User Guide

13
ONE
Guide for
Safe Road
Riding
RIDE RESPONSIBLY OFF ROAD
At Fisher, we follow these IMBA Rules of the Trail when riding our mountain bikes off road.
We hope you will, too. The future enjoyment of our sport depends on good trail manners.
1. RIDE ON OPEN TRAILS ONLY.
Respect trail and road closures (ask if not sure), avoid possible trespass on
private land, and obtain all required permits and authorization. Federal and State
Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. Additional trails may be closed because of
sensitive environmental concerns or conflicts with other users. Your riding example
will determine what is closed to all cyclists!
2. LEAVE NO TRACE.
Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you. Even on open trails, you should not ride
under conditions where you will leave evidence of your passing, such as on certain
soils shortly after a rain. Be careful not to ride during spring thaws or any time
when the weather makes for sensitive trail conditions. Observe the different types
of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling. This also means staying
on the trail and not creating new ones. Be sure to pack out at least as much as
you pack in.
3. CONTROL YOUR BICYCLE.
Inattention for even a second can cause disaster. Excessive speed is dangerous
and threatens people. There is no excuse for it!
4. ALWAYS YIELD TRAIL.
Make your approach known well in advance. A friendly greeting (or bell) is
considerate and works well; startling someone may cause loss of trail access. Show
your respect when passing others by slowing to a walk or even stopping. Anticipate
that other trail users may be around corners or in blind spots.
5. NEVER SPOOK ANIMALS.
All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a
loud noise. This can be dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give animals
extra room and time to adjust to you. In passing, use special care and follow the
directions of horseback riders. Running cattle or disturbing wild animals is a serious
offense. Leave gates as you found them or as marked.
6. PLAN AHEAD.
Know your equipment, your ability, and the area in which you are riding and
prepare accordingly. Be self-sufficient at all times, keep your bike in good repair, and
carry necessary supplies for changes in weather and conditions. A well-executed trip
is a satisfaction to you and not a burden or offense to others. Keep trails open by
setting an example of responsible cycling for all mountain bicyclists.
7. BE A GOOD NEIGHBOR.
The opportunity to ride on any trail brings with it a responsibility to maintain
the trail, whether it be State or privately owned lands. Volunteer to assist in trail
maintenance. Help your local park ranger, or form a group of your own, to clean and
maintain trails in your area. Pick up trash when you see it. Be kind to other trail
users. Form friendly relationships with hikers, equestrians, other trail users, and the
people who own or manage the land you use.
Dedicated to the appreciation of and access to recreational lands, nonprofit IMBA
welcomes your support. Contact:
International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA)
P.O. Box 7578 [phone]
Boulder, CO 80306 FAX [phone]
www.imba.com