Mountain Biking for Novices
We all have to start somewhere, and that's just as true in beginning mountain biking. Going off-road carries with it some needed skills that can be developed over time. And, of course, the equipment for safe and enjoyable riding differs from the ordinary road or cruising bicycle. Getting the right mountain bike and accessories to go with it requires some research either online or in bicycle shops.
All bike riding necessitates taking safety precautions, but that's even more necessary when it comes to riding trails. Here are a few valuable tips to keep in mind when you take up the exhilarating sport of mountain biking.
Mountain Bike Cycling - Tips for Beginners
Mountain bike cycling is probably the most accessible sort of cycling available, and definitely the most exciting by far. It is superb for fitness and it takes you away from traffic and all the usual daily stresses of life.
Mountain bike cycling is usually done off-road, which means in the countryside, on bridleways and allotted cycle trails, and sometimes on more difficult technical trails. It's important to practice your skills first before you go on difficult technical trails though.
The best way to gain any skills is to practice and spend time on your bike. Sometimes watching other more experienced riders and watching DVDs, or reading books can help, but the best thing by far is practice.
So you need a mountain bike to get started, and get practicing, therefore you need to choose one that you think is suitable for you. There are lots of different types of bikes on the market and they range in price and design. If you are a beginner it's a good idea to get a less expensive bike, so you can try out mountain bike cycling before you splash out lots of cash.
When you have your mountain bike you need something suitable to wear when out riding it. Mountain bikers tend to go for a more casual look than road cyclists, for example they often wear baggy shorts. Proper mountain bike shorts look like normal shorts but they've got a padded lining for comfort when riding.
Most importantly, there are several critical bits of kit that are important to wear at all times, irrespective of the weather, and these are a helmet, glasses, and gloves. These safety items are to help protect you against flying mud and stones, low hanging branches, troublesome bushes, and falling off your bike.
You will doubtless experience some minor falls as these are part of the fun of mountain bike cycling but if you are wearing the right protective clothing you should only suffer minor bruises and grazes.
When you've got all the appropriate gear you'll have to think of where to go mountain bike cycling. There are plenty of guides to local areas available from bike shops, book shops or on the internet, and you can get really good local information from Visitor Information Centres locally. There are even some allocated mountain bike centres run by the Forestry Commission with marked bike trails for different abilities.
When you have all the correct gear and information you will be ready to go mountain bike cycling, but some basic knowledge of mountain bike maintenance would also be a big advantage to keep you safe and help you to push yourself to the limit. The most important thing of all is to really enjoy the adrenaline rush.
Cycle the Beauty of the American Southwest
May 29, 2009 by Robert · Leave a Comment
A lot of the old western movies were filmed amid the spectacular landscapes of the American Southwest. In more recent years, it's become recognized that some of the most scenic and challenging terrain for bicycle riding is available all over this region.
Some of the areas are especially inviting from the cyclists point of view, particularly if you're into mountain biking. The article that follows highlights some of those locations to keep in mind as you plan a cycling holiday. Read on for some details.
Explore the Picturesque Beauty of the American Southwest
Have you ever been to the American Southwest? If so then you have realized that the cinematic beauty often associated with the Southwest is even more beautiful in person. It is a fantastic area to spend the day riding your bike. Check out these hot spots and try to disagree.
The Bell Rock Pathway outside Oak Creek, Arizona is often filled with many riders. Its popularity, though not unfounded, is something to keep in mind. There are multiple trails designed to suit different skill levels, so you can surely find something that will work. What makes these trails so great are the historic spots along the way. Lee Mountain, Courthouse Butte, Wild Horse Mesa, Bell Rock and Cathedral Rock are all reasons to keep on pedaling. The trail is only a little over 3 and half miles, but its popularity is unmatched.
Cedro Peak, near Albuquerque, New Mexico, is an awesome place for those of you with intermediate biking skills. There are some tough rocky climbs so you want to make sure you are fit before tackling these trails. The climb is well worth it, at 5900 feet above sea level the views are breathtaking.
If happen to be near Bridgeland, Utah in the springtime you have to check out the Beaver Creek-Logan Canyon Train. The meadows are sprinkled with beautiful wildflowers, it makes you think of that scene from the Wizard of Oz. The twenty six mile looped trail is built for a casual ride, so beginners are more than welcome here. Campgrounds are very close so I recommend spending a day or two cruising around this beautiful area of Utah.
Few places can match the beauty of Lake Tahoe. Nestled in the Sierra Nevada mountains, Lake Tahoe shares ownership between Nevada and California. The Star Lake Bike Trail is truly meant for the advanced bike rider. Though only 16 miles long, it is very steep in certain spots. The Carson Valley and Lake Tahoe are truly rewarding for the cyclists who make the steep climb. If you feel the steep climb will be too much, there is a turnaround area at the four mile mark.
Not far from Tahoe, but down in the valley on the California side is the town of Redding and the French Gulch Run. This is a remote area and is ideal for the adventure seeker with some experience. The Gulch has over 100 miles of bike trails with some steep area but the remoteness is what you need to worry about. Weather changes quickly in this part of the country so you need to make sure you go out prepared.
The skylines and landscapes of the American Southwest are among the most beautiful in the world. Seen from the saddle of your bike after a good, long ride makes them even prettier. Some of these trails are popular but its hard to feel closed in because of the big skies and open outdoors of the southwest. If you have been, go back, if not, make sure you get the chance, you wont regret it.
Tags: biking, Cycling, fitness, health and fitness, hobbies, mountain bike cycling, Mountain Bikes, Mountain Biking, recreation and sports, sport, sports and leisure, sports and recreationSpecialized Bikes for Novices and Pros
May 27, 2009 by Robert · Leave a Comment
The cycling scene has it's share of top quality brands, and Specialized Bikes reside right up there at the technological pinnacle. This brand offers equipment for every style of riding and all terrains accessible by the bicycle. Not only that, there's something to accommodate any budget. For those into mountain biking, or planning to take it up, Specialized is a brand that should seriously be considered. Read on for more insight into this long established bike manufacturer.
Finding Specialized Bikes For Sale
The process of purchasing Specialized bikes for sale starts with picking the appropriate style of bicycle for the terrain or use of the bicycle. Specialized bikes make both mtb bikes and bicycles for road cycling. Fixies and single speed bikes are becoming more popular as well as cruiser and basic commuting style recreational bikes. BMX style bikes for the kids; and triathlon/time trial bikes for the speed freaks.
Trying to hit the trails and single track in style? Specialized bikes produces downhill bikes and various front and rear suspension MTBs. Bike lines you've definitely heard of are the Specialized Stumpjumper, Hardrock, & Rockhopper. There are many setups for pros and novices when it comes to Specialized bikes for sale.
If you're interested in finding a really sharp deal on a Mountain Bike, check out the bargains on Specialized Mountain Bikes on eBay.
Entry level Specialized road bikes include the Allez series and the ever popular Langster. Carbon fiber and Specialized bikes FACT technology makes up many of these road cycles to make them light and fast. There should be several Specialized bikes for sale that will be in your price range; whatever the budget.
Specialized bmx bicycles are also an important part of their catalogue. BMX bikes are very popular Specialized bikes for sale and are great for riding around the neighborhood on a sunny day! For big and little kids, these bike motor cross cycles are fun to do tricks on.
Specialized also makes time trial and triathlon bikes like the Specialized Transition. This lightweight aggressive bike is made for speed and aerodynamics. Many pro triathletes have chosen this great bike which has been seen on the winners podium across the country.
Specialized bikes has been making bicycles for decades and have some of the most reliable and technologically advanced bikes on the planet. From the road to the mountain, there are many Specialized bikes for sale that will bring you years of enjoyment.
Specialized bikes probably makes a bike for you, regardless of your skill level or training. Need a mountain bike or road bicycle, makes sure to check out Specialized bikes for sale.
Mountain Bike Maintenance – Do it Yourself
May 4, 2009 by Robert · Leave a Comment
Assuming you're just getting started with mountain biking, it may interest you to know that there are many things a beginner can do to carry on routine mountain bike maintenance. A lot of what's required isn't all that difficult, and can save you money in the long run. Here are some tips you can use.
Mountain Bike Maintenance for Beginners
If you own a mountain bike you can save money and improve your enjoyment of riding it by performing your own mountain bike maintenance.
If you know you can repair any breakdowns you will feel more confident going on longer, more remote trails but you'll be less likely to have breakdowns if you've maintained your bike properly.
You can save money by performing your own maintenance as you won't need to pay someone else to do it, and your parts should last longer if you've looked after them well.
One of the first issues to consider if you plan to do your own maintenance is the getting the right basic tools. As you learn more you may want to get more specialised tools for your bike.
It's important to remember to also carry a tool kit with when you ride. You can get compact tool kits to take with you that are smaller and easier to carry than the tools you'll use at home. It's very important to remember to try all your tools at home before you take them out.
Another vitally important thing in basic mountain bike maintenance, before you even think about getting some tools, is to keep your bike clean.
Get into the habit of cleaning your bike after every ride, either by wiping it down or washing it with a bucket of hot water and soap. Make sure you rinse it or wipe it down afterwards and this will prevent any dirt getting into places it shouldn't get into.
The next stage of basic maintenance includes lubricating the chain as this is vital to keep it functioning efficiently. There are many good lubricants available, including some self cleaning ones, and you should get into the routine of applying it at least a few hours before you ride, even the night before.
Another step in basic maintenance is to check the air pressure in the tyres. Checking this regularly will protect them and provide you with a comfortable ride. You also need to change the tyres now and again, and be sure you know how to repair a puncture.
Other items to check on a regular basis are brake and gear cables, which stretch over time and therefore can become ineffective. You should replace them every 6 - 9 months but the exact time depends on how often you ride your bike.
Checking your brake pads is the next really important task on your list of maintenance issues to deal with. They can wear out fast and you should also be checking the alignment of the pads against the wheel rims. They should be free of the sidewall of the tyres when not applied but sit squarely on the rims when they are applied.
Lastly on your basic maintenance list check all the nuts and bolts on your bike and tighten any loose ones with an Allen key or a spanner.
Breakdowns will happen regardless of the maintenance you perform, but some can be prevented, and it is better to be able deal with them and stop them when possible with regular bike maintenance routines.
Mountain bike maintenance is more often than not cheaper than repair so look after your bike well with regular checks. Also with just a little maintenance knowledge you can ride further for longer and feel safe that you can fix things when they go wrong.
