Mountain biking is one of the most popular sports nowadays, so it’s no wonder why many individuals are eager to try it out. If you’re a beginner, it can be a bit challenging because you’ll definitely need an increased level of preparedness, especially if you explore more difficult terrains.
There’s nothing better than getting on your mountain bike and hitting the trails on a sunny day. But even before you take your bike out, ensure you’re well equipped with everything, from essential gear and equipment down to your mountain biking apparel.
So, what exactly do mountain biking beginners need to have? Here are the eight important items you must have for a more enjoyable and safe mountain bike riding experience.
A cycling jersey serves as your upper body’s first line of defense. It’s not only comfortable but also enhances ventilation, keeping you cool and dry even when you are riding at full speed until you’ve conquered the peaks.
The best mountain biking jerseys are made from moisture-wicking properties, so you can be certain they won’t make your skin wet and keep you comfortable at all times. Cycling companies, such as MoxieCyclingCompany.com, usually offer jerseys in sleeveless, short sleeves, or long sleeves. You can mix and match according to your preferences or style.
Your helmet must be the first thing to purchase. Wearing a helmet is not only for your safety, but it also protects your head from rocks and other debris that may fall on you while you’re traveling through bumpy and rough trails.
Mountain biking helmets are designed to be lightweight yet strong enough to withstand heavy impact in case of crash or fall. So, be equipped with one that fits perfectly, is durable, and guarantees optimal head protection.
Another essential a mountain biker should never forget is eye safety gear. They protect your eyes from dust, debris, and harsh elements like the sun’s UV rays so never head out on a trail without wearing them.
While it’s advisable to wear eye protection for maximum safety, you may still opt for glasses with straps instead. The basic idea is to keep your eyes protected when you set off on your mountain biking journey. So, make sure you invest in one preferably with impact-resistant and scratchproof lenses for excellent eye coverage.
Mountain biking gloves are designed to protect your hands from blisters and calluses. They keep your hands dry by covering them entirely with breathable material, which is perfect for retaining moisture at bay while biking on a hot day.
It’s never too early to start wearing a pair of biking gloves, especially if you’re a beginner who’s just learning to make a turn and increase speed correctly. Gloves provide the most enhanced grip, allowing you to safely navigate through trails and handle your bike without any problem.
You can’t just wear any type of shoes while mountain biking because it may not provide you with adequate ankle support that protects you from injuries. It would be best to have a pair of mountain biking shoes with perfect soles that hold your feet firmly on the pedals. That way, it’ll keep you safe during extreme rides.
Mountain bikes usually have flat pedals, so wearing the right shoes is crucial when getting started on your bike riding adventure. You can also have athletic footwear with comfortable insoles and lightweight outsoles. It’ll give your feet ample room to breathe while allowing them to flex effortlessly.
Mountain biking requires a lot of crouching and uneven terrain, which may put a strain on your joints. It’s also best to wear knee and elbow pads that safeguard you from getting scraped while you’re traversing rough terrains.
Injuries are inevitable and common to every mountain biker. It pays to be adequately protected with a pair of pads for maximum safety and comfort. They also provide ideal support for limbs, giving you a natural feel of trails while eliminating all chances for major injuries.
A hydration pack is a must-have item. You’ll need an ample supply of water and energy drinks during your mountain biking excursions that’ll prevent you from dehydration.
Hydration packs are usually compact enough that they won’t take up much space, leaving you with more free room in your portable bag. Ensure you always stay hydrated during your mountain biking escapade for exquisite performance, keeping you energized and boosting stamina.
Mountain biking adventure is fun—until something happens mid-trail; your front wheel gets stuck in a rock crevice, the brakes stop working correctly, or you have a flat tire. Of course, you don’t want to get stranded on a busted bike with no access to the right tools and equipment for quick repairs.
To avoid such circumstances, always carry your bike repair kit that contains all the important tools that’ll help turn your complex situation into an easy and quick fix. Here are the essential tools you should have:
You need a spare inner tube to replace your punctured one. It’s recommended to carry two inner tubes, one for the front wheel and the other for the rear because they are more likely to get punctured.
A patch kit is a vital tool for repairing your inner tube. The kit consists of patches that you stick on the inside of the tire after removing the punctured area so you can continue riding without getting stranded.
Always make sure your bike is equipped with a mini pump. The pump should be capable of inflating the tire at least to a certain degree (22 PSI), so you can get going again after a puncture.
-
Mountain Biking Multitool
This is one of the essential tools every biker should have. It contains small tools such as Allen keys or wrenches, screwdrivers, and more that help you fix chains, pedals, and brakes.
Tire levers are helpful when you’re trying to remove a deflated tire from the wheel. It’s also useful when you’re trying to fix a flat tire by removing the debris stuck in your front or rear wheel.
A chain link is used to fix broken chains. It basically connects both ends of the chain so you can ride your bike again. The chain is located on the bottom part of your bike’s cassette.
Takeaway
Mountain biking is considered an extreme sport because of its arduous nature. Yet, it can also be a fun and exciting way of relishing the outdoors and honing your physical prowess. However, as with any other sport, bikers like you need to equip with protective gears and equipment that’ll keep you safe and offer the proper support for your body. In that way, you can enjoy mountain biking to the fullest while eliminating the chances of injuries.