Fighting to increase Mountain Biking Access for the disabled

Dear Reader,

I'm David, the founder of eMTB-4-All. In my late 30s, I received a diagnosis of an aortic root aneurysm, a potentially life-threatening heart defect. The aorta, the largest blood vessel in the body, acts as a conduit, carrying blood from the heart to the brain and the rest of the body. During a routine examination, it was discovered that my aortic root (the segment connecting to the heart) measured 4.6cm, which is significantly larger than normal, indicating an aneurysm. Aneurysms pose a serious risk as they grow, increasing the likelihood of rupture. To illustrate, imagine a garden hose with a bulging section, ready to burst under higher water pressure. Similarly, when inflating a party balloon until it pops, you witness the thinning walls of the balloon eventually giving way. Unfortunately, surviving an aortic rupture, or dissection, is exceedingly rare, with most individuals succumbing to internal bleeding and associated complications within minutes.

Following my diagnosis, I needed to make several lifestyle adjustments to minimize the risk of aneurysm rupture. Engaging in physical activities that significantly elevate my blood pressure or heart rate became off-limits, as they would increase the pressure within my aorta and potentially lead to rupture. Adapting to these restrictions proved challenging since I had always been physically active. Weightlifting and uphill rides on my mountain bike were no longer viable options due to the potential impact on my heart rate and blood pressure.

However, in 2021, while vacationing in Big Sky, Montana, I discovered electric mountain bikes (eMTBs). This remarkable innovation provided the assistance I required to maintain safe heart rate and blood pressure levels. Upon returning home, I purchased a class 1 eMTB (pedal-assist) and was elated to once again participate in the sport I love—mountain biking. While riding my eMTB, I wear a heart monitor that alerts me when my heart rate approaches unsafe levels. At that point, I can increase the bike's assistance to continue riding safely.

Regrettably, shortly after acquiring my eMTB, I discovered that many jurisdictions completely prohibit electric mountain bikes on mountain bike trails, with no exceptions for individuals with disabilities. Furthermore, it became evident that a significant portion of the mountain biking community supports these bans, even when they exclude those with disabilities. This contradiction left me wondering: Why would the mountain biking community and local governments, both often advocating for progressive values and inclusivity, endorse policies that discriminate against disabled individuals?

Dismayed by these developments, I became determined to effect change and challenge these exclusionary and discriminatory laws, leading to the establishment of eMTB-4-All.

I invite you to join our cause in overturning these discriminatory laws and expanding access to the wonderful sport of mountain biking for individuals with disabilities.

Sincerely,

David

Founder, eMTB-4-All

P.S. Due to concerns for my personal safety and that of my family, I have chosen to use only my first name throughout this website. The hate and hostility I have encountered from opponents of eMTBs have been staggering. While riding my eMTB, I am frequently accosted by angry mountain bikers on trails. Most scream and shout at me, and many threaten violence. When confronted, I calmly explain my disability, but often face hostility in response, with claims that the law does not make exceptions for the disabled or demands for proof such as medical records or a letter from my doctor.