Mountain biking is amongst the popular sport activities that people indulge in and I am also one of them.  However, I have come across people who expressed their wishes to start mountain biking but haven’t been able to get around it.

So to help you all, I have compiled a beginner’s guide to mountain biking that covers all the basics of what, where, etc. to do in mountain biking.

What Kind of Bike to Buy?

Motorbike shops have bikes that range from £200 up to £2000 varying in size, shape, and style.  As such, it is natural for you to get confused while purchasing one. So firstly, you should research and decide upon the kind of trail you want to cover. Secondly, fix a budget else, you will end up buying something that you won’t even need. Here are some types of bikes available:

Hardtail

This bike has a front suspension and a rigid rear end. A hardtail handles uphill climbs much better and if your primary intention is to wander and explore with occasional racing through the fast section of a single track, then this is the bike for you.

Full suspension

For a full-fledged thrilling experience in trial centres, mountains, etc., a full-suspension bike is the right choice. Full suspension bikes are usually more expensive than hairtails. They handle downhill riding efficiently and are great with big terrains and fast descents.

26er/ 29er

Getting the right wheel size is very much important. Before, all bikes used to have 26-inch wheels. But the introduction of the 29er gave fast top-end speed to riders and a smoother ride over rough terrain. You should choose the wheel size that best suits your preferences. If you get a demo at bike shops, do take the opportunity and test bikes of different wheel sizes to get a better understanding.

Where to Ride?

There are 15 National Parks, 46 AONBs, and over 14,000 miles of cycling trails on the National Cycle Network where you can ride your bike as a beginner. There are many trial centres where you can practice- like the Cannock Chase, Grizedale, etc. in England, Fort William, Dalbeattie in Scotland, etc.

Equipment to Be Carried

Helmet

You need a helmet to safeguard your head from any rocks, trees, etc. that can come on your way. It will help you keep your head safe should any mishap take place.

Shorts

Wearing a comfortable pair of shorts with built-in padding will only make the experience better.

Gloves

A pair of gloves should be used while riding as they give you extra grip, keeps your hands warm, and protects them from any scratches, etc. that you might get from branches, falls, etc.

Water Bottle

Staying hydrated is a must and hence, carrying a water bottle is essential. There is usually a bottle cage attached to the bike where you can store it. For longer rides however, I would suggest carrying a hydration pack.

Inner Tubes

Carrying spare inner tubes helps save your time if you get a puncture. You can just change the tubes and get to a repair shop later.

Pump

Carrying a pump is necessary because you never know when your bike might face a setback.

Apart from these, a first aid kit, a GPS, some emergency lights, and anything that looks important to you can be carried.

Trail Route Grading

Trails have different routes for different levels and abilities and they are colour-graded accordingly. Green trails are for beginners and families, blue trails come next and include some singletrack trails and steeper hills. Red trials are fast-flowing single-track routes and are for advanced bikers. Last are the black trails that have steep descents and large jumps and drop-offs. These trials should be traversed by skilled bikers only.