Stay Away from Danger
when Mountain Biking: An Idiot's Guide
The basic skill needed to ride a road bike maybe the same
with mountain bike. The main difference however is the terrain.
While it is easier to manage on smooth paved road, off-road is
entirely a different story. Mountain biking requires better
skill and more conscious riding. Here are some of the things
you should do to stay safe while riding:
Wear Proper Gear - Keeping your butt on the
seat, your feet on the pedals, and your hands on the handlebar
is not always possible. You may crash and may suffer minor cuts
and bruises along the way. To minimize injury, you have to wear
the proper gears. Wear the right helmet whenever you go for a
ride. Not because it is prohibited to ride without a helmet,
but because it can save your head from possible injury if you
crash. Wear gloves (full or cut offs, it is your choice to
make) as it protect your hand from falls, cuts and
blisters.
Ride within Your Abilities – Admit it,
there are better riders than you and there is no shame in
walking and carrying your bike on some sections of the trail if
you don't feel comfortable riding. You don't have to prove
anything. It is better to be safe than risking your life and
limb on a trail that you know you can't ride. It is also
equally important to know your physical fitness. Pushing
yourself beyond your physical capacity may get your into
trouble. Do not ride on a long and steep trail of you don't
have the physical capability.
Use the Right Bike – Not all mountain bikes
are the same. Some are better for certain terrain and weather
conditions than others. Make sure that your bike is designed
for that particular trail.
Caution on Riding Downhill and Blind Curves -
Take extra caution when riding downhill and on blind curves.
Mountain biking is almost similar with driving a car. The only
thing that sets them apart is that when you ride your bike you
will likely get a wipe out if you lose control when riding
downhill and on blind curves – you will likely get a facial
encounter with the rock, sand and mud which can be nasty. Be
careful. Slow down. Always be in control.
Always Have a Crash Plan – Any trail can be
a venue for disaster so aside from keeping control with your
bike, you need to plan your crash. Have a mental simulation on
the possible scenario and the things you should do to protect
yourself if in case you lose control. Never underestimate any
type of trail. Sometimes, what looks so easy to ride is
actually deadly to crash.
Know the Trail – Any mountain biker will
agree that knowledge of the trail is better than years of
experience. Do not push your limits on an unfamiliar trail. Get
to know it first. And even then, you have to take the outmost
care.
Keep Your Speed in Check – The faster you
get, the least time you have to react on unforeseen changes in
the trail's condition. Sharp bends, a ditch or muddy holes are
venues for crashes and can only be dealt properly with the
right speed.
Finally, Keep Your Attitude In Check –
Having a good bike and wearing a complete gear do not equate to
total safety. Do not be too proud of yourself. Do not be
overconfident. Stay focus at all times.
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