Tips & Techniques You Wish You Knew for Your First Mountain Bike Ride
We all started there! It's your first ride. You’re focused on intaking as much information as possible, but there are just some things people may not tell you or you may not know to ask.
This is the quick list of things you wish you knew before your first mountain bike ride so you can be more prepared for your next ride. If you’re just getting started, hey, maybe there are still a few tips you may not know. From adjusting your bike and understanding trail etiquette to gearing up with safety gear and mastering group riding dynamics, this summary offers the essential tips to help new riders feel confident and prepared for their inaugural mountain biking adventure.
Tips & Techniques to Know:
Bike Fit and Adjustments: Check that your bike is properly fitted to your body. Adjust the seat height, learn the dropper post mechanism, and suspension settings to optimize comfort and performance. Open the shock if you have a full-suspension bike.
Stand Up! Stand up out of your saddle when descending and for more power when climbing. Do not stay seated while riding downhill–you need to have bike-body separation to keep you balanced. Stay centered and keep your elbows and knees slightly bent for shock absorption and better control.
Braking Technique: Avoid slamming the brakes, as it can cause you to lose control. Instead, use gentle, controlled braking. Feathering is a great technique where you slowly apply the breaks in waves, vs all at once.
Rear Brake Love: Focus on using your rear brake when going downhill for small and large speed checks. The front brake controls your front wheel, so if you were to grab only the front brake quickly, this greatly increases your chances of going OTB (over the bars). So use both, or favor the rear brake, ladies!
Shifting: Smooth shifting is the best shifting. Anticipate changes in terrain and shift before features while pedaling to maintain a comfortable cadence. Practice shifting while climbing to see how it feels on your bike to be in different gears.
Trail Etiquette: Always respect where you ride and stay on designated trails. Here are some additional rules of the trail to remember:
- Yield to hikers, horses, and uphill MTB traffic
- Announce your presence when passing on the right or left.
- When riding with others and passing, announce how many are with you, “2 back” or “I’m the last one”
- Do not come up quickly and grab breaks and skid near hikers or horses.
- Respect trail closures and restrictions.
- Never ride around puddles, that widens the trail.
- Stay off muddy trails - that ruins trails
- Don’t make alternative lines or take shortcuts
- Practice Leave No Trace principles.
Hydration and Nutrition: Stay hydrated and fuel your body with proper nutrition before, during, and after your ride. Bring enough water and snacks to keep your energy levels up. Bonking (muscles out of fuel) is possible if you’re working hard over time and not fueling your body. If you’re going for a long ride it’s a good idea to take a snack break, even if you may not be hungry.
Pro tip: Drink lots of water and eat before your ride to make sure your body is ready to work!
Safety Gear: Always wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, gloves, and eye protection. Consider additional protective gear like knee and elbow pads, especially when riding challenging terrain.
Group Riding Dynamics: If riding in a group, understand group riding dynamics, such as communication, signaling obstacles, and regrouping points. While getting ready at the trailhead, talk about your ride pace, set milestones to meet up, or pair up with a riding buddy based on skill level.
Start Slow: Pace yourself and start with easy trails. Don't feel pressured to tackle difficult terrain right away. Be mindful of what it feels like for your body to climb and descend and use muscles you may have not used recently!
Expectations: This is YOUR ride, babe. Be kind to yourself and don’t compare yourself to other riders. Focus on taking in new experiences and remember you’ll learn more and be stronger after every ride!
Your first mountain bike ride can throw a lot at you. If you’re a new rider, use this list to better prepared to enjoy your ride and set yourself up for success on the trails.
Happy first-time trails, babe! XOX.
