@JVP I would say not so much for trails popping up in Metro Van and Squam. While the North Shore is wealthy, parts of it weren't when mtb started here. Things were definitely not wealthy from Pomo to Poco and beyond. Besides, mtb was much more dirtbag culture when it started up. It has become rich/elite in time. And while there is a barrier to entry with new top of the line bikes, decent appropriate starter bikes can be had in the $800-1200 range if someone has a friend who knows what to look for. People are being sold WAY TOO MUCH bike for when they are first just starting out.
I will plant my flag on the hill of "You don't need a top flight bike to have fun" and die there defending that idea.
March 22, 2024, 5:54 p.m. - Mark
@JVP I would say not so much for trails popping up in Metro Van and Squam. While the North Shore is wealthy, parts of it weren't when mtb started here. Things were definitely not wealthy from Pomo to Poco and beyond. Besides, mtb was much more dirtbag culture when it started up. It has become rich/elite in time. And while there is a barrier to entry with new top of the line bikes, decent appropriate starter bikes can be had in the $800-1200 range if someone has a friend who knows what to look for. People are being sold WAY TOO MUCH bike for when they are first just starting out. I will plant my flag on the hill of "You don't need a top flight bike to have fun" and die there defending that idea.