I know sometimes you may want to make cycling an outdoor adventure. In fact, if you want to experience something like “adventure”, you can try mountain cycling. That’s really amazing; however, it’s not really like what you expected.
That’s why I told you to forget what you think you know about mountain biking. As an avid cyclist and spin fanatic, my first time mountain biking was completely different than what I expected. Most importantly, it’s nothing like road cycling: you’re more likely to fall, and everything differs. If you love the outdoors, hiking, or cycling, mountain biking may be your new favorite pastime. These beginner tips will have you descending with ease.
Firstly, you must know that the size is really the thing that matters a lot. Much like a road or spin bike, you want to make sure your mountain bike is the right size for your height and inseam length. In general, the seat should be set at a height that allows your knee to be bent ever so slightly when the pedal is in its lowest position. The handlebars should be positioned slightly lower than your seat so that your back is at a 45-degree angle.
Secondly, you should remember that safety should be first. A helmet is a must. More so than road cycling, you’re bound to fall while mountain biking. You want to make sure your head is protected when you hit the rocky trail. It’s also important to wear covered shoes that work well on the trail should you end up walking any part of the way.
Finally, please pay attention to your body. Mountain bike terrain is notoriously uneven and bumpy. Prevent joint injury by keeping the knees and elbows soft to absorb any shock. Your arms, legs, and shoulders should be relaxed, and avoid gripping your handlebars too tightly. On occasion, pedal while standing up since this will help take some of the pressure off of your back.
After you get done all these things, you can try a mountain trip as it’s the summer day, which is one of the most suitable seasons for cycling. Just have fun!
