As the weather starts to get warmer, mountain bikers begin to turn their attention to getting ready for a spring and summer of biking enjoyment. For others who have never tried the sport, it is a good time to start learning what mountain biking is all about.
Most mountain bike riders will say that they ride to stay fit because it is a great form of aerobic exercise. In the next breath they will say that it’s also about the challenge of completing a rugged trail. They enjoy the variety of trails – long and short, easy and challenging.
Like any other sport there are rules. This is especially true for the beginner. Experts advise novices that the first step is to take time to select the right bike. While many bikes are lightweight and allow more speed, most bike riders recommend a full suspension mountain bike because it is more comfortable and has better control in rugged terrain.
The next step is to prepare and assemble the gear needed for a ride. The key to preparing is to think “self-sufficient.” That means to carry what is needed – plenty of water, the tools and supplies needed to maintain the bike, food and to always wear a helmet.
Where do mountain bikers ride? One of the favorite riding areas is the national parks and forests located throughout the United States. Most of the same trails that are used by hikers can be ridden on a mountain bike and there is usually a park or forest near any town or city in the states.
There are also private mountain bike riding trails in many areas of the country. Here are some of the recommended beginner to intermediate mountain bikes riding trails for new riders:
- § NuDraper Mountain Bike Park, Midwest City, Oklahoma.
- § Cheeseboro/Palo Comado Canyons, Agoura Hills, California
- § York River State Park, Williamsburg, Virginia
- § Northshore Trail, Flower Mound, Texas
- § Olmstead Loop, Auburn, California
- § Erie Canalway Trail, Medina, New York
