Downhill biking
Since the Stone Age’s sport of people rolling down the mountain, which is by the way fictional and an utter underestimation of the intelligence of people back then, downhill biking is a sport that also utilizes the force of gravity. Downhill biking is a branch of mountain biking. In competitions or even at friendly races, the riders that descend from the mountain or hill will be timed and the one with the shortest time lapse wins.

Basics of Downhill biking:

  • – Before biking downhill, you should already be good at biking on a relatively flat surface.
  • – When braking, it is ideal to use the rear brake, only using the front break simultaneously with the rear brake.
  • – Do not tense your body, just relax to absorb better the shock from the rough tracks.
  • – Not to promote any biking accessory product, but buying the correct gear that is made specifically for downhill biking will help you perform better in the sport.
  • – Unless in a real emergency, do not suddenly grab the breaks but instead slowly press the brakes.

For more on Downhill biking, visit this website:

http://www.ehow.com/how_3309_mountain-bike-downhill.html

Cross Country
This sport is also another form of mountain biking which does not so much entail an almost impassable route such as in downhill biking. The average difficulty of the trails used in cross country biking gives even beginners of this sport a relatively smooth run, but poses a challenge none the less.

Basics of Cross Country Biking:

  • – Do not hesitate to stand up to help you balance well the bike especially in tight spots and note that standing up also help absorbs shock from pot holes or rocks well.
  • – Remember to keep your body at most times perpendicular to the ground.
  • – Cross country biking can be a team sport, and may even be better if your in a team. Therefore you should look for a club, there are plenty of biking clubs out there and if you do not find a club that fits you, why not start your own.

For more cross country biking information visit:

http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/web/site/BC/mtb/mtb_getting_started_xc.asp

Freeride Mountain Biking
Freeride Mountain Biking is a combination of both downhill biking and cross country biking. It is a newer kind of mountain biking that involves going up and going down a mountain trail. In addition, a freeride mountain biker will aim to conquer natural or man-made obstacles in the middle of the wilderness, attempt jumps and even from small cliffs. Freeride mountain biking requires the endurance of cross country biking and the innovation of downhill biking.

Basics of Freeride Mountain Biking:

  • – When cornering, you must be committed, focused and relaxed. This website – www.coachcarl.com/training_articles/cornering.htm has a whole article that explains in detail cornering.
  • – When riding on off-camber trails, it will be slippery as riding on moldy wet rock, concentrate on where you want to go.
  • – Learn to balance with your bike at different angles and tractions.
  • – Look ahead when riding, and do not focus on obstacles, instead look at where you will pass in order to evade or you will end up hitting it.

To learn more about mountain biking visit: mountainbike.about.com

This website has a plenty of mountain biking information that you can definitely make use of. There are articles about how to choose a bike that suits you and what you want to do. Ultimately, not only will you find assistance on assembling your own mountain bike here, but you will also get assistance in knowing the basics of the sport.


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