Mountain Biking Travel Guide
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adapted bikes, designed for rough terrain. It is often described as an extreme sport. Well for some it is, but for many it is also an accessible, yet exciting hobby, which can lead to a wide range of two-wheeled adventures in the great outdoors.
The mountain bike as we know it took shape in the 1970s, when modified chunky bikes, or “klunkers”, were ridden to freewheel down mountain tracks in the US. The need for more robust machines led to the development and manufacture of the first purpose-built mountain bikes in the 1980s. These incorporated wider frames and tyres, and multiple gears and were soon mass-produced. Evolving technology meant that by the 1990s mountain bikes were high-performance machines, and mountainbiking had evolved into a mainstream hobby and professional sport.
Today, mountainbiking is enjoyed by millions of people across the globe. Even though there are no accurate or up-to-date statistics for current use, research from The Travel Industry Association of America and National Bicycle Dealers Association has indicated that it is in the top five most popular adventure sports activities in the US, and that mountain bikes account for nearly a third of all cycle purchases.
The IMBA-UK, the UK arm of the International Mountain Bike Association, estimates that around 11 million UK adults currently own a mountain bike, generating some 80 million off-road rides per year.
Mountainbiking isn't called an adventure sport for nothing, and although you don’t need to be an adrenalin nut to take part and enjoy it, ask yourself: Are you:
Open to a physical challenge? “Off-roading” is usually invigorating and often thrilling, but can be hard going depending on the level of riding you want to do.
A lover of the great outdoors? Mountainbiking offers the chance to enjoy miles of fantastic scenery but is probably also best suited to those who aren’t afraid of a little mud and harsh weather.
Well, why not feel the fear and do it anyway! Skidding down muddy tracks at speed isn’t everyone’s cup of tea but the buzz and sense of freedom is unbeatable.
Get Started
Before you hit the trails, it’s important to consider some basic first steps. Mountainbiking is different to cycling on the road, so it’s important to get to know your bike and feel comfortable controlling it.
To help build your confidence or improve existing skills, you can have mountainbiking lessons or private tuition from a basic level upwards. There are also short courses and adventure holidays. For those who really want to develop their proficiency, it’s possible to get certifications as a National Bike Leader and a Technical Bike Leader. Both qualifications allow you to lead off-road expeditions.
Style
The sport is broadly split into three disciplines. First, there's Cross-country(or “XC”). This is cycling up and down hills, through woodlands, farm lanes and bridleways. XC riding is probably the path of least resistance, so good for beginners.
Then there's freestyle, which involves elaborate manoeuvres over purpose-built jumps and obstacles – quite often in a designated area or field. Obviously suited to the more experienced rider and one prepared to test their skills, nerve, and knees to the max!
And for speed freaks, there's downhill riding. This is when bikers use gravity to hurtle down hillsides, through forests, and along trails littered with obstacles! It’s very fast, thrilling and comes with risks, but if you’re after a serious rush, then this is for you!
Finally, if you’re going to be down with the mountainbiking fraternity, it’s a good idea to be familiar with some of the lingo.
Lingo
“MTB” and “ATB” refer to bikes (Mountain Bike and All Terrain Bike). “Trails” have been mentioned before and refer to the routes you ride on.
If you catch “air” it means both tyres are off the ground.
If you’re unlucky, this may swiftly be followed by a “bail”, where you have to jump off the bike to avoid a crash!
Whatever your style, be sure to wear your “brain bucket” at all times (helmet) and practice stunts regularly so you can impress the “betty’s” (female mountain bikers)!
Enjoy!
Govern
International Mountain Biking Association (UK)
http://www.imba.org.uk/
North Wales Mountain Biking Association
http://www.nwmba.org.uk/index.html
Highland Mountain Biking Association
http://www.himba.org.uk/
British Cycling Association (MBT section)
http://new.britishcycling.org.uk/mtb/article/mtb20090616-MTB-Latest-News
International Mountain Biking Association
http://www.imba.com/
Safety
To fully enjoy mountainbiking safely, whether as a serious sport or a hobby, it is vital to use the right equipment and adhere to some fundamental rules.
First things first, obviously you need a bike! Mountain bikes are different to road or racing bicycles in many ways. They feature: a smaller and stronger frame, wider tyres, a lower range of gears, and a wider flat handlebar plus some also incorporate a type of suspension, for either the front or both wheels.
Mountain bikes cost a fair bit of cash. Ranging from £200 for entry-level bikes to upwards of £7,000! There is a lot of information on the wide range of features, so take your time to look around and talk to people, also check out online forums and specialists guides.
The most important piece of safety equipment is of course a helmet. It can save your life, so don’t even consider riding without one! Suitable clothing is essential too. This may include cycling shorts, gloves, glasses and appropriate footwear. And don’t forget a waterproof jacket and some layers to keep you warm.
There are some basic rules of mountainbiking that impact your safety and those around you. Most are common sense, such as:
Plan ahead
Plan your route in advance, and check weather and ground conditions.
Ensure you have appropriate hydration, first aid, and repair gear to hand.
Tell someone where you’re going if riding alone.
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