Need Advice
I’m one of the volunteer trail maintainers for the Cunningham Park MTB trail system in Queens, NYC. I primarily maintain the West Loop Trail, but also help with trail work, feature building, and maintenance throughout the system.
We're dealing with a growing problem and could really use advice from other trail builders.
Our trail system is increasingly being used by riders on illegal motorized vehicles, including:
- Gas-powered dirt bikes (full motocross bikes)
- High-powered electric dirt bikes (Sur-Ron, Talaria, etc.)
- Lower-cost electric dirt bikes that are often sold online
These vehicles are prohibited on our mountain bike trails, and the trailheads are clearly signed. Unfortunately, enforcement has been inconsistent, and despite occasional citywide crackdowns on illegal dirt bikes and e-bikes elsewhere in NYC, our trail system continues to be affected.
The damage to the trails has become significant, and the moto riders have also been creating safety concerns for hikers, mountain bikers, and families using the park (riding backwards at speed; theatening individuals).
We're looking for proven physical solutions that help prevent motorized vehicles from entering while still allowing access for mountain bikes, hikers, and legitimate maintenance equipment.
Have any of you successfully installed:
- Gates
- Bollards
- Chicane entrances
- Barrier systems
- Fencing
- Jersey Barriers / K-rails
- Other access-control designs
that have actually reduced or eliminated this problem?
If you have photos, design plans, dimensions, or examples from your trail system, I'd really appreciate seeing them. We're hoping to find a solution that is effective, durable, and still maintains good access for legitimate trail users.
Thanks in advance for any ideas or lessons learned.
