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
 
Community
MLK Day of Service: Trail work
Jan 17, 2008
Close-up of a newspaper article titled "Money &," featuring a vintage style and sepia tones. The text suggests a focus on financial news and market trends.
Culture
Mountain Bike Investments: Stocks for 2008
Jan 16, 2008
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
MTB News Round Up: January 15, 2008
Jan 15, 2008
Community
Thomson Appreciation Day: This Saturday, January 19
Jan 14, 2008
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mountain bikes: More expensive than a dirt bike
Jan 11, 2008
A black cylindrical device with a sleek design, featuring the text "VidiR" on its surface. It has two horizontal slots and an orange indicator. The device is likely a type of camera accessory or mount.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Bike tech at CES this week
Jan 10, 2008
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Riding across Asia on a mountain bike
Jan 10, 2008
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Green mountain biking
Jan 9, 2008
  4
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Community
Trips for Kids to Host Tenth Annual "Brews, Bikes and Bucks" Event
Jan 8, 2008
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
MTB Tips
Setting goals: Epic rides in 2008
Jan 7, 2008
  2
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Vacuum-sealed MTB shoes AND riding at night without lights
Jan 4, 2008
  1
Culture
Find a trail, buy a helmet - On your phone!
Jan 3, 2008
  1
A winding dirt path through a forest, surrounded by trees and dense foliage. The ground is covered with fallen leaves, and sunlight filters through the branches, casting shadows along the trail. The path leads into the distance, inviting exploration.
Mountain Bike Trails
Stonewall Falls Ride Report
Jan 2, 2008
  2
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Bike from the dead
Dec 31, 2007
  2
A mountain biker in a blue outfit leans into a turn on a dirt trail, showcasing dynamic movement on a rocky path. In the background, spectators watch from the sidelines amidst a forested setting.
Community
MTB Predictions for 2008
Dec 28, 2007
  1
Community
Mountain biking in 2007: A review
Dec 26, 2007
Image alt text: Promotional poster for the Baja Epic Mountain Bike Race, scheduled for November 5-8, 2008, in Baja California, Mexico. The poster features an athlete on a bicycle with the number 608 displayed on the bike.
Community
Baja Epic Multi-stage Mountain Bike Race
Dec 24, 2007
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Rear-view camera for your bike
Dec 21, 2007
Two mountain bikers riding along a dirt path surrounded by greenery. One rider is wearing a blue jersey and white shorts, while the other is further up the path in a black shirt. There are signs and foliage lining the trail.
MTB Tips
Mountain biking for fitness in 2008
Dec 20, 2007
  1
Close-up view of a damaged computer motherboard showing burn marks and melted components. Wires appear singed, and blackened residue is present around the area of damage.
Community
Singletracks is all better now
Dec 20, 2007
A person riding a mountain bike on a dirt trail. They are wearing a helmet, sunglasses, and a dark jacket, with shorts and gloves. The background features dry grass and trees, indicating an outdoor setting.
Culture
Ride along with the Prez
Dec 19, 2007
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
SF mountain biker finalist for National Hero Award
Dec 18, 2007
Mountain Bike Trails
Liberty University to develop mountain bike trails
Dec 14, 2007
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Mountain Bike Trails
No such thing as a Free Lunch - until now!
Dec 12, 2007
A man sitting on a rocky surface under a bridge, wearing a red sweatshirt and gray pants, with a blue bicycle leaning against a wall beside him.
Culture
Bike shop helps out homeless man with new mountain bike
Dec 11, 2007
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Mountain Biking: A second coming
Dec 10, 2007
  2
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
California wildfires impact bike companies
Dec 7, 2007
A blue and black mountain bike with a modern design, featuring front suspension, disc brakes, and a gear system. The bike is positioned against a white background, highlighting its sleek frame and components.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
3 of the best mountain bikes?
Dec 7, 2007
A white and black dirt bike is parked on a rocky terrain, showcasing its rugged tires and lightweight design. The bike is positioned on a black stand, with a backdrop of red rock formations and dry grass, emphasizing its off-road capabilities.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mountain bike + Motorcycle = Rad
Dec 6, 2007
Magellan Triton GPS device featuring a color touchscreen display with navigation options including Waypoint, Place, Trail, Geocache, Route, and Trips. The device has an orange and black ergonomic design, with a circular navigation button and control keys.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The Magellan Triton 2000 GPS
Nov 29, 2007
Map of Colorado Springs, Colorado, displayed in Google Maps interface, showing terrain features and nearby search options.
Culture
Google Maps adds terrain
Nov 28, 2007
Mountain Bikes and Gear
What's on your holiday wish list? Fox forks and bikes that start with 'S'
Nov 27, 2007
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Bike company case study: Raleigh
Nov 26, 2007
Two men in outdoor apparel handling a deer carcass on a forest path, with bicycles nearby. One man is wearing an orange safety vest and helping to lift the deer onto the bike, while another man in camouflage observes. Pine trees surround the area, indicating a hunting or outdoor setting.
Culture
Deer hunting meets mountain biking
Nov 23, 2007
  3
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Mountain Bike Trails
Wal-Mart bike trail extension proposed
Nov 21, 2007
Alt tag: "A QUARQ cycling computer displaying various metrics, including wattage, cadence, speed, heart rate, lap time, and distance."
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Powerful bike computer + GPS from Quarq
Nov 19, 2007
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Community
World's most grueling mountain bike race: La Ruta
Nov 16, 2007
  1
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Culture
Illegal mountain biker winds up in federal court
Nov 15, 2007
A person crouches near a stream, beside a wooden display featuring a sign that reads "DIDY-GO" and bottles of a product. The surrounding area is lush with greenery.
Culture
Mountain bikes as bio-vectors
Nov 13, 2007
A winding dirt path through a tranquil forest, surrounded by tall trees with a mix of green and autumn-colored leaves. The ground is covered with fallen leaves, and the path leads into the distance, inviting exploration of the serene, natural landscape.
Mountain Bike Trails
Ride Report: Raccoon Mountain, Tennessee
Nov 12, 2007
A person wearing an orange shirt and helmet is riding a mountain bike, positioned in a natural outdoor setting with a clear sky in the background. The rider appears focused and poised, with a backpack on, showcasing a dynamic cycling posture.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Introducing our Senior Bike Editor
Nov 8, 2007
  3
A winding dirt path cuts through a grassy landscape, surrounded by low hills and scattered rocks under a partly cloudy sky.
Mountain Bike Trails
Connecting Hall Ranch and Heil Valley Ranch
Nov 8, 2007
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Community
National Mountain Bike Series Ignores East Coast
Nov 7, 2007
A mountain biker riding down stone steps near a historic archway, surrounded by large rocks and ancient stone walls. The scene is set against a clear sky, highlighting the cyclist's action.
Mountain Bike Trails
Epic Ride Report: Grande Route of Historical Villages, Portugal
Nov 6, 2007
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Mountain Bike Trails
A frozen Moab?
Nov 5, 2007
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Community
Trail Weekend @ Hueston Woods: Nov 9-11
Nov 2, 2007
For some folks the upcoming 3-day weekend will be a good chance to hit the slopes but here's another idea: Give back to your local trails. Students at the University of Washington, for one, are <a href="http://thedaily.washington.edu/2008/1/16/help-build-bike-park/">asking volunteers to help</a> build trails at the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/blog/?p=225">I-5 Collonade project</a> site in Seattle. If your local club hasn't organized anything, why not hit the trails yourself and do a rolling trail clean-up? Winter can be unkind to the trails with trees and branches falling due to ice and many times all it takes is a little effort to lift and move debris from the trail. Or heck, maybe you could even pack a folding tree saw like this one in your CamelBak! <div style="text-align: center"><img alt="prunning-saw.jpg" id="image666" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
Mountain Bike Trails
Best trail in the world
Nov 1, 2007
Close-up image of a black insect, commonly referred to as a stinkbug or clown beetle, positioned on a surface of small gravel or dirt. The insect is shown from a top-down angle, highlighting its distinct body shape and long antennae.
Culture
Mountain bikers: Yield to wildlife?
Oct 26, 2007
  2