Caribou Classic 2011 | Mountain magazine

The starting line of the Caribou Classic (formerly the Boulder Mountainbike Alliance SufferFest) the first time mountain bikers have ever been given access to the historic Caribou Ranch. Photo by Gavin Gibson

Bikers ride by the famous studio (left) where artists including Elton John, Billy Joel, The Beach Boys, Michael Jackson, Chicago, and Al Green recorded. Photo by Gavin Gibson

The ride included a 38-mile option or the 50-mile SufferFest loop. Photo by Gavin Gibson

Aid stations provided first aid and bike maintenance, as well as Honey Stinger waffles and Acli-Mate energy drinks. Photo by Gavin Gibson

Rounding a corner on course. Photo by Gavin Gibson

Climbing a section of forest road on course. Photo by Gavin Gibson

And still smiling through it all. Photo by Gavin Gibson

Working on an uphill section of the Caribou Classic. Photo by Gavin Gibson

A tandem team also finished the ride. Photo by Gavin Gibson

Taking a break to partake in a few sips of Dale's Pale Ale on course. Photo by Gavin Gibson

At the end of it all, a triumphant smile at the finish line. Photo by Gavin Gibson

Relaxing after the race with a good game of bean bag toss. Photo by Gavin Gibson

Oskar Blues kept everyone fed with tasty barbecue after the ride. Photo by Gavin Gibson

The day ended at a campsite on the old Nederland High School football field, with people passing whiskey around a cluster of lanterns (no fires allowed). Photo by Gavin Gibson