On the right track: Mountain biking on the increase in Hong Kong
Mountain biking in the city has hit top gear thanks to government support. But there are still bumps in the road
That's how writer and photographer Matt Wragg described his experience riding mountain bike trails on Lamma Island in the April issue of Mountain Biking UK magazine.
The AFCD now understands that mountain bikers need single tracks and flow trails, not staircases and tarmac
Wragg thought Hong Kong was only hustle, bustle and urban sprawl - "my idea of hell", he wrote - but was pleasantly surprised by the city's riding opportunities after being given a tour by Hong Kong Mountain Bike Association's (HKMBA) vice-chairman Kenneth Lam.
A growing number of Hongkongers are discovering the thrills of mountain biking in the territory. Last year, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) issued 7,311 mountain bike permits, a 130 per cent increase from 2009. More than 24,260 permits have been issued in the past five years. The permits, which are free and valid for two years, are compulsory for anyone who wants to ride on designated mountain bike trails in Hong Kong's country parks.
Steve Coward, who offers mountain bike training and tours through his website Crosscountry HK, says he's had 10 to 20 per cent more clients each year since starting the company in 2007. His clients range from middle-aged corporate types, to road cyclists making a switch, to kids and the health-conscious in general.
There are more designated trails to ride mountain bikes in Hong Kong than ever - with more being planned. In all, there are nine mountain bike trails in different country parks, totalling about 113 kilometres, along with a site in Sai Kung West Country Park (Wan Tsai Extension).