If there are multiple B lines, I agree, but B lines do exist for a reason, a lot of us, myself included aren't interested in the potential injury. Especially on a public and authorized trail, the trails are there for all of us. Don't insist people risk breaking their bones just because.
I hear you, Jim, but what's in the photo isn't a B line that was made with any authorization from a land manager, and it's in a very high trafficked area with a long history of use by hikers/backpackers and equestrians.
If potential injury is a concern (and it sometimes is for me), can't people get off their bikes and walk? I do.
Once the B line is there, almost no one is going to ignore it and walk over the A line just for procedure. My thoughts, and this is for widely used trails for riders of all abilities, every tech feature should have a B line.
I agree on the B line where there's tech, but one that is purpose-built with land manager input and guidance.
I've seen many groups of riders walk over those exact rocks, with the "B" line there, though it wasn't like it is now.
That "B" line is an erosion issue and what I'm also saying is: mountain bikers have a history of creating new lines (easier ones, sometimes, and other times, more difficult ones), regardless of and/or with minimal thinking of impacts on the land.
All the while, that new "B" line does potentially add conflict with other user groups.
Cheater lines are frustrating, I close them off when I see them. (Not to be confused with purpose built alternate/easy lines - if the builders put them in, great).
I've noticed people shortcut switchbacks or berms (why!?!), And sometimes an easier was around a tight set of trees.
I always stop and block these off, before too many people keep riding it. If you put enough branches/leaves/rocks in the way, the lazy riders go back to the trail.
If there are multiple B lines, I agree, but B lines do exist for a reason, a lot of us, myself included aren't interested in the potential injury. Especially on a public and authorized trail, the trails are there for all of us. Don't insist people risk breaking their bones just because.
I hear you, Jim, but what's in the photo isn't a B line that was made with any authorization from a land manager, and it's in a very high trafficked area with a long history of use by hikers/backpackers and equestrians.
If potential injury is a concern (and it sometimes is for me), can't people get off their bikes and walk? I do.
Once the B line is there, almost no one is going to ignore it and walk over the A line just for procedure. My thoughts, and this is for widely used trails for riders of all abilities, every tech feature should have a B line.
I agree on the B line where there's tech, but one that is purpose-built with land manager input and guidance.
I've seen many groups of riders walk over those exact rocks, with the "B" line there, though it wasn't like it is now.
That "B" line is an erosion issue and what I'm also saying is: mountain bikers have a history of creating new lines (easier ones, sometimes, and other times, more difficult ones), regardless of and/or with minimal thinking of impacts on the land.
All the while, that new "B" line does potentially add conflict with other user groups.
Most riders won't know the history of a trail, we ride for fun and safety.
A lot to unpackage here, but not this time around in this comment box space! Cheers, Jim!
Cheater lines are frustrating, I close them off when I see them. (Not to be confused with purpose built alternate/easy lines - if the builders put them in, great).
I've noticed people shortcut switchbacks or berms (why!?!), And sometimes an easier was around a tight set of trees.
I always stop and block these off, before too many people keep riding it. If you put enough branches/leaves/rocks in the way, the lazy riders go back to the trail.
Me too, Jeff! Block the "wrong" way! Agreed on by-design alternate routes.