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
 
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Community
New Ultra Mountain Bike Race in Ohio
Jun 5, 2008
Text logo for "CHAIN LOVE," featuring bold black letters and a red, dripping "LOVE" against a textured dark background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Way to save: Mountain bike gear deals
Jun 4, 2008
  1
Culture
Dangerous start to MTB season
Jun 3, 2008
  1
A tranquil forest pathway winding through lush green trees, with patches of fallen leaves on the ground and a wooden bridge visible in the background.
Mountain Bike Trails
Epic Alabama mountain bike trail in the making
Jun 3, 2008
A soldier in camouflage clothing riding a green bicycle through a shallow stream, splashing water as they navigate the rocky terrain in a wooded area.
Culture
Mountain bike cops in California
Jun 2, 2008
  1
A close-up view of a mountain bicycle with a uniquely designed tire that features an inner tube coiled around itself. The bike frame is blue, and the wheel is shown on a black asphalt surface, highlighting the innovative tire design.
Culture
Mountain bike emergency repairs
May 30, 2008
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Culture
USA Cycling announces UCI worlds MTB team
May 30, 2008
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Mountain Bike Trails
This must be one hell of a mountain bike track!
May 29, 2008
  1
A bicycle frame made of shiny metal tubing is displayed on a workbench in a workshop. The frame is in a triangular shape, showcasing the welding joints. Various tools and equipment are scattered around, including gloves and a welding machine, with a closed door and storage area visible in the background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
29ers from a female perspective
May 28, 2008
  2
Mountain Bike Trails
Georgia mountain bike trail report
May 27, 2008
A bike mount displaying three different mobile devices, including GPS navigation and smartphones, showcasing various maps and interfaces. The mount is attached to a handlebar, highlighting its functionality for navigation on bicycles.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mountain bike gadgets and tech
May 23, 2008
  1
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Culture
Mountain biking in the news
May 21, 2008
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Mountain Bikes and Gear
New ways to GPS with your mountain bike
May 20, 2008
Culture
MTB documentary about blind DH racer
May 15, 2008
  1
A long-sleeve athletic shirt featuring a white base color with black accents and a red logo. The shirt has a modern design with a high neckline and contrasting panels on the sleeves and sides, suitable for sports or outdoor activities.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
High tech MTB crash protection & tips for n00bs
May 14, 2008
Close-up image of a small fan mounted on a bike handlebar, featuring a black casing and a four-blade propeller, designed to provide cooling airflow while riding.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Charge your GPS or iPod on the trail
May 13, 2008
Culture
Mountain Bike Rider article angers villagers
May 12, 2008
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Garmin Edge 605 Mountain Bike Review
May 9, 2008
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Culture
MTB News Round Up: May 8, 2008
May 8, 2008
A creative bike rack designed to resemble a bull, with a red bull head and black legs. Several bicycles are parked beside it on a sidewalk, with traffic cones and a sign indicating "DO NOT ENTER" visible in the background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mod your mountain bike for commuting
May 7, 2008
Community
Seasons MTB movie screening in Atlanta @ Sweetwater on Monday!
May 7, 2008
A wooden footbridge winding through a lush, green forest, surrounded by tall trees and underbrush. The path has a rustic design, with some sections elevated and others connecting through the natural landscape.
Culture
Creative MTB trail features
May 6, 2008
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Culture
Betrayal? A mountain biker argues against trail access
May 5, 2008
  1
Garmin Edge 605 GPS device displaying a map with speed and heading information.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mountain bike trail maps on your Garmin Edge 605 / 705 GPS
May 2, 2008
A green plastic tray with a curved edge and a handle, designed for carrying or organizing small items. The tray has a smooth surface and a contoured bottom for stability.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
MTB Wallet: The JIMI
May 2, 2008
  1
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Mountain bike trail tech
May 1, 2008
  1
A cyclist in a racing jersey with the number 59 is falling off their bike while riding on a snowy slope. Snow is flying up around them as the bike flips over. In the background, there are snow-covered hills and a clear blue sky. Red and white tape is visible marking the course.
Culture
V-brakes and snow don't mix
Apr 30, 2008
A mountain biker in mid-air performs a jump over a rugged canyon, with spectators watching from both sides. The scene is set in a natural landscape featuring green hills in the background. At the top of the image, there is a memorial text honoring Mark Reynolds, listing his birth and death dates.
Culture
Mark Arthur Reynolds Memorial Fund and Race Event
Apr 30, 2008
A mountain biker is upside down, falling off their bike while attempting a trick on a sandy slope. The rider is wearing a helmet, gloves, and protective gear. A caution tape line is visible in the background.
Culture
Mountain bikers: Don't push your limits this spring (yet)
Apr 29, 2008
  2
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Bike price inflation?
Apr 28, 2008
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Electric mountain bike
Apr 25, 2008
  2
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Community
Western MTB Adventures: From Utah to South Dakota
Apr 24, 2008
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Culture
Lifestyles of the fast and fearless: Pro mountain bikers
Apr 24, 2008
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Mountain Bike Trails
Australia cracks down on illegal mountain bike trails
Apr 23, 2008
Community
Spring mountain bike adventures: Fruita
Apr 23, 2008
Culture
San Jose mountain bike innovator dies at Sea Otter Classic
Apr 22, 2008
  2
Mountain Bikes and Gear
West Coast MTB News: Single speed bikes and Urban trails
Apr 18, 2008
  1
Black t-shirt featuring a logo design inspired by the NBA logo, depicting a silhouette of a BMX rider, with red and blue colors on either side of the figure.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
New MTB Lifestyle Clothing Line: Division 26
Apr 17, 2008
Culture
Spring is here, now it's not
Apr 15, 2008
Community
Bike Fest Jump Jam 2008: Santa Cruz, CA
Apr 15, 2008
Community
Collective Movie Premier: Seasons (plus beer!)
Apr 14, 2008
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Garmin Edge 705: Finally!
Apr 11, 2008
Two mountain bikers are seen in mid-air as they jump over a barrier during a cycling event. In the background, a grassy landscape stretches out under a partly cloudy sky, with spectators watching from the side. A vehicle is parked along a nearby road.
Community
Sea Otter Classic
Apr 11, 2008
  1
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Fox Mid Ranger Shorts Review
Apr 10, 2008
The first annual Wayne Ultra Mountain Bike Race <a href="http://www.mariettaregister.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=380&Itemid=30">will be held</a> in the Wayne National Forest near Marietta in October of this year. Organizers have been gunning for a mountain bike event in the forest for years and have put in more than 800 volunteer hours getting the trails ready. The long course at the Wayne Ultra is 42 miles which begs the question: How long is an "ultra" mountain bike race? Ultra-marathons are generally running races longer than 26.2 miles (the internationally recognized marathon distance) but there isn't really an official mountain bike race length since the Greeks didn't have knobby tires as far as I know. The National Ultra MTB Endurance Series (<a href="http://www.usmtb100.com/">NUE</a>) consists of only 100-mile mountain bike races - a pretty intimidating distance for most to complete, let alone race. Definitely ultra, but I'd argue that 90 miles is pretty ultra as well. Of course a 42 mile trail race is pretty epic, though I'm still not sure if it's "ultra."  Where do you draw the line? What's the longest you've ridden your mountain bike off road?
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Biking or running? How about a little of both
Apr 7, 2008
Mountain Bikes and Gear
MTB vs. Road Bike Helmets: What's the difference?
Apr 4, 2008
  1
Alt tag: "A map showing a trail outline in red, located near Lake Lafayette and Tom Brown Park, with surrounding geographical features labeled."
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain bike trails too often relegated to crap holes
Apr 3, 2008
  1
Culture
April MTB News Roundup
Apr 2, 2008