Best Electric Mountain Bikes: What to Look For
A research-based eMTB buyer's guide: what Class 1/2/3 means for trail access, which specs matter, and four current bikes worth a look — from a $2,899 hardtail to a flagship trail machine.
Trailhead
A research-based eMTB buyer's guide: what Class 1/2/3 means for trail access, which specs matter, and four current bikes worth a look — from a $2,899 hardtail to a flagship trail machine.
A start-to-finish mountain biking guide: pick the right bike type, dial in fit and gear, learn trail etiquette, find legal trails, and build skills in the right order.
Ride spring dirt without vandalizing it: check land-manager status pages, favor freeze-thaw windows and rockier networks when soils are plastic, float tires sensibly, brake in control not panic skids, and accept that some weekends are hike-only if you respect the trail org’s ask.
A look at the $830 million Interior Department contract that included a 10-question survey, what that money could have funded in Pacific Northwest parks like Olympic and Crater Lake, and how park lovers can push for accountability.
Five ways to find mountain biking trails near you — apps like Trailforks and MTB Project, local bike shops and clubs, social media, state parks and national forests, and scouting on your own — plus what gear to bring.
How to plan, build, and maintain mountain bike trails: getting permissions, designing for drainage and sustainability, features like berms and grade reversals, and ongoing upkeep with community help.
A rundown of mountain bike protective gear—helmets (full-face vs. half-shell), goggles vs. sunglasses, gloves, body armor, footwear, and clothing—with fit pointers and when heavier protection makes sense for downhill versus trail riding.
How to find and join a mountain biking group, prepare for races and group rides, and start your own club or event—from permits and logistics to building an inclusive riding community.
Safety practices for mountain biking in wildlife habitat: researching local animals, packing bear spray and first aid, riding alert on designated trails, handling bear, moose, or snake encounters, and Leave No Trace ethics.
How to get kids started fat biking: choosing the right bike size and tires, cold-weather gear, teaching balance and braking on snow, finding gentle groomed trails, and keeping short rides warm and fun.