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 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
  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.
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
  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.
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.
  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.
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
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.
Alt tag: "Logo for Biking Gear featuring an image of a cycling shoe in black, orange, and blue."
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.
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.
  2
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
  3
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
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.
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.
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
  1
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
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.
Aluminum roller rack for bicycle maintenance, featuring adjustable rollers and a sturdy frame.
  1
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
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.
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.
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
  2
A Shimano bicycle pedal featuring a silver metallic body and clip mechanism, designed for secure shoe attachment during cycling.
  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."
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.
  3
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
  1
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
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.
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.
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
For those who haven't heard, the first ever <a href="http://www.npbikeextreme.com/">mountain bike race at the north pole</a> will take place on April 7. There are 13 riders signed up for the 2007 race, though sadly registration is closed at this time.

Have no fear though, you too can race your mountain bike to the North Pole in 2008! For just 12,000 Euros (about $15,700) you'll be entered to race in some of the most extreme conditions on earth (though I doubt there's much climbing). Your entry fee gets you airfare from Norway to a North Pole camp. Bikes are also included in your entry fee and it sounds like you even get to keep the Crescent MTB (North Pole Extreme edition). A medical doctor will be on site during the race and hotel accomodations (in Norway, not at the pole) are included in your entry fee.

Sounds like a great trip for anyone with too much money and a slightly unhealthy addiction to the sport of mountain biking.
<div style="text-align: center"><img alt="np_extreme_bike_pic.jpg" id="image119" src="data:image/svg+xml,%3Csvg%20xmlns=
  1
A group of cyclists races along a rural road while spectators watch and take photos from the roadside. The cyclists are wearing blue and white jerseys, and one is leading the pack. In the background, there are two vehicles parked on the shoulder and rocky terrain alongside the road.
Sock with a cartoon chicken design, featuring a red and white color scheme and the text "Ya Clucken" printed on the side, displayed on a wooden surface.
A smiling man swimming underwater, giving a thumbs-up gesture while wearing a waterproof device on his arm. The background features a clear blue ocean with coral visible below. The text "music.gives.Joy" is overlaid on the image.