News in MTB & Cycling End of week round up
five of the hottest topics end of February, 2025
Some cool News you should know
01.
Popular Pisgah, NC MTB Trail System in Good Shape Following Hurricane Helene
Despite initial concerns, the popular MTB trail network in Pisgah National Forest, North Carolina, is in good shape for riding following Hurricane Helene’s devastating impact in the surrounding area. While the storm did affect many aspects of the trail system, most trails remain open and accessible. Thanks to over 2,200 volunteer hours from Pisgah Area SORBA, the area’s organization dedicated to preserving and improving local MTB trail systems, popular routes are clear and rideable. Riders should be aware, however, that some trails may have increased erosion or minor obstacles like landslides, and all riders are encouraged to check trail conditions on the Pisgah Area SORBA website.​
02.
Federal Layoffs to Affect MTB Trail Maintenance ​
Based on the new President's executive orders, recent layoffs of 10% of the workforce across the US Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) are expected to significantly impact mountain biking trail approval and maintenance. These cuts, which primarily target employees with less than a year of service, have resulted in about 5,000 terminations in these agencies and 220,000 across the federal government. Given that many top MTB trails are located on federally managed lands, this staffing reduction will exacerbate the already slow approval process for new trails, making it even more difficult to develop and maintain them. The Outdoor Alliance (outdooralliance.org) warns that the layoffs disproportionately affect on-the-ground staff responsible for trail upkeep, visitor safety, and permit processing. As a result, delays in recreation-related services have already begun. In response, the Outdoor Alliance is urging outdoor enthusiasts to contact lawmakers and advocate against further cuts to land management agencies. They have provided an easy-to-use online form on their website or those willing to take action in support of preserving public land access and outdoor recreation experiences. ​
03.
First-Ever Lift-Service Bike Park Coming to Bentonville Area ​
Oz Trails has unveiled plans for the first lift-served downhill mountain bike park in Northwest Arkansas, set to open between Bentonville and Bella Vista. The OZ Trails Bike Park will feature over 20 miles of gravity trails designed to provide daily access for riders across the region. These new trails will seamlessly connect to the existing Oz Trails network, including the Little Sugar Trail System and the Razorback Greenway. The park will be Northwest Arkansas’s first purpose-built gravity cycling facility, enhancing the region’s reputation as a premier global cycling destination. The park’s focus on progression will ensure riders of all skill levels can enjoy the facility. Construction of the OZ Trails Bike Park is scheduled to begin this spring. ​
04.
Crankworx Summer Series NZ Highlights​
Hey, it’s summer in New Zealand! Held at Christchurch Adventure Park, the event kicked off the first of 2025’s Crankworx Series events and included 3 races: downhill, slopestyle and pump track. In the downhill competition, Jenna Hastings took the win, followed by Millie Johnset in second, and Louise Ferguson in third. In slopestyle, Natasha Miller took first, with Patricia Druwen in second, and Shealen Reno in third. In the pump track event, Sabina Košárkováook first, Jordy Scott took second and Martha Gill came in third. The full 2025 Crankworx Series schedule: Crankworx Rotorua: March 5-9 Crankworx Cairns: May 21-25 Crankworx Summer Series SilverStar: August 1-4 Crankworx Whistler: August 8-17 For more info on Crankworx including full race results, head to https://www.crankworx.com/​
05.
New Downhill Race Series in Australia from Gravity Girls Cairns​
This women's-only downhill MTB series offers expert coaching to help female riders build confidence, refine race skills, and tackle technical terrain. Whether preparing for a first race or aiming for higher-level competitions, participants can push their limits with experienced guidance. Dates to be published soon! Visit the website for details and coach introductions: https://www.gravitygirlscairns.com.au/downhill-mtb-development-se​