Nestled in the heart of Hailey, Idaho, Trailhead Bikes stands as a testament to passion and expertise in the cycling world. Founded by Kyle Wies and Andy Solomon, former colleagues from Fitzgerald’s Bicycles, this year-round bike shop emerged from a clear need in the market. Their journey began in 2015 when Andy, seeking a fat bike, met Kyle at Fitzgerald’s. Two years later, their shared love for bikes brought them together again as co-workers. In April 2022, Trailhead Bikes opened its doors, quickly becoming a hub for cyclists in the Sun Valley area.
Kyle and Andy bring diverse perspectives and lifestyles to Trailhead Bikes. Andy, along with his wife Erin and their daughter Finley, embraces family life and outdoor adventures. Kyle, residing in Ketchum, enjoys a more solitary lifestyle, commuting to Hailey and indulging in running and reading during his downtime. Despite their differences, their shared enthusiasm for cycling and the outdoors is the driving force behind Trailhead Bikes.
Kyle and Andy at Trailhead Bicycles, showcasing their expertise and passion for bikes.
Morning Rituals at Trailhead Bikes
For Andy, an ideal May morning begins with the rich aroma of home-brewed coffee, soon followed by a trip to Black Owl, a local favorite. There, he indulges in their signature iced coffee with brown sugar simple syrup and a tasty snack, embracing variety in his food choices. Breakfast becomes a family affair with Erin and Finley before Finley’s day begins.
Kyle’s mornings are characterized by tranquility and connection with nature. Rising early with the sun, he takes a brisk walk, witnessing the sunrise and immersing himself in the awakening landscape. This peaceful start sets a relaxed tone for his day before heading to Trailhead Bikes.
Mid-Morning Bike Adventures with Trailhead Bikes
Mid-morning is when the wheels start turning, literally. Andy and Erin embark on their first bike ride of the day, loading up their mountain bikes for an invigorating trail experience. Depending on their energy levels, they choose Greenhorn, often extending their ride to Imperial or Mahoney-Lodgepole, maximizing their enjoyment of the Sun Valley trails.
Kyle prefers a more contemplative mid-morning. He opts for a leisurely bike ride along the scenic bike path to the Sun Peak picnic area north of Ketchum. There, by the river, he immerses himself in a good book, combining his love for reading with the beauty of the outdoors.
Lunch Break Fueling Up for More Biking
Lunchtime for Andy means a quick and satisfying stop at Wrapcity. While he enjoys the Chinese Chicken Salad wrap, he appreciates the variety Wrapcity offers, keeping his lunch choices interesting. Fueling up well is essential for the active afternoons that Trailhead Bikes owners enjoy.
Kyle, embracing the pleasant weather, prefers a picnic lunch. Bringing food from home to the Sun Peak picnic area allows him to stay outdoors, savoring both his meal and the lengthening daylight hours, a welcome change after winter.
Kyle Wies with his bike, ready for an adventure on the trails around Trailhead Bikes.
Afternoon Rides and Relaxation with Trailhead Bikes
The afternoon brings a change of pace and bike style for Andy and Erin. Switching from mountain bikes to e-bikes, they head to Frenchman’s near Warm Springs. From there, they explore Red Warrior and the surrounding area, sometimes venturing up to Mars Ridge or South Fork of Warm Springs. Their ride culminates with a relaxing soak in the hot springs, a perfect way to unwind after an active day.
Kyle’s afternoon bike ride is strategically timed for the warmest part of the day. He takes his commuter bike down the bike path towards Adam’s Gulch or Lake Creek, transitioning to mountain bike trails. He then combines biking with running, hanging his bike to explore further into the trails on foot. This blend of mountain sports – road, gravel, mountain biking, and running – is his ideal way to spend an afternoon, followed by a small, refreshing beer in the sun and a rejuvenating nap.
Erin enjoying a bike ride, showcasing the active lifestyle associated with Trailhead Bikes.
Evening Wind-Down and Local Flavors
As evening approaches, Andy and Erin often invite Finley’s grandmother to join them and Finley for dinner at Rickshaw, their favorite Ketchum restaurant. Family time and enjoying local cuisine are key elements of their evenings.
Kyle, on the other hand, enjoys cooking at home. He often focuses on one dish for a month, perfecting it before moving on to something new. This month, while transitioning from cheesy cauliflower casserole, he appreciates the simple pleasure of a home-cooked meal after a day at Trailhead Bikes and outdoor activities.
After-Dinner Delights in Sun Valley
Evenings for Andy and Erin are about relaxation and family. Often tired from their active day, they unwind by watching Ted Lasso or Star Wars, enjoying some downtime before sleep.
Kyle appreciates the vibrant Sun Valley evenings. He hopes for live music events, seeking out local entertainment. If the sky is clear, he takes advantage of the dark skies for stargazing, appreciating the natural beauty of the area after a fulfilling day connected to Trailhead Bikes and the outdoors.
Andy and Finley enjoying outdoor time, highlighting the family-friendly aspect of Trailhead Bikes' lifestyle.
In conclusion, a day in the life of Andy and Kyle, the owners of Trailhead Bikes, perfectly blends their passion for cycling with the stunning landscapes of Sun Valley. From mountain biking adventures to relaxed family time and personal pursuits, their lifestyle reflects the spirit of Trailhead Bikes – a hub for both serious cyclists and those who simply enjoy the ride. Visit Trailhead Bikes to experience their expertise and enthusiasm firsthand and gear up for your own Sun Valley cycling adventure.
