Get started with mountain biking: five key tips

Over hill and dale, over roots and through mud: mountain biking lets you explore the great outdoors, where you can enjoy secluded landscapes and speedy rides. If you want to start mountain biking, there are a few things to keep in mind. In this video, Janine reveals five important tips to make it easier for you to start mountain biking.

What is the best mountain bike for beginners?

Mountain bikes are available in two different types: hardtail and full suspension. A hardtail has front suspension at the fork, whereas full suspension mountain bikes also have suspension at the back. Hardtails are lighter, require less maintenance than full suspension mountain bikes and tend to be cheaper. However, the price depends heavily on the components it comes with. Hardtails are best suited for trails on meadows and in the woods. Full suspension mountain bikes cushion shocks better and therefore make riding more comfortable. The rear wheel also stays on the ground for longer in uneven terrain, giving you more grip and a safer ride.

Almost all modern bikes have a saddle that can be adjusted, called a dropper post. A low saddle is especially useful for the descent because you are usually standing and it means that the saddle is not in your way. This ensures more flow and better safety.

There isn’t one right bike for beginners. It depends on the trails you want to ride. So ask yourself what kind of surfaces you want to ride on, and what kind of obstacles these present, and then decide which bike is best for you. Tip: if you’re new to cycling, it’s worth renting or borrowing a bike before you buy it. Then you’ll know what kind of bike suits you best.

Basic cycling technique

To keep you safe on your mountain bike when you are out on the trails, pay particular attention to your posture. Especially when standing to ride over obstacles, you should be centred above the bottom bracket. This means that you keep the pedals horizontal and distribute your weight evenly between your front and back legs. This means that weight is distributed across both wheels, and that they will have a good grip. Your arms and legs should be slightly bent. With this posture, you can cushion obstacles well and react quickly. Always use the rear and the front brakes at the same time.

It’s best to practice going round corners slowly. The better you get, the faster you can ride them. In any case, it helps to keep an eye on what’s coming up ahead while riding.

But there’s even more to riding technique, including choosing lines and how to handle obstacles. You can find out more here:

Caring for your mountain bike properly

Remove the dirt and mud from the bike after each ride. This is best done with a garden hose or a bucket of water. You can use it to rinse off most of the dirt and use a cloth or soft brush for any finishing touches. You should not use a high-pressure cleaner, as the pressure is too strong and could damage components. You also need to clean the chain, preferably with a chain cleaner. Then oil or wax the chain. Before the next tour, all you have to do is check the tyre pressure and you are ready to go.