Bike Accessories Archives - Mountain Bikerz Learn Mountain Biking Tue, 14 Nov 2023 12:04:09 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.5.2 https://mountainbikerz.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/cropped-mountain-bikerz-high-resolution-logo-9779750-6048424-32x32.png Bike Accessories Archives - Mountain Bikerz 32 32 Ergon BC2 Backpack Review https://mountainbikerz.com/ergon-bc2-backpack-review/ https://mountainbikerz.com/ergon-bc2-backpack-review/#respond Tue, 14 Nov 2023 12:04:09 +0000 https://mountainbikerz.com/2023/11/14/ergon-bc2-backpack-review/ Ergon BC2 is a product of innovation and their typical tendency towards perfectionism. The all-round bike daypack with the same suspension system and frame as BC1. Many features, small pockets outside, chest strap, 2 compression straps, organizer pocket, external hydration system pocket, rain cover, water-repellent zips etc. make this backpack completely premium. The most practical Expando function provides an ... Read more

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Ergon BC2 is a product of innovation and their typical tendency towards perfectionism. The all-round bike daypack with the same suspension system and frame as BC1. Many features, small pockets outside, chest strap, 2 compression straps, organizer pocket, external hydration system pocket, rain cover, water-repellent zips etc. make this backpack completely premium. The most practical Expando function provides an additional 4 liters.

The BC2 is available in two color variants: Solid black or black/green. In order to cover as wide a range of back lengths, BC2 comes in two sizes, which in turn again have three suspension positions the shoulder belt. The packing volume is road worthy – 16 liters that can be expanded to an extra 4 liters. The empty weight of BC2 was 1390 g.

When you hold BC2 in your hands you notice its tremendously high-quality finish. All seams are worked and all internal seams are additionally enclosed, no loose ends far and wide and high-quality materials and waterproof zippers leave nothing to be desired.

Carrying System

The heart of the very innovative backpack is the “Backpack Motion” frame carrying system. The idea is to transfer as much load from the shoulders to the hips and give the torso maximum freedom of movement. So the backpack has a plastic exoskeleton that is rigidly connected to the wide and very comfortable padded hip belt. To achieve the optimum freedom of movement of the upper body, the shoulder carrying system is decoupled from the Flink ball joint from the actual carrying case.

The best thing about this – it works. No other bike pack can transfer the load so effectively to the hips. For excursions or trips BC2 is comfortable like no other. Just awesome!

To function properly, the hip and chest strap must be closed, otherwise the backpack might slip when driving uncontrollably. Both are asymmetrically designed so that the buckle is fixed to hip and shoulder so it can be opened and closed with one hand.

The lower suspension of the shoulder straps is set high by the separate shoulder part. This creates an initially unfamiliar feel like the classic underarm vents some jackets have. When it comes to ventilation, one can expect miracles from BC2.

Loading and Order

The bag is actually a split by a nylon main compartment. The front, primary section is not further subdivided but a two-way zipper is pulled down to the bottom third of very good section. For the transport of sensitive items such as glasses or valuables there are no separate compartments. In addition, the forward compartment may be further extended by 4l.

The rear compartment is only accessible from the top via a 20 cm long zipper and although it could also take regular load, we used it almost exclusively for hydration. The drinking tube can be taken out on both sides of the bag and are properly guided by hose clips on one of the shoulder straps.

We also found the card slot with the slightly laterally offset long zipper. In it were both cards, as well as other small items that should be readily accessible away. However, here smaller individual compartments for better organization would have been useful.

We found the exterior pocket on the right hip. It provides space for just about anything you want to have at hand – mobile, energy bar, keys, or in our case the compact camera. This zip-secured compartment is accessible without removing the backpack, but not close-able with one hand. A slightly modified suspension could resolve this problem.

Initially completely nonsensical, back cushion over the entire width has two short side zips that are externally accessible. Unfortunately, they are not loadable because of direct contact to the back. However, you can store soft things like a rain cover.

In the helmet attachment of BC2, Ergon is more traditional in its ways. The two transverse compression straps used for lashing the helmet – for the short ascent is the chin strap hung easily and the helmet dangles loose or the straps get through the vent. After several attempts, we have our helmet usually tucked in by having unfolded the additional volume and used it. So the helmet remained protected, was very well secured and the external weight remained low.

The included rain cover can be attached all around very well.

Conclusion

Now, as already mentioned at the carrying system, the distribution on the hip works terrific, as is the freedom of movement of the upper body. Even fully loaded (ERGON recommends a maximum of 6 kg), the ERGON BC 2 feels inconspicuous like no other.

Only the stability of the backpack when fully loaded is not optimal. The Flink ball joint and the narrow but sprawling construction of BC2 ensures that the above mass is insufficient to stabilize. With fast movements, we felt a slight lurch. The expandable-outwards additional volume increases the effect even more. With a light load or the heavier things low down, it was hardly felt.

A highly functional and comfortable touring bike pack and Enduro pack. The complicated support system is heavy but with heavy loads gives immense amount of relief for the shoulders and combines this with unreal freedom of movement of the upper body. In our opinion, it lacks compartmentalization and internal order of the BC2 is nevertheless the most sophisticated.

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Can You Put Pegs on a Mountain Bike https://mountainbikerz.com/can-you-put-pegs-on-a-mountain-bike/ https://mountainbikerz.com/can-you-put-pegs-on-a-mountain-bike/#respond Fri, 03 Nov 2023 07:07:40 +0000 https://mountainbikerz.com/can-you-put-pegs-on-a-mountain-bike/ Mountain bikes have seen a surge in popularity in recent years as more people discover the joys of riding on unpaved trails and rough terrain. As riders push the limits of what their mountain bikes can do, some have started exploring modifications like adding pegs. But is putting pegs on a mountain bike advisable or ... Read more

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Mountain bikes have seen a surge in popularity in recent years as more people discover the joys of riding on unpaved trails and rough terrain. As riders push the limits of what their mountain bikes can do, some have started exploring modifications like adding pegs. But is putting pegs on a mountain bike advisable or even possible? This article will explore the ins and outs of adding pegs to a mountain bike.

What are Pegs?

Pegs are small tubes of metal that protrude horizontally from each side of the wheel axles on a bike. They were originally designed to allow BMX and stunt bikes to perform aerial tricks by giving the rider’s feet something to stand on midair. Here are some key things to know about pegs:

  • Made of strong, durable metals like steel or aluminum
  • Come in various lengths, usually 2 to 3.5 inches
  • Attach to the bike’s front and/or rear wheel axles
  • Allow stunt bike riders to stand on them for tricks
  • Also used on cruiser bikes for carrying passengers or cargo

Can You Technically Put Them on a Mountain Bike?

Strictly speaking, there is nothing stopping you from attaching pegs to the axles of a mountain bike if the axle is long enough to accommodate them. So technically, yes you can put pegs on a mountain bike. But just because you can do something does not necessarily mean you should.

Factors to Consider Before Adding Pegs

While it may be tempting to bolt some pegs onto your trusted mountain bike to expand what you can do with it, there are a few important factors to consider first:

  1. Intended Use: Mountain bikes are designed for riding off-road trails and absorbing impacts from bumps. Pegs are meant for stunt tricks on smooth surfaces. Trying to use pegs on rugged mountain bike trails is unlikely to end well.
  2. Weight Capacity: Most mountain bikes have a total rider and cargo weight capacity around 300-400 lbs. Pegs allow you to carry more weight but could exceed the bike’s limits. Too much weight can damage the frame or wheels.
  3. Suspension and Stability Issues: The suspension systems on mountain bikes are optimized for absorbing shock from the ground without too much sideways motion. Adding pegs can restrict suspension movement and decrease stability on bumpy trails.
  4. Safety Concerns: Riding mountain bike trails requires skill and concentration to navigate obstacles and avoid accidents. Pegs introduce more opportunities for feet to slip off causing crashes. They also reduce ground clearance.

Why Pegs Don’t Belong on Mountain Bikes

While you can install pegs onto a mountain bike frame, doing so goes against the intended design and purpose of these rugged outdoor bikes. The cons outweighed the pros when pegs meet mountain bikes:

  • Not safe for rugged trail and downhill riding
  • Too much added weight for mountain bike components
  • Restrict needed suspension system movement
  • Reduce ground clearance and increase crash risks

The bottom line is that pegs are really only suitable for stunting on smooth surfaces, not mountain biking terrain. You are better off leaving them off your mountain bike. But if you insist, take extreme caution.

Alternative Options to Carry Gear/Passengers

If your goal with adding pegs was to increase your mountain bike’s cargo capacity, there are some safer specialized alternatives:

  • Front/Rear Racks – Allow panniers and gear to be mounted above the wheels
  • Trailer Hitches – Allow a cargo trailer to be towed behind the bike
  • Child Trailer Seats – Secure seats can allow kids to ride along
  • Saddlebags – Bags mount behind the seat for extra storage

While not as sturdy, these alternatives provide safer ways to haul more gear and people on your mountain biking adventures.

Conclusion

At the end of the day, pegs are not designed for mountain bikes. The risks outweigh any perceived benefits. For stunting and aerial tricks, a BMX or freestyle bike with pegs makes sense. But don’t compromise your safety or your mountain bike’s handling to bolt on tricks components it wasn’t made for. If more cargo capacity is needed, go with a purpose-built solution instead. Your next epic ride on the trails will be more enjoyable without worrying about pegs getting in the way.

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Do mountain bikes come with pedals? https://mountainbikerz.com/do-mountain-bikes-come-with-pedals-and-why/ https://mountainbikerz.com/do-mountain-bikes-come-with-pedals-and-why/#respond Thu, 05 Oct 2023 05:53:55 +0000 https://mountainbikerz.com/2023/10/05/do-mountain-bikes-come-with-pedals-and-why/ Some of the best mountain bikes are sold without pedals, so if you are about to buy your first mountain bike, or if you are thinking about buying a second one to give as a gift to someone who is just getting started with their mountain biking adventure, it’s important to understand why pedals are ... Read more

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Some of the best mountain bikes are sold without pedals, so if you are about to buy your first mountain bike, or if you are thinking about buying a second one to give as a gift to someone who is just getting started with their mountain biking adventure, it’s important to understand why pedals are optional.

This is a common question that many people have. Most of those people are willing to start Mountain Biking, or they are beginners. In this blog post, we are going to analyze and explain this inquiry.

The answer is no because the newest mountain bikes usually don’t come with pedals. The pedals are very small and don’t really take much effort to push down on the pedal, so it probably wouldn’t make much difference if they were there or not.

Another reason is the price because a mountain bike with pedals costs more than a mountain bike without pedals in general.

A mountain bike pedal is made of metal or plastic with a platform for the cyclist’s foot to rest on. Most have toe clips or straps to keep the rider’s feet in place while pedalling. The most common types of mountain bike pedals are platform style and flat pedals, but there are also some speciality styles, such as BMX-style or clipless.

As a matter of fact, some of the best mountain bikes are sold without pedals, so if you are about to buy your first mountain bike, or if you are thinking about buying a second one to give as a gift to someone who is just getting started with their mountain biking adventure, it’s important to understand why pedals are optional.

Why do mountain bikes have flat pedals?

The flat pedals of mountain bikes are simple in design, but their history is anything but. The history of flat pedals can be traced back to early bicycles in order to prevent riders from slipping off the pedals while riding. The pedals on early bicycles were not like today’s ergonomic spinning platforms, but rather a straight bar that was mounted onto the wheel hub. This meant that a rider’s feet would slip off easily if they weren’t attached securely to the pedal.

The earliest known bicycle with a pedal gripping system was invented by Pierre Lallement in 1869.

Flat pedals are the standard, but why? If you’ve ever ridden with clipless pedals, you know they are definitely more convenient.

The main reason for this is that flat pedals are easy to engage and disengage. That makes them great for novice riders who haven’t yet mastered clipping in and out of their pedals.

There are a lot of people who want to ride a mountain bike and cannot for one reason or another. Some people don’t like the idea of wearing a pair of shoes with cleats on the bottom. When you’re comfortable in your own shoes, it makes it easier to ride.

When you’re learning how to ride a bicycle it’s important to avoid having your feet slip off the pedals when you go through rough terrain because if they do, you could be thrown off balance and risk injury. Flat pedals also allow you to keep your feet in place while riding.

There is a reason why mountain bikes have flat pedals. In the early days of mountain biking, you couldn’t ride downhill with clipless pedals because there were no brakes on those bikes. You had to use your feet to stop yourself, and it worked well.

If you are familiar with using clipless pedals for riding on the road, you know that they can be very dangerous on a mountain bike. On the road, you can slow down by simply pushing down on the pedal with your foot. But on a mountain bike, you don’t want to do that because it could lead to serious

Do clipless pedals really make a difference?

In cycling, clipless pedals have been around for a while. They have been preferred over regular platforms because of their convenience and ease of use. It is a system that has been used time and again by a large number of cyclists, and it makes sense why.

However, recently the popularity of clipless pedals has been on a decline. People have been switching to flat pedals more, and this trend doesn’t seem to stop any time soon. So, what is it? Is it really more convenient to ride with flat pedals?

Do mountain bikers clip in?

There are many different types of bikes used for mountain biking, but most follow the same basic structure of a bicycle. It has two wheels, pedals and handlebars.

Many mountain bikers like the idea of clipping into their pedals and they’re convinced that it is a necessity. However, there are many who would argue against this and say that they don’t clip in – and they still ride just fine.

Clipping in or out is a personal decision, but there are some pros and cons worth considering. With this guide, we hope to provide you with the information you need to make an informed decision.

There are many cyclists who are switching to clipless pedals for their performance benefits. What they don’t realize is that there are some distinct differences between road cycling clipless pedals and mountain-biking clipless pedals. This article explores the differences between road cycling pedals and mountain biking pedals, with a focus on what makes them different.

Road cyclists tend to use different types of shoes than mountain bikers do. Due to the nature of their bikes, road cyclists choose more aerodynamic shoes than mountain bikers do. Also, road cyclists wear more streamlined clothing than they do in the off-season.

Clipping in is the process of securing your feet to the pedals of your bicycle. This technique can also be used on a mountain bike, but many riders are concerned about the safety and security of the pedal system.

Our goal is to help mountain bikers decide whether or not they should clip in by reviewing the benefits and drawbacks of this type of pedal system.

Conclusion

Mountain bikes come with many different types of pedals, whether it is for off-roading or racing. With the variety of mountain bikes available on the market today, you can pick out one that has the type of pedals that will work best for you. Whether you are a beginner rider or more of an experienced mountain biker, there is a bike out there for you. While a mountain bike has a different feel to it than a road bike, the differences are quite minor. Many riders prefer to use clipless pedals on their mountain bikes for better pedalling efficiency and control. However, some riders still prefer flat pedals for certain types of riding. The choice is really up to you!

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Choosing the Best Mountain Bike Backpack – A Buyers Guide https://mountainbikerz.com/choosing-the-best-mountain-bike-backpack-a-buyers-guide/ https://mountainbikerz.com/choosing-the-best-mountain-bike-backpack-a-buyers-guide/#respond Sun, 17 Sep 2023 19:13:59 +0000 https://mountainbikerz.com/2023/09/17/choosing-the-best-mountain-bike-backpack-a-buyers-guide/ Mountain bikers usually avoid to hang baggage and handbag to the bike and prefer to use backpacks. It’s a matter of weight distribution, of security (with vibrations and blows, the bags could come off only to end up dangerously in the wheels) and aesthetics. When you begin engaging in paths and unknown descents while suffering these problems and choose ... Read more

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Mountain bikers usually avoid to hang baggage and handbag to the bike and prefer to use backpacks. It’s a matter of weight distribution, of security (with vibrations and blows, the bags could come off only to end up dangerously in the wheels) and aesthetics.

When you begin engaging in paths and unknown descents while suffering these problems and choose to get the backpack that is worn on the shoulders. In the practice of cycling and urban cycling, backpacks are generally not recommended, because they sweat and increase the weight on the saddle making it a pain in the crotch. On the contrary, in mountain biking sweating is a given, and the time spent in the saddle is much less as you often have to move on the saddle to tame the bike between bumps, rocks and tight corners.

Even though the backpack should be chosen with care. A normal backpack with only two shoulder straps is uncomfortable and even dangerous. For this reason, if the mountain biking passion begins to hit, you may want to seriously reconsider the idea of investing several tens of dollars in a backpack designed specifically for the sport.

Volume 

Backpacks for mountain bikes are generally developed in length to save on width and depth, to keep its contents tight, still, and close to the body. Mountain biking trips normally last a few hours, and the backpacks often have a capacity of a few liters . It is important to think carefully about what you need to carry around in a typical excursion, and buy a backpack that can contains the necessary objects and it is not too large. It must store a multi tool, must be equipped with numerous pockets and nets (zippered) for a tidy storage.

Less than 10 liters – Enough for a water bladder, a pump, and a few tools. Ideal for cross-country competitions, training, and short trips in summer (no need to bring in raincoat or warm clothing).

Between 10 and 20 liters – For a raincoat, a long shirt, a bag cover (for rain) and cereal bars. Ideal for long biking trips.

Between 20 and 30 liters – For carrying snacks, secateurs, a sleeping bag and warm clothes or no crease or so downhill protections Ideal for long rides, urban travel with purchases ( bread).

Between 30 and 40 liters – For carrying a small sleeping bag, gear for several days, a full meal, and toiletries. These backpacks are generally too wide and high and hence can be uncomfortable.

Beyond 40 liters – If you want to hike with your bike with bivouac, tents, a large duvet, stove, food for several days, warm clothes. Going mountain biking on a technical course with a backpack more than 40 liters can be detrimental and uncomfortable. Try transporting the equipment on a rack or trailer. Study the possibility of leaving the tents, sleeping bags and stoves in the base camp, and then bike with a smaller backpack.

Back length

The comfort of backpack depends on the body stature of the wearer. In addition to hip width and shoulder width, the back length is crucial. For this reason there is a distinction between models for men and women in most products. The right back length ensures a balanced load distribution, no slips and a sophisticated ventilation for a dry back.

Back length is measured from the iliac crest, the highest point of the located on the side of the body hip bone, right up to the lowest cervical vertebrae C7.

The shoulder straps on the backpack approach should be located between the shoulder blades. So the shoulder pads are optimally adapted to the shoulders. If it is found that the pack sits too high and is too close to the neck, the back length is clearly too long. If the back length, however, be too short, then the backpack seems bigger than necessary. Thus the shoulder pads cut and are not stable on the shoulders. Even with length-adjustable shoulder straps, these problems can not be avoided.

Water and Hydration

Almost all backpacks for mountain biking are also equipped with water bag – it is basically a flexible plastic container that can be filled with water. The container is connected to a small tube that protrudes from the bag, and passes the front (where it can be secured thanks to the slots normally present on the front part of the shoulder straps of the backpack), to reach the mouth of the rider.

In this way you can avoid drinking from bottle and bottle cage (which pose the same three problems identified in the first paragraph) and drink without taking your hands off the handlebars which can be dangerous. Not everyone likes this system for drinking, especially cleaning the water bag.  If you have never tried it, our advice is to buy a backpack with water bag anyway. If you are uncomfortable, you can simply remove it and return to the traditional water bottle.

Volume to provide also depends on the volume of the water bag.

1 to 1.5 liters – just enough for winter biking, a cycling event with pit stops or a semi-urban route.

2 or 2 5 liters – the right compromise for b in any season.

3 liters or more – For warm areas and seasons, when you need to drink a lot, when water sources are uncertain or spaced.

Mountain bike backpacks are generally equipped with a compartment for water bladder, a hole for the pipe outside and a clip on a strap to attach the hose. They are sometimes sold with a water bag, a hose and a nozzle.

Helmet Storage and Rain Cover

There are many features of a backpack which one can discuss such as back protection, hydration system, special compartments for maps. This is always dependent on application, requirement and taste. Two things, however, seem almost essential and you should not do without the helmet holder and a rain cover.

In some situations, it is advantageous if you can store the helmet in a safe and accessible storage without losing anything from the actual volume capacity. Therefore helmet fixations were developed. In addition to the “clamp-variant” in which the helmet is mounted externally on the backpack, there are also backpacks with separate helmet compartment that does not affect the space inside the backpack adversely.

Very important tool especially for mountain bikers who dare to bike even in uncertain weather conditions outside the door, is the rain cover. For several years, this useful feature can be found on all common outdoor backpacks. Either as a loose component or sewed and stored in a small pocket at the bottom of the backpack. The weatherproof cover can be easily slipped over the entire backpack to keep your food and clothing dry.

Modification Options

In general, the more a backpack can be adjusted, the more comfortable it is. The shoulder strap, the chest strap and the hip strap stabilization straps are responsible for fine-tuning. Every reputable manufacturer ensures a perfect fit and adjustment options in their backpacks.

But one should always be aware, despite the countless variations and adjustment systems – a backpack is only good for mountain bikers when its shape is adapted to the usual posture during biking. A typical trekking rucksack, for example, would be unsuitable.

Additional Tips

  • An MTB backpack should not be too big or too small. An overfilled bag will tend to deform and will not be comfortable.
  • External compartment for water pocket are not good.
  • Heavy items are stored as close to the back, otherwise the bag tosses.
  • Heavy bags provide comfort but may interfere with head movements.
  • Finding the right compromise to practice for a specific use. It is better to buy the bag after establishing a list of its contents and estimate the volume they hold.
  • Always buy from a reputed manufacturer. Amazon and other sports retailers carry some excellent mountain biking backpacks which are fine to start.
  • Some backpacks are more oriented towards enduro or downhill with integrated protection for the back.
  • If you bike in rain, it is important that the backpack  must be both waterproof and comes with an easy to use waterproof cover.
  • If you like to use the GPS while biking, look for a backpack that allows to easily attach a smartphone support.

How to fill your MTB backpack

Finally, you have purchased a backpack that exactly fits your needs. Here is a list of items to take absolutely for biking. To exit a few hours in the summer and in good weather, it can be enough a backpack from 4-5 liters of total volume, in which to:

  • Mini pump
  • Multitool
  • Food
  • Energy drink
  • Small first aid kit
  • Phone, house keys, money

If you bike in winter and in the rain, you must have a little more space for a waterproof and breathable jacket. If you are able to use them, it is useful to bring even more tools to use in case of emergencies (different keys, gear and brake cables, clamps). There are also backpacks for mountain biking even larger, with a volume of 15 liters and more. For those who decide to stay out all day, taking more food and gear makes sense.

Conclusion

Finding the appropriate backpack is, thanks to the large supply of many manufacturers by no means an impossible task. It’s quite the contrary! Due to the many variations that different adjustment systems and the wealth of different designs, there is a matching bike pack for everyone. It is important only to seek good advice, in advance to read and understand the subject and ideally to try out different backpacks. Because with the perfect backpack as a constant companion on the mountain you have double the joy!

If you have any doubts or want to compare backpacks, please comment below.

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What should I carry while mountain biking? https://mountainbikerz.com/what-should-i-carry-while-mountain-biking-full-guide/ https://mountainbikerz.com/what-should-i-carry-while-mountain-biking-full-guide/#respond Sun, 10 Sep 2023 17:42:52 +0000 https://mountainbikerz.com/2023/09/10/what-should-i-carry-while-mountain-biking-full-guide/ The mountain bike season is around the corner, the bike is fixed, the motivation is high, but before each tour, you have to follow the same procedure: What to do? What is necessary? Our packing list helps those who are spoiled for choice and lists the essential equipment for a day trip. The most important ... Read more

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The mountain bike season is around the corner, the bike is fixed, the motivation is high, but before each tour, you have to follow the same procedure: What to do? What is necessary? Our packing list helps those who are spoiled for choice and lists the essential equipment for a day trip.

The most important thing is to find out what you do not need to pack and how you can avoid excess baggage. Below you can find a list of things that you do not have to pack. Depending on the condition of the components and the length of the tour, they should be replaced before the start

In this article, you will find out everything you need to bring with you for a long trip with your mountain bike, from cycling gear to the food and the drinks you need.

  • Tire
  • Pads
  • Chain
  • Chainrings
  • Spring / shock absorber

If everything is OK and adequate for the trip, I recommend the following things to pack in any case:

  • Cycling shoes
  • Cycling socks
  • Cycling shorts
  • Cycling jersey
  • Cycling helmet

Mountain Bike Ride – Essential Equipment

  • Spare jersey
  • Functional Garment
  • Vest
  • Arm / Leg Warmers
  • Buff (headband, bandana, handkerchief in one and is thus an all-rounder)
  • Overshoes (for the cold season only)
  • Sunglasses/eyewear
  • Cycling gloves
  • Mountain bike backpack (20 litres)
  • Rain cover for your backpack
  • Knee pads
  • Hardshell raincoat

Gadgets

  • Bike computer
  • GPS device
  • Outdoor multifunction watch/heart rate monitor
  • Small light for your mountain bike
  • Repair kit
  • Small pump
  • Lock

Food and Hydration

  • Bottle or hydration material in a backpack
  • Energy bars

Health and First Aid

  • Small first aid kit
  • Duct tape
  • Sunblock
  • Lip protection
  • Handkerchiefs

Miscellaneous 

  • Map
  • Compass
  • GPS
  • Mobile phone
  • Photography equipment (if needed)
  • Batteries / Replacement Batteries
  • Cash
  • Pocket knife
  • Matches / lighter

The above packing list is sufficient for a one day trip in moderate terrain with no special requirements. If you want to bike in really extreme terrain or downhill, change your equipment accordingly. Also, it is important to note that depending on the length and route selection, you certainly do not need to take everything.

A one-hour trip through the fields and meadows needs lesser gear than a ten-hour trip in Yosemite. Therefore, we have tried to be as exhaustive as possible. You can leave some of that equipment at home according to your needs. Anyone planning a multi-day mountain bike tour should obviously pack much more quality gear.

Here are some tips for your next MTB trip

  • Comfort is very important.
  • Select spare clothes that have low weight.
  • Beware of the weather at all times. Keeping a good raincoat never hurts and protects against wind and weather conditions.
  • Safety first! Whatever weight you end up saving in the clothing department, get some safety equipment in its place. Some repair items are required (small pump, small tool kit), because every trip carries some risk.
  • Respect the environment. Mountain biking is booming and rightly so. It is a wonderful means to move fast and to experience nature intensely. But as always, it is also true here some rules are to be observed. As more and more mountain bikers flock to the hotspots, often special routes have been established, while others are prohibited. Always comply with the local rules.
  • Respect your fellow men! The mountains are there for all and there is enough space for all to bike/hike/camp happily.
  • Respect your limits! Challenges are good and you grow with them but select the routes according to your skill levels.

Energy is an essential aspect of a better ride. Professional mountain bikers are supervised by trainers and doctors, who according to their physical characteristics follow the best diets to allow to recover quickly the condition during and after physical exertion. Let’s take a look at which foods are suitable for mountain bikers.

Nutrients needed by the Body

Carbohydrates (4 calories per gram) provide energy. They are divided mainly into starches (bread, rice, pasta, etc.) and carbohydrates (sugars). They are digested and subsequently absorbed in very short times.

Protein (4 calories per gram) have various biomechanical and biological functions. It is found in eggs, fish, meat, vegetables, milk and soya protein concentrates. They are reduced into amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) and then absorbed by the digestive system.

Fat (9 kcal per gram) are deposited and form a caloric reserve. They are divided into saturated (solid at room temperature and of animal origin such as cholesterol) and unsaturated (liquid at room temperature, derived predominantly from vegetables or from fish like omega 3).

Saturated fats are transformed into cholesterol (harmful) while polyunsaturated fats are transformed into predominantly fatty acids (good).

Vitamins (they have no calories) are essentially organic compounds. These are essential substances for humans to survive. They must be introduced each day through the intake of fruits, vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, milk.

They govern all metabolic and cellular functions, the production of proteins. Promote muscle recovery, protect against free radicals, from metabolic wastes, from premature ageing and cancer.

Minerals (they have no calories) have bioregulatory and protective functions. They are very important for the body, regulating almost all biochemical and physiological processes such as oxygen transport, protein and enzymatic activity, carbohydrate metabolism and hydration of muscles.

They must be entered every day by adequate consumption of vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, milk and cheese (in moderation).

Foods that I keep Stocked in my Backpack 

Bananas are the classic natural supplement for anyone who rides a bike. Thanks to potassium and vitamin B6, this fruit regulates the level of sugar in the blood and gives electrolytes lost during physical exertion. They also reduce the possibility of the occurrence of cramps.

Whey protein is an absolute classic. It is easily assimilated by the body which makes it an excellent food choice. Also recommended for recovery for its replenishment ability.

They are the ideal food for any biker. It provides energy while taking up little space. They are good when you are riding and as you burn a lot of calories, just pop a few of them in your mouth. Nuts quench hunger and provide energy.

Dried apricots: They have three times the potassium of bananas. Ideal for containment of blood pressure and rich in vitamin A and a source of vitamin C.

Dried dates: When you are very tired the body makes you feel the need to consume sugary foods, another good choice are the dates which, although very sweet, have a low glycemic index, which allows them to release sugars slowly and maintain constant energy. They are rich in potassium and fiber are a source of magnesium.

Dried figs: Rich in calcium and magnesium, four dried figs also provide a quarter of the recommended daily intake of iron.

Nuts: They are an excellent source of concentrated energy, perfect for those with an active lifestyle. It has a high caloric density and it only takes a small quantity to get a significant burst of energy without burdening digestion. Walnuts, almonds, pistachios and other nuts contain so-called “good” fats, namely polyunsaturated and monounsaturated which counter the accumulation of cholesterol.

Honey is a complete food. It has enzymes, vitamins, glucose, fructose and other substances that provide energy immediately available to the body, Bikers must keep small sachets always with them. It enhances the recovery too.

Nature offers everything necessary for our body. So try to stay away from food supplements whenever possible.

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Finn Smartphone Mount Reviewed – Cheapest Mount Ever https://mountainbikerz.com/finn-smartphone-mount-reviewed-cheapest-mount-ever/ https://mountainbikerz.com/finn-smartphone-mount-reviewed-cheapest-mount-ever/#respond Sun, 06 Aug 2023 20:19:48 +0000 https://mountainbikerz.com/2023/08/06/finn-smartphone-mount-reviewed-cheapest-mount-ever/ Whether you use your bike as a primary means of transport or only for your leisure sports, your smartphone is never far away when you are biking. You will surely use it in GPS mode, or perhaps as a counter with one of the many tracking applications. However, the main concern remains to securely and easily ... Read more

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Whether you use your bike as a primary means of transport or only for your leisure sports, your smartphone is never far away when you are biking. You will surely use it in GPS mode, or perhaps as a counter with one of the many tracking applications. However, the main concern remains to securely and easily mount your smartphone on the handlebars of your bike to read information quickly. So we tested a clever product for hundred kilometers – the Finn smartphone mount to attach to your handlebars.

Delivery and Unpacking

At first glance, the packaging reveals a single piece of rubber. I admit that the first thing that crossed my mind when I held it was “my iPhone 6 is going to smash on the asphalt at the first speed bump”. 

Nevertheless, this little product has the great advantage of being extremely light – just twenty grams! Second advantage, and not the last, the Finn mount is flexible. So it is very easy to store it in your pocket when not in use.

Assembling the Finn smartphone Mount

During assembly, once again I recommend you to take a look at the manual. The silicone band is placed on the handlebars, hit the lower end around the handlebar tube and then pull through a slit of the band forward. The other end is placed down and at the back. Now it is possible, using the slots at each end to attach a smart phone with all four corners under some tension. I tested it with my iPhone 6 which has a rather large display.

In addition, my iPhone 6 is protected by a bumper guard, which makes the phone thicker by a few millimeters. The silicone is indeed greatly stretched by the large display and the bumper, but does not feel it would break. For smaller phones there is no problem anyway. After a little correction, strips of the mount adjust to the phone sitting on the handlebars. Depending on the phone you just need to slightly adjust the corner fitting, therefore no side buttons are hidden. With practice, the smartphone can then fix in a few seconds on the handlebar and removed.

Going Downhill with Finn 

I do not necessarily use this product in town but it’s a godsend when out biking in the forest or hiking with your cycle. Going downhill, I faced tough resistance but my smartphone was still hanging no matter what happened. The mount is so tight that the display or keys can be operated even at the bottom or top of the phone. Finn mount reveals its true potential in the rough terrain. 

During a test round in the town, a cyclist even asked me what I had on my handlebars as he wanted an effective product for similar use. The Finn mount is not only has great utility but is high in style too! 

Lightweight, resistant, convenient to install and remove, it will undoubtedly be a great ally for a successful bike ride.

Conclusion

At this price point, it remains one of the mounts that is the cheapest in the smartphone market. It is compatible with most smartphones. You can spend use your smartphone easily without having to remove the protective cover like in some smartphone mounts.

For road cyclists and mountain bikers, Finn is more than adequate replacement for an expensive mount system. Even if the silicone holder does not last forever, for a small price of a few dollars,  you can buy a new piece after some time.

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