The George S. Mickelson Trail weaves through the Black Hills National Forest, and the views are breathtaking. Wanting to share her appreciation for those views and passion for biking, Stacey Phillips partnered up with friend Jobie Wagner to open Deadwheels Bike Rentals in Deadwood.
“I have always loved the outdoors, and my family enjoys bike riding together,” explained Phillips. “The Mickelson Trail is so beautiful. I wanted to offer the opportunity for any family, riders of all ages, to rent bicycles, ride through the trails, and enjoy quality family time together outdoors.”
Phillips and Wagner opened Deadwheels in May. Dividing their tasks based on expertise, Phillips took the lead on the legal and patent aspects of the business, while Wagner focused on marketing and media. A location was secured along with a trailer and shuttle, and Phillips relied on Wagner to expand their staff. “I’ve got a really great team with really high customer service skills. They’re doing an amazing job.”
After making a stop at Deadwheels with my mom and sister for the full biking experience, I can attest to that. As we approached the trailer displaying Deadwheels’ eye-catching logo, I initially noticed the wide variety of bikes they have to offer. With an assortment to accommodate all ages, the selection ranges from kids’ bikes and trailers to four different adult sized varieties. Their most popular option is the Momentum Rocker, also known as the “fat tire bike.” The newest addition to Deadwheels’ collection is a tandem bike, a two-seater, allowing two people to ride at once, picture perfect for rides along Deadwood’s downtown brick-paved streets.
We were warmly greeted by Wagner as we approached the trailer, and conversation came easily as he explained their bike selection, the rental time frames offered, and the Mickelson trail descriptions. With the option of a two hour, four hour, or full day rental, we decided to take our time with a four hour ride down the Dumont Trail. The primarily downhill ride and forest views make it the most popular of the 15 trail options, allowing an enjoyable ride for even the most inexperienced bikers. For a small fee, a shuttle service is offered throughout the day to transport riders and their bikes to the start of their trail selection. After taking a few test rides and choosing the bikes we preferred, Wagner graciously loaded our selections onto the back of their shuttle, and we were off.
Wagner guided the shuttle up the scenic drive to the Dumont Trail head, leaving us with a 16 mile ride back into Deadwood. He provided a few simple instructions and his contact information in case of an emergency, before pointing us in the right direction and heading back into town. Immediately noting the solitude of our surroundings, we started down the forest-lined path that gave us magnificent views from the start. Biking along the trail allowed us to appreciate the detail in the nature we had been admiring from a distance. The white birch trees that surrounded us created a feel of enchantment that was only enhanced by the deer seen scattered along the way. Our path through the forest eventually opened to reveal an expanse of hills scattered with evergreen trees and a river winding through, a view that was nothing short of breathtaking.
The Dumont Trail’s scenery exceeded our expectations, and the ride was leisurely and as easy to navigate as promised. We coasted through the end of the trail back into Deadwheels’ parking location, waving hello to Wagner as we rode by to spend the last portion of our four hours cruising through Deadwood’s historic streets. We all agreed the experience was one of the highlights of our trip as we headed back to return our bikes.
Deadwheels offers a wide variety of bike and trail options, and they come at an affordable rate. Discounts are offered to families who rent three or more bikes, as well as groups of 10 or more. A veteran himself, Wagner refers to the discounted rate that is offered to both veterans and first responders, explaining, “We take care of those who take care of us.” Customers are also able to bring their own bikes and utilize Deadwheels’ shuttle service, beverages for sale, and bike accessories for rent.
The outstanding customer service and reasonable pricing makes it clear that Deadwheels Bike Rental is dedicated to taking care of their customers and providing a memorable experience. Phillips emphasizes the purpose of their business, stating, “Deadwood is known for its history and gambling, but we’re able to offer appreciation for its beauty. Biking the Mickelson Trail is something families can do together. We’re lucky to be surrounded by these amazing views, and we hope Deadwheels will give anyone the chance to enjoy them.”
For more information on Deadwheels Bike Rentals, visit deadwheelsbikerentals.com or call (402) 689-2682.
