours available, Phillips said there is something for everyone. For the beginner rider, there is the Bike Garden of the Gods tour. This tour provides riders with views of some of the most varied red rock formations in the world. The single-track experience is geared toward riders of all levels and covers everything from safety and trail etiquette to navigating different terrain.
For the most adventurous rider, the Cog-Up Bike Down Pikes Peak Tour provides the rush of adrenaline with a 19.5-mile downhill experience from the summit of Pikes Peak. The Starlight Tour gives riders breathtaking views of Colorado Springs at night.
If pedaling isn’t your thing, the E-Bike Garden of the Gods tour has you covered. According to Phillips, this is a fan favorite among customers. Fitted with electric bikes, riders start at the company’s location in Old Colorado City and pedal with assistance through the scenery. The Sightseer Multi-Day Tour is a three-day event that fully explores the sights of the Pikes Peak region.
The Difference
“There are a number of things that makes us stand out from other tours in the area,” Phillips said. “First of all, the quality of the equipment our guests get to ride. We provide higher quality bicycles and equipment as well as full suspension upgrades.”
The company, Phillips explained, also houses a full-service bike shop and specializes in a 24-hour turnaround time for repairs. Services are provided for their tour bikes as well as those from the outside.
More than anything, Phillips said, the company’s hospitality ranks among the best. “We want people to feel welcome from the time they book with us to the time they finish their tour,” he explained. “Our minimum number of riders for a tour is one person,” he added. “Many companies won’t take out just a single rider. We really cater to everyone, from single riders to large corporate events. And we aren’t just a tour company, we are a resource for those visiting Colorado Springs and want help in planning their time here.”
Phillips said prior reservations are recommended for tours and they will do their best to work with the customer’s schedule. Additional information and registration details can be found on the website at https://bikepikespeak.com or by calling 719-337-5311.
