Trek CEO John Burke taking a pull for bike access to parks
Bicycle access to public lands and parks has been something that the International Mountain Bike Association (IMBA) has relentlessly been advocating for. Right now their focus is on changing the federal policies that regulate bike access to trails in National Parks. It looks like at least one bike industry heavyweight is chiming in strongly on this issue. Two weeks ago we received the following e-mail from Trek Bicycles CEO John Burke, which we like to share with the readers of our blog:
Today, you have the opportunity to change the world!!! Yes You!!!! The National Parks are an absolute gem and yet in most National Parks you cannot ride your bicycle. Please take 4 minutes and read the following on how you can send a note to the National Park Service to support this rule change. Thanks for your help.
The U.S. National Park Service (NPS) has proposed an important rule change that will make it easier for parks to open trails to mountain biking. IMBA has been asking the NPS to make this change since the 1990s We now enter a 60-day commentary period to make the change official. I ask that you register comments in support of the new rule. IMBA has made it easy for you to lend support by filling out an online letter.
We know that several groups are working hard to defeat this proposal. It will take thousands of comments supporting the NPS to ensure the rule is approved. Please lend your voice to the discussion today. For a more detailed outline and a white paper analysis of the proposed change go to IMBA.com or here.
Why am I asking this of you?
- This proposal achieves a more manageable and efficient system for adopting mountain bike trails in National Parks.
- Cycling in National Parks is a way to connect people with the natural world. Something you cannot do from the seat of your car.
- Shared-use trails have proven successful in thousands of locations, including many federally managed parks.
- This proposal will make history. Your children and grandchildren will read about it and enjoy the benefits for years to come.
So many people have helped get this proposal this far in the process. Now it’s your opportunity to lend a hand and make a historic difference. Please ask your family members and friends to sign the proposal as well. The more support we give, the better our change of passing the new proposal.
Let’s make history.
JB
We think it’s pretty neat to see John Burke and Trek Bikes (which also manufactures the Gary Fisher brand) sticking out their neck on this issue and continue their longstanding support for mountain bike advocacy. Let’s heed his call to action and make sure not just our streets, but also our parks and trails become more bike-friendly and for everyone to share.
Don’t miss your chance to make a change !
I am the third generation manager of Dedham Bike located in Dedham, Ma.
For over 25 years I have been a master mechanic, marketing manager and general manager at Dedham.
I am an avid cyclist and skier and occasionally you will find me running or in the weight room.
My love for bicycles started in the the 1970’s with my first BMX race at a track my dad ran.
Since that time I have raced mountain bikes, road, BMX and cyclocross to many podium finishes including NORBA national victories and multiple series and state championship victories.
If it has two wheels or is a challenge, I’m into it.
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