Jeff Barber

Jeff co-founded Singletracks with his wife Leah in 1998 and has been dedicated to sharing the mountain bike information that inspires others to take epic adventures ever since. He started mountain biking in high school and served in the US Air Force before devoting himself full time to Singletracks in 2007.

Though formally educated as an engineer, Jeff began writing stories at an early stage, inspired by his mother who is a longtime accomplished author. He enjoys covering the world of mountain biking from every possible angle, whether it's trails or gear or skills. His goal for every story: that readers learn at least one new thing.

Author snapshot

MTB Background and expertise

  • Riding experience: Trail, XC, and bikepacking.
  • Mountain biking since: 1992
  • Number of products reviewed: ?. I think my first product review for the site was this one for a plastic wallet.
  • Current stable: Canyon Neuron, Orange P7 hardtail, and Scott Fun XC

Education and writing experience

  • Bachelors of Science in Engineering, Duke University
  • Masters of Business Administration, Duke University
  • Other publications: Panther Press (Lakeside High School - Augusta, GA), CitySearch.com
 
A pair of gray cycling shoes with a distinctive zigzag pattern, resting on the grass next to a mountain bike that has mud on its frame and tires. The bike features a visible crank and pedal.
A close-up image of a mountain bike showcasing its green frame with "ALLIED" branding, featuring brown Maxxis tires, a visible drivetrain with an X01 derailleur, and a combination of gear components. The bike is positioned on grass, highlighting its robust design and outdoor setting.
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A close-up view of a cyclist's hand wearing a black and gray glove, holding a Garmin device mounted on a bicycle handlebar. The screen displays training status information, highlighting metrics such as training load and status, over a blurred background of grass and outdoor scenery.
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Close-up of a mountain bike tire with the words "Wicked Will" visible on the side, partially covered in dirt. The background features green grass and leaves, suggesting an outdoor setting.
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A cyclist wearing a yellow and gray jersey stands next to a large colorful buoy at the Southernmost Point in Key West, Florida. The buoy features a conch shell design and text indicating the distance to Cuba. The background includes the ocean and a partly cloudy sky. The cyclist's bike is equipped with several bags for gear and supplies.
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Two cyclists riding mountain bikes along a dirt trail in a wooded area during daylight. One cyclist, wearing a white long-sleeve shirt and a helmet, is slightly ahead, while the other, dressed in a plaid shirt and a helmet, follows closely behind. The landscape features bare trees and a dirt track, indicating early spring conditions.
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A person cleaning the rear wheel and drivetrain of a mountain bike in a sunny outdoor setting, with mud visibly caked on the tire and components. The bike is propped up on a stand, and the background features a wooden fence and grassy area.
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A cyclist riding a mountain bike on a wooded trail, navigating over roots and greenery. The rider is wearing a black helmet, sunglasses, and a plaid shirt, with gloves and shorts, showcasing an active and adventurous moment in nature.
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Close-up view of a bicycle's chain and derailleur system, showing the gear mechanism and chain in motion, with a screwdriver positioned for maintenance or adjustment.
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A mountain biker in an orange shirt and gray shorts navigates over rocky terrain on a bicycle in a dense forest. The scene captures the motion of the rider as he skillfully maneuvers over large stones, surrounded by lush green trees.
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A view of a bicycle shop featuring a row of various bicycles displaying different colors and styles. The photo shows bicycles lined up in the foreground with several more hanging on the walls in the background. A portion of a sales counter is visible, with bike accessories and parts displayed prominently. Natural light is coming through a window, illuminating the space.
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A red gravel bike positioned on a leaf-covered dirt path, surrounded by trees in a wooded area. The bike features drop handlebars and thick tires suitable for off-road riding. Soft sunlight filters through the trees, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.
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Photo: Mina von Feilitzsch Photography
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Two mountain bikers navigate a dirt trail through a lush green landscape, surrounded by fog and palm trees. The scene captures the essence of outdoor adventure in a misty, tropical environment. One biker, wearing a helmet and riding gear, is focused on the path ahead, while the other trails behind, slightly obscured by foliage.
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Close-up of a mountain bike's seat and frame in a lush green forest setting, featuring a black Ergon saddle and a bright blue frame with a visible water bottle holder.
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A close-up view of an open camping sleeping bag laid on the ground, featuring a blue exterior and a gray interior. Surrounding the bag is a natural setting with dry leaves and grass. The sleeping bag's zipper and mesh areas are visible, indicating it's designed for outdoor use.
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A young rider performs a mid-air trick on a mountain bike, with a scenic backdrop of ocean and hills. Another cyclist is seen in the foreground, showcasing their bike's wheel, as the sun sets in the background, casting a warm glow over the scene.
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A close-up image of a cyclist wearing a black mountain biking helmet and sunglasses. The background features soft, blurred greenery, suggesting an outdoor environment. The cyclist is focused and appears to be preparing for a ride.
A coach giving feedback to a cyclist in a training environment. The cyclist, seen from the back, is wearing a team jersey featuring the names "Soudal" and "Quick-Step." The coach is gesturing with his hands and appears engaged in conversation, offering a thumbs-up in encouragement.
Close-up view of a mountain bike tire labeled "MINION DHF" with specifications including size 29x2.30 and 60 PSI, attached to a fork with gold and black components. The background features a blurred natural landscape with trees and a body of water.
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A mountain bike propped against a wall, showcasing its white frame, large tires, and various components like a shock absorber and water bottle holder. The background features a neutral-colored wall and a window with a sheer curtain, along with another bike visible in the lower part of the image.
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Close-up view of an adjustable shock component on a mountain bike, featuring a black and blue design with visible adjustment knobs and wires. The image captures the detail of the shock's interface against a blurred background of natural outdoor elements.
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A mountain biker in a bright yellow and black outfit falls onto the ground, surrounded by a cloud of dust. The bike is upside down, with one wheel in the air, as debris scatters around the scene.
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Close-up view of a bicycle's front fork and tire, showcasing a textured, knobby tire designed for off-road terrain. The shiny red frame of the bike contrasts with the grassy background, highlighting the bike's robust construction and readiness for adventure.
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A mountain biker in a helmet and protective gear jumping off a small ramp on a dirt trail surrounded by trees and foliage. The rider appears focused and is mid-air, capturing the action and excitement of mountain biking.
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