Mountain Biking and the Environment

Ever since mountain biking took hold, which wasn't that long ago considering it wasn't recognized by the Olympics or other biking associations until the early 1990s, riders have clashed with environmentalists. Why? Because in many cases, the terrains the bikers choose to ride on (mountain biking is exclusively off-road) can be damaged or eroded by the bikes.

Further, because many mountain bikers simply started using hiking trails, animal paths, and other routes through forested areas, there were clashes with people who were not used to the speed and dangers of the mountain bikers on their territory.

Because they have faced troubles (interestingly enough, similar to skateboarders, who have been banned in many parking lots or other places) many mountain bikers came together to form associations and groups that can work to create trails appropriate for mountain biking, as well as maintain and restore trails that have been used by bikers. There are international groups, but also, many local and regional groups that have more specific concerns and causes in mind.

The groups try many different things, including setting rules, patrolling trails, maintaining trails, as well as creating flag systems and having people on the trails to help people using the trails, should they have a need for assistance.

One of the best known groups of this sort is the International Mountain Biking Association, also known as the IMBA. They help and represent nearly 1,000 independent groups around the world.

Nonetheless, many environmentalists claim mountain bikes do substantial harm to the trails and paths that they are ridden on. However, studies have shown that they do not do much more damage than a hiker and it is horse riders who do the most damage to terrain. Environmentalists are still not satisfied by this, as they do not feel that there should be any damage, and they also think many of the studies, sponsored by the IMBA, are biased.

Many bikers choose to not ride on muddy or damaged trails, as doing so can cause more damage. It is also suggested that they should avoid braking hard, digging into the ground, or sliding down the trails, as these activities can be more damaging than simply riding.