Richard Shoop

Lawyer by day and mountain bike journalist by night, Richard brings a unique perspective to his coverage on Singletracks. He's been riding mountain bikes since 2010 and has been a NICA Level 2 coach since 2019. Richard resides in Tallahassee, Florida, and has ridden extensively across the Southeast. He's been a regular contributor to Singletracks since 2018.

Author snapshot

MTB experience

  • Mountain biking since 2010
  • Certifications: NICA Level 2 Coach
  • Current bike stable: Surly Krampus, Surly Karate Monkey
  • Favorite place to ride: Tsali Recreational Area and Fire Mountain in North Carolina

Education

  • Bachelor of Arts in History with General Honors and a Juris Doctor from the University of Miami.
 
A young man wearing a helmet and a white t-shirt stands next to a mountain bike on a dirt trail, smiling at the camera. The background features lush greenery and a sunset sky, creating an outdoor atmosphere.
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A young cyclist in a blue shirt and helmet performs a jump on a mountain bike over a dirt track surrounded by trees. The scene is bright and vibrant, showcasing the excitement of outdoor biking.
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A sleek, blue mountain bike is positioned on a wooden floor against a backdrop of corrugated metal. The bike features a sturdy frame, thick tires with a tread pattern suited for off-road riding, and high-quality components including disc brakes. The overall design showcases a blend of durability and style, ideal for outdoor adventures.
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A mountain biker performing a jump over a dirt ramp, surrounded by trees and power lines, with a city skyline visible in the background under a blue sky.
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A person riding a mountain bike performs a wheelie on a dirt path surrounded by trees in a forested area. The cyclist is wearing a helmet, sunglasses, and a black long-sleeve shirt, showcasing a smile while balancing on the bike's rear wheel. Sunlight filters through the trees, illuminating the scene.
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A young child with a focused expression stands next to an older man, both engaged in repairing a bicycle. The child is holding a bike repair stand, while the man assists in adjusting the bicycle. In the background, bicycles are leaning against a white fence with the words "GARDEN" visible. The scene takes place outdoors, under overcast skies, in a space filled with tools and bicycle parts.
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A mountain biker in a white jersey with the number 100 races down a rocky terrain surrounded by trees and spectators. The crowd, consisting of both enthusiastic fans and photographers, gathers on the sidelines, capturing the action. The setting suggests a vibrant outdoor event, likely a downhill biking competition.
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A cyclist is riding a mountain bike towards the entrance of Griffin Bike Park, marked by a large sign that reads "GRIFFIN BIKE PARK - BASIC TRAINING SKILLS PARK." In the background, a digital timer shows the time as 6:01. There is also a photo memorial display on the right side featuring an individual, along with text commemorating their service. The park is surrounded by lush green trees, creating a natural setting.
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A mountain biker performs a jump on a dirt trail, surrounded by lush green trees and colorful autumn foliage. The rider is wearing a helmet and protective gear, showcasing an adventurous outdoor activity.
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Map of Cannonball Trail at the Wedding Trail Crossing, showing the path with signs on 4x4 posts and indicating the location of a drainage ditch approximately 50 feet from the trail crossing. Additional details include a note about the time it takes to reach the ditch at 30 mph. The surrounding area features lush vegetation and rough terrain.
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A mountain biker rides along a wooden plank bridge on a forest trail, surrounded by tall trees and a dirt pathway. The biker, wearing a helmet and protective gear, is focused on navigating the trail while showing enthusiasm.
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A mountain biker navigating a rocky and root-filled terrain in a dense forest, with tall trees in the background and a large tree stump on the left side of the image. The biker is wearing a helmet and protective gear while focused on maintaining balance on the challenging path.
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A person riding a mountain bike on a dirt trail through a wooded area, surrounded by greenery, with sunlight filtering through the trees.
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A view from the handlebars of a mountain bike, showing a grassy trail ahead with a rider in blue cycling in the distance. The sky is blue with a few clouds, and trees line the path on either side. The rider's hands are gripping the handlebars, and the bike has a purple frame with a logo on the front.
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Two individuals are working in a wooded area. One person wears a helmet and an orange shirt, walking on a path made of large stones. The second person is seated nearby, wearing a light blue shirt and looking at a mobile device. The background features tall trees and a forested environment with fallen leaves and underbrush.
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