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 mountain biker riding through a lush green meadow, with a background of tall trees and snow-capped mountains under a clear blue sky.
MTB Tips
Becoming a pro MTB guide
Nov 7, 2008
A dog wearing a black helmet, showcasing its profile and floppy ears.
Culture
MTB News Round Up: November 6, 2008
Nov 6, 2008
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.
Culture
MTB Eats: Burgers, Pizza, BBQ, and Burritos
Nov 5, 2008
  1
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain biking season just getting started in California, Australia
Nov 4, 2008
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.
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain biking advocacy: Chattahoochee River NRA
Nov 3, 2008
  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.
Community
Night riding season begins this weekend
Oct 31, 2008
  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.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Full suspension vs. Hardtail Mountain Bikes: Regional Differences
Oct 30, 2008
  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.
Culture
Candidates as bikes
Oct 29, 2008
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.
Community
Mountain bike news: Off-road triathlon, New Tahoe dirt, MTB race in South Africa
Oct 28, 2008
  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.
Community
Jeep 48Straight Finale: Results from San Luis Obispo
Oct 27, 2008
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.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Most expensive bike. Ever.
Oct 24, 2008
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.
Mountain Bike Trails
UK High School Gets Mountain Bike Track
Oct 23, 2008
  1
<img alt="mtb-guide-tips.jpg" id="image1366" src="https://www.singletracks.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/mtb-guide-tips.jpg" /> Admit it: you've thought about it at least once or twice. Many of us imagine giving up our commute-and-cubicle lifestyle and making a living out on the mountain bike trail, guiding out-of-state riders with money to spend through scenic and challenging terrain. But what does it actually take to become a professional mountain bike guide? SingletrackWorld posted <a href="http://www.singletrackworld.com/article.php?sid=3115">an article</a> this week about a course run by the UK's National Cycling Organization that teaches mountain bikers to become mountain bike guides. The article is pretty sparse on details but does bring up some good points about skills mountain bike guides need to be successful. It turns out being a good mountain biker who enjoys riding isn't enough - here are just a few skills you'll need to be a good professional mountain bike guide: 1. Positive attitude and mad people skills: When riders pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars to go on a mountain bike tour they expect to have a great time and it's up to the guide to make sure that happens. In the face of horrible trail conditions, the guide has to put on a positive spin on things and customer service is hugely important. Don't agree with the idea that the customer is always right? Perhaps you shouldn't become a mountain bike guide. 2. Patience is a virtue: Yep, you've heard this one before but as a mountain bike guide the fact is you'll be riding with generally slower folks who aren't familiar with the local terrain. Mountain bike guiding isn't like riding with your buddies every weekend - some days it's more like riding with your grandmother or nephew. It takes a tremendous amount of restraint to avoid bombing downhills past your clients or smoking everyone to the top of a climb. Many times you'll feel like the expert skier on the bunny slope teaching hopeless newbs to snow plow. 3. First aid training is a must. On backcountry biking tours and trips you'll be taking clients into potentially dangerous situations and the chance for injuries is high. Keep in mind that if a client breaks a leg, you'll be the one carrying them out. Scrapes and bruises are easier to handle but your bike will need to be a rolling first aid kit to avoid lawsuits (though even this isn't any guarantee). Be prepared with supplies, communication equipment, extra water, food, and warm clothing - you never know what out-of-towners will get themselves into on the trail! 4. Bike repair skills: In addition to being a trained first-responder and an expert communicator, mountain bike guides also need to be well versed in field-repair techniques for all types of bikes. Flat tires are a given but what will you do if one of your clients tacos a rim after an overly ambitious jump? Planning routes with multiple exit points along the way is a good idea so your assistants can deliver bike parts, food, water, etc. mid-ride if necessary. Nobody wants to remember their mountain bike vacation by the long walk they had to make with a broken bike. Plus that's not the way to build repeat business ;) 5. Business skills: Running a mountain bike tour company yourself is serious business and if you're not well versed in accounting, marketing, sales, and the like you may be in over your head. Also keep in mind that hobbies like mountain biking can be ruined for you once they become a job. If you're serious about starting a MTB guide service or tour company, try working for an established outfit for a summer to make sure it's the right thing for you before you invest your nest egg. 6. Logistical engineering: A mountain bike vacation has more moving parts than most "normal" vacations and you'll be responsible for making things easy on your clients. Transporting bikes and luggage to/from airports, arranging accommodations, and planning meals are just some of the unglamorous things mountain bike guides are responsible for. On top of that you need to plan killer rides plus evening entertainment and relaxation for your guests to make a memorable trip. Word of mouth is huge in the mountain bike touring biz so everything about your trip needs to be smooth as butter. Whew. If, after all that, you're still thinking about becoming a mountain bike guide then I'd say you should go for it. Obviously it takes a unique person with strong skills and the ability to lead great employees to operate a successful mountain bike tour company. Interested in going on a great MTB vacation as a client? Check out our catalog of <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/reviews/category.php?id=2">mountain bike tours</a> around the world!
Mountain Bike Trails
Mountain Bike Trails in Wisconsin
Oct 22, 2008
  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.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Specialized S-Works Epic Development
Oct 21, 2008
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.
Community
Pixie Bike Racing
Oct 17, 2008
  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.
Community
The man who beat Lance and Floyd on a mountain bike
Oct 16, 2008
Culture
Bush hooks up mountain bikers in final days in office
Oct 15, 2008
  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.
Community
Collegiate mountain biking dominated by two teams
Oct 14, 2008
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.
Culture
Lookie what I got here
Oct 13, 2008
  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.
Community
More mountain bike news
Oct 10, 2008
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.
Culture
MTB News Round Up: October 9, 2008
Oct 9, 2008
A dirt path winding through a lush forest of evergreen trees, with rolling hills and a cloudy blue sky in the background.
Community
Breckenridge, CO mountain bike stage race
Oct 8, 2008
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.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
New mountain bike deals page
Oct 8, 2008
<img alt="mtb-guide-tips.jpg" id="image1366" src="https://www.singletracks.com/wp-content/uploads/2008/11/mtb-guide-tips.jpg" /> Admit it: you've thought about it at least once or twice. Many of us imagine giving up our commute-and-cubicle lifestyle and making a living out on the mountain bike trail, guiding out-of-state riders with money to spend through scenic and challenging terrain. But what does it actually take to become a professional mountain bike guide? SingletrackWorld posted <a href="http://www.singletrackworld.com/article.php?sid=3115">an article</a> this week about a course run by the UK's National Cycling Organization that teaches mountain bikers to become mountain bike guides. The article is pretty sparse on details but does bring up some good points about skills mountain bike guides need to be successful. It turns out being a good mountain biker who enjoys riding isn't enough - here are just a few skills you'll need to be a good professional mountain bike guide: 1. Positive attitude and mad people skills: When riders pay hundreds or even thousands of dollars to go on a mountain bike tour they expect to have a great time and it's up to the guide to make sure that happens. In the face of horrible trail conditions, the guide has to put on a positive spin on things and customer service is hugely important. Don't agree with the idea that the customer is always right? Perhaps you shouldn't become a mountain bike guide. 2. Patience is a virtue: Yep, you've heard this one before but as a mountain bike guide the fact is you'll be riding with generally slower folks who aren't familiar with the local terrain. Mountain bike guiding isn't like riding with your buddies every weekend - some days it's more like riding with your grandmother or nephew. It takes a tremendous amount of restraint to avoid bombing downhills past your clients or smoking everyone to the top of a climb. Many times you'll feel like the expert skier on the bunny slope teaching hopeless newbs to snow plow. 3. First aid training is a must. On backcountry biking tours and trips you'll be taking clients into potentially dangerous situations and the chance for injuries is high. Keep in mind that if a client breaks a leg, you'll be the one carrying them out. Scrapes and bruises are easier to handle but your bike will need to be a rolling first aid kit to avoid lawsuits (though even this isn't any guarantee). Be prepared with supplies, communication equipment, extra water, food, and warm clothing - you never know what out-of-towners will get themselves into on the trail! 4. Bike repair skills: In addition to being a trained first-responder and an expert communicator, mountain bike guides also need to be well versed in field-repair techniques for all types of bikes. Flat tires are a given but what will you do if one of your clients tacos a rim after an overly ambitious jump? Planning routes with multiple exit points along the way is a good idea so your assistants can deliver bike parts, food, water, etc. mid-ride if necessary. Nobody wants to remember their mountain bike vacation by the long walk they had to make with a broken bike. Plus that's not the way to build repeat business ;) 5. Business skills: Running a mountain bike tour company yourself is serious business and if you're not well versed in accounting, marketing, sales, and the like you may be in over your head. Also keep in mind that hobbies like mountain biking can be ruined for you once they become a job. If you're serious about starting a MTB guide service or tour company, try working for an established outfit for a summer to make sure it's the right thing for you before you invest your nest egg. 6. Logistical engineering: A mountain bike vacation has more moving parts than most "normal" vacations and you'll be responsible for making things easy on your clients. Transporting bikes and luggage to/from airports, arranging accommodations, and planning meals are just some of the unglamorous things mountain bike guides are responsible for. On top of that you need to plan killer rides plus evening entertainment and relaxation for your guests to make a memorable trip. Word of mouth is huge in the mountain bike touring biz so everything about your trip needs to be smooth as butter. Whew. If, after all that, you're still thinking about becoming a mountain bike guide then I'd say you should go for it. Obviously it takes a unique person with strong skills and the ability to lead great employees to operate a successful mountain bike tour company. Interested in going on a great MTB vacation as a client? Check out our catalog of <a href="http://www.singletracks.com/reviews/category.php?id=2">mountain bike tours</a> around the world!
Culture
Mountain biking dental injuries
Oct 6, 2008
  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.
Community
Red Bull Rampage Qualifying Rounds
Oct 6, 2008
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.
Community
Road Apple Rally this weekend
Oct 3, 2008
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.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Yahoo! Purple Bike Project
Oct 2, 2008
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.
Culture
Lance Armstrong buys stake in SRAM
Oct 2, 2008
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.
Community
IMBA/SORBA Happenings
Oct 1, 2008
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.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
MTB DiY
Oct 1, 2008
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.
Community
SORBA Woodstock MTB Festival Report
Sep 30, 2008
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."
Community
Triangle Fat Tire Festival (Raleigh, NC)
Sep 29, 2008
A tangled pile of black rubber hoses resting on a dry, reddish-brown surface.
Tires
How to avoid flat tires on the trail (or, why you get so many flats)
Sep 29, 2008
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.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The Mountain Bikes of Interbike: Part II
Sep 26, 2008
  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.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The Gates Carbon Drive Chain Replacement
Sep 25, 2008
  5
A display of colorful bicycle rims at a trade show, with several people examining the display in the foreground. The rims are arranged in rows, showcasing a variety of colors, including red, blue, green, and yellow, among others. Various banners and signage can be seen in the background.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Bike trends: Pimp my rims
Sep 25, 2008
Mountain bike on display at an exhibition, featuring a green and black frame, prominent suspension, and sleek tires. The background includes blurred figures and other bicycles.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The Bikes of Interbike 2008: Part I
Sep 25, 2008
A white Giro Athlon mountain bike helmet displayed on a rack, accompanied by a product information card. The card features specifications, and highlights that the helmet is new for 2006.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
New MTB Products
Sep 25, 2008
An image of a bicycle's handlebars and seat post, showing a release lever and a seat post with stop holes. The bike is displayed on a table, and the background consists of a dark curtain, suggesting it’s at an exhibition or trade show.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Remote seat height adjustment
Sep 25, 2008
Black handlebar with branding stickers displayed in a showcase, partially obscured by a white information card. The handlebar has a sleek design, featuring a circular end cap and logos from EAXON and EA70.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
29er Wheels Need Wider Bars
Sep 25, 2008
A panel discussion featuring three speakers at a table in front of an audience. Two speakers are seated at the center, one wearing a black shirt and the other in a white shirt, while an older man in a blazer sits to the left. The audience is partially visible, focusing on the speakers.
Culture
Lance Armstrong @ Interbike
Sep 25, 2008
A speaker at a podium wearing a gray cap, glasses, and a dark jacket, presenting to an audience.
Community
MTB Hall of Fame Induction 2008
Sep 25, 2008
A close-up view of a bronze mountain bike wheel displayed on a wall. The wheel features thin spokes and a hub at the center, with a sign above it labeled "Iodine / all mountain."
Mountain Bikes and Gear
New Wheels from Crank Brothers
Sep 25, 2008
  1
A hand holding a compact, white Blackburn air pump, showcasing the product's design and branding.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The tiniest and largest handheld bike pumps ever
Sep 24, 2008
A display case featuring two vintage electronic devices mounted on red backgrounds. The left device is a black remote control shaped like a shield, connected to two AA batteries. The right device is a red remote control with buttons, also displayed with two AA batteries attached.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The Blackburn Flea: Use in case of emergency
Sep 24, 2008
Alt text: Award certificate for the "2008 Best Mountain Bike Light System" featuring the name "Light &amp; Motion ARC" and a quote praising it as the best overall HID system. The certificate includes five stars and is branded with the logo of Singletracks.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
Light & Motion Seca MTB light system
Sep 24, 2008
  1
A person holds a Garmin GPS device in their hand, displaying a map interface with Lake Mead and nearby locations shown on the screen. The device is orange and features various buttons including a reset and lap option.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
The new Garmin 705 Cycling GPS
Sep 24, 2008
A person wearing a green t-shirt and a helmet stands next to a mountain bike on a dirt field. In the background, there are vehicles and tents, suggesting an outdoor event or competition. A yellow banner is visible behind them, with text that is partially obscured.
Mountain Bikes and Gear
FS XC head-to-head: Titus Racer X Carbon vs. Ellsworth Truth
Sep 24, 2008