Spring 2025 Newsletter
The new pump track at the dirt jumps is open!
Using member fees, we trucked in 80 cubic yards of soil and rebuilt the pump track. Special thanks to Brian Samhammer's heroic efforts for leading the work and dedicating countless volunteer hours to hand-finishing all the berms and rollers.
Let's keep this amazing community asset rolling for years to come. As a reminder, please abide by the following rules:
bicycles only! no RC cars, no E Dirt bikes, Pit Bikes, etc
wear a helmet
ride within your limits
please don't ride in opposite directions when there is another rider present
avoid walking or running on the riding surface
don't walk up or down the sides of the obstacles or turns
no dogs
never ride it when wet
RVMBA has officially awarded the construction contract for the Mt A-Line trail to local trail building experts, Earthworx, LLC. Construction is slated to begin on July 1, 2025!
This significant milestone is the result of incredible teamwork, meticulous planning, and the generous support of several key contributors. We extend our sincere gratitude to the Oregon Recreational Trails Program for their substantial $117K grant, to everyone who has supported our past raffles, and to our members for their ongoing commitment, which has allowed us to build our reserves. Thanks to this collective effort, we've reached a project budget of $150K.
While we're incredibly close, our projected total cost is $175K. We'll be launching fundraising efforts soon to bridge this gap and bring this amazing trail to life. The trail designs are finalized, and we're eager to turn these plans into rideable reality. Stay tuned for updates on how you can help!
Mountain biking trails have significant economic impacts
Singletracks recently published an encouraging article confirming what a lot of us already instinctively knew: communities that invest in mountain biking see millions in local economic impact. A new study gives specific economic impact data and reveals that towns with strong trail networks benefit from:
Increased Visitor Spending – Non-local mountain bikers spend a national average of $416 per visit on lodging, dining, and retail spending.
Mountain biking events and races can generate over $1 million in direct spending.
Trail users often extend their stays, leading to higher occupancy rates for local hotels and short-term rentals.
Boosted Local Businesses – Mountain biking tourism can generate over $10 million annually in some areas.
Job Creation – Towns with thriving mountain bike trails support hundreds of jobs in tourism, retail, and outdoor industries.
Higher Property Values – Homes near trails often see increased demand and rising values.
For more info, check out the report.
Rogue Valley Mountain Bike Association is working hard to ensure our region benefits from this growing outdoor economy. From advocating for improved trail access to leading maintenance efforts that keep our trails in top shape, RVMBA is making sure mountain biking continues to thrive in the Rogue Valley. Investing in trails means investing in our local economy, outdoor recreation, and quality of life.
Upcoming Events
DEVO DH Race Series
Ashland DEVO is hosting a DH race series. Open to the public, low key races with a community gathering afterwards. Schedule for the rest of the series:
4/23 - PBJ/Cartwheel - MOTR
5/7 - Liz/Rabbit Hole
5/22 - Rock N Roll - Prescott Park
6/4 - BTI
April 26th - Rogue Valley Bike Swap
At the Grove (1195 E. Main St, Ashland) starting at noon.
More info here
May 16-18 - Bicycle Film Fest/Spring Fling (Super D/ GromDuro)
Ashland DEVO is bringing the Bicycle Film Fest to town along side the Spring Fling. Along with the films, there will be tons of other event this weekend ranging from clinics, races, alleycat, and more. Info and registration HERE.
May 17 - RVMBA Party @ Growler Guys 6-10 pm
RVMBA will be hosting a party during the action packed weekend at Growler Guys featuring some activities:
Trackstand Competition: $20 entry fee (winner takes half, RVMBA gets half)
Presentation of the "Trail gnome of the year" award
May 31 - Medford Open Streets
Medford Open Streets is a free community event leveraging the city’s largest public space - its streets - to walk, bike, roll, and discover active transportation while fostering civic pride, stimulating economic development, and showcasing the community diversity. RVMBA will be there tabling. Come by and say hi!
June 8 - Mt A Hill Climb
47th annual hill climb. Ride 18 miles and over a mile of vert! more info here
July 6 - Plaza to Peak to Plaza
First year of this unofficial event. See how fast you can pedal up to the Mt A summit, grab a bracelet and ride down the east side trails. Free entry, honor system. End your ride at Gil's
On going group rides:
Thurs - 6:45 pm-ish - Bike Kraft (541 476-4935), Grants Pass. Call for more info, or check their FB page
Tues - 5:30 pm - The Handlebar, Ashland. Meet at the shop.
Wed - 5:30 pm - Cycle Sport, Ashland. Meet at the shop