Latest mountain bike news

A wooded area with a wooden ramp leading down to a dirt bike track. A warning sign is visible on a tree, and a group of cyclists is gathered at the base of the ramp near the track. The scene is surrounded by trees, with a rocky hillside in the background.
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Two mountain bikes are displayed side by side, both featuring an olive green frame. The bike on the left showcases a classic design with a prominent suspension system, while the bike on the right has a more modern frame and streamlined features. Both bikes are equipped with thick, rugged tires suitable for off-road terrain.
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A mountain bike featuring a bronze-colored aluminum frame, front suspension fork, and knobby tires suitable for off-road terrain. The bike is shown from a side angle, displaying its gear system and disc brakes.
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A close-up of a person smiling while holding a hand of playing cards, showing an Ace, King, and a pair of eights in hearts, with a blurred natural background.
A bright green bicycle frame with a distinctive design, featuring a rear shock absorber and branded with the name "Morewood." The frame is angled to highlight its structure against a gradient black background.
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Two SRAM double-tap shifters in silver with black accents, featuring a curved lever design, displayed on a counter. Cables are attached, and part of a bicycle component is visible in the foreground.
A group of mountain bikers competing in a race, captured in motion as they accelerate across a grassy field. Several participants are wearing colorful jerseys and helmets, with numbers displayed on their bikes. Spectators can be seen in the background, watching the race. Trees line the background, suggesting an outdoor event.
A man wearing a black 'LIVESTRONG' t-shirt with a yellow logo, looking slightly to the side with a focused expression. The background is plain and uncluttered.
A streamlined, futuristic vehicle speeding along a deserted road with mountains in the background, showcasing a vast, open landscape. The vehicle features a smooth, aerodynamic design with a white upper half and a black lower half, suggesting a focus on efficiency and speed.
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A mountain biker riding through a lush green meadow, with a background of tall trees and snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky.
A dog wearing a black helmet, showcasing its profile and floppy ears.
A group of cyclists and spectators gathered at a mountainous location, with some individuals holding a banner that reads "Powered by Chipotle." The scene captures the enthusiasm of cycling fans, with colorful flags and team jerseys visible, as they cheer on participants in a cycling event.
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Map of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, showing marked trails, scenic areas, and surrounding roads. The map highlights various points of interest and includes symbols for amenities and features within the area.
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A silhouette of a person riding a bicycle on a hill against a backdrop of a dusk sky filled with soft clouds and tree outlines.
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Image of two mountain bikes side by side on a white background. The left bike has a more robust frame and thicker tires, while the right bike is sleeker with narrow tires. Above the bikes, there is a green map outline of the United States.
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A green vintage bike with wide tires and a unique curved frame is positioned on a wooden surface. The bike features a distinctive handlebar design, a spring seat, and is set against a backdrop of wooden panels and a closed door.
A humorous illustration comparing four political figures to different types of bicycles, with each figure accompanied by a bike that symbolically represents them. The top features one figure pairing with a red road bike, the second with a black commuter bike, the third with a vintage penny-farthing, and the fourth with a children's tricycle.
Aerial view of a tranquil lake surrounded by lush green forests, with a sandy beach and boats along the shore. The scene captures the clear blue water transitioning to lighter shades near the shoreline, framed by rocky outcrops in the foreground.
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Two mountain bikers navigate a dirt track during a competitive race. One rider, wearing a blue helmet and black and yellow gear, leans into a turn, kicking up dust, while the other biker, dressed in black and white, closely trails behind. Spectators can be seen in the background, enjoying the event under a clear blue sky.
A sleek, minimalist bicycle with a shiny gold frame, featuring a brown leather saddle and handlebars. The wheels have striking gold accents, set against a dark background that highlights the bicycle's design and elegant curves.
A mountain bike race scene featuring two cyclists navigating a turn. One cyclist in a blue jersey and helmet is leading, while another in a red and white jersey trails closely behind. Spectators are on the sidelines, including a woman taking a photo. The background shows a blue sky and a fence with a Hyundai advertisement.
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<img id="image1409" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/freeride-jump2.jpg" alt="freeride-jump2.jpg" />

<em>Santos in Ocala, FL</em>

Building freeride structures for mountain bikes used to be a trial and error process, and for some mountain bike trail builders it still is. Fortunately the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) has started sharing best practices for building freeride structures (also known as North Shore junk) and the website is a great place to start for aspiring freeride trail builders.

In an article titled "<a href="http://www.imba.com/resources/trail_building/wood_guidelines.html">Construction Guidelines for Wooden Technical Trail Features</a>," the IMBA gurus recommend choosing materials that are resistant to rot and decay for freeride structures and this is definitely a good place to start. There's really nothing sadder to me than seeing a rotten, broken ladder bridge or jump on the trail - when a freeride structure dies it's as if a part of me dies too. Seriously, picking the right wood for the conditions is important and IMBA recommends you avoid direct wood contact with the dirt - try to use rocks or concrete footings to elevate your structure off the ground. It's also a good idea to make your structure extra strong and IMBA has some good tips for that as well. Remember that a clydesdale rider landing a jump onto your structure can exert a force greater than 3-times his weight - better add a few extra supports just in case.

<img id="image1410" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/freeride-ladder-bridge.jpg" alt="freeride-ladder-bridge.jpg" />

<em><a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=645">Legend Park</a> in Clayton, NC </em>

IMBA has another great article titled "<a href="http://www.imba.com/resources/trail_building/ladder_bridge.html">10 Tips to Build a Ladder Bridge</a>" you'll want to check out as well. I know, I know, you may be a bit skeptical about IMBA's "tips" thinking these are all about being safe and sustainable but it turns out IMBA likes to party as well. This article encourages freeride builders to add challenges by varying bridge heights and widths, adding turns and camber, incorporating drop-offs, and changing bridge inclines and declines. With just a little imagination you can take IMBA's tips and come up with some seriously wacky stuff that would challenge even the Collective film riders. I'm thinking someone should invent a computer game, Sim Freeride Builder, to see what's possible. Anyone up to the challenge?

<img id="image1411" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/freeride-teeter.jpg" alt="freeride-teeter.jpg" />

<em>Our backyard teeter totter in Durham, NC </em>

You may recall that <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=37">we built our own freeride furniture</a> a couple years back in the form of a teeter-totter. This was a fun project for me because I'm a big fan of woodworking and building stuff and it's totally doable even if you have a tiny yard. I think imagining and building freeride structures is almost as fun as riding them - almost.

If this article has got you stoked to go out and build your own freeride structures at the local trail system, slow down just a second. <a href="http://www.hickhucksters.com/illegal-trail-building/">Read about the history</a> of the Hick Hucksters if you haven't already and recognize that you need permission before you build ANYTHING on land that isn't your own. If, on the other hand, you already own the acreage, go nuts! And send us the pics and specs, we'd love to share them with everyone else!

P.S. - We just added a <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/forum2/viewforum.php?f=95">Freeride forum</a> here on singletracks and Mongoose is already posting pics of his rig. Drop by and say what up.
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A sleek, modern mountain bike featuring a black and red frame, front suspension, and advanced gear components. The bike is positioned against a plain white background, highlighting its design and features.
Image alt tag: A promotional poster for the Pixie Cross World Championship featuring two cyclists racing on 16-inch bicycles in a colorful, lively environment. The poster includes event details such as the date (Saturday, July 12th), location (Downtown Downieville, next to the fire station), and a description of the open class event. Graphics include the WTB logo and striking typography.
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A cyclist sitting on a folding chair in a natural outdoor setting, with a mountain bike leaning against the chair. The cyclist, wearing a colorful biking outfit, appears contemplative as the sun sets in the background, illuminating the surrounding landscape.
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A group of four mountain bikers wearing helmets and numbered jerseys ride along a dirt trail through a grassy field, with spectators in the background. The scene captures a competitive cycling event, showcasing the riders focused on their performance.
A mountain biker in a blue and black outfit stands next to a white 2009 GT Avalanche 1.0 bike, while another cyclist in an athletic outfit sits on the ground in a wooded area. The scene depicts a trail with greenery surrounding them.
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A mountain biker in a red and white jersey rides through a rocky terrain at night, illuminated by bike lights. The image features the text "24 Hours of Moab" and mentions the race's significant cash prizes, celebrating its 13th year.
A cyclist riding a mountain bike along a rocky trail, with a scenic view of a valley and distant mountains in the background. The landscape features sparse vegetation and is characterized by earthy tones and rocky terrain under a partly cloudy sky.
A dirt path winding through a lush forest of evergreen trees, with rolling hills and a cloudy blue sky in the background.
A businessman in a suit and tie poses confidently while sitting on a bicycle, with his arms crossed. The background is plain white, highlighting his professional attire contrasted with the casual nature of the bike.
A person wearing a red helmet and a pink tank top stands next to a mountain bike in a rocky, desert landscape. The background features dry shrubs and hills under a clear blue sky.
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<img id="image1409" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/freeride-jump2.jpg" alt="freeride-jump2.jpg" />

<em>Santos in Ocala, FL</em>

Building freeride structures for mountain bikes used to be a trial and error process, and for some mountain bike trail builders it still is. Fortunately the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) has started sharing best practices for building freeride structures (also known as North Shore junk) and the website is a great place to start for aspiring freeride trail builders.

In an article titled "<a href="http://www.imba.com/resources/trail_building/wood_guidelines.html">Construction Guidelines for Wooden Technical Trail Features</a>," the IMBA gurus recommend choosing materials that are resistant to rot and decay for freeride structures and this is definitely a good place to start. There's really nothing sadder to me than seeing a rotten, broken ladder bridge or jump on the trail - when a freeride structure dies it's as if a part of me dies too. Seriously, picking the right wood for the conditions is important and IMBA recommends you avoid direct wood contact with the dirt - try to use rocks or concrete footings to elevate your structure off the ground. It's also a good idea to make your structure extra strong and IMBA has some good tips for that as well. Remember that a clydesdale rider landing a jump onto your structure can exert a force greater than 3-times his weight - better add a few extra supports just in case.

<img id="image1410" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/freeride-ladder-bridge.jpg" alt="freeride-ladder-bridge.jpg" />

<em><a href="http://www.singletracks.com/php/trail.php?id=645">Legend Park</a> in Clayton, NC </em>

IMBA has another great article titled "<a href="http://www.imba.com/resources/trail_building/ladder_bridge.html">10 Tips to Build a Ladder Bridge</a>" you'll want to check out as well. I know, I know, you may be a bit skeptical about IMBA's "tips" thinking these are all about being safe and sustainable but it turns out IMBA likes to party as well. This article encourages freeride builders to add challenges by varying bridge heights and widths, adding turns and camber, incorporating drop-offs, and changing bridge inclines and declines. With just a little imagination you can take IMBA's tips and come up with some seriously wacky stuff that would challenge even the Collective film riders. I'm thinking someone should invent a computer game, Sim Freeride Builder, to see what's possible. Anyone up to the challenge?

<img id="image1411" src="https://images.singletracks.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/freeride-teeter.jpg" alt="freeride-teeter.jpg" />

<em>Our backyard teeter totter in Durham, NC </em>

You may recall that <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=37">we built our own freeride furniture</a> a couple years back in the form of a teeter-totter. This was a fun project for me because I'm a big fan of woodworking and building stuff and it's totally doable even if you have a tiny yard. I think imagining and building freeride structures is almost as fun as riding them - almost.

If this article has got you stoked to go out and build your own freeride structures at the local trail system, slow down just a second. <a href="http://www.hickhucksters.com/illegal-trail-building/">Read about the history</a> of the Hick Hucksters if you haven't already and recognize that you need permission before you build ANYTHING on land that isn't your own. If, on the other hand, you already own the acreage, go nuts! And send us the pics and specs, we'd love to share them with everyone else!

P.S. - We just added a <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/forum2/viewforum.php?f=95">Freeride forum</a> here on singletracks and Mongoose is already posting pics of his rig. Drop by and say what up.
  2
A red helicopter flying above a rocky cliff, with a group of people gathered near a Red Bull-flavored archway at the top. The sky is clear blue, and the scene appears to be part of an event or competition, showcasing the excitement of outdoor sports.
A split image featuring two scenes from a mountain biking event. The top section shows several riders in action on a rugged trail, with trees and shrubs in the background. The bottom section displays a close-up view of a group of cyclists racing side by side on a dirt path, each wearing colorful jerseys and racing numbers.
A purple bicycle with cream-colored tires, featuring a camera mounted on the handlebars and solar panels alongside a control panel on the rear. The bike is positioned against a light-colored wall.
A man with short hair, wearing a black athletic shirt, looks over his shoulder with his tongue slightly visible between his lips. A second man stands nearby, partially in the background, with a neutral expression. The setting features a light-colored wall with a floral pattern.
Two mountain bikers riding on a forest trail, wearing helmets and focused on their path. The image includes a logo for SORBA (Southern Off-Road Bicycling Association) in the corner.
Close-up of a bicycle's drive train, showing a chain, derailleur, and part of the frame. A section of the chainstay is visible, with protective tubing on it. The background appears to be a concrete surface.
A group of people watching a bicycle competition in a gravel area, where a cyclist is attempting to ride under a low bar while balancing on a small bike. Some participants are cheering, and there's a tent in the background with bicycles and equipment.
Alt text: Promotional poster for the 3rd Annual Triangle Fat Tire Festival, scheduled for October 4, 2008, from 9 AM to 9 PM at Lake Crabtree County Park in Morrisville, NC. The poster features a bicycle graphic and details about events including "Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day," bike demos, and an endurance race titled "Curse at the Crab."
A tangled pile of black rubber hoses resting on a dry, reddish-brown surface.
A mountain bike displayed on a stand at a trade show, with a digital screen in the background showing a similar bike. The bike features a sleek black frame with red accents, distinct tires, and a modern design.
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Close-up view of a bicycle's drivetrain, showcasing a titanium frame, a red rear hub, a black chainring, and a blue belt drive. The intricate details of the components, including the cranks and gears, are visible against a dark background.
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A display of colorful bicycle rims at a trade show, with several people examining the display in the foreground. The rims are arranged in rows, showcasing a variety of colors, including red, blue, green, and yellow, among others. Various banners and signage can be seen in the background.