How To Cross Country Video

Terrain, scenery and adventure are all a part of mountain biking. Learn how to cross country mountain bike in this free video clip.

Take Action

Generally ride on single track trail with moderate terrain
Prepare yourself with water and proper maintenance tools
Medium weight mountain bike is best for this activity

About this Author

Pancho Herrera is passionate about cycling. Pancho races for the SLO Nexus Club on road and mountain bikes. Pancho also has 25 years cycling experience as a competitor and pro shop mechanic.

PANCHO HERRERA: This is Pancho Herrera. Let me give you a brief overview on cross country trail riding. I would like to think of cross country trail riding as the bicycling equivalent to hiking. You are generally riding on single track trails like the one I'm on, and it is generally moderate terrain ups and downs, nothing terribly extreme on the descents. The idea there is to be able to pedal through most of the obstacles that are in your way. Get a nice scenic view, and get some fitness out of the deal as well. Cross country trail riding might involve a lengthy day in the saddle, two, three hours, remember that this is a fitness oriented sport, so prepare yourself with some water, the proper fixing tools for flats and trail side repairs. A good, prepared cyclist is always going to have a better time out on the trail. A little bit of food is not a bad idea either. A cross country trail bike is a medium weight mountain bike, not necessarily large travel; it can be either a full suspension bike, or a hard tail rear end. Typically, we will have a front suspension like my bike has. We will frequently have disc brakes, although it is not mandatory. The idea is to have a bike that is light enough to go a long distance on, and to be comfortable on the climbs, but rugged enough to handle any of the terrain that you want to throw at it. Obviously, middle size tire is appropriate, just like--to go along with your middle weight bike, 2.1 size tire is very common on a cross country bike. So, once you have selected your equipment, prepared your body, and your gear, it is time to go hit the trails, and try out cross country mountain biking.

How to Cross Country Video

Take Action

About this Author

Member Comments