Mountain Bike Racing
Who can race?
Everyone! Most mountain bike race events are divided into different categories: gender, age and ability. So even if you are just beginning to love the sport or if you have been riding for several years, there is a race for you.
Mountain Biking - First Race Click here
Who organizes the race?
Many of the best mountain biking races for beginners are organized by local communities. And most participants can be your friends and neighbors. How many joins this race? Depending on its popularity – maybe 30 or 100. The good thing about community-organized races is that they are less competitive as they are often participated by average riders like you. So if it is your first time to join a race, this is a good starting point.
Check with your local bike shop and bike websites to find if there are race events nearby.
Why race?
Racing improves your riding skill and makes you a better rider. Racing gives you a goal, which drives you to perform better than in casual biking. It improves your focus on the road. Since you dare to ride as fast as you can, it increases your reaction time to every bend, corners, rocks and dips. Also, knowing that the race is coming up, you eat and prepare better.
How much does it cost?
Entry or registration fee for community mountain bike race usually costs between $10 and $35. This usually includes t-shirt. Regional races are a bit higher. Often, gift certificates and bike gears are given and prizes.
Speaking of prizes, awards are given in all categories like Women 30-39 Beginner, Men 30-39 Beginner, Men 30-39 Expert, Men 40-49 Beginner etc. So there are several chances of winning. When they speak of the “depth”, it means the number of places that is awarded for a particular category. If the awards are “five deep”, that means prizes are given from first up to fifth place.
Either way, it is not about the prize but for the fun of biking.
What are the rules?
Know if you should be “self-supporting”, meaning you have to provide everything you need during the race from water supply to repair tools. If not, ask if you can share tools and inner tubes with your teammates or other rides. Also, check if you can munch powerbars while riding or get water-bottle from your pit-crew as turn a lap. These are important details to know.
There are unwritten, non-technical rules in mountain biking race. First, do not mess with other riders. Do not block. Do not draft (riding directly behind another rider and use him as shield block the air). Do not endanger another rider. The aim of the race is fun and camaraderie so do not spoil it by kicking someone else’s bike or throwing an empty water-bottle to other competitors.
What to prepare?
Be physically fit. Get stronger. Ride more often. Run the course at least once before the race to familiarize the terrain. Register in advance. Pack everything you need a night before.
On race day, arrive an hour early. This gives you time to rest, mingle with other racers and do some final check with your bike (do not change major parts on race day unless it is completely necessary). After the race, hang out with other racers, cheer for the late finishers, wait for the awarding and recall the day’s event.
Mountain Biking Resources
By: Ram Gunjal
About the Author:
Everyone! Most mountain bike race events are divided into different categories: gender, age and ability. So even if you are just beginning to love the sport or if you have been riding for several years, there is a race for you.
Mountain Biking - First Race Click here
Who organizes the race?
Many of the best mountain biking races for beginners are organized by local communities. And most participants can be your friends and neighbors. How many joins this race? Depending on its popularity – maybe 30 or 100. The good thing about community-organized races is that they are less competitive as they are often participated by average riders like you. So if it is your first time to join a race, this is a good starting point.
Check with your local bike shop and bike websites to find if there are race events nearby.
Why race?
Racing improves your riding skill and makes you a better rider. Racing gives you a goal, which drives you to perform better than in casual biking. It improves your focus on the road. Since you dare to ride as fast as you can, it increases your reaction time to every bend, corners, rocks and dips. Also, knowing that the race is coming up, you eat and prepare better.
How much does it cost?
Entry or registration fee for community mountain bike race usually costs between $10 and $35. This usually includes t-shirt. Regional races are a bit higher. Often, gift certificates and bike gears are given and prizes.
Speaking of prizes, awards are given in all categories like Women 30-39 Beginner, Men 30-39 Beginner, Men 30-39 Expert, Men 40-49 Beginner etc. So there are several chances of winning. When they speak of the “depth”, it means the number of places that is awarded for a particular category. If the awards are “five deep”, that means prizes are given from first up to fifth place.
Either way, it is not about the prize but for the fun of biking.
What are the rules?
Know if you should be “self-supporting”, meaning you have to provide everything you need during the race from water supply to repair tools. If not, ask if you can share tools and inner tubes with your teammates or other rides. Also, check if you can munch powerbars while riding or get water-bottle from your pit-crew as turn a lap. These are important details to know.
There are unwritten, non-technical rules in mountain biking race. First, do not mess with other riders. Do not block. Do not draft (riding directly behind another rider and use him as shield block the air). Do not endanger another rider. The aim of the race is fun and camaraderie so do not spoil it by kicking someone else’s bike or throwing an empty water-bottle to other competitors.
What to prepare?
Be physically fit. Get stronger. Ride more often. Run the course at least once before the race to familiarize the terrain. Register in advance. Pack everything you need a night before.
On race day, arrive an hour early. This gives you time to rest, mingle with other racers and do some final check with your bike (do not change major parts on race day unless it is completely necessary). After the race, hang out with other racers, cheer for the late finishers, wait for the awarding and recall the day’s event.
Mountain Biking Resources
By: Ram Gunjal
About the Author:
Internet Marketer Since 2002.
Extreme Mountain Biking
Like most goods that are for sale, the better the quality is, the more expensive the goods become and so the materials used in mountain bikes determine in large part the price tag that it will have. Generally, the lighter the frame of the bike, the more expensive it becomes. Special alloys have been developed to make the mountain bike so. This is done because the last thing that a mountain biker would want when riding is the added weight. Frames being the heaviest part of the bike have to be made lighter. This is the ideal especially for competitive biking; however market forces will always dictate that options are made varied. Mountain Biking Tips
Mountain bike frame materials
Cro-moly – bike frames that are made from cro-moly are often the choice for starter mountain bikes. Cro-moly though being made from steel is heavy. On the other hand, cro-moly has the ability to flex over bumps that the ride of the bike could be slightly smoother. There is nothing wrong with a cro-moly frame provided the rider is not bothered by the added weight. As cro-moly is used for basic bike road bike frames, the rider has to test it out and compare it with other bike frame materials. The added weight of the steel will hinder competitive riding although this may not matter much when mountain biking is done purely for the fun of it.
Aluminum – Aluminum bike frames are lighter bike frame materials and are a more popular choice than cro-moly. Aluminum however is not as strong as steel. To make it more durable, the frame has to be made stiff that translate into bulkier frames. Stiffening the aluminum also result into a stiffer ride.
Carbon fiber – is an ideal material although its main use is for the front fork of the bike. For carbon fiber to be used for the whole frame will mean more expense on the buyer, but carbon fiber being a lightweight and yet very strong material will provide a truly high performance ride.
Titanium – titanium is amazingly light and strong at the same time. This should be the best material for high performance very sophisticated bikes. The price though could be well beyond the reach of most mountain biking enthusiast and competitive bikers.
Mountain bike frame sizing
Another important factor in considering a bike frame is its size. The correct size of a mountain bike is of vital importance since the bikers comfort and agility will depend much on this. Mountain bikes are made smaller than the ordinary road bikes. To get the ideal size, the mountain bike should be at least three inches smaller than your ordinary road bike. Another way to do it is to put the bike between the legs with the tip of the saddle touching your back. Lift the front wheels until it touches your crotch. The front wheels should be about 10 centimeters off the ground.
Angles
The angle of the bike’s frame translates drastically on how the mountain bike will perform. Critical angles are the head tube and the seat tube. Angles that are steeper are ideal for uphill pedaling while slacker angles are good for stability and high speed pedaling.
Extreme Mountain Biking
By: Ram Gunjal
About the Author:
Mountain bike frame materials
Cro-moly – bike frames that are made from cro-moly are often the choice for starter mountain bikes. Cro-moly though being made from steel is heavy. On the other hand, cro-moly has the ability to flex over bumps that the ride of the bike could be slightly smoother. There is nothing wrong with a cro-moly frame provided the rider is not bothered by the added weight. As cro-moly is used for basic bike road bike frames, the rider has to test it out and compare it with other bike frame materials. The added weight of the steel will hinder competitive riding although this may not matter much when mountain biking is done purely for the fun of it.
Aluminum – Aluminum bike frames are lighter bike frame materials and are a more popular choice than cro-moly. Aluminum however is not as strong as steel. To make it more durable, the frame has to be made stiff that translate into bulkier frames. Stiffening the aluminum also result into a stiffer ride.
Carbon fiber – is an ideal material although its main use is for the front fork of the bike. For carbon fiber to be used for the whole frame will mean more expense on the buyer, but carbon fiber being a lightweight and yet very strong material will provide a truly high performance ride.
Titanium – titanium is amazingly light and strong at the same time. This should be the best material for high performance very sophisticated bikes. The price though could be well beyond the reach of most mountain biking enthusiast and competitive bikers.
Mountain bike frame sizing
Another important factor in considering a bike frame is its size. The correct size of a mountain bike is of vital importance since the bikers comfort and agility will depend much on this. Mountain bikes are made smaller than the ordinary road bikes. To get the ideal size, the mountain bike should be at least three inches smaller than your ordinary road bike. Another way to do it is to put the bike between the legs with the tip of the saddle touching your back. Lift the front wheels until it touches your crotch. The front wheels should be about 10 centimeters off the ground.
Angles
The angle of the bike’s frame translates drastically on how the mountain bike will perform. Critical angles are the head tube and the seat tube. Angles that are steeper are ideal for uphill pedaling while slacker angles are good for stability and high speed pedaling.
Extreme Mountain Biking
By: Ram Gunjal
About the Author:
Training For a Mountain Bike Race
Mountain biking belongs to the category of sports that fills your need for adrenaline rush and excitement. From the moment you get on your mountain bikes until the time you rush downhill or cross country, you feel strong and free and you momentarily forget life’s worries. You throw all caution to the wind, vulnerable yet unaffected by the elements that may come your path.
But of course you can’t just get in there and engage in racing bicycles without at least considering the basics of this sport.
It all starts with sorting through an array of mountain bicycles for sale and choosing what’s right for you. There are several classifications of mountain bikes with the differences between them centering on the setting where you’ll use them. Cross Country Mountain Bikes are mainly suited for trails. Downhill Mountain Bikes are designed for downward riding. These bikes are more appropriate to use on elevations such as valleys or mountain sides where you partly use gravity to propel you.
Upon choosing the right mountain bicycle that would help you easily navigate your target terrains, you start off with addressing the fitness factor. You can’t just jump in there and do difficult stunts without making sure your body is at par with the challenge. You need to be familiar with the three systems that our body uses in physical activity.
The first is the adenosine triphosphate or ATP system that gives our body the necessary boost to do a certain activity. In just a few seconds, we gradually lose this energy and it must be replenished in order for you to keep going. These exercises require major effort and so you must do them far and between.
The Anaerobic system doesn’t require much effort and lasts a little longer than ATP. The goal of this training is to increase your body’s lactic acid so that you can perform longer at the same time maintaining a high intensity.
The Aerobic system is a staple in cross country biking. It allows longer function than the first two energy systems and is thus more sustainable. Because it is much needed in bicycle racing, you need to invest a certain amount of time in Aerobic training.
This gives you an idea of the different systems that your body uses for physical activities. If you want to race you need to exercise these systems to enhance your fitness level. So not only do you need to make sure that your new or used bicycles are in order but you need to make sure your body can perform for the event.
By: Bike Servant
About the Author:
But of course you can’t just get in there and engage in racing bicycles without at least considering the basics of this sport.
It all starts with sorting through an array of mountain bicycles for sale and choosing what’s right for you. There are several classifications of mountain bikes with the differences between them centering on the setting where you’ll use them. Cross Country Mountain Bikes are mainly suited for trails. Downhill Mountain Bikes are designed for downward riding. These bikes are more appropriate to use on elevations such as valleys or mountain sides where you partly use gravity to propel you.
Upon choosing the right mountain bicycle that would help you easily navigate your target terrains, you start off with addressing the fitness factor. You can’t just jump in there and do difficult stunts without making sure your body is at par with the challenge. You need to be familiar with the three systems that our body uses in physical activity.
The first is the adenosine triphosphate or ATP system that gives our body the necessary boost to do a certain activity. In just a few seconds, we gradually lose this energy and it must be replenished in order for you to keep going. These exercises require major effort and so you must do them far and between.
The Anaerobic system doesn’t require much effort and lasts a little longer than ATP. The goal of this training is to increase your body’s lactic acid so that you can perform longer at the same time maintaining a high intensity.
The Aerobic system is a staple in cross country biking. It allows longer function than the first two energy systems and is thus more sustainable. Because it is much needed in bicycle racing, you need to invest a certain amount of time in Aerobic training.
This gives you an idea of the different systems that your body uses for physical activities. If you want to race you need to exercise these systems to enhance your fitness level. So not only do you need to make sure that your new or used bicycles are in order but you need to make sure your body can perform for the event.
By: Bike Servant
About the Author:
Experience with full suspension and hardtail mountain bikes, bike parts and organizing race events for mountain biking.
mountain bike parts
bicycles for sale
Accessorize Your Mountain Bike
You’ve decided to take up the exciting and challenging sport of mountain biking. Unlike casual biking, you need much more than just a helmet to ensure that you have a safe ride as you hit the trails.
Mountain biking is such a popular sport that there is now a vast range of accessories for both men and women. Make sure you do a bit of research on each item you want to purchase to make sure you buy the best quality for the amount of money you want to spend.
Bike helmet
We may be listing the bike helmet as an ‘accessory’ but it really isn’t. It is a necessary piece of equipment. In mountain biking, it is not a question of if you’re going to fall, it’s a question of when. And when you take a header over your handlebars, having a secure helmet on your head could well save your life. Although you can buy most accessories second hand if you so desire, the bike helmet is something that you want to buy brand-new, and make sure that it fits your head properly. And if you do have an accident in which any damage occurs to the helmet, the wisdom is that you should purchase another one. One accident per helmet - that’s the rule.
Eye protection
Have you ever been riding on the road and been passed by a car that sends up a spurt of gravel at you? If any of that gets into your eyes, you have to stop immediately to clear your vision. If you’re on a trail heading downhill at a breakneck pace, and a baleful bee takes that opportunity to hit you in the eye, the following seconds could end up being very uncomfortable. Glasses or sunglasses are one solution, but the best method is to wear goggles. Whatever you get, make sure that lenses are non-breakable.
Hydration system
It’s common sense to bring a water bottle with you when you go out on a trail ride. It’s very easy to get dehydrated which brings your energy right down. However, in order to drink from your water bottle you have to take your hand off one of the handles, and there are sometimes when you don’t want to do that. A hydration backpack is a good solution. As a backpack you can put all kinds of necessary inside it, and when you need a drink you just reach over with your mouth to the bite valve and take a sip.
Mountain bike shorts
These days bike saddles are a lot more comfortable than they used to be. There are saddles made especially for women as well as men, and you can purchase gel-filled saddles that make the hours you spend on your bike a bit more comfortable. But you’ll also want padded bike underwear and padded bike shorts, just for extra comfort.
Mountain bike gloves
If you fall off your bike (or should that be, when), your hands will probably be the first thing to hit the ground - either a paved road, a graveled road, dirt, mud, bushes…all sorts of hazards that can rip up your hands unless they’re properly protected. Gloves serve another purpose as well, of course. If you’re heading down the trail your hands will get sweaty which could cause problems keeping your hands on your bike grips. Wearing gloves eliminates that problem.
Mountain biking shoes
These days there’s a shoe made for every sport under the sun, including that of mountain biking. The main difference in mountain bike shoes is the type of sole - designed for the different types of pedals out there: with clips or clipless. The clipless type of pedal requires that your shoes be fitted with special cleats. The shoes need to be durable and comfortable.
Trail repair kit
Regardless of what type of biking you do, it always makes sense to carry a bicycle repair kit with you. However, you can ‘get away’ with not carrying one if you ride on the streets of your city. You’ll just be a phone call away from someone who can come and help you if you have a flat, after all. It’s not that easy if you’re out in the woods and your cell phone doesn’t work. Always have a a multi-tool designed for bike repair, tire levers, and a patch kit for fixing flat tires. However, having a repair kit will do you little good if you don’t know how to use the tools! So make sure that after you purchase your kit you familiarize with each of the tools and how to use them! It’s easy once you know how.
By: Alastair Hamilton
About the Author:
Mountain biking is such a popular sport that there is now a vast range of accessories for both men and women. Make sure you do a bit of research on each item you want to purchase to make sure you buy the best quality for the amount of money you want to spend.
Bike helmet
We may be listing the bike helmet as an ‘accessory’ but it really isn’t. It is a necessary piece of equipment. In mountain biking, it is not a question of if you’re going to fall, it’s a question of when. And when you take a header over your handlebars, having a secure helmet on your head could well save your life. Although you can buy most accessories second hand if you so desire, the bike helmet is something that you want to buy brand-new, and make sure that it fits your head properly. And if you do have an accident in which any damage occurs to the helmet, the wisdom is that you should purchase another one. One accident per helmet - that’s the rule.
Eye protection
Have you ever been riding on the road and been passed by a car that sends up a spurt of gravel at you? If any of that gets into your eyes, you have to stop immediately to clear your vision. If you’re on a trail heading downhill at a breakneck pace, and a baleful bee takes that opportunity to hit you in the eye, the following seconds could end up being very uncomfortable. Glasses or sunglasses are one solution, but the best method is to wear goggles. Whatever you get, make sure that lenses are non-breakable.
Hydration system
It’s common sense to bring a water bottle with you when you go out on a trail ride. It’s very easy to get dehydrated which brings your energy right down. However, in order to drink from your water bottle you have to take your hand off one of the handles, and there are sometimes when you don’t want to do that. A hydration backpack is a good solution. As a backpack you can put all kinds of necessary inside it, and when you need a drink you just reach over with your mouth to the bite valve and take a sip.
Mountain bike shorts
These days bike saddles are a lot more comfortable than they used to be. There are saddles made especially for women as well as men, and you can purchase gel-filled saddles that make the hours you spend on your bike a bit more comfortable. But you’ll also want padded bike underwear and padded bike shorts, just for extra comfort.
Mountain bike gloves
If you fall off your bike (or should that be, when), your hands will probably be the first thing to hit the ground - either a paved road, a graveled road, dirt, mud, bushes…all sorts of hazards that can rip up your hands unless they’re properly protected. Gloves serve another purpose as well, of course. If you’re heading down the trail your hands will get sweaty which could cause problems keeping your hands on your bike grips. Wearing gloves eliminates that problem.
Mountain biking shoes
These days there’s a shoe made for every sport under the sun, including that of mountain biking. The main difference in mountain bike shoes is the type of sole - designed for the different types of pedals out there: with clips or clipless. The clipless type of pedal requires that your shoes be fitted with special cleats. The shoes need to be durable and comfortable.
Trail repair kit
Regardless of what type of biking you do, it always makes sense to carry a bicycle repair kit with you. However, you can ‘get away’ with not carrying one if you ride on the streets of your city. You’ll just be a phone call away from someone who can come and help you if you have a flat, after all. It’s not that easy if you’re out in the woods and your cell phone doesn’t work. Always have a a multi-tool designed for bike repair, tire levers, and a patch kit for fixing flat tires. However, having a repair kit will do you little good if you don’t know how to use the tools! So make sure that after you purchase your kit you familiarize with each of the tools and how to use them! It’s easy once you know how.
By: Alastair Hamilton
About the Author:
Alastair Hamilton is a syndicated writer of http://www.bikecyclingreviews.com . If you would like more information on this topic please checkout his website at mountain bikes
Preparing For A Mountain Biking Adventure
For outdoor recreation, mountain biking or simply bicycling is one exciting and thrilling activity that is making lots of fun to many people. And, more than fun, many join group of mountain bikers for health reason. Many have proven that cycling is very effective way to achieve a healthy and fit body.
Mountain biking is popular in and out of Bryce Canyon; however it is dangerous due to the fact that the bikes move both fast and quiet. Also, the nature of the activity requires that most of the cyclists attention is on balance, concentration, and control, and less is available for watching for bears.
Cycling is something that you can do for your whole life as long as you keep it fun. It is an individual challenge, obliging you to depend on your own skills when out alone. Knowing how to repair your bike or care for a wound are necessary to avoid becoming stranded or worsening an injury– these are just some you need undergo in cycling.
Mountain biking is roughly broken; it is a lot like tennis or skiing. Just a few minor adjustments in techniques can make a huge difference in your control and proficiency.
It needs a lot of dedication and passion to really become a successful cyclist.
Mountain biking is mostly riding off road, but much of the time you are riding on backcountry dirt roads. A mountain biking experience is commonly slower than road biking, dustier, and with shorter climbs.
There are some important things you should remember when you want to experience this extreme sports. First, you have to visit your doctor first to make it sure that you are best-fitted for mountain biking. Then, having checked and told you are capable, you need to undergo some sort of physical fitness activity to prepare your body system. Stretching/Exercising in the morning is one way of doing that. You also need to consider eating right amount of foods, with the right nutrients. Taking vitamins can also help.
When your are already prepared physically, emotionally, mentally, it is time to prepare the necessary mountain biking accessories– ask about biking accessories you may need at the stores near you. You wil also need first aid stuffs.
More tips:
Joining in mountain biking clubs allows you to be more aware of the do’s and don’ts of this sport. That includes of course, knowing several prohibition for the sake of environmental protection. By joining clubs, you have the opportunity to be exposed in several orientations or seminars.
By: Bercle George
About the Author:
Mountain biking is popular in and out of Bryce Canyon; however it is dangerous due to the fact that the bikes move both fast and quiet. Also, the nature of the activity requires that most of the cyclists attention is on balance, concentration, and control, and less is available for watching for bears.
Cycling is something that you can do for your whole life as long as you keep it fun. It is an individual challenge, obliging you to depend on your own skills when out alone. Knowing how to repair your bike or care for a wound are necessary to avoid becoming stranded or worsening an injury– these are just some you need undergo in cycling.
Mountain biking is roughly broken; it is a lot like tennis or skiing. Just a few minor adjustments in techniques can make a huge difference in your control and proficiency.
It needs a lot of dedication and passion to really become a successful cyclist.
Mountain biking is mostly riding off road, but much of the time you are riding on backcountry dirt roads. A mountain biking experience is commonly slower than road biking, dustier, and with shorter climbs.
There are some important things you should remember when you want to experience this extreme sports. First, you have to visit your doctor first to make it sure that you are best-fitted for mountain biking. Then, having checked and told you are capable, you need to undergo some sort of physical fitness activity to prepare your body system. Stretching/Exercising in the morning is one way of doing that. You also need to consider eating right amount of foods, with the right nutrients. Taking vitamins can also help.
When your are already prepared physically, emotionally, mentally, it is time to prepare the necessary mountain biking accessories– ask about biking accessories you may need at the stores near you. You wil also need first aid stuffs.
More tips:
Joining in mountain biking clubs allows you to be more aware of the do’s and don’ts of this sport. That includes of course, knowing several prohibition for the sake of environmental protection. By joining clubs, you have the opportunity to be exposed in several orientations or seminars.
By: Bercle George
About the Author:
For more information, visit http://www.bikingmastery.com/
Mountain Bike Skills You Need Before You Attempt Mountain Biking
Anyone who knows how to ride a bicycle can enjoy mountain biking. There are some dangers to mountain biking, when it is compared to the standard bike ride. It is for this reason that mastering the following beginner mountain bike skills is a necessity prior to taking off for your mountain bike excursion.
These skills can all be practiced by heading to any school, local park, around your house, or on a bike path. The key to the right location is if it has a steep hill for you to practice on.
The pedals are an important part of a mountain bike. You can practice getting a feel for the pedals by doing the following:
Sit on your bike
Place one foot on the ground
Release and Replace your foot while pedaling around
Note: If you have clipless foot pedals or toe clips, you will want to practice this quite a bit.
Sit and Spin for position with the following:
Adjust the seat height so that the leg is a minimum of 70% extended at the bottom of each pedal cycle
Bend arms slightly
Keep the body as relaxed as possible; a position should never occur that requires you to lock your elbows or knees.
Sit on the Mountain bike and pedal
Practice shifting gears with the following:
Make sure you know the differences in gears on your bike
Try a high gear-It is hard to pedal, but rides at a faster speed
Try a low gear-Easier to pedal, particularly useful while on hills
Try shifting prior to reaching the hill-This is important because it is easy to overcome a shift before the hill than it is while on the hill.
Practice coasting with the following:
Practice this while standing on the pedals, not sitting on the bike seat
Do not lock your knees
Keep arms slightly bent
Attempt coasting while shifting the body towards the rear of the mountain bike
Practice pedaling while standing with the following:
This is important in mountain biking
Try pedaling standing up in two different ways, once you have become comfortable with standing on the pedals.
First, pedal while standing in a high gear on flatter grounds.
Then, pedal while standing in a low gear on hills.
Practice dropping down a curb with the following:
Locate a curb in the area; it should be easily accessible in regards to the upper portion
Using a moderate speed, practice coasting and standing off the curb to the lower level from the upper level.
Continue this at different speeds until you are comfortable with it and it is like second nature
The above practicing techniques are important because they will give you the feel of the mountain bike trail, without having to be on one while you are training.
By: Gregg Hall
About the Author:
These skills can all be practiced by heading to any school, local park, around your house, or on a bike path. The key to the right location is if it has a steep hill for you to practice on.
The pedals are an important part of a mountain bike. You can practice getting a feel for the pedals by doing the following:
Sit on your bike
Place one foot on the ground
Release and Replace your foot while pedaling around
Note: If you have clipless foot pedals or toe clips, you will want to practice this quite a bit.
Sit and Spin for position with the following:
Adjust the seat height so that the leg is a minimum of 70% extended at the bottom of each pedal cycle
Bend arms slightly
Keep the body as relaxed as possible; a position should never occur that requires you to lock your elbows or knees.
Sit on the Mountain bike and pedal
Practice shifting gears with the following:
Make sure you know the differences in gears on your bike
Try a high gear-It is hard to pedal, but rides at a faster speed
Try a low gear-Easier to pedal, particularly useful while on hills
Try shifting prior to reaching the hill-This is important because it is easy to overcome a shift before the hill than it is while on the hill.
Practice coasting with the following:
Practice this while standing on the pedals, not sitting on the bike seat
Do not lock your knees
Keep arms slightly bent
Attempt coasting while shifting the body towards the rear of the mountain bike
Practice pedaling while standing with the following:
This is important in mountain biking
Try pedaling standing up in two different ways, once you have become comfortable with standing on the pedals.
First, pedal while standing in a high gear on flatter grounds.
Then, pedal while standing in a low gear on hills.
Practice dropping down a curb with the following:
Locate a curb in the area; it should be easily accessible in regards to the upper portion
Using a moderate speed, practice coasting and standing off the curb to the lower level from the upper level.
Continue this at different speeds until you are comfortable with it and it is like second nature
The above practicing techniques are important because they will give you the feel of the mountain bike trail, without having to be on one while you are training.
By: Gregg Hall
About the Author:
Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Florida. Find more about cycling and Cycling Gear and Apparel at http://www.cyclinggearplus.com
Top Reasons Why You Should Not Quit Mountain Biking!
Your neighbors or probably even your friend will just roll their eyes if you tell them you have started mountain biking. They might say, “You are just wasting your time because you will quit anyway.” If stirring skepticism is all that you create, why not put it in a positive way. Whenever you feel like quitting, remember all these people who do not believe that you can stay on your bike. Prove them wrong.
It makes you feel good about yourself
You might have seen some changes in your body after just weeks of regular mountain biking. What more if you maintain it for several months?
When you ride, you burn lots of calories that should have turned into fat if you did not decide to get moving. Riding helps you keep in shape. And if you are in shape, you start to feel good about yourself, which can be reflected to the way you act, communicate and relate with others.
Also, you are often judged as a person through physical appearance. If you look good, many will think of you as trustworthy and smart. If you are fat, you may be labeled as dumb, lazy and untrustworthy. This is not morally right but it is true; and many studies have testified to it.
It makes you feel better when you bump to an old friend
Isn’t it nice to bump to an old friend from high school looking chiseled and fit? Isn’t it great to attend a reunion and become the center of talk because you have lost a lot of weight? Losing weight may be the reason why you started mountain biking, looking good is a bonus.
Mountain biking is fun
Fun can be defined in many ways. Being able to improve your endurance, breathe fresh air, challenge yourself, learn new skill, see new places, meet new people and stay in shape are some of those. Mountain biking allows you to enjoy them all at the same time.
The beach season
Can you still remember the last time you have taken your shirt off and put on a swimwear? Or, have you done it? Confidently? If you love the beach or planning to go to the beach this summer, wouldn’t it be nice if you can show off how good your body looks? Mountain biking, although it may not be able to give you those big muscles, will certainly keep those fats off and help achieve a trimmed body.
The opposite sex
For some strange reasons, human beings still posses some attitudes of animals even if we claim that we are the superior kind. We still have the idea that if we look good and look strong, we attract the opposite ***. But is it true. Good looking people get more attention; and you have to admit that you want to belong in this small, lucky group.
By: Ram Gunjal
About the Author:
It makes you feel good about yourself
You might have seen some changes in your body after just weeks of regular mountain biking. What more if you maintain it for several months?
When you ride, you burn lots of calories that should have turned into fat if you did not decide to get moving. Riding helps you keep in shape. And if you are in shape, you start to feel good about yourself, which can be reflected to the way you act, communicate and relate with others.
Also, you are often judged as a person through physical appearance. If you look good, many will think of you as trustworthy and smart. If you are fat, you may be labeled as dumb, lazy and untrustworthy. This is not morally right but it is true; and many studies have testified to it.
It makes you feel better when you bump to an old friend
Isn’t it nice to bump to an old friend from high school looking chiseled and fit? Isn’t it great to attend a reunion and become the center of talk because you have lost a lot of weight? Losing weight may be the reason why you started mountain biking, looking good is a bonus.
Mountain biking is fun
Fun can be defined in many ways. Being able to improve your endurance, breathe fresh air, challenge yourself, learn new skill, see new places, meet new people and stay in shape are some of those. Mountain biking allows you to enjoy them all at the same time.
The beach season
Can you still remember the last time you have taken your shirt off and put on a swimwear? Or, have you done it? Confidently? If you love the beach or planning to go to the beach this summer, wouldn’t it be nice if you can show off how good your body looks? Mountain biking, although it may not be able to give you those big muscles, will certainly keep those fats off and help achieve a trimmed body.
The opposite sex
For some strange reasons, human beings still posses some attitudes of animals even if we claim that we are the superior kind. We still have the idea that if we look good and look strong, we attract the opposite ***. But is it true. Good looking people get more attention; and you have to admit that you want to belong in this small, lucky group.
By: Ram Gunjal
About the Author:
Mountain Biking - Getting Started
Mountain Bike for the Bike With a Difference
A mountain bike is particularly designed for riding on uneven and bumpy areas. Most mountain bikes have fat knobby tires, which ensure extra traction and appropriate shock absorption. A full front and rear suspension is becoming more common in the recent models of bikes meant to run on mountainous surfaces.
Modern bikers are less fond of handlebars and extensions though some bicycles under this particular variety are provided with end bars on the handlebars. Wheels of mountain bikes range from 26 to 29 inches. The larger wheels have better rolling capabilities and helps in rotational weight thereby making slower acceleration aptly possible.
The Best Varieties Of Mountain Bicycles
Enduro Mountain Bikes
The weight of Enduros vary between 30 to 35 pounds. These bikes feature greater suspension travel, say about 150mm of front and rear travel. They have been perfectly designed so as to ride the rough terrains with ease and satisfaction on the part of the rider.
Downhill Mountain Bikes
These bikes provide 8 or more inches of suspension traveling. The bodies of these bikes weigh less, which make them more apt for racing. Downhill mountain bicycles have tough construction and as they have provisions like large, high gears, they are aptly suited for riding down out-and-out downhill trails and racecourses. Most downhill riding requires high-speed movement for which these bikes are provided with one chain ring, a large bush guard and a chain guide. In fact, Downhill Mountain biking is the most popular form of competition biking.
Dirt Jumping Bike
Dirt jumping bikes come in two types, Urban and Street Mountain bikes. These bikes are variable combinations of trial bikes like, BMX bike and freeride bike. This specific bike variety is extremely strong and possesses 0 to 4 inches of front suspension. They are mostly without any rear suspension along with fast-rolling, slick and semi-slick tires
Some other significant bike forms include Cross-Country Mountain Bikes, Freeride Mountain Bikes, Trials Mountain Bikes, Single-Speed Mountain Bikes and North Shore Mountain Bikes.
Mountain Bikes – Monarchs Of The Mountains
Depending on suspension, mountain bikes can be largely classified into four different varieties:
1. Soft Tail Bikes – These are bikes with negligible rear suspension. These bikes are made active by the flex of the frames rather than the pivots
2. Fully rigid bikes – Such bikes are provided with hardtail along with firm fork system
3. Bikes having dual or full suspension – These machines on road come with front suspension fork and rear suspension along with rear shock and linkage. Such mechanisms enable the rear wheel move smoothly on pivots
Hardtail Bikes – These bike varieties have frames without any rear suspension. More often, such bikes are provided with front suspension forks
The contemporary bikes for mountains are provided with stronger and lighter frame types in addition to pioneering form and design. The built of these bicycles give way to forceful riding over rocks, logs, wooden bridges and fabricated ramps.
Some of the most notable and advanced companies who have come forward to introduce the up-grading models of bikes include Manitou, Rock Shox and Fox together with other notable makers. When you ride a bike, you are likely to make mistakes and the fault may not always be yours. Accidents and disasters can happen due to equipment malfunctioning or a wrong judgment as far as the rider is concerned. To put an end to such absurdities a number of companies have appeared on the scene with protective gears also known as armors.
Such equipments have been designed in a way so as to keep you absolutely safe from physical damages. The most significant upper body protectors for expert riders include full-face helmets, spine protector and backpack hydration system. Before unleashing the beasts on the craggy lanes, the makers of mountain bikes have indeed kept in mind the present trends and demands.
By: Robert Sheehan
About the Author:
Modern bikers are less fond of handlebars and extensions though some bicycles under this particular variety are provided with end bars on the handlebars. Wheels of mountain bikes range from 26 to 29 inches. The larger wheels have better rolling capabilities and helps in rotational weight thereby making slower acceleration aptly possible.
The Best Varieties Of Mountain Bicycles
Enduro Mountain Bikes
The weight of Enduros vary between 30 to 35 pounds. These bikes feature greater suspension travel, say about 150mm of front and rear travel. They have been perfectly designed so as to ride the rough terrains with ease and satisfaction on the part of the rider.
Downhill Mountain Bikes
These bikes provide 8 or more inches of suspension traveling. The bodies of these bikes weigh less, which make them more apt for racing. Downhill mountain bicycles have tough construction and as they have provisions like large, high gears, they are aptly suited for riding down out-and-out downhill trails and racecourses. Most downhill riding requires high-speed movement for which these bikes are provided with one chain ring, a large bush guard and a chain guide. In fact, Downhill Mountain biking is the most popular form of competition biking.
Dirt Jumping Bike
Dirt jumping bikes come in two types, Urban and Street Mountain bikes. These bikes are variable combinations of trial bikes like, BMX bike and freeride bike. This specific bike variety is extremely strong and possesses 0 to 4 inches of front suspension. They are mostly without any rear suspension along with fast-rolling, slick and semi-slick tires
Some other significant bike forms include Cross-Country Mountain Bikes, Freeride Mountain Bikes, Trials Mountain Bikes, Single-Speed Mountain Bikes and North Shore Mountain Bikes.
Mountain Bikes – Monarchs Of The Mountains
Depending on suspension, mountain bikes can be largely classified into four different varieties:
1. Soft Tail Bikes – These are bikes with negligible rear suspension. These bikes are made active by the flex of the frames rather than the pivots
2. Fully rigid bikes – Such bikes are provided with hardtail along with firm fork system
3. Bikes having dual or full suspension – These machines on road come with front suspension fork and rear suspension along with rear shock and linkage. Such mechanisms enable the rear wheel move smoothly on pivots
Hardtail Bikes – These bike varieties have frames without any rear suspension. More often, such bikes are provided with front suspension forks
The contemporary bikes for mountains are provided with stronger and lighter frame types in addition to pioneering form and design. The built of these bicycles give way to forceful riding over rocks, logs, wooden bridges and fabricated ramps.
Some of the most notable and advanced companies who have come forward to introduce the up-grading models of bikes include Manitou, Rock Shox and Fox together with other notable makers. When you ride a bike, you are likely to make mistakes and the fault may not always be yours. Accidents and disasters can happen due to equipment malfunctioning or a wrong judgment as far as the rider is concerned. To put an end to such absurdities a number of companies have appeared on the scene with protective gears also known as armors.
Such equipments have been designed in a way so as to keep you absolutely safe from physical damages. The most significant upper body protectors for expert riders include full-face helmets, spine protector and backpack hydration system. Before unleashing the beasts on the craggy lanes, the makers of mountain bikes have indeed kept in mind the present trends and demands.
By: Robert Sheehan
About the Author:
Robert Sheehan is a freelance writer and co-owner of
http://www.bicycles-are-us.com Visit Robert And
read more about bicycles at
http://www.bicycles-are-us.com/Mountain-Bikes.html
Trek Mountain Bikes - Riding a Tour
If you are in the market for a new bike - or even for your first bike, you definitely need to check out Trek Mountain Bikes. Trek Mountain Bikes have been around since the beginning of mountain bike time, and they aren’t going anywhere soon - except maybe to the next challenging trail!
First you should note that trek designs and manufactures mountain bikes, as well as street bikes, but the company does much more than that. As for bikes, they produce such high quality rides that even Lance Armstrong rides a Trek! What better endorsement could the company have than that?
Trek has a line of accessories that are highly suited to mountain bikers of all ages and skill levels. Clothing and shoes, under the Trek brand are available through the website. You can also purchase helmets and other safety equipment, lights, locks, saddles, racks, packs, trainers, bike maintenance gear, trailers, team wear, Trek souvenirs, and even computers for your bike! Trek even has their own specially designed water bottles, and they sell nutrition bars and packs as well!
Now that you know that Trek is all about bikes and mountain bikes - and fulfilling the needs and whims of bikers and mountain bikers, visit the site, and start building your Trek mountain bike. That’s right! You can build your very own virtual Trek Bike. You can start with just the frame, or select a complete bike. You can choose the color scheme, and many other features as well - when you have virtually designed the bike of your dreams, you can order it if you want to! If you can’t afford it just yet, however, you can save it, and go back and look at it over and over again.
Once you’ve purchased your Trek mountain bike, you may be interested in a Trek mountain bike tour. Trek also caters to mountain bikers with Trek Travel. Trek Travel puts together mountain biking tours. You can plan your Trek Travel vacation based on where you want to go, the type of trip you want to take, the skill level that you are at, the dates you want to travel, or by selecting a pre-planned event. These are often guided tours, and the guides are well trained not only to make sure that you have the best biking adventure possible, but also that you remain safe during your tour.
If you aren’t quite ready to buy the Trek mountain bike, you can still go on one of the many Trek mountain bike tours - and the bike will be provided for you! You get to choose between the OCLV Carbon Fiber Trek 5.2 Madone road bike and the full-suspension Trek Fuel EX9 mountain bike - and the bike is included in the price of your tour. If you’ve already purchased a Trek bike - or any other brand of bike - and you prefer to bring your own bike on your tour, bring it along! Trek simply requires that you pack it in a bike carrying case. You will, however, be expected to reimburse Trek for any spare parts you may use during the trip, and you will be responsible for the care and maintenance, as well as the assembly and disassembly, of your own bike.
If you aren’t in the best of shape, don’t let this keep you from the fun and adventure of a Trek mountain bikes tour! There are easy tours available, where you will average thirty miles per day, or less. The terrain will be flat, and you can ride at your own pace, and riding is optional each day. If you prefer something a bit more adventurous, there are moderate trips available as well.
With a moderate trip, you will ride 30 - 45 miles per day. There will be occasional challenges and climbs, and again, riding is optional. Avid tours cover 45 to 70 or more miles per day and are extremely challenging. Choose the package that is right for your abilities, as well as a tour that fits in with the other things you want to do on your Trek mountain bikes vacation!
By: Trevor Mulholland
About the Author:
Mt-bikes.com provides you with information on giant mountain bikes, specialized mountain bikes, trek mountain bikes, mountain bike holidays and mountain bike reviews. http://www.mt-bikes.com/