Latest mountain bike news

It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Mountain Bike Trails
Riding on wet trails is tempting - but unsweet
Mar 1, 2007
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
MTB Tips
Mountain bike skills training
Feb 28, 2007
A person wearing a winter outfit is standing on a pile of snow, triumphantly holding a bicycle above their head. The background features a clear, cold sky, emphasizing a winter setting.
Community
Race at the pole (North Pole that is)
Feb 27, 2007
A colorful map of a park or recreational area featuring labeled pathways, buildings, and natural landscapes. The layout includes various zones designated by letters and includes trails, open spaces, and a river or water feature along one edge.
Mountain Bike Trails
Alot of mountain bike trails stink
Feb 26, 2007
A promotional image featuring a cyclist on a scenic mountain trail, with text describing the exhilaration of outdoor adventure in Tennessee. The message emphasizes physical challenges and the joy of releasing burdens through activities like biking in the Great Smoky Mountains. The Tennessee logo and website are also included.
Culture
Alaska mountain bike trails are not in Tennessee
Feb 24, 2007
Two emergency medical service (EMS) personnel on bicycles at night. One person, wearing a helmet and a jacket with "EMS" on the back, is turned to the side while the other, also in a helmet, is sitting on their bike, engaged in conversation. Both are dressed in reflective gear for visibility. The background includes urban structures and street lighting.
Culture
Mountain bike patrol
Feb 23, 2007
A bright red mountain bike with a lightweight aluminum frame, featuring thick tires designed for off-road terrain, a front suspension fork, and multiple gears. The bike is equipped with disc brakes and has a sleek, modern design suitable for outdoor cycling adventures.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Folding mountain bike
Feb 22, 2007
  1
A group of mountain bikers races along a dirt trail surrounded by greenery, with a mountain peak in the background and a helicopter flying overhead under a clear blue sky.
Community
Epic mountain bike race
Feb 21, 2007
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
MacGuyver bike tricks
Feb 20, 2007
  1
Line graph showing ride log data for speed over a period from January 27, 2007, to February 14, 2007. The vertical axis indicates speed in miles per hour, ranging from 6.8 to 8.9 mph, while the horizontal axis displays dates. A blue line represents the average speed of 7.61 mph. Data points are plotted to show fluctuations in speed throughout the given time period.
Culture
New feature roundup
Feb 19, 2007
Three mountain bikers ride on a grassy slope with wildflowers, while a chairlift runs overhead against a backdrop of mountains and a blue sky with fluffy clouds.
Mountain Bike Trails
This just in: mountain bikers more lazy than not
Feb 16, 2007
  3
A person in a red shirt performs a jump on a bicycle over a small blue vehicle in a forested area, with trees visible in the background. A dog is seen on the ground nearby.
Culture
Mountain bike country club: The Proving Ground
Feb 15, 2007
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Culture
The long tail of mountain biking
Feb 14, 2007
A screenshot of a webpage displaying mountain bike trails in Colorado, specifically listing trails near Crested Butte. The list includes names such as "Doctor Park," "Dyke," "Farris Creek," and "Reno / Flag / Bear / Deadman," along with corresponding icons for photos and trail rankings.
Culture
Redesign roundup
Feb 13, 2007
Alt tag: "Logo for Biking Gear featuring an image of a cycling shoe in black, orange, and blue."
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Our mountain bike gear coverage sucks
Feb 13, 2007
A person riding a mountain bike on a narrow, winding trail through a wooded area with bare trees and fallen leaves. The cyclist is wearing a helmet and outdoor clothing. The scene captures the natural environment of the trail, emphasizing the adventure of mountain biking.
Mountain Bike Trails
Ice bike racing
Feb 12, 2007
Cover art for the video game "Downhill Domination" for PlayStation 2, featuring a mountain biker racing downhill. The background includes rugged terrain and mountains, with the game's title prominently displayed at the top. The artwork has vibrant colors, emphasizing action and excitement.
Culture
Anyone play mountain bike video games?
Feb 11, 2007
  2
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Culture
Eco-terrorist targeted mountain bikers
Feb 9, 2007
  3
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Culture
Think you can outrun a motorcycle on your bike?
Feb 8, 2007
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mountain bike trail video profiles
Feb 8, 2007
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Cycling roller guy
Feb 7, 2007
A group of cyclists racing on a mountainous road, with one cyclist mid-air performing a jump above the others. The background features a clear blue sky and mountainous terrain, with onlookers observing the scene.
Community
Mountain bikers > Road cyclists
Feb 7, 2007
A vintage red bicycle with a yellow helmet rests on a stage, framed by greenery. The bike is accented by chrome details and a rear basket, and is positioned in front of a large, abstract gray star on a dimly lit background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
i-RIDE - Why don't you?
Feb 6, 2007
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Mountain Bike Trails
Chicopee Woods expanding
Feb 5, 2007
Community
Mountain biking class
Feb 5, 2007
  1
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Up for a freezing, dark downhill race?
Feb 2, 2007
Logo featuring the word "XTERRA" in bold, stylized text, with a graphic element resembling an "X" stamped above it. The design has a textured, distressed look, predominantly in dark text with a maroon accent.
Community
Mountain biking on TV this weekend
Feb 2, 2007
Culture
New cycling rollers
Feb 2, 2007
  1
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Culture
Women's Mountain Bike Racing Petition
Feb 1, 2007
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Community
Bike maintenance classes
Feb 1, 2007
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Cycling earphones for iPod
Jan 31, 2007
Logo for ActionProfiles, an action sports network, featuring the text "Check out our profile at ActionProfiles" and the tagline "The Action Sports Network" on a dark background.
Culture
Mountain bikers seeking sponsorship
Jan 30, 2007
A man wearing a black cap and a red cycling jersey stands outdoors, with trees and a road sign in the background. He has a serious expression on his face.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Have you seen my mountain bike?
Jan 29, 2007
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Culture
Growing the sport
Jan 29, 2007
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Culture
Bike Church and other cycling non-profits
Jan 28, 2007
  2
MTB Tips
How to Build a Mountain Bike Teeter Totter Feature
Jan 27, 2007
  3
Culture
Jackass Number 2: Bike stunts
Jan 26, 2007
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Snow bike
Jan 25, 2007
A Shimano bicycle pedal featuring a silver metallic body and clip mechanism, designed for secure shoe attachment during cycling.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The clipless pedal debate rages on
Jan 24, 2007
  1
Alt text: "Promotional poster for the film 'Klunkerz' featuring a group of people on mountain bikes. The poster includes the film's title, tagline 'They Re-Invented the Wheel,' and credits for contributions from various individuals in the mountain biking community, all set against a vintage-style background."
Culture
Klunkerz mountain bike movie
Jan 23, 2007
A close-up view of a bicycle wheel partially buried in snow, with black zip ties securing the tire to the rim. A wooden surface is visible in the background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Using zip ties for tire traction in snow
Jan 22, 2007
  3
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Culture
Mountain bike as weapon
Jan 22, 2007
Culture
Mountain bike hall of fame
Jan 22, 2007
Culture
Mountain bike trail art
Jan 19, 2007
  1
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Community
USA Cycling mountain bike calendar
Jan 18, 2007
A bright orange mountain bike with blue patterned rims resting against a gray concrete wall. The bike features a sleek design with a sturdy frame and front suspension, positioned on a dark asphalt surface.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Colorful mountain bike tires
Jan 17, 2007
A person riding a mountain bike along a dirt trail in a wooded area, surrounded by bare trees and fallen leaves. The cyclist is wearing a pink top and a helmet.
Mountain Bike Trails
Itusi Trail at Lake Norman State Park
Jan 17, 2007
It happens to everyone at least a couple times a year - you plan a gnarly mountain biking trip for weeks and on the day of your ride, it rains. Or even worse, it rains hard the night before your ride and is sunny the next day - but the trails are too wet to ride. Or what if it hasn't even rained in a week and you drive for an hour out to the trailhead only to find the trails are soaked? This situation can test even the staunchest responsible trail rider. Many of the trails here in the southeast are managed pretty closely and park rangers are able to "close" trails by posting closed signs on wet trails and answering phone inquiries regarding trail conditions. For trails that offer a phone service I almost NEVER go out to the trails without calling first. In my area there's even a website that keeps a (relatively) up to date listing of trail closures. But what about those trails that no one really "owns" or manages? We went out for a ride in <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=622">Chapel Hill</a> a couple weeks ago despite the fact that all the managed trails in the area were closed and found a wet, sloppy mess. We actually rode about a mile on the trails which was probably too much before deciding it wasn't a good idea to be riding that day. My new rule - if some area trails are closed, that probably means I shouldn't ride ANYWHERE that day. I have to admit though, it's tough to stay off the trails, especially when you've invested a great deal in getting to the trailhead (time, gas money, etc.).  I had some friends who drove 30 minutes out to the local trail and the park rangers told them it looked like it *might* rain so they couldn't go out. Frustrating for sure but you can't argue about preserving the few trails available to bikers.
Community
IMBA lobbying for cyclists in DC
Jan 16, 2007