The proliferation of pro-quality video equipment has inspired many new would-be directors. Sometimes the results aren't so great. Other times a glimpse of the next Spielberg shows through. As quality gear gets into the hands of those passionate for niche sports, the adventure and thrills are shared with others.

In step the folks at Digger Know Fear Enterprises, makers of the North Shore Extreme series. They've capitalized on the fringe riding of elevated trails, stunts, etc. that the North Shore of Vancouver gave birth to. There's probably not a single state that doesn't have some clandestine "North Shoresque" trails to challenge the hardiest local riders. Those trails need to give thanks to the originators for adding an elevated dimension to mountain biking.

Producer Todd Fiander captures the essence of the North Shore in two videos "Big Rocks, Hard Knocks" and "Dirty Dreams." Big drop after big drop interspersed with dirt jumping, urban assault and even North Shore unicycling.

The video's content certainly will appeal to a smaller segment of the greater mountain bike community. A soundtrack of mainly Canadian punk bands fuels the action. Looking for World Cup race footage? You won't find it here but you will see some incredible athletes worthy of any World Cup course. Some stunts are absolutely mind-boggling. "Why would you even think of doing that?!?!" was a common thought I had while watching the videos.

A couple of DirtWorld staffers watched the videos separately with wildly differing responses. While one was less than inspired while the other mentioned that the videos made him want to go ride. What interested one viewer bored another. The videos do have a multitude of shots that look similar to the uninitiated. But for those interested in extreme riding, the videos can serve as "how-to" manuals. Viewing them won't give you the immediate ability to land an 8-foot gap drop, but paying attention to the rider's body position and bike handling does provide insight.

I found "Big Rocks, Hard Knocks" to be the superior video because of higher quality production. Footage taken in the lush forest of British Columbia is also quite amazing. The enormity and scale of the foliage is enough to make you start planning a trip to B.C.'s North Shore. Both videos outshine Down which after 20 minutes was hard to watch.

To find out more information on the North Shore Extreme series, visit Cove Productions. Both videos run about 45 minutes and $20.

Who needs the North Shore Extreme series?

You're a big drop junkie who wants to see skilled riders in the birth place of extreme riding.

Who should pass?

You reply to the question of "How much rear travel do you have?" with "What's rear travel?"