Pinkbike Poll: It's Bike Park Season. Do You Care?

Pinkbike recently published a poll, provocatively titled "It's Bike Park Season. Do You Care?", gauging its readership's interest in the opening of bike parks. While specific results aren't detailed, the very act of posing the question suggests a perceived shift or potential apathy within a segment of the mountain biking community towards what has traditionally been a cornerstone of the gravity discipline.

This poll arrives as bike park operations increasingly diversify, moving beyond pure downhill to incorporate enduro trails, e-bike access, and even adaptive riding facilities. For years, the 'opening day' of major parks like Whistler or Les Gets was a calendar highlight, signifying the return of lift-accessed thrills. However, with the explosion of trail networks accessible by pedal power and the rise of private shuttle operations, the traditional bike park model faces evolving competition for riders' attention and disposable income.

Ultimately, Pinkbike's query hints at a broader existential question for the industry: are bike parks still the primary draw for gravity riders, or are they becoming just one option among many? The answer, undoubtedly, depends on who you ask, and perhaps, on the quality of the trails.