photos by David Halterman

Bike shops all around Durango have their stands full this week as last-minute tune ups and complete bike builds flood the shops in preparation for this weekends race. Meticulous work and long hours are spent getting bikes ready, whether its for a for a potentially epic slog to Silverton or just a spin up in the Gulch. So next time youre in, give your mechanic a nod.

Charlie Ellis directs his attention toward a wheels rotation in the truing stand at Second Avenue Sports. Rick Elliott puts some finishing touches on an Iron Horse custom build-up at the Durango Cyclery. Cliff Pinto displays an array of essential tools (and some nice ink) for bike work at Pedal the Peaks. Evan Meyer, left, and Jason Holt were gettin busy front and back at Mountain Bike Specialists on Monday. Rich Parker helps Lori Meszaros figure out what that crunchy sound is coming from her rear hub at Hasslefree on Monday.