in 1986, mountain bikes were making their mark in Canada, as cyclists swapped out their 10-speeds for more rugged rides. This CBC news segment from The National explores the early days of the mountain biking craze, featuring enthusiasts like Ian K., who traded his Volkswagen-like commuter for an $800 mountain bike, likening it to driving a Porsche. While the trend was just beginning, the piece questions whether mountain biking would remain a luxury niche or become a mainstream activity as prices dropped and mass availability rose. Originally aired on May 26, 1986.

  • Socialist Mormon SatanistEnglish
    -4•17 hours ago

    Man, I lived in a mountain state in the 90’s and even there and then, lots of people thought it was a fad. I remember people wanting mountain bikes to stay off the bike paths.

    And now, it’s way harder to find a road bike than a generic “mountain bike.” lol

    Love this vid tho, so thanks OP! :)

  • mapto
    2•29 days ago

    @avidamoeba I thought “mountain” stands at least for a sloped hill, maybe some bumpy path. In this video I see only tarmac roads flat as an artificial lake.
    (watched it with no audio)

    • Avid AmoebaOPEnglish
      2•29 days ago

      They’re talking about the MTB getting into cities, so yeah. 😀

        • Avid AmoebaOPEnglish
          2•29 days ago

          For a while. But the modern gravel bikes that are super popular around here are essentially 90s MTBs with 700c wheels and drop bars. So it’s kinda back. 😂

            • Avid AmoebaOPEnglish
              2•29 days ago

              Agreed. I’m riding a similar bike myself, except it’s steel and has riser bars.

              • LovesTha🥧
                1•29 days ago

                @avidamoeba My gravel bike is steel. Steel is a good material to make bikes from. That is bikes intended to be used and repaired.