Examining Progression in Mountain Bike Specialization: A Nationwide Study

Authors

  • Chad D. Pierskalla West Virginia University
  • Danny Twilley West Virginia University
  • Doug Arbogast West Virginia University
  • Damon Casseday West Virginia University
  • Daniel Eades West Virginia University
  • Vaike Haas West Virginia University
  • David Smaldone West Virginia University
  • Andy Williamson West Virginia University
  • Jinyang Deng West Virginia University
  • Mellissa S. Weddell University of Montana

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18666/JOREL-2024-12174

Keywords:

Recreation specialization, mountain biking, progression, outdoor economy

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to use the recreation specialization construct to examine the diversity of mountain bike riders in the US to better meet their needs, and to help strengthen the sport and the outdoor economy.  At one end of the specialization continuum are Completely High Specialist and at the other end are Completely Low Specialists.  As recreationists gain skill and experience, make an activity central to their lifestyle, and make more investments in equipment, they can progress in specialization.  Little if any research used the construct to study the larger non-competitive and competitive mountain biker population.  The authors analyzed a nationwide mountain bike data set that was collected in 2018 using a snowball sampling method.  There were 13,623 mountain bikers across the US that provided usable online surveys.  Specific recommendations are provided to help mountain bikers progress in specialization.  Theoretical and methodological implications are also presented.

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Published

2024-08-02

Issue

Vol. 16 No. 3 (2024): Special Issue: The Outdoor Economy: The Intersection of the Outdoor Recreation Industry, Vibrant Communities, and Public Lands

Section

The Outdoor Economy: The Intersection of the Outdoor Recreation Industry, Vibrant Communities, and Public Lands

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