The history of mountain biking 297

The History Of Mountain Biking

There is a lot of history and information out there

in regards to the history and origins of mountain

biking, with some being recognized and some that

depends on who has the best firm of public relations.

Some say that mountain biking began with the Buffalo

Soldiers, which was a turn of the century infantry

who customized bikes to carry gear over the rough and

tough terrain. They began in August of 1896, over

the course of 800 miles. Their mission was simple -

to test bikes for military use in the toughest of

terrain.

Others say it was the Velo Cross Club of France

that started mountain biking. The club was comprised

of 20 young bikers from Paris, who between 1951 and

1956 developed a sport that resembles present day

mountain biking.

It could have also been John Finley Scott, who was

the first mountain biker in the U. S. In 1953 he

constructed what he called a "Woodsie Bike", using

a diamond frame, balloon tires, flat handle bars,

and cantilever brakes. He was more than 20 years

ahead of his time. Even though he remained an off

road enthusiast, there were many at that time who

didn't share that same passion.

Today, we believe that the history of the mountain

bike is most apparent in Northern California. There

are a few areas that claim to be the first community

for mountain biking, although each and every history

book will tell you Marin County.

The sport of mountain biking has taken many twists

and turns over the last several hundred years. Even

though there are many that say different things about

the history and the beginning, we know one thing

for sure - one thing has led to another and the

sport of mountain biking was born.

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