The International Mountain Bicycling Association (IMBA) has teamed up with component manufacturers SRAM, RockShox and Fox Racing Shox to launch a European offshoot.
IMBA Europe, which already has 14 countries signed up including Germany and the Czech Republic, aims to help riders, trail builders, land managers and everyone else involved with the growth and sustainability of the sport.
The top five targets are:
- To represent mountain bikers’ interests at a European level
- To secure resources, develop and produce know-how
- To make the use of resources and opportunities more effective
- To disseminate and share expertise and best practice
- To guard trail access at a European level
- To support existing, and facilitate the development of new, national mountain biking advocacy associations
IMBA development director Rich Cook was joined at the launch by trials legend Hans Rey, whose Flow Country concept – purpose-built trails aimed at riders of all skill levels – is set to play a big part in the development of off-road routes throughout Europe.
Rey said: “IMBA is important because it gives a voice to mountain bikers. It can be much better than it is now.” He went on to describe the way in which ski resorts could make more of their summer season, saying: “They’re building skate parks, ping-pong tables. Why not build mountain bike trails too?”
IMBA has already spawned national groups in Canada and the UK. We look forward to the developments across Europe. Stay tuned for more information.