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Highbridge progression

 
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rossp
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Joined: 26 Jan 2006
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PostPosted: Fri Dec 12, 2008 10:12 am    Post subject: Highbridge progression Reply with quote
Jamie's post got me thinking..

jbogner wrote:
One more thing- the best thing any of us can do for mountain biking at Highbridge is not trail building, it's organizing programs to get more youth from the neighborhood using the trails. The primary goal of the Parks staff is serving their neighborhood. Increasing neighborhood buy-in to the trails would do more than any master plan. If any of you are interested in organizing an after-school program at the dirt jumps, then by all means let me know!


Focusing on local impact i.e. what the kids in the area would ride - right now there are kids who love to bomb over the small jumps and pump track but are nowhere near ready to launch themselves at the big set. As the big ones get more and more built up / steeper, that gap is going to get bigger. I think rather than focus on more and more big jumps we should think about how we can set things up so that there is more of a way for people to progress - things that are big enough to stop them getting bored on the small line but not as scary as the big ones. When the jumps were first built they were not so steep and so trying them wasn't as daunting as they could be rolled - hitting them for the first time is definitely tougher now.

I know a few people had mentioned other / intermediate jump lines - would a larger pump track with more optional jumps be an idea? Just random Friday am thoughts....
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rpet
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Joined: 27 Sep 2005
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PostPosted: Fri Dec 12, 2008 10:45 am    Post subject: Reply with quote
Ross -
We are going to re-build the intermediate line so that it is less dangerous and has room for progression. We just need a wheelbarrow to tackle that.

I don't feel a pump track is a means for DJ progression. It can be used by very small kids to roll over, but honestly it's primary utility is for intermediate/expert MTB riders/racers for fitness and to hone high-level techniques. BMXers do not ride pump tracks, speaking generally. I can clarify as to why, if anyone is wondering.

We have watched a number of kids progress all the way through what HB has to offer. All they need is dedication and the right equipment... the large jump line is not what holds them back.

I can't speak to the dedication part, as I have no experience as a teacher, parent or coach.

For the equipment part, I believe we need to build the terrain to cater more to BMX riders, as the barriers to entry for that sport are significantly lower than with MTBs.*

Right now the jumps are in better shape than previously for the BMXers, as the steeper lips are safer for them.
However, the lips need continuous maintenance, and overall the place needs to be kept well-swept, with the rocks sifted out as much as possible for the little wheels sans suspension. We need to keep drainage ditches to a minimum as well.

Future jump design with progressive features such as hips and transfer lines will do even more to help keep the young jumpers' interest.

Getting local BMX companies, shops and pros involved with the project will also help. It serves MTBers' interests to break down barriers with that community (as well as with CX for that matter).

-r

* For MTBers who aren't familar, we are talking a $150 used bmx or $300 new bike (plus a $20 helmet) are all that's necessary for what HB or the local skateparks offer. I probably wouldn't feel comfortable at the HB DJs or trails on a MTB that cost 3x that amount.
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