Mountain biking
Mountain biking is the sport of riding bicycles off-road. Often this is done over rough terrain. Mountain biking uses specially designed mountain bikes. Mountain bikes are similar to other bikes, but have features designed to make them stronger and hold up in rough terrain.[1]
Mountain biking can generally be broken down into multiple categories. These include cross country, trail riding, all mountain (also referred to as "Enduro"), downhill, freeride and dirt jumping. However, the majority of mountain biking falls into the categories of trail and cross country riding styles.
This individual sport requires the rider to have endurance, core strength and balance. The rider also needs bike handling skills, and self-reliance. Advanced riders take on steep technical descents and high incline climbs. Mountain biking can be performed almost anywhere from a back yard to a gravel road, but the majority of mountain bikers ride off-road trails. Using the bike's brakes must be done carefully on a mountain bike, especially when going downhill.[2] In order to work on rough terrain, mountain bikes have several gears from which to choose.[3] It is recommended to use safety gear such as helmet, gloves, elbow and knee pads to avoid injuries in rough terrain.[4] Mountain biking should be done so as to enjoy the ride but not damage the environment.[5]
Mountain Biking Media
US 25th Infantry Bicycle Corps, 1897
A cross-country mountain biker climbs on an unpaved track
A mountain bike skills track in Wales
Mountain bike touring in high Alps
Mountain biker gets air in Mount Hood National Forest.
Mountain biking the Slickrock Trail near Moab, Utah; established in 1969 for motorcycling
Typical modern hardtail mountain bike with telescopic fork. In this case my 2010 Specialized Rockhopper.
A dual suspension or full suspension mountain bike, 'all-mountain' mountain bike
Typical more stout all-mountain bike on rough terrain
Mountain bikers in the Port Hills, New Zealand, wearing a variety of protective gear
References
- ↑ David Fieder. "What is a Mountain Bike?". About, Inc. Archived from the original on 11 August 2016. Retrieved 22 June 2016.
- ↑ Scott Adams. "The Basics: Mountain Bike Skills You Need to Know". Active Network, LLC. Retrieved 22 June 2016.
- ↑ Dennis Coello. "Beginner's Guide to Gears on Your Mountain Bike". Active Network, LLC. Retrieved 22 June 2016.
- ↑ "Mountain Bike Knee Pads". Test Facts. Retrieved 12 September 2017.
- ↑ "Quick Tips For Responsible Mountain Biking". Tread Lightly! Inc. Retrieved 22 June 2016.[dead link]