Extreme Mountain Biking is a sport where bikers ride their beasts in extreme situations enjoying every bit of adrenalin rush. Trial riding and street riding are urban games and are examples of such mountain biking. Extreme biking is an exclusive sport, which demands a lot of courage, patience and self- reliance.
During the past few years, nobody has heard so much about the mountain bikes. But presently, mountain biking is in vogue. Mountain bikes can be enjoyed on different terrains, with equal ease. Mountain bike riders use their bikes for various competitions and programs.
Extreme biking can be divided into five categories: Cross Country, Downhill, Free riding, Dirt Jumping, and Street Riding. The most popular terrains for mountain biking are rocky roads, gravel road and inhospitable tracks. But most of the mountain bike riders prefer to ride single tracks, that are narrow pathways, carved through fields or forests.
Downhill Races
Downhill races have typical staggered start to lower the chances of crashing. The bikers ride down the hill with a matchless speed. Many Downhill races are organized in ski slopes during the summer. Downhill races demand the ultimate skill from the riders, who can maneuver their bikes extremely well.
Bikes meant for downhill races are well fitted with front and rear suspension, large brakes and heavier frame tubing. These bikes should never be dragged up the hill. For this reason racers and riders of downhill make frequent use of trucks and ski hills to be transported at the top of the mountain. This extreme form of mountain race biking demands a great physiological challenge.
Dirt jumping mountain biking
Dirt jumping is more common with BMX experts. Dirt biking experts compete to exhibit the biggest, the amazing and the most astounding jumps in the air while they spin with their bikes doing flips and other stunts. You will gaze while the biker is busy taking the stunts in the air.
Bike trails
Another most extreme mountain bike riding is bike trails. This is a course of cycling action where you are made to navigate through unimaginable rough terrains without even letting your feet have the slightest ground contact. The riders performing bike trails should know how to balance their bikes on rails, boulders, posts, tree stumps and a variety of other dangerous obstacles.
Cross country races
This form of race usually covers 30 miles and it can be performed on several rough and rugged land surfaces. The cross-country racers start off together just as the participants of marathons do.
The other extreme varieties of mountain biking include park biking, urban biking and freeride biking.
Once you develop a passion for biking competitions you should at once start making arrangements with practice and get into the perfect shape. Remember, extreme mountain bike rides are not meant for beginners.
When you are prepared to take on with such rides, you should always stay alert while performing the stunts. You must also be careful about wearing helmets and pads because an inch of carelessness can make you suffer for the rest of your life.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
How To Train For USA Triathlon - Start With Sprint Triathlon Training
One of the greatest marvels in human experiences is the beginning of each adventure or misadventure. And with each time we begin, the experiences we've learned prove to be more beneficial than not starting at all. Each step of training must be regulated and done according to the typical (and standard) measures that must be used to avoid definite pitfalls.
On training for a USA triathlon, a beginner must secure to it that he had been active for quite several months before joining a competition. That way, his body is more or less conditioned to the rigidity of routines involved in the courses. After all, triathlon is not for the faint-hearted. One must literally have the discipline and endurance enough to keep him in the game.
For a start, beginners should first see their physician to gather data on the routine that must first be done. Current health statues is vital in initiating a training program for a triathlon. Of the three stages in a USA triathlon, the swim is the most intimidating aspect. Begin with your feet getting wet. Advance to longer distances after several months. (It takes a very slow process to build endurance remember?) Start with two or four laps and develop gradually until you can do continuous swimming of 400 to 600 meters.
Though you may have trained well, pool swimming is still different from open water swimming. It will require you to adapt and so take advantage of the training time to make yourself accustomed to crowded lake swimming.
Cycling takes up most of the race duration. Please allow considerable attention on training this aspect. The first move shall be the choosing of the bike. Professionals from bike shops can best help you in your choice. However, your personal preference must still be on top. Assure to it that your choice fits your cycling needs, body and allows comfortable rides. During training, it is important that you know the type of terrain that you will encounter. This will help dictate the course for which you will conduct your practice.
The run may be the easiest junction of the race. Nevertheless, it still requires the endurance and strength the above activities require. Practice also on the transition stages. These usually are the most challenging parts that will outdo the major parts.
Because injury is a normal part of the competition, it would be best for the trainee to avoid any circumstances that will lead towards such incidences. Practices like warming up and cooling down, gradual increase in distances and wearing of appropriate suits, clothes and accessories must have some place in your attention.
Our body, being a perfect engine is designed specifically for training or non-training. If you test its limits then you get what you expect- you become better. If you remain in the same pace over the duration of your training, the body will adopt to that pace. Therefore, you must never allow your body to get used to similar workouts. Put challenges into it.
Always do things that will help create an interesting training for you. Sometimes it is not fatigue that stops someone from training, it is the lack of reason to enjoy the activities. Device variations. Say take on a new train partner or train somewhere else other than your usual training grounds. This way, your motivation will be kept high.
Training for sprint triathlon is easier than with all other triathlon categories. Here is a sample sprint triathlon training schedule for you.
Swimming
For amateurs, an ideal distance to start sprint swimming is 400 meters. This is within range even for those with really poor swimming background. If you feel that swimming would give you troubles, give it much of the discipline and stay on waters longer. This usually takes the longest to master since it is nearly pure technical work.
If you want to simplify your training, it would be best to watch strong swimmers do their things and follow their techniques if you can. It is always good to stay with larger training groups since they can provide you with advises and tips on training. You can do solo swimming yet crowd swimming will prepare you with the real feel during the race.
Cycling
The bike part normally consumes the most time in a sprint triathlon. And this is actually when you can earn some rest since your body does not do much of the works. You can ride any bikes if you like so long as they provide you the ideal speed that you require plus the aerodynamics to help maximize each pedal cycle.
Run
These might be the simplest part for anyone has the natural ability to run. But to run good after an energy-draining swim and leg-tiring bike is a different story.
Everyone has his or her weak sport, one only needs to know where it is and work on it well. Never bargain on the thought that you are good at one part and trust on it. The miles you have earned in your forte wont do good if you'll lose them all in your second shot.
On training for a USA triathlon, a beginner must secure to it that he had been active for quite several months before joining a competition. That way, his body is more or less conditioned to the rigidity of routines involved in the courses. After all, triathlon is not for the faint-hearted. One must literally have the discipline and endurance enough to keep him in the game.
For a start, beginners should first see their physician to gather data on the routine that must first be done. Current health statues is vital in initiating a training program for a triathlon. Of the three stages in a USA triathlon, the swim is the most intimidating aspect. Begin with your feet getting wet. Advance to longer distances after several months. (It takes a very slow process to build endurance remember?) Start with two or four laps and develop gradually until you can do continuous swimming of 400 to 600 meters.
Though you may have trained well, pool swimming is still different from open water swimming. It will require you to adapt and so take advantage of the training time to make yourself accustomed to crowded lake swimming.
Cycling takes up most of the race duration. Please allow considerable attention on training this aspect. The first move shall be the choosing of the bike. Professionals from bike shops can best help you in your choice. However, your personal preference must still be on top. Assure to it that your choice fits your cycling needs, body and allows comfortable rides. During training, it is important that you know the type of terrain that you will encounter. This will help dictate the course for which you will conduct your practice.
The run may be the easiest junction of the race. Nevertheless, it still requires the endurance and strength the above activities require. Practice also on the transition stages. These usually are the most challenging parts that will outdo the major parts.
Because injury is a normal part of the competition, it would be best for the trainee to avoid any circumstances that will lead towards such incidences. Practices like warming up and cooling down, gradual increase in distances and wearing of appropriate suits, clothes and accessories must have some place in your attention.
Our body, being a perfect engine is designed specifically for training or non-training. If you test its limits then you get what you expect- you become better. If you remain in the same pace over the duration of your training, the body will adopt to that pace. Therefore, you must never allow your body to get used to similar workouts. Put challenges into it.
Always do things that will help create an interesting training for you. Sometimes it is not fatigue that stops someone from training, it is the lack of reason to enjoy the activities. Device variations. Say take on a new train partner or train somewhere else other than your usual training grounds. This way, your motivation will be kept high.
Training for sprint triathlon is easier than with all other triathlon categories. Here is a sample sprint triathlon training schedule for you.
Swimming
For amateurs, an ideal distance to start sprint swimming is 400 meters. This is within range even for those with really poor swimming background. If you feel that swimming would give you troubles, give it much of the discipline and stay on waters longer. This usually takes the longest to master since it is nearly pure technical work.
If you want to simplify your training, it would be best to watch strong swimmers do their things and follow their techniques if you can. It is always good to stay with larger training groups since they can provide you with advises and tips on training. You can do solo swimming yet crowd swimming will prepare you with the real feel during the race.
Cycling
The bike part normally consumes the most time in a sprint triathlon. And this is actually when you can earn some rest since your body does not do much of the works. You can ride any bikes if you like so long as they provide you the ideal speed that you require plus the aerodynamics to help maximize each pedal cycle.
Run
These might be the simplest part for anyone has the natural ability to run. But to run good after an energy-draining swim and leg-tiring bike is a different story.
Everyone has his or her weak sport, one only needs to know where it is and work on it well. Never bargain on the thought that you are good at one part and trust on it. The miles you have earned in your forte wont do good if you'll lose them all in your second shot.
Mountain Biking Is The King Of Biking Sports In Texas
Texas is a large wide-open state with a lot of exciting and beautiful spaces and places. There are a variety of terrains available, providing individuals who enjoy mountain biking numerous trails and roads to travel on for hundreds of miles. This variety also caters to the sport 's five different categories: cross country, downhill, freeride, dirt jump and trials/street riding
Cross-Country (XC) is the most common form of mountain biking. Participants ride point- to-point or in a loop that includes climbs and descents on a variety of terrains. However, there is a difference between common XC and XC racing, which is much more physically demanding than leisure riding. Racers train for years to be able to compete at a national level.
A typical XC bike weighs 22-28lbs, and has 0-4 inches of suspension travel front and rear.
Freeride/Big Hit Freeride is a "do anything" discipline which encompasses everything from downhill racing without the clock, to jumping, riding "North Shore" style (elevated trails made of interconnecting bridges and logs), and generally riding trails and/or stunts that require more skill and aggressive riding than XC.
Freeride bikes are generally heavier and have beefier suspensions than XC, but usually retain much of their climbing ability. The Freeride rider builds his or her bike to lean more toward a preferred level of aggressiveness. "Slopestyle" type riding is an increasingly popular style that combines big-air, stunt-ridden freeride with BMX style tricks. Slopestyle courses are usually constructed at already-established mountain bike parks, and include jumps, large drops, quarter-pipes, and other wooden obstacles.
Downhill biking is simple -- riding mountain bikes downhill. While XC riding has a downhill component, downhill (or DH for short) usually refers to racing-oriented downhill riding. Downhill racing bikes are equipped with a front and rear suspension, large brakes, and use heavier frame tubing than other mountain bikes. Downhill bikes aren't meant to be pedaled uphill, so downhill riders and racers frequently employ trucks or ski lifts to be shuttled to the top of the hill.
Downhill courses are the most physically demanding and dangerous venues for mountain biking. They include large jumps (up to and including 40 feet), drops of 10+ feet, and are generally rough and steep, top to bottom. To negotiate these obstacles at race speed, racers must possess a unique combination of total body strength, aerobic and anaerobic fitness, and mental control. Minimum body protection in a true downhill setting includes kneepads and a full-face helmet with goggles, although riders and racers commonly sport full-body suits to protect themselves.
Dirt jumping is the practice of riding bikes over shaped mounds of dirt or soil. The idea is that, after riding over the "take off," the rider will become momentarily airborne, and aim to land on the "landing." A mountain bike built for dirt jumping tends to have a smaller frame than one used for other disciplines. Running single speed is very common, as is using only a rear brake.
"Trials riding" consists of hopping and jumping bikes over obstacles. It can be performed either off-road or in an urban environment, and requires an excellent sense of balance. As with Dirt Jumping and BMX-style riding, emphasis is placed on style, originality and technique. There are many stylistic similarities to skateboarding. Trials bikes look almost nothing like mountain bikes. They use either 20", 24" or 26" wheels and have very small, low frames, some types without a saddle.
Inherent to the sport of mountain biking is the risk of injury. There are dozens of companies that manufacture protective gear, often referred to as "armor," to protect against injury from crashes, and mostly aimed at downhill, freeride and dirt jump riders. Armor ranges from simple knee and elbow pads to full-body padding. Some companies market full-body armor suits or jackets, that allow the rider to remove some of the padding and/or plastic plates that protect the rider 's arms. Most upper body protectors also include a spine protector that is comprised of plastic plates joined together, with foam padding underneath. Full-face helmets, often resembling motocross helmets (but usually considerably lighter and with more ventilation), are required by some bike parks, although advanced riders often wear these helmets by choice, in order to better protect their heads.
Unusual and physically demanding sports such as mountain biking can be a great way to exercise to maintain good health.
Cross-Country (XC) is the most common form of mountain biking. Participants ride point- to-point or in a loop that includes climbs and descents on a variety of terrains. However, there is a difference between common XC and XC racing, which is much more physically demanding than leisure riding. Racers train for years to be able to compete at a national level.
A typical XC bike weighs 22-28lbs, and has 0-4 inches of suspension travel front and rear.
Freeride/Big Hit Freeride is a "do anything" discipline which encompasses everything from downhill racing without the clock, to jumping, riding "North Shore" style (elevated trails made of interconnecting bridges and logs), and generally riding trails and/or stunts that require more skill and aggressive riding than XC.
Freeride bikes are generally heavier and have beefier suspensions than XC, but usually retain much of their climbing ability. The Freeride rider builds his or her bike to lean more toward a preferred level of aggressiveness. "Slopestyle" type riding is an increasingly popular style that combines big-air, stunt-ridden freeride with BMX style tricks. Slopestyle courses are usually constructed at already-established mountain bike parks, and include jumps, large drops, quarter-pipes, and other wooden obstacles.
Downhill biking is simple -- riding mountain bikes downhill. While XC riding has a downhill component, downhill (or DH for short) usually refers to racing-oriented downhill riding. Downhill racing bikes are equipped with a front and rear suspension, large brakes, and use heavier frame tubing than other mountain bikes. Downhill bikes aren't meant to be pedaled uphill, so downhill riders and racers frequently employ trucks or ski lifts to be shuttled to the top of the hill.
Downhill courses are the most physically demanding and dangerous venues for mountain biking. They include large jumps (up to and including 40 feet), drops of 10+ feet, and are generally rough and steep, top to bottom. To negotiate these obstacles at race speed, racers must possess a unique combination of total body strength, aerobic and anaerobic fitness, and mental control. Minimum body protection in a true downhill setting includes kneepads and a full-face helmet with goggles, although riders and racers commonly sport full-body suits to protect themselves.
Dirt jumping is the practice of riding bikes over shaped mounds of dirt or soil. The idea is that, after riding over the "take off," the rider will become momentarily airborne, and aim to land on the "landing." A mountain bike built for dirt jumping tends to have a smaller frame than one used for other disciplines. Running single speed is very common, as is using only a rear brake.
"Trials riding" consists of hopping and jumping bikes over obstacles. It can be performed either off-road or in an urban environment, and requires an excellent sense of balance. As with Dirt Jumping and BMX-style riding, emphasis is placed on style, originality and technique. There are many stylistic similarities to skateboarding. Trials bikes look almost nothing like mountain bikes. They use either 20", 24" or 26" wheels and have very small, low frames, some types without a saddle.
Inherent to the sport of mountain biking is the risk of injury. There are dozens of companies that manufacture protective gear, often referred to as "armor," to protect against injury from crashes, and mostly aimed at downhill, freeride and dirt jump riders. Armor ranges from simple knee and elbow pads to full-body padding. Some companies market full-body armor suits or jackets, that allow the rider to remove some of the padding and/or plastic plates that protect the rider 's arms. Most upper body protectors also include a spine protector that is comprised of plastic plates joined together, with foam padding underneath. Full-face helmets, often resembling motocross helmets (but usually considerably lighter and with more ventilation), are required by some bike parks, although advanced riders often wear these helmets by choice, in order to better protect their heads.
Unusual and physically demanding sports such as mountain biking can be a great way to exercise to maintain good health.
5 Important Tips For Motorcycle Maintenance For High Performance
Just imagine you're driving in the countryside and then suddenly your motorcycle breaks down & ruins your day. You may be thinking that u have checked everything and there should not be any problem right?
It is really important to do some checks if not regularly at least on some occasions when you are going for a long-drive or country side ride. So here are some tips on how to maintain your motorcycle so you don’t need to haul your ride for which you’ll be spending hundreds of dollars.
Fuel and Oil:
This is the most important thing, dispose of untreated gas older than 6 months rather than risk running it. Check your fuel line for damages due to weather or cracks etc. If you find any damages even minor replace it. Next thing is to check your fuel filter, make sure it is not clogged and looks clean and clear. If it is older then a year then it is better to replace it. Remember to turnoff the fuel tap when parking your motorcycle for longer duration, this prevents fuel from leaking out.
Make sure you regularly check and keep your oil level at its HIGH or MAX level. It is best to check your oil level on the bikes centre stand or when it is in a level position. An under filled oil level can be disastrous while too much oil over the limit may flood your air cleaner with oil. Regular oil and filter changes will keep your motorbike young and healthy.
Tires:
The most common motorcycle breakdown is for tire damage, so make sure you check if your tires are properly inflated. An under-inflated tire produces a lot of heat which will result in blow out. Keep a mini tire gauge with you and important thing “use it”. Second thing is to check for tread depth if it is 1-2mm then its time to replace your tires.
Brakes:
Really important not just for your ride but also for your safety. Change the brake fluids every year and your brakes will perform at their best. While changing brake fluids use only sealed one as brake fluids tends to absorb moisture. Also check the thickness of the brake pads and if it looks thin replace it. Otherwise if it goes down to metal, your brake disc may get damaged & ultimately result in unnecessary replacement fitting braided steel brake lines will also boost the performance of your brakes.
Chains:
Bike chains are never taut but must be able to sag between 3/4" to 1 1/4" at the mid-point between the two sprockets. The sag is used when the bike suspension moves up and down over uneven surfaces. Lubricate your bike chain with a chain spray. Ensure that you spray both left and the right hand side of the chain. Position a piece of newspaper so that you do not spoil the rear wheel rim as you spray. It is better to do this when you return from a ride and the chain is still warm. Use a second piece of paper on the floor to catch any drips. Wait five or ten minutes before you wipe all excess oil off the chain.
Battery
A battery requires a little monthly maintenance to perform perfectly. Check the fluid levels on each chamber of your battery, if you find any chamber low then fill it up in a well ventilated area with distilled or deionized water wear gloves and protective glasses while filling and Keep the battery charged to 100%. Check cables, case & clamps for any loose connections or damages, clean terminals & connectors and at last finish up by testing the battery with either a voltmeter or hydrometer.
It is really important to do some checks if not regularly at least on some occasions when you are going for a long-drive or country side ride. So here are some tips on how to maintain your motorcycle so you don’t need to haul your ride for which you’ll be spending hundreds of dollars.
Fuel and Oil:
This is the most important thing, dispose of untreated gas older than 6 months rather than risk running it. Check your fuel line for damages due to weather or cracks etc. If you find any damages even minor replace it. Next thing is to check your fuel filter, make sure it is not clogged and looks clean and clear. If it is older then a year then it is better to replace it. Remember to turnoff the fuel tap when parking your motorcycle for longer duration, this prevents fuel from leaking out.
Make sure you regularly check and keep your oil level at its HIGH or MAX level. It is best to check your oil level on the bikes centre stand or when it is in a level position. An under filled oil level can be disastrous while too much oil over the limit may flood your air cleaner with oil. Regular oil and filter changes will keep your motorbike young and healthy.
Tires:
The most common motorcycle breakdown is for tire damage, so make sure you check if your tires are properly inflated. An under-inflated tire produces a lot of heat which will result in blow out. Keep a mini tire gauge with you and important thing “use it”. Second thing is to check for tread depth if it is 1-2mm then its time to replace your tires.
Brakes:
Really important not just for your ride but also for your safety. Change the brake fluids every year and your brakes will perform at their best. While changing brake fluids use only sealed one as brake fluids tends to absorb moisture. Also check the thickness of the brake pads and if it looks thin replace it. Otherwise if it goes down to metal, your brake disc may get damaged & ultimately result in unnecessary replacement fitting braided steel brake lines will also boost the performance of your brakes.
Chains:
Bike chains are never taut but must be able to sag between 3/4" to 1 1/4" at the mid-point between the two sprockets. The sag is used when the bike suspension moves up and down over uneven surfaces. Lubricate your bike chain with a chain spray. Ensure that you spray both left and the right hand side of the chain. Position a piece of newspaper so that you do not spoil the rear wheel rim as you spray. It is better to do this when you return from a ride and the chain is still warm. Use a second piece of paper on the floor to catch any drips. Wait five or ten minutes before you wipe all excess oil off the chain.
Battery
A battery requires a little monthly maintenance to perform perfectly. Check the fluid levels on each chamber of your battery, if you find any chamber low then fill it up in a well ventilated area with distilled or deionized water wear gloves and protective glasses while filling and Keep the battery charged to 100%. Check cables, case & clamps for any loose connections or damages, clean terminals & connectors and at last finish up by testing the battery with either a voltmeter or hydrometer.
Mountain Bike Your Way Into Europe
Mountain biking by its very title would suggest it to be a sport that requires the use of a mountain. This is a sport that has gathered worldwide interest and a vast majority of its following originates from the UK: strangely a country that is not exactly known for its mountain ranges.
Devoted riders have painstakingly built tracks and trails in forests and woodland throughout England, Scotland and Wales, which has certainly boosted the sport 's awareness and accessibility - even to city dwellers who are never more that half an hour away from a manmade or natural track or trail.
But this seems a poor alternative, and still doesn't make up for the fact that UK riders are not often able to involve mountains in the pursuit of their passion.
However when some bright spark realised the potential of an otherwise redundant summer ski lift system in the French Alps, the sport has been taken to new levels. It has opened up a wealth of terrain that simply cannot be found anywhere inside the UK.
It has also attracted a new breed of rider; a rider who is not content with the uphill slog in order to get his or her highs on the downhill runs which define this sport with its 'adrenaline-junkie' status. Perhaps this is why over 400,000 bicycle orientated and mountain biking holidays were booked from the UK last year?
However ten years ago only one ski resort allowed bikers to carve up their beautiful French mountain side. This resort was Morzine and Les Gets, a low level ski resort which was hot off the mark to promote their summer industry, and today is still regarded as the jewel in the crown of potential destinations for mountain biking holidays.
But Morzine and Les Gets have gone about it in a clever way. They realise that the summer trade is not entirely made up of dirty great mountain bikers. They have created a resort that appeals to all, and the balance of holiday makers that ranges between families and active sports enthusiasts has allowed a very friendly and beautiful mountain town to flourish.
Many other resorts have now followed suit and offer a broader, more appealing holiday, which of course allows Mr Mountain Biker to find something to appeal to the family when he drags them all away in search of his annual mountain bike fix.
The most popular destinations for mountain biking holidays are Chamonix, Alpe D'huez, Tignes, Morzine and Les Gets. These resorts all offer a good range facilities for riding and an equally appealing level of activities for the non biker.
But riding the alps is not as straightforward a notion as one might think. It takes planning. If you want to gain a true insight into the potential of the mountain, then riders need to really make use of a local guide. Mechanic support and a full workshop facility with a steady supply of parts is also necessary to maintain the complexities of a modern day mountain bike.
Bikes being transported from the UK also require trailers and transfers to and from the foreign airport, and carriage on the plane is becoming ever more complicated with the greying of rules from the various budget airlines, as they strive to better their profits.
Furthermore, bikers require jet washing facilities and secure bike storage that stands up to insurance company small print. After all a bike can cost upwards of 3500 pounds, and obviously provides an easy and attractive picking to the well informed opportunist.
Fortunately however, the industry has spawned a handful of dedicated mountain bike tour operators who can provide all these extra necessities for a successful and hassle free mountain biking holiday.
Working professionals with limited time can book a package that will give them all the facilities required for their mountain biking fix, whilst offering the family an alternative fresh-feeling holiday in the mountains that stacks up very well against the relative stuffiness of that same old beach holiday; and certainly beats the b'Jesus out of pedalling up and down the local forest trail!
Devoted riders have painstakingly built tracks and trails in forests and woodland throughout England, Scotland and Wales, which has certainly boosted the sport 's awareness and accessibility - even to city dwellers who are never more that half an hour away from a manmade or natural track or trail.
But this seems a poor alternative, and still doesn't make up for the fact that UK riders are not often able to involve mountains in the pursuit of their passion.
However when some bright spark realised the potential of an otherwise redundant summer ski lift system in the French Alps, the sport has been taken to new levels. It has opened up a wealth of terrain that simply cannot be found anywhere inside the UK.
It has also attracted a new breed of rider; a rider who is not content with the uphill slog in order to get his or her highs on the downhill runs which define this sport with its 'adrenaline-junkie' status. Perhaps this is why over 400,000 bicycle orientated and mountain biking holidays were booked from the UK last year?
However ten years ago only one ski resort allowed bikers to carve up their beautiful French mountain side. This resort was Morzine and Les Gets, a low level ski resort which was hot off the mark to promote their summer industry, and today is still regarded as the jewel in the crown of potential destinations for mountain biking holidays.
But Morzine and Les Gets have gone about it in a clever way. They realise that the summer trade is not entirely made up of dirty great mountain bikers. They have created a resort that appeals to all, and the balance of holiday makers that ranges between families and active sports enthusiasts has allowed a very friendly and beautiful mountain town to flourish.
Many other resorts have now followed suit and offer a broader, more appealing holiday, which of course allows Mr Mountain Biker to find something to appeal to the family when he drags them all away in search of his annual mountain bike fix.
The most popular destinations for mountain biking holidays are Chamonix, Alpe D'huez, Tignes, Morzine and Les Gets. These resorts all offer a good range facilities for riding and an equally appealing level of activities for the non biker.
But riding the alps is not as straightforward a notion as one might think. It takes planning. If you want to gain a true insight into the potential of the mountain, then riders need to really make use of a local guide. Mechanic support and a full workshop facility with a steady supply of parts is also necessary to maintain the complexities of a modern day mountain bike.
Bikes being transported from the UK also require trailers and transfers to and from the foreign airport, and carriage on the plane is becoming ever more complicated with the greying of rules from the various budget airlines, as they strive to better their profits.
Furthermore, bikers require jet washing facilities and secure bike storage that stands up to insurance company small print. After all a bike can cost upwards of 3500 pounds, and obviously provides an easy and attractive picking to the well informed opportunist.
Fortunately however, the industry has spawned a handful of dedicated mountain bike tour operators who can provide all these extra necessities for a successful and hassle free mountain biking holiday.
Working professionals with limited time can book a package that will give them all the facilities required for their mountain biking fix, whilst offering the family an alternative fresh-feeling holiday in the mountains that stacks up very well against the relative stuffiness of that same old beach holiday; and certainly beats the b'Jesus out of pedalling up and down the local forest trail!
Mountain Biking in Whistler
Nestled between the Whistler and Blackcomb mountains, Whistler is one of the North America 's fantastic resort destinations, located about 75 miles north of Vancouver in Canada. Teeming with breathtaking vistas comprising snow-capped peaks, excellent terrains, enthralling waterfalls, lush green forests, dazzling lakes and rivers, Whistler is regarded as a year-round playground providing opportunities to enjoy a continuum of thrilling summer as well as winter activities.
Among many other activities such as heli tours, flightseeing, sightseeing, hiking, and ATV tours, mountain biking forms one of the most popular summer activities in Whistler. Mountain biking in Whistler is truly legendary. With hundreds of well-maintained mountain biking trails throughout the region, Whistler is considered a haven for mountain biking. In other words, Whistler boasts of some of the best biking trails on the planet. Further, a specialty is that Whistler has biking trails to cater every level of riders from novice to extreme pros.
Mountain biking in Whistler is categorized into three types: cross country biking, downhill biking, and valley trail biking. Cross country biking is primarily via old dense rainforests or may sometimes go right up to the bottom of a scintillating waterfall, or may sometimes even pass through an abandoned area.
One of the specialties of this type of biking is that it allows riders to be amid the wilderness, and is also considered a great way to explore the enchanting beauty of the region. A favorite sport in North America, Downhill mountain biking is perhaps the most popular among the mountain biking categories. An interesting feature of downhill mountain biking is that it enables the riders to easily ride up the mountain and that too without applying your own pedal power. Also, a specialty of this category of mountain biking is that you needn't have to be a veteran to enjoy it.
All of the Whistler 's valleys are well linked by an extensive paved valley trail system, which in turn forms a perfect base for valley trail riding. Valley trails join several valley lakes, apart from various parks in the valley. Since valley trails are primarily designed for non-motorized vehicles, it allows for a safe as well as fun mountain bike riding, along with your family and friends. Special bikes coupled with comfy seats are available to make your ride along the valley trails a pleasant as well as memorable experience.
Now we will discuss some of the top destinations for enjoying mountain biking in Whistler. From fantastic trail networks along the majestic Blackcomb Mountain and technical single track to the astounding valley trails as well as the trails along the dense forest in Whistler, all of Whistler 's biking trails and destinations are incredible.
Whistler Bike Park is regarded as one of the top spots for an enjoyable mountain biking. With more than 40 runs as well as more than 200 km of descending lift-serviced trails, this area is suitable for all types of riders. For example, if you are a novice, excellent options are available to ride along the banked trails via coastal forests.
For intermediates, such facilities as twisty single track are made available. Likewise, serious riders looking for challenges can choose trails running along the steep rock faces and root-strewn lines. In addition, all of the trails found here are well-maintained and patrolled, and render spectacular views of the surrounding lakes and valleys. Other specialties of the park are three access lifts such as Garbanzo Chairs, Whistler Gondola, and Fitzsimmons; two jump park areas; three skill centers for riders of all abilities like green circle, black diamond, and Blue Square; a fun-filled BikerCross; learning centers inclusive of ramps, practice obstacles, and teeter totters; and dirt trails along the canopied forests.
Another prominent biking trail in Whistler is the Lost Lake Park. Surrounded by a striking clear alpine lake, Lost Lake Park is a chain of well-linked trails, all of which are designed for a myriad of activities, such as, mountain biking and hiking during the summer and cross country skiing during winter. The centerpiece of the park is undoubtedly the lake, a dip in which after or before mountain biking is refreshing. A learning center, namely, Shaler 's Bike Land, is also attached to the park. Further, Lost Lake Park is within easy reach of almost all top-rated attractions as well as facilities of the region.
Above all, your mountain biking vacation would be incomplete without taking the Epic Ride, Comfortably Numb, which is a 26 km long ride that runs from Wedgemount to Lost Lake. In addition, the ride includes more than 4,000 feet of twisting and climbing switchbacks.
Almost all of the Whistler 's hotels and resorts render excellent packages to enjoy mountain biking. Mostly, included in the mountain biking packages are camps and clinics, guided tours, and private lessons. Many of them provide bikes on rental basis, while some even provide it for free. There are also shops exclusively for providing bikes on rental basis.
Among many other activities such as heli tours, flightseeing, sightseeing, hiking, and ATV tours, mountain biking forms one of the most popular summer activities in Whistler. Mountain biking in Whistler is truly legendary. With hundreds of well-maintained mountain biking trails throughout the region, Whistler is considered a haven for mountain biking. In other words, Whistler boasts of some of the best biking trails on the planet. Further, a specialty is that Whistler has biking trails to cater every level of riders from novice to extreme pros.
Mountain biking in Whistler is categorized into three types: cross country biking, downhill biking, and valley trail biking. Cross country biking is primarily via old dense rainforests or may sometimes go right up to the bottom of a scintillating waterfall, or may sometimes even pass through an abandoned area.
One of the specialties of this type of biking is that it allows riders to be amid the wilderness, and is also considered a great way to explore the enchanting beauty of the region. A favorite sport in North America, Downhill mountain biking is perhaps the most popular among the mountain biking categories. An interesting feature of downhill mountain biking is that it enables the riders to easily ride up the mountain and that too without applying your own pedal power. Also, a specialty of this category of mountain biking is that you needn't have to be a veteran to enjoy it.
All of the Whistler 's valleys are well linked by an extensive paved valley trail system, which in turn forms a perfect base for valley trail riding. Valley trails join several valley lakes, apart from various parks in the valley. Since valley trails are primarily designed for non-motorized vehicles, it allows for a safe as well as fun mountain bike riding, along with your family and friends. Special bikes coupled with comfy seats are available to make your ride along the valley trails a pleasant as well as memorable experience.
Now we will discuss some of the top destinations for enjoying mountain biking in Whistler. From fantastic trail networks along the majestic Blackcomb Mountain and technical single track to the astounding valley trails as well as the trails along the dense forest in Whistler, all of Whistler 's biking trails and destinations are incredible.
Whistler Bike Park is regarded as one of the top spots for an enjoyable mountain biking. With more than 40 runs as well as more than 200 km of descending lift-serviced trails, this area is suitable for all types of riders. For example, if you are a novice, excellent options are available to ride along the banked trails via coastal forests.
For intermediates, such facilities as twisty single track are made available. Likewise, serious riders looking for challenges can choose trails running along the steep rock faces and root-strewn lines. In addition, all of the trails found here are well-maintained and patrolled, and render spectacular views of the surrounding lakes and valleys. Other specialties of the park are three access lifts such as Garbanzo Chairs, Whistler Gondola, and Fitzsimmons; two jump park areas; three skill centers for riders of all abilities like green circle, black diamond, and Blue Square; a fun-filled BikerCross; learning centers inclusive of ramps, practice obstacles, and teeter totters; and dirt trails along the canopied forests.
Another prominent biking trail in Whistler is the Lost Lake Park. Surrounded by a striking clear alpine lake, Lost Lake Park is a chain of well-linked trails, all of which are designed for a myriad of activities, such as, mountain biking and hiking during the summer and cross country skiing during winter. The centerpiece of the park is undoubtedly the lake, a dip in which after or before mountain biking is refreshing. A learning center, namely, Shaler 's Bike Land, is also attached to the park. Further, Lost Lake Park is within easy reach of almost all top-rated attractions as well as facilities of the region.
Above all, your mountain biking vacation would be incomplete without taking the Epic Ride, Comfortably Numb, which is a 26 km long ride that runs from Wedgemount to Lost Lake. In addition, the ride includes more than 4,000 feet of twisting and climbing switchbacks.
Almost all of the Whistler 's hotels and resorts render excellent packages to enjoy mountain biking. Mostly, included in the mountain biking packages are camps and clinics, guided tours, and private lessons. Many of them provide bikes on rental basis, while some even provide it for free. There are also shops exclusively for providing bikes on rental basis.
Bikes Aren't Retro, They Seem To Be Timeless
When I was a kid there were few things more important to me than my bike, and there were few things I'd rather be doing than riding my bike. Just up the road from me was an empty dirt lot known as "the Jumps". All the kids in the neighborhood went to the Jumps to jump our bikes. The local streets and driveways were where we attempted the tricks we saw on TV and in freestyling magazines. This was when freestyling was just getting popular, before the modern era of X Games and multi-million dollar stunt riders. The names of pros were known only to the dedicated few who spent their allowances on freestyling and BMX magazines.
I remember there was an older kid a few blocks over who was the hero of all the younger kids. He just seemed cooler, ya know? And his bike was better than ours. He rode a Redline. Nobody else I knew had a Redline. Redlines were the ultimate bike in my mind. It was the brand legendary freestyler R.L. Osborn rode. That cool older kid a few blocks over had a Redline and he was the best rider I knew. Now that I think about it, though, I have no recollection of having actually seeing him ride. I just remember him sitting there on his gleaming Redline, just being cool. That 's what cool 's all about. Another bike company which was popular at the time was Haro. Haro had all the best riders like Ron Wilkerson and Dennis McCoy. Then there was Hutch. Know anyone who had a Hutch bike? Know anyone who still has one? It could be worth something because Hutch is no longer in business. Other popular brands when I was a kid were Mongoose, Diamondback, GT, Dyno, and CW. The fact that I can still list these brands at my age is a testament to the impact this period had on my life.
I'm talking about 80 's , that halcyon decade when BMX and freestyle riding was just getting big but it wasn't the huge deal that it is today. These days you can see riders on television hawking everything from deodorant to mobile phone companies to video games. Heck, a bunch of riders have video games named after them. Dave Mirra comes to mind when I think of such mega-popular ridres. Another superstar is Matt Hoffman. Hoffman has his own bike company. I remember when he was the young gun. Dennis McCoy, who I mentioned earlier, was another young up-and-comer who exploded on the scene, took over, and has since become one of the old guys. Time flies, doesn't it?
If you're interested in learning more about BMX and freestyle history, there are some excellent web sites which will jog your memory and take you back to the days when doing an "endo" was the coolest thing to do, when riding in circles in your neighbors driveway was a way to pass an afternoon. If you're in the market for a bike today, there 's also plenty of info online for that. Most of the companies I mentioned are still in business and continue to lead the market and sponsor the top riders. All of them have web sites providing more information on their history and their current product lines.
I remember there was an older kid a few blocks over who was the hero of all the younger kids. He just seemed cooler, ya know? And his bike was better than ours. He rode a Redline. Nobody else I knew had a Redline. Redlines were the ultimate bike in my mind. It was the brand legendary freestyler R.L. Osborn rode. That cool older kid a few blocks over had a Redline and he was the best rider I knew. Now that I think about it, though, I have no recollection of having actually seeing him ride. I just remember him sitting there on his gleaming Redline, just being cool. That 's what cool 's all about. Another bike company which was popular at the time was Haro. Haro had all the best riders like Ron Wilkerson and Dennis McCoy. Then there was Hutch. Know anyone who had a Hutch bike? Know anyone who still has one? It could be worth something because Hutch is no longer in business. Other popular brands when I was a kid were Mongoose, Diamondback, GT, Dyno, and CW. The fact that I can still list these brands at my age is a testament to the impact this period had on my life.
I'm talking about 80 's , that halcyon decade when BMX and freestyle riding was just getting big but it wasn't the huge deal that it is today. These days you can see riders on television hawking everything from deodorant to mobile phone companies to video games. Heck, a bunch of riders have video games named after them. Dave Mirra comes to mind when I think of such mega-popular ridres. Another superstar is Matt Hoffman. Hoffman has his own bike company. I remember when he was the young gun. Dennis McCoy, who I mentioned earlier, was another young up-and-comer who exploded on the scene, took over, and has since become one of the old guys. Time flies, doesn't it?
If you're interested in learning more about BMX and freestyle history, there are some excellent web sites which will jog your memory and take you back to the days when doing an "endo" was the coolest thing to do, when riding in circles in your neighbors driveway was a way to pass an afternoon. If you're in the market for a bike today, there 's also plenty of info online for that. Most of the companies I mentioned are still in business and continue to lead the market and sponsor the top riders. All of them have web sites providing more information on their history and their current product lines.
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