Want to go places no car can go? At a speed no hiker can match? Experience a rush of a steep downhill that will prohibit many from walking down? You do not need to jump off the cliff to fulfill all of the above.
Mountain biking has plenty of opportunities for a unique adventure.
Here is how to find the perfect experience on the web that will match your requirements.
1.
Do some research?The web is a portal of information that a newbie in biking will appreciate and find useful.
Take a look at the different kinds categories available for your level of expertise.
Most beginners go for the XC type and trail riding kind.
This mostly involves the basic skills of biking and endurance that will breeze you through trails.
Know the skill set required for each mountain biking category and match it with your own.
When you have accomplished this it's time for the next step.
2.
Pick your location.
Mountain treks and activities can be as short as a day's activity and extensive as a week-long expedition.
When finding a location and company it is advised that you make sure they offer an activity that will match your skill set.
Words such as beginners, weekend warriors, and advanced riders should be noted.
Outfitters also have track information on most of their websites.
If you have done your preliminary research well, you would be familiar with terrain indicators such as dirt, sand, rolling, steep, jumps, and downhill to name a few.
If in doubt as to whether a trail will match your skill set, it is advised that you inquire from the outfitter or from experts on the sport.
3.
Check if the outfitter will provide all the necessary bike equipment besides the bike itself.
This way you would know what to bring on your newfound adventure.
Necessary equipment includes a helmet, gloves, knee pads and a first aid kit that will get you through the minor scratches and bruises.
4.
It is always wise to check if the trek is a guided one or if you go with a group that shares the same enthusiast.
For newbies and early learners is advised to sign up for tours that are guided and assisted by mountain bike experts.
The trail is alien to you and it can be treacherous to the inexperienced biker.
5.
Check the perimeter of the mountain biking location for nearby and accessible main roads, first aid stations, food and comfort areas, rangers station and hospitals.
6.
Consider the weather conditions of your chosen location.
Some treks are tricky as they can start off warm at the base and suddenly turn chilly at a certain altitude, and vice versa.
7.
Credentials.
A mountain bike outfitters credentials is as important as wearing a helmet.
Find out the outfitter's accreditation and to what other mountain biking associations they are affiliated with.
This will give you the chance to compare notes with other enthusiasts and enjoy the sport with peace of mind.