Press

IMBA Europe has announced that Bike Innovation Scotland – a partnership between Edinburgh Napier University and South of Scotland Enterprise – has been selected to host the 2027 IMBA Europe Summit in the Tweed Valley, Scottish Borders.

The Summit will take place on 22-24 September 2027 at the Caerlee Mill Bike Campus and Trail Lab in Innerleithen, where the world’s first dedicated Mountain Bike Innovation Centre is currently under construction.

Earlier this year, the Borderlands Partnership Board approved £15.5million of UK Government investment through the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal for the development of a Mountain Bike Innovation Centre and Trail Lab.

The Caerlee Mill Bike Campus is projected to generate £86m in Gross Value Added and over 225 jobs in the South of Scotland over ten years, with potential for an additional £4m of UK Government investment in the Tweed Valley Adventure Bike Park.

Set against the backdrop of world-class trails and a thriving riding community, the 2027 IMBA Summit promises to be a landmark event for the European mountain biking sector.

The event will celebrate innovation and help shape the future of sustainable mountain biking, while bringing together leaders, practitioners, academics and industry professionals from across Europe and beyond.

Professor Gary Hutchison, Vice Principal, Regional Innovation & External Affairs at Edinburgh Napier University, said: “In what promises to be an exciting year for cycling in Scotland, it is a real privilege to be able to host an event of this calibre.

“The new Caerlee Mill Bike Campus in Innerleithen, with its world leading facilities and celebrated trails, will provide the perfect setting for those who are shaping the future of this sector.

“This also offers the ideal opportunity for us to showcase and develop Edinburgh Napier’s strong track record in mountain bike research and innovation.

“We look forward to welcoming delegates for what will no doubt be an inspirational summit.”

Russel Griggs, South of Scotland Enterprise Chair, said: “It is fantastic for the new Mountain Bike Innovation Centre to be hosting this landmark event for the European mountain biking sector.

“2027 will be a hugely exciting year for cycling in our region, with the opening of the Centre and the Tour de France arrival in the South of Scotland amongst a number of other exciting announcements.

“The Caerlee Mill Bike Campus site is progressing on time and on budget, with the building beginning to take shape with the steel frame now in place.”

The Tweed Valley is widely recognised as one of Europe’s premier mountain biking locations, with an extensive and diverse trail network spanning multiple forests and terrains suitable for all rider abilities. It showcases great examples of community engagement, sustainability and cutting-edge trail focused research

From the globally renowned Glentress Trail Centre – host of the 2023 UCI Cycling World Championships – to the famed enduro trails of Innerleithen, the region offers an unmatched combination of natural beauty, technical challenge and riding heritage.

The Tweed Valley is also set to play host to 2027 Tour de France Grand Départ, with the first stage passing through the Scottish Borders on 2 July.

At the centre of the Summit will be the newly developed Caerlee Mill Bike Campus, a pioneering facility dedicated to research, development and collaboration in the bike sector.

As a hub for cutting-edge innovation, education and industry engagement, the Centre and Trail Lab will provide an ideal venue to explore the latest advancements in trail design, rider experience and sustainable infrastructure.

Beyond the conference programme, delegates will have the opportunity to experience the wider destination. The Tweed Valley boasts a rich offering of outdoor and cultural activities – from guided MTB rides and trail building experiences, to wild swimming, riverside cycling and visits to historic sites such as Traquair House, Scotland’s oldest inhabited home.

A wide range of accommodation, local food and drink and vibrant community-led businesses will ensure a warm and memorable welcome for all visitors.

Mark Torsius, IMBA Europe’s General Manager, said: “Of the many high-quality bids submitted for the 2027 summit, we simply couldn’t overlook Bike Innovation Scotland’s.

“As one of the most mountain bike-friendly countries – and with the momentum generated by the opening of the Caerlee Mill Bike Campus – we are delighted to be heading to Innerleithen in 2027 and working alongside our Scottish colleagues from ENU, DMBinS, and South of Scotland Enterprise.

“From Scotland’s ‘right to roam’ responsible outdoor access to the new Innovation Centre and Trail Lab, it all blends well with the direction IMBA Europe has set out in its new multi-year strategy: ‘Protect the legacy, build the future’.”

What to Expect at IMBA Europe Summit 2027

The IMBA Europe Summits, held annually since 2014, have grown into one of the most influential gatherings for the mountain biking community in Europe.

Originally focused on bringing member organisations together, the Summit now attracts a diverse audience including trail builders, tourism professionals, land managers, academics, public authorities and health practitioners.

The 2027 Summit will follow the established format of a two-to-three-day event, featuring keynote presentations from global thought leaders, interactive workshops, panel discussions, project meetings and site visits.

Delegates can also expect a strong social programme, including daily group rides and opportunities to experience the Tweed Valley’s internationally celebrated trails firsthand.

With its unique combination of trail focused innovation, sustainability and community, the Tweed Valley is set to deliver a truly distinctive and inspiring IMBA Europe Summit in 2027 – one that highlights both the future of mountain biking destinations and the power of collaboration across land managers, researchers, industry, strong communities and riders.

ENDS

Notes to editor

For more information on this press release please contact Media & Communications Officer John Callan on 0131 455 6251.

Pictures free to use with credit to _____.

About Edinburgh Napier University

Edinburgh Napier University is the #1 modern university in Scotland (THE World University Rankings 2025) and was the leading university in Edinburgh for student satisfaction for five consecutive years (NSS 2020–2024). We are also recognised as the top Scottish modern university for research power and impact in the UK’s most recent national assessment of research quality (REF 2021).

An enterprising and innovative university, Edinburgh Napier integrates work-based learning, applied research and graduate employability across more than 250 undergraduate and postgraduate courses. Nearly 20,000 students from over 145 countries study with us on campus in Edinburgh, online and with partner universities worldwide. Through education and research with real-world impact, we support people and organisations to make a positive difference in a rapidly changing world.

For more information about how we’re shaping the future, visit www.napier.ac.uk.

About the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal

• The Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, signed in March 2021, is a landmark cross-border investment partnership involving five councils: Cumberland, Dumfries and Galloway, Northumberland, Scottish Borders, and Westmorland and Furness.
• It aims to drive sustainable and inclusive economic growth across the South of Scotland and North of England.
• The £350 million investment in the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal, from the UK and Scottish Governments, is made up of £150 million for Scotland (£85 million from the Scottish Government and £65 million from the UK Government) and up to £200 million for England from the UK Government. This will be supported by over £100million of funding from local partners.
• The Deal focuses on four themes: improving places, enabling infrastructure, encouraging green growth, and supporting innovation, business, and skills, delivering benefits to over one million residents. It aims to create up to 5,500 jobs and add around £1.1 billion Gross Value Added (GVA) to the regional economy.
• More about the Borderlands Inclusive Growth Deal: borderlandsgrowth.com

IMBA Europe proudly welcomes the publication of the European Trails Policy Paper – Trails as Strategic European Infrastructure, marking a significant milestone in the collective effort to secure long-term recognition, investment and support for Europe’s trail networks.

As one of the leading organizations involved in developing the policy paper, IMBA Europe has worked alongside European Trails, the European Network of Outdoor Sports (ENOS), EUROPARC Federation, the European Ramblers’ Association (ERA) and other key partners to build a unified voice for trails across Europe.

Trails are far more than recreational assets. They are essential public infrastructure that connects people with nature, supports healthier lifestyles, enables sustainable mobility, strengthens rural economies, conserves biodiversity and enhances climate resilience. Despite delivering these wide-ranging public benefits, trail networks have historically received limited political recognition and fragmented funding.

The European Trails Policy Paper calls on the European Union, Member States and regional authorities to formally recognize trails as strategic infrastructure and to integrate trail management, restoration and climate adaptation into existing and future funding mechanisms. It also advocates for dedicated investment that ensures Europe’s trail networks remain safe, accessible and resilient for generations to come.

For IMBA Europe, this represents an important step towards a more coordinated European approach to sustainable trail management.

“Mountain bike trails are part of a much bigger story,” said [Spokesperson Name], [Title] at IMBA Europe. “When trails are planned, built and maintained sustainably, they benefit everyone—walkers, runners, cyclists, equestrians, local communities, land managers and nature itself. This policy paper recognizes that trails are shared public infrastructure deserving long-term investment and strategic planning.”

The publication reflects a growing consensus across the outdoor recreation sector that trails should be viewed through a broader policy lens. Well-managed trail networks contribute directly to several European priorities, including public health, sustainable tourism, rural development, biodiversity conservation and climate adaptation. By speaking with one voice, Europe’s leading trail organizations are demonstrating that investment in trails delivers benefits far beyond recreation.

IMBA Europe has long championed sustainable trail development through education, research, professional trail-building standards and policy advocacy. Its involvement in the European Trails Policy Paper reinforces the organization’s commitment to ensuring that high-quality, sustainable trails continue to support communities, landscapes and outdoor recreation across Europe.

The release of the policy paper is only the beginning. IMBA Europe looks forward to continuing its collaboration with partners across Europe to engage policymakers, land managers and stakeholders in turning the paper’s recommendations into meaningful action.

Link to the European Trails Policy Paper.

30th January, 2026- IMBA Europe has officially launched the European Mountain Biker Survey, inviting mountain bikers across Europe to share their experiences, motivations, riding habits, and levels of engagement. Open from (January 31st) to (March 15th), the survey welcomes responses from  anyone who rides a mountain bike in Europe.

Following the strong response to previous IMBA Europe surveys, which have significantly supported advocacy efforts across the continent, this new edition aims to capture how mountain biking has evolved over the decade since our first survey. Riders, clubs, trail builders, industry partners, event organisers, and media outlets are encouraged to participate and help share the survey widely within their networks.

The survey is conducted by the International Mountain Bicycling Association Europe (IMBA Europe) and is open to European residents aged 16 and over. We request that respondents fill in the survey once only and all responses are anonymous.

Over the last ten years, mountain biking has changed dramatically – from the bikes we ride to the trails we use and the communities we are part of. The sport continues to grow and diversify, and this survey will help IMBA Europe better understand these changes. The findings will directly inform advocacy work and provide valuable insights for anyone working to support, shape, and grow mountain biking across Europe.

IMBA Europe’s advocacy focuses on creating accessible and sustainable trail networks close to where people live. These everyday riding opportunities support healthy lifestyles, local economies, and well-managed green spaces. Through research, collaboration, and policy engagement, IMBA Europe works with communities and decision-makers to plan, build, and maintain high-quality trail systems that benefit everyone.

Survey results will help IMBA Europe better represent European mountain bikers by improving understanding of riders’ needs, motivations, and attitudes toward trail access, development, and volunteering. The survey is available in nine languages, which can be selected at the bottom of the survey page.

All data collected will be used solely for advocacy and research purposes and will not be sold or used commercially. The insights gathered will strengthen the case for investing in mountain biking and supporting responsible trail development across Europe.

Link to survey.

About IMBA Europe

IMBA Europe is the European arm of the International Mountain Bicycling Association, dedicated to protecting and expanding access to sustainable trails for mountain biking. Working at European, national, and local levels with our membership, IMBA Europe supports advocacy, education, and research to ensure mountain biking remains environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and economically beneficial.

To learn more about IMBA Europe and its initiatives, visit the IMBA Europe website.

Mountain biking tourism is a proven driver for improving economic conditions in rural areas, especially in communities that have fallen on hard times due to depopulation or diminishing returns on traditional forms of agriculture or winter tourism as a victim of a changing climate. The EU Sustainable Tourism Strategy should consider mountain biking a key focus area to promote healthy, inclusive, sustainable, nature-based recreation and tourism opportunities.

The advent of e-bikes has contributed to mountain bikings widespread adoption and appeal with a potential to accommodate populations regardless of age or physical ability: more than 30 million people in Europe are potential guests for a mountain bike vacation. In the 2022 Mountainbike tourism Forum Monitor, 15 000 German-speaking respondents reported an average of 2.82 2-4 day holidays a year expressly for mountain biking, and one trip of 5 days or longer. Mountain biking has an economic impact as well, with a destination like Dolomiti Paganella in Italy reporting over 4.2 million from approximately 21 000 visitors in one season, making the destination more resilient and less dependent on the winter season.

The increased professionalisation of MTB trail building caters to a range of riding styles and can provide sustainable trails in any type of terrain. The European commission and other institutions can support this work and help improve innovation in the sector, contributing to an even greater impact for the activity on rural areas across the continent. By guaranteeing access to natural spaces, and providing a range of different types of experiences that are ecologically, socially and economically sustainable mountain biking can continue to grow and deliver strong returns.

The European Declaration on Cycling from 2024 recognizes the importance of cycling for contributing to sustainable development goals, and therefore mountain biking should be considered a key cornerstone for the EU Sustainable Tourism Strategy.

IMBA Europe is delighted to announce that the 2025 IMBA Europe Summit will be hosted by MTB Kingdoms Spain, a destination fast gaining recognition as one of Europe’s premier mountain biking regions.

The summit, one of the longest-running and most influential annual events for the mountain biking community in Europe, will take place between September 16th-18th in the town of Boltaña, an area renowned for its diverse terrain, scenic beauty, and commitment to sustainable trails, and regional development. MTB Kingdoms is not your average cycling destination -the uniqueness of this region is its commitment to restoring and maintaining its ancient trails which have connected villages for centuries, and continue to do so.

The 2025 summit promises to be an exciting and pivotal event for the European MTB sector, bringing together passionate individuals from across Europe to share ideas, celebrate mountain biking culture, and discuss the future of the sport.

“Bringing back the IMBA Europe Summit to Spain 10 years later is a huge honour and a massive responsibility for MTB Kingdoms. Not only are we in charge of welcoming everyone on behalf of the entire Spanish mountain bike community, but we are also going to be addressing a number of problems and opportunities regarding our community and rural areas. 

Boltaña has all the necessary facilities for the Summit: a modern exhibition centre, plenty of accommodation, cultural and leisure offers, and of course, a huge network of MTB trails by its footstep.

Co-founder & former President of Zona Zero Mountain Bike Centre, Jorge Ruiz de Eguilaz

The choice of MTB Kingdoms Spain as the host of the 2025 summit highlights the region’s growing reputation as a world-class mountain biking destination. Spanning several stunning valleys and areas in the Pyrenees, MTB Kingdoms is renowned for its diverse and expansive trail networks, offering something for every rider—from thrilling downhill descents to scenic cross-country and trail routes. Beyond its exceptional terrain, MTB Kingdoms is dedicated to developing and maintaining trails in an environmentally responsible way. The region aims to ensure it remains a sustainable and appealing tourism destination—not just for mountain bikers—but also a place where future generations choose to live and work.

Hosting the IMBA Europe Summit is an important milestone for MTB Kingdoms Spain, as the region looks to further establish itself as a top European MTB hub and attract international attention.

 “Returning to Spain feels quite special, it’s the first time we’re going to a country where the Summit already took place. In 2014, the IMBA Europe Summit took place in Cercedilla and since then, the mountain bike landscape changed significantly. We’ve seen some great examples of regional development projects but are also aware of some persistent access issues in Spain. We hope this Summit will bring all stakeholders together, exploring new opportunities and solutions to further unlock Spain’s enormous potential as a mountain bike country”.

General Manager, Mark Torsius

What to Expect at IMBA Europe Summit 2025

The IMBA Europe Summits have been held annually since 2014. Initially, these gatherings were primarily events to bring IMBA Europe’s widespread collective of member organisations together to share good practices, start new projects and discuss trends and challenges in mountain biking. Over the course of years, the IMBA Summits have attracted an increasingly diverse range of participants and organisations: from mountain bike advocacy groups, trail builders and professionals in the bicycle and tourism industry, to land managers, academics, public authorities, and health care practitioners. More and more professionals are working in the emerging domain of mountain biking and the need to learn from each other, exchange knowledge, to get inspired and build partnerships has only increased.

The Summit is a two-to-three-day event, combining keynote speeches from opinion leaders with workshops, site visits, project meetings, panel debates and social activities, including daily (group) rides.

Stay tuned for more Summit updates coming in early 2025.

IMBA Europe anuncia MTB Kingdoms España como sede de su 2025 Europe Summit

IMBA Europe se complace en anunciar que la 2025 IMBA Europe Summit será organizada por MTB Kingdoms España, un destino que está ganando rápidamente reconocimiento como una de las principales regiones de ciclismo de montaña de Europa. La cumbre, uno de los eventos anuales más antiguos y más influyentes para la comunidad MTB en Europa, tendrá lugar del 16 al 18 de septiembre en Boltaña, una zona reconocida por su belleza, diversidad de terreno y compromiso con la gestión sostenible del MTB y en general el desarrollo rural. MTB Kingdoms no es un destino ciclista cualquiera: la singularidad de esta región es su compromiso de recuperar y mantener los antiguos caminos tradicionales que han conectado pueblos durante siglos y continúan haciéndolo de nuevo.

La cumbre de 2025 promete ser un evento emocionante y fundamental para el sector europeo del MTB, que reunirá a personas comprometidas de toda Europa para compartir ideas, celebrar la cultura del ciclismo de montaña y debatir sobre el futuro de este deporte.

“Traer de vuelta la IMBA Europe Summit a España 10 años después es un gran honor y una enorme responsabilidad para MTB Kingdoms. No sólo nos encargamos de dar la bienvenida a todos los asistentes en nombre de toda la comunidad MTB española, sino que también vamos a abordar una serie de problemáticas y oportunidades de nuestra comunidad y el medio rural. 

Boltaña cuenta con todas las instalaciones necesarias para la Cumbre: un moderno centro de congresos, abundante oferta de alojamiento, cultural y de ocio, y por supuesto, una amplia red de rutas de mtb en la misma puerta de casa

Cofundador y ex-presidente del Centro MTB Zona Zero, Jorge Ruiz de Eguilaz

La elección de MTB Kingdoms España como anfitrión de la cumbre de 2025 pone de relieve la creciente reputación de la región como destino de ciclismo de montaña de talla mundial. MTB Kingdoms, que abarca varios valles y áreas impresionantes de los Pirineos, es famoso por sus amplias y variadas redes de senderos, que ofrecen opciones para cada tipo de ciclista, desde emocionantes descensos hasta pintorescas rutas de cross-country y trail.. Más allá de su terreno excepcional, MTB Kingdoms se dedica a recuperar y mantener senderos de una manera medioambientalmente responsable. La región pretende garantizar que siga siendo un destino turístico sostenible y atractivo, no sólo para los ciclistas de montaña, sino también un lugar donde sus futuras generaciones deseen vivir y trabajar.

Ser anfitrión de la IMBA Europe Summit es un hito importante para MTB Kingdoms España, ya que la región busca establecerse aún más como un importante centro europeo de MTB y atraer la atención internacional.

 “Volver a España es muy especial, es la primera vez que repetimos país en la IMBA Europe Summit. En 2014 tuvo lugar en Cercedilla la primera edición y desde entonces, el panorama del mountain bike ha cambiado significativamente. Hemos visto algunos excelentes ejemplos de proyectos de desarrollo regional, pero también somos conscientes de algunos problemas de acceso al medio persistentes en España. Esperamos que esta Cumbre reúna a todas las partes interesadas, explorando nuevas oportunidades y soluciones para desbloquear aún más el enorme potencial de España como país MTB”.

General Manager, Mark Torsius

Qué puedes esperar de la IMBA Europe Summit 2025

La IMBA Europe Summit se lleva celebrando anualmente desde 2014. Inicialmente, estas reuniones eran principalmente eventos en los que reinir al amplio colectivo de organizaciones miembros de IMBA Europe para compartir buenas prácticas, iniciar nuevos proyectos y discutir tendencias y desafíos en el MTB. A lo largo de los años, las IMBA Europe Summit han atraído a una gama cada vez más diversa de participantes y organizaciones: desde grupos de defensa de las bicicletas de montaña, constructores de senderos y profesionales de la industria de la bicicleta y el turismo, hasta propietarios de terrenos, académicos, autoridades públicas y profesionales de la salud. Cada vez más profesionales trabajan en el sector emergente del ciclismo de montaña y la necesidad de aprender unos de otros, intercambiar conocimientos, inspirarse y crear vínculos no hace más que aumentar.

La Cumbre es un evento de dos a tres días que combina conferencias de líderes del sector con talleres prácticos, visitas, desarrollo de proyectos, mesas redondas y actividades sociales, incluyendo salidas en bici diarias (en grupo)

Estad atentos a más información sobre la Europe Summit a primeros de 2025.

Joint Venture aims to Enhance Sustainable Trail Management, and Further Development through Advocacy and Education

SHIMANO and the International Mountain Bike Association Europe (IMBA Europe), a collective that aims to grow mountain biking by promoting the sport as accessible, inclusive and environmentally sustainable, today announced a new three-year partnership to support and facilitate trail projects and advocacy programs.

As one of the world’s leading bicycle component manufacturers, Shimano is uniquely placed to work alongside IMBA Europe on a variety of initiatives that will encourage riders to experience the joys of heading off-road, riding through their local loam, and considering what a contribution (at a local level) to actively enhance the sport’s environmental sustainability might look like.

Arjen Vinke, Managing Director, Bike at Shimano Europe said, “We are excited to formalize our partnership with IMBA Europe. Shimano wants to ensure that sustainable trail design and construction techniques will limit the environmental impact. It’s important that every effort is made to protect and expand trails for all users – including mountain bike riders of all skill levels. Through our new Trail Born Fund, Shimano is showing its dedication to the mountain bike community and environmental responsibility.”

SHIMANO Trail Born Fund
The Trail Born Fund aims to effect change across the mountain bike riding world that will one-day open new riding areas across Europe (with select projects already taking place in North America and Oceania) and improve existing trail networks. As a trusted partner, IMBA Europe’s involvement will help connect European countries together through collaboration and knowledge sharing.

And that means more places for all of us to ride—and more opportunities for new riders, like kids, to discover and take part in maintaining this amazing sport for future generations.

Shimano will leverage its Trail Born Fund to provide in-kind support towards some of IMBA Europe’s own trail development initiatives across the continent, after a thorough review of the proposed projects.

In turn, IMBA Europe will also work closely with Shimano to identify priority projects within its own network that can benefit from this funding.

DIRTT
A key activity of this partnership will be the continued support of selected DIRTT (Developing Intereuropean Resources for Trail builder Training) projects, involving six countries that have a growing domestic MTB participation rate. Trail builders are an important link in sharing information and competencies towards local trail groups and land managers. This new funding from Shimano will ensure that the DIRTT program will be recognized as a European-wide, certified trail builder program, as soon as 2026.

Mark Torsius, General Manager, IMBA Europe said, “We are very pleased with Shimano’s commitment to trail advocacy and trail development in its broadest sense. By supporting not only trail building projects but also by investing in training and education, we’re sure the impact of the Trail Born Fund will have a multiplier effect with more projects on the ground being initiated.”

Shimano and IMBA Europe officially launched their partnership through the signing of a joint Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) earlier this month. This partnership will lead to the announcement of the first European Trail Born Fund projects in March 2025.

Download the full press release for photos and links to more information.

IMBA Europe’s Norwegian member organisation the Norwegian Organisation for Mountain Biking (NOTS) has informed us of a proposal to modify the Norwegian Motor Traffic act. This law, regulating the use of motor-vehicles outside of traffic environments and cultivated areas, will for the first time affect the use of e-bikes, including those pedal-assist models officially regulated as bicycles and not motor vehicles by the traffic code according to their power output and top speed.

As we transition to a fossil-free economy, the e-bike has proven to be perhaps the most effective tool in converting people to more sustainable and climate-friendly mobility. E-bikes lower barriers to entry, making cycling more accessible to a wider range of participants, while maintaining the health benefits of regular cycling and increasing the distance people are willing to ride by bicycle. These benefits are shared by e-mountain bikes, making trail networks enjoyed for mountain biking more accessible to e-bike users, which might otherwise be exclusively reached by car. Making cycling less attractive through a complicated patchwork of legislation will only discourage adoption of e-bikes, with serious consequences for the climate.

At heart, IMBA Europe and the mountain bike community we represent care deeply for nature and are concerned  for the environments in which we exercise our activity. That is why we believe that a cornerstone of any nature preservation or conservation effort must be ensuring that the public has the opportunity to appreciate conservation efforts by providing access for responsible recreation. Policies must not limit responsible behaviour or they risk widespread violation and a breakdown of trust among all parties and stakeholders.

We approve of taking steps to limit and reverse any damage caused by e-bikes in consultation with local representatives of the community. Local mountain bike representatives understand the terrain and the community and can help implement collaborative solutions that limit the impact of e-mountain bikes on sensitive areas. A primary measure to address sustainable outdoor recreation is through improvement of the recreational infrastructure in the form of sustainable trails, a subject on which IMBA is a recognized international leader. Policies that seek to improve outdoor recreational infrastructure benefit all users while simultaneously protecting natural spaces.

A more nuanced and effective policy would respect local practice and engage with the local community to address any concerns over the impact of outdoor recreation. Indeed, the framework of the current, functioning law treats restricted e-bikes as regular bikes, in all forms of traffic and terrain, yet allows for local restrictions where necessary. 

Finally, we at IMBA Europe worry that passage of such a poorly-motivated and uninformed law as that proposed in Norway may inspire a trend of similar restrictions affecting more of our member organisations and mountain bikers across the continent. We support the efforts of NOTS to inhibit the passage of this law restricting the free movement of e-bikes in Norway

More mountain biking in Europe – good for people, the environment and business

The International Mountain Biking Association Europe (IMBA Europe) and trade association Cycling Industries Europe (CIE) have announced a 3-year collaboration to support and grow mountain biking in Europe and called on all mountain bike brands to add their support.

The shared vision between the organisations is that that organisations and institutions from civil society, business and public sectors need to work together to use the potential of mountain biking for sustainable cities and communities and an active and healthy lifestyle for all.

IMBA Europe brings together national mountain biking advocacy organisations and professionals in the sector such as trail builders and MTB regions, while CIE represents many of the leading bike and component manufacturers in the mountain bike sector. The new collaboration will see the two sectors combine on shared issues like advocating for access to sustainable mountain bike and trails close-to-home and threats to countryside access which have become more common since the COVID pandemic.

IMBA Europe and CIE are committed to increasing and building further capacity for MTB advocacy in Europe through collaboration and knowledge sharing, positioning mountain biking as a solution to better health, sustainability, and economics of communities resulting in growth of MTB participation in all sectors of society.

A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between IMBA Europe and CIE will cover the period 2022-2024 and will see the two organisations work together on campaigns, on events and through joint expert groups. CIE will also provide funding from its membership fees for IMBA Europe’s core work.

CIE is now calling for all mountain bike brands in the European market to join a special interest group which will support the IMBA Europe collaboration and allow companies to combine forces on topics of common interest. SRAM, Specialized and WTB are already IMBA Europe supporters and will be joined by Trek in the new group. (Potential members can contact CIE through their web site to express an interest in joining.)

Quote Thomas Larsen Schmidt, President of IMBA Europe:

“I am thrilled about this new partnership between CIE and IMBA Europe. At IMBA Europe we know that to succeed as the leading advocacy organization on mountain biking in Europe we need to have capable and visionary partners and allies. In this partnership we have in CIE found an organization who look at cycling the same way IMBA Europe does. We both see cycling as one of the best tools in building a sustainable future. Furthermore, we share the same goals, more people on bikes and better cycling infrastructure and I am convinced we will achieve better results working together”.

Quote Tony Grimaldi, President of Cycling Industries Europe:

“This is an important expansion of CIE’s support for advocacy communities in Europe who do such great work at local and national levels. We already provide support in the transport and tourism sectors, now we know we must step up to ensure that the potential of mountain biking is fully realised too. IMBA Europe is our natural partner to combine the mountain bike brands voice with the knowledge and passion of local champions.”

About Cycling Industries Europe: Cycling Industries Europe is the voice of cycling business, actively promoting the sector in Europe and worldwide. Our ambition is to reach out beyond the traditional definition of the cycling industry and align all business and commercial actors in a common mission to change the way people move.

About IMBA Europe: IMBA Europe is a collective of MTB advocacy groups, trail associations, trail builders, MTB regions and bicycle industry partners.  IMBA Europe aims to grow mountain biking through promoting our sport as inexpensive, accessible, inclusive and environmentally sustainable.

Media contacts

CIE: Kevin Mayne, CEO

k.mayne@cyclingindustries.com

www.cyclingindustries.com

The popularity of mountain biking is booming, amplifying the need for more trails and skilled trail builders to plan, design, construct and maintain sustainable trail infrastructure across Europe. This was the impetus for the DIRTT (Developing Intereuropean Resources for Trail builder Training) project in 2019, started by IMBA Europe and an international project group representing both volunteer and professional trail builders, education providers, municipalities, and tourist destinations. In the first project phase DIRTT developed a mountain bike trail educational framework and study programme, leading to Europe’s first formal education for Mountain Bike Trail Planning, Construction and Maintenance at Fagskolen I Viken. The program was launched in September 2022 with a total of 25 students from 12 different countries. Thanks to the renewed support from the European Commission DIRTT will be able to continue developing the existing framework into a European-wide trail builder certification program.

In a comprehensive trail building sector survey undertaken by the DIRTT project in 2020, as many as 65% responded that they struggle to recruit employees with the appropriate skills and competence. Furthermore, 56% of the sector experience that there is not enough training available to meet the needs of their organization. Hence, the first phase of DIRTT was dedicated to building more training capacity both at the volunteer and professional level. Another central finding in the 2020-survey was a strong demand for a non-mandatory certification program. As many as 79% of the respondents felt that the introduction of certification would lead to an increase in the quality and sustainability of mountain bike trails. With a growing body of quality assured educational resources, and DIRTT-related training and education programs starting to form around Europe, the international certification program was a natural next step for DIRTT. Work on the certification will commence January 2023, leading up to a planned 2025/2026 certification launch coordinated by IMBA Europe.

What will a certification framework mean for trail builders? Firstly, the planned certification framework for mountain bike trail building will be a standard for the competences needed in the sector, serving as a much-needed yardstick for quality assurance of the skills and knowledge held by professionals in the sector. Secondly, a certification framework will add a stronger degree of formal job recognition to the craft of trail building across Europe. 

“We realize that maintaining the status quo might feel like the most convenient alternative for some. Yet, with the massive growth in trail building also comes increased responsibility. The certification project is a golden opportunity for the sector to shape the profile and  position of professional trail building in the future.” – Lars W. Jensen, DIRTT Project Manager

December 8th, 2021, an important peer reviewed journal  was published to help better understand the motivations and behaviours of mountain bikers towards sustainability and the natural environment. The research was led by Napier University, one of IMBA EU’s current project partners of the DIRTT project (Developing Inter-European Resources for Trail building Training).

As a promoter of trail stewardship and sustainable mountain biking, this study provided a better understanding of how mountain bikers interact with the natural environment. The extent in which mountain biking impacts upon the environment is often determined by the riders attitude and behaviour towards sustainability. This study illustrates that European mountain bikers do in fact care about the state of the natural environment, and mostly felt a sense of ownership to their local trails. Furthermore, results from the study suggested that there was a willingness to reduce environmental impact and actively protect nature.

Key findings:

• 98% of respondents reported that sustainability of mountain bike trails was important to them
• 75% believed they had a good understanding of what makes a good sustainable trail
• 60% felt a personal ownership to their local trails
• 91% feel that mountain bikers should volunteer in trail maintenance
• Use of unauthorised trails is greatest in countries where riders reported a shortage of appropriate legal trails.”Trail Use, Motivations, and Environmental Attitudes of 3780 European Mountain Bikers: What Is Sustainable?”.Authored by Napier University Scotland, Developing Mountain Biking in Scotland, IMBA Europe and the Mountain Bike Centre of Scotland.

Full journal article is available here

IMBA Europe will participate in a new European Erasmus project called SEE (Sustainability and Outdoor Education). The SEE project aims to increase outdoor sports participation and enhance the protection of natural landscapes through education on responsible outdoor behavior. This will be achieved through collaboration between outdoor sports professionals and conservation organisations across Europe.

Leave No Trace Ireland served as the lead applicant and will be the project leader of the three-year programme and will be working alongside the following organisations:

• Technical University Munich
• Sport Northern Ireland 
• National Resource Centre for Expertise and Sport Performance 
• The National Institute for Physical Education in Catalonia 
• International Mountain Biking Association Europe 
• Mountaineering Association Tara
• Surf Clube de Viana 
• Folkungaland
• EUROPARC Federation

Over the three years, the project will aim to produce several research reports analysing challenges of sport in nature and the current developments in environmental education for outdoor professionals. An environmental toolkit will be created which will be specifically for environmental education and leadership training. The toolkit will act as a compilation of best practices, case studies and include new educational material for different landscapes/environments, different sports, different participants and different formats.

Several exchange programmes will take place during the project . These exchanges will be based in Serbia, Portugal, France, Sweden and Ireland and will bring together outdoor recreation stakeholders. The toolkit and the methods developed for environmental education will be tested and evaluated before the final publication. The project will finish with an international learning symposium.

Maura Kiely, CEO of Leave No Trace Ireland, says this initiative is poignant and timely, “Covid-19 pandemic and lock-downs have shown the world that access to outdoor sport and recreation are essential to our mental and physical well-being. We need to have a
coordinated approach to outdoor education across Europe to protect the environment for future generations.” Dr Noel Doyle, who will be the project manager, expressed his excitement for the project. “Very rarely do you get the opportunity for this level of collaboration across a variety of countries. The wealth of knowledge and experience presented by the partners will make for an engaging project with significant outputs”.

Mark Torsius, general manager of IMBA Europe, agrees that this project is perfectly timed. ‘European countries that allowed outdoor recreation during lock-downs, witnessed a huge increase in trail usage by mountain bikers’. It’s clear that all people that practice outdoor sports should do this responsibly and minimize their impact on the natural environment. To best way to achieve this is through education. We are excited to work together with a highly regarded institution like Leave no Trace and all other project partners to create a succesful project with a positive impact in many EU countries’.

For more information, visit the SEE-project website or Leave no Trace Ireland

IMBA Europe embraces the proposed new EU Forest Strategy, in alignment with the ambitious vision of the Green New Deal to ensure that the EU becomes a sustainable and climate neutral economy by 2050. This paper highlights the commitments of IMBA to sustainability practices and promotion of environmental education, whilst also providing recommendations and feedback for the EU commission in relation to the EU Forestry strategy.

The comprehensive EU Forest Strategy will look to ensure that forests are addressed in a consistent manner across different policies.  IMBA recognises the importance of the new EU Forest Strategy in protecting our forests through restoration and sustainable management, as well as education. In order to protect the many services forests provide it is important to understand the current pressures of climate change, which aggravate other key drivers of pressures. Forests are hugely important ecosystems to mitigate climate change and biodiversity conservation, as well as supporting local economies, through recreation and sport.

IMBA Europe is aware of the potential impacts on the natural environment and we recognise the seriousness and value in protecting the natural environment through education and protection. As outdoor enthusiasts, it has become increasingly obvious that the forests are under increasing pressure as a direct result of climate change. Other observed pressures from our members is lack of management and fragmentation due to land use changes. The forest based sector should contribute to preserving the natural environment, through avoiding unsustainable practices in order to secure the future welfare and benefits of forest environments.

IMBA EUROPE AND THE NEW EU FOREST STRATEGY

It is both the vision of IMBA Europe and the EU Forest strategy that forests and the forest based sector continue to be a ‘natural home for recreation and learning’. IMBA aims to get more people on bikes through sustainable mountain biking, and increase awareness of the importance of preserving our natural environment through education. It is the mission of IMBA Europe to improve people’s lives through this connection to nature and the environment. It is our responsibility to work towards sustainable riding, sustainable trail building and advocate responsibility and respect for nature, in order to encourage and teach the mountain biking communities of Europe to do the same.

Recent studies have shown that participation in outdoor sports has further increased since the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, particularly in the sales of mountain bikes (Platter, 2021). There are many benefits to participation in outdoor sports, from mental and physical well-being, to the economic benefits in rural areas. A recent and ongoing EU project, ‘The Benefits of Outdoor Sports for Society’ (BOSS), has developed through a multi-disciplinary sequential approach to measure the benefits of outdoor sports for society. From 133 relevant studies over a period of 15 years, evidence of the benefits of outdoor sports has been categorized into six broad categories (Eigenschenk, B, et al, 2018).

• Physical health
• Mental and wellbeing
• Education and life-long learning
• Active citizenship
• Crime and anti-social behaviour
• Additional benefits

There is growing evidence of the health and mental benefits of being in nature, or having contact with the natural environment (Brink et al, 2016). Furthermore, outdoor sports, such as mountain biking, can be seen as a key way to engage people with ‘health enhancing physical activity, (HEPA) which is a priority of the European commission and member states.

IMBA EUROPE’S PROPOSALS ON THE EU FOREST STRATEGY

As mentioned above, IMBA Europe is aware of the current pressures forests are under from climate change, and the associated key drivers. The EU Forest Strategy will seek measures to avoid or correct unsustainable practices, in order to increase the protection of forests and restoration efforts to achieve the EU’s Climate and Biodiversity objectives. IMBA Europe advocates for sustainable trail building practices, and achieving greater access to forests in order to avoid unsustainable practices, such as illegal trail building. We believe that we need to work towards inclusive access, instead of access that is exclusively for hikers/walkers in these natural environments. In order to achieve this goal of more inclusive access to forests, we believe there needs to be greater investment by the EU commission, and provision of better incentives (e.g. financial resources) for both forest public and private owners/ managers to manage forests appropriately for a variety of targeted audiences. When designed well, mountain bike (MTB) trails meet user needs and encourage responsible use of trails, which minimises impact on the environment. A mitigating measure to enhance the recreational carrying capacity of forests is to improve trail accessibility, and better recreational trail infrastructure.

Included in the EU Forest Strategies goals, is to ensure that a synergy is found between socio-economic interests in forests, and the protection of forests. In order to achieve this synergy, and protect the future welfare of our forests, education in sustainable forestry and practices will be essential. IMBA is currently working on several projects working towards educating and implementing sustainable environmental practices in the outdoors. The SEE project (Sustainability and Environmental Education in Outdoor Sports) is a 3 year Erasmus project, funded by the EU, which will promote education in and through sport with special focus on skills development for outdoor sports professionals such as outdoor sports trainers, guides, or instructors. The SEE Project will also help to promote increased voluntary activities in sport, together with social inclusion, equal opportunities and awareness of the importance of health-enhancing physical activity all in a frame of sustainable development and in line with the new Green Deal for Europe. As highlighted in the EU Forestry Strategy, ‘strong research and innovative agenda to improve knowledge of forests and optimize composition, structure, management and use’ is necessary to continue and promote outdoor sports, which is what projects like the SEE project are aiming to achieve. Synergy between the environment and outdoors sports.

LOCAL ECONOMIC BENEFITS OF MOUNTAIN BIKING TOURISM

Sustainable recreational sport and tourism will be a key driver in supporting local economies in a post covid era. The recent policy recommendations from the Commission for Natural Resources in relation to the policy ‘Towards more sustainable tourism for EU cities and regions’, highlights tourism as a strategic sector, a tool for integration and a key driver of social and economic recovery. Mountain biking as a sport and recreational activity has grown rapidly over the past two decades, with an increased demand for further development and marketing of mountain bike trails and parks. This increase in demand allows for further job creation within the mountain bike industry. Greater access and inclusivity to forests will encourage local economies to invest more in the infrastructure surrounding the forests, through hospitality, bike shops, guiding services and accommodation. Investing in greater outdoor sport inclusivity within forests, aligns with the EU forestry strategies planning for forests of the future – “new training, skilled jobs that reflect multiple functions”. An example of such training within the mountain biking sector, which would lead to forest based industry jobs, is the current EU project ‘Developing Intereuropean Resources for Trail building Training’. The DIRTT project aims to develop an educational framework and professional training program for people active in the trail building sector, addressing the needs of professionals and volunteers in the field of planning, design, construction, maintenance and management of mountain bike trails. IMBA Europe is one of the partners in the project, including advocacy organisations, sports associations, governmental and educational institutions, tourism, as well as private enterprises in the MTB trail building sector.

In summary, in alignment with the EU Forest Strategy, IMBA Europe aims to ensure that a synergy is found between socio-economic interests in forests, and the protection of biodiversity in forests. To achieve this synergy, and see that all stakeholders will continue to benefit from our forests, education in sustainable outdoor practices is essential.  IMBA Europe will continue to advocate for easy access to sustainable mountain bike and shared-use trails, from close-to-home rides to iconic, backcountry experiences through working closely with land managers and governing bodies. Through our focus on creating and catalyzing more trails close to home, we aim to serve mountain bikers as well as economic, health and quality-of-life needs of growing urban population centers, struggling industrial towns and everything in between.  Our ongoing mission is to improve people’s lives with better health, climate and economics through mountain biking.

References:

• Martin Platter (9. März 2021) Schweizerische Fachstelle Velo und E-Bike SFVE, fachstelle-velo.ch
• Eigenschenk, B., Thomann, A., McClure, M. (2018). Benefits of Outdoor Sports for Society (BOSS). Literature review. European Network of Outdoor Sports: Brussels.
• ten Brink, P., Mutafoglu, K., Schweitzer, J-P., Kettunen M., Twigger-Ross, C., Baker, J., Kuipers, Y., Emonts, M., Tyrväinen, L., Hujala, T., & Ojala, A. (2016). The Health and Social Benefits of Nature and Biodiversity Protection. A report for the European Commission, Institute for European Environmental Policy, London/Brussels.
• Sustainability and Outdoor Education, https://www.leavenotraceireland.org/see-project/
• Developing Inter European Resources for Trailbuilding Training https://www.imba-europe.org/news/dirtt-project-%E2%80%93-path-sustainabl…

The project consortium involved in the DIRTT project (Developing Intereuropean Resources for Trail Building Training) delivered its first research results. Edinburgh Napier University (ENU) conducted an MTB trail sector survey, followed by a consumer survey. The trail sector survey was aimed at trail building companies, the forestry sector, tourism professionals and other stakeholders involved in the planning, design, construction, maintenance, and management of MTB trails. In total, 121 survey respondents from 16 different European countries provided data suitable for inclusion in this report.

The research highlights the skill gaps currently present in the sector and that there is a wide range of training needs across all stages of trail development and management, with construction and maintenance topics highlighted as the highest priority. The majority of stakeholders who took part in the survey agreed that there is a strong demand for training that is currently not available. Employers indicated that it is difficult to recruit skilled / competent employees and that Introducing certified training in the sector would be of significant benefit and increase the quality and sustainability of mountain bike trails.

Key themes for the training requirements of the industry included but were not limited to trail sustainability, safety, drainage, working with different soil types and documentation. The needs of volunteers were similar although their needs were mostly focussed on building good trails utilising hand tools rather than machinery.

Dr Tom Campbell, Edinburgh Napier University, said of the research: “Overall, there was broad consensus on the topics to be included for learning and that the overall trail product will be improved through increased training and development of the workforce. This bodes well for the development of courses and helps us understand the needs and aspirations of the industry – both on a professional and voluntary basis.”

RIDER’S TRAIL PREFERENCES & ATTITUDES

To ensure future training programmes and trail guidelines are also tailored to the kind of experience mountain bikers seek nowadays, ENU conducted a second survey targeted at the end consumer, the rider. In total, 4324 survey respondents from 28 different European countries provided data suitable for inclusion in this report. The results of this survey help the consortium partners to understand trail user objectives and preferences. It also gives better insights in the kind of trail characteristics and features mountain bikers like to see on various types of trails. A distinction is also made between rider ability and which trail characteristics they felt would allow them to progress.

Trail riding was the most popular discipline, selected by 76% of respondents. Enduro was the next most popular choice, selected by 63% of respondents. This result also reflected in the type of trails respondents ride most frequently. Most mountain bikers ride either easier or more difficult singletrack trails with connection to nature, descents, optional lines, and surface quality being ranked consistently high among all trail types. The research also showed that the majority of the respondents (90%) would like to progress their riding ability but that a significant proportion of riders (37%) indicated having insufficient access to trails suitable to facilitate their skills progression. Many participants (65%) indicated riding purpose-built trails was important or very important to them”.

When asked about people’s motivation to ride a mountain bike, most mentioned reasons have not changed that much compared to earlier studies. Exercise, connection to nature, play, challenge, and escape (solitude) made it into the top 5. Mountain bikers feel connected to nature and would like to protect nature with many putting environmental concern above trail quality in most areas. However, this is not always reflected in the actions or expectations of respondents where some education may be required to align their intentions with their actions.

Thomas Larsen Schmidt, president of IMBA Europe and consultant at DGI, said of the rider survey: “The results clearly show how broad the spectrum of mountain bike trails and rider’s trail preference has become. We now have a better understanding what kind of trail characteristics different types of riders, based on their experience, need to progress their skills. We also learned a bit more about mountain biker’s nature connectedness and are excited about the next phase of the project where we will start implementing all key findings of both reports into this educational framework.”

NEXT STEPS

Both reports will be used in the next stage of the project where the partners will develop an educational framework which will form the basis of all future DIRTT courses. The first course from the DIRTT project, one of the requirements of the current EU Erasmus + funding, is a level 5 EQF (European Qualification Framework), 900 hour course, consisting of several modules.

The key findings of the MTB trail sector and consumer (rider) survey have recently been shared with the national and European reference groups. These reference groups consist of external stakeholders actively involved in the MTB trail development sector. The reference groups submit input and provide feedback on the preliminary results of the project and will help to implement training programs at the national level at the final stage of the project.

PROJECT PARTNERS

• Fagskolen Tinius Olsen (NO)
• Edinburgh Napier University (UK)
• Agueda Camara Municipal (PT)
• DGI Outdoor (DK)
• Scottish Cycling (UK
• Opplysningskontoret for Terrengsykling (NO)
• BikePlan AG (CH)
• IMBA Europe (NL)