Mountain Biking Mountain Bike Tips That You Can Use

Mountain Bike Tips That You Can Use

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mountain bike tipsIf you are looking for some mountain bike tips, you may find some useful information below, especially if you are new to the sport.

Mountain biking, although fun, can also get quite tricky at times.  You have various obstacles that you will need to get over or around, with as little damage to yourself and your bicycle as possible.  These common obstacles are normally put on any mountain biking trail on purpose, to up the challenge for the bikers.

Mountain Bike Tips

One of the more common obstacles are fallen trees and logs.  You can try and ride over it instead of around it.  Just look for the smallest and flattest part of the log to cross.  On most mountain biking trails, logs will actually have a cut out especially for bikers.  You simply aim your front tire directly at the opening. This, of course, does take some skill.

If you need to go down a steep incline, make sure you survey the situation by getting off your mountain bike.  In fact, you should survey any unfamiliar trail feature off the bike.  Once you feel confident to ride, look well ahead of you and identify obstacles and steep parts before you actually get there.  If the trail is a popular one for mountain bikers, you will most likely be able to distinguish a line that is the most commonly traveled route through that particular section of the trail.

Other things that you could come across on trails that are specially built for mountain biking are rock piles, jumps, and other added obstacles.  These elements add a challenge to your ride but most of the manmade features will offer an alternative route around.  First time around, rather take the alternative route so that you can take a good look at the obstacle and the landing area before attempting it yourself.

Mountain Biking Rules and Regulations

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Besides the above mountain bike tips, here are some mountain biking rules that I picked up from the International Mountain Biking Association.  These rules are designed to minimize our impact on the environment, as well as promote friendly relationships with other trail users.  Rules help to create a safe environment for all and all mountain bikers should try and live by these rules from the International Mountain Biking Association.

The manner in which we ride our mountain bikes today will shape mountain bike trail access tomorrow, so do your part to preserve the sport’s access and image by trying your best to follow all the rules, as they are recognized worldwide as the standard code of conduct for all mountain bikers.

Mountain Biker Rule Number 1:

Make sure to follow the trail and avoid trespassing on private land.  If necessary, obtain your permits or other authorization as required before you ride.  Most federal and state wilderness areas are not open to cycling, so if unsure, rather ask.

Mountain Biker Rule Number 2:

Try to practice low-impact cycling.  In other words be sensitive to the dirt beneath you.  Learn to recognize different soil types and the construction of the trail.  The wetter the trail, the more prone it is to damage.  Stick to the trail and don’t create new trails and don’t cut switchbacks.

Mountain Biker Rule Number 3:

Learn to control your bicycle and obey all speed regulations.

Mountain Biker Rule Number 4:

Let other mountain bikers know that you are coming with a friendly greeting with your bell.  Show respect when passing other riders by slowing to a walking pace or stopping if necessary.  Watch out especially around corners and in blind spots.

Mountain Biker Rule Number 7:

Avoid startling the wildlife, as animals are easily startled and it could be dangerous for you, others and the animals.  Use special care when riding past horses and follow any directions from horse riders.  Make sure to leave all gates as you found them, whether open or closed or as marked.

Mountain Biker Rule Number 8:

Learn to know your equipment, your ability and adjust it to the area that you are riding in.  Be self-sufficient at all times and keep your equipment in good repair.  Prepare for weather changes and make sure to always have the right equipment so as not to burden others.

This also includes having a first aid kit.

If all mountain bikers follow the above rules, trails will stay open because cyclists will be setting a good example of environmentally sound and socially responsible off-road cycling.

If you have any more mountain bike tips to add, please add them below.


10 thoughts on “Mountain Bike Tips That You Can Use”

  1. Love your tips, especially the one about keeping your equipment and bike in good repair. Going for a mountain bike ride with a bike that has some faults already is asking for trouble!
    I’d also add “bike with a buddy” if you’re planning to go off the grid, doing some serious riding. Or, if you aren’t able to find a companion, bring along some form of communication that works in case you have an accident or need help – or advise someone of your route. Be safe, not sorry, and all that!

    1. Thanks for that Marlaine. You are right, never go mountain biking in a remote area on your own, because anything could happen.

  2. Interesting article on mountain biking, I have tossed the thought of purchasing a mountain bike myself the past few years for a fun activity or hobby.

    I would appreciate some information how to choose the proper mountain bike for myself, I become overwhelmed when I shop online for mountain bikes?

    1. The best way to do it is to go to a bike shop and test ride a few to see which one suits you best. Then if you do find the same model online cheaper you can order it. 

  3. Thank You

    Very thought out tips from an experienced mountain biker, all your tips are very good ones and some I would never have thought about before hitting the trails on my own.

    Jeff

  4. Thanks for sharing these mountain bike tips. You seem to have a lot of knowledge or can I say that you are and expert when it comes to mountain biking.
    It is good to get out and connect with nature by mountain biking but there are rules to follow and your website is filled with advice on how to go about mountain biking. thanks for sharing, this well-detailed post.

    1. Thanks for your kind words Norman, and of course adding your comment.  My main focus on this website is recumbent bikes, but it doesn’t hurt to add in other cycling related information from time to time.

  5. I’ve wanted to get into mountain biking for a while but had no idea where to start. this website has given me loads of useful tips to make me feel much more comfortable about getting into mountain biking.

    Actually reading these mountain bike tips, almost makes me nervous to try, but hopefully I can find a beginner friendly trail I can use out there somewhere.

    Thanks for posting and i will be sure to stay up to date with your future posts.

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