Originally Posted by
ridinshockgun
This is only valid on purpose built, bike only trail systems and almost always results in dirt sidewalks being built for "climbing trails" or fire roads and then anything that is actually interesting to climb getting turned into downhill only. Of course if you don't virtually pave the climbing trail everyone complains because it is too hard. There is a solution here but it requires building more trails and actually building uphill trails that are interesting and challenging as well. But as soon as you build an uphill trail that is technical everyone says it should be downhill only because it has some roots and rocks on it.
I'm probably in the minority in that I like both - I love descending at high speeds on directional (and non-directional) trails and I really enjoy the challenge and workout of a technical climb. There have to be options for those who enjoy technical climbing, it isn't always just a "sufferfest" - it is a really fun challenge that to me is way better than "suffering" up a fire road or dirt sidewalk with 1000 switchbacks. I also will move over for descenders whenever possible or feasible (like 95% of the time).
On trails where there can also be hikers, or equestrians this isn't an issue to climb whatever you want because in theory the descenders need to be on the lookout for all users and under control.