Ray Ford posted a controversial piece for the Santa Barbara Independent calling for increased regulation of mountain bikes on Santa Barbara area trails. Ford seems to argue that bikes shouldn’t be allowed on “front country trails,” which as far as I can gather, are the trails closest to the town of Santa Barbara – while backcountry trails should remain open to bikes.
Of course none of this would be all that surprising given that it’s coming out of California except for the fact that Ford is a mountain biker himself and has ridden these trails for years. The piece doesn’t go so far as to use the words “ban” or “illegal” with regards to mountain bikes but Ford does seem to suggest exclusive non-mechanized usage of the trails. Could it be old age that’s convinced Ford that mountain bikes are just too fast for proper nature enjoyment?
Anyway, read the article for yourself and leave your comments at the bottom of the story; also note that a link to contact Ford can be found in the byline. And please be civil – no need to further sully the reputation of mountain bikers in the eyes of the press 😉
