Brighton State Recreation Area

Tornado Section Feature Proposal - Michigan Mountain Biking Association

On the map below, the direction of the trail leads riders past the sites in order: A, B, C, D, then E. The green lines show where the bypasses deviate from the existing trailbed. The blue lines show the advanced lines over the features. At this time Site E is not designed, because we first need to cut down the tops of the fallen logs that start at Site A. Once that is done, we will be able to look at the available materials (log pieces) and the slope of the hill underneath the treetops, and determine what we can build.

The plan for the features is to have something for all riders, while preventing inexperienced riders from being able to enter the more advanced features. A progression from a simple boardwalk to a set of low up-and-overs, to easier lines on the advanced features will allow riders to become more confident as they build their skills. Difficult entries will help prevent inexperienced riders from getting into situations beyond their skill levels, while giving more advanced riders a fun experience.

In the pictures below the map, the background image shows the current state of the fallen logs at each site. The overlaid graphic shows an aerial view of the design of the proposed features and bypasses, with green lines showing either the ground-level bypass or an easier feature path. The blue lines show the advanced path over the features. Smaller example photos (with white borders) show similar features that are currently in use. They are not exactly what we would build, but are similar enough to give an idea of what the features would look like, once built.

Site A

This is the only site without a dirt ground-level bypass, since the design includes a low and wide boardwalk over the tree close to the rootball. We can not cut completely through the tree this close to the rootball because it will stand partially up. The boardwalk will be lowered by counter-sinking it into the fallen tree. This will flatten the deck and remove the possibility of jumping. Along with a wide and closely-spaced deck, it will be easy enough for small children to ride. It will also provide a visual cue to riders that they are coming into the feature section. The entry to the advanced line is challenging enough to keep inexperienced riders from entering the advanced line. The logs will be flattened and connecting sections will join them.

Site B

This site contains both a dirt bypass and an easy feature running parallel to it, consisting of a set of low up-and-overs that are wide enough for beginning riders to handle. The advanced line will have an intimidating entry that looks skinny, but that leads to a wider upper deck, allowing riders to stop on it before banking left and down onto two larger up-and-overs. The example in the bottom left is higher than what we should need. With the downhill slant, riders will be able to cross over the logs in a roller-coaster-like manner.

Site C

This is a straightforward feature, consisting of a log with a shaved top and ramps to get on and off of it. The ramps will be the same on both sides, and have a skinny and challenging entry board to keep inexperienced riders off of it.The entry boards will be close enough to the log to prevent riders from piling up found materials to make it easier to get on the feature. We want to prevent inexperienced riders from getting up on top of the feature.

Site D

This site has a dirt ground-level bypass as well as two lines using the same entry ramp. The entry ramp will be challenging for beginners, and anybody that can get up on the feature should be able to handle the easier line, which goes to the left of the rootball. The advanced line has a further filter, because it will be skinnier and not as smooth as the easier line. It will require lifting the front wheel to an upper-level deck a few inches above the entry deck, then curving to the right with the back tire trailing along on a lower deck. Riders capable of handling that will then ride a deck that goes between several logs, but with the deck level being a few inches below the tops of the logs, making a bumpy ride that will be fun but still easy for riders capable of getting to it.