Cycling – Introduction to Mountain Biking

Cycling is a good opportunity of escaping from the real world and getting the feel of trails, hills, and nature with mountain biking on two wheels. Ranging from the speed downhill, the four cross spectacle or the trail ride, there will always be something for everyone.

Mountain biking is quite exciting and it comes in different styles, all of which differ from one another.

Mountain Bike racing usually takes place in many off-road venues, which include the following:

1. Cross Country Races

These ones usually use woodland, parkland and forestry sites with a carefully chosen terrain, which has descents, climbs, and other technical features. As a rider here, you must have special skills in handling the breaks as you maneuver the rocks, streams, and branches.

The race involves ascending, descending, tight turns, and difficult terrains. If you are experienced, you can take several laps.

Bikes used for cross-country are normally lightweight with strong breaks and dual suspension. They are also fitted with several gears, which can accommodate the mixed terrain.

2. Downhill

These ones are shorter courses, which make use of steep terrains. The racing venue also has some technical features like tree roots, drop-offs, rocks, and jumps. Downhill tracks are made for events specifically. Downhill riders show off their bike control skills as well as their courage. Riders compete on their speed as they ride from top to bottom.

The bikes used here are made in a robust manner. They have tough tires and wheels. They are built in such a way that they can go downhill very fast and thus, they have both the rear and front suspension. Due to the spills, one must the necessary body armor and a helmet too is compulsory.

3. Four Cross Courses

This one is more like the downhill race. It is done on a steep terrain, which has man made features such as jumps. The distance is short, but the course is wide enough to allow four riders to race together shoulder to shoulder.

The obstacles in this race include such things as doubles, drop offs, table tops, stutter bumps and gap jumps. Many crashes may occur as the four competitors strive to get over the obstacles.The initial race starts with a good number of riders who are eliminated along the way by knockouts until only four riders are left.

Four cross bikes are specialized machines and they have agile frames. They also have a long travel front fork specifically designed for the four-cross track.

4. Trail

This one is a mixture of orienteering and cross-country. You can do it as an individual or as a team. The bikes used here have a sensible weight and are both fun and efficient.

Bikes, Kit and Clothing

As discussed above, the bikes depend on the venue of the race. However, you can choose a folding bike, which is easy to transport. click here to learn more about folding bikes.

Mountain biking can be done any time of the year. Thus, the clothing used depends on the season at present. You can wear cycling jerseys, padded cycling shorts, or lightweight rain jackets. All these clothing depends on the season when the event is taking place.

For downhill riders, a helmet is necessary due to the dangerous terrain. Riders must also use the right body armor and pads to minimize injuries in case of an accident.

Generally, mountain biking is such a great experience. If you are just starting out in this sport, do not be afraid. Practice and you will soon be among the best with a lot of experience.