The influence of tire size on bicycle impacts to soil and vegetation. (December 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Martin, Ross H.; Butler, David R.; Klier, John
• Is Part Of: Journal of outdoor recreation and tourism. Volume 24(2018)
• Page Start: 52
• Page End: 58
• Publication Date: 2018-12
• Subjects: Trampling -- Mountain biking -- Aerial photography -- Recreation -- Soil compaction; Outdoor recreation -- Periodicals; Tourism -- Periodicals; Outdoor recreation; Tourism; Electronic journals; Periodicals; 338.47796505
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jort.2018.08.002
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 2213-0799

Abstract

Abstract: The impact of trampling on soils and vegetation by a mountain bike, a cyclocross bike, and a hiker were analyzed in a controlled experimental setting. A trampling grid was created so that each trampling agent was documented, with pass increments of 25, 75, 200, and 400 passes. Soil compaction data collected before and after showed that different trampling agents have varying rates of soil compaction. High resolution unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) imagery was able to document the change to vegetation. This research effort shows that narrower tires (cyclocross bike) compact soil more than wider tires (mountain bike), and that bicycles have a greater impact to vegetation and soil at low levels of trampling than a hiker. However, at higher levels of trampling the impacts of hikers and bikers were similar. The aerial imagery shows how the impact pattern produced by bikes changes around corners. Several management implications are discussed. Management implications: The effect of bike tire width should be considered in areas of sensitive soils, especially for races and formal events. If a trail is frequented by multiple user groups and passing is frequent, the greater initial impact by bicycles should be considered when designating which user group must yield first, especially if trail widening is a concern. UAV's could be used for detecting off trail trampling and monitoring trail condition.