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Simple Mountain Biking Preparation

Mountain biking rest

Here are some easy steps for mountain biking preparation:

Get the basic mountain biking equipment. If you don't want to buy it (for example, if your child is still young and you aren't sure you'll be able to use the equipment enough to make it worth your while), there are many options for renting equipment (and even bikes). But you will need the following:

1. Helmet (which fits properly -- if you're not sure, have a professional take a look)

2. Gloves (even for small hands, these make it easier for them to grip the bars and help pad their hands if they go over bumps)

3. Water (they make Camelbacks and similar water holders for small riders, as well -- check out Performance Bike for good deals and information)

4. Knee and elbow pads (these are especially important once you start your kids on beginner trails which have rocks or tree roots -- they will protect other parts of them as they fall, as well as help the kids learn to fall on the padded parts so they won't break wrists)

5. Tools (these will usually be carried by the adult -- or someone who's more experienced in mountain biking)

6. Sunscreen/rain protection and gear

Once you have all the equipment, be sure that your tools include lubrication for the chains, cloths to wipe away grit and dirt, an air pump (and even extra tires or patches), a chain tool (to fix broken chains), and different sizes of small wrenches (to adjust seats, brakes, etc).

When Chris goes mountain biking, I call the first ten to fifteen minutes of his trip 'dinking' -- but really, it's an important time where he uses his tools to check the air pressure in his tires, to adjust his seat, to clean his chain, and to quickly run through all the moving parts and make sure they're working correctly. Mountain biking preparation takes thoroughness and a willingness to use a little extra time in the beginning to be sure riders are safe throughout.

When family mountain biking, be sure someone has tools, pump, rain gear, etc in their pack, as well. When you first begin this endeavor, you can make a checklist -- after a while, you won't need it, however. Chris has everything he needs in a small pocket which attaches under his bike seat; he also carries a bucket with the cloths, lube, and miscellaneous other supplies.

Mountain biking preparation paves the way for an enjoyable and safe family fun experience!

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