Mountain biking can be an exhilarating sport that combines adventure with physical challenge. But to navigate challenging terrain and obstacles safely, certain techniques and equipment must be utilized.
First and foremost, you need the appropriate bike. Newcomers should start out on a cross-country mountain bike; full suspension bikes may be too challenging for beginners.
Gear
As with any sport, mountain biking requires some special gear to keep you safe and comfortable when taking to the trails. But you don’t need to spend an arm and a leg when starting out; bike tester Josh Patterson recommends “run what ya brung,” meaning only purchase new trail-ready mountain bikes once sure that they suit you perfectly.
As crashes on rough terrain are inevitable, having the proper helmet is crucial to safe riding experience. Mountain bike-specific helmets provide extra coverage that protects back of head and chin should you crash, with sun/rain shields for extra peace of mind.
Gloves offer you both protection from trail vibrations and ensure a firm grip on the handlebars, as well as maintaining an even surface on which you ride. Mountain bike gloves also feature increased padding and slimmer fit than standard cycling gloves for easier use on the trail. Likewise, having a multitool handy will enable basic trailside repairs as well as include chain breaking technology for fast link replacement when necessary.
Equipment
Mountain bikes’ gears convert the pedal power that is generated into forward momentum on the trail, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride experience. Knowing which gears to use can make your ride simpler and more pleasurable.
Be sure to bring along a basic repair kit and some means of air inflation. There’s nothing worse than discovering that your bike has a flat tire 15km into a ride without being equipped to fix it! At minimum, an ideal repair kit should contain: tire irons; an appropriate tube size (check compatibility before purchasing); tube repair tools; tire irons and some form of inflation device like a pump or cartridge for inflating said tube.
Finally, having bike-specific knee pads and body armor are necessary when riding mountain bikes. A multitool is essential for quick trailside repairs – many bike-specific multitools include Allen keys, chain tools, spoke wrenches and flatheads – while track pumps make great additions to your toolbox for cleaning and lubing between rides.
Trails
Mountain bike safety may seem obvious; always wear a helmet is one such tip; however, mountain biking is an exhilarating outdoor activity requiring skill and knowledge, and prioritizing these precautions can lower risk and allow you to enjoy this incredible sport safely.
Before riding your bicycle, be sure to conduct a comprehensive check to make sure it’s functioning optimally. Pay particular attention for loose bolts, damaged wheels or rims, insufficient tire pressure or any other potential issues that may be present.
Select Trails
Be mindful of your skill level and select trails within your abilities. If a trail seems too challenging, do not attempt it – doing so could only lead to frustration and an increased risk of an accident.
Consider packing a first-aid kit, multi-tool and basic repair kit as you hike. Additionally, bring along a backpack to carry snacks, water and any necessary gear.
Safety
Mountain biking offers unparalleled joy, as you connect with nature on challenging terrain. However, with this exhilaration comes the responsibility of prioritizing safety measures to ensure a seamless experience and ensure a successful ride.
Some of these tips may seem obvious: always wear a helmet, stay hydrated and employ proper riding technique – but it is essential to realize that mountain biking carries greater risks of injury than other forms of recreational cycling. One misstep could cause an accident; even minor injuries can have far-reaching repercussions.
To reduce risk, be mindful of your abilities and select trails that suit your level of experience. Stay informed by reading bike magazines or websites related to outdoor recreation for information on trail conditions, weather changes, possible closures and basic repairs such as multi-tool and spare tubes – always carry these in your basic repair kit and always signal when passing other riders and announce your presence by signaling, making an announcement when necessary and leaving no trace behind.
