These new mountain bikes though had greater flexibility. The introduction of the mountain bicycle revived a stagnant bicycle industry. Advances in technology in materials, suspension and mechanical advantage continue. Now there are some 10-15 million mountain bicyclists, more than 300 local mountain bike clubs, and an International organization of more than 12,000 individuals. The sport is diverse, encompassing a range of riding interests and styles from the occasional bikepath rider to world class, competitive athletes.
Recreational riders make up the bulk of the sport's numbers.
They are served by six national, monthly magazines specifically aimed at mountain bike riders. This is my constituency, and although I hiked and ran on backcountry trails, it was mountain bike advocacy that made me a trail activist. A Vision for Shared Use Community Trail Systems Trails are a precious community resource. They provide opportunities for nature observation and study, health and fitness, urban escape and a variety of other purposes. As a community we should strive to keep the trails open and in good condition for everyone.