THE FOCUS
We are seeking to bring about a change in American culture through outdoor sports. Activities such as mountain biking improve lives, improve economies, and bring people together in divisive times. We envision a future in which mountain biking is more approachable for beginners, less expensive for passionate members of the sport, and easily accessible for everyone. Because of the explosive growth we have seen in mountain biking in the past few years, we are focusing early efforts on several key aspects of this sport: helping beginners get started, supporting infrastructure projects, and supporting competition.
Getting Started
We love riding mountain bikes! Riding is even more fun ( and safer) with a group of friends! But finding a group of people that can help you learn how to ride (and do that safely) can be challenging at first. Supporting coaching programs and local group rides that help new riders safely progress their skills is a key focus for us. We lead beginner rides, coach, and support local shop rides.
Another challenge for beginners is equipment. As a starting point, we help novice riders find used bikes and bike parts, and get their bikes and suspension setup. Bike and suspension setup can make the difference between a good first day and a really bad first day! We also have a variety of ‘loaner’ mountain bikes for people to try so they can determine what type of bike is best for them. These bikes also can be borrowed by people who may have a broken bike or broken parts.
Infrastructure Advocacy
Easy access to good riding is one of the most important factors to drive mountain biking. By building awareness around how people can help in their area as well as organizing volunteer work crews in our home region, we hope to increase the the number and quality of trail systems and public bike parks. We aim to build and maintain this infrastructure in an environmentally friendly and sustainable manner. Local communities often experience an economical benefit from the increase in tourism generated by these projects.
Racing and Rider Support
It is no secret that outdoor sports are expensive and racing can be more expensive still. Between having the right equipment, getting it race-ready, paying entry fees at races, and travel-related costs, taking mountain biking to the next level is a challenge. This is why we organized a team of passionate and talented riders who support Out-Live and Out-Live supports.
Riders earn support by helping Out-Live grow the sport. Leading rides in their areas, coaching beginner riders, and helping with bike and suspension setup are all ways a rider can get help from Out-Live. Donations, grants, and proceeds from our gear sales go toward helping riders across the East.
Rides and Events
Many novice riders ‘get the bug’ and start riding harder trails and wanting to ride more often. We help organize and lead more advanced rides as well as trips to bike parks so riders can progress in a fun and safe way. These are the rides that bring people together and grow the sport.
We are also developing technology to help riders see who might be riding in the area. Learning who are the other riders in the area and where to ride can be very difficult for novice riders. By bringing riders with common skills or goals together, we are helping to build a community of riders who often become life-long friends
Get out and Live!
Come ride with us