Risk Management Corner - December 2025

Incident report from a mountain bike ride on the East West Regional Trail

Incident Report: Mountain Biking – East West Regional Trail - Mon, Sep 8, 2025 - Denver

Title: Mtn Bike – East West Regional Trail
Location: Douglas County East West Trail

Activity Details:
Type: Biking
Date: Sep 8, 2025
Category: Trip
Group: Denver
Mileage & Elevation Gain: 1.8 miles, 234' gain
Participants: 9 members

Incident Information:
Category: Incident (physical)
Date & Time of Incident: Sep 8, 2025, 8:00 AM
Location: On trail, descending
Injury Details:
Type: Laceration (elbow avulsion) and mild abrasion
Injured Party: CMC Participant (experienced mountain biker and CMC Bobcat Leader)

Cause: Rear wheel slid out on pea gravel during low-angle turn on moderately steep descent, resulting in fall onto left side

Injury Treatment: Primary and secondary survey conducted by designated First Aider. No head or spinal injuries detected. Left elbow avulsion cleaned, dressed, and bandaged. Mild abrasion on left leg noted. Participant briefly fainted while seated after fall but quickly recovered. She was alert and oriented throughout treatment.

Contributing Factors:
Immediate Cause: Fall on loose dirt/gravel during descent
Contributory Cause: Both front and rear shocks were inadvertently locked down prior to the ride, reducing bike's ability to absorb terrain changes

Analysis: The injured participant, an experienced mountain biker and CMC Bobcat Leader, identified that the accident likely would not have occurred if the shocks had been properly engaged. She noted an important observation: "It is important that the victim stays still after a fall allowing the body to re-adjust and for the rider and team to assess the situation. As we get older, this becomes more important."

The CMC Trip Leader agreed with this analysis and added that while every experienced mountain biker knows "it is not a question of if, but when, a fall is going to occur," the way we ride must adapt as we age. Conservative riding practices become increasingly critical, including:

• Maintaining awareness of body position
• Using brakes effectively
• Monitoring speed, especially on loose surfaces like pea gravel

Outcome: After assessment and treatment, the participant felt able to continue the ride. The Trip Leader and First Aider determined she could safely do so with close monitoring (riding behind her). She demonstrated strong riding skills and endurance for the remainder of the ride.

Comments (Ashley Kramer - Education Manager): This incident highlights several important lessons for mountain bikers of all experience levels:

1. Pre-Ride Equipment Check: Always perform a thorough bike check before hitting the trail. Suspension systems are critical safety features, not just comfort additions. Locked shocks significantly reduce your bike's ability to maintain traction and absorb impacts on technical terrain.

2. The Importance of Staying Still Post-Fall: The participant's observation about remaining still after a fall is crucial. The immediate impulse to get up and move—especially when others are approaching—can mask injuries and lead to secondary incidents like fainting. This is particularly important as we age and our bodies may take longer to process shock and adrenaline.

3. Age and Risk Assessment: As the Trip Leader noted, conservative riding becomes more important with age. This doesn't mean avoiding challenging terrain, but rather approaching it with greater mindfulness regarding speed control, line selection, and overall technique.

4. Team Response and First Aid: This incident showcases excellent team response. Having a designated First Aider who conducted proper primary and secondary surveys ensured the injured party received appropriate care. The decision to allow the participant to continue was made carefully, with ongoing monitoring throughout the remainder of the ride.

5. Safe Descent Strategies for Loose Terrain:

   • Check Your Equipment: Ensure all systems are functioning properly before descending
   • Read the Terrain: Pea gravel and loose surfaces require reduced speed and careful line selection
   • Body Position Matters: Weight back, elbows out, look ahead—proper form helps maintain control
   • Brake Management: Use both brakes judiciously; avoid sudden braking that can cause slides
   • Know Your Limits: Technical descents demand full attention and conservative speed choices

Key Takeaway: Even experienced riders have falls, but preparation and proper technique can minimize risk. Regular equipment checks, conservative speed management on challenging surfaces, and staying calm after an incident are essential practices for safe mountain biking at any age.

For more mountain biking safety tips and best practices, visit the CMC's Mountain Biking resources or connect with your local group leaders.

Tags: Risk Management, Mountain Biking Safety, Safety Stories, Denver Group