California wildfires hit trails, homes and shops

(BRAIN) — It's difficult to assess the damage to bike industry from the Los Angeles-area wildfires that broke out this week, but the damage is sure to be significant. Social media reports show several bike shops that have been damaged or destroyed, while two former editors of Mountain Bike Action magazine each lost their homes. Those familiar with the area say that many mountain bike trails are likely burned and the retail industry will be affected for months.

Altadena retailer Steve Lubanski appeared on a KCAL TV news spot describing the damage to his store, Open Road Bicycle Shop, and the adjacent Bunny Museum that Lubanski runs with his wife. "It's gone," a tearful Lubanski told the reporter. 

Friends have set up a crowdfunding campaign to help industry journalist Zapata Espinoza and his daughter. 

"A friend to many, Zap has been a staple in the motocross and bicycle industry for more than 30 years and right now he could use our help in getting him back on his feet after this devastating loss," Jeff Gilberti wrote on the campaign's homepage. 

"Zap would never ask for help himself, but if you are in a position to contribute, I know he would be incredibly grateful for the financial support," Gilberti continued. 

Espinoza is the former editor of Mountain Bike Action. Another former editor, Mike Wirth, also lost his home to the fire, MBA is reporting.

Retailer Daniel Farahirad owns Just Ride L.A., a bike shop, and Just Foil Los Angeles, an electric hydrofoil and foiling school in Los Angeles.

"Our Just Foil school won't be able to teach for a few weeks at the earliest due to the damage and poor air quality. Many colleagues, friends and clients have lost homes, including my high school and many L.A. landmarks.

"Thankfully our HQ in DTLA (downtown Los Angeles) is physically ok but too soon to tell of its effects on our business. I have many mixed emotions for all of us, but we are all ready to help rebuild.

"We are grateful that we can still keep people in motion, especially during these times, helping people connect to nature, whether on land or in the water," he said.

BRAIN will report on specific damage as we can confirm. Please reach out to us at sfrothingham@outsideinc.com if you have news tips.