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 image of a person's hand using a microfiber cleaning cloth on a bright blue bicycle frame. In the background, a wooden fence and a section of the bike's tire are visible. The cloth has a label from the brand Muc-Off.
  1
A photographer capturing images of a yellow mountain bike positioned on lush green grass, surrounded by dense foliage and colorful flowers. The photographer, wearing a black shirt and shorts, is crouched down with a camera aimed at the bike.
  1
A wooden trail sign in a natural setting, indicating the directions to "Almond Butter to Ute Valley Bike Trails" and "BeaUteiful Loop." The sign features symbols for hiking and biking, with paths winding through grassy terrain and shrubs.
  1
A bright blue mountain bike is positioned in a grassy area surrounded by trees. The bike features a black front fork and brown tires, with a sleek design that highlights its durability for off-road riding. The background showcases a natural setting with green pine trees and golden grass under a clear sky.
  7
A mountain biker performing a jump on a rocky terrain with a steep, colorful cliff in the background. The image features earthy tones and rugged landscape. An abstract signal icon is overlaid in the center.
Close-up of a mountain bike's front fork and tire, featuring the "Maxxis" logo on the tire sidewall, set against a blurred natural background. The image highlights the tire tread pattern and the bike's suspension components.
  1
A large crowd of people seated on grass, gathered at an outdoor event in a forested area. A colorful tent is visible in the background, and a vehicle can be seen further back. The image has a graphic overlay representing sound waves, suggesting a musical or performance event.
A group of people working together outdoors in a forested area, with trees in the background and brown leaves scattered on the ground. They are using tools to dig and maintain a trail, focused on their task under a clear blue sky.
  5
A bookshelf filled with various books, featuring a large overlay of a sound or broadcast symbol in the center.
A mountain biker in a red helmet and sunglasses performs a jump on a dirt trail surrounded by lush green trees. The biker is smiling and wearing a backpack, capturing a moment of excitement in the outdoors.
  19
A digital torque wrench with a gray and yellow handle, lying on a wooden surface. The display shows a reading of "2000." The wrench features a ratchet head at one end and buttons for adjusting settings.
  7
A black CamelBak hydration pack resting on dry leaves and twigs, featuring a zippered pocket and a side compartment designed to hold a water bottle.
Close-up view of a bright red bicycle frame with the text "BOOST 141" printed on the crossbar, featuring a rear wheel with visible gears and a chain against a dark background.
  8
A silhouette of a mountain biker performing a jump against a colorful sunset sky, with a circular graphic overlay representing a wireless signal.
A rustic wooden bridge crosses a natural clearing in a dense forest, surrounded by tall trees and lush green foliage, leading into the wilderness.
  4
A black mountain bike displayed on a bed of fallen leaves in a forest setting, with green trees and foliage in the background. The bike features thick tires and a sturdy frame, highlighting its off-road capabilities.
  4
A serene landscape featuring tall, vibrant trees with golden leaves against a clear blue sky. The foreground includes lush greenery and bushes, creating a rich contrast with the autumn colors.
  6
A close-up view of green pine branches resting on a textured rock surface, with a circular audio symbol overlaid in the center.
A collection of car cleaning supplies arranged in a black plastic storage container. The items include a spray bottle with a black and pink nozzle, a bottle of car shampoo, a green spray bottle, a pink sponge, brushes with black bristles, and a grey microfiber towel. The background shows a textured surface with water spots.
A photographer kneels on rocky terrain, using a video camera mounted on a tripod to capture the panoramic view of a mountainous landscape under a clear blue sky.
  1
A compact multi-tool featuring various wrenches and screwdrivers, with a green logo, resting on a textured concrete surface.
A mountain bike is parked on a grassy area surrounded by lush green foliage. The bike features a sleek black frame with teal accents, thick tires designed for rugged terrain, and a suspension system. Fallen leaves scattered on the ground add a touch of autumn to the scene.
  4
A mountain biker falls onto the rocky trail while attempting a downhill ride, with spectators in the background cheering and observing. The ocean can be seen in the distance under a clear sky. Nearby, a person reaches out to assist the fallen rider. Blue safety tape marks the course path.
  11
A person riding a mountain bike over rocky terrain with greenery and a clear blue sky in the background. The rider is smiling, wearing a helmet and vibrant cycling attire.
A close-up of a black glove laid out flat on a grassy surface, featuring the embossed text "NO ORDINARY LIFE" in vibrant turquoise. The glove has a snug fit and a textured design, with a label visible at the wrist.
  23
A vibrant display of mountain bikes in a bicycle shop, featuring a variety of colors including pink, green, and black, with accessories and gear visible in the background. The bikes are arranged on a sales floor with wooden accents and hanging bicycle wheels.
  3
A vibrant bicycle shop interior featuring various types of bicycles on display. The walls are adorned with colorful posters and murals, while shelves showcase bike accessories, including tires and grips. A mix of road and mountain bikes in different colors line the floor, creating an inviting atmosphere for cycling enthusiasts.
  2
A vibrant mountain bike in bright yellow and teal, parked on rocky terrain near a lake, with majestic snow-capped mountains in the background under a cloudy sky.
  8
Close-up of a mountain bike's rear drivetrain, featuring a maroon frame, silver cassette, and black derailleur, with droplets of water on the components. The bike is positioned near a tree in a natural setting, suggesting a wet environment.
  4
Close-up of a blue gravel bike with yellow lettering, featuring a sleek frame and a mounted bag on the top tube. The background shows a natural setting with greenery, highlighting the bike's suitability for outdoor adventures.
  3
Close-up view of a mountain bike tire and suspension system on a grassy trail, with a white daisy flower in the foreground. The bike features a turquoise frame and has a rugged tire, indicating it's designed for off-road use.
  1
A close-up of a cyclist's foot in a shoe clipped into a bike pedal, accompanied by a light blue bicycle with prominent branding. A water bottle labeled "SPONSER" is visible near the bike frame, with foliage in the background.
  3
A mountain biker performs a jump off a rocky ledge, soaring above a scenic landscape filled with trees and rolling hills. Another biker navigates a sandy slope nearby, showcasing the thrilling nature of downhill mountain biking. The sky is overcast, adding a dramatic element to the outdoor action scene.
  5
A cyclist pauses on a winding mountain road, surrounded by lush green grass and colorful wildflowers. Dressed in cycling attire, wearing sunglasses and a helmet, they smile while resting on their bike, which is equipped with luggage. Tall trees and majestic mountains form a scenic backdrop under a clear blue sky.
A close-up view of a bicycle handlebar featuring a mounted light and a gray handlebar bag secured with straps. The grip displays the brand "Ultegra," and a hand is visible holding the grip. In the background, blurred figures of cyclists are present, with a natural setting of trees and dirt ground.
  1
Mountain bike parked on a rocky trail surrounded by green foliage and towering pine trees under a blue sky. The bike features a sleek green frame, thick tires, and an adjustable seat, making it ideal for off-road adventures.
  10
Close-up of a white cycling shoe being adjusted, featuring a unique dial closure system. The shoe displays a sleek design with textured patterns and ventilation holes, resting on a rocky surface. A hand is holding one of the dials, indicating preparation for use.
A person riding a mountain bike on a dirt trail through a lush, green forest. The rider is wearing a bright helmet, sunglasses, and biking gear, captured mid-jump with dirt flying from the bike tires. A large graphic symbol representing sound waves is overlaid in the center of the image.
  2
Interior view of a bicycle shop featuring a man at a wooden counter using a computer. The walls are adorned with bicycles hanging from the ceiling and shelves stocked with cycling accessories and gear. A decorative poster promoting cycling decorates the entrance area, while the floor has a patterned tile design. The shop has a warm, inviting ambiance with good lighting.
  19
  3
A person's hand holding a small object over the opening of a transparent water bottle, positioned on a moss-covered rock in a natural outdoor setting with green foliage in the background.
  5
Close-up of a bicycle frame featuring a water bottle cage and storage compartment. The frame is dark gray with the word "FUEL" printed on it, and the storage compartment contains a black item with an orange strap labeled "BONTRAGER." The background includes green foliage and dirt, indicating an outdoor environment.
  13
A mountain biker navigating a rocky trail in a dense forest, with tall trees surrounding the path and sunlight filtering through the foliage. The rider leans forward on their bike, showing agility as they maneuver over a series of large stones. Dust kicks up behind the bike, indicating speed and excitement.
A narrow dirt path winding through a lush forest, flanked by tall trees and a large moss-covered rock. The ground is rich with roots and ferns, creating a natural, serene atmosphere.
A person riding a mountain bike on a narrow trail surrounded by lush green trees, sunlight filtering through the foliage. An abstract graphic symbol is overlaid on the image, resembling sound waves or wireless signals.
A child riding a mountain bike along a dirt trail surrounded by trees in a lush, green forest. The boy is wearing a blue helmet and a blue and green cycling shirt, smiling as he navigates the winding path. Sunlight filters through the leaves, casting dappled shadows on the ground.
  15
A close-up view of a person's side pocket, showcasing a can of drink, a Honey Stinger chocolate mint snack pack, and a small device. The background features a brick wall, adding texture to the image. The clothing includes a dark-colored fabric with a logo visible on the pocket.
A panoramic view of a lush green landscape with trees and dense foliage in the foreground, leading down to a serene body of water in the distance, surrounded by mountains. The sky is partly cloudy, creating a bright and inviting atmosphere.