Bicycle riders are in Durango and points north again this weekend for the 52nd Iron Horse Bicycle Classic, and the races are being ridden by people with different levels of experience, fitness and age. And, again many are here from other parts of Colorado and the states beyond. On the ride to Silverton on Saturday, some will be riding hard to finish high up or to improve on a previous year’s time, while others will be with a family member or friends traveling at a more moderate pace in order to share the experience.

For those who view tackling Coal Bank and Molas passes as being a little too daunting, there’s the Quarter Horse, which ends at Purgatory Resort. A perfectly respectable accomplishment.

Between Durango and Silverton on Saturday, it’s a ride where all are welcome.

Those who want to view competitive riding on Sunday can spectate between 8:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. at Chapman Hill. A ski hill not many weeks ago, with some dirt moving it has been transformed into a close-in mountain biking arena.

As it is Memorial Day weekend, the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad provides a no-charge trip to Silverton and lunch for veterans and for Gold and Blue Star family members. Railroad owner Al Harper is an Air Force veteran.

And at Durango Mesa Park south and east of Horse Gulch (East 2nd Avenue) and Highway 3 on Ewing Mesa, musicians Michael Franti and Spearhead will perform on Sunday evening. There’s a charge for that. Marc Katz, who with his wife, Jane, purchased the extensive acreage and put it into public use, said music and concerts were high on the list of activities he wanted to take place there. For details about the concert, visit DurangoConcerts.com or call 247-7657.

If you are riding to Silverton, we wish you well. And if you’re spectating, applaud loudly. The weekend weather should be ideal. No snow, as occurred a couple of years prior!