How To Mountain Bike

If you want to enjoy the great outdoors, but don't want to have to walk all the way up and down those mountains, then it's time for you to learn how to mountain bike. Mountain biking is the perfect way to enjoy the outdoors while getting some exercise at the same time. Because flying down a mountain trail at break-neck speed is fairly dangerous, it is recommended that you begin your new hobby slowly. Also, you should always wear a helmet, and probably elbow and knee pads, since you will likely fall in the beginning.

1. Learn to control your balance. Left and right balance is important in all biking, but in mountain biking, front and back balance is just as important. If one of the wheels is slipping or coming off of the ground, you need to learn how to shift your weight to keep the bike in balance. This is important whether you are riding in the saddle or standing on the pedals.
2. Shift gears when it is appropriate. Mountain bikers should be able to spin the pedals between 60 and 90 times a minute. This works out to between one and one and a half revolution for every second. Shift to a lower gear when going uphill and shift to a higher gear when going downhill.
3. When you need to slow down, use both brakes to stop. Don't just use the back brake, as you may force yourself into a skid which will damage the trail and not really slow you down much.
4. Brake before you reach a corner, not during the corner. Lean in the direction that you are turning and watch where you are going. Once you are halfway through the turn, start pedaling and accelerate out of the turn.
5. To climb hills, stand up in the saddle to increase the power in each stroke. You may have to rock the bike left and right as you pedal to keep it straight. When you are going downhill, sit back in the saddle to keep your weight over the back wheel.
6. Walk when the terrain gets too rough. Mountain biking is a skill that takes a long time to master, so don't try anything too dangerous too soon. Gradually increase the difficulty of the terrain and get off your bike to walk through any areas that you feel are dangerous.