Feed: Mountain Biking HQ - AggScore: 10.4

If you are trouble with what gift to give for a friend, a relative or a love one, the best source of idea is his or her hobby. If he or she loves mountain biking, here are some gift ideas to take note of:

Air-pump
While it is nice to have a floor pump ready in the garage, most flat-outs happen on the trail. In fact, it is the most common problem bikers experience. Portable or mini air-pump is a real life saver. So if you know that he or she doesn’t carry a mini pump while on the trail, consider this as your first gift choice. Throw in a pressure gauge too. Or better yet, buy a mini air-pump with built-in pressure gauge.

Spare Inner Tube
At any given point, mountain bikers can experience a flat. Sometimes, tires get ruptured beyond repair and must be replaced while in the trail. It would really help if you buy spare inner tube as a gift to save your biker friend from walking a long way down the mountain carrying his bike in case he hits a nasty bump.

Trail multi-tool
Aside from portable air-pump, every mountain biker should carry a trail multi-tool in case of breakdown while on the trail. There are different kinds of trail-multi tool on the market. I suggest that you buy one that has a built-in chain tool.

Sunglasses
Sunglasses function as protection from dust, insects, and other particles that can enter the eyes while riding. They also serve as filter and light enhancer. Go for functional and stylish sunglasses.

Gloves
Wearing a pair of gloves is a must during riding. It protects the biker’s palms and fingers during crash. As a gift, it is something that bikers can’t have too many of.

Backpack
A backpack that can house everything a biker needs is another gift option.

Water Bottle or Hydration Pack
A stylish water bottle is another gift idea that you cannot get wrong with as any style, size and color will do. Hydration pack with bladder on the other hand has gained more popularity as it is more convenient to drink from and has enough room for the biker’s snack, pump and tools at the same time.

Mountain Bike Apparel
This is easy and probably the safest way to make him or her happy. Bike shirts, jackets and shorts are most appreciated. There are hundreds of types and several brands to choose from. All you need to do is to know his size and his taste.

Upgrades
Figuring out which part of your friend’s bike needs to be upgraded is the tricky part. But you can easily get a clue during conversation. If it is the bike that is the topic, you can always casually ask the parts that he or she wants to get replaced. It can be a surprise if you secretly bring it to the bike shop and have something upgraded.

A New Bike
Feeling extremely generous? Why not give him or her a brand new bike? But don’t just go a bike dealer and point on one bike on display (or browse online and buy the first bike on the list). You must know what he or she wants and needs. Have a casual talk or go to a bike dealer with him (or her) and observe his (or her) movements.

You will surely get a clue of what type of bike he or she wants.

As a recreational activity, mountain biking should be fun. But that doesn’t mean you free to do whatever you want. When riding on national parks and public trails, you are more likely to encounter hikers, joggers and horseback riders using the same trails. Since you are traveling at a faster speed than others, it is important to take precautions, observe proper conduct and show consideration for others.

Below is the list of proper conduct and etiquette that you must observe while in the area:

Go easy with hikers. When you have to pass them, slow down and make sure they know that you are there. Do not pass in top speed, otherwise you will startle them. You may even receive negative reaction if you do not slow down. Once you have seen persons in front of you, reduce substantial speed as you get near and make some noise so that they will know that you are coming. A greeting or a bell is good but sometimes, foot scrape, gear shift or any subtle noise is enough. Never assume that they have seen you until they look up.

Do not forget to thank them for giving you their right of way. Pass with care especially if there are young children and pet animals. The key is to show respect and be polite.

Give way - If you see other bikers or hikers coming your way, the best thing you can do is to slow down until you reach full stop and let them pass, especially if the track is narrow or if they are coming from above. Add some smile on your face and a polite nod.

Never scare horses and other animals - Horses are often scared of bikes. If you see equestrians coming your way, make sure that you dismount at least 15 meters from the horse. Most horse owners will appreciate this gesture and will thank you. Also you will never know if you are dealing with horseback rider or an inexperienced horse so initiate courtesy.

Moreover, do not make any abrupt movements that will scare the pet animals of other people on the trail. Be respectful with the owners and they will surely appreciate you. Keep your distance from any animals you have seen on the wild whether it is dangerous or not. Do not disturb them because they may attack. Remember that animals are more scared than you but they will not hesitate to fight back if you pose any threat to them.

Leave no traces - Do not throw anything on the trail. Bring a small bag to place all your trash. Candy and food wrappers, plastic cups, empty glue tubes and bike parts are non-biodegradable. Stay on the trail. If you cannot ride the trail, dismount, carry your bike and walk through it. Do not create new paths to avoid bike tracks that may be followed by other bikers. If you are going to ride on private property, make sure that you ask permission from the owner.

These are some of the things you must do as a mountain biker to show your respect and consideration to others and the environment. Take this in mind whenever you set out on a mountain biking trip or even if you are going for a quick ride to a public park.

When buying a mountain bike, decide first the riding style that you really want to do most. Buying a mountain bike after only looking at the first few ones you inspected is very tempting. This often happens because mountain bikes, at a glance look basically the same. It is usually loaded with features and stuff, ruggedly built that can stand punishment than most bikes. Too many times, a mountain bike is bought designed to climb steep inclines and loaded with impressive upgrades that never gets off the pavement. This is like buying an impressive four by four SUV that was never used off road. There goes the fun.

But if you really enjoy riding off road, zip through the woods, sand or rocky trails, you deserve a good mountain bike.

Before buying a mountain bike determine your riding style and the terrain that you will be using it for.

Wheels ? mountain bikes are mounted on knobby tires. The wider threads are designed to give the rider better grip on the road when traveling over rocks, dirt, sand or gravel. The tire pressure is also less so that more rubber is in contact with the road thereby getting more traction. The spokes and rims are designed to be sturdy to handle the riding that mountain biking requires.

Whatever the tire you use, mountain bikes do not go as fast as road bikes. They are designed to be sturdy with a higher riding position, wider threads, stouter frames, higher ground clearance (so the rider can better negotiate a rugged terrain); features straight handlebars and can generally take the punishment. Speed with a mountain bike takes a back seat.

Frame ? if you have money to spend on a mountain bike, spend it well on frames. Beware of mountain bike set ups with very appealing add-ons like front and rear shocks, multiple gears etc. If the mountain bike is built from heavy frames, it probably will not last long in rugged off road conditions. You will also be encumbered with the added weight that should be the last thing a mountain biker needs.

Choose your frames well. If you have to buy a good mountain bike, choose a good dealer. Your mountain bike is often just as good as the dealer that sold it to you. Mass retailed mountain bikes that are sold in department stores serves a purpose but if you want something really good, find a good seller.

Handlebars ? choose handlebars that offer the best position for vision and control. All mountain bike handle bars are flat and straight but this should also allow the rider to sit comfortably straight.

Riding position ? Mountain bikes are designed so that the rider is in an upright position. This position may not be as comfortable as the riders’ position in a street bike but this position allows the biker to get a better grip and very effective control on the mountain bike.

Suspension ? the choice is between full suspension and a hard tail. Whenever you can, go for full suspension. It does not only allow you to control your down slopes well it is also easy on the back.

If the budget allows it, resist the temptation of buying cheap. The old adage that tells us that we only get what we pay for will always be true. Mountain bikes are meant to be fun and safe. Much of these are lost when buying cheap. If more expensive choices are not an option for the moment, choose bikes that you can continually upgrade later.

If you must skimp, skimp last on the frame.

Jump starting mountain biking as a hobby can be a bit scary for many individuals for one reason: they basically do not know where to start. Here, learn the basic things you need to know to get you started.

Bike and Gears
If you are starting off from scratch, you need to think of buying a bike first before anything else. I said “think” because not all bikes are the same.

When buying your first mountain bike, you have to identify the type of riding you will be doing most of the time as bikes are designed for specific style and terrain. To make matters simple, I suggest that you get an all-terrain hard tail mountain bike to start with (but you are free to choose from other types of bike depending on the riding surface you want to ride).

Then, there are gears. It’s a no-brainer that you must have a helmet whenever you go out for a ride. Not only because it protects your head from any possible injury you may sustain during a crash, but also because it is prohibited to ride without wearing one.

Consider buying at least 3 pairs of gloves so while you are wearing one pair, the other pair goes to the laundry while the third pair goes to your backpack as a reserve. Mountain biking shoes are great for comfort and good grip on the pedal. Sunglasses regulate and enhance the light and serve as a protection from harmful rays and other elements that can enter your eyes such as dust, small rocks and insects.

Tools
Every biker experiences getting flat and mechanical damage. Get a good set of tire repair kit including mini pump, patches, extra inner tube and glue. A multi-tool that includes wrenches will allow you to repair any mechanical damage of your bike. Broken chains can be a big problem while on the trail. Make sure to include chain tool in your arsenal.

Location. Location. Location.

Common conception is that mountain bikes can only be used on unpaved surfaces. The truth is you can use your mountain bike no matter where you are. So whether you are stuck in the city that offers everything other than nature or you have an access on a local bike or a mountain trail, you are good to ride.

Riding companion
There is nothing wrong with riding alone but you really have to consider joining a group of riders especially if you are planning to ride on remote places where there are no people around. A riding companion will come in handy in case you need medical assistance or simply experience a mechanical breakdown while on the trail. Also, experienced riders are good sources of valuable information on the best places to ride and how to ride safely and properly.

Safety Concerns
While mountain biking is a relatively safe sport, taking proper precautions are necessary. Aside from wearing a helmet and gloves, consider wearing padded shorts, elbow and knee pads. Keep your speed in check. Do not ride beyond your capabilities. Do not ride if you are uncomfortable with the terrain. Keep your physical fitness high. Take it slow; do not spend your energy on the first kilometer of the trail.

And most importantly, keep your energy high by drinking fluids and eating right before and during the ride.

Any seasoned biker would agree that physical preparation is important to keep you going on the trial. But no amount of exercise and training is enough if you do not ensure the condition of your bike. As your body needs to be prepared, your bike has to be fit for the trip as well.

Bike maintenance is divided into 3 basic frames:

Pre-trip check
Just like checking your motorized vehicle before you go for your long trip, checking your bike before you ride is a very critical pre-trip procedure. Your aim is to find and if necessary, repair parts of the bike that need immediate attention so that you minimize the risk of breakdown while on the trail. Check the tire threads and pressure. Make sure that the wheels are aligned and the seat is at the right angle. Check the quick-release levers. Clean the bike. Lube the necessary parts.

Post-trip check
Before throwing your bike into your car and drive home, turn the bike upside-down and remove mud, twigs and other foreign objects using damp cloth. Pop off and clean the wheels. The key is removing everything that can be an avenue for moisture to enter. (Rust starts on moist parts of the bike.)

Long-term repairs and storage
Assuming that your bike performed well while on the trip, do not hang it yet. Clean it thoroughly and check for parts that might be damaged during the trip. This is a good time to take parts of your bike apart to make sure that they are properly cleaned. (Make sure that you remember which part goes where. Do not take your bike apart if you don’t know how to put them back.) Check the suspension, inspect the brake pads, tighten the cables, and check the chains and gears. After the whole procedure, dry the entire bike off with a clean cloth.

If you are using your bike regularly (at least 2 times a week) it may get a share of wear and tear. Routinely check your bike before and after your ride to stop problems and fix them if necessary.

If your bike spends most of its time in the garage and only gets a taste of dirt once in a while, make sure that you follow these storage and maintenance procedures to keep it in tip-top shape:

Take the gadgets (GPS, lights, bells, speed meters, etc.) off your handle bar before storage. Designate a box for these gadgets or store it with all your bike tools.

Store your bike in a dry place. Moist can enter your bike and start rust build-up if it is wet in storage.

Hang your bikes with wheels off.

Check the inner tubes of the wheels for leaks. Use patches to seal the tubes.

Clean the chains, gears and brake discs. Make sure that they are dry before storage. Lube the chains at least once a month.

If you are going to use your bike, follow the pre-trip check before riding. You have invested so much on your mountain bike and other upgrades; the last thing you want is a useless, rusty and cranking bike.

A well-maintained bike not only prolongs its service, it also ensures your safety while on the trial. Keep your bike working properly by doing everything that is mentioned above.

Whether you are completely a nutter or simply want to feel the extra adrenaline rush that your 10 cups of coffee a day cannot give, hopping on the bike and become the modern-day night rider will certainly do the trick. So call your friend, wait until dark and put on your best costume because it will going to be one hell of a ride.

Go over your costume while you wait for the right time. Bright-colored shirt is good ? similar to the ones of your favorite cartoon character. If you do not have a television when you were a child or you do not watch any cartoons, I suggest that you choose yellow, red or orange shirt. If you have a reflector vest similar to the ones worn by your local traffic enforcer, then put that on top of your tops. Wear layers of shirt, long sleeve and jacket if necessary. Open your drawer and look for a thick pair of pajamas or leggings. Get a good pair of socks and wear your usual bike shoes. The last thing you need is to be fashionable so you can wear anything as long as you can bear the cold night (unless you want to catch the attention of female insects and small animals which are busy searching for food).

Go to your garage and get the duct tape, a pair of scissors, your flashlight and your helmet. You know the drill, right? Find your gloves, preferably newly washed. Sunblock not required.

After dinner, callback your friend and remind him or her that it is time. Do not invite your Cinderella friend if you don’t want to spoil the fun. Your best buddy who is as crazy as you will come in handy. Bring your backpack filled with tools kit and tire repair kit in case your bike breaks down along the way. Bring extra money and identification. Bring snack and liquid so that you keep your energy high and you can still go home.

Tell someone in your house where you are going. Don’t say you will go spelunking, no one will believe you ? besides, Batman wears black, you wear the colors of the traffic light.

I am not encouraging you to forget all the safety rules you have learned from your expert friend. All I am saying is that if you really want fun, then let loose and go out at night. Ride on the most familiar trail ? the one you always ride during the day ? so that you know every bend, curve and dip. Oh, make sure that it is nearest from your home just in case you forget the batteries of your flashlight.

Speaking of light, watch out for flat light. They are a bit hard to understand and may cause confusion in your brain. Also watch out for the gates. They are hard to spot and they spring out of nowhere. Cows can cause body pain. They are pretty big but just like gates, they are hard to spot and can spring out of nowhere.

There may be some “ohh”, “ahh”, “whow”, “ooops” and “ouch” along the way. But these are all part of the fun. After all, mountain biking at night is better than thinking how much fun you are missing while watching television.

Not because you hit a wall or crashed 20 feet down the cliff, it doesn’t mean that you can hang your bike in the garage and watch television all day. Mountain biking, in the first place, should be fun. And some accidents, while often humiliating or painful, are just part of the sport. You probably have several personal reasons to quit. Instead of entertaining these negative thoughts, why not ask yourself, why should I not quit? Here’s why?

Because some jerks expect you to quit
Your neighbors or probably even your friend will just roll their eyes if you tell them you have started mountain biking. They might say, “You are just wasting your time because you will quit anyway.” If stirring skepticism is all that you create, why not put it in a positive way. Whenever you feel like quitting, remember all these people who do not believe that you can stay on your bike. Prove them wrong.

It makes you feel good about yourself
You might have seen some changes in your body after just weeks of regular mountain biking. What more if you maintain it for several months?

When you ride, you burn lots of calories that should have turned into fat if you did not decide to get moving. Riding helps you keep in shape. And if you are in shape, you start to feel good about yourself, which can be reflected to the way you act, communicate and relate with others.

Also, you are often judged as a person through physical appearance. If you look good, many will think of you as trustworthy and smart. If you are fat, you may be labeled as dumb, lazy and untrustworthy. This is not morally right but it is true; and many studies have testified to it.

It makes you feel better when you bump to an old friend
Isn’t it nice to bump to an old friend from high school looking chiseled and fit? Isn’t it great to attend a reunion and become the center of talk because you have lost a lot of weight? Losing weight may be the reason why you started mountain biking, looking good is a bonus.

Mountain biking is fun
Fun can be defined in many ways. Being able to improve your endurance, breathe fresh air, challenge yourself, learn new skill, see new places, meet new people and stay in shape are some of those. Mountain biking allows you to enjoy them all at the same time.

The beach season
Can you still remember the last time you have taken your shirt off and put on a swimwear? Or, have you done it? Confidently? If you love the beach or planning to go to the beach this summer, wouldn’t it be nice if you can show off how good your body looks? Mountain biking, although it may not be able to give you those big muscles, will certainly keep those fats off and help achieve a trimmed body.

The opposite sex
For some strange reasons, human beings still posses some attitudes of animals even if we claim that we are the superior kind. We still have the idea that if we look good and look strong, we attract the opposite sex. But is it true. Good looking people get more attention; and you have to admit that you want to belong in this small, lucky group.

This aims to help you make an educated purchase that will lead you on the right mountain bike.

? Know what type of biking you want

This will set the standard of your bike as well as its price. Mountain bikes are not created equal. They are designed for a specific style and terrain. Your task is to determine which type of biking you will be doing most of the time. Are you going to ride on different terrains or smooth surface? Are you going to use your bike for serious off-roading or cross-country expedition? Knowing the answer to these questions will lead you to the bike you really need.

? What to look for…

Good bikes are comfortable, durable and feature-packed. While this may cost a lot, it is important to focus your find within these criteria. Comfort means everything. A bike with an adjustable seat and good suspension is a must. Durability is equally essential. Choose between aluminum and steel frame depending on the type of use. Features can add to the cost of the bike. You may want to choose which features are necessary. Again, “good” is always equated with price, at least for mountain bikes, so if your money doesn’t match with the bike that you want, identify what features you can give up.

? Set your Price

Most mountain bikes are expensive. In fact, there is virtually no limit to how much you can spend on your bike. But this should not be the reason to quit your desire to conquer the mountain. With the right knowledge of what you want your bike to be, choosing the right bike is made easier. Just remember that with price comes quality. An $800 bike for example has more components and is more durable than a $500 one. Here, price really matters but if you are a first-time buyer, I suggest that you get a basic bike and upgrade as necessary. This way, you will not waste your money just in case you decide to hang your bike. Conversely, buying a $2000 bike is not bad as long as you can afford it. After all, with price comes functionality and features. The point is, set your price according to your needs and how much you can afford.

? Find a good dealer

Finding a good dealer is as good as finding a good bike. Although you do your research, talking to a dealer’s representative can shed light on the things you want to clarify and things you still need to know about mountain bikes. Ask questions about the different types of bikes, its features, maintenance, maintenance cost and servicing. A good dealer is more than willing to assist you on these things.

? Look for a good deal

Nothing could be better than buying a bike that is worth more than its sticker price. If you want to get more than your money’s worth, do your homework. Find as much information as you can on different bikes. Read product reviews. This will take time but is worth every minute. Another sure way to get a good deal, or even the best deal, is to buy during fall and winter. Dealers are willing to slash off hundreds of dollars to the bike’s original price to dispose the last year’s stocks and give way to their new designs in summer.

Instinct (or impulse) may tell you to buy certain bike because it looks good or the price is reasonable but I suggest that you evaluate and decide out everything that what we have discussed.

Plan your trip
Safety begins in planning and right preparation. Learn as much information about the trail as you can; notarize local authorities, acquire advance weather forecast; check your bike; develop necessary biking skills; improve your endurance and strength; and prepare the necessary items for the trip. These are some of the things you must do before you set out on a mountain biking trip.

Watch out for change in weather.
Summer storms can happen instantly and they are often accompanied by high winds and heavy shower. If you are caught at the wrong place, you may be in big trouble. Stay away from lone trees or rocks during lightning storm. Get off ridges before the rain starts. Keep your team together. If you sense that the rain is coming, set up a makeshift shelter made from leaves and branches on high grounds.

Keep hydrated
Working your muscles for a prolonged period of time produces sweat. Make sure that you replace the lost body fluids by re-hydrating regularly. Smaller and frequent sips are better than gulping the whole content of your water bottle at once. Do not wait until you are thirsty, especially when riding on cold weather conditions. Cold weather suppresses thirst so follow similar hydration practice.

Water is still the best liquid to drink while biking. Energy drinks are also good. Do not substitute water with soda, coffee or caffeine tea. These fluids are proven to have diuretic effects.

Ride with a group
If you are riding alone, you are either suicidal or your life is just plain miserable. Okay, you are neither. Still, you should not be doing it in long biking trips. The importance of riding with a group cannot be stressed enough. A group makes riding fun and enjoyable. It is also your first line of defense in case you get into an accident while in the trail.

Bad things happen outdoors and help can be miles away. Make sure that there are people around you who can call for help in case you need immediate medical aid.

Ride properly
There is no better way to invite a disaster than by doing crazy things while on the trail. Never attempt to cross a cliff if you think you can’t do it. Do not cross a river if you know you can’t. Do not accelerate when approaching sharp curves and uneven terrain.

Always keep your speed in check. It will only take a split second of negligence for an accident to happen. Stay focus all the time. Walk and carry your bike if you can’t ride.

Travel Light

If there is any rule that applies to anything that involves outdoor adventure, this may be it. During mountain biking trips, it is not advisable to carry a large bag on your back. Not only it tires you fast, it also reduces your balance while riding. Bring the things that are only necessary for the trip such as first aid kit, tire repair kit, multi-tool kit, enough food and water, flashlight, matches and some clothes. Do not forget to bring a cellular phone or a satellite phone ? it is your saving grace in case something bad happens.

Give your complete itineraries to a friend or a family member.
On a piece of paper, write the names can contact numbers of each member of the group, the place where you are going and expected time of return. Give it to someone who will be left behind at home so that if you do not return as expected, they can contact authorities.

Entering a bike shop, it is very overwhelming for beginners to see a wide array of mountain biking products, each shouting, “buy me!” The question now is, “should you give in?” While many biking product are indeed necessary, there are some you can ride without or nice to have. Here is a list of necessary mountain biking accessories that you must have. Unmentioned ones are optional.

Helmet
Not only it is stupid not to wear one, most public parks and trails prohibit riding without a helmet. Buy it the moment you buy your bike. Many serious head injuries can be prevented by just wearing a helmet. Look for a helmet that provides better insulation; fits properly to your head; and with chin strap to secure it to your head.

Gloves
Gloves serve double purpose: to improve your grip on the handlebar and to protect your hand from cuts and bruises in case you crash. Since the natural tendency during crash is to stretch the arms to cushion the fall, the palms take the most beating. While I do not advice you to use your hands to protect your body from the fall, I will not recommend riding without it. You can choose between cutoff and full-fingered gloves, but I suggest full-fingered. Gloves are the second most important accessory you should have next to helmet.

Repair kit
There is nothing worse than having a breakdown in the middle of nowhere and you cannot do anything about it. Make sure that you put equal importance to repair kit as you can never tell when you will hit a major bump and blow your tire out or when will your chain break due to excessive metal stress. That said, your repair kit should include chain repair tool and tire repair tools such as patches, glue, portable pump with gauge and a spare inner tube. Also include multi-tool set with wrenches to repair mechanical damages.

Hydration system
Just like any other physical activity, mountain biking causes your body to heat up and sweat to keep your core temperature normal. As you sweat, you lose substantial amount of water, and even more if biking is extended for a longer period of time. To replace the water lost and avoid dehydration, you must drink fluid regularly. Water bottle is enough but if you can afford a hydration pack with bladder, it is much better.

Eye protection
Sunglasses are more than just a fashion statement. Glasses offer protection from dust, insects, wind and other foreign objects that can enter your eyes while mountain biking. Glasses also protect you from infrared radiation and ultra-violet rays and it can be used to filter or enhance lighting.

Clothes
The point of buying clothes especially made for biking is to provide enough protection and comfort while riding. But regular shirt and sweatpants are good enough.

Choosing among different brands of bike clothing can be difficult and expensive. Your task is to prioritize what to buy. I suggest that you invest on padded biking shorts first since you have shirts and jackets you can readily pull out from your closet.

Shoes
To add comfort while pedaling, specially-made bike shoes are available. Pick the right shoe that will fit to the terrain you will be riding in and will fit to the type of pedal your bike has.

The accessories are listed according to importance. If the combined cost of all these products goes beyond the budget you set, prioritize on buying the things from the top of the list down.