Biking Basics
Over the last two years, I’ve racked up around 600 miles on the trails, hundreds of dollars in debt, and bruises on every part of my body trying to become a competent mountain biker. I’m still not there, but these are all things I wish someone would’ve told me on day one.
Flat or rolling ground is easy—the real difficulty lies in the climb and the descent.
Climb:
Shift to a low gear before you need it
Cover the rear brake, ready to squeeze and step off if you stall out
Eyes up, picking the least obstructed line
Big, even breaths, focusing on the exhale
Aggressive and steady pedaling
Center of gravity ahead of bottom bracket
Smile! You’ll be a strong mountain biker one day
Descent:
Shift to a high gear before you need it
Cover both brakes, remembering that the front does the most work
Eyes up, picking the cleanest line and scanning for other people on the trail
Lowered seatpost
Big, even breaths, focusing on the exhale
Center of gravity behind bottom bracket
Smile! This is payment for the torturous uphill climb
Don’t forget:
Pack extra water and food—you’ll need it
Smile and wave at everyone you pass—be an ambassador for the sport
Pull to the side of the trail for everyone—a sweaty mountain biker going 25 mph is terrifying to children, seniors, horses, and anyone else on the trail
A clean bike is a happy bike—especially the drivetrain
Unless you’ve got a number on your handlebars, you’re not racing—enjoy the ride
If it looks too sketchy, walk your bike—broken pride is cheaper than broken bones