Mad Cat Pump Track Build-Party:  March 25th, 2007

What is a pump track you ask?

It's a small bike course full of rhythm, jumps, berms.  If built properly, it will allow you to enjoy continuous riding, without pedaling.  It need not be big, it need not be fancy, but you need people, shovels, wheelbarrows, food and enthusiasm.

Stats:
-20 yards of dirt
-12 to15 fun-loving friends/family
-5 hours of labor ( That's right, only 5)
-30 hamburgers
-2 cases of beer, 4 cases of soda, 2 cases of water
-5 wheelbarrows
-8 shovels
-150 feet of track space. (roughly a 30ft x 70ft area)

And it all starts with dirt.  In our case, 2 truck loads; approx: 20 yards worth.  Clay loam or topsoil works best.

Gather your friends and family, explain the goal, hand them a shovel and start moving dirt. The more people, the easier the task...

Layout is critical.  Mark your jumps, berms and where you want the dirt.

Berms can be various sizes. Typically the bigger they are, the faster you go.  Speeds of up to 20mph can be reached on a pump track.

And keep the dirt coming!

and coming...

Pack it down as it's dumped.  Good compaction is key to a fast course.

pack it. pack it. pack it.

Pretty soon, it starts to take shape and the workers need a sample run....

Even the little guys....

Feed the crew. Keep 'em hydrated and happy!

Water the course, let it sit and set. Then begin the test rides!

Fast and fun..  no pedaling.

The kids will LOVE YOU!

And your friends will have a new favorite hang-out all summer long!