Shimano invests in 19 new trail projects

Shimano is strengthening its long-term commitment to trail development, representing the interests of mountain bikers, and community work. With the expansion of the Trail Born initiative for 2026, the company is building on the success it has enjoyed since the program launched in 2024. Shimano will finance a total of 19 new projects in 2026, expanding into new countries while continuing to support existing trail networks worldwide.

Investing in the future of mountain biking

The ten-year, $10 million program was created to improve the mountain biking experience in a sustainable way. Shimano is investing directly in trail infrastructure, advocacy organizations, and the people who maintain and protect these trails. The goal is not only to expand trail networks, but also to strengthen the surrounding communities.

Trail Born in numbers

Since its launch in August 2024, Shimano Trail Born has already achieved remarkable milestones:
8 trail projects supported worldwide
78 km (48.5 miles) of new trails co-financed
Construction of a 1400 m² (15,000 sq. ft.) ft.) pump track
Support for projects in North America, Europe, South Africa, and Oceania
Numerous project openings planned for spring 2026

Global expansion and new opportunities

Interest in Shimano Trail Born continues unabated. For 2026, 45 project applications were received from trail organizations around the world, of which 21 new projects were selected for funding.

Highlights for 2026

South America: Trail Born is expanding into South America for the first time with projects in Brazil and Mexico.
Asia: Continued growth with new projects in Japan, South Korea, and Indonesia.
Europe: New projects in France, Norway, and Italy. In the UK, a new project is being implemented in Scotland, while existing initiatives continue to receive funding.
North America: Geographically balanced promotion with new projects in California, Oregon, and Vermont, as well as a new project in Quebec, Canada.

A long-term promise

Trail Born reflects Shimano's belief that first-class biking experiences are created at the grassroots level—through collaboration with local trail builders, interest groups, and communities. By supporting sustainable trail development in various regions, Trail Born aims to ensure that mountain biking grows responsibly and inclusively for future generations.

bike.shimano.com/trailborn

Project in Valposchiavo

The Shimano Trail Born program, implemented by Shimano's general distributor Fuchs-Movesa, started in Switzerland in Poschiavo with the Vivabike Valposchiavo Crew as its first partner. As part of Valposchiavo Turismo, it coordinates mountain biking in the region and has been recognized by Take Care of Your Trails for its innovative commitment to trail maintenance. Instead of building new trails, the crew focuses on trail recycling. Forgotten historic trails such as the Vie da li sclenzuli are cleared of debris and branches and, if necessary, adapted so that they are rideable as trails.&Local bikers Matteo Godenzi and Francesco Lanfranchi are responsible for maintenance. During Trail Care Weeks, volunteers work with the crew, building and repairing in the mornings and riding the trails and exploring the region with guides in the afternoons. A joint work day demonstrated the practical implementation of everything from drainage and shaping to signage. The new section is called Ciak si gira and stands for cooperation and a sustainable future for the trails.

valposchiavo.ch/trail-care-week