Fire damages Cumberland’s iconic Riding Fool

Late Sunday evening, fire damaged two key institutions in Cumberland’s mountain bike community, housed in a historic building on the village’s main street. The fire began in Dodge City Cycles (DCC), the first proper mountain bike shop in Cumberland, which suffered extensive damage. Riding Fool, a 20-year-old mountain bike-themed hostel catering to cyclists with bike storage and trail access, was also affected. Both businesses have been pillars of the local mountain biking scene for over two decades, supporting riders like Carter Woods in their early years. Riding Fool’s owners, including co-founder Jeremy Grasby, also co-founded United Riders of Cumberland. The fire started around 9:30 p.m. on 16 August. Cumberland Fire Chief Mike Williamson reported the fire grew quickly after being called in by a concerned individual. While the building’s structure remains intact, interior damage is confirmed. DCC’s update expressed gratitude for the fire department’s efforts and announced closure pending assessment. The businesses, which have been central to Cumberland’s mountain bike community for decades, are rebuilding and expressed hope for recovery. An investigation continues.