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 the back panel of a backpack featuring a geometric honeycomb design in black and light blue. The image showcases the adjustable straps and cushioning details, highlighting its ergonomic design. The backpack is suspended against a black background.
  2
  1
Close-up view of a black bicycle component featuring the "WREN" logo, which includes an eagle design, on a shiny surface. The component is part of a bicycle fork or suspension system, laid on a light background.
  1
An outdoor view of the Interbike event entrance, featuring a large metal sculpture with the logo "iB" and the word "Interbike" prominently displayed. People are seen walking along the walkway beneath a glass-covered structure, and there are event booths and displays in the vicinity.
  3
Close-up of an electric bicycle handlebar control, featuring a button with a "light" icon and a small indicator light. The handlebar has a dark, textured grip, and is part of a modern bicycle design.
A close-up image of a person adjusting the hem of their black athletic leggings while outdoors, with green foliage in the background. The individual is wearing a green top and appears to be in a natural setting.
  3
A GoPro action camera on a dark background, featuring a digital display showing recording settings and a countdown timer. The camera has a prominent lens and a red indicator light.
  2
  8
Alt text: A gray HydroPak hydration reservoir mounted on a wooden surface, featuring a clear hose attached. The reservoir includes measurement markings, a max fill line, and instructions for use, including "Fold Towards You" and "Slide to Seal."
  4
Alt text: Close-up of two orange bicycle handlebar grips with spiral patterns, mounted on a display board. The grips feature the brand name "VELO" at the bottom. Two black rubber end caps are attached between the grips.
  1
A red and orange Osprey pack with a textured design, featuring a zippered compartment on top and a water tube attached to the side, displayed on a stand against a light background.
  11
  5
A person wearing a white bicycle helmet and dark sunglasses sits against a tree in a lush green forest. They are dressed in a blue long-sleeve shirt and appear to be in a moment of contemplation or rest. The background features trees and greenery, creating a natural, serene atmosphere.
  2
  2
  3
A close-up view of a metal bicycle frame being crafted, showing polished and welded joints. In the background, a drill press and a toolbox with multiple drawers are visible, along with various tools hanging on the wall. A caution sign about eye protection is also seen. The image includes a graphic element resembling sound waves over the frame.
  2
A narrow dirt path winding through lush green grass and vegetation, surrounded by tall grasses and trees in a sunny forested area.
  10
  3
  2
Close-up of a black and gray skate-style shoe with red accents, featuring a perforated upper design. The shoe is positioned above a bike pedal on a grassy background, suggesting an outdoor biking environment.
  8
  2
  4
A mountain biker navigating through a dark wooded trail, illuminated by a headlamp, with lush green foliage along the path and a tree nearby.
  12
A person wearing a helmet and sunglasses is smiling and posing with a large sculpture made of beer cans, resembling horns, decorated with a Canadian flag. In the background, a blurred audience and mountain biking gear are visible, suggesting a festive outdoor event.
  8
A black mountain bike is positioned on a gravel path surrounded by green grass and trees, with a clear blue sky and mountains in the background. The bike features large tires and a sleek frame design.
  3
Three mountain bikers riding on a dirt trail surrounded by lush green trees and hills under a blue sky. The backdrop features a mountainous landscape with slopes covered in vegetation, indicating a scenic outdoor environment.
  3
A young boy stands beside a bicycle in a grassy yard, wearing a patterned shirt and shorts. The background features a modest house and greenery, with sunlight illuminating the scene. The bicycle has a black bag attached to its side.
  1
A mountain biker wearing a helmet and a checkered shirt is standing on a rocky outcrop surrounded by green vegetation and wildflowers, with a mountainous landscape in the background under a cloudy sky.
  2
  2
  3
  1
Two mountain bikers competing in a race, with one rider in the foreground smiling and focused as he pedals on a dirt path. The other rider is slightly behind him, leaning forward in an athletic position. A crowd watches in the background, with tents and banners visible, indicating a lively event atmosphere.
  3
Close-up image of a blue bicycle frame, highlighting the suspension system and components. The frame features markings indicating "100 mm ACTIVE TRAVEL" and adjustment settings labeled "MAX 10 mm." The visible shock absorber has branding from Fox, showcasing its design and mechanisms amidst a natural green background of grass and trees.
  2
A green and black Trek mountain bike is parked on a dirt path surrounded by tall grass and wildflowers, with trees in the background under a blue sky. The bike features thick tires and a sporty design, emphasizing its suitability for off-road cycling.
  16
A mountain bike resting on rocky terrain surrounded by tall grass and bushes, with a clear blue sky overhead and a power tower in the background. The bike features a vibrant turquoise and black design.
A person riding a mountain bike on a dirt trail, kicking up dust as they navigate through a wooded area. The image has a vintage feel, with trees and foliage in the background, and a graphic symbol indicating motion overlaying the scene.
  1