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
 
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
Culture
Mountain biking in the news
May 21, 2008
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
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
Cover of the magazine "MBR" (Mountain Bike Rider) featuring a mountain biker in green apparel riding on a rocky trail. The cover includes text highlighting features such as "Skill School," "Best Trail Centres," and "Budget Bouncers."
Culture
Mountain Bike Rider article angers villagers
May 12, 2008
A Garmin Edge 605 GPS device displaying a map screen with speed reading of 29.6 mph and heading direction marked as north. The device has a gray casing and buttons for navigation.
GPS
Garmin Edge 605 Mountain Bike Review
May 9, 2008
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
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
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
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
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Bike price inflation?
Apr 28, 2008
Silver mountain bike with thick tires and front suspension, positioned against a dark background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Electric mountain bike
Apr 25, 2008
  2
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
Community
Western MTB Adventures: From Utah to South Dakota
Apr 24, 2008
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
Culture
Lifestyles of the fast and fearless: Pro mountain bikers
Apr 24, 2008
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
Mountain Bike Trails
Australia cracks down on illegal mountain bike trails
Apr 23, 2008
Black and red sock featuring the text "Fruita Fat Tire Festival" and the US Bank logo, along with a website URL for Fruita Mountain Bike.
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
Black Garmin Edge 705 cycling GPS device displaying speed and heart rate data on a colorful map interface.
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
A pair of black cargo shorts featuring a drawstring waistband and multiple pockets on the sides, designed for comfort and utility.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Fox Mid Ranger Shorts Review
Apr 10, 2008
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Biking or running? How about a little of both
Apr 7, 2008
A red and silver bicycle helmet with aerodynamic design and multiple ventilation slots. The helmet features the brand name "Giro" prominently displayed.
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
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Apple announces iBike
Apr 1, 2008
  3
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
Culture
Mountain bike adventure, Bolivia
Mar 31, 2008
  1
Culture
Buffalo soldiers: The original off-road bikers
Mar 28, 2008
  3
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
Mountain Bike Trails
Montana mountain bike trails at risk
Mar 27, 2008
  1
A mountain biker in a red outfit jumps off a steep dirt ramp, suspended mid-air against a backdrop of blue skies and fluffy clouds. Trees and rocky terrain are visible in the surrounding landscape.
Mountain Bike Trails
The Florida mountain bike scene
Mar 26, 2008
  1
<ul> <li>CNN.com has <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2008/LIVING/wayoflife/05/20/women.bicycling/">an article</a> on women's liberation and how things really got started with the bicycle back in the 19th century. The article mentions Jacquie Phelan, founder of the Women's Mountain Bike and Tea Society (WOMBATS) and her fight for equality in the MTB scene. Jacquie says bikes should cost less for women as well given that on average they earn 59 cents for every dollar men earn.</li> <li>Shimano reported double digit increases in worldwide sales last quarter but oddly the North American market saw a 7% DECLINE in sales. I can't see this lasting into this quarter, especially with gas prices as high as they are and refund checks making their way to Americans' bank accounts. Or could it be that SRAM is eating Shimano's lunch in North America?</li> <li><a href="http://www.dirtragmag.com/web/article.php?ID=1158&category2=freshdirt">Dirt Rag reports</a> that the Southeast's first lift assisted mountain bike trails are set to open at the end of this month at Breakaway resort just north of Asheville, NC. The mountain bike park dubbed '26 West' will boast 7 trails ranging from beginner to expert and tickets will set you back $24 for a day of unlimited riding. Sounds sweet but for some reason I thought the other North Carolina ski resorts were doing this already...</li> </ul>
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain Biking Arkansas
Mar 25, 2008
A mountain bike resting on a rock, overlooking a scenic view of rolling hills and a cloudy sky. The foreground features tall grass and foliage, while the background shows layers of blue mountains fading into the distance.
Culture
Georgia mountain bike news
Mar 21, 2008
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain bike clubs
Mar 20, 2008
A Garmin Forerunner 205 GPS running watch features a rectangular display with a graph and various buttons on the side. The watch has a black and purple design and a durable strap suitable for athletic use.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Garmin Forerunner 205 Review
Mar 19, 2008
Graphic advertisement for the Mountain Bike Summit held from May 7-9, 2008, at Stowe Mountain Resort in Vermont. The image includes workshop topics such as program development, sustainable trail construction, and community trail development. Registration details are included along with logos of the presenting organizations.
Community
Vermont Mountain Bike Summit
Mar 18, 2008
  1
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain biking Macon
Mar 18, 2008