Mountain biking is an efficient form of cardiovascular exercise that also lets you appreciate the wonders of nature. According to "Bike Magazine," some of the best trails in the United States can be found in Utah, Oregon, Arizona and California. Mountain bike trails are classified by the types of obstacles, as well as their distance and slope.
Cross Country
Cross country is a low-impact style of mountain bike riding. Cross country trails are usually long and relatively flat and smooth. Cross country mountain bikes typically weigh between 20 and 30 lbs., and have a lightweight frame of aluminum or carbon fiber.
Downhill
Downhill trails allow you to reach top speeds while navigating a sloping course. Downhill mountain bikes have a heavier frame for more stability during high-speed maneuvers. Many downhill trails feature a narrow single-track design. Downhill mountain bikes have an angled seat that permits you to maintain a balanced riding stance. Hydraulic disc brakes are used to slow the momentum of downhill mountain bikes.
Free Ride
Free ride trails, which cater to the extreme mountain bike enthusiast, are equipped with various jumps and ramps. While some free ride mountain bikers prefer a bike with a hard tail design, others opt for a full-suspension bike. A hard tail mountain bike does not have any rear suspension. Free riders must keep their tires parallel to the surface of the ramp and bend their knees as they execute a jumping technique.
Mountain Bike Trials
Mountain bike competitions, often referred to as bike trials, take place on a specialized course. Mountain bike trials use a technical trail design with stationary obstacles that are natural and artificial. Natural sections usually consist of large rocks and boulders. Artificial sections commonly feature narrow man-made bridges. Competitors are judged on their ability to complete each section without making physical contact with the ground. If your body touches the trail, you are assessed penalty points. The rider who successfully completes the section in the least amount of time wins.
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