Re: Bikes on trails?

As a member of the Pacific Trail Association, I am often in the back country of the San Bernardino Mountains. I think bikes have a great place in recreation, but they need to be limited to places which are not fragile. The PCT itself is often made up of a narrow 12 inch trail with a sandy shoulder. It washes out often and becomes difficult to navigate. Bikes are not allowed on the trail at this time, but I have met them and seen the ruts they cut into the shoulders and the ankle twisting grooves they make in the center. If a trail is designed to bear the weight, then I have no problem with them being there, but many miles the riders want to travel are not capable of sustaining their presence. You wouldn't think of riding in a wilderness meadow, but this is no different and it costs thousands of dollars to fix the damage each year on these trails. I totally agree we don't need the livestock in the canyon!