TOP FIVE TIPS: MOUNTAIN BIKING - with Jess Strange
If you’re thinking of getting into mountain biking but don't know how to get started... look no further! We caught up with Jess Strange aka @velomejess to find out her top five tips for getting started. Jess is an excellent MTB guide in our local Afan Valley and is one third of women's mountain biking collective Sisters of Send, who are definitely worth checking out! Peep Jess's top tips below:
HAVE A SUITABLE BIKE
Mountain biking can get a little rough so you need a bike which is built to withstand uneven terrain, technical obstacles and, ideally, have suspension to help absorb some of the bumps and imperfections of the trail.
THINK HELMET
I cannot stress enough the importance of having a suitable mountain bike helmet. Choose one which has sufficient protection around the head, fits well and has all the necessary UK safety certificates.
MAINTAIN YOUR KIT
Mountain biking is not the cheapest of sports, so take good care of your things. Cleaning and maintaining your bike will increase its lifespan tenfold. This also goes for your helmet and protection wear, check over all your equipment before every ride.
RIDE WITHIN YOUR LIMITS
It's so easy to get carried away with the fun of riding bikes, it truly makes you feel like a child again. But, it's important to know our limits and ride within them to reduce the risk of having an accident.
HAVE FUN!
Whether it's for fitness, freedom or friends, have fun riding your bike. Whatever the distance, the trail or company - you're out riding your bike, and that's pretty damn cool.
HAVE A SUITABLE BIKE
Mountain biking can get a little rough so you need a bike which is built to withstand uneven terrain, technical obstacles and, ideally, have suspension to help absorb some of the bumps and imperfections of the trail.
THINK HELMET
I cannot stress enough the importance of having a suitable mountain bike helmet. Choose one which has sufficient protection around the head, fits well and has all the necessary UK safety certificates.
MAINTAIN YOUR KIT
Mountain biking is not the cheapest of sports, so take good care of your things. Cleaning and maintaining your bike will increase its lifespan tenfold. This also goes for your helmet and protection wear, check over all your equipment before every ride.
RIDE WITHIN YOUR LIMITS
It's so easy to get carried away with the fun of riding bikes, it truly makes you feel like a child again. But, it's important to know our limits and ride within them to reduce the risk of having an accident.
HAVE FUN!
Whether it's for fitness, freedom or friends, have fun riding your bike. Whatever the distance, the trail or company - you're out riding your bike, and that's pretty damn cool.