Pikes Peak brings the cars to the crowd at Fan Fest

Before the official Pikes Peak Hill Climb racing action hits the mountain, the fans command attention in Colorado Springs. The appropriately named Fan Fest completely takes over Tejon Street, packing it with rows of high-speed vehicles, throngs of Pikes enthusiasts, and excited race teams.

Everything ranging from the mighty Unlimited Class vehicles to dirt bikes and racing sidecars line the street. Paul Dallenbach's 1,300-horsepower four-wheeled rocketship sits near Monster Tajima's Suzuki SX4 Hill Climb Special, while Rhys Millen's RMR PM580 and the GT-R-powered Dacia Duster are both a few blocks away.

Doug Siddens was also on hand, and his 300-horsepower RZR side-by-side is running even faster than he thought it would. Siddens believes he may end up finishing with a time in the 11-minute range, which is simply blistering in his vehicle.

This isn't just about the familiar faces and vehicles, however, as relatively unknown drivers get to chat about their cars, trucks and two-wheeled hill-climbers with anyone who's interested. Fan Fest is the ultimate chance for Pikes Peak lovers to meet an old hero, or introduce themselves to a brand new one.