Cyclists of the Iron Horse: A Field Guide

It’s everyone’s favorite bike-frenzied weekend, the 48th annual Iron Horse Bicycle Classic! With an ever widening genus of participants, here are a few of the more common, as well as rare cyclists (or is it cyclers?) you just may be lucky enough to observe thriving in their natural habitat. Respecting the privacy of these exceptional athletes is crucial so as to not disturb their behavior prior to or during race day. To comply with ethics of modern observation techniques, the identities of the featured individuals have been lightly obscured.

This bizarre and extremely rare creature is a male one-rimmed bearded ginger. It's outstretched arms are typically utilized for bal- ance rather than announcing victories, making a humble sight for observers. It has been debated whether the flag is a defense mechanism to detract would-be predators or to attract potential mates

Frothing toward the finish line, the Southwestern crowned spinner is fast and takes no prisoners. Observers beware, as it's not uncommon for onlookers to get taken out while standing too close.

Behold: the cunning and elusive red Ned. Best observed with a quality pair of binoculars, you just may be lucky enough to catch the gleaming teeth and outstretched arms of this one-of-a-kind specimen. Easily confused with more aggressive, non-native species with similar markings and patterns, it is best not to approach a Ned unless absolutely sure it has been identified correctly.

Here, we have a juvenile Durango ripper. Adorable as can be, don't let this little guy fool you. Juvenile rippers quickly surpass most others' ability levels, including parents, before the age of 10.