Latest mountain bike news

When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bike Trails
What makes a mountain bike trail difficult?
Aug 21, 2007
  3
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bike Trails
Yellow River and missing socks
Aug 20, 2007
  1
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bike Trails
New MTB trails could be coming to your area: Speak up!
Aug 17, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
MTB gear evolution with Lennard Zinn
Aug 16, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Mountain bike deaths
Aug 15, 2007
  1
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Landis takes 2nd at Leadville
Aug 14, 2007
  1
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Armstrong flakes on Leadville (again)
Aug 9, 2007
  1
A black and blue CamelBak backpack designed for outdoor activities, featuring a hydration reservoir and a drinking tube, padded shoulder straps, and multiple compartments for gear storage.
Culture
When biking, heat stroke is no joke
Aug 8, 2007
  1
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Mountain Bike News
Aug 7, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Community
Mountain Bike Oregon
Jul 31, 2007
  4
A motorcyclist performing a jump over a muddy water puddle in a snowy forest setting, surrounded by tall pine trees.
Culture
Share the Trail: With Motorcycles?
Jul 30, 2007
  1
A smiling man wearing a colorful floral shirt and a blue bucket hat stands with his arms crossed on a dirt path. He is surrounded by a scenic landscape with rolling hills and clear blue skies in the background.
Culture
Gary Fisher: Founding Father of Mountain Bikes
Jul 26, 2007
Map of the Colorado Trail highlighting the route of the first mountain bike race, starting in Denver and finishing in Durango. The map indicates several wilderness areas along the 535-mile route, including the Holy Cross, Mount Massive, Collegiate Peaks, Lost Creek, La Garita, and Weminuche Wilderness.
Community
First Ever Colorado Trail Race
Jul 25, 2007
  1
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Dangers of Mountain Biking in Canada
Jul 24, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
MTB News Round Up
Jul 23, 2007
A group of cyclists racing along a roadside, with onlookers in the background taking photos. The cyclists are wearing colorful racing jerseys and helmets, and there are cars parked alongside the road. The backdrop features a rocky hillside and trees.
Community
Armstrong vs. Landis at Leadville: On again?
Jul 20, 2007
  1
Community
O&P Extremity Games Start Today
Jul 19, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Want to guide a MTB tour of France? Not unless you're French
Jul 18, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Community
Team IMBA: 24 Hours of Moab
Jul 16, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Expanding our mountain bike reviews
Jul 13, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
New look, same great taste
Jul 12, 2007
A green mountain bike with yellow suspension forks leaning against a white wooden wall, surrounded by fallen leaves and green ivy.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Are you old school too?
Jul 11, 2007
  1
A winding dirt path through a lush green meadow, surrounded by mountains under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds.
Mountain Bike Trails
Favorite Mountain Bike Rides in Colorado
Jul 10, 2007
  2
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Community
World Mountain Biking Bog Snorkelling Championship
Jul 9, 2007
  1
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Wipe off that water bottle: 200 mountain bikers vomit
Jul 6, 2007
  2
A narrow dirt path surrounded by lush green trees, leading through a wooded area. The sunlight filters through the foliage, creating a serene and tranquil atmosphere.
Mountain Bike Trails
What makes a trail a trail? Part II.
Jul 5, 2007
  4
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bike Trails
Continental Divide Trail at risk
Jul 4, 2007
  2
A narrow dirt path winding through a lush green forest, surrounded by tall trees and dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves. The ground is covered with fallen leaves and small rocks, creating a natural, serene atmosphere.
Culture
FATS is PHAT!
Jul 3, 2007
  1
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bike Trails
Top 100 MTB Trails in the World
Jun 29, 2007
  1
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Adaptive mountain biking festival at Keystone last weekend
Jun 28, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bike Trails
What makes a trail a trail?
Jun 27, 2007
  1
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
IMBA: Support Mountain Biking at TVA Sites (Southeast)
Jun 26, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Community
Mountain bike valet
Jun 25, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Community
Mountain bike orienteering (MTBO)
Jun 21, 2007
  1
A winding dirt path surrounded by green grass and forested hills under a blue sky with scattered clouds. A person is biking along the trail, which forks in the distance.
Mountain Bike Trails
New DH trails at Keystone this summer
Jun 20, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bike Trails
Money talks, hikers walk
Jun 19, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Community
Singletracks is moving
Jun 15, 2007
Mountain Bikes and Gear
A wooden mountain bike?
Jun 15, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Mountain biking is dead
Jun 14, 2007
  6
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Community
Lory State Park adds MTB Park
Jun 13, 2007
  1
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Mountain bike weddings
Jun 13, 2007
  1
Community
Mountain bike limbo
Jun 12, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bike Trails
New singletrack in Savage, MN
Jun 6, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Community
Triangle Off Road Cyclists (TORC) Fat Tire Festival: June 9
Jun 6, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Community
Klunkerz screening at Bicycle Film Festival
Jun 5, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bike Trails
Eroded and confusing trail network? Just start over!
Jun 5, 2007
  2
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Culture
Floyd Landis takes 36th at Teva Mountain Games in Vail
Jun 4, 2007
When I moved back to the flatlands of the southeast a couple years ago I found it odd that mountain bike trails had difficulty ratings. Some ratings were official (like the beginner and advanced trails at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=1082">Little River</a>) while others were a bit more informal and passed along via word of mouth (the river side trails are easier than the creek side at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a>). But I gotta say, I just don't get it. All the trails seem the same to me! Of course in Colorado it's pretty easy to tell the beginner trails from the advanced ones: long climbs and technical descents easily take trails from mild to wild. When a trail is marked "black" at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=24">Palmer Park</a>, you know it's pretty gnarly and beginners should steer clear while sticking to the "green" paths. But what's so advanced about the "advanced" loop out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=722">Beaver Dam</a> near Raleigh? It's longer? That's about the only difference I could see, all the trails have roots and rocks and short steep sections that beginners may need to walk. Out at <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=604">Yellow River</a> it seems like the rumors have it backward. The supposedly easier river-side trails seemed much more eroded and rocky in spots despite being wider and a little flatter. Perhaps this is a just a local myth that's meant to keep the masses off the creek-side trails so they don't end up as eroded and wide as the river-side trails. The point of all this is to say you can't always rely on the trail recommendations of others, especially experienced riders who have been biking for years. If you're a beginner, don't let labels intimidate you (especially informal ones)--give the more difficult trails a try and if you don't like 'em, turn around and go back the way you came! You'll be surprised how much you can handle if you just give it a try.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Ever had a GPS freeze up on a ride?
Jun 1, 2007
  1