06 Oct Meet the Northampton Bike Park team
Free to use and suitable for both beginners and experienced mountain bikers, it’s not surprising that the new Northampton Bike Park is proving so popular.
Our day-to-day operations are run by local charity Northamptonshire Sport and our Bike Park Officer have joined the team to work at the Park. The role of the officer is to support visitors, ensuring everybody has a safe and enjoyable visit.
Our Officer is an experienced rider with a passion for all things mountain biking (MTB). If you’re visiting and need some help or have a question, look out for Paul, the wears a high-vis vest (and big smile). Paul will also be helping to maintain the trails and do safety checks.
Let’s get started and meet Paul our Bike Park officer.
When did you start mountain biking and how did you get started?
Paul:
I first got involved around 1989 when I purchased my first MTB to go touring around Europe. I was gone for six months, travelled around 6500 miles, crossed the Pyrenes twice and went through 6 countries. I met loads of great people, and it was one of the best experiences of my life. When I got home, I rode my bike to work one day, and someone stole it! I then imported a Fisher CR7 from the USA and my mum shouted at me for a week for spending so much money. That’s when the real love affair with mountain biking started.
What’s the best thing about MTBing and why do you love it?
Paul:
There are so many things, the places to go, the views, the mates, the shared experiences, the fear, the accomplishments, and the health benefits. Plus, mountain biking doesn’t come without risks, I’ve got to know just how good our hospitals are!
What kind of bike do you ride?
Paul:
My stable changes quite a lot but my current bikes are:
- Zerode G2 – downhill bike
- Privateer 161 – enduro bike
- Orbea Rise H30 – ebike
- Whyte T-140s- trail bike
What are your favourite trails at Northampton Bike Park?
Paul, Northampton Bike Park Officer
Paul:
This is difficult as it depends on my mood and what I want to accomplish, but for the most part, I think it will have to be between Jett Black and 1460.
“If you see me at the park and have any questions please ask, or even if you just want a chat, see you on the trails!”
What advice would you give to anyone who wants to try MTB for the first time?
Paul:
Give it a go!! there is nothing to lose but loads to gain.
Have you had any scary moments MTB’ing? What’s your top piece of safety advice to avoid them?
Paul:
Many scary moments and a few injuries but all worth it!! I don’t think you will find a mountain biker who is blemish free. Top advice – ALWAYS wear a helmet wherever on whenever on your bike, you never know what will happen. It’s always better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it!