Edinburgh Napier University

  The mountain bike trail user survey forms part of the "Developing Intereuropean Resources for Trail builder Training (DIRTT)" project, funded under the ERASMUS+ programme, which aims to develop an educational framework and professional training programme for the mountain bike trail sector. In total, 4324 survey respondents (gender: 21% female, 78% male, 0.1% transgender, 0.1% other; age: 16-18yrs = 3%, 19-25yrs = 7%, 26-35 years = 26%, 36-45yrs =33%, 46-55yrs = 23%, >55yrs = 8%) from 28 different European countries provided data suitable for inclusion in this report. The main findings of this report are that most mountain bikers ride easier single track trails or more difficult single track trails, with connection to nature, descents, optional/multiple lines, and surface quality being ranked consistently high among all trail types. Mountain bikers also 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. Lastly, many riders recognise the importance of voluntary trail maintenance, and further that those who are not able or willing to volunteer would be willing to pay for trail maintenance and construction.