04/09/2026
Our hearts are heavy with the passing of Kevin Forrester, from Sturgis SD. He has been part of the Ridge Riders Mountain Bike Club since the late 80's and went on to carve out a piece of MTB history over the last few decades.
Kevin’s lifelong love of two wheels began in the 1970s, when he was one of the neighborhood kids building BMX tracks, jumps, and trails around Sturgis. By the 1980s, as mountain biking took off, Kevin was all in. He began racing, capturing a South Dakota State Championship in 1992, and later competing in Colorado, where he excelled in downhill events.
In true Kevin fashion, he didn’t stop at racing, he started creating. His first of many mountain bike races took place in 1989 at Alkali Creek near Sturgis. Over the years, he became known for hosting some of the most original and challenging events in the region. One even sent riders speeding through downtown alleyways and local bars. His mom, Mary, and his wife, Nicole, were always there by his side, helping make each event something special.
Kevin’s vision reached its peak with the launch of the Tatanka 100, an ultra endurance race that drew riders from across the nation and became part of the National Ultra Endurance (NUE) series.
But beyond races and competition, Kevin’s greatest legacy is carved into the hills themselves. As a founder of Black Hills Trails, he played a central role in building and developing the Sturgis Trail System, turning his hometown into a true destination for riders of all kinds. His tireless passion, creativity, and community spirit helped shape not only the trails, but the culture of mountain biking in the Black Hills and abroad.
Kevin’s tracks will remain etched in the dirt and in the hearts of all who ride there.
There is no better way to Celebrate the life of K4 than a group ride on his local Sturgis trails.
We will be meeting at Alkali Creek Trailhead Saturday April 11th at 9am to sort shuttles to Little Elk Cr. and ride the infamous BAM course. There will be water/beers half way at Elk Cr. Trailhead. Approximately 30 mile ride, 7-8hr. group pace, advanced trail and distance for early season.
Some plan to camp at Alkali Cr. campground Saturday night.
Sunday 10am Alkali Cr. Trailhead, come ride some of your favorite Sturgis trails and meet up afterward for cheers and K4 stories at the trailhead.
Max Respect and Love to K4, his family and friends.
Go Big, Be Brave and Keep Loving Life!
