canal trail

[seenvic]

dgaddis1 said:

When I say ramps, I'm not talking about a big launch, just something that will allow you to roll up and over the tree without getting off the bike or riding around the tree. Of course, you could jump them if you want, but you wouldn't have to. But I guess that would need approving right?

Either way, I'll be here this weekend, so count me in for working on the trail. Just let me know when to be there!

If made pyramid style, the pyramid needs to be secured. Problem with just stacking smaller logs against the larger log is over time the smaller logs usually roll away from the larger log. The problem is when the backside smaller logs roll away and a rider doesn't discover this until he/she is halfway over the log and sees the spot he/she needs to put the front wheel down is occupied by the log that rolled away. Or the logs on the frontside roll away, and don't allow anyone to ride over the log because you can't get close enough to it.

I've never really liked pyramids as most are not done well. But the one on the Great Wall at FATS is pretty darn good. I still like that spot better w/o the pyramid, but will settle for this well constructed pyramid. Last time I rode it, I didn't even lift my front wheel, I just hit it and rolled up and over it (CCW direction, w/ the rock on the backside).

What is wrong with getting off your bike every so often? Sure it sucks to do it alot, but once or twice a ride isn't bad.

I have found that working on the cyclocross dismount, step over and remount is fun and once you learn it a great skill to have. There is no stopping involved. You ride along, step to one pedal, continue rolling, dismount at the log, pick up the bike in one fluid motion, step over, put the bike down, and get back on - while never stopping at all.

[laramie]

I have seen some well done ramps with logs and dirt. The dirt ones are the best but the dirt has to come from somewhere and be packed down properly. The problem with both of these methods is that they take many hours when the problem can be fixed in less than a minute with a chainsaw.

[Angela]

Today on the canal trail about 10 people met and with a few hours of work, four chainsaws, 2 DR mowers and a gas powered hedger the canal trail should be open for business again! This is definitely a benefit to belonging to an organization like SORBA because you basically had 30 man hours and a lot of equipment able to concentrate resources on the Canal trail.

It would be hard for the average Joe by himself to muster that can of effort in a short period of time. That is one of the many great reasons to join the organization - the dollars help support equip and equipment upkeep, etc even if you never have the time to actually volunteer to help on a trail. As a member you can come to the meetings and lobby for and volunteer for work parties on your favorite trails!!

[dgaddis1]

The canal trail is 100% rideable now, and is 200% more fun than it was last night! Thanks for everyone that helped!

[b16madman]

Sounds great, now I just need to come to a meeting.