Freeriders want technical trails and are willing to build them to suit their needs. The recent growth of unauthorized trail construction with added stunts, drops and other technical trail features proves this. If your club builds technical trails – with land manager permission, of course – you’ll attract freeriders to trailwork days and other club events.

Narrow bridges, teeter-totters, log rides and other technical trail features are becoming increasingly popular with mountain bikers. Most of the time, however, these features are constructed without authorization. For liability and other reasons, land managers have concerns with these structures on popular trails. However, many land managers are open to the idea of having special use zones or playgrounds for these types of stunts, similar to skateboard or snowboard parks. Work with freeriders and your local land manager to create these opportunities. Many land managers are also open to the idea of designing trails with a variety of options, allowing experts to take one line while offering others an alternative.

Lack of communication is typically the the root of unauthorized trail construction. Often, mountain bikers don’t think land managers will listen to their requests. This is especially true with freeriders. The fact is, land managers are reasonable folks who are looking for solutions. The savvy land manager knows the benefits of finding an area for freeriders, rather than the never-ending battle of chasing poachers or closing unauthorized trails. Use your club to create an open relationship between freeriders and land managers.

The easiest thing to do regarding freeriding and unauthorized trail construction is to criticize and separate your club from this element of our sport. This approach will only fragment the cycling community. Freeriders are enthusiastic mountain bikers. Listen to their ideas – you’ll gain their respect and learn something in the process. In turn, they’ll be more willing to listen to you.

It’s one thing to get freeriders to come to a meeting or two. It’s another to give them the opportunity to have a significant voice in the club’s decision-making process. Work to enlist a freerider or two in your club’s leadership or board of directors.

Club meetings need not be events that challenge C-SPAN for dynamic entertainment value. Keep meetings fun, lively and snappy. Show cycling videos, provide good food and drink and keep the agenda moving. These elements appeal to all mountain bikers – not just freeriders.

Freeriders tend to be passionate mountain bikers, and many spend a lot of time in local bike shops. Use these shops to get freeriders involved in your club. Put up flyers for meetings or better yet work to host club meetings or parties at a shop.

While certainly not the rule, freeriders are often young. They may have a different perspective on what types of riding and social events will attract the public riding community. Pay attention: if a freerider suggests that your club’s next fundraiser be a thumping techno dance party, perhaps they’re onto something.

Not with money, but with time. Take a freerider on a ride. Let a freerider take you on a ride. Freeriders are part of the future of our sport and your club. By taking the time to work with them and sharing your knowledge and experience, you can be sure the future of mountain biking will be in good hands.