Preparing For The Big Hurt
- Posted on
- By Troy Treaccar & Nate Braks

The countdown to Big Hurt 2025 has begun. The staff at SBK has identified accessories and upgrades to make your participation faster, more comfortable, more reliable…or all of the above. Please hit the links below to see our products.
MOUNTAIN BIKE LEG
The course includes a gravel road climb, winding double track and then a gravel-to-paved road descent. Gear choices have a huge impact.
Cross Country Style Tires
Cross country style tires with low rolling resistance, but enough bite if it gets muddy in late September.
An Optimal Drivetrain Setup
Low enough gears to tackle that first climb, but enough range to accelerate down Black Diamond Road. Talk to us in store about options for your bike.
A "Clip-In” Style Pedal & Shoe Combination
A “clip-in” style pedal and shoe combination that will be powerful up the climbs, but comfortable enough for the descents or if you need to walk a short section.
Helmet & Sunglasses
Fresh helmet and sunglasses to look cool on the starting line. Look good = ride good.
Shop our collection of products for the Big Hurt here.
KAYAK LEG
This leg is often overlooked by teams and Ironman participants. Why? Most racers are experienced bike riders, but are novices on the water. Gain serious time on your competitors by crushing this leg. Invest in gear.
A Lightweight Paddle
A lightweight paddle with an efficient blade will save energy on every stroke.
A Lifejacket (PFD) With Maximum Range Of Motion
A lifejacket (PFD) with maximum range of motion will expand the reach of your stroke to create more power.
Rubber Booties
Rubber booties will protect your feet from the razor-sharp rocks on “Pebble” Beach.
Dry Pants
For Ironman participants: dry pants will keep your legs warm for the road bike leg while also keeping your socks dry. There is no need to suffer with wet feet and stiff legs for the next 2+ hours of racing.
Shop our collection of products for the Big Hurt here.
ROAD BIKE LEG
The longest leg of the race. In addition to knowing the course’s turns & infamous climbs, SBK recommends gear with a good balance of comfort and speed.
Optimal Road Tires
Tires that absorb chipseal vibration, but can make the climb up Eden Valley more tolerable.
A Good Saddle & Bib Combo
A saddle and bib-short combination that is comfortable from start to finish.
A Road Jersey
A jersey that fits tight and doesn’t act like a sail when pedaling into the wind along Edgewood Drive.
Efficient Road Shoes
Shoes that transfer all that leg power into your bike – no wasted energy!
A Repair Kit
A repair kit of essentials for quick repairs on a long course.
Shop our collection of products for the Big Hurt here.
RUN LEG
Wait!? There’s a run leg. Not our department, but swing by the shop for some tasty nutrition to power through the 10k.
Still have questions or are curious about more gear options? Give us a call at the shop (360-457-1240) or come chat with us in person! We look forward to helping you gear up for the Big Hurt.