The Needs Assessment Report documents current public participation in off-road cycling, as well as in other trail-based recreational activities. It explores who is riding bicycles off-road and examines the demand for additional off-road cycling trails and facilities. 

Key Findings 

Participation

• Approximately 11 to 12 percent of local residents ride a bike off-road at least once a year, more than many other outdoor sports like tennis, field sports, golf and skateboarding.
• Walking and hiking are the most popular uses of unpaved trails locally. Approximately 60 to 65 percent of residents walk or hike on local trails.
• A significant percentage (40 percent) of statewide off-road cycling activity occurs in Multnomah County. Portland is also a major location for competitive off-road cycling events. 

Demographics

• People who ride bicycles off-road are similar to those who participate in other trail-based recreational activities. 
• More women participate than men.
• Peopl of all ages participate; total adult participation is roughly even between the following age groups: 18-29, 30-39, 30-39, 50 or older. 
• People of all income groups participate. Approximately one-third of participating households have incomes of $50,000 or less, while 28 percent earn more than $100,000.
• Trail-based activities, including off-road cycling, tend to have higher participation rates among people who identify as White than the population as a whole.

Demand for addtional opportunities 

• Creating additional unpaved dirt trails for walking and hiking is the highest non-motorized trail priority both statewide and in the Portland region.
• Given trends in population growth and participation, overall off-road cycling ridership is expected to grow.
• Nearly half (47 percent) of residents in the Portland region consider creating additional trails for singletrack bicycling a priority, the highest level of support statewide. However, this is lower than similar ratings for walking/hiking (76 percent), hard surface biking (59 percent), and running/jogging (54 percent).
• A local community questionnaire indicates a particular interest in beginner and moderately challenging trails.
• Most off-road cyclists prefer rides that are between 30 minutes and 2 hours in length, or approximately 3 – 11+ miles.
• Ability to experience nature and well-maintained trails are key desires.