Values of outdoor fields and orientation for contribution projects to local communities of mountain bikers

Abstract

Previous research indicated that many mountain bikers in Japan, as new recreational users, recently engaged in contribution projects to local communities to overcome conflicts with forest landowners, trail managers, and other users to secure their outdoor fields. To verify this movement, this paper conducted a related questionnaire survey among 1,765 mountain bikers. The result showed that Japanese mountain bikers found the best value in riding freely in unpaved forests and trails with a certain distance and scale, and participation in competitive mountain bike (MTB) races was not recognized as primary interest. Additionally, the majority of mountain bikers strongly recognized the need for contribution projects to local communities to secure and maintain these attractive outdoor fields. However, mountain bikers who engage in the projects tend to belong to local mountain bikers’ organizations that collaborate with local communities. Therefore, these local organizations can be the key to developing MTB as a popular outdoor recreation, and promoting local revitalization through the participation of mountain bikers.