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Riding on a straight path and riding on a curvy-rocky terrain are exactly two different sides of riding. It can be quite a challenging task to opt to ride on mountains. Before making such a call one needs to learn about some mountain biking tips and mountain biking techniques.
The most important prerequisites before you go mountain bike riding are the accessories and proper clothing that shall definitely help you while riding. Firstly, you would need a mountain helmet to protect you and mountain biking gloves for that proper riding grip.
There are a lot of things that you would need to check before starting your adventure riding trip. Above all, make sure that your ride is comfortable and your cycle is in a good condition.
Read This- Know Your E-Bike Better
Mountain Biking Tips & Mountain Biking Techniques to keep in mind before you set on your riding journey:
Saddle position and height depend from person to person. It has everything to do with personal comfort. You can alter the saddle position for yourself and see what works best.
The appropriate amount of tyre pressure is very much necessary to make your ride smooth and enjoyable. The friction would be less with too much tyre pressure and the tyre would start folding and the rocks would hit the rim in case of less pressure. This is why it is very important to find that perfect tyre pressure.
You need to clean your bike at proper intervals to ensure smooth functioning. The parts like gears and suspension also need to be clean and not just the outer body of the cycle. Don’t forget to grease the chain of the cycle after every wish because it would get dry and would affect the efficiency. From time to time you should also check the bolts of the bike, in case they get loose.
Don’t get too aggressive on the cycle gears. There has to be a systematic shift in the cycle gears to ensure a smooth ride on rough terrain.
The most important mountain biking tip to keep in mind is no matter what kind of trail you’re going to ride on, the perfect set of clothes is what makes the ride more comfortable and fun-filled.
1.Shorts – Mountain Biking shorts come in various different styles and fits. They generally come with an inner lining that helps in absorbing sweat and also helps in dealing with the friction caused by the saddle.
2.Jerseys- just like shorts, jerseys also come in different fits. You would definitely want your jersey to absorb sweat quickly and at the same time dry fast. They should be easy to wash.
3.Gloves- a good pair of gloves helps in reducing a lot of wrist fatigue while mountain biking. Gloves help in the protection of the hand at the time of a crash and full-fingered gloves help in keeping the rider warm.
As much as it is important for you to dress up in accordance with the trail, in the same way, it is very important to accessorise your bike. This is a great mountain biking tip that every rider should follow.
1.Mountain Bike Helmets: These are different from your regular road bike helmets. They offer more coverage and hence, more protection to the rider. Mountain bike helmets are designed in such a way that they safeguard the rider in case of a fall or a crash.
2.Hydration Backpacks: Staying hydrated will help you last longer in the mountains. No matter any kind of physical activity that you opt for, you’ll be able to perform better only if you’re hydrated. This rucksack allows you to drink water effortlessly without taking off your pack. Often, you don’t even have to use your hands. The water is stored in a water bladder stowed in a hydration sleeve inside the pack. You access the fluid via a hose.
3.Emergency Kit Essentials: Pack a few repair kit essentials while going mountain biking and save yourself the hassle and stress of walking in times of need and asking for help. Pick up an extra tube, a CO2 inflator and a chain tool.
When you are about to make a turn, brake before you do so and then let your momentum take you through the turn. This enables you to concentrate on your technique throughout the turn and exit it quickly.
Momentum can also be your ally when climbing over and around trailside obstacles. When approaching obstacles, novice riders frequently drastically slow down. You'll be able to navigate these challenging trail sections with controlled momentum.
The majority of mountain biking involves at least some ups and downs, so knowing how to properly shift gears is important. In addition to reducing wear and tear on your bike (particularly the chain, front cassette, and rear cogs), good shifting techniques also help you propel yourself more effectively up and down hills.
Shift frequently: Novice riders should practise frequently changing gears. By doing so, you develop muscle memory that enables you to instinctively change gears as needed without having to consider whether you are moving up or down a gear that is easier or harder.
Don't wait until you've already begun climbing that steep hill to make a shift; do it now. Before you encounter the steep terrain, always change into the gear you will need. As a result, you can maintain a constant cycling cadence for maximum power. Additionally, it avoids jerky shifting while under a load, which can be taxing on your gears and risk snapping your chain.
Last but not least, always keep pedalling even when shifting. The chain may break or be damaged if you don't pedal while shifting.
You will eventually encounter a tight situation while riding the trails. Avoid "fighting the bike" if you get stuck in a rut on the trail. Try your best to endure it. Impossible? Stopping and walking away is not a sin. Walking is unquestionably acceptable when mountain biking. Many trails have required hike-a-bike sections that are too challenging to navigate on a bike, either up or down.
Mountain biking frequently takes place on trails or roads that also serve as travel routes for horses and other users. Always ride courteously, responsibly, and with control over your bike. Ride only on mountain bike trails that are available. Among the most crucial guidelines are the following:
Uphill cyclists must always be given the right of way (in singletrack, stop completely and lift the bike out of the trail).
When driving near hikers or horses, take your time and give them plenty of room. Taking direction from the horseback rider is a good strategy when dealing with horses. Give a friendly greeting and let the other trail users know you're riding.
A cycle-riding enthusiast should once in a lifetime undergo this mountain biking adventure keeping in mind all the mountain biking tips and mountain biking techniques.
