Who doesn't like to get down and dirty? With Mountain Biking, that is what it's all about! Mountain Biking is done off-road on rough, rocky, rooted and dirt terrain. It is a lot like Dirt Biking, but without the motor, or at least, you are the motor. Mountain Biking requires endurance, core strength, bike handling skills and balance. A brass set of nerves is also helpful in this sport. Terrain can vary from place to place depending on what part of the country you are in. The east coast and more specifically, the northeast corridor, tends to boast an endless supply of rocks, roots and mud. The west coast can be rooted and muddy but for the most part, offers a faster moving trail system in comparison to the east. The Rockies can be loamy, but the lung busting climbs are enough to send you to the nearest convenience store for some Fig Newtons and a Coke. Anyway you slice it, it is a barrel of laughs and fun.
Mountain bikes differ in geometry from road bikes and tend to have a tighter reinforced frame and sloping top tube. The tubing is sometimes wider and the front forks offer suspension giving a wider range of travel to accommodate changing terrain. The wheels are usually 26 inches, but the 29 inch wheel, aka the 29'er is gaining popularity. Ask anyone on a 29'er and they will tell you how much flow they have on grueling trails. Mountain bike tires are also much wider and have an aggressive tread, although many types and variations of width and tread are offered. Depending on your riding style and where you ride may influence your tire choice. Disc brakes are very popular for mountain bike brakes and allow for greater breaking ability which can come in handy if you find yourself in a sticky situation. A larger gear ratio is also used. There are 3 chain rings in the front and and a rear cluster in the back, all of which are geared for going up steep terrain and maneuvering over technical terrain. The smallest ring in the front is called the "granny gear" because it offers a super easy gear when you need to be a Mountain Goat.
There are all types of Mountain Bike disciplines such as Downhilling, Free-riding, Trials Riding, Dirt-Jumping, Slalom, and of course, the classic single-track style of Cross-Country riding. No matter what your poison, there is something for everyone. Whichever you choose, be sure to always wear a helmet. Additional protective gear is essential for the high speed, more daring riders who live for the thrill of their next jump or big downhill.
A great way to get involved in Mountain Biking is to find a club near you who offers beginner rides. Often times you will not only learn skills and safety, but you get to ride trails with other people who are a load of fun. It's best to ride with people who know the trail system, especially if you are riding in an area that is easy to get lost in. Always tell someone where you are going in the event you do get lost and have no means of contacting help.
