Only some sports can match the exhilarating experience that mountain cycling offers. A sense of confidence prevails as you navigate challenging terrains, steep descents, and technical trails. The sheer adrenaline rush & performance thrills get your blood pumping.
However, one should always pay importance to safety. Mountain cycling comes with its fair share of risk. Engaging in this adventurous sport without proper protective equipment can expose riders to significant risks and potential injuries. Safety should always take priority while riding an mtb cycle. Here are the top tips to keep you out of harm’s way.
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1. Get the Adequate Gear
Priorities Head Protection
Choose a bike helmet that protects your head from various terrains if you plan to ride a mountain bike in India. The mountains and forests contain unknown dangers. Low-hanging tree branches are more likely to hit a mountain biker in the face and be knocked off their bike backwards instead of forwards than a person cycling through town. A full-face or convertible-style helmet that provides additional protection for your head’s front and rear is preferable.
Mountain Biking Gloves
Gloves aid in maintaining a firm hold on the bike’s handlebars. Although fingerless gloves are available, full-fingered gloves provide better protection because skinned knuckles can be as painful as skinned palms. Investing in a nice set of full-fingered gloves for increased security is better.
Safety Apparel
It’s possible to fall or to get scratched through the tree branches. Also, ensure you wear no baggy clothes that might get stuck in the bike chain or somewhere. You can also purchase pads with built-in cushioning or elbow, wrist, and knee protection pads.
Eye Protection
The most delicate organ in our body is the eye. It is essential to use goggles or glasses to shield them from sunlight, high-speed wind, bugs, and other debris. Get impact-resistant or mountain biking-friendly eye protection. To prevent shattered glasses or metal shavings from damaging your eyes in the event of an unfortunate crash, you must wear specialized eye protection made for mountain biking.
2. Assess Your Skill Level
Consider your competence level and the skill levels of the other riders when planning your route. Pick a trail depending on your skill level. Additionally, the best person to rate your riding skills is you. Listen to reasoning, and your instincts regarding a portion of the path you believe is beyond your capabilities. Walking that stretch rather than riding your bike would be best.
Making appropriate judgements is not wrong, significantly if they increase your and your fellow mountain bikers’ safety. Your ability level will improve as you develop your skills. You would eventually advance to professional status and bike areas that were previously forbidden.
3. Stay Hydrated and Mindful of Fatigue
Stay hydrated and pack some snacks and drink for the journey. Be mindful of your degree of exhaustion as you continue to ride. Take a break, end the day early, and return home if you feel exhausted. While mountain riding, fatigue can slow your reflexes and cause significant accidents.
4. Invest in a High-Quality Mountain Bicycle
A good mountain cycle is essential for a thrilling and safe riding experience. This point cannot be highlighted enough. The right mountain bike will serve as a reliable partner and allow you to ride mountains with confidence and utmost ease. Avon Cycles offer top-notch quality and innovative features, ensuring superior performance on challenging terrains. The cycle provides smooth gear shifting, efficient braking, and better control on rugged trails.
5. Bring Necessary Supplies
Include a first aid kit and a mobile phone with a charger in your pack while going for a mountain bike ride. Planning beforehand is preferable to being caught off guard in a forest. If you get unfortunately hurt on the trail, you might face mobile network issues in the trails. Treating injuries with a first-aid kit is advised until you can access a professional aid.
6. Get Familiar with the Trail
If this is your first time on a trail, it is best to go slowly. Avoid giving in to pressure to take potentially dangerous risks. You will encounter rocks, roots, drops, and other difficulties during your rides, so taking extra precautions is vital if your skills aren’t up to the task. Learn the trail by tackling challenging sections, looking for surprises around sharp turns, and continually scanning the path before you. Never become overconfident if you’ve never ridden the trail.
Lastly, following the above-mentioned safety tips will ensure an unforgettable experience while keeping you safe, healthy, and harmless.
