Paul Thomsberg
Paul Thomasberg, a mountain biking legend and trail-building visionary, brings decades of unparalleled expertise and passion to Terra Velo. A former professional racer and Mountain Bike Hall of Famer, Paul has been at the forefront of the sport since its formative years. Known for his technical prowess and adventurous spirit, he transitioned seamlessly from champion racer to trail builder, channeling his love for the outdoors into designing trails that inspire awe and connection to nature. His hands-on experience with projects such as the Winter Rim reroute and the restoration of fire-damaged trails highlights his innovative approach, blending ecological sensitivity with the thrill of the ride. Paul's work with Shimano since 1990 has also shaped the evolution of mountain biking technology, contributing to groundbreaking advancements such as XTR components, V-brakes, and disc brakes.
As a founding member of the Central Oregon Trail Alliance (COTA) and a trail steward for over 25 years, Paul has been instrumental in crafting sustainable trail networks that cater to diverse trail user experiences. His projects, from Bend’s iconic trail system to the ambitious 265-mile Ochoco multi-use trail plan, showcase his unique ability to balance technical design with user experience. Whether wielding hand tools or operating heavy machinery, Paul approaches trail building as both an art and science, leaving behind pathways that are as functional as they are beautiful. Through his dedication to stewardship, education, and innovation, Paul continues to elevate and redefine what’s possible in trail design.