Latest mountain bike news

A mountain biker navigating a rocky cliff edge in a desert landscape, with expansive canyons and mountains visible in the background under a clear blue sky.
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A scenic outdoor landscape featuring two mountain bikers navigating a dirt trail on a hillside. The sky is filled with clouds, and the terrain is rocky with sparse vegetation. In the background, distant mountains are visible under a cloudy sky.
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A mountain bike with a sleek design, featuring a white and blue frame, positioned on rocky terrain. The bike has large tires suitable for off-road conditions and a prominent front suspension fork, showcasing its capability for rugged trails.
Map of the most popular mountain bike trails in the United States and Canada for the year 2017, featuring various trail locations marked across the regions of both countries.
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Close-up of a bike tire featuring a rugged tread design, partially covered in snow. The tire's surface is detailed with distinct, square-shaped knobs, which provide traction for winter riding conditions. The background shows a snowy landscape.
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A mountain biker navigating a rocky trail on a hillside, with mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.
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A close-up view of a person wearing a CamelBak hydration pack, positioned on their lower back, while holding onto a bicycle handlebar. The background features a forested area, suggesting an outdoor activity like biking or hiking.
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A winding dirt path through a tranquil forest, surrounded by tall trees and patches of green moss. Sunlight filters through the branches, casting gentle shadows on the ground.
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A person riding a mountain bike on a rocky terrain, with large boulders and sparse vegetation, under a clear blue sky.
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A close-up view of a bike suspension tool mounted in a workshop, featuring a metallic silver body with a blue label and a clamp at one end. Various bike tools and equipment are visible in the background, arranged on a wall.
A person riding a mountain bike on a gravel path alongside a river, surrounded by trees and rocky terrain. The scenery features hills in the background and a clear sky.
A scenic view of a mountainous landscape at sunrise, featuring rugged peaks illuminated by warm sunlight. In the foreground, a rustic wooden fence and scattered bushes blend with the natural surroundings, while a house is nestled among the trees in the distance. The scene captures the tranquility of nature, with a mix of rocky terrain and evergreen trees.
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A mountain biker rides along a narrow rock arch in a desert landscape, with cloudy skies overhead. The scene captures the thrill of outdoor adventure and the natural beauty of the terrain.
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A close-up image of a brightly colored, worn shoe resting on a large stone, surrounded by natural elements such as dried leaves and small plants. The shoe features a black toe with red accents and visible text printed on the side.
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Group of four outdoor enthusiasts posing together by a body of water. They are smiling and wearing casual attire, with logos visible on their shirts and hats. The background features a recreational area with boats and greenery under a clear blue sky.
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A mountain biker riding over rocky terrain on a sunny day with a clear blue sky. The cyclist is dressed in a black and pink jersey and gray shorts, focusing on navigating the challenging landscape.
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A group of mountain bikers in various colored outfits and helmets are lined up next to a starting banner on a dirt path. The setting appears to be a grassy area with hills in the background, under overcast skies. Some participants are holding umbrellas due to the weather, while others are on their bikes, preparing for the race.
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Alt text: A detailed view of a mountain bike featuring a black and green frame, showcasing the suspension system and handlebars. Images include close-ups of the shock absorber and fork with branding, highlighting the bike's advanced components.
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A mountain biker climbs a dirt trail on a hillside, surrounded by rocky terrain and sparse vegetation under a partly cloudy sky.
Four containers of Nikwax cleaning products are displayed on a red background. The products include TX.Direct Wash-In and TX.Direct Spray-On on the top, and Basewash and Tech Wash bottles on the bottom.
A scenic landscape view featuring rolling hills and a valley, with a winding river and patches of trees. In the distance, snow-capped mountains rise against a cloudy sky, illuminated by sunlight breaking through the clouds.
A black and yellow GT mountain bike frame is positioned on a workbench. The frame features a stylish design with prominent branding and is equipped with a shock absorber. A small piece of wood is supporting the frame, and the background shows a power outlet and a row of electrical sockets along the wall.
A blue fat bike with oversized tires is displayed against a textured white background. The bike features a sleek design, with a modern frame and disc brakes. Additionally, a graphic reading "Coming Soon" is positioned at the top left corner, adding a promotional element to the image.
A mountain biker performing a jump off a wooden ramp in a forested area, surrounded by trees and greenery. The rider is wearing a helmet and protective gear, showcasing an action shot that captures the thrill of the sport.
Two people riding mountain bikes along a dirt path in a desert landscape. The scene features sparse vegetation and a distant mountainous horizon under a cloudy sky.
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A mountain bike with orange handlebars and two water bottles mounted on the frame is parked beside a trail sign featuring symbols for biking and hiking. In the background, a rocky mountain range and clear blue sky are visible. The scene is set in a natural outdoor environment with scattered shrubs.
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A mountain biker skillfully navigates a rocky trail on a bicycle, with a wooden bridge in the foreground. The landscape features rugged terrain and sparse vegetation, showcasing the challenging environment of the bike ride.
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Close-up of a man’s face with a focused expression, accompanied by the text "dirtTV" in the top left corner and the words "BEYOND THE BIKE 'NEEDLES'" prominently displayed. The background is dark, emphasizing the subject's features.
A black fat bike displayed in a shop, featuring oversized tires with white rims and a sleek frame design. Various bicycle accessories and other bikes are visible in the background, showcasing a vibrant retail environment.
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A person riding a mountain bike on a narrow dirt trail surrounded by tall grasses and rocky terrain, with hills in the background under a partially cloudy sky.
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A spacious bicycle shop featuring a variety of bicycles on display. The interior has high ceilings with bright overhead lights and large windows allowing natural light. Rows of bikes are arranged around the shop, with a counter where staff assist customers.
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Logo of "Bell Built" featuring a hexagonal design in red with the words "BELL BUILT" prominently displayed. The tagline "MAKING TRAILS" is included, accompanied by a gear symbol.
A cluttered bike shop filled with numerous bicycles, both on the floor and hanging from the ceiling. Various styles and colors of bikes are visible, including a bright yellow bike prominently displayed amongst many others. Price tags are attached to most bikes, and posters and signage decorate the walls of the shop. The overall atmosphere is busy and vibrant, highlighting a vast selection of bicycles.
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A person standing outdoors in a black t-shirt, speaking towards the camera with a scenic background featuring trees and mountains under a clear blue sky. A video player interface is visible at the bottom.
[caption id="attachment_43815" align="alignnone" width="533"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/LC0.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-43815" alt="Miniskibum enjoys the slickrock playground that sits atop Little Creek Mountain" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/LC0-533x400.jpg" width="533" height="400" /></a> Miniskibum enjoys the slickrock playground that sits atop Little Creek Mountain[/caption]

Day Three of the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-trails/spring-break-singletrack-trek-the-sequel-part-2-hitting-three-peaks-and-going-to-church-rocks/">Second Annual Spring Break Singletrack Trek</a> would be the one which we chose to ride a trail which would be a repeat, at least for Mntbikedude and I; Miniskibum had yet to experience the wonders of  <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-trails/little-creek-mountain.html">Little Creek Mountain</a>.  On previous trips to <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/Utah-bike-trails_43.html?pageNo=1&amp;filterBy=|field168:St.%20George">St George</a>, I had multiple runs, one with Miniskibum, on Little Creek’s sister mesa, Gooseberry, a ride I had often thought of as my all-time favorite for its uniqueness and astonishingly high fun-to-work ratio.


<div style="overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;width: 620px" align="right"><a href="bike-trails/little-creek-mountain.html">Little Creek Mountain</a> on <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/">Singletracks.com</a></div>
Little Creek looks much like Gooseberry at first, but once on the mesa and making the rounds, one finds it has a character all its own.  Like Gooseberry, there’s plenty of slickrock to play on.  Unlike Gooseberry, though, this slickrock is a bit more ledgy.  Like the Goose, Little Creek has singletrack skirting the edge of the mesa, hundreds of feet above the valley below, and jaw-dropping views of Zion National Park.  Like the Goose, Little Creek has plenty of big rock rollers, but it also has plenty of rock ledges, meaning you can huck as well as roll.   Also, in addition to the greater variety of slickrock, Little Creek serves up stretches of top-quality singletrack between the rock stunts.

[caption id="attachment_43816" align="alignnone" width="533"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/LC1.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-43816" alt="The author hits one of many step ups early in the Little Creek Mesa ride." src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/LC1-533x400.jpg" width="533" height="400" /></a> The author hits one of many step ups early in the Little Creek Mesa ride.[/caption]

There are two things a first timer to Little Creek Mesa should bear in mind.  First, the road from the valley to the trailhead on the mesa can be very rough, and a high clearance vehicle is a good thing to have.  Second, while signage on Little Creek Mesa has improved, it’s still not the easiest place to navigate.  Some route finding will be required, and there are a couple critical junctions where it’s easy to make a wrong turn.  A map is good, but a GPS and/or a Little Creek veteran is better.

We started out planning to ride the 14-mile outer loop, which combines the large West Loop with the extension loop out to North Point.  After a brief warmup on some quality singletrack bobbing and weaving through the pinions, the trail hits a large slickrock playground which one may choose simply to traverse, or to session some of the various stunts that present themselves along the sides of the route.  We, of course, chose the latter.

[caption id="attachment_43817" align="alignnone" width="533"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/LC3.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-43817" alt="This place rocks!" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/LC3-533x400.jpg" width="533" height="400" /></a> This place rocks![/caption]

After the slickrock, it’s back to the singletrack, interspersed at seemingly regular intervals with rock rollers.  This is the perfect trail for an ADD rider like myself—it’s impossible to get bored with any one type of riding because it is constantly changing: bank a corner, duck a tree branch, roll a rock, bank again, huck a ledge and... pause to check out the view.  This never gets old.  As we rounded the far side of the West Loop and began looking for the connection which would take us out the North Point Loop...

[caption id="attachment_43818" align="alignnone" width="300"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/DSCN0139.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-43818" alt="The obligatory rim shot on Little Creek Mountain." src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/DSCN0139-300x400.jpg" width="300" height="400" /></a> The obligatory rim shot on Little Creek Mountain.[/caption]

<em><strong>Disaster Strikes!</strong></em>

<em><strong></strong></em>While approaching a sharp climb, Miniskibum went to downshift into his small ring and noticed he couldn’t—his shifter had broken.  While his bike could still ride, he’d be stuck in his middle ring, and we didn’t want to force him through all the coming difficult, technical climbs without being able to downshift, so we took the fork, which would return us to the trailhead, cutting our planned trip to just shy of ten miles.

[caption id="attachment_43819" align="alignnone" width="533"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/DSCN0143.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-43819" alt="Mntbikedude rides a rock bridge on the northwest side of Little Creek Mountain.  Unfortunately, we'd cut our ride shortly hereafter.  " src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/DSCN0143-533x400.jpg" width="533" height="400" /></a> Mntbikedude rides a rock bridge on the northwest side of Little Creek Mountain. Unfortunately, we'd cut our ride shortly hereafter.[/caption]

<strong>Physical difficulty of our route:</strong> 3/5
<strong>Technical difficulty of our route:</strong> 4/5
<strong>Skibum’s grade:</strong> 5/5 stars
<strong>Miniskibum’s grade:</strong> 5/5 stars

<strong>When life hands you a broken bike – Get a demo!</strong>

<strong></strong>We beat a retreat back to the town of <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/Mountain-Bike-Trails-bike-trails_0.html?filterBy=|loc:37.175278~-113.289167~25~Hurricane%2C+UT">Hurricane</a> and stopped at <a href="http://otesports.com/locations/hurricane/">Over the Edge</a>, hoping they’d have a shifter and could execute repairs.  I figured we’d leave the bike at OTE for the next day and give Miniskibum a break from his 36-pound tank. In typical OTE fashion (I’ve stopped there on three trips to St George/Hurricane and received exceptional service each time), Quentin said he could turn the bike around overnight, so we wouldn’t be forced to rent a bike.  Nonetheless, I still saw this as a good excuse to let Miniskibum start exploring other bikes so he’d know what he wants when we get to the point of replacing the small frame he’s already pretty much outgrown.  So we left there with a beautiful baby blue Knolly Chilcothin, which would serve as Miniskibum’s steed for the next day.

[caption id="attachment_43824" align="alignnone" width="533"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/DSCN0149.jpg"><img class=" wp-image-43824   " alt="" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/DSCN0149-533x400.jpg" width="533" height="400" /></a> The Black Mamba, Big Ibis and Boy Blue all ready for the Broken Mesa Rim[/caption]

The next day was another opportunity to hit one of the areas'<a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-trails/mountain-biking-the-b-trails-5-routes-you-may-have-missed/"> “alternate” rides</a>.  While not necessarily a fan favorite, the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-trails/broken-mesa-rim.html">Broken Mesa Rim</a> is highly regarded among many locals and hardcore technical riders.  To do the Broken Mesa Rim as a loop requires a long, dusty dirt road climb, so in the interest of saving time for a second ride and our legs for another three days of consecutive riding, we shuttled the road.


<div style="overflow: hidden;white-space: nowrap;width: 620px" align="right"><a href="bike-trails/broken-mesa-rim.html">Broken Mesa Rim</a> on <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/">Singletracks.com</a></div>
However, this didn’t save us from all the climbing.  From the trailhead, the trail climbs 600 vertical feet in the first mile to gain the rim.   The climb is loose, rocky, loaded with very tight switchbacks, and positively relentless in its demands.  As we neared the top, we were thrilled when we finally saw the open meadow that tops the mesa.

[caption id="attachment_43823" align="alignnone" width="533"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BM1.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-43823" alt="BM1" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BM1-533x400.jpg" width="533" height="400" /></a> Hey, I though shuttling meant we didn't have to climb![/caption]

Once again, we were treated to magnificent views of the variety of geology which surrounds the area.  We were also treated to another kind of geology--lava, and lots of it.  There’s a reason this trail isn’t on everybody’s wish list despite the awesome views and its position right on the edge of town, all while being easily shuttleable.  In addition to the hateful initial climb, once one gets to the “easy” part, one is faced with endless fields of scattered, jagged, black lava rock.  This isn’t rock that’s easily rolled.  This trail is hard on both bike and rider.

Despite going downhill, the trail still requires significant energy input and constant vigilance.  The tail is taxing both mentally and physically.  Some of the trail has deteriorated into ruts so deep and narrow, it’s impossible to pedal without banging cranks on the sides of the rut—that is, if you can stay upright in the difficult combination of loose, soft dirt and unstable baby heads.  While my shorter-travel bike performed well, this trail had me lamenting the fact that I'd <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/mtb-trails/spring-break-singletrack-trek-the-sequel-part-1-green-river-greenhorns/">broken my long-travel bike on day one</a> of the trip.

[caption id="attachment_43825" align="alignnone" width="533"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BM2.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-43825" alt="If you're looking for buff, look elsewhere." src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BM2-533x400.jpg" width="533" height="400" /></a> If you're looking for buff, look elsewhere.[/caption]

We had hoped to explore our way up the adjoining <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/bike-trails/ice-house-loop.html">Ice House trail</a>, but by the time we reached the junction, we had consumed more time than planned, and we needed to save time for our second ride of the day while getting the demo back before OTE's closing, so we skipped the Ice House exploration and continued our descent.

Most of the descent is gradual, requiring the rider to constantly battle with the lava rock and difficult ruts.  Then, you reach the end of the mesa, and the trail positively plummets!  It’s still technical and it’s still loose and rutted.  But now, it’s really steep!  Many people get to this point and choose to walk it, but Miniskibum and I refused to have done all that work just to end up walking the best part, so down we went.  While I took some of it rather tentatively, Miniskibum effortlessly floated over all the obstacles as if partially levitating.

Having survived the descent, we had ear-to-ear grins, which would be promptly be wiped off our faces by the two miles of fire road required to get back to our lower shuttle, the last quarter mile of which was heinously steep – uphill.  That was a real kick in the gut way to finish the ride.  In the end, I put this trail in the “Glad I did it, but I’m in no real hurry to do it again” category.

[caption id="attachment_43821" align="alignnone" width="533"]<a href="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BM3.jpg"><img class="size-large wp-image-43821" alt="The author starts the rocky descent off the Broken Mesa." src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2014/04/BM3-533x400.jpg" width="533" height="400" /></a> The author starts the rocky descent off the Broken Mesa.[/caption]

<strong>Physical difficulty of our route:</strong> 3/5
<strong>Technical difficulty of our route:</strong> 4.5/5
<strong>Skibum’s grade:</strong> 3.5/5 stars
<strong>Miniskibum’s grade:</strong> 4/5 stars

While Miniskibum didn’t really take to the Knolly at first, by the end of the ride he was quite pleased, and looking forward to the afternoon ride.  We headed into town to refuel and get prepped for the second ride of the day.  In the next installment: eating Holy Guacamole and showing Suicidal Tendencies.
A mountain biker navigating a rocky downhill trail, leaning forward with intensity as he expertly rides his blue bike through a rugged, natural landscape surrounded by trees and rocky terrain.
An artistic arrangement of Shimano XTR bike components, including a crankset, cassette, chain, and derailleur, set against a dark blue background. The text "SHIMANO XTR" and "ENGINEERED FOR THE WAY YOU RIDE" is prominently displayed.
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A fat tire bike parked on a snowy trail, with mountains and a cloudy sky in the background.
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A man wearing a black helmet, a dark plaid shirt, and black pants is standing next to a mountain bike. He is holding an orange object in one hand and has a relaxed expression while posing against a textured gray background.
A bright turquoise mountain bike with striking pink accents. The bike features a sturdy frame and is displayed on a stand against a green backdrop, indicating a bicycle event or exhibition.
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A cyclist navigating rocky terrain on a mountain bike, wearing a helmet and a red shirt, with trees in the background. The cyclist appears focused and is leaning forward, showcasing a dynamic riding posture.
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A high-performance mountain bike suspension fork with a black and silver design, featuring adjustable settings and a sturdy crown. The fork is shown from a frontal perspective, highlighting its sleek lines and branding.
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A sleek black fat bike positioned on snowy ground, showcasing its wide, knobby tires and sturdy frame. Pine trees in the background add a natural, wintry setting. The bike features a minimalist design with a small storage bag attached to the frame.
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A mountain biker performing a wheelie on a rocky trail, with a mountainous landscape in the background under a clear blue sky. The rider is wearing a helmet and protective gear, showcasing an adventurous moment in an outdoor setting.
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Close-up view of a mountain bike tire showcasing its textured tread pattern, designed for grip and traction on rough terrain. The background features blurred earthy tones, indicating an outdoor setting.
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A cyclist riding along a winding dirt trail on a rocky, arid landscape with sparse vegetation, surrounded by hills and distant mountains under a clear blue sky.
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