Why you Portland MTB'ers should join PUMP and get involved...

[toowacky]

***Note: This is a msg that I posted to my regular riding buddies in Portland, encouraging them to join PUMP. I recently joined after riding here since about '2000 without being a member-- I just didn't feel the need to be a member, but that has changed. I've posted it here because this is something I wanted to share with the PDX crowd at large, and challenge everyone to get involved. Issues like Forest Park, Gateway Green, etc., will benefit from a little bit of your time and money.

A big THANKS goes out to all that PUMP and its members have done in the past and I look forward to being a part of what I see as a new momentum in PUMP and the Portland cycling/MTB scene.

Portland-- Let's stand up, be counted and make things happen!

(My apologies, veteran PUMP members, if any statements need clarification/correction-- any errors are not intentional.)

Tom

**************************************************

So the times they are a changin'...

I've recently spent my $20 to join PUMP. I think you should, too. In the past I hadn't seen much value, but recently I've changed my take on the organization.

Here's a few reasons why:

-PUMP is a way for your mtb voice to be counted. It provides a way to make the mtb rider data quantitative in Portland.

-PUMP is the IMBA affiliate for the area (IMBA being a big player in the Gateway Green project, for example), and can leverage IMBA for access/legal/advocacy issues.

-PUMP is changing:
--Board of directors: Members vote this month on adding the PDX-MTB members to the board (Tom Archer,et al), as well as making room for people like Erik Tonkin to the board.
--Name: PUMP will be rebranded, including a name change. This will allow some old prejudices to hopefully disolve that were associated w/ the PUMP name, along with reaching out to other off-road members like DH/FR/CX
--Members-- New members like Frank Selker (Behind the recent FP push) is a new member, along with Erik Tonkin (racer, LBS owner, respected voice w/in eyes of local govt)

-PUMP members maintain trails we ride, and we should support or otherwise actively participate in that maintenance, including the following trails (RPR/RPR2, Brown's Camp, WRT, Forest Park, Siouxon, Lewis River, Buck Creek area, Stub, etc.)

So, in the past I really didn't want to be involved. But I think with the addition of the PDX-MTB (and their IMBA relationships/connections), the potential new board blood and the general new momentum gathering in Portland, that PUMP (or whatever it will be named) will be a force that will help provide many new opportunities and maintain existing riding areas. Gateway Green, Forest Park, supporting continued riding at RPR, other skills areas, etc., these are all reasaons to be excited about PUMP.

I'm not saying it's perfect, but the time is right to help be a part of it and make it into what we want it to be...

Tom

PS: Here's a link (MS Word Doc) to the proposed by-laws. In it, it gives a bio of each of the proposed new board members, and it's cool to see a FR advocate among them!

http://preview.tinyurl.com/ajmbqs (MS Word Doc)
http://www.pumpclub.org/

[thorir]

I have been in the same boat as toowacky for a similar amount of time. Happy for the trail work I'd occasionally come across that PUMP did, but generally unimpressed by the organization as a whole and never saw the need to join.

The link you posted detailing the upcoming vote on Feb 24th has me reconsidering this conclusion.

With all the projects coming down the line: gateway green, forest park etc. it looks like Portland actually stands a chance to get some real singletrack within the city limits and I want to help. I think the consolidation of the various advocacy groups and other proposed changes to PUMP may turn it into an organization capable of really improving off road cycling in this town and hopefully not JUST for the XC users this time.

I believe it is worth $20 to have a voice in this and vote for the proposed changes. After all, even if the vote doesn't go through I'll still be there to be a voice outside of the XC only interests.

Looks like my $.02 is going to cost more like $20 this time, but I can deal with that. As an ex-hater I suggest you reconsider as well.

[Sasquatch]

Here's something to consider. Why not make it cheaper, or even free to join PUMP?

The DOD currently has 479 members.
That's because we don't currently have any membership fee. We don't provide much to our members beyond group rides, trailwork opportunities and alot of fun, so we operate on random donations as needed.

If PUMP has needs driven by a budget, reducing membership cost may not work, but if your main goal is to build numbers so that you have a stronger voice, free membership may be the answer. Think about it, the DOD is in Eugene, a city of 160,000, with under 1/4 million people in the "metropolitan" area. Portland is almost 600,000 with over 2 million people in your metropolitan area. That could mean up to 1500-2000 PUMP members.

Of course, the numbers may not tell the whole story. Out of the 479 DOD members, there are only about 100 that actually attend a DOD ride or event throughout the year, the rest just sign into our group and receive emails.

Charging a fee may increase the percentage of "active" members, but it might not. It also might give people the idea that if they pay some money, then they have done their part.

If we instituted a fee for DOD membership, we'd lose the bulk of our numbers for sure. However, they would be the people who never participated or helped move the local MTB scene forward, so we probably wouldn't miss them, except when we need to boast about our large members(hip).

Will the money be needed to serve the membership best? If so, go for it, but I thought I'd offer up a different model.

[hydrogeek]

The current reason for membership fees is to pay for things like food and drinks during work parties and events, camp sites for campouts, etc. One of the ideas being discussed internally is to hire a full, or at least part time, advocate for the club. That person could be a dedicated trail advocate in the region, much like an IMBA representative. That would take the pressure off the current board members that all have full time jobs elsewhere, families, and other responsibilities. Imagine what would be happening in the region if we as MTBers had a fraction of the political clout as the BTA?

[OldHouseMan]

I've met some great people through pump over the years but have been kinda turned off by whats been going on in the club as of late. I've been following this a little and I haven't seen anything said about just "Having fun". My membership has ran out and I probably wont renew it.

[jgusta]

Tom, thanks for posting. I just joined in appreciation for some of the trail building/work/maintainence that has been done in the PDX area over the years. Even though this is a pretty small contribution, I would rather see it go towards maintaining and building trails and/or advocacy, not campouts and snacks please.

Thanks again and hope others are able to contribute and join as well.

Jon G.

[wheiberg]

There is an amazing amount of energy in the PDX mountain biking community right now. The ground swell is huge. The re-branded PUMP is going to be playing a huge role. Outside of advocacy, fun is a major point that is going to be addressed. When it comes down to it, mountain biking is about riding and throwing back a few beers with your buddies as you fabricate stories about the ride you just finished. If it wasn't fun, none of you would be here to read this. The club will be spending tons of energy not only on advocacy and making sure we have options inside the Portland metro area for biking, but also making sure that being apart of the club is provides a great social aspect

[free-agent]

I've also been living and riding in Portland for 10 years now, and have never considered joining PUMP until recently. In the past I have thought of them mostly as a social club due to the lack of information going out about the advocacy side of things. I am really excited about the changes taking place, and the obvious desire to evolve and increase membership and make things happen in PDX.

I did the PUMP/IMBA dual membership.....

See you all at the next meeting for the vote on the bylaw changes.

[amtbr]

PUMP would have more members if you guys did away with a membership fee, your justification for a membership fee is laughable. Snacks for trail work? Seriously? I thought of joining PUMP many years ago, however, having to pay money to ride with people and do trail work, regardless of the fee, doesn't jive well with me and I'm sure quite a lot of others.

[pedalitup]

I'm all for free "gateway green" at work parties instead of cheesy snacks.

[Hack]

I won't be joining. I have friends that have checked out they're meetings and they aren't very supportive of al types of riding.

[Snake Muesl]

Originally Posted by Hack

I won't be joining. I have friends that have checked out they're meetings and they aren't very supportive of al types of riding.

Exactly. It's why you should join.

[free-agent]

Originally Posted by amtbr

PUMP would have more members if you guys did away with a membership fee, your justification for a membership fee is laughable. Snacks for trail work? Seriously? I thought of joining PUMP many years ago, however, having to pay money to ride with people and do trail work, regardless of the fee, doesn't jive well with me and I'm sure quite a lot of others.

If you could earmark your $20 for advocacy, what would you like to see it spent on?

[free-agent]

Originally Posted by Hack

I won't be joining. I have friends that have checked out they're meetings and they aren't very supportive of al types of riding.

being expanded here in PDX if you do not become a voice in an advocacy group? PUMP is a group of individuals doing individual projects. Join. Have a voice. Start a project. Get others to work with you on your project.
Are you into the FR/dirtjumping? If so, now is a good time to join and get involved with projects such as the Gateway Green project. In politics, there is strength in numbers.

Get involved, or keep driving an hour or more to ride....

[free-agent]

Originally Posted by pedalitup

I'm all for free "gateway green" at work parties instead of cheesy snacks.

I look forward to meeting you when dirt gets broke....

That being said, I have done work parties, and having some snacks and beverages was much appreciated. It's tough work. I also assume that snacks for work parties is a tiny part of the budget, so lets not get carried away with the reasoning "I'm not joining because I don't want all my money going for cheetos." Join. Voice your opinion. Be a part of the change you want to see.

[hydrogeek]

Ok, my comments regarding snacks seemed to give some of you an excuse to hone in as a reason to not join PUMP. They do more than buy snacks with the membership money. It's also used for advocacy, support the March Scrappy Ride, pay for the Lucky Lab meeting room rental, campground fees for summer camp outs, etc. They stretch the little money they get from members a long way. My point was that the more people that join, the more PUMP can accomplish as a unified voice. As I discussed earlier, the idea of having enough members to fund a part time of full time advocate could get MTBing to a whole new level in the Portland region. Let’s think about that for an ultimate goal. Right now we need accomplish what we can with the volunteers that we have.

Just a couple of examples of what PUMP has done historically in regards to advocacy: kept our foot in the door in Forest Park, has kept access to Powell Butte, and were partners in keeping several of the trails open to MTBs within the Mt. Hood Wilderness legislation. And what about Scappoose? All trails built and maintained by PUMP members and volunteers through an agreement with the property owner. When the property owner threatened to close it down, PUMP members met with the property owner to keep our access.

In regards to other types of riding, the majority of people in the club do ride XC. But there are new members are coming in that do other types of riding. In conjunction with WTF, there are people that are building free-ride and a skills park oriented trails in Vernonia right now. The off-road unicycle guys are making a presence in the club. Cyclocross has been growing in the club in the last two years as well as road riding.

A club reflects its membership. If you want the club to reflect a specific type of riding, then get involved and make it happen. But we need people to join and participate to further MTBing in the Portland region regardless of style. A unified voice in the region will get us much further in accomplishing our goal, which is the same regardless of bikes suspension travel, more trail access.

I would ask everyone to please put your preconceived ideas or notions aside and join with PUMP (or the soon to be re-invention of). Donate $20 to PUMP, or do the $35 PUMP/IMBA combo. You can join online at pumpclub.org. While your there, read through the website and see what is going on. After joining, come to the Lucky Lab on the last Tuesday of each month for a beer and get involved. Make it your club, regardless of the type of riding that you do. If you don't want to be involved that’s cool too. Your membership will add documented numbers to the MTB movement and that gets politicians and decision maker’s attention.

We saw a lot of new members at last months meeting along with a lot of new momentum. I hope to see more this month too.

[wheiberg]

There is definitely a huge interest to attract and cater to XC/DJ/DH/FR/cross/short track, etc. The off road scene is quite diverse and the club wants to represent the entire community. When it comes to advocacy, we all stand to benefit. Come down to the lucky lab at 7:30 pm on Tuesday the 24th, see we all the talk is about, have a beer or two, meet like minded people and let's get Portland on the map for biking off pavement!

[toowacky]

Originally Posted by Hack

I won't be joining. I have friends that have checked out they're meetings and they aren't very supportive of al types of riding.

When was the last time they checked it out? And have you, personally? There's a lot of new things happening lately-- projects that include other types of riding than strictly XC-- and as others have said, become the change you want to see. I used to feel pretty much the way you did, which is why I didn't join for the 10 yrs since I moved here. But the energy that I've witnessed first hand has finally got me excited about the group-- that and wanting to give back to the group that has supported a lot of the trails that I've ridden over the years.

I can't say PUMP group rides will replace the rides w/ my regular crew. The social riding aspect isn't the on the top of the list of reasons why I joined, as in the past I didn't want to join a club that was (perceived by me as strictly) an XC club. I've met a few people and can say that there are others in PUMP who are like-minded as myself and my riding buddies, i.e., people who love an epic trail ride, but also can spend a day shuttling Post Canyon or riding Black Rock and have a blast doing so....

I do see the benefit of being involved with other riders to help the MTB community as a whole maintain trails and encourage all disciplines of MTB riding. The Gateway Green project as an example... it would be awesome to include a FR area, a killer XC loop w/ tough switchbacks and rockgardens, a CX course and a buffed out single-track beginner area that would attract new riders to the sport-- something for all.

The XC racer can benefit from improving his technical/descending skills at Black Rock, and the DH guy can benefit from being in better fitness from spinning a loop at Brown's Camp. We're all bikers, and PUMP's membership is becoming more diverse and maturing into an organization that includes more disciplines, including whatever you (the Portland area MTB'ers) ride. I can't do this alone, and I'm not just interested in XC trails. Join, come to the meeting and get involved.

[juice]

Originally Posted by hydrogeek

As I discussed earlier, the idea of having enough members to fund a part time of full time advocate could get MTBing to a whole new level in the Portland region. Let’s think about that for an ultimate goal. Right now we need accomplish what we can with the volunteers that we have.

YES! You guys should absolutely consider hiring a staffer to work on advocacy and develop new trail projects/ideas. It's the only way you will get enough new trail in the future.

Look to your north for a case study. Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance in Seattle hired our first staffer in 2001, I believe. We did some things right, and we did some things the hard way, but it worked. Now we have a staff of 4, and finally have lots of meaningful new trail projects in the works, which represent many different riding styles.

It wasn't easy, and it takes money. But it's worth every penny. Working with government agencies takes a lot of time and follow-through. You need to meet during work hours, and you have to keep the heat on for years. You need someone who can really learn the process, the politics, permits, and where to get grants to build public singletrack. Volunteers rock, but staffers are there to provide continuity when times get tough, volunteers get slammed at work, have kids, move away, etc. Simply put, you need a staff. Start with a half-timer, and go from there.

It won't be easy, but it'll be a great ride. Start now when the economy sucks so that when things rebound you've got a solid foundation and can grow faster than the anti-mountain bike folks (I'm sure you have then in Portland, just like we do in Seattle).

Do it, the sky's the limit!

If you disagree with the direction of the organization, pay your $20 and send in a note about what you want to see - that'll really get your point across. How much do you spend a year on tires? $20 really isn't that much to ask. If you can afford it, donate more than just $20.

This is a long-term game, time's a wastin'. As someone who spends a lot of time in Portland, it's great to hear things are moving and there's a lot of energy down there.

Justin Vander Pol
Board Member and Former Executive Director, Evergreen Mountain Bike Alliance.

[jgusta]

Originally Posted by Hack

I won't be joining. I have friends that have checked out they're meetings and they aren't very supportive of al types of riding.

That is what I might of said as well Hack. I could care less about the "socialness" of PUMP, but there are many things in the wings are far as new trail and FR areas in the metro area that are worth being supportive of and stating your voice as a member. Unless you don't wan't any new trails/riding areas in town?

JG

[Hack]

Are you guys harassing me?

[free-agent]

Originally Posted by Hack

Are you guys harassing me?

Now get onboard......or else.

[toowacky]

Originally Posted by Hack

Are you guys harassing me?

Nah, do what you will, but I'm inferring from your comments/photos that you hang w/ the THC/Westside Freeride crew and personally, I'd love to see PUMP work w/ that talent in the future to build some legit, kick-ass, local FR/DH trails.

Some sweet pics on the blog, BTW. Including the 'Fonzie' shot...

[thorir]

Exactly. When I gave PUMP my $20 the other night I put in the PayPal comments field that it was a one time donation so that I could vote for the new collaboration efforts, and that I would only continue to contribute if the group becomes more inclusive of all trail users including FR/DH.

I plan to be an active reminder that not everyone in Portland rides fixies.

[Hack]

Originally Posted by toowacky

Nah, do what you will, but I'm inferring from your comments/photos that you hang w/ the THC/Westside Freeride crew and personally, I'd love to see PUMP work w/ that talent in the future to build some legit, kick-ass, local FR/DH trails.

Some sweet pics on the blog, BTW. Including the 'Fonzie' shot...

I try to ride everything up, down and around town. So I'm not just a shuttle type. Though my van can hold 8 bikes.

[jeff spicoli]

We don't need no stinkin clubs. We need advocacy. PUMP is a joke it's all about campouts and cliques. Ever read their list serve ? There are too many egos and the inner fighting is pathetic. I got a family IMBA membership and I hope my money goes to someone who's gonna be my voice for keeping trails open.

As a former member of the club I quit after finding out that other than the camp out fee's, snacks and monthly meeting room rental fees where does the club membership money go?? Nowhere...it sits in their account while they cry "could'a, would'a, should'a"...seriously.

[GlowBoy]

I'd like to echo the comments of hydrogeek and Snake Muesl regarding being the change you want to see. I'm one of the "traditional" XC riders and don't personally have any interest in DJ or DH/FR ... but I also think there is strength in numbers AND strength in diversity. If more non-"traditional" riders join PUMP, changing its makeup, then PUMP will reflect their interests too. Gaining better representation of our point of view is exactly why so many of us have joined Forest Park Conservancy over the last couple of months.

I welcome all stripes of riders to join. We'll be able to accomplish much more together than we can separately.

[wingsno19]

I agree with most of you that the club has been one sided in the past. I am a Freerider/Downhiller and I will be there Tuesday working to get on the board of PUMP to help all styles of riding thrive in PDX. Come on out and get involved. Voting for the new board positions means more diverse riding in PDX! We need your support!

-Paul

[Jaybo]

Is not a pretty thing and something I typically avoid. But I do enjoy trail advocacy....and really should do more trail work. My bad. I'm sometimes annoyed when I joined group rides. One group of guys spent the whole darn ride talking about Lance Armstrong and The Tour De Stupid. I truly wanted to find a sharp rock and end it right there. I must admit, Mountain Bike Oregon had some nice folks (except for the DOD members ).

Jaybo

[jgusta]

Originally Posted by Jaybo

Is not a pretty thing and something I typically avoid. But I do enjoy trail advocacy....and really should do more trail work. My bad. I'm sometimes annoyed when I joined group rides. One group of guys spent the whole darn ride talking about Lance Armstrong and The Tour De Stupid. I truly wanted to find a sharp rock and end it right there. I must admit, Mountain Bike Oregon had some nice folks (except for the DOD members ).

Jaybo

Come on Bo, drop down the 20 bones to PUMP in recognition of the little trails we have around here at least. I did, just for my appreciation of those who maintain the trails at Powell Butte and to those who build and maintain all the trails at Scappoose. Without these "get me by" and fun to ride trails in and around town, I think I would be instutionalized or divorced to say the least by now.

It's payback time

JG

[free-agent]

Originally Posted by Jaybo

Is not a pretty thing and something I typically avoid. But I do enjoy trail advocacy....and really should do more trail work. My bad. I'm sometimes annoyed when I joined group rides. One group of guys spent the whole darn ride talking about Lance Armstrong and The Tour De Stupid. I truly wanted to find a sharp rock and end it right there. I must admit, Mountain Bike Oregon had some nice folks (except for the DOD members ).

Jaybo

Your spandex shtick is tired. No one gives a sh!t if you are annoyed by group rides. Just an FYI.

[Jaybo]

Originally Posted by free-agent

Your spandex shtick is tired. No one gives a sh!t if you are annoyed by group rides. Just an FYI.

We are talking about group rides! Forget your Prozac this am? It always amazes how brave guys get behind a keyboard. The thing that amazes me is how intolerate people are of opinions on this board. Instead they default to name calling and the like...it is embarrasing!

Jaybo

[jgusta]

Hey Jay,

I think what Brian and others are trying to say is to hopefully advocate and create more trails around here through PUMP as a vehicle, not so much to support their spandex bonded group rides and social gatherings, which PUMP is kind of known for around here and something I could really care less about too. You know how I feel about groups (not so much), and I joined PUMP soley for my appreciation of the little stuff we have around here, especially at the 'Poose. Without it, I'm afraid I would even be on a higher dose of Prozac than I already am, among with other things like smack, crack, prostitutes, etc.

Peace brother,
Jon

[Jaybo]

Originally Posted by jgusta

Hey Jay,

I think what Brian and others are trying to say is to hopefully advocate and create more trails around here through PUMP as a vehicle, not so much to support their spandex bonded group rides and social gatherings, which PUMP is kind of known for around here and something I could really care less about too. You know how I feel about groups (not so much), and I joined PUMP soley for my appreciation of the little stuff we have around here, especially at the 'Poose. Without it, I'm afraid I would even be on a higher dose of Prozac than I already am, among with other things like smack, crack, prostitutes, etc.

Peace brother,
Jon

I am cool with their desire to have good trails to ride on...I share that. But, the name calling is getting very old. This is a sport not family, religion, etc that are really deeply meaningful. Why does Brian care what I think about group rides? It befuddles me!

Jaybo

[Jam esp]

Frankly, I think the trails in FP are too crowded with poachers as it is.
It was much nicer when there were just a few of us.

[thorir]

Just a reminder, PUMP by-law vote is tomorrow (2/24/09 7:00pm) at the lucky lab.

http://www.pumpclub.org/node/848
http://www.pumpclub.org/node/700

I'm not exactly sure what form of ID they need to prove "Members in good standing only will be allowed to vote." I never got anything in the mail after signing up, so I'm planning on bringing my DL and a copy of my receipt with my name etc printed off their website. Hope that will do.

[Snake Muesl]

Originally Posted by thorir

Just a reminder, PUMP by-law vote is tomorrow (2/24/09 7:00pm) at the lucky lab.

http://www.pumpclub.org/node/848
http://www.pumpclub.org/node/700

I'm not exactly sure what form of ID they need to prove "Members in good standing only will be allowed to vote." I never got anything in the mail after signing up, so I'm planning on bringing my DL and a copy of my receipt with my name etc printed off their website. Hope that will do.

You didn't get a voter reg card?


Seriously though, I think that is a good example of how pump can be a turn off for some folks. It took them almost three months to get anything in the mail to me (like my membership card) followed a few weeks later by the imba welcome package. Hopefully tomorrow night we will learn what kind of club we have joined.

Now, when do we get to ride bikes?

[Gman086]

Hmmm, the last time I checked into that group was on a PUMP ride and it was all about XC geeks with the M.O. of beating down the newbies. Pathetic. I joined IMBA instead and I see the IMBA crew working at Post all the time. I don't trail ride much anymore as I'd rather spend my time at Post or BR. Why should I put effort into PUMP? Are you really planning on supporting a local FR park or is that blowing smoke? Right now, I have to tell you, IMBA and the GFRA seem like a lot better places to spend my time and money.

Convince me,

G MAN

[free-agent]

Originally Posted by Gman086

Hmmm, the last time I checked into that group was on a PUMP ride and it was all about XC geeks with the M.O. of beating down the newbies. Pathetic. I joined IMBA instead and I see the IMBA crew working at Post all the time. I don't trail ride much anymore as I'd rather spend my time at Post or BR. Why should I put effort into PUMP? Are you really planning on supporting a local FR park or is that blowing smoke? Right now, I have to tell you, IMBA and the GFRA seem like a lot better places to spend my time and money.

Convince me,

G MAN

and I wanted nothing to do with PUMP until recently. There isn't a group within PUMP that is established and ready to start building skills areas and FR stunts, so there is nothing to really convince you with. The point we (XC guys, FR guys, dirt jump gals, etc) are trying to make is that it is a pivotal time right now within the largest advocacy group we have. If you are interested in seeing more varied riding opportunities close by (Gateway area, for example), join up and help us make it happen. It isn't going to happen unless people who are on the proverbial fence sign up, pay fees (hell, $20 is a burger and couple of post ride beers), voice your opinion about what YOU want, and get your hands dirty once in a while. There is power in numbers, so become one.
Convinced? If not, I am a teacher so I can go on forever......

[swift]

Originally Posted by free-agent

and I wanted nothing to do with PUMP until recently. There isn't a group within PUMP that is established and ready to start building skills areas and FR stunts, so there is nothing to really convince you with. The point we (XC guys, FR guys, dirt jump gals, etc) are trying to make is that it is a pivotal time right now within the largest advocacy group we have. If you are interested in seeing more varied riding opportunities close by (Gateway area, for example), join up and help us make it happen. It isn't going to happen unless people who are on the proverbial fence sign up, pay fees (hell, $20 is a burger and couple of post ride beers), voice your opinion about what YOU want, and get your hands dirty once in a while. There is power in numbers, so become one.
Convinced? If not, I am a teacher so I can go on forever......

Well said.

Mad props to those who have stepped to the plate with their own time and money to get this ball rolling. I am indebted to you. I've been sidelined by other events recently but look forward to helping "be the change" once my schedule allows for more time and opportunity to contribute.

Rock on!

[hydrogeek]

Those who want something new need to get involved and help make it happen. It doesn't take a huge commitment if a number of people get involved. There are no free rides (no pun intended). I am a XC guy (prefer dude) and I am a card carrying PUMP member for the last two years. Like any group of people, some are great and some are not so much. I guarantee you most of the people are cool.

You are correct when saying that most of the rides are XC oriented, but more DH, FR, and Urban riders are joining and getting involved in PUMP to help make things happen. PUMP and MTB PDX are merging during tonight’s meeting to increase advocacy and members of WTF are strongly involved in PUMP to increase DH and FR. Now we need people like you to join to help increase the DH and FR presence and advocate for more DH and FR trails in the region. If you want it, get off the sidelines and help make it happen. See everyone at 7:30pm tonight, Lucky Lab on Hawthorne.

[Gman086]

Thanks Fred - I'd love to be there but my g-friend's only night off is tonight so next time. Please do report back here in this thread tho as to how it went and what agenda items are being prioritized. I think I will get involved IF the attitude is really changing.

Cheers,

G

[thorir]

Quick meeting report:

After an hour of bloviating with maybe 10 minutes of interesting content (Tillamook trails need serious maintenance) we got down to the vote.

Everything passed essentially unanimously.

The one notable addition to the vote was that there was an extra director position open in addition to the 5 other positions being voted on. The extra position got filled by a dude named Cedar (SP?). A self proclaimed DH/FR/DJ advocate who is currently working on the Gateway Green and Burnside bike park (yes it seems to be happening) projects.

So, while "non-traditional" users are still somewhat of an afterthought to the club (he nominated himself) I'm hopeful we are going to have a bit more sway moving forward.

While I don't see myself going to many non-trail-building functions in the future (they really need some organization, maybe an agenda or something). I feel confident that there is a shift towards becoming an organization with a broader representation of riding styles and I'm willing to help build some trails with them to prove it. I also think that the other 5 new directors have a diverse perspective, a lot of energy and motivation to get things done, so I am hopeful that PUMP just took a big step forward.

Time will tell.

[AW_]

Originally Posted by thorir

So, while "non-traditional" users are still somewhat of an afterthought to the club (he nominated himself) I'm hopeful we are going to have a bit more sway moving forward.

Thanks for the update.

Just something to keep in mind. Mountain biking is all about progression, and it always has been. The first and original mountain bikers were on the fringe, they were most definitely "non traditional users" of bicycles.

Don't get me wrong I love XC too, but DH/FR/DJ is going to play a big part of the future of recreational cycling. It is already a huge influence which will only grow.

Stagnate or innovate?

[hydrogeek]

I thought the meeting went well last night. There will be major changes in the club with the addition of the new board members. All of the new board members bring fresh ideas and professional skills that were lacking in the past. There is now people who: represent the bike industry and sales, racing, DH, FR, Urban, advocacy, marketing, and even a lawyer. The new board members have proven records in their respective fields and many are well known in the community, and not just the bike community. I for one am very optimistic.

Even though my preferred riding reflects XC, I do agree that DH/FR/Urban riding is very underserved in this region and more needs to happen to serve the need. If I was a better rider and not so old I would enjoy the hell out of doing some free riding. Maybe I need to build some skinnies in the back yard and practice.

[ebxtreme]

You don't make change without getting involved. For those pi$$ing and moaning about what PUMP does or doesn't do, get off your arse and make the change from within. I'm always surprised by the folks that ride 2-3x a week, but then can't make a advocacy meeting or get out for a trailday. Honestly, I don't even make time for those folks anymore.

Also, I'm not sure what the downside is to joining/supporting a mt. bike advocacy group? If I lived in PDX, you could be damn sure I'd be supporting the BRMBA, PUMP, GFRA, DOD and whoever else is out there making it happen in the area.

EB

[toowacky]

Originally Posted by AW_

Don't get me wrong I love XC too, but DH/FR/DJ is going to play a big part of the future of recreational cycling. It is already a huge influence which will only grow.

AW_, agreed w/ you. Just like MTBR has evolved, so must PUMP.

One item of note is besides the addition of the guy named 'Cedar' (SP?, sorry, don't know a last name) to the board of directors on PUMP, another director added was Paul Fidrych. In his bio, included the proposed changes doc that PUMP published, it says:

"Paul is an avid road, mountain, and commuter bike rider. An XC mountain biker for many years, Paul recently discovered downhill/free riding and speaks the praises of gravity assisted fun."

There is definitely a more diverse representation in PUMP, both on the board, and in it's members....

[wheiberg]

Just thought I'd chime in. One thing to note is not only are DH/FR/DJ actually represented in the board, but I really felt the entire board and the club itself not only recognized these parts of MTBing but also welcomed them. There was definitely a "let's get together and get this done" mentality that was infectious.

Keep your eyes on the organization, things are already starting to happen, and the people are in place to take advantage of these opportunities for all forms off off road biking.

[happhazard]

I'm new to Portland and was riding around in forest park trying to find trails. Not too many that allowed bikes. Depressing. I found only one, actually.
That got me thinking, if I'm going to be living here, I've got to have somewhere to get my adrenalin fix w/o having to drive an hour after work. I like to ride mostly DH and am willing to climb to do it.
I have been involved in some trail advocacy in Ashland, Or (SOMBA) and thought about joining PUMP. I'm wondering if there is a real possibility of getting a trail approved in forest park, how is the city to work with, etc.? What is the process and is there anything in the works? Thanks in advance

[toowacky]

happhazard--

I think I discerned from the GRX vs ISS thread that you're perhaps the Brian that I met last fall-- I was in town w/ my buddy Charlie shuttling Mt A and met up w/ two Brians at 4 corners, one on a GRX/Van36 and another on an Intense, then followed them down and hit JabberW.

Anyway, welcome to PDX. Options for riding in Forest Park (FP) are limited. Check out bikeportland.org for some news on what may be in the works. There are recent efforts to gain access to some of the trails in FP. Not sure how that will pan out, but it seems more realistic now than ever. In the past, the Parks dept was not too supportive, but with a new commissioner that oversees Parks, it looks like maybe we're on a fast track to more access. Also, theres a new proposed pumptrack in inner SE PDX off Burnside, and a proposed project out by where 84 and 205 meet, the "Gateway Green" project, with FR/CX/etc trails.

As for trails close-by for a quick fix, the Scappoose trails are about 35-45 minutes W/NW of PDX on Hwy 30, and there are bunch of killer tight single track descents and a short but technical DH trail there. PM me if you would like, I can give you a tour.

And join PUMP. We need more voices, trail builders, etc.

Tom

http://www.pumpclub.org

[happhazard]

Thanks for the welcome Toowacky! I think I remember meeting you as well- on a specialized? ...Its great to see the enthusiasm in PDXMTBer's for Forest Park trails. There's so much potential for some really nice tracks.... Read up briefly on the PDX parks dept. protocol for trail grade per foot requirements, etc. and it all sounded do-able for a fun DH trail. Moreso, a fun DH trail for anyone on anything from a cyclo-cross bike to freeride. I'll be sure to PM you next time I'm up there. Cheers, Brian