Many people are looking to alternative means of getting around due to the high cost of fuel. Biking has taken off. While some folks ride just around town others are heading out to the country. Mountain biking is fast becoming a popular sport for new comers. So what does a beginner need to know and what supplies do they need?
Don't rush buying that first bike. Take some time to learn about mountain bikes. Try to avoid going to a mass market store. A bike shop will have better quality for similar pricing. They should also be able to guide you on what you need when you explain what you want.
When you go to get that bike you need to have thought about what type of riding you'll be doing. Different places require different types of mountain bikes. You have to think of the terrain you are thinking of riding. Will you be riding on smooth surfaces? Maybe you want to go cross county trail riding. Will you want speed or lift?
Another thing to consider before you go shopping is if you want a bike with suspension. They tend to cost a little bit more but for most people it's worth it. So how much do you need? At 4.5 inches of suspension travel, the cross country mountain bike is on the bottom of the scale. That is usually enough for a beginner.
Bottom line is that a decent mountain bike is lightweight, responsive and easy to handle on challenging trails. Also keep size in mind. Small frames are easier to handle while larger frames are more stable for long road trips. The frame's upper bar should be at least 10 cms (4") lower than your body to be comfortable on landings.
There is no shortage of mountain bike accessories and apparel. You should look into what things you will actually need before hitting the store. Don't let a sales person talk you into a bunch of expensive things that you don't really need or that you can make due with a lesser priced item.
The very first thing you need to get is a helmet. This is your most important purchase. This could just save your life. The makers of bike helmets design them to be both comfortable and stylish. They even make accessories for them. There is rain gear for your helmet.
Another safety purchase is a set of mountain biking gloves. When you fall, and you will fall, you will catch yourself with your hands. They will need to be protected from anything hard or sharp on the ground. Most beginning rides hold the handles tight so you will want the comfort of having full finger gloves to protect your hands.
You are going to want glasses. It is up to you if you get clear lenses or sun glasses. This is yet another safety precaution. There is tons of bugs, dirt, garbage and wind that can fly into your eyes. Some helmets come with visors that help reduce the danger too.
There are a few other accessories and apparel you might want to look into. Your shoes should fit well with your pedals and offer comfort. Bike shorts may save some pain on your back side. Another safety accessory is a hydration system. A backpack unit is great. And you are going to need a good bike repair and tool kit.
A beginner can quickly learn the trails and learn to enjoy the ride. Keep safety, cost, and durability in mind when choosing your equipment.
Summer is quickly approaching. Parents, you may be wondering what to do with your children. One good activity for kids, and adults, is mountain biking. Mountain bikes can handle a lot of terrain. Take them with you when you go on vacation. A trip to the beach is more fun with mountain bikes. There's no need to plan long activities when you have a mountain bikes. With mountain bikes adventures are just a few peddles away.
As the summer months approach, you may be worried about how to stay in shape. Furthermore, the obesity epidemic is on the rise. Americans are one of the fattest people in the world. Mountain bikes can help combat this epidemic. Riding a mountain bike is a good source of exercise. At a moderate pace, 500 calories can be burned from one hour of mountain biking. More calories can be burned from a faster speed and/or riding your mountain bike for more hours. Mountain biking is also a good form of exercising for children. Riding mountain bikes also encourages children to go outdoors. Giving them fresh air and allowing them to socialize with other children. In these modern times, children rarely get to go outside and be exposed to nature. Using mountain bikes to expose them to nature will show them how important nature is and why people should go green.
Do you want a green mode of transportation? Mountain bikes are an excellent mode of transportation that doesn't pollute the environment. Tired of the raising gas prices? Mountain bikes do not need gas. With a few simple mountain bike accessories, all your transportation needs are met. With a simple basket, a mountain bike can hold various personal and professional items. While mountain bikes need air for their tires, a tire pump is an easy solution that is cheap. Why spend money on a car? A mountain bike is a green and cheaper mode of transportation. Besides, to own most cars you need good credit. Good credit is hard to maintain in these hard economic times. Buying a mountain bikes doesn't require a credit check and good credit. Bikes have their own lane. Using a mountain bike as your mode of transportation will help to count down on traffic. Never be late again. By using a mountain bike time will be cut from your commute. Allowing you time for important things. Mountain bikes are very versatile. Mountain bikes can be used in many different types of settings. With a mountain bike, the same mode of transportation can be used to commute, go green, exercise, and spend time with family and friends.
With summer quickly approaching, mountain bikes may seem like a quick way to entertain your children. That is partially true, but mountain bikes offer a lot more. Mountain bikes are good for adults, commuting, going green, and are very cost efficient. Don't battle with your weight this summer. Wear the outfits, and swimsuits, you want. Using a mountain bike can help you reach your ideal summer size. |
