Tandem mountain bike teams to test Asheville’s trails

Jason Sandford

Jason Sandford is a reporter, writer, blogger and photographer interested in all things Asheville.

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This looks like fun. Press release:

Tandem mountain bicycle teams from across the United States and Canada will converge in Asheville the weekend of May 21-23, 2010 to test the local mountain bike trails.

That’s right. These folks ride “bicycles built for two” on hilly, off-road trails. The weekend’s rides (not races) will take place on local trails including the Bent Creek Trail system, 50 miles of single track and gravel paths that sometimes reach a 12 percent grade!

The Appalachian Off Road Tandem Adventure (AORTA) is sponsored by MTB Tandems, Inc., of Canton, Georgia, one of the few tandem mountain bike dealers in the South. Local teams as well as 30 or so teams from as far away as California will be participating in the weekend’s events, which include a trade show, meet-up rides, and socials.

This extreme sport is small, but growing in popularity. “Tandem cycling is one of the most challenging sports out there,” MTB Tandems Owner Alex Nutt said. “These mountain trails will put even the most experienced riders to the test, while easier routes will give those just learning the sport some much-needed experience.”

More information can be found at: www.mtbtandems.com.