Doing our part to preserve the trails...

[sheclimbs]

Just thought I would try and plant a seed and raise everyones consciousness a bit...the past weekend we attended a CORBA fund raiser. Concered Off Road Bicycle Association... I found it disconcerting that while we were out on the trails - at a CORBA event - there were a number of riders that don't seem to know the standard trail rules. I guess I am fortunate that on my first MTB ride, the very first thing my veteran guide taught me was the basic rules of the trail...I'm happy to say that in the several years I've been riding I have never witnessed anyone in our group disrespect the rules, of course it may have happened, but I've never witnessed it and if it does happen it's a rare occurance.

Since we are all passionate about our riding and maintaining and even gaining trail access, I think it might behoove us all to take a minute and make sure that we share the the basic rules of the trail with every new rider.

Since we have a big event this weekend that will include many "newbies" and we seem to have a regular schedule of newbie rides, I'm hoping one of the first things you teach a new rider is the basic trail courtesies. In additon, I know we all get frustrated when we encounter "uneducated" and inconsiderate riders but maybe if we take the high road and give these people the benefit of the doubt - the first time they do it - and inform them of the proper trail etiquette we will all benefit. (A second offense is up to you, use your creativity for punishment)

Seems like we're always fighting to keep trials open and up against the hikers and equestrians that want to banish us from the trails. I spend a lot of time in the Santa Monicas and whether I'm on my bike, hiking or at the gym, I encounter disrespetful riders, or angry hikers who complain about the few knuckle heads who spoil things for the rest of us.

We are a large and powerful group these days, if each of us takes the time to share the rules with the newbies and include this info in our clinics I think we can go along way to educating the "uninformed".

I don't think we're ever going to win over all the hikers or the equestrians but it's a starting point isn't it?

I know there are many advocacy groups, I just happened to be at CORBA event this weekend. I think it would be a noble gesture if STR and the advocacy groups give a run down of the basic trails rules and etiquette at our events as there are undoubtedly a lot of novices attending the events too.

Some basics from the CORBA site:

http://www.corbamtb.com/Resources/RulesoftheTrail.shtml

Rules of the Trail

1. Ride On Open Trails Only.
2. Leave No Trace. (tread lightly!)
3. Trail Etiquette. Share the Trails!
4. Always Yield Trail to other users.
5. Be prepared and plan Ahead.
6. Take the Opportunity to Give Back to the Trails.
7. Never scare Animals

Thanks everyone for spreading word.

[Burner]

ok, i'll be the first troll.


yield to the uphill rider, if it's not wide enough for both to pass. But everyone should just have the be cool attitude about their flow or the other persons, so don't NOT yield just to be a dickhead.

don't go flying around blind corners, etc... assume there is someone or an unexpected obstacle around every turn. keep your speed in check enough to stop or yield as needed.

[genusmtbkr5]

When you see someone stopped off the trail, ask if they have everything they need or need anything else. It could be you next time.

[mntbiker12]

Good call by you!

I remember when I first started riding, I was terribly unequipped and unprepared as most noobs are. On my many flats or mechanicals, the majority of riders passing by either helped or at the very least, offered.

Ever since I've been paying it forward.

Be kind to noobs.

Originally Posted by genusmtbkr5

When you see someone stopped off the trail, ask if they have everything they need or need anything else. It could be you next time.

[J_Sims]

Always try to pack a little more out than you packed in.... Pick up trash left by others...

[OMR]

Gene,

This is a must do at the beginning of the newbie rides... In fact we could have a little contest to see how many rules riders know. I'm sure even the experienced riders couldn't name them all ...

[Fired Yo Momma]

Rule # 1 As I am coming downhill don't ruin my flow, yield and get out of my way.
Just Playin

[J_Sims]

Originally Posted by mntbiker12

.

Be kind to noobs.

We could start an Adopt a nOOb program

[denmother]

Hey moderators, can we make this thread "Sticky"?????

[DDB@OCR]

Stay to the friggin' right of the trial- one guy went out with us on the poker run and I had to reel his kook butt in after almost t-boning and running someone off the trail, twice! And he's and expierenced rider.

Conga Line's: Designate Leaders and Brooms. Go out in smaller groups and space 'em out. No one likes having to stand in a puddle etc. when 15-20 riders schlep by through a bottle-neck.

Have designated re-group areas and/or times. No one get's left behind.

Trail Riding does not = Racing.

Getta bell and use it.

[genusmtbkr5]

Originally Posted by denmother

Hey moderators, can we make this thread "Sticky"?????

Done already, someone beat me to it. Thanks Nancy.

[Impy]

Yes yes yes. Can't agree more. Might be you with a bleeding head and unconscious by the side of the trail next time!

Originally Posted by genusmtbkr5

When you see someone stopped off the trail, ask if they have everything they need or need anything else. It could be you next time.

[jruiz]

If your eating a powerbar during a break at least offer a piece to your compadres...

[J_Sims]

I do not know how this will keep trails open other than promoting happy people on the trail but when you bought that camel back did you notice that you can insert a bottle of your