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Two-wheel Traveling on a Mountain Bike

By: Colette Thyman

If you're considering an SUV or truck to explore the countryside, you're thinking two wheels too many. To get really close to nature, have a blast and stay in shape, head for the hills on a mountain bike.

The popular "mountain bike" style was developed, as the name suggests, from bicycles designed for cruising up and down a mountain. Obviously racing down a mountainside can be a real adrenaline rush, but it can also be quite dangerous. Anyone actually considering taking on a mountain pass is advised to invest in a bike designed to accomplish such a task. With the right equipment and some common sense, mountain biking is a fun sport for the entire family.

Ride in Style

There are three basic styles of mountain biking: cross-country, freestyle, and downhill. Although the styles vary in many ways, each demands a great deal of skill. Choosing your personal riding style will determine the type of mountain bike you should buy. In other words, don't buy a heavy downhill bike if you plan on busting moves with your buddies. A lighter freestyle model is better suited for trick riding.

Perfect Your Skills

To be a great mountain biker you need stamina and endurance. Conquering nature's courses also requires ambition and, sometimes, courage. Like all sports, mountain biking also involves time and practice. A lot of practice. Just because you've been riding your bike, you may not be ready for scaling rocky hills and maneuvering through winding trails. You'll have to suffer a few bumps and bruises before you're ready to ride with the big kids.

Location, Location, Location

Think of mountain biking as riding an unpaved surface. Your bike is ready to take you virtually anywhere you want to be, and many North American parks offer designated biking locations. Before hitting the trails in a park or conservatory, check for rules and regulations. There may even be trail maps available for you to bring along on your trek. Ask about local mountain biking clubs and group trail rides and competitions. You can easily find this information by asking at a local bike shop, checking the papers or searching online. Beginner to advanced groups are available, so be sure you're joining a club that matches your skill level.

Buying Your Bike

Once you've narrowed down your mountain biking style -- cross-country, freestyle or downhill -- the bike you select basically comes down to personal choice. There is a huge variety of makes and models on the market today. Compare styles, shapes and price.

Be sure to consider the quality of the bike and the reliability of the manufacturer, but don't be fooled into thinking the most expensive models are necessarily the best bikes. The Internet can be a great tool in shopping for a bike, as some compare quality, features and prices for you.

When you've find a bike that you like, ask for a test drive. To be a great mountain biker, you need to feel "as one" with your bike. Make sure that the seat and position are comfortable and that the gears and brakes are suited to you.

A mountain bike can be a major investment, so ask for advice and do your homework before you buy.

Keep it Safe

Mountain biking can be dangerous on unpaved roads and through unexplored territory. It's impossible to know what's waiting around the next bend. Always wear a helmet no matter where you're riding. Kneepads, elbow pads and riding gloves are also good choices to keep you safe and comfortable, and you should wear goggles if you're riding in the woods or following a group. Always keep a few band-aids in your pack, just in case.

Whether you're riding across the county, or across the country, mountain biking is a great way to see the sights and stay in shape. Wear a helmet, proceed with caution and have fun!

Article Source: http://www.HealthArticleBank.com

Columnist Colette Thyman contributes to several popular Internet magazines, on sports recreation and golf products issues.

 

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