By Scott A. Keys
The Western Front
Riding over wet leaves, through puddles and up hills is all a part of mountain biking in Bellingham.
"Mountain biking was a nice change of pace," 20-year mountain biker Troy Critchlow said. "The sport is very challenging, because you would be going as fast as you can on terrain that you've never seen. It is also a way to keep physically fit."
The sport is growing in popularity due to bikes being so advanced, easy to ride and inexpensive, Kulshan Cycles' Erik Moe said.
"People also like to stay in shape and want good clean fun. There is a lack of recreational areas and people do not like to breathe exhaust on crowded roads, so they ride trails."
Whatcom Independent Moun-tain Peddlers (WHIMPS) is an organization whose staff believe all grades of people can ride.
"Bellingham is the number one mountain biking area in the nation," WHIMPS Vice President Tom Anderson said. "Bellingham has such technical rides and beautiful surrounding area, any level from beginner to expert can ride and feel totally satisfied."
WHIMPS has worked with the Bellingham Parks Department for quite some time, Anderson said.
"The Parks Department calls us about trails that they are thinking about making and we as a group decide to donate our time to trail maintenance that allows our organization to have a good relationship with the Parks Department."
"Joining an organization like WHIMPS is the best way to learn new trails," WHIMPS President and National Advocacy Director of Kona Bikes Mark Peterson said.
"Also, riding with more experienced people helps to improve your techniques, like popping a wheely, to ride over a log, or to learn how to ride through mud puddles."
WHIMPS also would like more student involvement in local recreational mountain biking.
"Many people come to the Northwest for trails," Peterson said. "There is a new group of students every year who are young and energetic. Mountain biking is a relatively low-cost sport. All you need is fuel for your body. Students should get involved and take some responsibility of trail maintenance and also that would increase their trail awareness."
WHIMPS has two scheduled rides, 10 a.m. Saturday at Lake Padden, which is the official group ride, and 5:15 p.m. Wednesday at Bill McDonald Parkway.
"Anyone from beginner to intermediate to advanced can participate in these rides," Anderson said.
Being aware of all the trail rules is important in biking, Peterson said.
"Proper etiquette such as passing hikers is important," Peterson said. "People who mountain bike need to be aware and respectful, they need to take the time to learn the etiquette of the sport. Trail and riding opportunities can go away fast if there are to many negative conflicts between the different trail users.
"Overall, mountain biking is one of the best cardiovascular workouts," Peterson said. "You have arms pulling, legs churning, hips going back and forth, chest flexing, and your hands squeezing. It's a full body workout."
