Short distance travelling on a mountain bike, especially after a hectic week, can be the perfect way to decompress while still getting some exercise and having fun.
The bike give you time to experience local beauty and surroundings instead of just looking at them as you drive past them. You also get to get your heart rate up, sweat out the built-up tension after a busy couple of days. And if you have family, it gives you time to connect.
So, if you decide to take your bike out this weekend, keep the following in mind.
Don’t Bike Without a Break
No matter what anyone tells you, biking without taking a break is never a good idea. It may seem tempting to go on the whole ride in one go but keeping your physical limitations and unforeseen circumstances in mind, never hesitate to make at least a few stops in between. You are not competing, and there’s no finish line. It’s meant to be taken slow, so you can enjoy without the rush to be somewhere. Take your time and let the journey take its natural course while you mountain bike.
Involve Your Family Too
Mountain biking may not seem like your usual weekend getaway, but you’ll be surprised to find out that it does make up for a great family activity to do together. If you’re concerned about involving your children, don’t worry because getting a children’s mountain bike in the market has never been easier. Mountain biking is, therefore, a great way to bond with your family in a way you may not be able to otherwise.
Don’t Forget About the Tolls
Before you reach your desired trail, you will likely come across many tolls on the way. So, apart from the fuel cost, keep the toll fees in mind too. Highways and Motorways are usually ticketed, so you may want to plan your budget accordingly.
Gear Up Well
No matter how short the trip might be, you still have to pack well and have all your essentials sorted out. While we don’t mean you need to carry a whole suitcase, you need to make sure to put enough thought into the packing as you will be taking limited supplies.
Always Be Prepared for the Worst
A biking adventure is different from any other activity you’ve ever pursued. While there is no life-threatening situation you will come across necessarily, it’s always better to be prepared for every challenge you can expect on the way. Make sure to carry a first-aid box and enough fluids to keep you hydrated along the way. Even though the activity isn’t dangerous once you have received proper training, the weather can always take a turn for the worst.
Do Enough Research On the Suspension
While most mountain bikes today have suspension travel somewhere between 100 to 150 mm, you should still do your research on the bike you’re using. Typically, a suspension of the given range can cover everything from hard-hitting bikes to cross country machines.
Travel During the Day
While most travel enthusiasts don’t pay much heed to a specific time for leaving, it’s always a good idea to travel during the day. Unless you’re all by yourself and not doing this for the first time, travelling in the evening hours is alright. However, if you’re along with your family and, most importantly, children, do not risk their well-being and security for a few seconds of thrill.
Don’t Lose Your Momentum.
Since you will come across several rocky pathways in between, learn a thing or two about maintaining momentum. Sometimes, you may have to slow down, but other times you will have to speed up. This is because when the terrain is rough and more challenging than usual, you’ll have to make quick decisions about speeding up or slowing down, as momentum is the only way to move forward.
Keep Shifting Your Weight When Needed
You will likely come across many steep declines and inclines, and at that time, you’ll have to shift the weight in the right direction. For example, if you’re climbing a tough pitch, make sure to put your weight in the forward direction and lean as forward as you can to maintain your traction and the centre of gravity. On the other hand, if the trail is tilting downward, go the opposite way and try to shift your weight over the rear wheel. This way, you won’t go over the bars.
Don’t Rely On Just a Credit Card.
Given how you won’t come across many stores in a desert or a forest, have enough essentials packed to get you through at least a day. Some people carry a card and think they’ve done enough, but credit cards are never sufficient in remote areas, so bring your pump, spare tube and other tools along.
In the end, knowing that you have all the essentials you need is the only way to spare yourself the stress of not having enough while you embark on a mountain biking journey. Moreover, it will also help you focus and enjoy the essence of the activity instead of worrying about how ill-equipped you are to deal with an unforeseen emergency.
Mountain biking is one of the best ways to enjoy nature and de-stress while you bike through the most scenic views.
Therefore, ensuring that you have the knowledge and skills to embark on it is the only way to enjoy the ride to the fullest and stay safe as you do so.
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