Trail etiquette for eMTBers: a few simple rules to get on well with fellow trail users in the wilderness
Hikers wielding Nordic walking poles like lightsabers, horse riders teaching their equine friends to empty their bowels the entire width of the path and joggers training hard for the next nagging Olympics – don’t you sometimes ask yourself what on earth these people are doing in nature?
Outdoor adventures can be exhausting, especially when you have to put up with so many weekend idiots on a beautiful Sunday afternoon. Yes, people like to think that they own the frigging place, which is mostly due to a total lack of empathy and emotional intelligence. But remember, you’re just one in 7.5 billion people, a tiny drop in the ocean, which makes it impossible not to run into other people in nature, whether you’re driving, walking or riding. However, that’s no reason to behave like a wild animal, blindly pursuing Darwin’s theory of natural selection. Whether you like it or not, nature is increasingly becoming an adventure playground for leisure and freedom seekers. As eMTBers, we can (and should) contribute significantly to creating a culture of peaceful coexistence. If you follow our eMTB etiquette guide, you’ll be more likely to enjoy encounters on your rides and engage in interesting conversations – and you might even get a few great tips for your next adventure in the area!
1. Always be well equipped!
Preparation is a key prerequisite for every bike ride: before setting off, find out everything about the route, from terrain morphology and grade of difficulty to unique features – and of course, don’t forget to check the weather forecast! Once that’s sorted, you can start choosing your equipment according to the situation and conditions. Your basic equipment should include a cycling helmet, long-finger gloves, cycling glasses, first aid and puncture kits, and a mobile phone. Especially when riding in the mountains, you should always keep an eye on the weather and check the forecast regularly.
2. Know what you’re capable of
Be aware of your fitness level and riding abilities. Don’t overestimate yourself, as by doing so you could endanger yourself and others. Start off the season with short rides and gradually increase both the amount of time you spend on your bike and the grade of difficulty.
3. Keep an eye on your battery and range
The outcome of an eMTB tour depends heavily on the range of the battery. When planning your route, take into account factors such as outside temperature, unplanned detours, hike-a-biking, different terrain conditions, charging opportunities and the weight of your gear.
4. Make sure your eMTB is in good working order
Breaking down just sucks! However, in many cases you can avoid unpleasant surprises by checking your bike before heading out into the mountains, or if you prefer, let an experienced mechanic do it for you.
5. Respect other trail users and treat them the way you want to be treated
To promote a pleasant coexistence in nature, we should always give priority to “weaker” trail users. For example, when approaching a group of hikers, you can ring your bell or just say hello to announce yourself, thus avoiding unnecessary stress and frictions. Respect is always key!
6. Be considerate when eMTBing
No matter how wide or narrow they might be, trails and paths aren’t race tracks. Keep your bike under control in all situations and make sure you can stop in time. Don’t put yourself or others in danger by riding too fast. Use your rear brake carefully and avoid skidding.
7. Treat the flora and fauna with respect
We’re only guests in the great outdoors. Take your rubbish home, leave the flora alone and don’t bother wildlife, grazing animals or other creatures. Always keep the water clean and refrain from shouting in the forest, you’re not Tarzan!
8. Don’t ride outside existing paths and trails
Meadows and forests are protected areas. Always stick to existing paths and refrain from deviating from them – and don’t cut corners, just ride them like everyone else!
„Mutual respect and consideration are the key to a harmonious coexistence in nature. We’re all ambassadors of our beloved sport and, as such, are responsible for the image of our collective – without ‘ifs’ or ‘buts’. Always!“
Michaela Zingerle Managing director BikeHotels South Tyrol
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Words: Robin Schmitt, Andy Rieger Photos: Christoph Bayer
