Trail mountain biking is a fun and challenging cardiovascular, endurance and strength training sport. Knowing what type of trail you will be riding prior to your ride will help you get the most out of your ride. There are many different types of trails--fire trails, backwood trails and technically advanced single trails. Always choose a trail that is the right experience level for you and always check the trail prior to your ride. You can check most trails by visiting your local park ranger or using Google Earth.
Check Your Gear
It is essential to check your bike prior to heading out. Small issues can become critical problems especially when you are on an all day ride miles from anyone. It is always best to check tire pressure and any outstanding wear, chain and cranks, derailleurs and handle bar tightness. Always carry a minimum of one spare tube and small tire pump.
Know Your Skill Level and Limits
The most important part of enjoying the ride is to know your skill level and limitations. If you are just learning choose a trail that is a bit wider, less steep and free of ruts. Keep in mind that going up will not be as critical as coming down. Speed control as you descend becomes more critical and harder to control when the slope is more vertical and rutted. For the advanced rider, a single track more vertical trail is preferable.
Speed and Pace
There is nothing worse than wearing yourself out quickly. Always pace yourself on the uphill sections and control your speed as you descend. An out of control descent and slow reaction time will ultimately set you up for a crash. Set your own pace. Trying to keep up with members of an advanced group will cause quick exhaustion and limit the distance you can travel.
Posture
Become one with your equipment and make it an extension of your arms and legs. Bend your knees and elbows to absorb the shock of ruts and bumps. Relax you body and feel the movement to the bike, trying to force the bike in a direction will typically result in a rough ride. Do not hunch over while riding as this will cause fatigue and undue pressure on your lower back.
Downhill
Downhill is technically the most difficult part of riding. Several techniques need to be kept in mind while descending. Predetermine your path as you ride. Keep your center of gravity over the back third of the bicycle, center your pedals and maintain a constant speed by adjusting the tension of both brakes with slightly more on the front. Always keep your pedals level and your heals slightly down.
Riding In a Pack
Always maintain a safe distance between you and the other riders, typically 15 feet while on a flat surface or going uphill and 25 feet downhill. If you are in the center of the pack, always keep in mind the person behind you, sudden stops or change of course can affect their response time causing a wreck. Do not focus on the person in front of you--always keep looking down the trail.
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