Cross Country/All Mountain
WHAT IS CROSS COUNTRY/ALL MOUNTAIN?
CROSS COUNTRY/ALL MOUNTAIN
Cross country and all mountain are the most prevalent of the mountain bike disciplines, averaging around 80+% of the market share when compared to all other disciplines. Cross country and all mountain broadly refer to ‘general’ mountain bike riding that includes riding a variety of flat, ascending and descending terrain.
All mountain has emerged as a sub set of cross country along with the development of the more capable modern mountain bike. The advancement in mountain bike technology has resulted in equipment that has longer suspension travel and is more ‘gravity friendly’. Thus in the broadest sense all mountain is essentially a form of cross country that has a more challenging trail focus and/or a bigger emphasis on descending trails.
Cross Country mountain biking competition (referred to as XCO) is the form of mountain biking seen in the Olympic games and is the prevalent non-gravity discipline seen at National and World Cup level competition.
Cross country mountain bikes will typically be light weight bicycles of carbon fibre or aluminium construction with between twenty and thirty different gear options. These bikes will typically have front suspension as a minimum, though in many cases they may also include rear suspension. All mountain bikes will typically have fewer gears- between ten and twenty, and will typically have front and rear suspension with greater suspension travel. All mountain bikes will also typically be built to a more durable standard and will thus be heavy than a cross country-specific mountain bike.
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Design of successful cross country and all mountain trails requires extensive exploration of an areas natural topography and features, and an approach that considers the aims and aspirations of the trails intended users. The final trail layout should capitalise on the natural environment whilst ensuring optimal sustainability and minimal disturbance to native flora and fauna.
Whilst anyone can ‘design’ trails, very few can design trails that are actually enjoyable to ride, whilst retaining high levels of sustainability. Dirt Art have many years experience in designing trails that ‘flow’, ensuring maximal enjoyment and minimal ongoing maintenance.
Whether the intended use is racing, recreation, or both Dirt Art will ensure your next cross country or all mountain trail is a success both now and into the future.
All Dirt Art trail designs include GPS mapping with optional services including detailed map development and pictogram maps for signage and promotional purposes.
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