Getting Started
All
Mountain Biking involves a mixture of fitness and machine control.
Getting started is often simply a case of getting a basic mountain bike
(a simple Cross-Country hardtail is ideal) and going out and exploring
the local countryside. Bicycles can legally use bridleways and Britain
has a superb network of these - learn to read a map and get out and
enjoy yourself.
Riding
competently off-road is a skill which develops through experience and
practice. The very best riders can perform miracles, but every cyclist
can master the basics and enjoy the challenge of riding away from roads.
One
of the best ways to learn off-road skills is by watching other riders.
Riding in a group also has added safety benefits. It therefore makes
sense to join a club. Click on the Clubs button to find a club near you.
The pleasure of riding in a traffic-free environment cannot be understated. Mountain Biking also puts you closely in touch with nature and the landscape and every ride has the potential to become a mini adventure. However, for some, the ultimate test is to start racing.
Thinking About Racing
Beginners
usually find their feet in the numerous Cross-Country events which are
run at club level all round the country. Cross-country is a natural
starting point for all Mountain Bike racing as it is far less
technically challenging than Downhill or 4-Cross and a relatively
inexpensive bike will suffice whilst you learn the ropes.
Cross-Country
events usually have several races catering for a range of abilities and
age groups and are an ideal environment in which to learn the bike
handling and tactical skills necessary to succeed. Look out for Fun
categories - there are also often categories for younger riders and age
related categories for over-thirties. A British Cycling membership and
Licence are usually needed for regional and national events.
If
you are under sixteen, the category system ensures that you compete
against others of a similar age. Adult categorisation is based more on
ability. As they become more successful, riders progress through Sport,
Senior and Expert categories and the very best become "Elite" category
riders. There are also a range of categories for older riders, based on
age.
Progression through the adult categories is through a
national ranking system, administered by British Cycling, which rewards
successful riders with points based on the length and difficulty of an
event. Before you start racing, familiarise yourself with the rules of
the sport, which include this system.
Don't forget that, during the autumn and winter months, Cyclo-Cross events are usually open to mountain bikes, are cheap to enter (no licence required) and offer the chance to hone racing skills on non-technical courses.
