Legal instead of illegal: you decide!

Legal statt illegal: Du entscheidest! - RISK iT! BIKE CARE

You've probably experienced it before. The sun is shining, a gentle breeze is blowing and you immediately feel like getting the next kick and an ultimate trip. Beforehand, you check out a few cool trails in the area and then jump on your bike. The planned trip has everything to offer - sensational passages with unforgettable views, a quick refreshment at the lake and, personally, the best part, over hill and dale through the forest. Who hasn't experienced that? But alongside these excellent routes, illegal trails and paths are constantly being built that are used by bikers or hikers. Illegal trails are already hotly debated and discussed in incredible detail, but they still need a reminder so that they are not forgotten. Some people may not even be aware of how serious our decisions are and how much they affect the environment when we use or even build illegal paths. We have therefore put together a few reasons why you should definitely stay on the legal trail.

Use route planner apps correctly!

Many people use various route apps that allow them to record outdoor activities precisely using the GPS function and share them with friends or the community. When used correctly, route planner apps are a great thing that brings a lot of joy to many outdoor enthusiasts. But in the wrong hands, alternative routes spread like wildfire and are also used by many users. At this point, it's up to you to decide! The communities and municipalities concerned are working hard on concepts to avoid conflict and to develop attractive routes so that illegal routes become less attractive, but the decision ultimately lies with the user as to which route they want to take.

Be considerate of flora and fauna!

Basically, riding on illegal trails by bike is a legal problem. But it also has serious effects on the environment. This affects the flora and fauna, but gamekeepers, foresters and hunters also have to struggle on a daily basis. The noise and movements of bikers cause animals such as deer, wild boar and foxes to leave their habitats. This can have long-term effects on the ecological balance. Illegally constructed trails are often built without a concept or sound knowledge and therefore cause damage to the environment. Plants are destroyed and vegetation is fundamentally damaged.

Respect for the commitment of others!

Gamekeepers, foresters and hunters often work in areas with illegal trails and have to deal with the impact on the environment and wildlife. Illegal use of trails makes their work extremely difficult when bikers enter areas such as protected areas and quiet zones that are not intended for the public. Unfortunately, this self-realization does not only take place in the forests, but in existing bike parks. The operators' work is also made unnecessarily difficult by illegal trails and shortcuts. So before the elves can continue with their work, which consists of building cool and safe trails, they first have to worry about damage control from those who do not seem to appreciate the work and no, this work does not happen overnight! It takes more than one night and ultimately this behavior endangers both the approved trails and the approval process for new trails.

We therefore appeal to each and every one of you to show more consideration and respect when planning your next route, taking a spontaneous trip or visiting the bike park. There is much more to a sensational descent than you think. Without those who give their all day after day, our passion, biking and nature would not be possible in this form. It is up to us and our behavior, so stay on legal paths and trails!

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