Hiya folks. This section is brought to you by the trail care crew - yes, the group of folks that do their best to keep our trails in tip top shape. We will use this page to let you know what we are up to and where we expect to focus our attention next.
Most of you have probably noticed the new bridge on the county trail between trails 2 and 3. For those of you that haven't noticed, we recommend you run (or ride) to the nearest optometrist and get a good set of prescription lenses - or a very good seeing-eye dog!!! This marvel of engineering was built thanks to the skills of Chad, the underwater operating capabilities of Joe and Dustin and the help of the rest of the trail care crew.
And you know what's the coolest thing of the TCC? Joining is really easy. You just have to show up!!! You don't even need tools!!!! We just need people who like to have fun while working with us in keeping things in good shape.
And now, a word from the Head Honcho of the TCC, Russ "Uphill endo" Manuel. Don't pay too much attention to his hill climbing "hot tips" - but listen to him to regarding the trail and how to take good care of it!!!
Please don't skid!!! There are several reasons for this request - I'll start with the one that affects you the most: skidding doesn't help you stop any faster - as a matter of fact it actually makes the stopping distance longer! According to our resident Einstein, when you skid a fine layer of rocks and dirt forms between your wheel and the ground and it acts like a bunch of rollers. Believe it or not, you and that tree you're trying to avoid will become real close friends faster than you think.
Besides, When you skid you have broken two of IMBA's rules of the trail : Leave no trace and Control your bicycle!!!
The leave no trace part is obvious - each time you skid a nasty looking skidmark on the trail. This will, over time, begin to damage the trail's surface and promote water running on the trail instead of over it, which will cause the trail to fill with mudpits - or increase the amount of maintenance required to keep them open.
When you skid, you are loosing your ability to control your bike. You are one step closer to having a real close encounter with whatever you are trying to avoid. Slow down, hone your riding skills and go at it again, Your body, and all other trail users, will thank you for it.
