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Continuing concerns about mountain bikes

Despite the growing legitimacy of the mountain bike community, problems remain. Parking The 2003 bylaw banning non-resident parking in certain…

By Ian Bickis , in Environment Sport , on October 25, 2007

Locals complained about parkingDespite the growing legitimacy of the mountain bike community, problems remain.

Parking

The 2003 bylaw banning non-resident parking in certain areas of North Vancouver went a long way in alleviating the parking issue. But residents continue to complain about people parking on the streets, especially around the area where the parking ban ends. The Fromme plan calls for the construction of a parking lot, but funding for the project is uncertain.

Night riding

Despite technically being illegal under the bylaw that bans people from using the land at night, this form of riding continues to grow under very lax enforcement. Councillors Janice Harris and Robin Hicks both expressed their staunch opposition to the activity at the workshop.

Rider behaviour

As is often the case, a few members of the community blemish the reputation of all. But raucous behaviour at trailheads, changing in public, speeding in residential neighbourhoods, and blowing by walkers on the trial are all continuing residential complaints.

Unauthorized trail building

  But parking restrictions have helped

Jeremy Powers, professional trailbuilder, says that this is not so much an issue on Fromme because the mountain is already so over-built, but he acknowledges that elsewhere it is a problem and enforcement is difficult.

Liability

The North Shore style of mountain biking is very technical and demanding, and can result in serious injuries. The DNV wants to ensure it is not liable for allowing this. This issue has been a obstacle in achieving official designated mountain bike trails.

Injuries

Along with city concerns about liability, parents are concerned about the ‘extreme’ nature of the sport, and the possibility for injury. Participants counter that it is no more dangerous that downhill skiing or road biking. They also point to the health benefits of a physical activity that kids actually enjoy.

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