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
 
Close-up image of a black mesh fabric featuring round, padded sections. The fabric is characterized by a series of circular cutouts that allow for ventilation, and the padded sections are designed in contrasting colors. The material also includes decorative stripes along the edges.
  1
Poster for the 5th Annual Le Tour de Tryptophan event, featuring decorative swirls and elegant typography. The event details include "24 Hours of the Fullerton Loop," scheduled for November 28-29, 2008, with activities from Friday noon to Saturday noon. It is organized to benefit the So Cal Interscholastic Cycling League, with a $30 donation suggested. Additional notes mention the meeting location at the Upper Lot of the Fullerton Courthouse and state that it is a non-event with no insurance or guarantees, encouraging participants to enjoy the experience.
Alt text: A promotional flyer for the Winter Holiday Shootout Series at Vail Lake Resort in Temecula, California. The flyer includes event details: race dates on November 8, November 29, and January 3, registration information, an entry fee of $35, and mentions a chance to win a Cannondale mountain bike. Logos of sponsors are also displayed.
A wooded area with a wooden ramp leading down to a dirt bike track. A warning sign is visible on a tree, and a group of cyclists is gathered at the base of the ramp near the track. The scene is surrounded by trees, with a rocky hillside in the background.
  2
Two mountain bikes are displayed side by side, both featuring an olive green frame. The bike on the left showcases a classic design with a prominent suspension system, while the bike on the right has a more modern frame and streamlined features. Both bikes are equipped with thick, rugged tires suitable for off-road terrain.
  2
A mountain bike featuring a bronze-colored aluminum frame, front suspension fork, and knobby tires suitable for off-road terrain. The bike is shown from a side angle, displaying its gear system and disc brakes.
  2
A close-up of a person smiling while holding a hand of playing cards, showing an Ace, King, and a pair of eights in hearts, with a blurred natural background.
A bright green bicycle frame with a distinctive design, featuring a rear shock absorber and branded with the name "Morewood." The frame is angled to highlight its structure against a gradient black background.
  1
Two SRAM double-tap shifters in silver with black accents, featuring a curved lever design, displayed on a counter. Cables are attached, and part of a bicycle component is visible in the foreground.
A group of mountain bikers competing in a race, captured in motion as they accelerate across a grassy field. Several participants are wearing colorful jerseys and helmets, with numbers displayed on their bikes. Spectators can be seen in the background, watching the race. Trees line the background, suggesting an outdoor event.
A man wearing a black 'LIVESTRONG' t-shirt with a yellow logo, looking slightly to the side with a focused expression. The background is plain and uncluttered.
A streamlined, futuristic vehicle speeding along a deserted road with mountains in the background, showcasing a vast, open landscape. The vehicle features a smooth, aerodynamic design with a white upper half and a black lower half, suggesting a focus on efficiency and speed.
  1
A mountain biker riding through a lush green meadow, with a background of tall trees and snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky.
A dog wearing a black helmet, showcasing its profile and floppy ears.
A group of cyclists and spectators gathered at a mountainous location, with some individuals holding a banner that reads "Powered by Chipotle." The scene captures the enthusiasm of cycling fans, with colorful flags and team jerseys visible, as they cheer on participants in a cycling event.
  1
Map of the Chattahoochee River National Recreation Area, showing marked trails, scenic areas, and surrounding roads. The map highlights various points of interest and includes symbols for amenities and features within the area.
  2
A silhouette of a person riding a bicycle on a hill against a backdrop of a dusk sky filled with soft clouds and tree outlines.
  1
Image of two mountain bikes side by side on a white background. The left bike has a more robust frame and thicker tires, while the right bike is sleeker with narrow tires. Above the bikes, there is a green map outline of the United States.
  6
A humorous illustration comparing four political figures to different types of bicycles, with each figure accompanied by a bike that symbolically represents them. The top features one figure pairing with a red road bike, the second with a black commuter bike, the third with a vintage penny-farthing, and the fourth with a children's tricycle.
Aerial view of a tranquil lake surrounded by lush green forests, with a sandy beach and boats along the shore. The scene captures the clear blue water transitioning to lighter shades near the shoreline, framed by rocky outcrops in the foreground.
  1
Two mountain bikers navigate a dirt track during a competitive race. One rider, wearing a blue helmet and black and yellow gear, leans into a turn, kicking up dust, while the other biker, dressed in black and white, closely trails behind. Spectators can be seen in the background, enjoying the event under a clear blue sky.
A sleek, minimalist bicycle with a shiny gold frame, featuring a brown leather saddle and handlebars. The wheels have striking gold accents, set against a dark background that highlights the bicycle's design and elegant curves.
A mountain bike race scene featuring two cyclists navigating a turn. One cyclist in a blue jersey and helmet is leading, while another in a red and white jersey trails closely behind. Spectators are on the sidelines, including a woman taking a photo. The background shows a blue sky and a fence with a Hyundai advertisement.
  1
I gotta admit: I gave up on Camelbak years ago. I hated how sweaty and off-balance the packs made me feel on the bike and the high maintenance bladder always gave me fits. So I ditched the hump and started carrying water bottles on my frame, pumps and tubes in my jersey pockets, and keys and cameras in my shorts. That is, until the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Camelbak/H.O.S.S./1402.html">Camelbak H.O.S.S.</a> jumped on my back.

The H.O.S.S. is easily the largest hydration pack Camelbak makes for mountain biking and I figured I was going to hate it because it was so freakin' huge. I mean, a more gradual reintroduction to the hydration pack would have been a tiny, sleek Hydrobak - something so small I might not even notice it. But it turns out the H.O.S.S. is exactly what I needed.

Straightaway the H.O.S.S. addressed my concerns about a sweaty back and balanced handling with the Dynamic Ventilated Integrated System (DVIS). DVIS keeps the pack off your back with a mesh air channel that kept me cool even on hot, tough climbs. The H.O.S.S. also makes use of the Camelbak Dynamic Suspension harness to keep the pack stable even under gnarly circumstances. I honestly forgot I was wearing this pack on the trail which is pretty amazing considering all the junk I was hauling (more on that later). The shoulder and waist straps are simple to adjust and even include velcro loops to neaten up danglers once you've adjusted everything.

<img id="image1418" src="https://www.singletracks.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/camelbak-dvis.jpg" alt="camelbak-dvis.jpg" />

<em>The DVIS keeps the main pack off your back by at least 2 inches.</em>

In terms of storage capacity, the H.O.S.S. is top of the line. The first time I went out I decided to really put this guy to the test. In addition to the full 3L hydration bladder I brought along the following:
<ul>
 	<li>2 handheld pumps including the Mammoth 2State from Blackburn</li>
 	<li>2 pairs of sunglasses</li>
 	<li>A Sony Digital8 camcorder</li>
 	<li>A Novara Tech Beanie</li>
 	<li>1 pair of gloves</li>
 	<li>A Light and Motion Stella light kit</li>
 	<li>1 Garmin Edge GPS</li>
</ul>
With all this junk the H.O.S.S. was literally half full. I totally plan on using it to haul my Digital SLR camera on my next ride - something I've been afraid to bring along until now for fear of damaging the camera. The H.O.S.S. has plenty of padding for sensitive electronics and get this - the large main pouch is waterproof! Yep, bring on the rain storms - my gear will stay safe and dry. The only drawback to all this capacity is weight - this baby weighs just over 3 pounds <em>empty</em> and with a full water bladder you're looking to tip the scales at roughly 10 pounds! I just look at it as weight training ;)

<img id="image1420" src="https://www.singletracks.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/camelbak-pockets.jpg" alt="camelbak-pockets.jpg" />

<em>How many pockets and pouches can you count? I get to 11 without even trying.</em>

Camelbak has really improved hydration bladders over the past several years and if your pack is less than 2 years old you know what I'm talking about. The wide screw-top mouth lets you pack ice cubes no problem and even makes wiping the inside of your Camelbak dry with a towel possible. The improved bite valve has a convenient on/off switch but curiously the "off" position seems like it should be the "on" to me. No worries - as long as it keeps my shoulder dry and my pack full I won't complain. The included 3 liter bladder will slake your thirst on all but the longest epic rides.

The H.O.S.S. is clearly a high quality, durable product that should survive years of abuse. Although there are tons of straps and places to hold your junk <em>outside</em> the pack, the H.O.S.S. looks buttoned down and downright slick when you're on the trail. Reflective accents make this a good choice for late evening / night rides or even as a commuting bag (minus the hydration bladder).

<img id="image1419" src="https://www.singletracks.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/camelbak-hoss.jpg" alt="camelbak-hoss.jpg" />

Yep, I guess you could say I'm smitten with the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Camelbak/H.O.S.S./1402.html">Camelbak H.O.S.S.</a> - hey, I'm as surprised as you are. If you tend to ride for long distances or if you're a photo gear junkie like me, this is the perfect all-around mountain bike pack. This makes me think H.O.S.S. must stand for: Holds Our S#!t Securely.
  1
A sleek, modern mountain bike featuring a black and red frame, front suspension, and advanced gear components. The bike is positioned against a plain white background, highlighting its design and features.
Image alt tag: A promotional poster for the Pixie Cross World Championship featuring two cyclists racing on 16-inch bicycles in a colorful, lively environment. The poster includes event details such as the date (Saturday, July 12th), location (Downtown Downieville, next to the fire station), and a description of the open class event. Graphics include the WTB logo and striking typography.
  2
A cyclist sitting on a folding chair in a natural outdoor setting, with a mountain bike leaning against the chair. The cyclist, wearing a colorful biking outfit, appears contemplative as the sun sets in the background, illuminating the surrounding landscape.
  2
A group of four mountain bikers wearing helmets and numbered jerseys ride along a dirt trail through a grassy field, with spectators in the background. The scene captures a competitive cycling event, showcasing the riders focused on their performance.
A mountain biker in a blue and black outfit stands next to a white 2009 GT Avalanche 1.0 bike, while another cyclist in an athletic outfit sits on the ground in a wooded area. The scene depicts a trail with greenery surrounding them.
  1
A mountain biker in a red and white jersey rides through a rocky terrain at night, illuminated by bike lights. The image features the text "24 Hours of Moab" and mentions the race's significant cash prizes, celebrating its 13th year.
A cyclist riding a mountain bike along a rocky trail, with a scenic view of a valley and distant mountains in the background. The landscape features sparse vegetation and is characterized by earthy tones and rocky terrain under a partly cloudy sky.
A dirt path winding through a lush forest of evergreen trees, with rolling hills and a cloudy blue sky in the background.
A businessman in a suit and tie poses confidently while sitting on a bicycle, with his arms crossed. The background is plain white, highlighting his professional attire contrasted with the casual nature of the bike.
I gotta admit: I gave up on Camelbak years ago. I hated how sweaty and off-balance the packs made me feel on the bike and the high maintenance bladder always gave me fits. So I ditched the hump and started carrying water bottles on my frame, pumps and tubes in my jersey pockets, and keys and cameras in my shorts. That is, until the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Camelbak/H.O.S.S./1402.html">Camelbak H.O.S.S.</a> jumped on my back.

The H.O.S.S. is easily the largest hydration pack Camelbak makes for mountain biking and I figured I was going to hate it because it was so freakin' huge. I mean, a more gradual reintroduction to the hydration pack would have been a tiny, sleek Hydrobak - something so small I might not even notice it. But it turns out the H.O.S.S. is exactly what I needed.

Straightaway the H.O.S.S. addressed my concerns about a sweaty back and balanced handling with the Dynamic Ventilated Integrated System (DVIS). DVIS keeps the pack off your back with a mesh air channel that kept me cool even on hot, tough climbs. The H.O.S.S. also makes use of the Camelbak Dynamic Suspension harness to keep the pack stable even under gnarly circumstances. I honestly forgot I was wearing this pack on the trail which is pretty amazing considering all the junk I was hauling (more on that later). The shoulder and waist straps are simple to adjust and even include velcro loops to neaten up danglers once you've adjusted everything.

<img id="image1418" src="https://www.singletracks.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/camelbak-dvis.jpg" alt="camelbak-dvis.jpg" />

<em>The DVIS keeps the main pack off your back by at least 2 inches.</em>

In terms of storage capacity, the H.O.S.S. is top of the line. The first time I went out I decided to really put this guy to the test. In addition to the full 3L hydration bladder I brought along the following:
<ul>
 	<li>2 handheld pumps including the Mammoth 2State from Blackburn</li>
 	<li>2 pairs of sunglasses</li>
 	<li>A Sony Digital8 camcorder</li>
 	<li>A Novara Tech Beanie</li>
 	<li>1 pair of gloves</li>
 	<li>A Light and Motion Stella light kit</li>
 	<li>1 Garmin Edge GPS</li>
</ul>
With all this junk the H.O.S.S. was literally half full. I totally plan on using it to haul my Digital SLR camera on my next ride - something I've been afraid to bring along until now for fear of damaging the camera. The H.O.S.S. has plenty of padding for sensitive electronics and get this - the large main pouch is waterproof! Yep, bring on the rain storms - my gear will stay safe and dry. The only drawback to all this capacity is weight - this baby weighs just over 3 pounds <em>empty</em> and with a full water bladder you're looking to tip the scales at roughly 10 pounds! I just look at it as weight training ;)

<img id="image1420" src="https://www.singletracks.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/camelbak-pockets.jpg" alt="camelbak-pockets.jpg" />

<em>How many pockets and pouches can you count? I get to 11 without even trying.</em>

Camelbak has really improved hydration bladders over the past several years and if your pack is less than 2 years old you know what I'm talking about. The wide screw-top mouth lets you pack ice cubes no problem and even makes wiping the inside of your Camelbak dry with a towel possible. The improved bite valve has a convenient on/off switch but curiously the "off" position seems like it should be the "on" to me. No worries - as long as it keeps my shoulder dry and my pack full I won't complain. The included 3 liter bladder will slake your thirst on all but the longest epic rides.

The H.O.S.S. is clearly a high quality, durable product that should survive years of abuse. Although there are tons of straps and places to hold your junk <em>outside</em> the pack, the H.O.S.S. looks buttoned down and downright slick when you're on the trail. Reflective accents make this a good choice for late evening / night rides or even as a commuting bag (minus the hydration bladder).

<img id="image1419" src="https://www.singletracks.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/camelbak-hoss.jpg" alt="camelbak-hoss.jpg" />

Yep, I guess you could say I'm smitten with the <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/mtbreviews/Camelbak/H.O.S.S./1402.html">Camelbak H.O.S.S.</a> - hey, I'm as surprised as you are. If you tend to ride for long distances or if you're a photo gear junkie like me, this is the perfect all-around mountain bike pack. This makes me think H.O.S.S. must stand for: Holds Our S#!t Securely.
  2
A red helicopter flying above a rocky cliff, with a group of people gathered near a Red Bull-flavored archway at the top. The sky is clear blue, and the scene appears to be part of an event or competition, showcasing the excitement of outdoor sports.
A split image featuring two scenes from a mountain biking event. The top section shows several riders in action on a rugged trail, with trees and shrubs in the background. The bottom section displays a close-up view of a group of cyclists racing side by side on a dirt path, each wearing colorful jerseys and racing numbers.
A purple bicycle with cream-colored tires, featuring a camera mounted on the handlebars and solar panels alongside a control panel on the rear. The bike is positioned against a light-colored wall.
A man with short hair, wearing a black athletic shirt, looks over his shoulder with his tongue slightly visible between his lips. A second man stands nearby, partially in the background, with a neutral expression. The setting features a light-colored wall with a floral pattern.
Two mountain bikers riding on a forest trail, wearing helmets and focused on their path. The image includes a logo for SORBA (Southern Off-Road Bicycling Association) in the corner.
Close-up of a bicycle's drive train, showing a chain, derailleur, and part of the frame. A section of the chainstay is visible, with protective tubing on it. The background appears to be a concrete surface.
A group of people watching a bicycle competition in a gravel area, where a cyclist is attempting to ride under a low bar while balancing on a small bike. Some participants are cheering, and there's a tent in the background with bicycles and equipment.
Alt text: Promotional poster for the 3rd Annual Triangle Fat Tire Festival, scheduled for October 4, 2008, from 9 AM to 9 PM at Lake Crabtree County Park in Morrisville, NC. The poster features a bicycle graphic and details about events including "Take a Kid Mountain Biking Day," bike demos, and an endurance race titled "Curse at the Crab."
A tangled pile of black rubber hoses resting on a dry, reddish-brown surface.
A mountain bike displayed on a stand at a trade show, with a digital screen in the background showing a similar bike. The bike features a sleek black frame with red accents, distinct tires, and a modern design.
  1
Close-up view of a bicycle's drivetrain, showcasing a titanium frame, a red rear hub, a black chainring, and a blue belt drive. The intricate details of the components, including the cranks and gears, are visible against a dark background.
  5