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
 
A group of people gathered around a bike display at an outdoor event. Two individuals are inspecting a mountain bike while others converse near a tent displaying the Giant brand. Various bicycles are lined up in front of the tent, surrounded by tall trees in a sunny setting.
Community
Southeast Bike Expo This Weekend
Feb 21, 2012
  8
A close-up image of a bike bell attached to the handlebars of a bicycle. The bell has a shiny metallic surface, featuring a logo with a bicycle graphic and the word "SOMBA." The bell is secured with a black strap.
Mountain Bike Trails
Innovative Trail Conflict Solution: Bell Boxes
Feb 14, 2012
  21
A line graph depicting mountain bike ownership from 2008 to 2011, showing the percentage distribution of different types of bikes: 29ers (blue), FS (red), HT (orange), and Other (green). The graph illustrates changes in ownership trends over the four years, with percentages ranging from 0% to 100%.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
MTB Trends: The Rise of 29ers and Long Travel Bikes
Feb 9, 2012
  22
A pair of black and white cycling shoes placed inside an oven, with the oven lights on and metallic foil lining the rack below. The shoes show signs of use, indicating they are designed for cycling activities.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Louis Garneau T-Flex 300 "Macked Out" MTB Shoe Review
Feb 8, 2012
  10
A close-up view of a Five Ten athletic shoe featuring a gray and black design with blue accents. The shoe is displayed at an angle, showcasing its back and side, with a focus on the logo and distinctive design elements.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
New MTB Products From Outdoor Retailer
Jan 26, 2012
  3
A Magellan GPS device displaying workout statistics including distance (7.90 miles), time (56:23), pace (7:48 per mile), and heart rate (162 bpm). The device is black with a sleek, modern design.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
New GPS Gadgets for Mountain Bikers in 2012
Jan 25, 2012
  4
A close-up image showing a hand holding a tube with a black crimping ferrule positioned on a green surface. The tube has its end exposed, revealing its inner structure.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
How-to: Mountain Bike Cabling
Jan 23, 2012
  12
Mountain bikers navigating a winding trail through a forest in autumn, with colorful leaves scattered on the ground and trees lining the path.
MTB Tips
100 Days to the Cohutta 100 Mountain Bike Race
Jan 20, 2012
  7
A black and red mountain bike positioned on a rocky outcrop, with a cloudy sky in the background and green hills visible in the distance. The bike features sturdy tires, front suspension, and a lightweight frame, indicating it's designed for off-road cycling.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Santa Cruz Tallboy (Carbon) 29er Mountain Bike Build
Jan 16, 2012
  6
Alt tag: "Exterior of a bike shop named 'Absolute Bikes,' featuring a white building with red signage, large windows, and a few bicycles parked in front."
Culture
Iconic Mountain Bike Shops in the US
Jan 12, 2012
  14
Two mountain bikers ride down a dirt trail on a grassy hillside, with one biker jumping off a ramp while the other races closely behind. A ski lift can be seen in the background, surrounded by trees under a partly cloudy sky.
Culture
2011 MTB Highlights From the Singletracks Team
Dec 29, 2011
  13
A white and blue mountain bike with thick tires, a sleek frame, and front suspension, positioned on a plain background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Wheels4Life Teams w/ Crankbrothers to Auction Dream Bikes
Dec 22, 2011
  2
A close-up of a tree trunk with a directional road sign affixed to it, in a forested area. A winding, unpaved road is visible in the background, surrounded by greenery and sparse autumn foliage. The scene is overcast, suggesting a cool, damp atmosphere.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trail Tuesday: Bear Creek & Pinhoti Trail
Dec 20, 2011
  15
A bright pink bicycle positioned next to a decorated Christmas tree, creating a festive indoor scene. The tree is adorned with colorful ornaments and lights, while the warm wood floor adds to the cozy atmosphere.
Culture
Christmas Bikes: Funded!
Dec 14, 2011
  3
A group of cyclists walking through a shallow river while carrying their mountain bikes, set against a backdrop of mountains and a clear blue sky.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trail Tuesday: Alps 2 Ocean Cycle Trail, New Zealand
Dec 13, 2011
  3
A BMX rider performs a trick in mid-air, soaring over a rail at a crowded event. The audience, comprising both men and women, watches intently, capturing the excitement. Banners and promotional materials are visible in the background, indicating a biking or sports exhibition.
Community
Free Tix to 2012 London Bike Show
Nov 30, 2011
  5
Logo for the Flow Country Trail, featuring stylized text in yellow on a brown background, with a circular design and mountain icons.
Mountain Bike Trails
Go With the Flow: Flow Country Trails
Nov 22, 2011
  5
A close-up view of a black bicycle helmet with a mounted action camera on top, set against a backdrop of fallen leaves and blurred bicycles. The helmet features aerodynamic design elements, and the camera is centered for capturing footage while riding.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Drift HD Helmet Cam Review
Nov 16, 2011
  10
Rocky trail winding through a rugged landscape with scattered red rocks, patches of green foliage, and dense vegetation in the background.
Community
The Most Technical Mountain Bike Trails in the World
Nov 15, 2011
  16
A silver mountain bike with a large red bow is positioned next to a decorated Christmas tree. The tree is adorned with blue and gold ornaments, and a colorful blanket is draped on the floor beneath it.
Culture
Giving Project: 10 Christmas Bikes for Kids in 2011
Nov 14, 2011
  3
A mountain biker navigating a curved dirt trail in a wooded area, surrounded by trees and autumn foliage. The rider leans into the turn, showcasing their skill and control on the bike.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trail Tuesday: 2011 IMBA Epics
Nov 8, 2011
  7
A mountain biker riding along a trail surrounded by colorful autumn foliage, with a wooden trail sign labeled "GREEN'S LICK" and various trail markers visible.
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain Biking Pisgah: Bent Creek
Oct 27, 2011
  7
A mountain biker navigating a rocky trail in a forested area, wearing a helmet and cycling gear, with a race number visible on the front of their bike. Sunlight filters through the trees, highlighting the natural scenery.
Community
Mountain Bike Race Report: Baker's Dozen at Lick Fork
Oct 24, 2011
  7
A young child riding a bike on a dirt trail, leaning forward with excitement as dust kicks up behind. Lush greenery and bushes are visible in the background, suggesting a natural outdoor setting. The image captures a sense of adventure and carefree childhood.
Culture
Happy Birthday Mountain Biking!
Oct 21, 2011
  3
A black and yellow mountain bike is positioned on a rocky outdoor surface, surrounded by sparse trees and underbrush. The bike features thick, knobby tires, a lightweight frame, and disc brakes, suggesting it's designed for rugged terrain and off-road cycling. The scene is set in a natural environment, indicating a recreational biking area.
Community
Southeast Bike Expo Coming to GA International Horse Park
Oct 14, 2011
  6
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Light & Motion Seca 800 Review
Oct 12, 2011
  11
A pair of brown sunglasses resting on a bicycle component, with blurred greenery in the background, suggesting an outdoor setting.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Spy Optic Quanta Sunglasses Review
Sep 26, 2011
A display showcasing various 29er tires at a trade show. The image features a variety of tires labeled as "multi-compound" and "studded 29er." Attendees are examining the products while informational panels can be seen in the background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Interbike MTB Tire Report: Tubeless, 29ers, and Multi-Compound
Sep 21, 2011
  4
A blue mountain bike resting on rocky terrain in a desert landscape, surrounded by small shrubs and hills in the background under a cloudy sky.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
2012 Marin Rift Zone XC7 29er Review
Sep 19, 2011
A silver mountain bike with front suspension, standing on rocky, gravelly terrain, surrounded by sparse vegetation. The bike features thick tires suitable for off-road trails and has a sleek design ideal for mountain biking.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Yeti SB95 FS 29er Review
Sep 19, 2011
  2
A close-up side view of a high-performance mountain bike on a wooden display stand, featuring a black and orange color scheme. The bike is equipped with advanced components, including a front suspension fork, disc brakes, and a geared drivetrain, set against a backdrop of a cycling event with other bikes and people in the background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The Mountain Bikes of Interbike 2011
Sep 16, 2011
  5
Mountain bike prominently displayed on rocky terrain with a backdrop of hills and cloudy sky. The bike has a black frame and is covered in dirt, suggesting recent use in outdoor riding.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Giant Anthem X FS 29er Review
Sep 15, 2011
  8
A black fat bike leaning against a rocky surface, with large, thick tires designed for off-road terrain. The bike is covered in a light layer of dust, indicating previous use on a rugged trail.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Surly Moonlander Mountain Bike Review
Sep 15, 2011
  6
A mountain bike resting on rocky terrain in a desert landscape, featuring a sturdy frame with green accents, wide tires, and a small saddle bag attached to the seat. In the background, rugged hills and sparse vegetation are visible under a cloudy sky.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Trek Rumblefish FS 29er Review
Sep 15, 2011
  11
Mountain bike resting on rocky terrain with a backdrop of mountains and sparse vegetation. The bike features a sleek design with black and red accents, front suspension, and rugged tires, suggesting readiness for off-road adventures.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Specialized Camber Pro 29er Mountain Bike Review
Sep 14, 2011
  14
A black and white mountain bicycle parked on rocky terrain with a desert landscape in the background, featuring hills and sparse vegetation under a cloudy sky.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Redline d680 29er Mountain Bike Review
Sep 14, 2011
  1
A vibrant orange mountain bike positioned on a sandy, rocky terrain with sparse vegetation in the background.
Cross Country Bikes
Santa Cruz Tallboy Carbon 29er Mountain Bike Review
Sep 14, 2011
  13
A display of various bicycle handlebars arranged on a stand, featuring different sizes and colors, including white and black. The handlebars are labeled with numbers and brand names, and there are accompanying components, such as stems and grips, positioned below them on a perforated metal surface. In the background, abstract shapes and bicycle wheels can be seen, suggesting a cycling expo or trade show environment.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The Best MTB Gear of 2011
Sep 8, 2011
  5
A mobile app interface displaying photos of hiking trails on the left and a map of the area on the right. The photos include various landscapes, showcasing paths and trees. Below the photos, there are action buttons labeled “Update trail status,” “Check in,” “Review,” “Add to my trails,” and “Remove from my wishlist.” The map section shows terrain details and direction features.
Culture
Android App + Trail Progress Bars
Sep 2, 2011
  8
An image featuring a scenic mountain background next to a smartphone displaying information about the Bianchi Sok 29er Multi-speed bike, including its price of $1800 and rating. The left side of the image includes the logo for Singletracks, a biking community site.
Culture
Singletracks iPhone App Update
Aug 26, 2011
  11
A cyclist in a blue and white jersey stands next to a mountain bike on a wooded trail, with a fallen log across the path. The surroundings are filled with trees and leaves, suggesting a natural outdoor setting.
Culture
Spoiler Alert: Why I'm Not a Fan of Calling Out Obstacles on the Trail
Aug 22, 2011
  23
A sunny landscape featuring a dirt path winding through tall green grass, leading towards a rocky hillside in the background. The sky is clear blue, highlighting the natural scenery of rolling hills and vegetation.
Culture
USAPCC Stages 5&6: Steamboat Springs, Breck, Golden, & Denver
Aug 19, 2011
  1
Three mountain bikers riding through a lush green landscape with rolling hills and aspen trees, set against a backdrop of distant mountains under a clear blue sky.
Culture
USAPCC Stages 3&4: Vail, Avon, and Steamboat Springs
Aug 17, 2011
A winding dirt trail through a grassy landscape, surrounded by sparse shrubs and rocks, under a bright blue sky with a few clouds. A silhouette of a cyclist can be seen riding along the path in the distance.
Mountain Bike Trails
USAPCC Stage 2: Gunnison to Aspen
Aug 15, 2011
  3
A scenic view of a wide highway with a clear blue sky and scattered clouds. In the background, there are majestic mountains covered with greenery, while the foreground features a smooth, cracked asphalt road with a guardrail.
Community
USAPCC Stage 1: Salida to Crested Butte
Aug 15, 2011
  1
A scenic view of a park featuring red rock formations and greenery. A walking path winds through the landscape, with signposts indicating directions. The sky is clear and blue, enhancing the natural beauty of the surroundings.
Community
USAPCC Prologue Preview: Colorado Springs
Aug 11, 2011
  6
A winding dirt trail leads through a grassy hillside, flanked by clusters of evergreen trees, under a partly cloudy sky. The terrain varies from rocky patches to lush green vegetation, creating a serene outdoor scene ideal for hiking and nature exploration.
Community
USA Pro Cycling Challenge Coming to Colorado: A Mountain Biker's Guide
Aug 5, 2011
  1
A flat lay arrangement of cycling accessories including a green pair of gloves, various bike components in their packaging, a t-shirt with the "singletrack" logo, a membership card, and stickers that read "I Love Bike." The items are displayed on a dark surface, showcasing a variety of gear for biking enthusiasts.
Culture
Name that MTB Trail Contest Starts Today!
Aug 1, 2011
  1