Nothing bugs me more than to see litter on the trail. Growing up camping my whole life my family always taught us....." you always leave it better than you found it. "
Yeah, I hate people who trash. They just think "uh 1 piece of trash won't make a difference" but if everyone were to think like that then everything would be covered in trash.
Agree totally! I never littered as a kid and it pains me to see how totally ignorant and inconsiderate [we] have become. We need to bring back the Crying Indian, Iron Eyes Cody, from 4/22/1971!
Litter ANYWHERE really bugs me, but when I see a rider do it I simply have to say something. Unbelievably, I had a rider actually say to me once (after I asked them to pick up an empty gel satchet which they had tossed into the bushes) 'dude,chill,they have guys maintaining the trails here,they will pick it up!' And then rode away from me! Great video as always. Seems a shame that a lot of people don't want to play nice. We all just want to have fun and enjoy the outdoors. Is a little politeness and a few manners really that hard...
I just wanted to second the point about yielding to hikers/walkers etc... as a PR effort. Certainly this varies from place to place but where I live and ride the trails are almost all multi-use. And encountering hikers is common. Being friendly and polite to these people is the best way to make sure that nobody starts efforts to ban or limit bike access to trails. I make it a point to slow down or stop, exchange a few cheerful words, pet their dog, etc. I want to try to make sure that MTBers are seen as non-threatening, valid users of local trails.
I find is very easy to wear earbuds and clearly hear everything on the trail. Where most fail is volume control. It needs to be at background music volume not movie montage volume
Thanks for this! So many riders (even experienced) think downhillers always have right of way. Obviously some bike parks have designated up climbs and downhills but those are well marked. One rule people forget to check before hand is some trail areas don't allow off leash dogs.
As a hiker and biker I get to see both sides. I always try to give room for bikers when I'm hiking, and clear loose rocks off the path. Biking I try to be super respectful to hikers, getting off the bike and let them pass if I dont see them making an effort to move to the side. I always try to be really careful and friendly around children walking as a guy on a bike can be intimidating. Having a bell on bike helps with letting hikers know you are coming up on them without having to yell. Great video!
Great tips. Thanks for sharing. On the two way trails, in addition to covering the brakes, I'd also recommend not overriding the visibility. If a rider is coming the other way around a narrow blind turn (thick brush) you need to be able to stop in time even if they are not following etiquette. I will also ring a bell or whistle to give earlier warning. Whistling seems to be more effective than the bell for some reason. Even if the trail appears empty, trying to break a Strava segment record when there are blind turns on two way trails is still not advisable. There might be someone doing the same thing coming the other way and you might find each other on that turn.
Thank you Clint!!! This video NEEDED to be posted!!! There are so many things that MTB riders "don't" do that require responsibility. The #1 issue that pisses me off is the jerks who don't stop/pull-over to let the riders that are going up hill keep going. The #2 thing is the "PASSHOLES" like you said that don't "call-out" before before passing you. This can scare the crap out of a rider that they are passing throwing them off their line! The #3 issue is the 'other' trash left behind like tubes, Co2 cartridges, broken chain links and broken bike parts and... the 4th issue is: riders with dogs (actually anyone with dogs) NOT on leashes or dog shit NOT being cleaned up!! Thank you again Clint!
EARTHQUAKE MA'GOON some places are designated off leash and completely legal to ride with your dog or walk with your dog off leash maybe be aware of those areas and expect it
Saw a guy this summer riding in DuPont Forest with no shirt, no helmet and carrying a boom box. Everyone was so shocked all we could do is give him a big thumbs up!
Thanks for this! So many riders (even experienced) think downhillers always have right of way. Obviously some bike parks have designated up climbs and downhills but those are well marked.
Thanks Clint - simple thoughts but unfortunately difficult for many to practice. Wishing you and your family a really great 2019. God Bless bro from Scotland.
when it comes to the wet trail one I would add 1 reason to when it's OK if you live in an area where it's often raining and the trails are almost always covered in water I live in Sweden and unless we are having a heatwave I won't be able to ride dry trails at all.
Great work as always. Happy to have you around. By the way, off the subject, I just bought the Giant Trance 1,5, the one you son has. Very happy with the choice and with that said, you should take the credit because of the good work analyzing. Thanks a lot an Happy New Year!😉
Much as you points for your international outlook on which side different nations drive on .. much of the world has all weather trails ... who yields depends where you are riding... Loving the comments about being in control... very few people are going to be in control on a DH track unless they have sufficient speed... and people shouldn’t really be riding UP a one way feeling entitled.. then shouting at the people who are riding in the correct direction. The same people usually create another hazard on the way down when they stop (or try to stop) before a gap jump or drop off... and create erosion and damage when they bypass something.
Great video! I would just comment that yielding depends on the section of trail many times and the climber should be just as mindful of descenders (if not more so) as they approach a steep section. When it comes to safety, it is much more difficult and dangerous to slow down suddenly on a decent than it is while climbing. That said, both should give a courteous shout and look ahead when approaching steep sections.
I switched from earbuds completely to a portable bluetooth mini speaker (such as this one -bose www.bose.com/en_us/products/speakers/portable_speakers/soundlink-micro.html#v=soundlink_micro_black) it comes with a strap that can be easily attached to a backpack or handlebar, of course, this is not ideal during racing. Any other time, I always have a small backpack and the little speaker goes a long way providing a great sound/rhythm and yet ability to hear things around. It also helps others to hear you coming up... Also blinking front and rear lights even during the daytime helps - a little extra weight, but it certainly provides an additional safety measure - I use knog lights - such as the power trail model. In any case, these are some points that can help to be safe and considering to others.
The lady and I were doing the whole Wilderness Park loop in Thonotosassa on Sunday, I've found generally the easier the trail, the worse the etiquette. There were groups stopped in the middle of tight trails, people looking down with headphones on, and a bunch of soft spots were torn up. Not to say everyone was like that or it was intentional I think a lot of it is just nobody has been told! I never run into that at Alafia, Balm, Loyce Harpe or Santos, but it seems likes Starkey & Wilderness Park I do.
We use, Track, on your left. The one day riding with head phones on, (it was snake season at Giba, local bike park) I came across a Mozambique spiting cobra. It was flat and hissing at me, I didn’t notice as I was looking right at the monkeys playing in the trees. When I turned and looked I must of being about 2 meters from it. It didn’t strike at me but it was certainly upset. I just slowly backed off and let it leave the trail. It was the last time I rode with music
I ride twisty, wooded Florida trails too, I use a bell. Keeps me from having to ride around hollering at people. And it does get a smile from hikers. Just hit it far enough away to not startle anyone. Sadly, so many people use earbuds it's wasted on them DO NOT ride with a music blaster thing on your handlebars. That's even worse than the earbud guys.
Proper video that covers most everything. The only addition I would suggest, is, some people should just say "No" to lycra!!!! You know who you are folks!!!!! And yes, I resemble that remark!!! Lol!!!
I'd think it would be a no brainer for bike companies and shops to include a rider etiquette pamphlet with a mountain bike purchase. That would make sense though.
Yes yes yes! I see so many riders refuse to stop and pick up debris on the trail. I think people should also leave their Bluetooth loudspeaker at home, nothing irritates me more than some idiots ruining a great day out on the trail with their shitty ass music. Great video, thanks for spreading the word. 👍
I live in NWA Arkansas where biking is extremely common; every trail has a biking tool/ maintenance station. I walk my dog on the more wooden trails sometimes and I always keep an eye out for riders. As soon as I see one I get off the trail and stand to the side. I feel bad when a biker has to stop or slow down. Is that the best thing to do, just stand off the trail?
All good stuff,but when I pass someone after they move over ,I usually say Thanks. Or if I'm stopped and someone asks if I need anything,I usually say "no" but thanks.
Clint? should I buy Giant trance 2 (2019)? 27.5 or wait extra month and get the Santa Cruz Bronson Aluminum 2019? I'm getting a full sus soon and I don't know what to buy
Either one are going to be great bikes. I would make the decision based on the relationship you have with your local shop. If they carry both then it comes down to price point.
That's a great list! I always do these things, btw! I never realized that riders going uphill have the right of way - makes sense! My big annoyance is inconsiderate, negligent riders that cut other riders off. I've had some close calls because I regularly ride multi-directional trails. Do you have any suggestions for this issue? I've tried a horn, but the one I had sucks and fell apart. So if I'm riding near a blind area, I usually yell: " Coming through", or "Coming up", or " Coming down". What do you do when you're riding in a blind corner?
Hey Clint personally I would be confused by someone on a bike pointing to where he or she wanted ME to go as opposed to their intention to head in that direction i.e signalling as similar to road riders. If I came up on a rider pointing in a direction I’m going to immediately assume their moving in that direction unless I’ve done something obviously wrong like ride on the wrong side in which the finger waving would be gesture to reprimand poor behaviour
I totally agree with the ascending v descending, but I think both parties need to pay attention and be prepared to stop. I've come up on people climbing and they've already pulled off the side, and I've seen where people descending have trouble stopping in time. Gotta recognize the proper etiquette but still be defensive.
Was on a switch back once and had two people coming up from opposite direction, and I moved out of the way but instead of stopping I cut through a none trail to the next part of the switch back. And he yelled at me for doing so but didnt explain. Would you have an answer?
Whenever people take shortcuts it can cause more erosion. Trails are designed to minimize erosion, and taking shortcuts can diminish that. Also, if other people see somewhat of another line they will start taking it too. Hope this helps.
Really good video and everything right on - except for wearing headphones - it’s kind of OK if you just put in one and keep the volume low on trails with good visibility, but on technical stuff with tight corners and switchbacks just don’t do it!!! Be smart. Be safe.
Hey Clint, thanks for the video. On some of my city and greenway rides I encounter folks on foot that walk both sides of the trail. What is your opinion on bike bells?
@@ClintGibbs I once came across a lady doing sit ups WITH her headphone on a trail lying in the middle of the trail....Is it appropriate etiquette to swear at such a person? Another pet peeve of mine is people with their dogs off a leash who act surprised when the dog suddenly jumps into the path of a moving bicycle. Can I swear now?
I rode yesterday on a trail where the lower part had lots of hikers. I use a Timber! bell that jangles while I ride (but I can also turn it off) and people usually hear me coming to let me pass. I get many comments such as "thanks for the bell". I also say "thank you" to anybody who makes an effort to move. I actually have three bells on my bike: the Timber jangler, a manual dinger and a shark squeaky toy (made for bikes) which always makes people smile!
It's like he said, some places the trails can handle that. In places like North Carolina, where the soil is a red clay when it gets wet it becomes super sticky, so riding on it will leave massive ruts. Here in Ohio there are some trails you can ride in the rain, and others you can't. Depends on the soil and the drainage.
@@dougiegraham662 You would never get a ride at Derby in Tasmania if you wait for dry trails! But it's like the PNW so the trails can handle most of it.
@@stevenpeyton7476 Even more so if its a steep section, some rides may even have to walk and would be much more easy to see riders coming and to be able to get out of their way, not to mention going uphill you're more likely to want a break or pit stop so why not yield to the faster rider who no doubt is having more fun bombing down the hill and one last scenario who would have a better chance of breaking to avoid an accident a downhill rider or an uphill one?
@@coreybikesIt's not a better option. Most trail riders are clipped in. Out here in the west coast, I'm normally doing 2000+ vertical feet of climbing with 25+% grades. And you're assuming climbers will want to stop to take a break on steep sections. Many don't.
I haven't used one in a while. A lot of people on our trails don't but it's no big deal. But yes, there are some trails what makes a lot of sense. Probably should have mentioned that one.
Very helpful tips. I’m kinda new at this whole MTB deal, and I’m learning a great deal here on RUclips. By the way, what kind of phone holder is that on your bars?
Yes...don't make cut paths on the trails because you're to lazy to take the turn. Others will follow who are unfamiliar with the trails causing the single track trails to open up causing erosion. Stay on the trail, that is why the trail builders built it that way.
Great video Clint! Another is don't bike with your dog...on or off a leash. More common is discourteous dog owners walking the trails with their dogs running free. Dangerous on many levels.
I don't think it's ever safe to wear ear buds or phones "EVER" Safely first, for the good of everyone Be safe out there people! God loves ya And remember, keep cycling! Wm. 🎶😎😇
I always say. On your left. Or right. And. Two back. Plus coming up a hill the one coming down waits. Plus. When you come up on horses. Please do not sqeal the breaks. And yes we all are fellow bikers. Always ask if they need help when using headphones can be good or bad. Depends on ride. Because headphones 86 people behind you or someone sees a tree before you. U might miss it.
Good tip on multi-use trails. When dealing with horses, always stop, even on double track. Bikes can easily startle horses. Something I learned from my wife who rides.
No headphones on the trail. Bose has a speaker system that goes around the neck so ears are not plugged up. Some people really get into their music and zone out so maybe not the safest. I know your an experienced rider but many are not.
Yielding really depends where you are from and what kind of terrain you ride at. MTB Trails from where I'm from are MOSTLY PRIVATE cemented broken paths built by fruit farmers to transport their produce from their farms to the local market. Broken cemented paths are frequently filled with moss and while descending any hard abrupt braking will crash the farmer under load due to tire washout. This is even more true for mtb riders as we often are not as heavy as farmers on motorcycles. In this case, considering the land is both private and dangerous when descending, hikers should yield to farmers and riders during very steep and mossy sections. Hikers from where I'm from are unfortunately usually very snobbish and thick in the head. They litter, steal fruits and does not yield to riders. This kind of mentality is very often from those "weekend/holiday" hikers who are frequently unfit and only there out of obligation.
what i see more and more is people making shortcuts on trails ruining the fun bits by creating a new, straighter trail in the process. like cutting trough sharp/hairpin corners, cutting corners with a tiny puddle, riding around ''technical' stuff. Basically avoiding everything considered mountainbiking. I blame it on roadies riding mtb in the winter months and strava times
Great video 👍. Only one we don't do in UK is the not riding when there is standing water. If we did that we'd only be riding about five days a year on natural trails 😂. Here the advise is, to ride through the standing water so the trail doesn't get made wider with people riding around it. Usually here if there is water it's because the ground underneath is hard. Here in Scotland there used to be a lot of conflict with walkers but they were mostly of the older generation , now when coming down a hill they will quite often get out your way and even cheer you on , on tech bits. We're always prepared to stop though. Unfortunately they also do this on uphills and will even open a gate for you just when you want to stop for a rest 😂😂😂.
You ride behind someone on a fast descent for 5 minutes and nicely ask to get by. They ignore you or mumble something rude for 3 of the 5 minutes and he is half your speed. Advice?
I just look for a clearing and then say I’m coming around on your left or on your right. If all else fails just stop and let them go for a while and then get going again so it doesn’t mess up your descent.
@@ClintGibbs I did not take the "high road". I told him he forced me to do something dangerous after about 5 minutes of being polite and having good manners about it. Then he cursed at me in high Yankee (Woodstock GA here) and I let him have a verbal barrage that could only come from the son of an English teacher.
paul norris I’m a polite and patient person but if that happened to me I would definitely take the time to sternly educate this person on proper mountain bike trail etiquette. Unfortunately there are a lot of selfish and bitter people out there.
@@ClintGibbs Lunch ride at Blankets Creek trail system. Its 90% super tight single track and there arent too many opportunities to keep your speed above 15 MPH for anything longer than 30 seconds. This was appx 2 miles of 12 - 15 MPH speeds and he was in the 6 MPH range. We went through several areas where I called out to pass on a side and he BLOCKED me. There is a massive sign at the trailhead that says to yield to faster riders. I do it all the time. By his actions, I think he went out there wanting to create a problem.
paul norris Dawson and I will be riding Blankets Creek Monday around lunchtime (currently in Ellijay Riding). If I see him I’ll take care of it and let him know to not mess with Paul 😉
Good post. Here in Tallahassee some joggers use the bike trails, especially Cadillac Trail . Usual offenders are female, scantily clad, with headphones playing music so LOUD these females do not hear my bell(first) or then my screaming to GTFOMWAY! This is crazy. You need situational awareness females!!
Don't forget to yield to children that are walking or especially on a small bike . Small children don't always have full control of their bikes . i usually stop and let them pass .
Sorry but I'm on the other side when it comes to yielding. I'm going to get a shirt that says "I yield to downhill" Would you rather have a pause/break when your going up or down?
lawor8 - I came across probably the largest diamondback that I’ve ever seen at balm boyette yesterday. It was coiled up in the middle of the trail. I was descending when I saw it. I had to hit the brakes hard and wreck off of the trail. I ended up a few feet from it and only had my front wheel between me and it. Took like a minute to back away because I was caught up in vines. It never struck obviously. I consider my self lucky. I’ve never been so nervous in my life.
Lizard King - yeah. That is another really bad one. We have bear here in Florida, but probably not like they do there. We thought we heard a bear once when taking a break at a local trail and we moved away from the sound pretty quickly. The major problem I had in this snake situation was that I was moving fast and although I saw him ahead of time I had nowhere to go but into the trees. I wish I could have went further away from him
Being the decending person and not moving over to let the person climbing the huge massive heart pounding climb, go by, Is the same as opening the door at the grocery store and making the person who's trying to come in, wait to the side, outside, while your fat ass and 3 kids just plow your way out to get into your ragged out '98 Ford Expedition on fake 20" spinners. What bugs me most isn't that I had to wait to get through the door and into the store. It's that it is currently -42* F out right now, and my hand just about froze to the door handle while I was being courteous and holding the door open...
you should throw "ebike" in the title. this subject is a huge issue with ebikers. we could get along a lot better with there was a understanding. of course you will have to add a bit about trail access for ebikes
![I.N "HALLUCINATION" | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/n5B5q1Hwt_U/mqdefault.jpg)
Nothing bugs me more than to see litter on the trail. Growing up camping my whole life my family always taught us....." you always leave it better than you found it. "
Yeah, I hate people who trash. They just think "uh 1 piece of trash won't make a difference" but if everyone were to think like that then everything would be covered in trash.
Still see inner tubes thrown to the side of the trails, it’s so easy just to fix it. Lazy ness with some people
Agree totally! I never littered as a kid and it pains me to see how totally ignorant and inconsiderate [we] have become. We need to bring back the Crying Indian, Iron Eyes Cody, from 4/22/1971!
innit, pisses me right off.
Litter ANYWHERE really bugs me, but when I see a rider do it I simply have to say something.
Unbelievably, I had a rider actually say to me once (after I asked them to pick up an empty gel satchet which they had tossed into the bushes) 'dude,chill,they have guys maintaining the trails here,they will pick it up!' And then rode away from me!
Great video as always. Seems a shame that a lot of people don't want to play nice. We all just want to have fun and enjoy the outdoors. Is a little politeness and a few manners really that hard...
That guy is an idiot.
I just wanted to second the point about yielding to hikers/walkers etc... as a PR effort. Certainly this varies from place to place but where I live and ride the trails are almost all multi-use. And encountering hikers is common. Being friendly and polite to these people is the best way to make sure that nobody starts efforts to ban or limit bike access to trails. I make it a point to slow down or stop, exchange a few cheerful words, pet their dog, etc. I want to try to make sure that MTBers are seen as non-threatening, valid users of local trails.
Very true and well said
I would never wear any earbuds while cycling. It's important to have all my senses open to the environment for my safety. A Healthy 2019 to all!
Exactly, never ever!!
I stopped wearing earbuds after I had a close encounter with a bear while riding at South Lake Tahoe. 😱
I find is very easy to wear earbuds and clearly hear everything on the trail. Where most fail is volume control. It needs to be at background music volume not movie montage volume
I listen to podcasts, rarely music, I am always aware of surrounding sounds
On big climbs there great, especially on fire roads, but even then I only use a earbud and on low volume
Thanks for this! So many riders (even experienced) think downhillers always have right of way. Obviously some bike parks have designated up climbs and downhills but those are well marked. One rule people forget to check before hand is some trail areas don't allow off leash dogs.
As a hiker and biker I get to see both sides. I always try to give room for bikers when I'm hiking, and clear loose rocks off the path. Biking I try to be super respectful to hikers, getting off the bike and let them pass if I dont see them making an effort to move to the side. I always try to be really careful and friendly around children walking as a guy on a bike can be intimidating. Having a bell on bike helps with letting hikers know you are coming up on them without having to yell. Great video!
Fantastic video! Living in Houston and riding park trails I am the nerd with the bell getting the attention of hikers
Bells are good too. I probably should have mentioned that.
I thought I was the only nerd in Houston (Sugar Land) riding with a bell.
Love the tips. I may not be the best mtn bike rider at 66 but I do follow all your tips from day one on the trails. Thank you.
Great tips. Thanks for sharing. On the two way trails, in addition to covering the brakes, I'd also recommend not overriding the visibility. If a rider is coming the other way around a narrow blind turn (thick brush) you need to be able to stop in time even if they are not following etiquette. I will also ring a bell or whistle to give earlier warning. Whistling seems to be more effective than the bell for some reason. Even if the trail appears empty, trying to break a Strava segment record when there are blind turns on two way trails is still not advisable. There might be someone doing the same thing coming the other way and you might find each other on that turn.
Thank you Clint!!! This video NEEDED to be posted!!! There are so many things that MTB riders "don't" do that require responsibility. The #1 issue that pisses me off is the jerks who don't stop/pull-over to let the riders that are going up hill keep going. The #2 thing is the "PASSHOLES" like you said that don't "call-out" before before passing you. This can scare the crap out of a rider that they are passing throwing them off their line! The #3 issue is the 'other' trash left behind like tubes, Co2 cartridges, broken chain links and broken bike parts and... the 4th issue is: riders with dogs (actually anyone with dogs) NOT on leashes or dog shit NOT being cleaned up!! Thank you again Clint!
EARTHQUAKE MA'GOON some places are designated off leash and completely legal to ride with your dog or walk with your dog off leash maybe be aware of those areas and expect it
Saw a guy this summer riding in DuPont Forest with no shirt, no helmet and carrying a boom box. Everyone was so shocked all we could do is give him a big thumbs up!
I personally yield to people who are descending because I don't want to break their flow. Plus it gives me a chance to take a breather.
Thanks for this! So many riders (even experienced) think downhillers always have right of way. Obviously some bike parks have designated up climbs and downhills but those are well marked.
Awesome video! I think you covered about everything, but I would include the infamous "cutting switchbacks".
Thanks Clint - simple thoughts but unfortunately difficult for many to practice. Wishing you and your family a really great 2019. God Bless bro from Scotland.
As usual excellent and honest advice for everyone... good stuff for all to adhere too .. awesome channel keep up the great content !!
I was waiting for someone to put a video like this out. Thank you.
when it comes to the wet trail one I would add 1 reason to when it's OK
if you live in an area where it's often raining and the trails are almost always covered in water
I live in Sweden and unless we are having a heatwave I won't be able to ride dry trails at all.
Great tips Clint. I hope everyone that bikes watches this video. Keep up the great work. 👍
Great work as always. Happy to have you around. By the way, off the subject, I just bought the Giant Trance 1,5, the one you son has. Very happy with the choice and with that said, you should take the credit because of the good work analyzing. Thanks a lot an Happy New Year!😉
Much as you points for your international outlook on which side different nations drive on .. much of the world has all weather trails ... who yields depends where you are riding... Loving the comments about being in control... very few people are going to be in control on a DH track unless they have sufficient speed... and people shouldn’t really be riding UP a one way feeling entitled.. then shouting at the people who are riding in the correct direction. The same people usually create another hazard on the way down when they stop (or try to stop) before a gap jump or drop off... and create erosion and damage when they bypass something.
Great video!
I would just comment that yielding depends on the section of trail many times and the climber should be just as mindful of descenders (if not more so) as they approach a steep section. When it comes to safety, it is much more difficult and dangerous to slow down suddenly on a decent than it is while climbing. That said, both should give a courteous shout and look ahead when approaching steep sections.
I switched from earbuds completely to a portable bluetooth mini speaker (such as this one -bose www.bose.com/en_us/products/speakers/portable_speakers/soundlink-micro.html#v=soundlink_micro_black) it comes with a strap that can be easily attached to a backpack or handlebar, of course, this is not ideal during racing. Any other time, I always have a small backpack and the little speaker goes a long way providing a great sound/rhythm and yet ability to hear things around. It also helps others to hear you coming up... Also blinking front and rear lights even during the daytime helps - a little extra weight, but it certainly provides an additional safety measure - I use knog lights - such as the power trail model. In any case, these are some points that can help to be safe and considering to others.
good to hear tinker is still on the bike.
The lady and I were doing the whole Wilderness Park loop in Thonotosassa on Sunday, I've found generally the easier the trail, the worse the etiquette. There were groups stopped in the middle of tight trails, people looking down with headphones on, and a bunch of soft spots were torn up. Not to say everyone was like that or it was intentional I think a lot of it is just nobody has been told! I never run into that at Alafia, Balm, Loyce Harpe or Santos, but it seems likes Starkey & Wilderness Park I do.
Great tips for us newbies... Thanks for the time you took to do the video.
We use, Track, on your left. The one day riding with head phones on, (it was snake season at Giba, local bike park) I came across a Mozambique spiting cobra. It was flat and hissing at me, I didn’t notice as I was looking right at the monkeys playing in the trees. When I turned and looked I must of being about 2 meters from it. It didn’t strike at me but it was certainly upset. I just slowly backed off and let it leave the trail. It was the last time I rode with music
Thanks!!these newer riders really need to learn these things!
Good stuff Clint.
Great video. Happy New Years Clint.
Entering blind corners or descents on bi-directional trails we yell “Rider”. Seems to be effective and a bell would also be an option.
great reminder, that we are responsible , nature loving human being...
Sense and sensibilities...
Rode with Tinker , epic. Hi Clint !
This should be mandatory viewing tbh.
Excellent vid Clint, Most riders have no idea that the climber has the right of way & they don't get it when trying to explain why. Safe riding!
Hikers, too.
how respectful, good advice buddy.
Bells? Are bells a courtesy or are they part of the mtb etiquette? I am curious to hear what everyone thinks?
I ride twisty, wooded Florida trails too, I use a bell. Keeps me from having to ride around hollering at people. And it does get a smile from hikers. Just hit it far enough away to not startle anyone.
Sadly, so many people use earbuds it's wasted on them
DO NOT ride with a music blaster thing on your handlebars. That's even worse than the earbud guys.
I have my own trails so i can do basicly whatever i want on them for i am the care taker.
eneyhow great vid.
Proper video that covers most everything. The only addition I would suggest, is, some people should just say "No" to lycra!!!! You know who you are folks!!!!! And yes, I resemble that remark!!! Lol!!!
Or just keep your eyes to yourself.
LOL @5:03 that was great. Words of wisdom! Thanks Clint!
Bells are great on trails because they make a distinct noise that is not found in nature, which people are more apt to hear and respond.
Thank you so much for the information!
I'd think it would be a no brainer for bike companies and shops to include a rider etiquette pamphlet with a mountain bike purchase. That would make sense though.
Yes yes yes! I see so many riders refuse to stop and pick up debris on the trail. I think people should also leave their Bluetooth loudspeaker at home, nothing irritates me more than some idiots ruining a great day out on the trail with their shitty ass music. Great video, thanks for spreading the word. 👍
Great video and tips! 😁
I live in NWA Arkansas where biking is extremely common; every trail has a biking tool/ maintenance station. I walk my dog on the more wooden trails sometimes and I always keep an eye out for riders. As soon as I see one I get off the trail and stand to the side. I feel bad when a biker has to stop or slow down. Is that the best thing to do, just stand off the trail?
On most trails bikers yield to hikers but I do the same thing you do because I know what it's like on a bike.
All good stuff,but when I pass someone after they move over ,I usually say Thanks. Or if I'm stopped and someone asks if I need anything,I usually say "no" but thanks.
6:10 What does “handle water better” mean?
As in when they get a lot of rain, it drains well in the soil does not get to where your tires just leave ruts. It turns more into loam.
@@ClintGibbs I see, thanks for the info. Not much rain here in SoCal where I'm at, so I'm a bit unfamiliar with muddier conditions lol
Can you do a review on a E-Bike Mountain bike? would like to know your opinion
Clint? should I buy Giant trance 2 (2019)? 27.5 or wait extra month and get the Santa Cruz Bronson Aluminum 2019? I'm getting a full sus soon and I don't know what to buy
Either one are going to be great bikes. I would make the decision based on the relationship you have with your local shop. If they carry both then it comes down to price point.
What kind of riding do you do?
That's a great list! I always do these things, btw! I never realized that riders going uphill have the right of way - makes sense!
My big annoyance is inconsiderate, negligent riders that cut other riders off. I've had some close calls because I regularly ride multi-directional trails. Do you have any suggestions for this issue? I've tried a horn, but the one I had sucks and fell apart. So if I'm riding near a blind area, I usually yell: " Coming through", or "Coming up", or " Coming down". What do you do when you're riding in a blind corner?
I'll be posting a follow-up video in the next 12 hours. Should help.
yes, everybody needs to know this
Great job!
Hey Clint personally I would be confused by someone on a bike pointing to where he or she wanted ME to go as opposed to their intention to head in that direction i.e signalling as similar to road riders. If I came up on a rider pointing in a direction I’m going to immediately assume their moving in that direction unless I’ve done something obviously wrong like ride on the wrong side in which the finger waving would be gesture to reprimand poor behaviour
I totally agree with the ascending v descending, but I think both parties need to pay attention and be prepared to stop. I've come up on people climbing and they've already pulled off the side, and I've seen where people descending have trouble stopping in time. Gotta recognize the proper etiquette but still be defensive.
Was on a switch back once and had two people coming up from opposite direction, and I moved out of the way but instead of stopping I cut through a none trail to the next part of the switch back. And he yelled at me for doing so but didnt explain. Would you have an answer?
Whenever people take shortcuts it can cause more erosion. Trails are designed to minimize erosion, and taking shortcuts can diminish that. Also, if other people see somewhat of another line they will start taking it too. Hope this helps.
Really good video and everything right on - except for wearing headphones - it’s kind of OK if you just put in one and keep the volume low on trails with good visibility, but on technical stuff with tight corners and switchbacks just don’t do it!!! Be smart. Be safe.
Happy New Year :)
Hey Clint, thanks for the video. On some of my city and greenway rides I encounter folks on foot that walk both sides of the trail. What is your opinion on bike bells?
Bike bells are good. I haven't used one in a while but I probably should.
@@ClintGibbs I once came across a lady doing sit ups WITH her headphone on a trail lying in the middle of the trail....Is it appropriate etiquette to swear at such a person? Another pet peeve of mine is people with their dogs off a leash who act surprised when the dog suddenly jumps into the path of a moving bicycle. Can I swear now?
@@lawor8 in that situation, just yell out "lay down, I'm going to try to bunnyhop over you"
I rode yesterday on a trail where the lower part had lots of hikers. I use a Timber! bell that jangles while I ride (but I can also turn it off) and people usually hear me coming to let me pass. I get many comments such as "thanks for the bell". I also say "thank you" to anybody who makes an effort to move.
I actually have three bells on my bike: the Timber jangler, a manual dinger and a shark squeaky toy (made for bikes) which always makes people smile!
I use Timber Bell.
Thanks! May 2019 be a great year!
Thank you!!
Let the ear buds at home all the time. Enjoy the outdoors. They are a distraction whether racing or just riding.
Thank you and I'm sure these fragile ecosystems thank you as well!
How do you deal with jerks who intentionally throw rocks on the trails?
We stone them. But seriously, we don't really have that problem on our trails.
In Finland if you wouldn't ride when it's wet, you'd never ride.
It's like he said, some places the trails can handle that. In places like North Carolina, where the soil is a red clay when it gets wet it becomes super sticky, so riding on it will leave massive ruts. Here in Ohio there are some trails you can ride in the rain, and others you can't. Depends on the soil and the drainage.
@@abadatha Yeah, but that's the case here. I know things are way different in America.
Scotland checking in!
Yeah I laughed when he said that.
@@dougiegraham662 You would never get a ride at Derby in Tasmania if you wait for dry trails! But it's like the PNW so the trails can handle most of it.
Helsinki region is full of jerks who find it necessary to cut lines across moss forests, swamps until its pure mud.
i always yield to the downhill rider..I don't want to wreck someones downhill..
I agree, its a far better option for the slower uphill rider to yield to the faster downhill rider.
@@coreybikes Not if you're going up a steep section -- like Clint said in the video, it's a LOT harder to get going again when ascending.
@@stevenpeyton7476 Even more so if its a steep section, some rides may even have to walk and would be much more easy to see riders coming and to be able to get out of their way, not to mention going uphill you're more likely to want a break or pit stop so why not yield to the faster rider who no doubt is having more fun bombing down the hill and one last scenario who would have a better chance of breaking to avoid an accident a downhill rider or an uphill one?
@@coreybikes OK, you got me -- still, I hate having to restart on a steep ascent....lol
@@coreybikesIt's not a better option. Most trail riders are clipped in. Out here in the west coast, I'm normally doing 2000+ vertical feet of climbing with 25+% grades. And you're assuming climbers will want to stop to take a break on steep sections. Many don't.
When I am riding I always cover my breaks .
what about using a bell??
I haven't used one in a while. A lot of people on our trails don't but it's no big deal. But yes, there are some trails what makes a lot of sense. Probably should have mentioned that one.
Very helpful tips. I’m kinda new at this whole MTB deal, and I’m learning a great deal here on RUclips. By the way, what kind of phone holder is that on your bars?
I have Garmin Edge 520 on the handlebars and also (on the Trance) a Giant NeosTrack GPS computer.
In the UK, if we didnt ride when the trails were wet we’d only go riding two weekends a year :P
Yes...don't make cut paths on the trails because you're to lazy to take the turn. Others will follow who are unfamiliar with the trails causing the single track trails to open up causing erosion. Stay on the trail, that is why the trail builders built it that way.
What about hikers coming down a steep pitch, and bikers going up? Who yields to who?
Great video Clint! Another is don't bike with your dog...on or off a leash. More common is discourteous dog owners walking the trails with their dogs running free. Dangerous on many levels.
Never crop dust as lead rider on a group ride. Nothing worse than a mouthful of air biscuit when oxygen inhalation is crucial.
I don't think it's ever safe to wear ear buds or phones "EVER" Safely first, for the good of everyone Be safe out there people! God loves ya And remember, keep cycling! Wm. 🎶😎😇
You still go to santos?
Yeah, probably about once a month
Excellent lessons here. Will have the kids see this. Kids...... twenty somethings
I always say. On your left. Or right. And. Two back. Plus coming up a hill the one coming down waits. Plus. When you come up on horses. Please do not sqeal the breaks. And yes we all are fellow bikers. Always ask if they need help when using headphones can be good or bad. Depends on ride. Because headphones 86 people behind you or someone sees a tree before you. U might miss it.
Good tip on multi-use trails. When dealing with horses, always stop, even on double track. Bikes can easily startle horses. Something I learned from my wife who rides.
Headphones are illegal in my local racing league, I had a teammate DQed because of it, he got first place but lost it to it
How about blue tooth speakers.,playing loud music...🤙🤘
Dawson has a future doing public service videos lol ! Good stuff guys 👍
We had fun making this video
Say hello or just acknowledge other users with with a raised hand whatever (applies on road too). No need to be antisocial!
No headphones on the trail. Bose has a speaker system that goes around the neck so ears are not plugged up. Some people really get into their music and zone out so maybe not the safest. I know your an experienced rider but many are not.
If you throw any items on the ground in triathlon it's considered abandonment and results in a time penalty.
Yielding really depends where you are from and what kind of terrain you ride at.
MTB Trails from where I'm from are MOSTLY PRIVATE cemented broken paths built by fruit farmers to transport their produce from their farms to the local market.
Broken cemented paths are frequently filled with moss and while descending any hard abrupt braking will crash the farmer under load due to tire washout. This is even more true for mtb riders as we often are not as heavy as farmers on motorcycles.
In this case, considering the land is both private and dangerous when descending, hikers should yield to farmers and riders during very steep and mossy sections.
Hikers from where I'm from are unfortunately usually very snobbish and thick in the head. They litter, steal fruits and does not yield to riders. This kind of mentality is very often from those "weekend/holiday" hikers who are frequently unfit and only there out of obligation.
what i see more and more is people making shortcuts on trails ruining the fun bits by creating a new, straighter trail in the process. like cutting trough sharp/hairpin corners, cutting corners with a tiny puddle, riding around ''technical' stuff. Basically avoiding everything considered mountainbiking. I blame it on roadies riding mtb in the winter months and strava times
Great video 👍.
Only one we don't do in UK is the not riding when there is standing water. If we did that we'd only be riding about five days a year on natural trails 😂.
Here the advise is, to ride through the standing water so the trail doesn't get made wider with people riding around it. Usually here if there is water it's because the ground underneath is hard.
Here in Scotland there used to be a lot of conflict with walkers but they were mostly of the older generation , now when coming down a hill they will quite often get out your way and even cheer you on , on tech bits. We're always prepared to stop though.
Unfortunately they also do this on uphills and will even open a gate for you just when you want to stop for a rest 😂😂😂.
About horses: TALK to them when you stop or get off your bike, so they know you are a human. "Hey buddy".... "Hows it going"... etc.
You ride behind someone on a fast descent for 5 minutes and nicely ask to get by. They ignore you or mumble something rude for 3 of the 5 minutes and he is half your speed. Advice?
I just look for a clearing and then say I’m coming around on your left or on your right. If all else fails just stop and let them go for a while and then get going again so it doesn’t mess up your descent.
@@ClintGibbs I did not take the "high road". I told him he forced me to do something dangerous after about 5 minutes of being polite and having good manners about it. Then he cursed at me in high Yankee (Woodstock GA here) and I let him have a verbal barrage that could only come from the son of an English teacher.
paul norris I’m a polite and patient person but if that happened to me I would definitely take the time to sternly educate this person on proper mountain bike trail etiquette. Unfortunately there are a lot of selfish and bitter people out there.
@@ClintGibbs Lunch ride at Blankets Creek trail system. Its 90% super tight single track and there arent too many opportunities to keep your speed above 15 MPH for anything longer than 30 seconds. This was appx 2 miles of 12 - 15 MPH speeds and he was in the 6 MPH range. We went through several areas where I called out to pass on a side and he BLOCKED me. There is a massive sign at the trailhead that says to yield to faster riders. I do it all the time. By his actions, I think he went out there wanting to create a problem.
paul norris Dawson and I will be riding Blankets Creek Monday around lunchtime (currently in Ellijay Riding). If I see him I’ll take care of it and let him know to not mess with Paul 😉
Good post. Here in Tallahassee some joggers use the bike trails, especially Cadillac Trail . Usual offenders are female, scantily clad, with headphones playing music so LOUD these females do not hear my bell(first) or then my screaming to GTFOMWAY! This is crazy. You need situational awareness females!!
Don't forget to yield to children that are walking or especially on a small bike . Small children don't always have full control of their bikes . i usually stop and let them pass .
Sorry but I'm on the other side when it comes to yielding. I'm going to get a shirt that says "I yield to downhill" Would you rather have a pause/break when your going up or down?
And if you come across a snake??
lawor8 - I came across probably the largest diamondback that I’ve ever seen at balm boyette yesterday. It was coiled up in the middle of the trail. I was descending when I saw it. I had to hit the brakes hard and wreck off of the trail. I ended up a few feet from it and only had my front wheel between me and it. Took like a minute to back away because I was caught up in vines. It never struck obviously. I consider my self lucky. I’ve never been so nervous in my life.
@@crimedog1973 I have seen a few big rat snakes but a diamondback? I'm am scared for life now LOL
crimedog1973 aren't snake's hibernating? It is winter... Not to discredit your story.
john Cast - it’s 80 degrees here in Florida. I think after the few recent colder weeks that we had the snakes think it’s spring/summer again. Lol
Lizard King - yeah. That is another really bad one. We have bear here in Florida, but probably not like they do there. We thought we heard a bear once when taking a break at a local trail and we moved away from the sound pretty quickly. The major problem I had in this snake situation was that I was moving fast and although I saw him ahead of time I had nowhere to go but into the trees. I wish I could have went further away from him
Plus. If you see a trail dirty or out of sorts. Clean it up. Please pick up twigs. And don't skid.
Being the decending person and not moving over to let the person climbing the huge massive heart pounding climb, go by,
Is the same as opening the door at the grocery store and making the person who's trying to come in, wait to the side, outside, while your fat ass and 3 kids just plow your way out to get into your ragged out '98 Ford Expedition on fake 20" spinners.
What bugs me most isn't that I had to wait to get through the door and into the store. It's that it is currently -42* F out right now, and my hand just about froze to the door handle while I was being courteous and holding the door open...
How bout a thank you or have a great ride after you pass some one.
Yep, that's good.
you should throw "ebike" in the title. this subject is a huge issue with ebikers. we could get along a lot better with there was a understanding. of course you will have to add a bit about trail access for ebikes
2:34 even those who put the bike in the middle of the trail... :(