LMB and MMBA have joined forces
About
From 1990 to 2022, the Michigan Mountain Biking Association (MMBA) served as the statewide advocacy organization for natural surface singletrack trails in Michigan. In 2023, LMB absorbed MMBA and relaunched its advocacy and programming efforts under the Michigan Mountain Bike Alliance (see what we did there?). Read on to learn more about what we are currently doing to strengthen the voice of the Michigan cycling community.
MMBA Statewide Workgroup
MMBA hosts a workgroup meeting on the first Thursday of every month at 7:00pm. The group is made up of mountain bikers from across Michigan who work to tackle local issues which have statewide impacts. It also serves as an information conduit for the mountain biking community.
If interested in getting involved in these workgroup meetings, contact MMBA leads Jeff Carek at [email protected] or Neal Glazebrook at [email protected].
Advocacy Initiatives
Right to Ride Bill: Shortly after taking over MTB advocacy, LMB – MMBA responded to equestrian efforts to limit mountain biking access to shared trails. We successfully launched a call to action and the proposed bill was set aside. It has not been reintroduced for consideration since.
Funding for Trails: Efforts to Secure Funding for Natural Surface Trails through the MDNR and the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund began in early 2024 and are ongoing. – LMB advocates for mountain biking trail funding from the DNR and the Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund.
Programming
Beginner-Friendly Mountain Bike Group Rides: In 2023, MMBA certified ride leaders held five beginner-friendly MTB group rides in the lower peninsula at Burchfield Park in Lansing and Island Lake State Rec. Area in Brighton.
Mountain Bike FUNdamental Skills Clinics: This year, MMBA launched and hosted four MTB FUNdamental skills clinics in different areas of the state to educate and encourage riders of all abilities, with one specifically held for women. In 2025, MMBA is planning to hold the next series of 12 clinics to include fundamental skills, intermediate skills, cornering, a women’s weekend, and a weekend-long bikepacking 101 course.
First Time Racers’ Clinic: In June, leading up to the Addison Oaks Classic, certified MMBA coaches held a free first-time racers’ clinic covering starts, passing, hydration, nutrition, and trail etiquette. To date, two participants have podiumed at races they have entered post-clinic. Both riders have praised the coaches stating the information gained through these clinics made their podium moments possible.
Trailblazing Grants
New in 2024, MMBA’s Trailblazing Grants will fund the building, maintenance, and development of mountain bike trails in Michigan. This program is intended to expand access to and improve natural surface trails and projects related to mountain biking. The very first round of grant recipients will be announced later this summer.
Join MMBA – LMB
Your membership in MMBA will strengthen our voice and give us the standing to represent the mountain biking community with state lawmakers. Our strength is in our numbers and together, we advocate for the interests of ALL bicyclists across the great state of Michigan.
You asked for it. We heard you. LMB is excited to now offer MMBA membership categories. A MMBA membership gives you the same member perks as being a LMB member, but now you can show off your support for our work to improve mountain biking in Michigan.
Thank you for trusting us to amplify your voice!