10 Useful Tips for Mountain Biking Beginners

Adjust your bike correctly.
When you get a new (or used) mountain bike, it's important to adjust it for your weight and height. Many new riders don't do this, but it can make a huge difference in comfort and confidence on the trails. Here are two settings to adjust before you head out:

• Suspension : The correct suspension setting depends on your weight. You will need a special pump to adjust the air pressure in the front and rear suspensions.
• Saddle height : A good saddle height means your knee is slightly bent when the pedal is lowest. A saddle that is too high or too low can lead to back or knee pain.

Keep your body relaxed and responsive.
Keeping your arms, shoulders, and knees relaxed will make your bike easier to maneuver. This will make your ride smoother, especially when descending or over obstacles.

Remember that speed is your friend.
Many beginners would brake too much, but speed can help you get over tricky sections of trail, like rocks, more easily and take turns with more confidence.

Shift gears early and frequently.
If you see a climb coming up, shift into a lower gear before tackling the slope. This will make the climb easier and avoid breaking the chain or derailleur. On descents, shift into a harder gear to avoid spinning your legs too fast.

Look where you want to go.
It may seem obvious, but it's crucial to always look where you want your bike to go. Looking straight ahead helps you steer your bike better. It also helps you manage your body better while staying relaxed.

Ride with more experienced people.
There's nothing better than riding with more experienced cyclists to improve your own level. You'll be able to observe their technique and learn tricks for handling your bike.

Learn how to do a track stand.
Track stand is a technique where you balance on the bike while stationary. This helps you better control the bike, especially in technical situations like steep climbs or tight turns.

Take control of your bike.
There are two ways to ride: passively, where you let the bike guide you, or actively, where you actively steer your bike. By using your suspension properly, you can absorb shocks and better control the bike.

Choose different trajectories.
To improve your skills, try changing your route on the trail, especially if you know it well. Aim to go over obstacles like rocks instead of going around them. This will help you become a better cyclist.

Watch mountain biking videos.
If you learn best by watching, mountain biking videos are a great way to discover new techniques and see how the pros ride. With practice, you'll be able to apply these techniques on the trail.