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
 
Map of the Tour Divide route from Banff, Alberta, in Canada, to Antelope Wells, New Mexico, in the United States. The map highlights key waypoints along the cycling route. It features a mountainous backdrop and includes state borders, major cities, and terrain details.
Community
Tour Divide: World's Longest MTB Race Happening Now
Jun 23, 2009
Screenshot of the Singletracks website, featuring a map of mountain bike trails in the United States. The map includes various markers indicating trail locations, with options for users to search by state or zip code. The page also highlights popular mountain biking locations and rankings.
Mountain Bike Trails
New MTB Trailhead Map
Jun 23, 2009
  7
A banner featuring the logo of Iron Horse Bicycle Company, alongside a cyclist performing a jump on a green and black bicycle against a dark background.
Culture
Want To Buy a Mountain Bike (Company)?
Jun 19, 2009
  2
A scenic view of a forest trail winding through tall green pine trees, with distant mountains visible under a partly cloudy sky. The path is sandy, leading deeper into the lush greenery.
Culture
MTB News, June 18, 2009: Drug Busts and Colorado Trails
Jun 18, 2009
  5
A bulletin board displaying various colorful wristbands for sale, each labeled with a price of $5. The board is organized by color, including red, pink, blue, green, and black wristbands, and features a sign that reads "HONOR SYSTEM." There is a blue payment box attached to the board. The setting appears to be outdoors, surrounded by greenery.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Coming to a trailhead near you: Self service bike parts
Jun 17, 2009
  1
A dense forest scene featuring a pathway leading deeper into the woods. In the foreground, a wooden pallet is positioned on a fallen log, surrounded by tall green plants and scattered leaves. The background consists of tall trees and lush foliage, contributing to a natural, shaded atmosphere.
Mountain Bike Trails
I Ride Sucky MTB Trails So Others Don't Have To
Jun 16, 2009
  5
A portable travel recorder positioned on a textured, weathered tree stump, surrounded by grass. The device has a glossy black surface with a red button and the label "Travel Recorder X."
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Travel Recorder X from QStarz
Jun 15, 2009
  11
Map showing mountain bike trails in the Augusta area, including Clarks Hill Lake and Sumter National Forest. The map features numbered trail locations, major roads, and notable landmarks for cyclists.
Community
IMBA World Summit 2010: Augusta, GA
Jun 12, 2009
  2
3D representation of a carbon nanotube, showcasing a hexagonal lattice structure on a cylindrical form, set against a dark background.
Mountain Bike Trails
MTB Signs of the Times: Advanced Materials Research and Trail Building Employment
Jun 10, 2009
  4
A cyclist in a racing jersey leans into a turn on a dirt track, surrounded by green hills and a scenic landscape. The rider is wearing a helmet and is focused on navigating the curve, with red poles marking the course.
Community
Best Mountain Bike Event in the World: World Cup @ Ft. William
Jun 9, 2009
  1
A lively gathering under a wooden pavilion, with a diverse group of people engaged in various activities. Some individuals are interacting at a table filled with papers and materials, while others are speaking or moving about the space. The atmosphere is collaborative and energetic, suggesting a community event or workshop.
Mountain Bike Trails
National Trails Day Report
Jun 8, 2009
  7
A winding dirt path through lush green grass, bordered by an arching tree branch overhead. The scene conveys a tranquil and inviting natural setting.
Community
Tomorrow is National Trails Day (June 6, 2009)
Jun 5, 2009
  3
A black and yellow mountain bike parked on a rocky surface, surrounded by trees in a natural outdoor setting. The bike features thick tires suitable for rugged terrain and is positioned on a sunny day.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Blue XC Carbon: A Serious Mountain Bike
Jun 4, 2009
  2
A person with long, curly hair and a headband is intensely pedaling on an exercise bike, showing a passionate expression as they look down at the bike's display. The background is a solid blue color.
Culture
Inaugural World INDOOR Mountain Bike Championships
Jun 3, 2009
  4
Close-up of two white bicycle handlebar grips designed with raised keyboard-like keys. The grips are placed on a patterned brown surface, highlighting their unique design.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Geeky Bar Grips
Jun 3, 2009
  3
A Polar CS600X bike computer and USB connector resting on green grass. The bike computer displays the date and time, with a sleek, rounded design. The USB connector is silver with a red cap, both featuring the Polar logo.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Complete MTB Training Package: The Polar CS600X Cycling Computer
May 29, 2009
  2
A panoramic view of rolling hills and lush greenery under a clear blue sky, with distant mountains and valleys in the background. Sunlight illuminates the landscape, emphasizing the natural beauty of the scenery.
Culture
New MTB Access in Marin County Proposed
May 28, 2009
  3
A red race car with the number 3 prominently displayed on its side, featuring a yellow design on the hood, is speeding around a racetrack. The car has a sleek, aerodynamic shape and is captured in motion, showcasing its high-performance capabilities.
Community
NASCAR Drivers Form 24 Hour MTB Team for Big Bear
May 26, 2009
  5
A black and yellow mountain bike designed for downhill riding, featuring a full suspension system, thick tires, and disc brakes. The bike has a sleek frame and an adjustable seat.
Culture
Mega MTB Recalls: Trek, Cannondale, and Norco
May 20, 2009
Close-up view of a printed circuit board featuring intricate pathways, small components, and two prominent microchips against a vibrant green background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
British Professor Invents a "Better" MTB Shock
May 19, 2009
  8
A man in casual attire stands beside his mountain bike on a gravel path, surrounded by trees. He wears a blue t-shirt and shorts, with flip-flops on his feet. The bike has a race number attached to it, indicating participation in an event. In the background, several parked vehicles are visible.
Community
Sumter Metric Century Report
May 18, 2009
  7
A downhill mountain biker wearing protective gear navigates a winding dirt trail, while spectators watch from the side. The scene captures the excitement of a mountain biking event in a forested area.
Culture
MTB News: Bike Rescue Team, More Women Biking, and Singletracks News
May 14, 2009
  1
A mountain bike resting on a wooden bridge made from a fallen log, surrounded by lush greenery and trees. The peaceful forest setting provides a serene backdrop for outdoor activities.
Oregon
The MTB Capital of the Northwest: Oakridge
May 13, 2009
  2
A winding dirt trail surrounded by lush green foliage and trees in a forest setting. The path is slightly overgrown, with ferns and shrubs along the edges, creating a natural and serene atmosphere.
Mountain Bike Trails
Japanese Gulch Area Faces Development
May 12, 2009
  1
A scenic outdoor setting featuring several mountain bikers crossing a rocky riverbed. On the left, cyclists navigate through shallow water, surrounded by stunning mountains and a clear blue sky. On the right, a biker is lifting their bike over their shoulder while walking through the water.
Community
New Zealand MTB Race
May 11, 2009
  1
A mountain biker navigating rocky terrain in a lush forested area, with misty trees in the background. The image promotes Whistler Mountain Bike Park, featuring the text "Opening Day May 16, 2009."
Culture
Whistler Opens May 16!
May 8, 2009
  1
A busy city street with a large group of cyclists wearing colorful jackets and helmets, riding together as they gather in the foreground. Tall buildings and a "Welcome" sign are visible in the background, indicating an urban environment, on a clear day.
Culture
Bike to Work Week
May 8, 2009
  5
View of a mountain landscape framed by a cave opening, featuring lush green trees and autumn foliage in shades of yellow, set against a cloudy sky.
Community
MTB Race Through a Mine
May 7, 2009
  2
A person hiking along a dirt trail through a lush green meadow, surrounded by tall pine trees and distant mountains under a partly cloudy sky.
Mountain Bike Trails
Bikers and Hikers Should Unite To Protect Wilderness
May 5, 2009
  8
A winding dirt path surrounded by lush green trees and foliage, creating a tranquil forest scene. The path is slightly wet, suggesting recent rain, and the vibrant greenery indicates a healthy, thriving woodland environment.
MTB Tips
MTB Training & Polar CS600X First Impressions
May 4, 2009
  1
Image of a red bicycle frame with the brand name "Paketa" prominently displayed. The frame appears to be made from magnesium and is in a sleek, modern design. The background is a gradient from black to gray, highlighting the frame's features.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Magnesium MTB Frames
May 1, 2009
  4
Two male cyclists are competing in a race. The cyclist in the foreground, wearing a green and yellow jersey with the number 03, is leaning forward on his bike as he speeds ahead. The second cyclist, dressed in a red jersey, is closely behind. The background features spectators and other cyclists, emphasizing the competitive atmosphere of the event.
Community
Urban MTB Criterium
Apr 29, 2009
  1
A close-up of a person wearing a ski helmet and goggles, with a Contour HD camera mounted on the side of the helmet. The goggles have a reflective lens, and the person's expression suggests focus and determination. The background is dark, emphasizing the helmet and goggles.
Culture
MTB News: Kona Naming Contest, HD Helmet Cam & Downhill Camp
Apr 28, 2009
  6
A group of mountain bikers navigating a dirt trail through a forested area during autumn, with fallen leaves on the ground and trees in the background. One rider is leading the group, wearing a red helmet and colorful long-sleeve jersey, while others follow behind, dressed in various biking attire.
Mountain Bike Trails
New MTB trails in Oregon, Pennsylvania, and California
Apr 24, 2009
  2
A mountain biker in athletic gear jumps off a rocky incline, with a backdrop of mountains and a bright blue sky dotted with clouds. The bike features distinctive yellow wheels, and the rider appears focused and in motion.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Luxury Car Company Mountain Bikes
Apr 23, 2009
  1
A yellow mountain bike with a lightweight frame, front suspension, and wide tires designed for rugged terrain. The bike features a chain drive, multiple gears, and disc brakes for improved stopping power.
Culture
Big Specialized Handlebar Recall
Apr 22, 2009
  1
A mountain biker enjoying a ride through a wooded trail covered in autumn leaves, with sunlight filtering through the trees. The rider, wearing a helmet and a backpack, navigates a rocky section of the path.
Community
Womens MTB Skills Camp Teaches Serious Technique
Apr 22, 2009
  1
A wheelchair athlete raises one hand in victory as they cross the finish line, breaking the tape at a race. The setting includes urban scenery in the background, indicating a lively event atmosphere. The athlete is wearing a helmet and racing attire, showcasing determination and achievement.
Culture
One tough mountain biker and racer
Apr 21, 2009
A cyclist in a red outfit rides a mountain bike down a snowy slope, leaning forward to gain speed. The background is predominantly white, emphasizing the action and movement of the rider.
Culture
Longest jump on a mountain bike & other MTB world records
Apr 20, 2009
  6
Close-up view of a muddy bicycle tire on a dirt path, with tire tread marks visible in the mud and scattered leaves nearby.
Mountain Bike Trails
Stay Off Wet MTB Trails This Spring
Apr 15, 2009
  7
MTB Tips
The Metric Dirty Century Training Plan
Apr 14, 2009
  3
A 3D topographic map showing the mountain range and terrain of Southern Arizona, featuring key locations such as Mt. Lemmon, Mt. Wrightson, Patagonia, Parker Lake, and the Canelo Hills. A red line traces a hiking route connecting these landmarks, with Mexico located to the south. The landscape is depicted with textured earth tones and dramatic elevation changes.
Community
Arizona Trail 300 Race Begins Today
Apr 10, 2009
  1
A close-up image of numerous white plastic spools or tubes piled together, showcasing their textured surfaces and circular openings. The spools are arranged in a disorganized manner, creating a visually interesting pattern.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Sensus Grips Finally Available After Years of Design
Apr 9, 2009
  9
A mountain bike partially obscured by yellow caution tape, with the text "NAME ME! OWN ME." at the top. The image has a playful and eye-catching design, emphasizing the bike’s presence.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Name Kona's New Mountain Bike - Win Cool Prizes
Apr 8, 2009
  2
A pair of black metal handcuffs with a locking mechanism, accompanied by a key, resting on a white background.
Culture
Dude Gets Stolen Mountain Bike Back After 6 Years
Apr 8, 2009
  2
A bustling outdoor event scene featuring a wide dirt pathway flanked by vendor tents displaying various brands. People are walking and mingling, with some cycling, under a clear blue sky. The tents are marked with logos, and there are various flags and banners in the background, creating a lively atmosphere.
Community
Interbike Outdoor Demo East Open to Public
Apr 7, 2009
  1
A cyclist performing a jump on a mountain bike amidst a grassy landscape and bare trees, with a clear blue sky in the background.
Mountain Bike Trails
New Indoor/Outdoor MTB Park Opening in NY State
Apr 7, 2009
  2
A mountain biker wearing a helmet and a yellow shirt rides down a steep, uneven set of stairs in a historic setting, while a photographer captures the action. The video title is "Extreme Mexican Mountain Biking."
Community
Urban Downhill MTB Race in Mexico
Apr 6, 2009