Mountain Bikes?
Mountain bike trails, to the enthusiast, will always be the best way to spend any amount of time- from an hour’s family ride on a summers evening, to three days straight of hard riding for the really committed. But to local communities they can be, (and already are in some areas), so much more.
Trails can be used quite simply and tactically to increase visitor numbers to a location, but as part of a larger strategic plan they can be the catalyst for a community and rural regeneration that has long term effects and benefits.
Firstly, it’s important to note the positive demographic indicators that support the construction of mountain bike trails. Mountain bikers used to be split into two groups.
•Leisure cyclists who used mountain bikes to ride on old railway lines/ towpath tracks. I.e. Off-road, but not technically challenging.
•Hard core mountain bikers, cycling generally longer, more challenging rides, route finding their way with maps.
There is now however, a rapidly growing third group of riders who are seeking out way marked trails. They are proving popular because:
•Map reading skills aren’t necessary.
•The new breed of full suspension bikes means that attractively promoted extreme riding is more easily achieved by the everyday rider. And he is looking for more easily accessed locations, offering an instant fix.
•They make technical riding more instantly available.
•The trails offer a more controlled environment in which to hone skills.
•They offer a range of technical challenges- routes are graded and riders can select a ride dependent on their skill level, or the length of time they want to be riding.
•It’s more time-efficient.
•An increasing demand for ‘single track’ style riding
Location isn’t proving to be a problem, as research reveals that riders are prepared to travel in order to ride good trails. Indeed, relatively remote locations can benefit further by providing enough trail network for more than one day’s riding. This encourages overnight stays, promoting the development of accommodation, and bringing money into local businesses.
Some locations may even lend themselves to the development of a number of differing styles of trail, broadening the number of likely visitors. For example:
•Easy forest track family trails
•Cross country
•Long distance- enduro style
•Specialist downhill
•BMX track
Research also shows that mountain bikers are a social bunch, and the provision of simple mountain-bike friendly, café facilities further encourages visits. The most successful centres also incorporate a basic spare/ repairs service and bike wash facility. All further revenue drivers.
In summary, mountain bike trails can bring both economic, and social benefits.
•Increasing visitor numbers.
•Broadening leisure use of forests.
•Encouraging the development of local businesses.
•Increasing local revenue.
Direct revenue will be derived from:
•Café/ visitor centre
•Car parking
•Bike wash
Secondary revenues will follow in the form of:
•Accommodation
•Local retail
•Services- repairs/ guiding/ bike hire where appropriate
•Providing employment and training opportunities.
•Engaging local communities.
•Improving the local environment.
