If you want to start your adventure with the sport of mountain biking, there are a few things to make sure you do before you bite off more than you can chew. This sport is full of thrill, but it is not without risk.
Here are a few things you will want to practice, prepare, and test out. A nice beginner hill and some flat land is ideal for what you will be doing below.
First things first, test out your pedals. While you are riding around, practice removing and replacing each foot from your pedals. This is especially important if you have a toe clip or clipless style of pedal.
Second, you will want to make sure your seat is adjusted to the proper position, and that you are riding correctly. Adjust your seat so that your legs do not completely extend at the bottom of each revolution of the pedal. Your legs should extend at maximum 90 percent and at minimum 70 percent. Riding correctly involves having a relaxed body with your knees and elbows always bent and never locked. Elbows should be hardly bent.
Practice coasting on your bike. You should do this while standing on up on your peddles. Don't sit on your seat, and instead stand up and keep your knees and legs slightly bent. Move your bodyweight toward the back of the bike, which is where it would be while riding downhill.
Next to try is pedaling while standing. Stand up and practice pedalling in this position. This will feel different when pedaling in a higher gear and a lower gear, so practice this in different gears.
Since the ride down a hill on a bike isn't always smooth, the next thing to get the hand of is handling bumps. To do this, ride off of curbs first at a slow speed and then work your way to a higher speed until it feels like you have the hang of it.
These are very basic techniques to learn and practice. Once you master them, you'll be in better condition to start riding down trails. Just make sure you wear protective gear!
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