I always keep a couple of fingers on the brake levers and an eye well ahead on the trail for insurance in case I encounter a hiker, an unleashed dog or an equestrian. In fact, mountain bikers should ride every multi-use singletrack as if there were bird-watchers around every blind corner--but who would expect a full-sized Bengal tiger in the trail?
John Ker Photo
Mountain Bike Action's head photographer John Ker was on location in the mountains above Los Angeles, California, when a couple of animal trainers parked their vehicle at the trailhead, opened up the back, and a tiger hopped out. Clipped onto a long leash, the tiger seemed tame enough, but who can be sure?
The trainers indicated to Mr. Ker that it would be best if he and the mountain bikers with him stay in their vehicles while they were nearby.
And, who was going to argue with that? Mister Ker managed a few photos from the safety of his SUV, and he and the riders drove to another trailhead nearby
John Ker photo
The arid valleys in the area are home to many animal trainers (exotic or otherwise) who specialize in movie work. Reports of elephants and bears are not uncommon, but this is our first tiger sighting.
One can't help imagine the expression on the rider who was descending that particular singletrack that day--"Nice kitty."