Mountain biking is an exhilirating sport that challenges your skills and pushes your limits. The right gear is crucial to the sport, whether you're a seasoned pro to a beginning rider. In this guide, we'll look at 10 essential gear you should own to keep your ride smooth and safe.
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| Image from MTB Worldwide (https://www.mountainbikeworldwide.com/) |
1: Helmet
All mountain bikers must own a helmet. Its the most important part of protection, as it's protecting the most important part of your body. The type of helmet may vary depending on your riding style. A full face helmet is never a bad idea however, as it protects your teeth too.
2: Gloves
A pair of gloves is the next essential piece of mountain biking gear. In case of a fall, gloves protect your hands. Gloves also help keep a solid grip on the handlebars and help prevent blisters.
3. Eye Protection
There are many different forms of eye protection, but its important to wear some. Eye protection can range from tinted googles to clear glasses. Goggles help keep them secured to your face and helmet, as well as protecting the sides. Whichever you chose, be sure to wear them. Not only will they prevent objects such as dust or rocks getting in or hurting your eye, but it will also reduce the glare of the sun.
4. Hydration
Water is essential to mountain biking, and to daily life in general. Hydration mainly comes in two forms: water bottles and hydration bladders such as CamelBacks. Water bottles are a great option if you don't want to carry anything on your back, but certain bikes may not be able to hold a water bottle holder.
5. Multi-Tool
Multi-tools are a must-have when riding, especially when riding alone. If anything were to happen to your bike and you didn't have a multi-tool, you're in for a long hike back. Multi-tools can help adjust or fix anything, such as loose screws or crooked handlebars.
6. Spare Tubes
Another item that deals with bike problems, spare tubes help keep your ride going even if you get a flat. Always be sure to carry an extra tubes on each ride, and replace them after each flat.
7. Knee Pads
Another protection item, knee pads are essential to keeping your knees and legs safe. They have helped me so much and are one of the best pieces of protection in my opinion.
8. Bike Pump
Any bike pump will work as long as it puts air in your tires. Nicer pumps have a PSI gauge that helps riders determine the pressure. Always keep a pump either in your backpack or in your car.
9. Lights
This is an essential if you want to bike at night. Get a good, strong light that can illuminate the trail in front of you to ensure the safest ride possible.
10. Apparel
Good biking clothes are a must have. They should be lightweight and breathable, but still tough at the same time. In the winter or colder months, a rain jacket or sweatshirt is nice to have, as well as pants.
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