Shimano have just announced their Trail Born initiative, which aims to increase and susatin a range of mountain bike trails around the world. This includes donating $USD1 million per year for the next decade, but it also covers working closely on trail projects and advocacy groups both locally and globally.
Given trails typically cost $USD15-80k per kilometre of building, a cash injection and industry support should have a big impact. Shimano are committed to the project as the return on investment ‘is priceless’ according to their press release.
As a project, Trail Born will roll out in North America, Australia and the European Union. Then in 2025 more locations will be added. By 2026 the goal is to have Trail Born making an impact in Asia, Africa, New Zealand, and Central and South America along with the original locations.
Support will be delivered for legal and sustainable trails – not fall line loamers and not for off-books trails. There will also be thorough reviews in place with funds allocated only once this process is complete.
In Australia, you will see Trail Born in action on a new trail called Blended Earth, which will be a hand-cut trail in Derby, Tasmania, built in partnership with the Blue Derby Foundation and Dorset Council. Expect an intermediate singletrack trail which will be challenging and unique, with a totally different trail experience to the machine-built flow in the region. Expect it to be open in early 2025 for the 10 year anniversary of the Blue Derby Trails.