Essential things to know about mountain biking

Every bicyclist similarly has the same accessories, requirements, pedals, handlebars. But that is about where the similarities end. Even the hard roadies can observe themselves intimated by the knobby tires and technical terrain of mountain biking. A mountain biker rides over rocks, cross streams and overall different terrain. It is fun and exciting, and even terrifying all at the same time. If you want to ride like the wind and fast, you have to start learning with the basics. Whether you ride for fitness or enjoy the outdoors, having bike handling skills will make it a much better experience. Here are essential things to know about mountain biking.

Know your bike

When choosing a gear bicycle, don’t look for your roadie’s exact size and features because there are different types of bike for every kind of ride. The cockpit is much shorter reach, so you sit closer to the bars and much upright than on a road bike. MTB includes a shorter stem and wider handlebars for good handling.

Body position

The surfaces of a mountain bikes trail include rocks, roots, mud and sand. For beginners, it will be unnerving due to the variable terrain and obstacles. Before riding bike or two-wheeler, body balance is very important for handling the bike.

There are two primary body positions: neutral and ready position.

Neutral position

When you are riding non-technical sections, you want to be in a neutral position on the mountain bike. The neutral position includes:

The weight of the pedal should be even
Slight bend in the knees and elbows
Index fingers on the brake levers
Eyes looking forward ahead

Ready position

Sometimes it is called the attack position. It gets you mentally and physically prepared to take on technical sections of the trail. The ready position includes:

The weight of the pedal should be even
Deep bend in the knees and elbows
Front end off the seat and hips shifted back
The back should be flat and parallel to the surface
Index fingers on the brake levers

Braking

The power of braking comes from your rear brake. Your brake power should be consistent and controlled. Avoid sudden brakes and quick squeezes to prevent skidding. Grabbing a handful of the rear brake will send you over the bars. Move back, drop your heels down and keep a slight bend in your knees and elbows while braking. While turning your mountain bike, use brake levers and then let your momentum carry you through. Beginners slow down their bikes when approaching obstacles.

Shifting

Most of the boys cycles involve many incredible things. It is good to know how to shift your gears correctly. Beginners should practise gear shifting frequently, which builds your muscle so you can intuitively shift gears as needed. Keep a steady cycling cadence for maximum power, and always shift gears when you hit the steep terrain.

Final thoughts

Know the things before going for a ride on mountain bikes. Always pack more food and water while riding mountain bikes. Someone can’t come to pick you up if something happens wrong, so take the required equipment and tools like a spare tube, pump, and brake tools along with you. Have a safe ride with a peaceful mind.