Mountain biking is a sport for all levels of riders, from beginners to experts. With plenty of trails available for riders across the country, there are many places where you can find the perfect mountain bike trail. However, mountain biking can also be a physically challenging sport, especially when you’re a beginner mountaineer biker and your muscles aren’t conditioned to riding a bike.
As you learn the craft and explore advanced trails, you’ll come face to face with challenging features that you can’t fathom ever being able to conquer. Rough terrain, wooden ramps, rock drops, punchy climbs and many more obstacles will meet your super fun riding experience. But with the right information and preparation, anyone can enjoy this exciting outdoor activity.
Is Mountain Biking Hard for Beginners
Mountain biking can be hard depending on the trail and how experienced you are. Some trails are easier and perfect for beginners. Others are more challenging and meant for experienced, better riders.
A mountain bike trail ride is not an easy ride. It requires a lot of technique and practice. In some places, there are no trails, meaning you’ll have to use the road if you want access to one. Mountains can also be dangerous if you don’t know what’s happening around you or how to handle certain situations.
If you are a beginner planning to start mountain biking, it is important to take it easy and not try to ride trails that are too difficult. You need to know the basics of every ride, have the right gear, and master the skills of riding on all mountain trails.
Essential Safety Tips for Mountain Biking Beginners
Before embarking on a mountain bike trail riding, you must have mastered basic riding skills and adapted to the terrain. You’ll need to be comfortable on a bike and have a good balance. That means controlling your bike through the local trails, which may include obstacles and turns to uphill and downhill biking.
Here are the essential tips that will help keep you safe while mountain biking!
1. Get the Right Gear
Always dress for the occasion when going out for a mountain bike ride. Wear comfortable clothes that won’t get in the way while riding. Ensure the clothes are brightly colored so other riders and vehicles can see you. Second, wear a helmet to protect your head in case of a fall. You can easily get these items in your local bike shop nearby.
2. Get Familiar with Your Bike.
Before hitting the trails, take some time to get to know your bike and how it works. This includes spending time learning to change the rear tire or other bike features. It could make a huge difference while on the trail because you don’t want to remain stranded in the middle of nowhere with a flat tire.
3. Always Use Your Rear Brake
When mountain biking, it’s important to remember always to use your rear brake. The front brake is much more powerful, and if you use it improperly, you could end up overbalancing and crashing.
Your rear brake is there to help you slow down and control your descent. It’s not as powerful as the front brake, but it’s more than enough to help you stay safe while mountain biking. Use it every time you ride, and you’ll be much more likely to have a safe and enjoyable experience.
4. Get a Full Suspension Bike
Mountain biking can be a thrilling experience, but only if you’re prepared for it. Remember that you want your ride to be as comfortable as possible. That means you need proper safety gear and the right bike that can absorb pressure in bumpy terrain.
Full-suspension bikes are designed to absorb bumps and keep you safe as you ride. Most of these jarring bumps would otherwise be sent to your body and buck you off your bike. A full-suspension bike will keep you comfortable, reducing fatigue and allowing you to ride faster.
It’s also the best bike to pedal uphill through rock gardens and on more technical trails. You can easily jump on one and ride through any rock garden up and over roots and the drops without difficulty.
5. Maintain the Right Tire Pressure
Maintaining the proper tire pressure is key to a safe mountain biking experience. If your tires are too inflated, you’ll have less control over your bike, and if they’re too deflated, you could end up with a nasty spill.
Most bike shops can help you find the right tire pressure for your bike and riding style. Always check tire pressure before long rides and adjust it according to your preference.
6. Watch Out for Trail Obstacles
Mountain biking is a fantastic way to get outdoors and explore nature. However, it’s important to know the potential hazards on the trail. Obstructions like rocks, roots, and tree branches can be hard to see, and if you’re not paying attention, they can cause you to crash.
Always remain alert and keep your eyes on the trail ahead to avoid these obstacles. If you see something in the way, slow down and navigate around it safely. And if you’re unsure whether you can safely ride over an obstacle, it’s always better to dismount and walk your bike around it.
7. Learn How to Absorb Bumps
To stay safe while mountain biking, you must know how to handle bumps and control your bike if you hit a pothole or any other obstacle. You also want to be able to jump off your bike quickly if necessary.
Practicing in an empty bike park is the best way to learn how to handle bumps. Most bike parks have obstacles you can practice riding over at your own pace. As you become a better rider, you can increase your speed.
You should also practice jumping off your bike quickly during the first ride. This can be helpful if you hit a large bump and need to get off your bike quickly. To practice this, find a spot to ride fast and jump off your bike at the last second.
Different Types of Mountain Biking and their Dangers
Mountain biking can be classified into two categories: Cross Country (XC), Downhill (DH). Cross Country is the most popular type of mountain biking, and it involves riding on trails that are typically shorter and more technical than those found in other disciplines.
Downhill mountain biking, mostly referred to as enduro riding, is about speed. Most enduro riders prefer downhill bikes that can tackle steep and gnarly terrain as they race to the finish line for awards and prizes.
Both types of mountain biking have their share of dangers, especially for novice riders with little or no experience. There are a lot of risks involved, and you could easily get hurt if you’re not careful. Some of the dangers of mountain biking you should look out for include the following:
1. Wiping Out
When you wipe out, you can hit your head on a rock, tree, or even the ground. This may cause serious injuries or even death.
2. Getting Lost
If you’re unfamiliar with the trail, it’s easy to get lost. And if you’re in a remote area, it can be hard to get help if you need it.
3. Poor Weather
Weather is a huge factor in mountain biking. Sometimes you may get caught in a storm while on a trail. Lightning strikes are also a common danger to mountain bikers.
4. Animal Attacks
If you’re riding in an area with wildlife, you could be attacked by an animal. This is especially true if you’re riding in bear country.
FAQs
Here are the commonly asked questions about whether mountain biking is a difficult sport.
1. Are the Mountain Bikes Heavy
Mountain bikes are usually heavier than road bikes but not as heavy as downhill or cross-country mountain bikes. Overall, the bike’s weight will depend on the type of mountain bike you’re buying.
2. Is Mountain Biking Safe?
Yes. Mountain biking is safer than most sports, including car racing. It’s also safer than skateboarding because riders can control their speed better when going downhill.
3. What Are the Benefits of Mountain Biking?
There are many benefits to mountain biking. First, it’s a fun and engaging activity that can be done alone or with friends. Secondly, the scenery is beautiful, and you’ll learn about the surrounding environment as you ride through it.
Finally, if you’re into fitness or want an alternative way to get exercise in your free time, then mountain biking might be right up your alley!
Final Thoughts
Although mountain biking isn’t easy, it can be fun and rewarding. If you are careful and follow the road rules, you should have no problems riding your bike on either dirty singletrack trails or paved trails. If you want to try out this sport, we recommend finding an area with lots of trails for practice and getting used to the terrain before venturing into unfamiliar territory. Overall, mountain biking isn’t for everyone—it takes dedication and determination—but if you’re up to the task, go ahead and try it!