Product Description

Customer Reviews (2)

Great Book
Liked this book a lot. Lot of trails and insider info. Good overwiev of where you can go biking. They have web adresses and phone numbers for detailed infos.

Awesome for planning
I bought this book to plan a trip to Europe for biking.This book is filled with pertinent information.Not only does it give you info about the actual quality of the biking, but park hours, cost, hotels, food, etc. The book is easy to navigate through to find specific types or areas of riding. They also have a great rating system to evaluate the type of riding and overall quality of the park. Overall the book very thorough and I would recommend it to anyone. ... Read more

Product Description
Featuring nearly 50 of the greatest mountain bike rides in Northwest and Central Oregon, local mountain biker and author Lizann Dunegan leads cyclists to some of the most scenic and varied landscapes in the state. From the northwest corner of Oregon, where rocky coastline meets the pounding waves of the Pacific Ocean, to majestic Mount Hood in the Cascade Mountain Range, to the dry sagebrush desert near Bend--this part of Oregon mesmerizes everyone who passes through. Areas covered include: Portland/Salem, Columbia River Gorge/Hood River/Mount Hood, Eugene and Oakridge, Bend and Central Oregon, the Oregon Coast, and Southwest Washington. Readers will find comprehensive trail descriptions, from beginner to advanced, GPS-quality route maps, accurate route profiles showing the ups and downs of each ride, detailed directions to each trailhead, mile-by-mile directional cues, difficulty ratings, elevation gain, trail contacts, local information, and much more.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Not a bad book, just not a great one
The other Falcon Guidebooks seem to be a lot more in-depth in their trail selection. Looks like this one only covers the NorthWest--despite the title suggesting it also includes Central. How can any decent guidebook on Oregon mountain biking not include the 78 mile epic Umpqua River Trail? Hello! That's the biggest reasons I purchased this book. And decidedly in the Central region of the state.

Don't bother...
Unless you have never ridden a bike before anywhere in Oregon, I wouldn't recommend this book.Not knowing many trails in Oregon I bought this for some new trails to ride.When I got the book I decided to take a look at a few of the trails I am familiar with and quickly realized that the information presented was inaccurate or misleading.For example Mary's Peak; she says to ride up and down east ridge trail and rates it as advanced.You ride up east ridge trail because it is easy and you ride down north ridge trail, not a out and back.And riding back down east ridge trail would be an easy to moderate rating and I am only an average to above average rider.I noticed a lot of her rides were out and backs and that is rare with my experience, either you ride in one trail and out another, loop or ride a service road up and single track down.Another expample is McKenzie River, even she says its 26 miles of great riding but her directions have you ride 9 miles then turn around, once again a totally uneccesary out and back.There are a lot of great trails around where I live and none mentioned, also some of her honorable mentions trails are better than some that made her list.There isn't a index at the back of the book, so you have to know what region the trail is in if you have a trail name.She gives a lot of historical information on some trails, which being a history buff I can appreciate but if I buy a book for mt bike trails don't puff it up and waste space that could have been used for more practical information just because you needed to fill pages.Basically, because the information on the few trails I know was wrong, I feel I can't trust the information on trails I am unfamiliar with.It might be a reference to find a trail name and go ask someone at the bike shop about it, but other than that a waste of money, better off just going to bike shops and asking, I've had great luck with that before.

I would recommend this book
The book does a nice job of describing various rides.The descriptions contain enough information for you to make an informed decision when trying to decide between various trails. ... Read more

Product Description
Expert tips on conquering curves, corners, dips, descents, hills, water hazards and other all-terrain challenges.

Hit the dirt!

From breaking to bunny hopping, speed jumping to switchbacks-- here are the skills you need to catch big air and experience the best of off-road riding.

* Selecting the right rig for you and your budget.
* Step-by-step drills for clearing obstacles, popping wheelies and more.
* How to hammer it and ride faster than you ever thought possible.
* Seven ways to stay alive by avoiding face plants, biffs and other crash landings.
* All-weather strategies for plowing through mud, rain and snow.
* Pro advice on entering your first off-road race.
* Riding responsibly to save the trails.
* Planning the perfect tour and enjoying a fat-tire vacation.
* Tons more practical info for aspiring and die-hard dirtheads.

You also get skill-building techniques and strategies from world-class mountain bikers, including

* Ned Overend, six-time NORBA national champion
* John Tomac, 1994 NORBA downhill champion
* Juli Furtado, 1995 World Cup champion
* Missy Giove, 1994 world downhill champion
* Tinker Juarez, 1994 NORBA national champion
* Mike King, 1993 world downhill champion
Amazon.com Review
If road riding is the arrogant godfather of the cycling world,mountain biking is the fun-loving, black-sheep stepson. TheMountain Bike magazine editors reflect this spirit, tuningtheir highly accessible guide to both those with dreams of widowmakerdescents as well as others just looking for a pleasant Sunday spin onscenic dirt roads. Breaking the sport down into lively yet informativechapters--complete with cartoons and amusing anecdotes--they cover thebasics and then some. All technical skills are addressed, includingbunny hopping, high-speed cornering, and the terribly elegant nosewheelie. The guide also includes a comprehensive section on cyclingfitness and customizing a training program for would-be racers. No oneis alienated here, but if you fancy yourself an expert rider, youmight want to look elsewhere. This guide is geared more toward thenovice whose journey has only just begun. --Ben Tiffany ... Read more

Customer Reviews (13)

Mediocre
This book is a collection of articles from Mountain Bike Magazine dating from the early to mid 1990's. As such, the illustrations depict the ridiculous bikes and outfits that were high fashion at that time (A painful memory for me personally). This gripe aside, the instructional quality of this book is just lackluster. The topics are not organized in a logical manner. The reader must wade through the banal prose of magazine filler to get to any useful tips. There is a dearth of practical illustrations and the instruction is just generally unhelpful. A novice rider might make some use of this book, but for all abilities there are much better instructional resources out there. I would strongly recommend Brian Lopes's book, Mastering Mountain Bike Skills, over this one.

Tidbits of useful information only
I bought this book as kind of a manual of how to handle a mountain bike. As such it is not a good book. What you do get is a number of short chapters convering everything from beginners to to racers. Read a chapter and you will pick up some ideas of how to handle your bike. I wish the book was more structured. I've given it three stars because I have not found anything better, but this is really a two star book if that better book is published.

I also bought Mountain Bike Like a Champion and I'm giving that book exactly the same review. The coverage is the same.

If you know a better book PLEASE leave a comment.

great general introduction
This book presents a great way to learn and master the tricky skills that must become instinctive for any good mountain bike rider.It also has plenty of helpful advice on practically everything from how to find the right bike to how to bike through snow.The only drawback is it's age.It seems to be written before the time of the internet and decent rear shock designs.

Good for a quick read.
The book is a bit outdated by today's standards but still presents a few good tips aimed squarely at the beginner.An updated version with a greater emphasis on current trends (the plethora of clipless pedals and the proliferation of full-suspension rigs, as well as the concept of cyclocross) would probably help to advance the level of content just enough to entice beginners and those in the first year or two of their riding development.

Boring and dry
I wish there was a more helpful review from this website before I purchased the book, the only reason i am looking at the book on amazon right now is to check how much money i wasted.10 dollars which is alright iwth me. i'll still read it, thru the course of the yeaer maybe.

honestly, this book cant be applied to me.It is written by a road biker gone mountain biking and maybe it will be more suitable for the same type of ppl.He starts off really dry and comparing everything to the feel and how its done in the flip side of road biking.

the book contains this ridiculous 3 month day by day guideline of how you should approach the mountain biking and the sectoin about choosing ur mountain bike and etc is just plain ambiguous and unhelpful.

i dont mean to bag on this book but after reading other books (like lee/lopez's mtb skills) i was blown away at literary style along with EXCELlent application to beginners and pros.and its downright fun to read.makes me not wanna go back to this purple book but i will after i finsih lee's.

i know this wasnt a helpful review either but please consider reading INSIDE the book before purchasing. i learned my lesson. ... Read more

Product Description
"Scotland Mountain Biking - The Wild Trails" is the 11th title in Vertebrate Publishing's bestselling series of UK mountain biking guidebooks. This book showcases 25 routes in Scotland, between 6 km and 290 km in length, suitable for all levels of mountain bikers. Scotland has been named a 'Global Superstar' by the International Mountain Biking Association (IMBA) on a number of occasions, and the variety of terrain, the locations and the jaw-dropping scenery mean it is an incredible place to ride a mountain bike. The author of this guidebook, Phil McKane, is a Scottish Mountain Bike Leaders Association (SMBLA) qualified mountain bike leader and expedition leader. Phil has over 15 years of experience in all aspects of mountain biking, from cross-country racing to epic tours. The book is illustrated with stunning action photography from MBR Magazine photographer Andy McCandlish, a name synonymous with images of mountain biking in Scotland. Each route in this guide is described with easy-to-follow directions and details of distance, grade of difficulty, refreshment stops and is plotted on clear and easy to use Ordnance Survey 1:50,000 mapping.A Bonus Section includes the sought-after Coast-to-Coast tour from Fort William to Montrose. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (2)

Stumpjumper:25 Years.....John Riedy
More Specialized ad copy than history, Riedy's book is still a valuable addition to your bicycling library. The photos of MTB pioneers are especially interesting.I was disappointed in the comparatively scanty details regarding the evolution of the Stumpjumper--very incomplete documentation and too few photos of the bicycle's development from year to year and model to model!

History?
A good all around coffee table book.A little thinner than I thought it would be.The old pictures are small in that there is a lot of dead space around them.Can't complain when proceeds go to NORBA. ... Read more

Product Description
Mountain Biking Colorado's Front Range includes over 45 of the greatest off-road mountain bike rides along Colorado's Front Range. A mountain biking atlas to the Front Range region, this one-of-a-kind guidebook details each trail in relation to local history, geology, archeology, legend, and lore. Mountain Biking Colorado's Front Range includes rides near the major Front Range communities of Fort Collins, Boulder, Denver, and Colorado Springs. In addition to the rides, this book also includes additional chapters on mountain bike related topics such as the International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA), Any and All Bikes one-stop mobile bike shop, and Denver's famed HandleBar & Grill. Readers will find highly detailed and accurate maps, route directions, brilliant photography, vivid descriptions, and much more.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Gets you to the trail
2.5 stars. This book informed me about mountain biking trails that I otherwise would not have known about but it really lacks a realistic and comprehensive rating system of trail quality. I spent a lot of time trying trails on the front range that were not very good that he presents as being worthwhile and describes as "popular". There was a reason I had never heard of some of the trails in this guide. For example, the Ceran St. Vrain trail is described as being "a Boulder favorite" and people "drool over the pristine singletrack". What!?!? I had never heard of anyone biking that trail... nor did I drool and that's cuz it SUCKS!! We were the only morons on bikes!!! Heil ranch he describes as being great for those who like smooth singletrack... nothing could be further from the truth! Heil Ranch...for the most part...is as rocky as any trail around Boulder gets. Maybe he meant Hall Ranch,that's the best ride on the front range. And he describes the Mountain Lion Trail as technically and aerobically similar to Walker Ranch... not even close. Walker Ranch is waaay easier and waaay better quality.

But enough complaining. The detailed descriptions of the geology and history are cool. The elevation profiles seemed accurate and the book got me to try some new stuff. It seems like mountain biking guidebooks would benefit from star rating system of trail quality that is the result if some kind of consensus. That way we could prioritize our rides...time is always a factor in our lives. Maybe on the next printing.

Guidebooks are tricky business. They result in more traffic in our favorite areas...but if it's gonna be done, it might as well tell me what I really want to know: How good is it really?

ADDENDUM: I also noticed that one of the trail maps in the book DID NOT jibe with the trail map at the trailhead. I trusted the trailhead map thankfully. It seems like the author did cursory research of that particular trail. So beware, that may be true of others as well. Once again, this guidebook gets you to the trailhead, but the rest is up to you.
... Read more

Product Description
Whether you're just getting started or you're a seasoned off-road rider, this guide will help you hone your skills and make the most of every ride. You'll learn from experts who've been through it all, like former world champion Ned Overend and Olympic medalist Susan DeMattei. From uphill skills to downhill thrills, you're sure to find everything you need to know to ride like a pro.

Discover how to:
* Fit a great ride into a busy schedule with the "hour of power."
* Cruise through the toughest corners with the tripod turn.
* Tap into the flow--and glide over challenging terrain.
* Acclimate quickly and easily to every hazard on trails.
* Boost your climbing speed and comfort with switch-side breathing.
* Revive a midseason training slump.
* Crash without getting hurt.
... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Complete information but not enough illustration
I prefer the other Mountain Bike Magazine's "Complete Guide to Mountain Biking Skills", which has better illustration/pictures to show you how the situation looks like.

As good as it gets!
I purchased this book yesterday and was impressed immediately. The book has a lot of excellent tips on every aspect of MTB. Another added bonus is the drills it has to help to develop increased riding skills.The tips areset up to gradually build confidence as you progress. The tips by some ofthe pros Overend and Susan Dematte for example are great. If you arelooking for a book to help with all aspects of MTB this is the one to get.I will be recommending this book to friends and that is for sure. ... Read more

Product Description
Take a ride through history with Mountain BikingPennsylvania. Author Rob Ginieczki leads you on an exploration throughlush, wooded mountains and rolling hills and uncovers the historybehind some of Pennsylvania's most exciting trails. Test yourtechnical skills on sweet single-track; meander along a cold mountainstream; or enjoy an easy ride with your family on one ofPennsylvania's many rail trails. From the Laurel Highlands to thePocono Plateau, Mountain Biking Pennsylvania can point you in theright direction to adventure and fun.

Mountain bikers of all abilities will enjoy the classic assortment ofrides included in this guide. Detailed ride descriptions make it easyto find trailheads and follow routes helping you stay on track witheasy-to-read maps and ratings for physical and technical difficulty.

Mountain Biking Pennsylvania is part of Falcon's expanding series ofstatewide mountain biking guides designed to help make all yourmountain biking adventures safe and memorable. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Nice mix of trails, something for everyone
As another reviewer stated, make sure to check the current status of any reviewed trail before packing up and heading out. A quick google search is all that is required, or check out[...]for the current status of trails.

Having said that, this is a great book. It's not a thin little book with only a few rides. I found it very sizable and covers a good areas so whether your in Philly, Pittsburgh or somewhere in between there are rides near you.

My favorite features is selecting rides by feature. You can select rides for endurance, scenery, technical rides, single track, etc.

For biking with my wife I love the finding some nice family rides and rail trails in my area, and for myself I love long technical trails that test quads and skills.

My only complaint is that the index is arranged by ride numbers so after you look up the ride number you have to go to the index to see which page number it is on. Which is sort of annoying. It should list both.This problem is easily solved with the use of a paper clip on the PA map page and the front index.

Mountain Biking Pennsylvania
This is by far the best book I have ever read for mountain biking in PA.It gives you a great amount of detail for each ride.It gives you everything you could possible need to know and more.It even gives you historical facts about the trails.It goes into great detail about the route and turn-by-turn directions by the tenth of a mile.Each ride is rated on many different categories include distance, surface, grade and even technical difficulty.It also provides a diagram that shows you were the step parts of the ride are and rates each of the climb.The book also does a great job as giving rides through out the entire state.The book contains 91 rides.I would highly recommend this book over the many books I have read.

Best thing for PA Mtn. Bikers
The book provides a well-written, comprehensive, guide to the entire state.It is apparent that the author has logged countless hours in providing riders with a complete guidebook to many rides throughout the state.Although this book does not cover any specific region in depth, it gives riders a taste of all areas.Riders of all skill levels will appreciate the format.There is a colorful and informative commentary for each ride, providing the "icing on the cake." This is one of my favorite books in my collection but one that never stays on the shelf.

Comprehensive & interesting
I have been searching for a good guidebook on PA mountainbiking for over a year. Ginieczki's effort here appears to be very well done. I have ridden at least 5 of his reviewed trails in the Eastern & Northcentral parts of the state,most before the book was ever published. I found his reviews of these particular trails very detailed, accurate,interesting & w/ crisp & clear directions. He sprinkles interesting bits of geography, history, humor & trail tips that make reading most enjoyable. I like the way the book is laid out & written, with good up to date markers & maps.Most measured trail distances matched my bike's computer - a good sign. My only gripe is that,unfortunately, it's not the kind of book that is easy to pack or refer to during rides. Otherwise, the most up to date, informative & best of its kind for PA that I've come across.

Please avoid the South Mountain Emmaus Trails
The South Mountain, Emmaus, PA trails, as described in "Mountain Biking in PA" by Rob Ginieczki, are located on PRIVATE PROPERTY clearly marked by NO TRESPASSING signs. The gentlemen who owns this property is VERY ANTI-MOUNTAIN BIKE and these trails should be avoided. Numerous conversations took place between myself and the author of this book, before the book was published, informing him of the access problems associated with this area. Since he chose to disregard these conversations and send his readers to areas which are ILLEGAL to ride in, I would suggest that all readers be wary of the trail directions provided in this book. Please feel free to e-mail me for other, legal areas to ride in this area. ... Read more

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Customer Reviews (2)

Nice book, nice maps, nice descriptions, poor GPS
Nice book, nice maps, nice descriptions, poor GPS.If you can't find a book with better GPS info., then this one works well.Maps are good, descriptions have enough detail too.

Mountain Biking Lake Tahoe
Very good book. Lots of trails that I would have never known about. The trails are broken up into regions around the lake, making it easy to plan outings for where ever you are going. ... Read more

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Product Description

Customer Reviews (3)

Breath Play!
I know this book came out a million years ago, but I stumbled upon it here as I was searching for a mountain bike book to put on the back of the toilet.I bought this book many years ago and knew I had to tell people how great it is.If you are searching for a book on mountain biking, you may not be into this one due to its age.Go ahead and buy it.It is stuffed with the kind of information that made sense to me when I was riding my bike.There's a fair amount of technical knowledge but the beauty lies in the attitude the book imparts.Breath play... indeed.Crashing... no problem.buy it.

The one that stayed
When I started mountain biking, I bought a few books for helping me figuring it all out. This one was amongst them.

Unfortunatelly, mountain biking books start by telling you that instead of reading books you should get on your bike and ride. An invaluable $15 tip, but why don't they put it on the back cover? :)

So, 3 years later, I have a nice shelf with a few rarely touched mountain biking books. It's only this specific book that I find myself returning to every now and then. Why? for 2 reasons I could think of:

1. It has a good spirit. It motivates me. I'm a jogger / recreational rider, doing it for the quality of life. I sometimes need a little push for the next day's training, andHoward is a great motivator. I remember a few times when a phrase in this book made me set an alarm for 5:30 the next day. Isn't that what sport books are for?

2. I use it as a reference for... running. It has valuable sections about stretching exercises and breathing. The mountain biking techniques are also explained thoroughly, although not very well illustrated. Howard explains technical stuff very well.

If you are looking for a well illustrated book, or a biking dictinoary / bible then this might not be your best bet. But, as I said, my shelf has many of these while this one is still in use.

Howard does for mountain biking what Fixx did for running
John Howard has done for mountain biking what Jim Fixx did forrunning: written a single-volume point of departure that, in one fast,easy read, provides an overview of a nascent sport brimming not only with information but inspiration. Dare to open Dirt! to the first page and you'll be hard pressed to resist hitting the trails the same day.

There are few sports experiencing the explosive growth of mountain biking, and few as misunderstood by the non-participating public. While it is true that some mountain bikers missing the self-preservation gene monopolize television time by indulging their psychoses in stunts of escalating danger, the real truth is that mountain biking is an activity that, like skiing, swimming or volleyball, can be enjoyed on virtually any level by everyone from the most committed sofa spud to the highest-ranked elite athlete. And you don't need a"mountain" to do it, either, as Dirt! clearly demonstrates.

The sport couldn't have picked a better spokesman: Howard (The Incredible Human Machine) is one of the most accomplished and versatile cyclists in the world. Three-time Olympian and an Ironman champion, he held the world record for speed on a bicycle (an astonishing 152 miles per hour) for years before he helped someone else to break it.That kind of gracious sportsmanship comes through in Dirt! It's a clarion call to others to discover the exhilaration of leaving asphalt behind, and if there's one overarching theme that runs throughout, it's Howard's fervent desire to draw others into a sport he knows will bring immense personal rewards.

This well-illustrated book is full of wonderful advice for everyone from the rank beginner (practice your technical skills before a ride, when you're fresh, not afterwards, when you're tired) to the experienced competitor (spray Pam all over your bike before a muddy ride and you'll avoid pounds of clinging mud weighing you down). There is also a good deal of attention paid to the mental aspects of riding, which thankfully avoids the "be one with your derailleurs" school of spiritual hokum and presents instead Howard's hard-won wisdom concerning mindset and attitude.

There are chapters covering such topics as maintenance, stretching, weight training and jumping technique, but one of the most fascinating is "Surviving the Crash." Howard is the man who first uttered one of cycling's most basic axioms, that there are two kinds of cyclists: those who have crashed, and those who will. This chapter is one that should be read by anyone who ever mounts any kind of bike, and alone is worth the price of the book.

While Dirt! could benefit from some tighter proofing and a few additional definitions for pure neophytes - terms such as scrub, drifting and "foot dab" are largely understandable from context, but a bit more depth might aid in really comprehending their significance - these are minor carps and undoubtedly will be attended to in the many future editions that are sure to come. The book is short at 180 pages but that's because Howard cuts to the chase without wasting a lot of your time with superfluous verbiage.

Now that I think about it, he seems to be saying, "Enough reading...get out and ride!" ... Read more

Product Description
Master the techniques of America's greatest rider.

* Glide over rocks, logs, and ledges
* Attack steep climbs and rapid descents
* Carve through curves and turns
* Train smart, then ride to win

Improve your performance with these tips, techniques, and off-road tales from mountain biking legend Ned Overend.

"At the 1990 world championships in Durango, Colorado, Thomas Frischknecht and I were locked in a dogfight.... At the start of the fourth and final lap was a pitch of rocky, loose trail that went straight up the face of a ski run.... My Swiss rival had been dismounting and running this climb while I stayed on my bike. On previous laps, I'd opened a little gap, so I knew this would be my chance. I attacked when Thomas got off again. He never caught me.... To ride that steep trail, I had to use five climbing techniques. There's no reason why you can't make them part of your arsenal, too."
... Read more

Customer Reviews (22)

Pretty Good
Fun stories and good descriptions. Not as many "Skill drills" as I would have liked.

Still Relevant after all these years
It is amazing how relevant this book still is. Ned gives riding tips and racing strategies that can be used by bikers of all skill levels. The only changes since the book was written have been in the technology used by 21st century athletes. I have a friend who has been riding mountain bikes for many years and he says he is still learning from this same book. It is only a shame that in all this time no one else has stepped up to publish a more recent version.

Tidbits of useful information
I bought this book as kind of a manual of how to handle a mountain bike. As such it is not a good book. What you do get is a number of short chapters convering everything from beginners to to racing professional races. Read a chapter and you will pick up some ideas of how to handle your bike. I wish the book was more structured. I've given it three stars because I have not found anything better, but this is really a two star book if that better book is published.

I also bought Mountain Bike Magazine's Complete Guide To Mountain Biking Skills: Expert Tips On Conquering Curves, Corners, Dips, Descents, Hills, Water Hazards, And Other All-Terrain Challenges and I'm giving that book exactly the same review. The coverage is the same.

If you know a better book PLEASE leave a comment.

Must read for new mountain bikers!
This book is great, I have only had it for a week, but it is an easy read, and not boring. New Overend covers many different aspects of mountain bike technique, and keeps it interesting. This book has helped me with my confidence already. I would suggest this book to anyone who likes mountain biking and would like to learn how to ride better.

Biking skills improved immediately.
I read the chapters on basic biking skills and immediately I was riding better.I go to Palo Duro Canyon, near Amarillo, Texas, and ride the trails.After reading parts of his book, I was able to get over some of the rough spots that I previously had been walking.It is also much easier to ride the trails because I had been doing many things the hardest way.It is an excellent book! ... Read more

Product Description
From Pigeon Mountain to Mistletoe State Park, MountainBiking Georgia is the quintessential guide to 50 of the best rides inthe Peach State.Nutt takes mountain bikers on trails leading toendless vistas of the Blue Ridge and through the lush Chicopee Woodsnear Gainesville.This new FalconGuide features several rides onnewly constructed trails never before published in a guidebook.Complete with elevation graphs, easy-to-read maps, and detaileddescriptions of every ride, Mountain Biking Georgia is a must forthose who want to take advantage of the eclectic assortment of trailsthe state has to offer.Mountain Bikers of all abilities will enjoythe classic array of rides varying in length and difficulty andappealing to a variety of moods, skills, and fitness levels.MountainBiking Georgia is a part of Falcon Publishing's expanding series ofstatewide mountain biking guides.These books provide easy-to-useinformation designed to help make all your mountain biking adventuressafe and memorable. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

A must have!
I've owned and utlized this 'guide' for approximatly two years.We reside in the Atlanta area and are avid mountain bikers and cyclists.This guide is essential for trail markers, ride routes and cool treks off the beaten path.The book is small enough to tuck away in your camelback and use while riding!FANTASTIC!I would highly recommend if you are looking for trails in Georgia...

The Best Trails in GA in one book!
Alex Nutt, former president of SORBA (Southern Off Road Bicycle Association), does a fantastic job of listing the best rides in North Georgia. The book includes very accurate directions, maps, and photos ofthe trails. This is the best trail book I have seen for Georgia. As formerpresident of SORBA, Alex knows the trails better than almost anyone in thearea. ... Read more

Product Description
Where else can you complement a day's mountain bike ride with a dizzying glissade down a mid-August snowfield? Where else can you descend nearly 40 miles through five biogeographical zones?Where else can you catch a major league game and be ripping along rocky singletrack 30 minutes later? Colorado, that's where.

Snow in August, lighting above timberline, and 100 degree desert temperatures are all to be expected in the sport of Colorado mountain biking. As the country's highest state, Colorado offers its mountain bikers a unique perspective into the sport and raises the bar for all who ride. Under the expert guidance of local cyclist Steven Hlawaty, come admire the beauty and revere the majesty that is Colorado.

From this book you can expect exhaustive and comprehensive trail descriptions, from beginner to advanced, GPS-quality, digitally designed relief maps detailing each ride and accurate route profiles showing the ups and downs of each ride. In addition detailed directions get you to the ride without getting you lost. Detailed mile-by-mile directional cues are also provided with difficulty ratings, elevation gain, trail contacts, and much more. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (6)

Thorough and complete
This book covers it all, from accurate and interesting ride descriptions, to quality maps, to action photography, to a veritable database of other outdoor adventure resources.

The book does a great job capturing the overall scope of Colorado mountain biking, throughout all of Colorado.

One of the best guide books I've ever seen.

All the information you need in one place
Well worth the money.Excellent maps, background information on every ride, good directions to trailheads.I recommend this book to everyone who does off road in Colorado.

local who uses the book
This book is a fantastic guide to some of the best trails in Colorado.As an avid mountainbiker I have used the book to get me to and through many rides both in my area and on many a weekend journey.The informatoin on lodging, places to eat and other recreation in the areas is a great aditional tool that most guide books overlook.if you are going riding in Colorado this is the book you need.

Highly unrecommended for the price
This book, while a nice intro to biking in colorado, is totally unnecessary. The maps you can get for free from any local visitor or tourism center (in basically any town in touristy colorado) are far more complete and will provide more trails in greater detail. But back to the book- there are some problems with it (besides the fact that it neglects many great trails that one might miss if one uses the book in lieu of other free maps listing trails), the greatest being that the topo (altitude over distance) maps are generally quite a bit off, although they do give a general idea of elevation changes. But again, this is almost always included in the FREE maps you can get at the visitor's center in even the tiniest colorado town. Also, some of the trails (i.e. the Wabash Trail in Telluride) are not mountain biking trails and don't belong in the book. (For the record, I would like to see John Tomac bike Wabash in the "expert" time frame of 3-4 hours that was listed in the book - this trail is 50% insurpassable while seated on the bike and a huge waste of time. I wouldn't have wasted a day on it if it hadn't been in the book). In summary, don't waste your cash. Buy a nice dinner instead.

Chock-full of local color and written with a sense of humor
I found this book for sale in a bike shop in Boulder, Co. I was about to embark on a ten day biking holiday and was relying on some short ride descriptions I had from a regular guide book.

Throughout the holiday Inever regretted making the purchase. No, not all the information wasimmediately useful because I never needed the section on how to distract amountain lion from attacking you but it was fun to have (throw stones butdon't bend down to pick them up - shout loudly and authoratitively - don'trun). The author leverages his local knowledge to bring you an exhaustivelist of rides ranging from the well-known to previously well-kept localsecrets.

I particularly enjoyed the Monarch Crest Trail - a savage andlong ride that takes you high above the tree line through a range ofdifferent montaine environments.

The book is full of essentialinformation but also takes time out to bring you stories full of localcolor and history. For example, the story of how Nipple Peak got its nameis written with subtle and deliciously understated wit. You don't just geta list of lengths, elevations and ride descriptions, you learn a lot aboutlocal history and the environment in which you ride, which will help youappreciate what you see even more.

If you're planning a trip to Coloradoor even just want to enjoy some great travel writing, you should read thisbook. However, be warned. Once you read about these rides, you'll want totry them all.

I had a great holiday - you will too. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

I wouldn't bother
The book should have been called "a brief introduction to advanced techniques."Despite the fact that the book is supposedly teaching "advanced technique,"the author provides far too little description of the techniques discussed to be useful.Each "technique" is given little attention, and there is no discussion of common pitfalls, things to avoid, etc.Additionally, there are too many wasted pages on fluff like "how to set up your bike" and the outdated references to "modern cliples pedals."Also, the book does not explain when/why you would choose one technique other another--i.e. when to use a "manual wheelie" or "torque wheelie."I guess the "made easy" part of the title means "dumbed down to the point of uselessness."

The other major drawback is pictures--or lack thereof.The pictures were black and white and there were not nearly enough of them to visualize the techniques being described.One of the pictures on "cornering" just showed the author on his bike with his wheel turned---no lines showing the different approaches through the turns, line of sight, etc....in fact, you could not even see the turn!Also, the author makes distinctions between off-camber cornering and other types of turns, but again, no pictures to show what he means. Most of the photos in the book are extreme close-up so you cannot get a feel for the context of the trail or set up for the move being described.

The book may be useful for a teenager who is just getting into mountain biking and wants a very basic introduction with a taste of advanced technique.However, if you are are roadie switching over to offroad and know the basics of bike set-up/basic handling and are looking for a detailed skills manual, look elsewhere, as this book is not worth the money.

Mountain Bike Master: Essential Skills and Advanced Techniques Made Easy
several people have wanted to buy this book from me!! I love it! It has helped alot!

Nice book
Intermediate rider here. I've read Brian Lopes' book which covers all disciplines. This book is targeted more towards the XC/ Technical XC rider. I'm an OK rider, not great, and learnt a few things from the book. Highly recommended.

Content wise, the pictures were b/w which was disappointing for a book this price.

From the most fundamental skills for those who don't know how to ride a bike, to the advanced techniques that the pros use
For some, high speed isn't enough. They need the adventure of treacherous terrain, and mountain biking is how they venture into it. "Mountain Bike Master: Essential Skills and Advanced Techniques Made Easy" is a complete and comprehensive guide to the world of mountain biking. From everything from the most fundamental skills for those who don't know how to ride a bike, to the advanced techniques that the pros use when the terrain gets rough, "Mountain Bike Master" proves itself time and time again, making it a must for any who want to get into the activity.
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Product Description
Mountain bikers of all abilities are sure to enjoy theclassic assortment of rides covered in this guide.From the awesomepine forests of the Chequamegon area to Madison's infamous Quarrytrails, Mountain Biking Wisconsin is the most complete and up-to-dateguide available.Detailed information concerning tread type, aerobiclevel, and technical difficulty is complemented with clear,easy-to-read maps and route descriptions, allowing you to choose aride that's appropriate to your skill and fitness level.Informationis also included about camping, flora, and fauna. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

An up-to-date guide to mountain biking anywhere in Wisconsin
Colby Waller's Mountain Biking Wisconsin is a complete, up-to-date guide to mountain biking anywhere in Wisconsin. Waller provides detailed information on bike tire tread type, aerobic and difficulty levels, easy-to-read maps and route descriptions, as well as practical information on Wisconsin camping, flora, and fauna. Mountain Biking Wisconsin is an ideal and enthusiastically recommended guidebook for mountain bikers seeking off-road biking opportunities for health, recreation, and adventure! ... Read more

Product Description
"In every corner of Idaho, a magnificent system of mountaintrails awaits you," writes award-winning author Stephen Stuebner in hisintroduction to Mountain Biking Idaho. The 80 rides in this book are asdiverse as the Idaho landscape. Experience singletrack nirvana in theSouth Hills near Twin Falls. Take a trip back in time by retracting theroute of Lewis and Clark's Corps of Discovery near Lolo Pass. Swooshdown the slopes near Sun Valley on your knobbies instead of your skis.Plan a multi-day yurt-to-yurt ride near Idaho City. If dirt is not yourstyle, pedal the paved Boise River Greenbelt, one of the many pavedrecreation trails featured in this book. Mountain bikers of allabilities will enjoy the classic assortment of rides included in thisguide. Detailed ride descriptions make it easy to find trailheads andfollow routes--helping you stay on track with easy-to-read maps andratings for physical and technical difficulty. It's time to taste agenerous sample of 19,000 miles of jeep and sing ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Not the best Mtn bike guidebook
Purchased this book for a mountain bike trip to Idaho. I was excited to read about the trail titled South Hills Singletrack Nirvana. While the author kept meticulous detail of the number of creek crossings, he failed to mention that the trail is mostly loose gravel climbing which was impossible to ride. It was not my idea of Nirvana. It was a big disappointment, especially since I drove over two hours to get there. There are better Idaho mtn bike guidebooks out there. A book titled "Good Dirt" is a great guide for riding in the Ketchum/Sun Vally area.

pretty good MTB guide for Idaho
This is NOT A HIKING GUIDE. This is a MTB guide to Idaho, a
fact which eluded the previous two reviewers. THERE ARE time and
difficulty ratings for each trail. It is well done and worth
your time if you are into MTB and would be in Idaho. It also
has altitude changes for the rides. Very helpful. Enjoy. ... Read more

Product Description
Mountain Bike Virginia explores the land whose terrain and geography are as unique and diverse as its history is rich and exciting. If you enjoy exploring remote coastal environments or the quiet backroads of Central Virginia's horse and wine country, or if you prefer hurtling down white-knuckled descents, crossing over deep river gorges, and cycling past waterfalls, wildlife, and rolling pastures, then Virginia is the place to be and this book is for you. Throughout its pages, Mountain Bike Virginia describes more than 50 of the state's greatest mountain bike rides, from sea level along the dunes at False Cape to nearly 6,000 feet atop the wind-beaten summits of Virginia's highest peaks.This guide contains exhaustive and comprehensive trail descriptions from beginner to advanced, GPS-quality, digitally designed relief maps detailing each ride, accurate route profiles showing the ups and downs of each ride, detailed directions to get bikers to the ride without getting them lost and detailed mile-by-mile directional cues, difficulty ratings, elevation gain, trail contacts, and much more.
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Customer Reviews (3)

Good book for biking and hiking
This book is well organized and detailed. I have not been lost due to bad intel and have thoroughly enjoyed each trail so far. The difficulty ratings are fair, too. The lists of 'best rides' at the beginning of the book that go beyond geography are very nice.

Holes in the Atlas
I found the format of this book to be quite useful.Trails are divided into geographic regions with detailed instructions on how to get to the trailhead.Each trail in the book has a standard trail map, an elevation map (useful to gauge the trail's difficulty), some text to give more detailed directions, and other trail details such as parking fees, whether or not you can bring your dog, etc.Don't buy this book if you are interested in riding in the Lynchburg / Bedford / Roanoke area as it seems the author has not spent a great deal of time in this part of the state.Otherwise, Northern and Eastern VA are well covered.

Outstanding Detail
Mountain Bike VA is an excellent book for the mountain bike enthusiast or just someone who enjoys biking at a more leisurely pace.Divided by VA Counties; each ride has detailed instructions on how to reach thetrailhead, associated costs, distances, type of trail, difficulty, a traildiagram which includes a trail terrain profile, a couple of pictures and awitty, descriptive narrative.Well worth the minor cost and then some.Ihighly recommend it. ... Read more

Product Description
There is nothing more invigorating than careening along nature trails on a mountain bike. The beautiful scenery, the fresh air, and the challenging exercise combine to make for the perfect outdoor pursuit. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Very disappointing, old pictures
What a lousy calendar, all the pictures are dated, some appear to be from over 15 years ago, shame on me for not noticing.I can't imagine why you would use old pictures when there are thousands of current ones produced every year.

Mountain Biking 2010
The only image in this calendar worthy of being stared at for a month is that for April 2010. Every other month's image is grainy, blurry, dark, or as the cover image suggests, looking up at a dude's butt. I suggest you find something else to satisfy your desire for mountain bikers riding through beautiful scenery. ... Read more

Product Description
Fasten your helmet and hold on tight!Mountain BikingSouthern California will take you on the rides of your life.AuthorsMark Ross and Brad Fine researched 69 of the best mountain bikingopportunities in the southern half of this sunny state.From theMexican border to the High Sierra, Mountain Biking Southern Californiatakes you on a tour of the sweetest trails near sandy beaches andalpine forests.Swoop down fast, adrenaline-pumping singletrack orcruise along a scenic dirt road.Mountain Biking Southern Californiais the most complete and up-to-date guidebook available and includesinformation by Dr. Harvey Ross on how to maintain your energy level,stay hydrated, and keep those legs pumping on grueling rides.

Mountain bikers of all abilities will enjoy the classic assortment ofrides included in this guide.Detailed ride descriptions make it easyto find the trailheads and follow the routes, helping you stay ontrack with accurate distances keyed to easy-to-follow maps and ratingsfor physical and technical difficulty. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (3)

Great book
Great book, very informative. The authors give a great deal of info on many different trails, from directions to the trail, descriptions of the trail, ratings on difficulty level, to cost of using the trails. Great book, a must buy for mountain bikers looking for some new places to ride in SOCAL.

Great variety of trails.
I found this book to very informative and opened up a lot of new riding experiences for me.As a Ventura/Los Angeles local, I got bored with the same old trails.This book provided me a good foundation to begin exploring a world of new trails, all within a few hours of my own home.The best part is that with one book, I was able to find trails in towns like Moro Bay, Santa Barbara, Big Bear and San Diego where I can now take weekend trips and know where to ride. The trail descriptions gave me a strong sense of the terrain and level of dificulty and I found them to be very accurate.

A colorless, forgettable, unremarkable guidebook.
This book is quite disappointing.The maps are okay, the elevation profiles are helpful, but otherwise it's utterly bland--and one thing mountain biking shouldn't be is bland.There's no sense of what makesthese mountain bike routes special (and if you've ever ridden in SouthernCalifornia, you know how special the riding is).I think there are otherguidebooks about Southern California that give you a lot more bang for yourbuck.There's no reason to settle for something as lazy, mundane, andobviously-tossed-together-just-to-make-some-cash as this. ... Read more