Mountain biking Philippines is swiftly gaining momentum. And
speaking of momentum, more and more locals are trying and then, loving the
sport. Why not? Mountain biking is not only good for the environment, but also
for one’s overall health. Perhaps, by now, you’ve already learned about the
types of mountain bikes and the equipments you need. What you will read here
are practical tips in making your ride as awesome as possible.
1 Get loose
On every mountain trail, there will be rough, tight and edgy
corners. Be prepared to carve around them; it is better to experience and get
the hang of these than to avoid them. There will be obstacles such as rocks and
roots. Ride over them as you stand on the pedals. Lift your butt above a little
while absorbing impacts by bending slightly. While you go over them, keep your
elbows and knees bent.
2 Trust in momentum
Momentum can make everything stress-free when riding a
mountain bike. The rocks will seem smaller and climbs, shorter. Before you
attempt a challenging mood, maintain a steady pace before speeding up. Slowing
down will only affect the momentum negatively.
3 Move
When climbing a steep slope, obtain extra balance. Do this
by dropping your elbows toward the hips then, lowering your chin above the
handlebar. Upon descending, obtain stability. Do this by leveling your pedals
and moving your elbows out before sliding your butt behind the saddle.
4 Shift
When faced with elevations, you may simply zoom into the
profiles. But be prepared particularly for rapid channels. Keep your fingers
closer to the shifters while changing gears before the spikes and dips along
the trail.
5 Look up
When riding, always try to look 20 feet up the terrain if
possible. Through this, you may determine and choose the best paths around
although you can try choosing paths with minimal hazards. Don’t hesitate to
shift, if needed. Before tackling any obstacle ahead that your line of vision
allows you to see, make sure that your body is in the right position.
6 Support yourself
As you leave necessities and amenities behind, bring your
water, food and tool. Carry with you a spare tube and pump as well.
What you will need
Aside from a trail-ready bike that gives
you an overall control with its durable features and components, you will also
need a
front suspension fork. This will help in rolling over bumps, among
other obstacles. Make sure that the fork is specifically designed for mountain
biking and in optimal working condition.
Another important component is a disc brake. Your
choices are mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes. Steer clear of using V brakes
because disc brakes tend to be more powerful and safer.
There will be no need for trendy wheel sizes. The most
popular diameters for mountain bike wheels are 26, 27.5 and 29 inches. While
all of them have benefits, they will perform much better if the bike fits the
rider (yes, that’s you).
For beginners like you, clipless pedals must be avoided.
Instead, use flat platform pedals since using them is easier should
you lose control or misjudge an obstacle. Nonetheless, if you are more
comfortable clipping in, choose the double-sided ones.
Other practicalities
If your first attempt on an obstacle is not successful, you
may go back and try again. However, limit the attempts into three tries.
Perhaps, it is not for your skill and experience level yet. Skip tough
sections, if you must. Walking through them is much easier than suffering
needlessly. Finally, take a break. A 30-minute ride can leave you exhausted and
out of breath. Stop for a moment and savor the scenery. Eat a snack. Reset.
All in all, don’t be hard on yourself. Remind yourself that
you are a beginner, and mountain biking is also a learning process. Not all
rides will be successful, but at least, learn a thing or two from the
experience. Hope the above tips will help you. Good luck!
Source: Bicycling.com
Image credit: BeyondOutdoorAdventures.com
