The Upper Cumberland experiencing a biking boom, echoing an increase in its popularity nationwide sinde COVID.
Thad Hoffman of Caney Forks Cycles said biking offers something for everyone from competitive racers to people looking for a relaxing way to exercise. Hoffman said many factors contribute to the local bike boom.
“We’ve got a lot of great roads, great mountains and stuff, back country roads” Hoffman said. “Mountain bike trails are booming. It’s just a really good lifestyle. It’s fun. It’s an easy way to meet people, kind of get into a community.”
Hoffman said biking helps the environment and is a low-stress way to get in shape.
“It’s also good for your mental health,” Hoffman said. “There’s some studies that find [biking] helps prevent early onset Alzheimer’s. The exercise, the cardio work, along with the balancing, but also, the brain processes things. The wind, the smells, dodging trees and stuff. That kind of stuff helps prolong your mental faculties.”
A record 56 million Americans participated in biking last year. That’s up from 51 million in 2018. It is the third most popular outdoor sports.
Hoffman said bikers should always be aware of their surroundings, especially when riding in high traffic areas. Hoffman said distracted drivers present a big risk to cyclists.
“You’re driving a multi-thousand pound weapon against someone with a bike,” Hoffman said. “A helmet’s not going to save them. People need to share the road and be patient with everyone, whether it’s a tractor, horse, a mom with a baby carriage.”
Hoffman said people should give biking a try.
