Jeff Barber

Jeff co-founded Singletracks with his wife Leah in 1998 and has been dedicated to sharing the mountain bike information that inspires others to take epic adventures ever since. He started mountain biking in high school and served in the US Air Force before devoting himself full time to Singletracks in 2007.

Though formally educated as an engineer, Jeff began writing stories at an early stage, inspired by his mother who is a longtime accomplished author. He enjoys covering the world of mountain biking from every possible angle, whether it's trails or gear or skills. His goal for every story: that readers learn at least one new thing.

Author snapshot

MTB Background and expertise

  • Riding experience: Trail, XC, and bikepacking.
  • Mountain biking since: 1992
  • Number of products reviewed: ?. I think my first product review for the site was this one for a plastic wallet.
  • Current stable: Canyon Neuron, Orange P7 hardtail, and Scott Fun XC

Education and writing experience

  • Bachelors of Science in Engineering, Duke University
  • Masters of Business Administration, Duke University
  • Other publications: Panther Press (Lakeside High School - Augusta, GA), CitySearch.com
 
Close-up of a mountain bike tire and wheel, showcasing the treads and spokes against a blurred natural background. The tire is labeled with "Mazza" and "Trail" branding, emphasizing its suitability for off-road cycling.
  2
A mountain biker navigates over rocky terrain beneath a rocky overhang, surrounded by lush greenery. The rider is wearing a helmet and a backpack, focusing intently on the trail ahead.
  1
Text graphic advertising a "Tool Sale" with a colorful geometric background and illustrations of various tools, including hex keys, pliers, and a pump.
A wooden A-frame sign displaying a bicycle wheel graphic and the word "SERVICE," pointing left. In the background, several vehicles are parked, with a grassy area and trees visible.
  6
A mountain biker in blue gear leans into a bend on a dirt trail surrounded by lush greenery, showcasing an action-packed moment of cycling on rugged terrain.
  2
Close-up of a mountain bike with a turquoise frame on rocky terrain. A foot wearing a gray shoe is positioned on the pedal, and a water bottle is secured in the frame. The bike features tires with a rugged tread, suitable for trail riding.
  1
A man in a blue shirt and black shorts rides a mountain bike on a dirt trail in a rocky desert landscape, wearing a light-colored helmet and sunglasses. He is focused on navigating the terrain, surrounded by sparse vegetation and boulders in the background.
  1
A mountain biker navigating a rocky trail, maneuvering down a slope with focus and determination. The rider is wearing a helmet and sunglasses, and the bike features a teal frame and knobby tires, set against a backdrop of dry, rugged terrain and a cloudy sky.
Image of several different mountain bikes arranged in a row, set against a bright yellow background. The text "WORTH THE $$" is prominently displayed in the center, emphasizing the value of the bikes.
A group of cyclists is gathered outside a bike shop called Comet Trail Cycles, which has a brick facade. Various bicycles are parked in front, and several people are interacting, some adjusting their bikes. The scene is set against a cloudy sky, with trees and vehicles in the background. The atmosphere appears lively and focused on biking activities.
  6
Two shot glasses filled with vibrant green liquid sit on a dark blue outdoor table, surrounded by lush greenery. One glass contains a slightly thicker green mixture with small flecks, while the other holds a lighter, smooth green liquid. The glasses are branded with a logo that reads "DeCatur Beer Festival."
  5
A campsite featuring a green and red tent set up on a wooden platform, with a person sitting nearby, engaged in outdoor activity. Lush trees and foliage provide a natural backdrop, with a pathway visible in the background. Camping gear is scattered around the scene.
  3
A close-up view of several mountain bikes secured in the back of a blue pickup truck, showing their muddy tires and gear bags. The bikes are lined up, showcasing various colors and styles against a backdrop of trees and vehicles.
  11
Two mountain bikers navigate a grassy trail in a park during sunset. One cyclist, wearing a blue shirt and black helmet, leans into a turn, while the other, dressed in a red shirt and orange helmet, follows closely behind. In the background, a stone bridge and lush green trees create a scenic atmosphere.
  24
A partially opened tool pouch featuring a bright yellow interior with various tools and supplies organized inside. Items include a black marker, a small container, a bottle of sealant, and a bright orange tool, all resting on a bed of grass and leaves.
  10
A hand holding a Garmin GPS device displaying a detailed map of a hiking trail, surrounded by greenery in a forested area.
  2
A promotional image featuring a Memorial Day sale. It includes a black and pink cycling helmet, a short-sleeve plaid shirt, a green camping stove, a mountain bike, and an insulated water bottle. The text "Memorial Day SALE" is prominently displayed in the background.
A close-up image of a person wearing a white mountain biking helmet, leaning over their bike's handlebars on a forest trail. The person's arms are tattooed, and they are dressed in a black shirt, with a focus on the bike's controls and the earthen trail in the background.
  3
Adam Miller in a workshop holds a mountain bike with a white frame labeled "REVEL." The background features shelves filled with materials and bike parts, as well as tools and equipment for bike assembly.
  8
A mountain bike secured on a Yakima bike rack attached to the back of a black pickup truck, set against a backdrop of trees and a grassy area.
  15
A smartphone displaying fitness tracking data on a bed of gravel. The screen shows heart rate, sleep duration, steps taken, calories burned, and weekly activity stats including running and cycling distances.
  1
A collection of outdoor gear and clothing displayed on a vibrant, colorful background. Items include patterned shorts, a floral shirt, a smartwatch, gloves with tactile fingertips, a tent, an orange camping cot, and a camouflage t-shirt.
A wooden sign marked "Bear Creek Trail" with an arrow pointing left, surrounded by lush green foliage and trees. In the background, two cyclists are seen near their bikes.
  14
A close-up of a blue mountain bike frame against a natural landscape, featuring rugged hills and a sunset sky. The bike highlights include the suspension system, handlebars, and tires, showcasing its design and functionality. The background presents a scenic view of varying terrain.
  5
Image of a SRAM GX Eagle rear derailleur along with various accessories, including a battery, charging dock, and cables, set against a gradient pink and yellow background.
A person with glasses is working on a mechanical assembly, using a tool to assemble a part. Various tools, including wrenches and other mechanical items, are arranged on a workbench in the background.
Promotional image featuring various cycling accessories, including a bike computer, a bike light, a chain cleaning tool, a digital pump, and a bike seat post, with a bold text overlay indicating a 20% discount.
Close-up of a Rocky Mountain Instinct mountain bike, showcasing the rear wheel and drivetrain. The bike features Maxxis tires and a visible chain and gearing system. The background features green fields and mountains, indicating an outdoor setting. The image captures the bike's design and ruggedness, highlighting its suitability for trail riding.
  2
A collection of clothing tags displayed on a wooden surface, including a prominent red tag showing a price of $89.00 for a men's shirt in "Olive Meteor" color. Other tags include details for various clothing items such as a wind jacket and long-sleeve jersey, with information on sizes, materials, and manufacturers.
  11
A close-up image of a gray bicycle bag mounted on the top tube of a bike, featuring the REI Co-op logo in gold. The background is blurred with greenery, suggesting an outdoor setting. The bag is secured with Velcro straps and has a zipper on top.
  10
Close-up view of a mountain bike's front wheel and suspension fork, featuring a black FOX fork with orange branding, a blue hub, and a silver disc brake rotor. The background includes green grass and a wooden fence, emphasizing the outdoor setting.
  5
A close-up of a person's hands using a digital tire pressure gauge to check the pressure of a bicycle tire. The bike's tire is resting on a gravelly surface, and the gauge is connected to the valve stem. The tire features a yellow logo, and dirt is visible on the hands, indicating an outdoor cycling environment.
A person wearing a blue beanie and gray long-sleeve shirt is seen bending over in a forested area, using a long stick to interact with a rocky surface covered in moss. The ground is covered with fallen leaves, and there are some bare trees in the background.
  21
Image alt tag: A collection of various mechanical parts and fasteners, including chains, screws, nuts, and connectors, arranged on a dark background with the text "STOCK UP FOR ZERO DOWNTIME" prominently displayed in the center.
A mountain biker riding on a dirt trail through a lush, green forest. The cyclist is wearing a red helmet and cycling gear, focused on navigating the winding path. Trees surround the trail, with fresh leaves visible, creating a vibrant spring atmosphere. Mama Bear mountain bike trail.
  11
A close-up view of an action hoe, also known as a loop, stirrup, hula, and scuffle hoe, with a wooden handle being used to cut a trail in a grassy area, with green vegetation in the foreground.
  1
A close-up of a bicycle frame with the word "CANYON" prominently displayed, featuring a brown water bottle securely mounted on the frame. The background is blurred, showcasing a natural setting with greenery and soft foliage.
  2
A dirt bike trail under construction in a forest setting, with freshly built sections of the trail visible. Red caution tape is placed across parts of the path, and a piece of construction equipment is seen in the background. The area is surrounded by tall trees and scattered rocks on the ground.
  3
A mountain biker performing a jump on a dirt trail surrounded by tall grass and trees, with a clear blue sky in the background. The rider is wearing a helmet and padded gear for safety.
  6
A close-up view of a mountain bike pedal and shoe. A black sneaker with white laces and a textured sole rests on a blue pedal, surrounded by a blurred natural background of greenery and dirt. The bike frame is partially visible, showcasing its design with the word "FORB" on it.
  1
A close-up image of a bicycle wheel showing a tire with a black valve stem, next to a bottle of TPU Tube Sealant and a carbon fiber tire lever. The background features green moss and small plants, highlighting a natural outdoor setting.
  5
Close-up of an orange Ari mountain bike frame, featuring the word "ARI" visibly displayed along the side. The image captures the handlebars, front fork, and part of the wheel, set against a background of rocky terrain.
  8
A man riding a bicycle on a pump track in an urban park. He is wearing a helmet and a patterned shirt, smiling as he navigates the course. In the background, there is a modern building labeled "URBANZ" and several people engaging with a play area featuring swings. The sky is partly cloudy with a blue backdrop.
  5
A mountain bike with a sleek gold frame parked on a dirt trail surrounded by greenery and fallen leaves. The bike features a black front fork, thick tires, and a prominent gear setup, highlighting its readiness for outdoor adventures.
  12
Two mountain bikers help each other lift a bike over a fallen log in a wooded area. One biker is holding the front wheel while the other supports the frame, both are wearing helmets and outdoor gear. The surrounding trees are bare, indicating early spring.
  14
A colorful bicycle shop interior featuring a variety of bicycles on display, including road and mountain bikes. The walls are adorned with bicycle-themed posters, and shelves showcase bike accessories such as tires and grips. The ambiance is vibrant, with a mix of urban art and organized merchandise.
  4
Alt text: A black Five Ten Freerider Pro cycling shoe featuring a BOA closure system and red detailing, positioned against a light gray background. The shoe is designed for optimal performance and grip in biking activities.