| Mountain bike racing is a demanding sport, as anyone | | | | race itself, as you will know how to handle your bike |
| who has attempted it will know. If youre thinking of | | | | depending on what conditions youll be up against. |
| trying it for the first time its important to make sure | | | | Just as you would give your car the once over |
| you are prepared for the demands it will put on you | | | | before setting out on a long journey, so you should |
| physically. This will ensure you are able to enjoy the | | | | also check your bike over to make sure its race |
| race without running the risk of injury. | | | | ready. Make sure the tyres are pumped up |
| If its been years since you have even ridden a bike, | | | | adequately and everything is well oiled for the best |
| you will need to get some practice in before you | | | | performance. Loose chains are a real hazard in |
| even think about going mountain bike racing. If you | | | | mountain bike racing, as they can easily get caught |
| dont, getting saddle sore on race day will be the | | | | on a loose branch or stick as you go flying along. Do |
| least of your problems. To begin with, a regular | | | | the best you can to ensure everything is in tip top |
| program of cycling will build up your fitness levels and | | | | condition. Be ready for whatever the weather may |
| strengthen your leg muscles. This is vital if you are | | | | throw at you during the race. Wear comfortable |
| going to stand the pace when mountain bike racing. | | | | sneakers and lightweight clothing that will dry easily if |
| Cycling on the road is an ideal way to begin to | | | | it should rain. As you gain experience you will find a |
| improve your fitness levels, but as soon as you can | | | | combination of clothing that suits you best. You may |
| you should venture off road to get used to the | | | | even want to invest in proper cycle clothing. Mountain |
| rougher terrain that is the key feature of mountain | | | | bike racing is a great way to spend a few hours and |
| bike racing. Experiment with gears and speed as you | | | | improve your fitness levels at the same time. |
| begin to gain confidence over the terrain, and try and | | | | Preparation is the key to having the best time, so |
| ride different areas during both wet and dry | | | | make sure youre ready for anything. |
| conditions. This will prepare you far better for the | | | | |