Mountain Biking

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Mountain biking comes into its own in May as trails dry out from spring mud — a land-based counterpart to a water-heavy month.

REC Safe Mountain Biking

Our R.E.C. Tenets, applied on the trail:

  • R — Ready
    helmet, bike check
  • E — Equipped
    repair kit
  • C — Courteous
    yield to hikers/horses

Top 10 Mountain Biking Safety Tips

  1. Wear a properly fitted helmet, every ride, no exceptions.
  2. Check your bike before you ride — brakes, tire pressure, chain, and quick-releases.
  3. Ride trails that match your skill level. Know the difficulty rating system before you commit.
  4. Carry a repair kit. Flats and chain issues happen far from the trailhead.
  5. Wear gloves and eye protection. Debris and branches are a real hazard at speed.
  6. Control your speed on descents and blind corners. Assume other trail users are just ahead.
  7. Know local trail etiquette. Bikes typically yield to hikers and horses.
  8. Carry more water than you think, especially on exposed or high-heat trails.
  9. Ride with a buddy or tell someone your route on remote trails.
  10. Know basic first aid. Fractures and road rash are common enough to prepare for.

Recommended Items to Bring

  • Helmet
  • Gloves
  • Eye protection
  • Repair kit (tube, tire levers, mini-pump, multi-tool)
  • Hydration pack or water bottles
  • First aid kit
  • Padded shorts
  • Phone or communicator
  • Sunscreen
  • Trail map or GPS app

See also: Top 10 Boating Safety Tips and Forest terrain.