Ten Ways To Get The Most Out Of Mountain Bikes

With mountain bikes currently enjoying a huge surge in popularity, many people are approaching the sport for the first time - but even if you're used to riding road bikes, it can be difficult to know what to look for and what to do when you're planning to ride in a new environment. Here are ten ways to get the most out of your mountain bike:

1. Take the time to select the bike that is right for you and one that fits you properly rather than gravitating towards the first impressive looking mountain bike you see. To check the fit and comfort take the bike on a test ride.

2. You may think that it doesn't make much sense to spend a lot of money on a mountain bike without knowing first how much you will like riding it. While it's a fact that the pricey mountain bikes offer advantages to experienced riders, it's still worth spending your money on a good bike and avoid costly repairs in the future. You should figure on spending between six and eight hundred dollars on your first mountain bike.

3. Select the correct wheels. Since the wheels will obviously take most of the abuse and wear, make sure you choose the right tires based on the type of terrain and trails you plan to ride on and how much off road riding you think you will be doing.

4. Ease off on the brakes. To ride a mountain bike effectively you need to learn how to cruise. It may not feel that way, but in general, the faster you're going the more stable you are. Let your bike take the strain on long downhill slopes and use that momentum for the next rise.

5. Learn about the local trails. There isn't much point in buying a mountain bike and not knowing where and how to ride it. Mountain bike clubs are sprouting up all over the world and they can recommend the best trails for you to ride on in your locale.

6. Play safe. If you're riding your mountain bike hard, it's inevitable that you'll fall sooner or later. Investing in a good helmet can make all the difference. Some mountain bike riders also like to wear protective pads - and don't forget to wear sunscreen when biking in hot weather.

7. Look after your bike. Cleaning and storing your mountain bike correctly can make it perform better and last much longer. You will save money on repairs by investing some time and effort.

8. Build up slowly. When you first get a mountain bike you may feel tempted to spend all day riding it. However, riding off-road can strain your muscles in unexpected ways. Pace yourself as you get used to the experience - you don't want to strain a muscle and end up being unable to ride at all for weeks.

9. Develop a taste for adventure. You can go to places you may never have thought of going before on your mountain bike. You can find advice on the wide range of new riding experiences now open to you from bike shops, clubs and magazines.

10. Have fun! While regular run of the mill bikes may simply be a form of transportation, mountain bikes are all about having a lot of fun.

Sources:
http://www.dirtworld.com/