The Kids Are Alright – The Riders of The Future

Shimano teamed up with Cam McCaul to look at what made him a rider, and the mountain bikers of the future. There’s an emphasis on play, a good dose of dirt jumping, and a disregard for fear that many of us will wish we still retained (if we ever had it).

It brings home the point that a place to play, that kids can get to under their own steam, is really important. Lockdown seems to have produced a flurry of diggers in the woods – and with it more conflict with other land users. Perhaps it’s time for adults to help make sure that kids like these have spaces to play on their doorstep – urban bike parks, local pump tracks, even sanctioned dig spots?

Kids Ride Shotgun Pro Seat

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And what does the kind of riding we’re seeing these kids do mean for the future of mountain biking? The video shows a mix of NICA style XC racing and freeride back flipping. Do we care – or are we just glad they’re out on bikes?

Hannah Dobson

Managing Editor

I came to Singletrack having decided there must be more to life than meetings. I like all bikes, but especially unusual ones. More than bikes, I like what bikes do. I think that they link people and places; that cycling creates a connection between us and our environment; bikes create communities; deliver freedom; bring joy; and improve fitness. They're environmentally friendly and create friendly environments. I try to write about all these things in the hope that others might discover the joy of bikes too.

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