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 close-up view of a mountain bike's front fork and tire, featuring the Syncros logo. The bike is positioned near greenery, with a focus on the details of the tire tread and the fork design.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Syncros FL Carbon 29er Mountain Bike Fork Review
Jul 20, 2011
  9
A mountain bike resting on a grassy hillside with a mountainous backdrop, featuring a silver frame, black tires, and a visible chain and gears. The scene showcases a lush, green landscape under a clear sky.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
1x9 and Feeling Fine
Jul 8, 2011
  18
Two mountain bikes are securely mounted on a white bike rack attached to the rear of a silver SUV. The bikes have varying designs, with one featuring a green accent and the other a bright yellow and red detail. The background shows a grassy area with trees, while the ground is gravel.
Bike Racks
Kuat Sherpa Hitch Rack: A Silver Platter for Your MTB
Jul 1, 2011
  12
Exterior view of Fat Tire Farm, a bicycle shop, featuring a blue mural and large windows displaying bicycles inside. The sign above the entrance reads "Fat Tire Farm" and indicates that the shop is open. Several parked cars are visible in front of the store, with greenery in the background.
Culture
8 Bike Culture Observations From Portland, OR
Jun 30, 2011
  7
A forest scene with a variety of green trees and shrubs under a cloudy sky, showcasing a mix of tall coniferous trees and foliage in the foreground. The landscape extends into the distance, revealing more trees and gentle hills.
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain Biking Oregon: Tillamook State Forest
Jun 17, 2011
  4
A narrow dirt path winding through a lush forest, lined by tall trees with green foliage, creating a serene and natural atmosphere.
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain Biking Oregon: Sandy Ridge
Jun 16, 2011
  7
A black bicycle fork with the brand name "FL" and the word "CARBON" printed in red, resting on green grass. The fork features a design suitable for mountain biking, with a sturdy construction.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Syncros FL Carbon Mountain Bike Fork Preview
Jun 6, 2011
  10
Sign welcoming visitors to Blankets Creek Mountain Bike Trails, featuring logos of the Cherokee County Recreation and Parks Agency and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The background includes greenery and trees.
Community
Singletracks Meet Up: Blankets Creek Saturday @ 10am
May 25, 2011
  7
A close-up, black-and-white portrait of a man wearing a helmet, gazing thoughtfully into the distance. His expression is focused, highlighting his features such as freckles and the contours of his face. A blurred natural background is slightly visible behind him.
Culture
Help Support MTB Documentary: Type1Rider
May 24, 2011
  1
A mountain biker in protective gear jumps off a dirt ramp in a forested area, surrounded by tall pine trees and lush greenery. The trail is visible in the background, and a trail marker is partially visible near the ramp.
Community
Melting Snow = DH Season! Resort Opening Dates
May 20, 2011
  6
Image depicting a cycling event with a focus on competitive spirit. In the foreground, a cyclist in a red jersey with a logo sits on a chair, while in the background, another cyclist rides on a trail. The image features bold graphics with the text "UNRIVALED" and mentions top finishes at an event in a bold, modern layout.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
SRAM IPO: Good Investment?
May 13, 2011
  4
A calendar page for May, featuring a vibrant photograph of a cyclist performing a trick on a wooden ramp in a forest setting. The image captures a dynamic moment, with sunlight filtering through the trees. The calendar includes the days of the month and is placed on a wooden surface.
Community
National Bike Month: Festivals and Contests
May 13, 2011
  5
A sign indicating that a trail is closed for revegetation and erosion control, surrounded by a wooded area with fallen branches and some snow on the ground.
Mountain Bike Trails
Pro Mountain Biker Sentenced to 3 Days in Jail for Riding Illegal Boulder Trail
May 3, 2011
  13
Three male mountain bikers stand on a podium with their arms raised in celebration. They are wearing colorful cycling jerseys and shorts. The background features a large banner with various sponsors and logos, and the setting is under a wooden structure, likely a pavilion or shelter.
Community
Singletracks Sponsored MTB Race Team: Faster Mustache
May 3, 2011
  3
A colorful cycling jersey featuring a green and white geometric design with black accents and branding on the sleeves.
Culture
Pre-order Your Singletracks Jersey
Apr 21, 2011
  3
A group of volunteers working on a wooded trail, clearing debris and leveling the ground. The scene shows a person using a tool on the trail, surrounded by trees with autumn leaves. Other volunteers can be seen in the background, engaged in similar activities. The area is rocky and covered with fallen leaves, reflecting a peaceful outdoor setting.
Mountain Bike Trails
Singletracks Trail Work Day @ Lake Hartwell (GA): Sat. April 23, 2011
Apr 18, 2011
  2
Close-up view of a bicycle's rear brake system, featuring a black brake caliper marked with "XO," connected to a disc brake rotor and surrounding components. The background is blurred, highlighting the intricate details of the brake assembly.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
MTB Review: 2011 Avid X0 Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Apr 11, 2011
  3
Five mountain bikers standing on a trail, looking out over a scenic landscape of mountains, green forests, and a blue sky with fluffy clouds. The bikers are wearing helmets and cycling gear, with their bikes positioned beside them. Snow-capped peaks are visible in the distance.
Culture
Sacred Rides MTB Trail Review Contest Winners
Apr 4, 2011
  6
Close-up of a bicycle wheel hub and disc brake, showing the intricate details of the spokes and metallic components, with dirt and leaves in the background, suggesting outdoor use.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Easton Haven 29er Wheelset Review
Apr 4, 2011
  3
An X-ray image of a human forearm showing the bones of the radius and ulna. The image displays the skeletal structure with a dark background.
Culture
Mountain Biking: Full Restriction
Apr 1, 2011
  22
A mountain biking race taking place in a wooded area, featuring two riders in action. One cyclist, wearing a red and white jersey and a red helmet, is leading the way, while another cyclist in a blue jersey trails closely behind. In the background, an orange tent and spectators can be seen amidst the trees.
Culture
MTB Film Review: The Potential Inside
Mar 31, 2011
  2
A person in an orange jacket is packing a backpack outside a cabin surrounded by tall pine trees and open grassland, with a mountainous landscape in the background.
Culture
Planning Your Summer MTB Adventures
Mar 24, 2011
  3
Two mountain bikers riding on a winding dirt trail through a dry, hilly landscape. The terrain is rocky with patches of grass, and distant mountains are visible in the background under a cloudy sky.
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain Bike Ride Report: Olleros Trail, Peru
Mar 17, 2011
  8
Three scenic images of a lakeside recreational area. The first image shows a gravel area surrounded by trees, the second features a boat ramp and dock with tranquil green water, and the third captures a peaceful lakeside path lined with trees.
Mountain Bike Trails
New Bike Trails at Paynes Creek on Lake Hartwell (GA) Opening in April - With Your Help
Mar 17, 2011
  3
Five mountain bikers, standing side by side on a trail, gaze out at a panoramic view of snow-capped mountains and lush green forests under a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. They are wearing helmets and biking gear, with their bikes parked next to them.
Mountain Bike Trails
Win a BC Bike Trip: Sacred Rides Trail Review Contest on Singletracks
Mar 14, 2011
  3
Close-up view of a black bicycle rear derailleur mounted on a frame, with a chain running through it. The background features brown leaves, indicating an outdoor setting.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
SRAM X0 2x10 MTB Drivetrain: Part II
Mar 9, 2011
  4
A mountain biker, covered in mud, navigates a rocky, wooded trail during a rainy day. The cyclist wears a helmet and a gray jacket, with a race number visible on the bike. Surrounding trees are bare, and wet leaves cover the ground.
Community
Bikes & Belt Buckles: Snake Creek Gap Time Trial #3
Mar 8, 2011
  6
A panoramic view of a rugged, arid landscape showcasing layered hills and valleys with reddish-brown earth. A narrow dirt path meanders along the top of a ridge, leading into the distance under a clear blue sky. Mountain ranges are visible on the horizon.
Culture
New BLM Wild Lands Guidance May Affect MTB Trails
Mar 3, 2011
  6
A black and blue bicycle helmet is placed next to a pair of gloves featuring a similar design with bright yellow accents. In the background, there is a collection of books on biking. A package labeled "Crank Protection" is also visible, featuring a design layout.
Culture
Giro and Crankskins February Contest Winners
Mar 3, 2011
  1
A screenshot of an online review page featuring three sections: "Big Creek Reviews," "Central Park Reviews," and "Chicopee Woods Reviews." Each section includes a star rating, a brief review of the respective trails, and an update on their status (open, closed, or in need of work). The reviews highlight user experiences and provide trail condition insights.
Mountain Bike Trails
Singletracks Trail Status & Reviews Widget
Mar 1, 2011
  4
A mountain biker pushing their bicycle uphill on a rocky trail, surrounded by mountains and clear blue skies.
Community
Epic MTB Race in the Murder Capital of the World: Q&A with Bicycling Magazine
Feb 25, 2011
  1
Three men stand beside a small aircraft on a salt flat, each holding a bicycle. The men are casually dressed, with two wearing dark shirts and one in a light blue shirt. The aircraft has a red and white design, and the backdrop features a clear blue sky and distant mountains.
Mountain Bike Trails
Glacier Mountain Biking in Alaska
Feb 24, 2011
  2
A close-up view of a metal bicycle cassette, featuring multiple gear sprockets stacked in a circular arrangement. The background includes various bicycle-related stickers and packaging.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
SRAM X0 2x10 MTB Drivetrain Review: Part I
Feb 21, 2011
  7
A mountain biker navigating a winding, rocky trail surrounded by dense fog. The path curves sharply along a rugged landscape, illustrating the challenging terrain of the ride.
Community
MTB News: 2012 Olympic Course, DH Race Benefits Kids in Africa, and More
Feb 17, 2011
  3
Image displaying a background gradient with the text "No Photo" prominently centered.
Culture
Singletracks February Updates: Check-ins, Merch, and MTB Tours
Feb 14, 2011
  4
A mountain bike with a race number 726 attached is parked on a gravel surface. The bike is covered in mud, indicating recent use in a rugged outdoor environment. In the background, a gray vehicle is partially visible amidst green trees.
Mountain Bike Trails
Day 29: Snake Creek Gap TT #2
Feb 7, 2011
  9
A tranquil forest scene with bare trees and a carpet of fallen leaves covering the ground. The path meanders gently through the woods, surrounded by tall trees with sparse foliage, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trail 29: The Trails at the Beach
Feb 4, 2011
  3
A narrow dirt trail winding through a forest of tall pine trees, with a ground covered in reddish-brown pine needles.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trail 28: The Secret Trail
Feb 4, 2011
  5
A mountain bike parked beside a narrow dirt trail winding through a forest with bare trees and autumn leaves scattered on the ground.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trails 25-27: Inside the Atlanta Perimeter
Feb 3, 2011
  3
Close-up view of a muddy bicycle drivetrain, featuring a dirty chain, crankset, and rear wheel. The frame shows significant buildup of mud, indicating recent use in off-road conditions.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Gearing Up for 29 Trails in 29 Days
Feb 3, 2011
  3
A mountain bike resting on a path next to a sign that displays the "Rules of the Trail," set in a wooded area with bare trees and a misty atmosphere. The ground is covered with brown leaves and the path is a mix of dirt and paved sections.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trail 24: Arabia Mountain PATH
Feb 2, 2011
  7
A dirt path winding through a forest with leaf-covered ground, leading up a small hill. Tall trees with bare branches line the path, creating a serene and natural atmosphere.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trails 22 & 23: Gainesville College and Chicopee Woods
Feb 2, 2011
  2
A group of mountain bikers resting in a wooded area. One cyclist is sitting on a bench near the trail, while three others stand next to their bikes, discussing their route. The scene is surrounded by tall trees and a natural forest floor.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trails 20 & 21: RAMBO Mountain Bike Trails
Feb 1, 2011
  4
A rusty bicycle lying on the sandy bank of a river, with trees and a rocky shore in the background. The water is clear and calm, reflecting the surrounding scenery. The environment appears tranquil and somewhat secluded.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trail 19: Dawson Forest
Feb 1, 2011
  3
A mountain bike leaning against a weathered wooden wall, featuring a mix of colors including silver and green. The bike's tires are muddy, suggesting recent use in outdoor conditions. Fallen leaves and debris are scattered around the base of the bike.
Culture
Trails 17 & 18: Turner Lake & Heritage Park
Jan 31, 2011
  3
A green sign welcoming visitors to the 1996 Olympic Mountain Bike Course, with instructions stating that the trail is maintained by volunteers from the Southern Off Road Bicycle Association. The sign also indicates that all riders must wear helmets beyond a certain point and that the trail is one direction only, instructing visitors to follow arrows. In the background, there is an open field and trees under a clear blue sky.
Mountain Bike Trails
Trail 16: 1996 Olympic MTB Course
Jan 31, 2011
  7
Two mountain bikers racing on a dirt trail surrounded by pine trees. The rider in the foreground is wearing a blue and white jersey and is making a hand gesture, while the second rider in the background wears a black and blue jersey. The terrain is dusted with a sandy texture and the sky has a mix of clouds.
Community
Will the Leadville Trail 100 Become the MTB Version of the Boston Marathon?
Jan 28, 2011
  6
A winding dirt trail covered in fallen leaves leads through a forest of tall trees, with a wooden bicycle ramp extending over a drop-off on the left side. A mountain bike is leaning against the hill next to the ramp, and the scene is illuminated by soft, natural light filtering through the trees.
Mountain Bike Trails
Speeding the MTB Trails of Talladega National Forest
Jan 28, 2011
  6