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One of my local trails near has its flow severely interrupted by a couple of fallen logs. They're about 12"-14" diameter, always damp and slippery as hell, off-camber and close enough together that even if I had the skills to get over the first, it would send me way off-line for the second.
Important to note that its not a well-known trail, but there are occasional tyre tracks down it, but there are no chainring scars on the logs, so I don't think anybody local rides over them (or they're master bunny-hoppers).
What's the best way to fix the situation? Set about the logs with an axe/mattock/chainsaw, or try and build them up into ramps. If so, what's the best technique for a good rideable ramp which wont't erode away and have drainanage issues?
Chainsaw, presuming you have the land owners permission etc etc
Keep the flow going and don't make it more techy for others who might use the trail as that will make them more likely to complain.
One of my local trails near has its flow severely interrupted by a couple of [s]fallen logs[/s] takeoffs.
happy days - get digging
I have removed whole fallen trees in the past of that diameter by using a handsaw to cut into sections then rolled away. But I would also consider incorporating them and creating a small kicker jump if the trail would suit it.
If they are recent falls then do something about it.
If they are old then learn to ride them. Others may be annoyed if you move them or make them ramps.
One way to check is make it a Strava segment to see how many use the trail. Give it a few hours to collate the data and then if you so wish remove the segment to keep it hidden.
Always sad when someone dumbs down a trail because the assumption is nobody else can ride it.
Mind you I'm rubbish at riding over largish logs.
That's a lot of work with a handsaw- it's a fair amount of work with a decent size bow tbh! Especially if it's still weighted up as that might close the kerf as you work. (and could be pretty awkward if it's flat on the ground, you can't win...)
12 inches is too big for most people to even think about riding over so I'd feel totally justified in removing it. Building over it's a bit more contentious, depends on the location.
(er, is that measured in pinkbike/penis inches?)
I didn't get it for trail clearing, but now I have it, I love my manual winch- cut the trunk once, haul it clear. I have puny arms so pushing a saw for ages doesn't work out so well 😆
Manual winch?
Do whats best for the trail, you can cut a section out of a foot thick tree with a a handsaw, cut Vs out to start with then try to work out if the pressure will be on the 'top' of the trunk or 'bottom' and cut the opposite side, as you cut the pressure might change at the trunk starts to bend under its own weight. If its a ramp build it with non compressible dirt (generally not brown) and lots of it, assume it will erode so build it bigger than you think. Dont use logs for side supports if you can help it.
I wish more riders actually did something about improving trails (although one persons improvement is anothers ruination).
Edit - buy one of these, they cut anything incuding fingers
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Nobeerinthefridge - MemberManual winch?
I don't think I'd recommend everyone rush out and buy one, the usefulness is pretty limited but it's very useful sometimes
A regular saw, new with 7tpi is what I use to clear that sort of stuff. More useful than a bow saw as you can cut right through bigger stuff and the blade is easier to get out if it jams, bow saw blade just twists. Also I can strap it to the outside of my rucksack.
The real problem with using the fallen tree as the base for ramps or anything is that sooner or later the tree rots, and the ramp collapses while being ridden, leading to someone going arse over tit and injuring them self, then suing the landowner.
And that ends up doing us as a community more damage than anything.
I'd agree if he was building a ramp take off out of multiple logs but a bit of soil next to a foot high tree trunk? even if it rots its little more than a speed bump.
How far apart are the two tree trunks BTW? 😉
Ah interesting that Mr Menmuir- I've always used an old bow I have and it's great (and easy on the tiny muscles), but about as bike portable as the trees themselves. Never really thought of using a standard saw, have you got a recommendation or is it pretty much anything goes?
The logs have been there for as long as I can remember, they've always annoyed me. First one always looks rideable with hindsight, its approached around a corner after a steep little bit. With a bit of trail manipulation, it could be hit square on which would almost work, but then you'd get sent straight into a tree, rather than over the next log which is about 8' away and is bigger.
Maybe I should compromise, build one up and cut one out.
. Done. There're only 4 people recorded on it, all of whom I ride with and dislike the logs as much as I do.One way to check is make it a Strava segment to see how many use the trail
8' away you say ... perfect for a double then ...
As above Silky Gomtaro (Scruff's picture) saw lives in my pack & will make short work of them!
[img][url= https://farm7.staticflickr.com/6020/5976905137_9fcaf902f4_n.jp g" target="_blank">https://farm7.staticflickr.com/6020/5976905137_9fcaf902f4_n.jp g"/> [/img][/url][url= https://flic.kr/p/a7acEz ]Stuff I saw..[/url] by [url= https://www.flickr.com/people/15253377@N00/ ]z1ppy2[/url], on Flickr[/img]
Yeah that my old saw sticking out of the log, I used both to see if the Silky was as good as I was told.. it is IT IS!
The last couple I've had have been Stanley ones from Screwfix. I have a couple of bow saws but mostly use them for the day job. Felco folding saw in the pocket for smaller stuff.
ninfan - Member
The real problem with using the fallen tree as the base for ramps or anything is that sooner or later the tree rots, and the ramp collapses while being ridden, leading to someone going arse over tit and injuring them self, then suing the landowner.And that ends up doing us as a community more damage than anything.
Overreaction of the day award.
then suing the landowner.
has this ever actually happened?
be extremely careful if you attempt to cut through, as the stresses contained within the wood can be difficult to determine, and sometimes people can get it wrong and get seriously hurt when the parts decide to move. a member of FC personnel was recently injured this way, where apparently the piece of fallen timber he was cutting moved some 2m.
I have no problem using sound wood as a basis for ramps. it's just soil in waiting, and saves moving a lot of earth around, which may be difficult to extract. if you're that concerned about it though stone is really the only thing to use.
The real problem with using the fallen tree as the base for ramps or anything is that sooner or later the tree rots, and the ramp collapses while being ridden, leading to someone going arse over tit
Worth setting up a motion activated camera then, I hear some tv shows will pay you £250 for funny clips.
I don't think I'd recommend everyone rush out and buy one, the usefulness is pretty limited but it's very useful sometimes
I [i]need[/i] me one of those!.
We had the same problem
http://www.essexhertsmtb.co.uk/mountain-bike-chat/what-can-clear-broxbourne-wood-trails-t5423.html
Anyone use a hand chain saw for cutting through big fallen trees?
So I have just ordered one of them saws up there
It's often very easy. If it is a route manufactured by the landowner or his agents then ask them to do the job properly to their satisfaction.
If it's not that then you shouldn't be doing anything so leave it as it is.
Digging on other peoples land is plain wrong.
I'm firmly in the 'sort it out' camp, preferrably make a wee hip jump 🙂 Find some boulders to bulk up the transitions and pack in with shaley slatey or stoney soil. A final layer of large flat rocks if you can. Sorted.
Simon - MemberAnyone use a hand chain saw for cutting through big fallen trees?
I used to have one... 2 big bonuses, obviously pocketable which is great, and also, it looks interesting so people actually want a go. Good for awkward nooks as well, you can cut things htat'd be akward with a saw. Quite quick in soft wood once you get the knack, though it tends to slow down and get sticky as the "circle" reduces. So most times I ended up finishing it with a normal saw. Broke the handle eventually and never did replace it but it's a reasonable option I think just for the stowability
One way to check is make it a Strava segment to see how many use the trail. Done. There're only 4 people recorded on it, all of whom I ride with and dislike the logs as much as I do.
Assuming you only set it up this afternoon give it until tomorrow but I'd have expected it to find more than 4 by now so suspect it's a little used trail.
Compromise and leave the "easiest" one to get over and learn to do it.
I like tight an nadgery over Flow though (flow is good but overrated for EVERY trail). Get a tight and nadgery trail right feels ace and gives you stuff to work on.
Tomlevell +1
paul theres a similar but smaller log over here i built up into a wee jump. shaped the top side of the log to make a lip with a the axe edge on a folding spade, chopping x shapped notches for some extra traction, then built the take off side up with some mineral soil after taking off all the topsoil/organic stuff, shaping it up to tie in with the log. still there but needs building up again due to erosion (2years since it was done)
i'm interested in riding over the hill so happy to give you a hand if you need man power in return for some guiding 🙂
also i bumped into the old nefa folk in chopwell they're planning dig/maintenance days with volunteers with kit & materials through the FC so if you fancy it get involved - they're looking to expand the legit trails there