How to Be Safe Mountain Biking
- 1). Wear a helmet. This is the number one rule of mountain biking. Before you hit a trail or park, be sure to purchase a helmet and wear it every time. If you plan to do more intense forms of mountain biking like freeride or downhill, consider a full face helmet.
- 2). Wear gloves. Any long, strenuous ride demands the use of mountain biking gloves. Gloves not only give you a better grip, but also protect your hands from serious wear and blistering.
- 3). Consider other equipment. If you intend to freeride or hit any sizable jumps, cliffs or obstacles, consider wearing body armor. Armor will protect nearly every part of your body that's exposed to danger including, chest, arms, shins and neck.
- 4). Always carry appropriate tools such as spare tubes, patch kit, pump, chain tool and spoke wrench. This is especially important if you intend to take a longer ride where you'll be far into the wilderness.
- 5). Bring enough food and water based on the distance/time you will be mountain biking. Pack hydration packs, water bottles and energy bars/food to make sure that you stay hydrated and energized throughout your ride. This is particularly important in very hot weather.
- 6). Bring first aid supplies in case of an incident. Basic supplies like bandages, gauze and tape could prove important.
- 7). Mountain bike with someone else. Having a riding buddy along could prove very valuable should you injure yourself or should your bike break. If you don't have anyone to ride with on a particular day, be sure that someone knows your whereabouts.
- 8). Always follow trail rules. Do not ride on closed trails. Yield to pedestrians, horses and other mountain bikers coming uphill while you're going down. Stay in control and slow down on blind curves and hills.
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