11 Common Beginner Mountain Bike Mistakes
If you’re new to mountain biking, you probably make these beginner mountain bike mistakes. But you’re not alone. This is common to beginner bikers.
Here’s a list of common mistakes beginner bikers make so you can avoid them.
1- Not Choosing the Right Bike
When buying a mountain bike, you should choose a mountain bike that’s right for you.
It should be the kind of bike that’s appropriate for the trail you’re riding. And it should be right for your size.
Otherwise, you’ll struggle instead of enjoying your ride.
2 – Not Wearing a Helmet
Helmets prevent about 70% of serious head injuries. Never ride without one.
3 – Not Dressing for the Ride
Investing in bike specific clothes is worth every cent. Wearing the right clothes ensures you can enjoy your ride and be safe.
They allow you to move more freely. And they prevent rubbing sores and bump sores.
Another factor to consider when dressing for your ride is knowing the weather in that location. So you’ll know if you need to dress warm, protect yourself from heat, or prepare for rain.
4 – Wrong Position of Feet on the Pedal
Don’t make the mistake of stepping on the pedals with your toes only.Position the ball of your feet in front of the pedal axle.
Biking with the wrong footing can cause unnecessary stress on your leg muscles.
5 – Not Looking Ahead in the Trail
This is extremely important if you’re riding in an unfamiliar trail. You shouldn’t only watch where you’re going, but rather look ahead especially if you’re going fast.
You should anticipate the path in front of you.
6 – Holding the Handlebars Too Tight
Yes, it’s important to ‘hold tight’ when you’re riding but don’t grip the handlebars too tight that your hands become sore.
7 – Sitting for a Long Time
Your legs are the best shock absorbers. When the terrain gets rocky, count on your legs to handle the rough ride. Standing allows you to better manage your bike and it will save your bottom from getting hurt.
8 – Riding Through Water
It’s tempting to ride through a stream. But getting your bike wet this way can damage your bike. It speeds up rust and corrosion.
The better thing to do when you see a stream is to carry your bike instead of riding through it.
9 – Not Bringing Essentials When You Ride
When you go riding, it’s important you have with you necessities such as a hydration pack, food/protein bars, a first aid kit, a spare tube, a mini pump, etc…
10 – Not Cleaning The Bike After the Ride
Accumulated dirt and grime when left for long cause a lot of damage on your bike.
When you get home after a long ride, clean your bike thoroughly – including the chain.
To be sure that you’re doing it right, research on ways to clean your mountain bike like a pro.
11 – Getting Discouraged Easily
If mountain bike riding turns out to be harder than you expected, don’t be discouraged.
There are many things to learn about mountain bike riding from riding different trails, braking, and even maintaining your bike the right way.