There have to be trails, obviously. But a really good trail centre needs more – maybe it’s somewhere to wash your bike, maybe it’s a family option as well as a white knuckle death gnar trail. Maybe it’s a really good pie at the end of the ride. Trail centres can ebb and flow in fortunes as popularity, neglect, or even weather take their toll on the trails. Here are three that we think are all currently delivering the goods:
The Finalists – Best Trail Centre
Leeds Urban Bike Park
Only in its second year of existence, and straight into its second awards nomination, Leeds Urban Bike Park makes the finalists again. A great cafe (really great scones), tracks for all, and an expanded trail offering that includes a decent sized jump line, this is the kind of urban facility that puts other councils to shame.
LUBP On Twitter
Llandegla, North Wales
They’re nominated again – no doubt helped along by their continuing support for the ever popular MTB Meet Up. With a picturesque beginners’ trail surrounding a reservoir right through to the B-line full of rocks, drops and jumps, it’s a great place for all riding levels. A generous car park, big cafe, well equipped bike shop with bike hire, and a huge range of skills courses available there really is something for everyone – will they get your vote this year?
Check out the Twitter feed of the guys behind the trails at One Planet Adventure
Revolution Bike Park
A new entry for this year, prompted in part by their continuing investment in new lines and a series of jumps that many of us can only dream of hitting. While our other finalists have something for everyone, Revs is a big day out for the more advanced rider wanting to push their limits. Keeping the technicality high and creating lines to keep up with ever improving bikes, it’s good to see Revs supporting progression and the gnarlier end of the ride scene.
