Hey! My name is Beka, I've been mountain biking for around 11 years. MTB has developed into part of my identity as I've progressed. I am fiercely protective of my time on the bike and I have experienced so much growth and development as a rider that has given me invaluable personal affirmation. Within the last two years I began riding downhill mtb at bike parks, and that has provided an entirely new world of mtb fun and accomplishment for me. Seeing my skills develop to tackle bike park features is something that new-rider me would never have thought was possible. I currently spend time working as the director of the Women's MTB Network (@womensmtbnetwork on Insta), where we provide resources for the women's mtb community, from the perspective of women riders - all with the goal to keep women inspired to ride. It's been an amazing accomplishment to become part of such a pioneer organization as women's mtb continues to grow and develop.
How long have you been a VMB member?
Five+ years
What's your favorite part of the Lehigh Valley riding community?
The overwhelming sense of support - I've been on many solo rides where I've encountered a mechanical, or had a crash, and have always been supported by other riders. One woman (Karen Krasley) taught me how to service my brake pads on my own - a huge accomplishment for me at the time. Another time, a rider took my car keys down to the bottom of the trail system to drive my Jeep over to the nearest place I could hike-a-bike down after an unfixable flat. The mtb community is the only place I could ever imagine doing that. I always feel safe, supported, and welcome.
What's your go-to local shop?
Cutters in Bethlehem - John and Lisa are so amazing and have supported my riding aspirations since day one.
What's your favorite Lehigh Valley trail or trail system?
Trexler - by far my favorite trail system. It is such a magical, special place for me - there is no such thing as a bad ride there. One of my favorite things in the summer is to start on a 6pm ride, and stay until just past sunset. Seeing the light change in the sky while ripping from the top of half pipe/purple one is something I'll never, ever tire of. Every ride there keeps me feeling motivated and inspired, and I consider myself extremely lucky to have such an amazing system so close by.
Best place for post-ride refueling, and why?
Anywhere with pizza and cold brews - because pizza is life.
What's your best riding tip or piece of advice for other members?
You are always supported and welcome as a rider in the mtb community - don't hesitate to ask for advice, help, or feedback from other riders on the trails. Keep your expectations for progression grounded in reality, and spend as much time on the bike as possible.
Describe your dream ride.
It's always and forever N+1, but my ideal fleet would include: 29" downhill rig, long travel mixed-wheel enduro party bike, hardtail with 140mm+ fork, e-bike trail ripper (have to), and a dirt jumper. I'm super lucky that I'm only one bike away from completing that dream fleet!
What's your most memorable mountain bike accomplishment or achievement?
I'll never forget when I landed myself into 4th on the Strava All-Time Women's Leaderboard for Purple One at Trexler. It's my favorite trail segment at my favorite trail system, I've ridden it over 300 times. Still holding at number 9 on that leaderboard!
What inspired you to join VMB?
Learning about IMBA chapters all over the country, I realized how incredibly lucky I am to have such a dedicated and committed local chapter as VMB - the trails in our area are always developing, expanding, and kept in great shape. It's been awesome seeing everything VMB has done for the riding community over the years.