Mountain biking is a great way to spend time outdoors and get some exercise at the same time. It’s a fantastic solo activity but a blast to do with friends as well. It might seem a little intimidating to start, but all you really need is a bike, a few accessories, and an idea of where you want to go.

Mountain Bikes Vs. Road Bikes

Mountain bikes differ from road bikes in a few important ways. They have fatter and more rugged and stable tires made for the rough outdoor terrain. Additionally, most have a more robust suspension system to help absorb the shocks of off-road riding. Unlike a road bike, mountain bikes also encourage a more upright riding position–which is perfect for enjoying the view!

Types of Mountain Bikes

There are three main types of mountain bikes to choose from. The best option will depend on how and where you want to ride.
– Trail: Generally the best choice for beginners and casual riders, trail bikes have good all-around features and are made for both climbs and descents.
– Cross-country: Those looking to ride fast over long distances will want a cross-country mountain bike. They feature lightweight frames and are built for efficiency.
– All-mountain/enduro: These bikes are an upgrade on the basic trail bike for serious riders. They have light frames for technical riding and perform just as well on uphill rides as on steep descents.

Mountain Bike Suspension Systems

When looking for a mountain bike, pay particular attention to the type of suspension system it comes with.
– Rigid: Rigid bikes don’t feature any suspension at all, but the trade-off is that they are the cheapest and easiest to maintain.
– Hardtail: Hardtail bikes only come with suspension in the front, hence the name. They are less expensive and easier to maintain than full-suspension bikes and often preferred by cross-country riders.
– Full suspension: Full-suspension bikes offer the most comfortable ride. The front fork and rear shocks absorb the bumps of the trail and help increase traction as well. These bikes are the priciest, but many consider them worth it.

Mountain Bike Trail Types

Once you’ve got a bike picked out, it’s time to choose a trail. Trails are typically marked by skill level and come in three main types.
– Singletrack: Only about a shoulder-length wide, singletrack trails are the most common and provide great access to the terrain.
– Doubletrack: Double or more than the width of singletrack, doubletrack trails allow two bikes to ride side-by-side. They are typically gentler and less technical.
– Terrain parks: Mountain bike terrain parks include features like jumps, halfpipes, and bridges where you can show off your tricks.

Essential Mountain Biking Gear

To get into mountain biking, you need the right gear. Before hitting the trail, make sure you get outfitted.
– Helmet: A specialized mountain bike helmet is a must-have, as it offers great venting and more extensive protection.
– Shoes: Your riding shoes should have a good grip, tough toes, and water-repellent qualities.
– Hydration pack: Hydration packs hold plenty of water and come with extra room for other accessories.
– Bike repair kit: Sometimes, you might need to do a quick repair on the trail. A good repair kit will save you a lot of hassle.

There’s nothing quite like mastering a grueling uphill climb or zooming freely down a trail after. Get geared up and get started with mountain biking today!