Mountain biking is one of those sports that you have to be prepared for and in good shape. Since the terrains will be quite challenging and physically demanding, you have to think about various things to prepare.
The bicycles are specifically designed for road use and harsh terrains. Today’s bicycles seem like something from the science fiction movie compared to the first one designed in the late 1800s. Among the first examples are the bikes modified for off-road travel of the expedition of soldiers from Missoula to Yellowstone, the USA in 1896.
Mountain bikes have different characteristics than normal bike variety. They use features to increase durability and obtain optimal performance in difficult terrains. These differences include tires, handlebar, smaller frame and better brakes. Pedals even differ among the mountain bike models and can be platform or clip less. This also means that they range in price as well as quality.
The travel alone can take days in the rough terrain and you will have to set camp or plan your stay in a nearby place. This means that you should pack appropriately and that you shouldn’t start your travel without the certain things.
Help local community
You will be tempted to make stops at the famous brands on your travels. This includes restaurants, hotels and other big chains you already heard about. But one of the benefits of mountain biking is that you will come across a lot of local small businesses.
Buy fruits and vegetables from the local farmers, stay at the bed and breakfast and eat at diners. This is a fine way to help the smaller and local business community. Also, it may prove more quality than eating junk food or cheaper than bigger chains.
Plan the bike route
There are many attractive places for mountain biking, and some are even famous for it. However, that doesn’t mean that you should go without planning your route. It is a recreational activity and you will certainly enjoy nature, but consider setting up goals.
Additionally, that will help you to plan the rides based on the terrain type, weather conditions and elevation. Choose the trails that fit your stamina and preparedness the best, as well as what you want to achieve. Some people enjoy mountain biking purely for recreation, while others want to lose weight or train for more demanding rides.
Don’t forget insurance
Mountain biking is an extreme sport and can lead to injuries. Buy travel insurance so your possible medical costs are covered and in case your trip gets cancelled. Accidents happen and you can’t take a risk with your health or any unpredictable event.
There are various options for insurance and you can choose the one you consider the best for your mountain biking plan. However, don’t try to save money on important issues like buying appropriate insurance for yourself in case of injury, theft or delayed flights.
Snacks, meals and beverages while travelling
Eating the right foods is important every day, but when you are doing something physically and mentally demanding then you have to make sure you’re eating properly. Mountain biking requires appropriate energy for the travel and you can achieve that through food.
It’s important to stay hydrated at all times and a water bottle should be always by your side. Fruits like bananas and apples are important for vitamins and natural sugars. Make peanut butter sandwiches and take canned food with you, like tuna for the protein.
For example, squash bananas, apples in the bowl and add blueberries and Japanese BCAA amino acids. Mix all that with milk and add whole wheat cereals you left to soak in water overnight. This type of breakfast is not only healthy but will keep you sated until you make a break for a snack by the road.
Don’t litter the environment
One of the advantages of mountain biking is that you will have an opportunity to enjoy amazing landscapes and natural beauties. This connection with nature will also keep you in the wild for a couple of days and that means that you will have to take care of the garbage.
Bring garbage bags with you, use recyclable materials and don’t litter around. Don’t throw away your garbage in nature, but rather wait until you encounter a settlement or garbage bin. Respect the wildlife and don’t try to pet the dangerous animals or hurt them out of fear. If you plan to ride through the parts famous for its wildlife, travel in a group and make noise so the animals would get out of your way.
Check your bike
Before you start your journey, leave an emergency contact information in your passport and check your bike. You can also carry the emergency contact information in your wallet, and include the embassy number beside the friend or family member details.
You can take your bike to the bike shop for a more detailed check-up, but there are some things you should do on the spot. Drop your bike on the floor to see if anything is rattling or unscrewed. Test the breaks and tires to make sure that they’re working properly. Adjust the wheel and secure it tightly, as well as the headset.
If anything is not in order and you can’t fix it by yourself, it’s better to go back and seek professional help. The same applies if any damage occurs on the road. Don’t attempt to ride with the broken or unsecured bike since that can lead to serious injury.
Finally
Think about safety first and approach all your riding plans that way. Mountain biking is an exciting sport that certainly deserves the attention and popularity it gained. However, just like any sport, it takes prepared and responsible people to participate.