Caine: Consider this compromise, Lorenzo

Lorenzo Semple’s article regarding e-mountain bikes is insolent, ignorant, and inconsiderate. I’ve been riding mountain bikes in Colorado trails for more than 40 years and in our valley for more than 20 years. Lorenzo’s characterization of e-mountain bike riders does not align with the considerate and skilled senior e-mountain bike riders I experience.

First — I concur. Our mountain bike trails cannot be open carte-blanche to e-bikes. That would be a disaster. However, for senior bikers with a physical malady (which Lorenzo mocks), e-mountain bikes are a means to continue experiencing the trail systems, which many of us have supported for years.

I ride both my analog mountain bike and an e-mountain bike. Climbs that I previously enjoyed on my standard bike are now a challenging grunt. A rigorous cardio workout is still attainable on an e-mountain bike allowing me to continue the enjoyment of my favorite Colorado activity.

BLM has not opened the Crown trails to e-bikes but is reasonably reviewing modifications under section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 for seniors with physical maladies. The same consideration should be applied to Sky Mountain Park. I’ve made proposals to Pitkin County commissioners and to the Roaring Fork Mountain Bike Association to advocate a permitting system with the following conditions:

• Establish an age limit – 65+
• Possibly require a physical malady
• Require the purchase of a pass similar to a ski pass
• Limit access by days, times, and trails

Minimizing access for e-bikes to a few weekday mornings or afternoons on designated trails would have zero impact on our mountain biking community and allow for senior bikers to continue experiencing our treasured trail system.

So, Lorenzo, instead of insulting we senior riders, particularly those with a limiting physical condition, how about providing consideration to this reasonable compromise?

Tony Caine

Aspen