Mountain biking offers a fantastic buzz and adrenaline rush, but it can also be dangerous if you don’t follow a few safety precautions. Here are some tips for newcomers to mountain biking.
Helmets are a must
Invest in a high-quality helmet that also fits well so that it protects your head from any potential injuries should you fall off your bike. There are mountain biking specific helmets and for downhill riding, you could buy a full face helmet.
Wear the right gear
Aside from a helmet, there are some other forms of protective gear that you’re going to want to wear while riding your bike. These include:
Gloves – to protect your hands from scrapes, bruising, and blisters
Body armour – protect vulnerable areas of your body with hard case protection, such as knee and shoulder pads and also shin guards
Glasses – protective glasses or goggles are important to protect your eyes from the glare of the sun as well as debris and branches
First aid supplies
When you’re new to something like mountain biking, you should anticipate having an accident or two. You’ll want to make sure that you’re ready to tend to your injuries right away. First aid supplies should be available when you ride.
Consider using a small bag or roll you can attach to your bike so they are with you when you need them.
Speaking of first aid, you’re also going to want to make sure that you know what to do if you should get hurt. Check out first aid tips and easy to read guides that can help you treat injuries and wounds until you’re able to seek proper medical attention.
Stay safe on a mountain bike. Pic credit: Zach Dischner
Skills lessons
Learn from the experts how to tackle the off-road terrain. Also be prepapred to put in hours of practice to perfect your skills and proper techniques. There are plently of mountain biking guides and instructors who can help you when you’re new to mountain biking, and when you want to step up your skills to the next level.
Is your bike fit?
Make sure that your bike is ready for the ride as well. If your bike is old or poorly maintained, this could increase your risk of an accident.
Before each ride, give your bike a quick once-over to make sure everything is in good working order. Check brakes, tyres, gears and chain. As you’re riding, if you hear sounds or feel something off with your bike, get off and resolve the issue right away.
Remember, practice makes perfect and mountain biking is not something you want to try to rush. Enjoy the journey and stay safe.
- Thank you to Sara Stringer for contributing this post.