Mountain Biking and cycling are brilliant outdoor adventure activities that have captivated the hearts and energies of so many adventure seekers and many people who are now using a bicycle as an economical and green way to get to work. Generally, riding a bike isn't extremely dangerous, but this does depend on where you are riding! It is one thing to be on your bike in the countryside and another to be on rugged mountain terrain - just as riding in a village is different to riding in London! It is always smart to be cautious, attentive and to dress appropriately at all times just to be on the safe side.
Apart from nasty falls or perhaps being hit by a car if we are cycling on the road, these are generally the only way to become injured or hurt on a bike. Generally, if we are careful, it is only a question of taking certain precautions. For those just starting out, the following is some useful advice for those new to peddling.
Bicycle basics
The most common injury in both novice and advanced mountain bikers is in the perineum due to the fact that it rubs against the seat. To avoid this problem it is important that your seat is not too wide; however this is not such a worry for women. Cycling clothes should have additional protection in the area that rubs and another option or precaution is using a silicone seat cover if the journey is going to be long.
If you are going to be out on the mountain bike for extended periods of time, cycling can produce digestive disorders as the position in which you ride does not favor digestion. For this reason it is wise to wait two hours after eating before getting on your bike.
On any terrain for any distance, one should always use a helmet. This is of course an obvious tip, yet one that so many overlook. As unstylish or uncomfortable as they may be, it is a small detail that may very well save your life or prevent you from doing irreversible harm to your body. When looking for a helmet, it is one thing that you should not skimp on and it should be of good quality, strong and resistant.
When it comes to the handlebars, the cyclist should hold them firmly but without excessive force. To avoid blisters, slips and sore spots from where they rub, padded gloves are always a brilliant idea.
Another important detail when it comes to mountain bike gear is footwear. Specially designed shoes for cycling clip into the peddle and improve the cyclists peddling while avoiding suffering from pain in the arch of the foot.
Best cycling practice
The size of the bike (whatever type of bike it may be) should always be adjusted for the cyclist. The handlebars and seat should always be positioned (height-wise) correctly according to the cyclist's body in order to avoid injuries in the back, knees, arms or neck. The height of the seat should be adjusted so that the knees are only slightly flexed when the peddle is close the ground.
Last but not least, rules about riding your bike in traffic. A bicycle is a vehicle on the road and bikes should respect the rules just as drivers do. Cyclists should always circulate in the same direction as cars and use hand signals for turning. Speed limits should also always be respected, especially in areas such as school zones where drivers must slow down.
