“If you’re willing to drive an hour, you can hit a dozen trail systems,” said Dan Sahli, Five Rivers MetroParks outdoor recreation coordinator. “And, for the most part, these are easy trail systems – very beginner friendly.
“Mountain biking is not something to be intimidated by, it’s a lot of fun.”
Many agree with Sahli as the Outdoor Industry Foundation reports that an estimated 40 million people participate in the sport annually in the United States. And if you can ride a bike, you already know the basics of the sport that ranks second in participation only to hiking as far as trail activities.
Dispelling misperceptions
Mountain biking isn’t just for kids.
“One of the biggest misconceptions I hear is that mountain biking is a bunch of teenagers,” said Andy Williamson, International Mountain Bicycling Association Great Lakes Region director. “I’ve seen riders in their 60s and 70s really tear it up. And, the other day, I saw a mom and her two young children riding together – that’s the future of this sport. It’s very family oriented.”
Williamson has been riding since he was a child, getting more involved with the sport when he was in college.
“It’s an escape for me,” he said. “And it also keeps you really healthy.”
Participant age aside, the sport itself can be misunderstood.
“If your perception of mountain biking is from the X Games or a Mountain Dew commercial, that’s not what it is,” Sahli said. “Basically, you’re riding in the woods, in between trees. There’s an occasional root or rock and the turns might be a bit sharper than you’re used to but it’s still about balance and still about steering. It’s not crazy, crazy stuff out there. It really is for everyone.”
Getting started
You don’t have to make a major investment of time or money to give mountain biking a try.
Five Rivers MetroParks opened MoMBA in 2007 at Huffman MetroPark. The facility features the area’s first fully sustainable trail system designed to International Mountain Bike Association standards specifically for mountain bike use. From a rock-bottom creek to a rock-filled ridge, MoMBA has more than eight miles of trails for beginner and experienced riders alike.
You don’t even need to have a bike, as the MetroParks’ Try Mountain Biking programs have bikes you can try free of charge. Just bring a helmet.
“If you’re not wanting to make a financial investment, there’s nothing better than the Try Mountain Biking program,” Williamson said. “And there is no better time, because this whole region is just amazing in the fall.”
If you decide mountain biking is for you, both Williamson and Sahli agree that the best place to buy a bike of your own is at a local bike shop to ensure the right fit.
“There are bikes at the big-box stores that look like mountain bikes, but if you read the small print, it says ‘not meant for off-road travel,’ so by going to a bike shop you will find something better suited for your needs,” Williamson said.
Getting involved
Trail rides are not all the area has to offer.
The Miami Valley Mountain Bike Association, a local chapter of the IMBA, is very active in the area. MVMBA sponsors local rides, clinics and races.
The MetroParks are always looking for volunteers for their MoMBA Trail Work Days where you can learn about sustainable trail building and help maintain the local facility.
People also get together informally.
“If I’m going for a ride, it’s easy to find people to go with,” Sahli said.
The Midwest Outdoor Experience, formerly GearFest, Oct. 5-6 at Eastwood MetroPark, will also have demonstrations, events and vendors of interest to mountain biking enthusiasts.
Classes, clinics and riding opportunities become more plentiful in the region as fall gets into full swing.
“It’s really a perfect time to try it for yourself,” Sahli said.
MetroParks mountain biking events
For additional information or registration for these events, go online to www.metroparks.org.
* Intro to Mountain Biking – This classroom based program will introduce you to mountain biking equipment and skills.
When: Sept. 6, 6:30-8:30 p.m.
Where: Wegerzyn Gardens MetroPark
Cost: $5
* MoMBA Trail Work Days – Learn about sustainable trail building while helping maintain the mountain bike trails at MoMBA. No experience necessary; tools are provided; bring work gloves.
When: Sept. 8, noon-4 p.m.; Sept. 13, 6-8:30 p.m.; Oct. 20, noon-4 p.m.; Nov. 3, noon-4 p.m.
Where: Huffman MetroPark
Cost: Free
Ages: 14 years and older
* Mountain Biking Basics – Practical training for those who have competed the Intro to Mountain Biking class at MoMBA.
When: Sept. 15, 9 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Huffman MetroPark
Cost: $15
* MoMBA Anniversary Ride – Celebrate five years of MoMBA, MetroParks Mountain Bike Area at Huffman MetroPark.
When: Sept. 15, 3-5 p.m.
Where: Huffman MetroPark
Cost: Free
* Try Mountain Biking – No bike, no problem as you can borrow on of the MetroParks program bikes and try the sport.
When: Sept. 27, 4-7 p.m.; Oct. 25, 4-7 p.m.
Where: Huffman MetroPark
Cost: Free
* MoMBA XC Classic – Join the MVMBA-IMBA and Five Rivers MetroParks for the Annual MoMBA XC Classic, the only XC MTB race held as part of the Midwest Outdoor Experience.
When: Sept. 30, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Huffman MetroPark
Cost: $15
* Events are designed for all ages unless otherwise noted
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