Mountain biking is an amazing sport
because it combines the enduring thrill of cycling with the beauty and
harshness of natural landscapes and terrain. There are many breathtaking trails
all over the world, which is why more and more people decide to take up this
activity.
If you’ve
decided to do so as well, you need to remember that you also need to prepare
for the experience thoroughly and consider all the variables that are involved.
Here are the do’s and don’ts you need to consider before going on your first
mountain bike ride.
The Do’s
1. Adequate Riding Techniques
At the end
of the day, mountain biking is an extreme sport of sorts, even when it isn’t
performed at a professional level. Therefore, when you’re out on the trail for
the first time, there are two main positions that you will need to alternate
between so that your ride is a successful one, namely the neutral position and
the ready position.
The former
is best used on non-technical segments of the path
so that you roll along smoothly and comfortably. To achieve it, slightly bend
your knees and elbows, keep your eyes straight ahead and always have your index
fingers on the brake. This not only ensures that you stay safe, but it also
facilitates the transition for more difficult portions of terrain.
The latter
intervenes in such situations. To quickly switch to it, bend your knees and
elbows more, lift your rear off the seat and shift your hips back for added
balance. Ensure that your back is flat, keeping it almost parallel to the
ground below. The rest stays the same. Always look in the direction you want to
follow to keep course and be ready to hit the brakes anytime.
2. Proper Gear and Equipment
As any good
gear guide will tell
you, the most important thing to have on hand for your first ride is a reliable
mountain bike that will provide you with safety, comfort, and performance at the same time. For
beginners, the best choice is an aluminum-frame one because it is more
malleable and lighter on its wheels.
For a
heftier frame lover, steel is always the classic choice. But if you’re willing
to invest in something a bit more high-end and modern, carbon frames are all
the rage now. They provide amazing durability combining the sturdiness of steel
with the lightness of aluminum. The price will be one to match, but you will
see visible results right off the bat.
However,
not everyone will want to go out and buy a bicycle for their first ride, and
that’s perfectly understandable. If you’re just testing the sport out and don’t
want to invest in one just yet, using a bike rental service is also an option to consider. After all, proper safety
equipment is equally important, so you might want to save some money for that
as well.
And
speaking of which, forgetting or refusing to wear a helmet is a potentially
fatal mountain biking mistake that many beginners tend to commit. Although it
might seem like an extra weight that you have to carry, your helmet is essential
on your first ride because they will safeguard you in the face of any potential
accidents.
3. Respecting Trail Etiquette
An aspect
that is seldom discussed in the community is that of proper trail etiquette. Although
there are plenty of areas that can be approached via MTB only and few dare to
do so, if you’re a beginner, chances are you are going to share the road with
hikers, horses, and other fellow riders,
of course.
When you
encounter another person or an animal along the way, you need to follow a
certain set of rules so that everything unfolds smoothly. First of all, horses always
have priority because they are unpredictable. If you come across one, let it
carry on unbothered and then you can also proceed. When it comes to other
hikers or riders, things are bit more complex.
Remember
that you have more mobility on your bike, which means that you should yield the
way to those who are on foot if the need for it arises. Even though most hikers
will be the ones to yield once they see you coming at a great speed, you should
never expect them to do so. Always be prepared to clear the path for them
before you continue your journey.
Finally,
both hikers and riders who are going uphill have the right of way. It is harder
to travel in this direction, and you need to keep this in mind no matter in
what position you are in. However, not everyone sticks to the etiquette, so ensure that you are responsible enough to
prevent an accident. Always practice
caution above all else.
The Don’ts
1. Too Little Food and Water
The most
common mistake beginner mountain bikers make is not bringing enough food and
water out of a desire to travel light. While this might be done with the right
idea in mind, giving up on necessary nutrients and hydration is not the way to
go. You should always have at least one bottle of water on hand, and one
containing your electrolyte sports drink of choice.
As for on
the go snacks, energy bars are the best choice. And if you’re looking for some
variety, a small bag of trail mix is the perfect nutrient boost. As for all the
sandwich lovers out there, the classic peanut butter and jelly is an ideal
bring-along that is both tasty and energizing. Mix and match between these for
the perfect MTB lunch.
2. Dressing Inappropriately
When you’re
out on a trail for the entire trail, coordinating
your choice of clothing with the weather and terrain conditions you are going
to face is essential. And even if the forecast
is an optimistic one, things can go south all the time, especially if you live
in an area characterized by unpredictable storms.
Thus,
layering is your best friend if you want to ensure that you are always warm and
dry. Remember, it’s better to have something to
take off when you get hot than nothing to put on when it’s cold. And seeing as
how most trails will have you pass through varying altitude levels, this means
that temperatures might vary a lot along the same stretch of road.
3. Not Bringing Spares and Tools
Unfortunately,
many beginner riders learn how inconvenient not bringing a portable repair kit
can be the hard way, a.k.a. being left stranded on a remote trail for a couple
of hours with a flat tire or something of the sort. For this reason, having a
few tools and maybe even a spare on hand is a true life-saver.
The
simplest array of items can help get you back on track in no time. All you need
to carry with you is a multi-tool, tube, tire lever, and a pump. While this isn't a complete list, it will at least get you home where you can then bring
your bike in for some professional service. Don’t
ruin your first ride by not being able to get home.
Conclusion
Being a
beginner mountain bike rider is going to be a challenge, but the results will
be worth it if you prepare for the experience accordingly. Invest in a reliable
MTB and remember to use it correctly. Bring enough food and water to last you
through the trip, wear your helmet and dress appropriately for the terrain and
weather conditions outside. Have fun!
Author
Bio: Amanda
Wilks is a writer, contributing author for Mountain Bike Reviewed
and veteran
MTB rider. Her passion for mountain biking dates back to her childhood, when
she would join her dad every weekend for a quick ride uphill. She is now
addicted to the sport and she never misses a trail. Learn
more about Amanda on Twitter.
