We sometimes feel reluctant to take up a new hobby, although it could be extremely beneficial for us. Hobbies represent an integral part of our lives — not only are they enjoyable, but they also help us relax and unwind.
If you still haven’t found a hobby that makes you happy, maybe you simply need to keep looking. It might be a good idea to combine a hobby and a physical activity, and thus get the best of both worlds.
Mountain biking is a perfect example — it allows us to get our daily dose of exercise while providing us with beautiful sceneries that will help us relax. We can improve our health and the way we look, connect with nature, and find a hobby that we’ll love.
Sounds ideal, doesn’t it?
Getting Started
The easiest way to get the taste of mountain biking is to meet someone who already rides. Then, we can borrow one of their bikes, as well as some gear, and join them on an easy singletrack trail. However, if we don’t know anyone who rides, we can rent a bike and other equipment from a bike shop, which is a great alternative.
● Buying a bike
Once we decide to take up mountain biking, we’ll need to head shopping for our own bike and gear. The safest method is to buy the best bike we can afford while paying attention to how we want to ride.
The bike should match our body type, height, and the length of our legs. It’s essential to choose an appropriate bike for ourselves; that way, we’ll avoid being uncomfortable while riding.
There are three main styles of mountain bikes we can choose from:
- Rigid mountain bikes
- Hardtail bikes
- Full suspension bikes
The first type has no suspension; that means few mechanical parts, easily transitioning to riding, and learning the parts easily. However, since it offers no cushioning effects, it’s a bit difficult to ride off-road.
The second type is great for beginners who are interested in tackling difficult terrain since it provides a rigid back wheel and a suspension fork on the front wheel.
The third type provides suspension in both the back and the front, which makes these bikes the most effective and the most comfortable on difficult roads. However, this type is also the most expensive one of the three.
● Buying bike gear
Buying a bike is just the first step. When it comes to bike gear, there are a lot of items we should consider. Some are necessary, as they guarantee our safety, and some are optional.
A helmet that fits properly is an absolute must. It needs to fit snugly without obscuring our vision or pulling down over our ears. Mountain biking without a helmet is unimaginable.
Next on the list are cycling shoes and cleats. It’s best to buy them right away and endure a few bruises in the beginning, but reap the benefits they provide: pedaling efficiency and greater control.
Gloves aren’t necessary, but they can be very helpful. When we sweat, our hands get sweaty too, which can cause slipping. That’s what gloves are for — to ensure we don’t slip. More importantly, if we crash, the gloves will prevent nasty scratches.
When it comes to clothes, we should consider investing in padded shorts, a nice pair of bib shorts, and a high-quality cycling shirt. Also, a backpack is kind of necessary.
Falling Is Inevitable
We have to accept the fact that we will fall sooner or later (probably sooner during our first rides), and that our bike will take a beating. Scratches and bruises are expected, so we better get ready for them. It’s a good idea to have band-aids and blister kits on us, as well as enough water, an extra pair of socks, and a change of clothes or rain gear.
Also, we should start slow and give ourselves time to get comfortable on our bike.
It’s best to start mountain biking with a friend, preferably an experienced one. That way, we can observe what they are doing and pick up a few tricks. Also, if we run into a problem, they can help us resolve it.
Finally, whenever we head riding, we should take some form of identification with us. It’s also smart to let our friends and family know where we are, just in case.
