Getting the right Mountain bike

In general, you should make sure that the bike fits you – and that does not mean the paint and varnish look good. You should feel comfortable on the bike. Consult your local dealer or ask us. We will help you not only in the selection of the appropriate material and the frame size but also in determining the correct seating position.

$500 is the lower limit for a quality MTB. For $1000 you can get a very good bike. The weight of a fully equipped bike is then between about 25 to 26 lbs. By comparison, the bike that I ride currently cost me around $3000.

A distinction is made between hardtail (front suspension only) and full suspension (front and rear suspension). Full-suspension is heavier but is also more comfortable.

Pay attention to good tires and correct pressure

Mountain biking is the robust version of pedalling. The tires are at least 50 millimetres wide. An important criterion to have fun in the terrain is the tire air pressure. Mountain bikes are driven with substantially lower air pressure than, say, road bikes on the road. Low pressure means more grip and more comfort.

Depending on your weight, I recommend recreational athletes inflate the tire to about 2 bars. The rule of thumb is – as little air pressure as possible, as much as necessary. This enhances driving pleasure and ride comfort.

Here’s a nice blog post from REI on how to choose the best bike tires for your bike.

Get your hands on the right Clothing

Just like the bike, you need to have the bike clothes that fit right. Mountain biking clothing plays an important role in the overall experience. So invest a little more money and get quality clothing. Functional clothing is more expensive but also works great.

The most important tool is the shorts. It represents the contact surface with the saddle. The so-called seat leather in step (which is no longer made of leather nowadays) must fit well. Be careful: There are differences between women’s and men’s trousers. I recommend pants with straps from experience because they do not slip so easily.

Also important is an undershirt that makes the sweat from the skin disappear quickly. When you buy a jersey be sure that several jersey pockets exist. Also, look for vests with Wind stopper material on the front to protect from the air stream when going downhill.

Mountain Biking necessary equipment

Helmet (mandatory): the helmet is an absolute prerequisite for your safety in the bike park. We strongly recommend the full-face helmet, as it easily ensures the best protection in case of falls. No question: I always wear a helmet, both in competition and in training. You should do it too!

It is important to make sure that the helmet is not only well ventilated, but your head shape adjusts optimally. Not every head is equal in shape. Just try several models and compare them. Also, make sure that the helmet ensures good ventilation, and that it has an official seal of approval. If in doubt, ask us. You can get a good helmet for $50 or less.

Visor: Equally important is a visor that protects your whole field of vision.

Elbow and knee pads: They protect you from cuts and scratches and also serve as impact protection at the places that are particularly exposed, namely elbow and knee.

Chest protection: Not compulsory but highly recommended as additional protection for the back and upper body.

Shoes with good soles: For a downhill or free ride could take a simple pair of sneakers, but we always recommend shoes with a thicker, firmer sole to reduce the load while driving.

Gloves: They give you more grip on the brakes and protect you when falling at the same time from any cuts. In a fall, you land usually first on the hands, so you should ensure appropriate coverage.

Flats or Clipless pedals?

We will advise you to go for clipless pedals. The fact that the shoe is “clicked” by a plate on the sole of the pedals, there is a better connection between the foot and bicycle. You are much safer on the pedals and do not slip off the pedal due to moisture.

The disadvantage, however, for beginners is obvious: the release from the pedal is an unusual movement. Many newcomers have the fear of falling down fast enough. Practice it!

If you want to learn more on this topic you can check out our article on if mountain bikes come with pedals or not and why.

Become a Biking expert 

You learn by mountain biking regularly. If you are biking in an area regularly, you will quickly benefit from your experience. Try, for example, once initially at low speed on the flat, how it feels when you block the rear tires by brakes and the rear wheel slips on loose ground. Drive extra slow once over a narrow line, and check your balance.

Using these little tricks you can achieve perfection. From experience, I can say that this process is accelerated significantly if you take part in skills training.

Stay careful in forests. It always depends on where you are with your bike. This means that bike only in ways that are at least two meters wide in the forest.

Conclusion

To sum up, mountain biking is an amazing sport to get into. And it doesn’t take a lot of equipment to start out with. Just remember to wear the right safety gear and make sure your mountain bike is in good condition before you head out on the trail. As you can see from the guide above, there are a lot of different things to consider when getting ready for your first trail ride. Luckily, most people have a decent bike lying around and all it takes is a few small upgrades to be ready for your first mountain biking adventure! If you want to learn more about what you need to get started, feel free to check out our other blog posts as well.

The post What do I need to start mountain biking? appeared first on Mountain Bikerz.

The word ‘yew’ is an old English word instead of ‘you’ that people used to say back in the past. The two words are pronounced identically and, over time, people started to use yew as a substitute for the word you.

This phrase can also be used by mountain bikers when they are frustrated with another rider. It is used to show disapproval.

The phrase is made up of the word ‘yew’ which sounds like ‘you’. The phrase can be translated to mean ‘why would you do that?’

People who do water sports like windsurfers and surfing in general, often shout “Yew” when they head for a big wave. Snowboarders, skiers, and rock climbers say “yew” too before a jump or in the middle of a jump.

In addition, you can hear this phrase and in some more sports but most of the time you will hear it from a mountain biker, surfer, skier or snowboarder.

Here’s a Youtube video that explains when people use “Yew” in a humorous way:

The word yew is a symbol of strength and immortality. It is because the yew tree has the longest life expectancy among all other trees and because it never dies.

Yew is also one of the most popular trees in cemeteries because people believe that deaths come less often to those who dwell near it.

This paper is about the use of “yew” in conversational English. It will explore why people say “yew” and also what the etymology of this word is.

The word “yew” has many meanings in modern English. It can be used as an adverb to mean “yes”, as a noun to describe a type of tree, or as an adjective to refer to a type of colour. The word has origins that go back to Germanic languages and it shares a root with words like German “Ja” and Dutch “Jaap” which means yes.

The word “yew” is an interesting choice. There are a few theories as to why it is used and the one that sounds the most plausible is that it’s a phonetic spelling of “you.” As we mentioned before, back in the day, people didn’t speak as clearly as they do today. This would make them sound like they were saying “yew.”

This could also be because back in the day people had different accents and sounds for words may not have been as distinct as they are today.

Conclusion

Summing up, in this article we have explained the meaning of the word “yew”, its origins, meanings and why Mountain bikers often say it. Moreover, this phrase is not only used in mountain biking. If you have any questions feel free to contact us and share our article if you found it useful.

The post Why do mountain bikers say yew? appeared first on Mountain Bikerz.

We’ll try to give some answers and advice in order to avoid unpleasant incidents. Nobody wants to turn their trip by bike in a day in the emergency room because of dehydration or sunstroke.

Staying hydrated will help you avoid fatigue and developing cramps or other ailments. Also, it is very important for cyclists, especially if competing in a long race or riding in hot temperatures. The best way to stay hydrated is to drink water throughout the day and before you ride.

Drinking Water is Essential

The first essential rule for any sport is the knowledge of its physical needs. To understand how important hydration is in cycling, as well as during any other physical activity. For this reason, anyone doing sport, at any level, needs to replenish the loss of body fluids.

Water is the fundamental element that you will have to replace, but it is also essential to consider what and how much it is dissolved. In addition to water, they are lost numerous other elements. The sweat is an isotonic liquid, essential to help maintain a constant body temperature. It is composed, in addition to water, of sodium and chlorine, but also magnesium, potassium and other mineral salts. In this case, the waters with a low dry residue (salt content) that are often advertised are poorly suited to sports.

What and how to drink while cycling

It is very important to remember to drink before the sensation of thirst is present and avoid icy or hot beverages that may cause gastrointestinal problems. Usually, at rest, you should drink about two litres of water a day, remembering to hydrate even and especially between meals to neutralize and eliminate muscle waste accumulated.

During physical exertion, according to the time, the intensity and the environment it supports, it is necessary to take fluids at room temperature and in small sips. It‘s a good idea to drink, especially if it’s hot, every 15 minutes a quantity of fewer than 200 ml to avoid burdening the stomach.

Classification of beverages

The most common classification of sports drinks is based on the same osmotic pressure, comparing it with that of the plasma (which is 280-300 mOsm / kg H 2 O):

• Hypotonic drinks – The concentration of the substances in the drink determines an osmotic pressure lower than that of the plasma. They are assimilated very quickly and are ideal if taken during physical exercise.
• Isotonic drinks – The concentration of the substances in the drink determines an osmotic pressure identical to that of the plasma. They are assimilated into the medium quickly and are ideal if taken before and during physical exercise.
• Hypertonic drinks – The concentration of the substances in the drink determines an osmotic pressure more significant than that of the plasma. They are assimilated over a long time and are ideal if taken after physical exercise.
• Mineral supplements – As we understand it, in addition to water, it is vital also replenish the minerals that are lost through sweating. They are active participants in multiple physiological functions of our body and are comparable only through the food and beverages we eat.

The first thing to think about is straightforward – to hydrate, you should drink regularly and in adequate quantity. The first suggestion then is to get ideal containers. It’s a good idea to remember that you should drink every 15-20 minutes maximum. The frequency of drinking will have to be adjusted – not to forget about this, you can use the very useful handset alarm functions or bicycle computer that will sound the alarm every time you will have to drink.

The sips of water to be taken will depend on the climatic situation and must take into account the intensity of the effort.

How to Store Water in Backpack

During cycling, it is always important not to run out of fluids, especially if the temperatures are high and involve equally hearty sweating.

The first thing to do is to inquire about the water supply points available on the track to avoid carrying extra pounds. In my opinion, the best match for the transportation of liquids is the use of a hydration pack with a Camel Bag (a plastic container with long straw) where you can store a few litres of pure water and one or two bottles to hold the minerals to sip occasionally.

Avoid putting liquids other than water in the camel bag because it might be challenging to clean and its remains of organic matter in it is easy for mould to grow. Remember, when you return from the excursion by bicycle, wash the bottles and empty the camel bag by placing it inside an object that takes apart the walls to complete drying. Occasionally clean the containers with water and a few drops of antiseptic to disinfect. Rinse everything before reuse.

As we have said, the amount of liquid from the lead bicycle depends on several factors such as the duration, the outside temperature and the points at which it is possible to refuel. You may need to carry around a large amount of water.

Today, water backpacks also exist in addition to the typical mountain bike or road bike water bottles. They come in various sizes. These backpacks are characterized by the presence of containers that can retain a variable amount of liquid. With these systems, water is always available. You drink through a straw coming out of the container and ending with a special spring-loaded device that does not get out of the water when not required.

Cleaning Water Bottles and Containers

If the water bottles have a few problems, cleaning containers in the bag is a matter to be reckoned with. In fact, the inside of the bag is not easily accessible. It will be a good practice to use a can with pure water without the addition of anything else – sugary additives, minerals, or protein substances are phenomenal producers of environments suitable for the proliferation of bacteria and bad odours.

In this way, the container, once rinsed, can be dried and stored. An object held in the detached walls favours drying.

Another advice is to proceed from time to time to fill it with water and a few drops of antiseptic for complete disinfection. In this case, you will need to remember to rinse it before using it again.

Another useful tip can be to keep the container in the refrigerator. Once rinsed, fill it with water and store it in the refrigerator. This procedure is more simple. The cold is an excellent deterrent for the proliferation of bacteria and, therefore, the formation of unpleasant odours.

Keep in mind that expensive cleaning kits are available (useless if you follow the advice given).

If you want to learn more about this topic, you can check out later this guide on how to clean water bottles by stylesatlife.com.

Prepping up Drinks for your Trip

The topic might seem more complex but instead is very simple. In containers, you put water, pure and simple water. The addition of minerals is certainly recommended, but please always consider that the additions should always be mild. During the exercise, the mineral salts should be taken when needed, so very much diluted with water.

To give you a practical example, with one serving (500 ml) of solution such as Gatorade, Energade or similar drinks, you should have at least “two half-litres” to be used during the exercise. In other words, the 500 ml bottle of drinks is distributed in two flasks which then end up filled with water. For each bottle, such a drink can be completed by four teaspoons of maltodextrin and fructose. It is more or less the same thing, only that fructose is sweet,, and maltodextrins are tasteless.

Each bottle will contribute about 140 calories, an ideal fit for a liquid to be taken during exercise.

Conclusion

Summing up, hydration is a very important reason to enjoy cycling, even if you are a road biker or a mountain biker. Staying hydrated is critical for cyclists of all levels. Whether you are training for your first race or racing professionally, it is important to stay hydrated before, during and after the ride. To stay hydrated during the summer months, make sure to bring water with you on your bike rides. You will definitely need it! Learn more about how to stay healthy by visiting our recent blog posts.

The post How much water should I drink while Mountain Biking? appeared first on Mountain Bikerz.

A long-distance ride requires energy generation at a relatively modest pace, and most of this energy comes from carbohydrates and fat, with a minor contribution from protein.

Among the primary fuels for working muscles, carbohydrate is glycogen, stored in both the muscles and the liver. On a long-distance ride, it might not be easy to maintain energy levels if you do not ingest carbohydrate before the ride and replenish it throughout the trip and at the end of each multi-day ride.

Stay tuned until the end to learn all the details you need to know.

What should I eat before a long bike ride?

The longer you bike, the more important nutrition becomes in terms of your overall performance. Getting this wrong — eating too little or too much – may result in a loss of physical and mental power as well as feeling bloated and sick while riding your bike.

When you exercise, carbohydrate is the primary source of energy for your muscles, not protein or fat. The simple sugar glucose is absorbed after digestion and stored in the liver and muscles as glycogen. Carbohydrate-rich meals and beverages such as bread, fruit, energy bars, and sports drinks are examples of foods and beverages containing many carbohydrates.

When you exercise, glycogen in your muscles is broken down into glucose, which provides energy to your working muscles. The body can store enough glycogen to provide energy for around 90 minutes of moderate-intensity activity.

The consumption of carbohydrates throughout your ride will be necessary if you are planning a ride that will last longer than 90 minutes or if your ride will contain high-intensity hill climbing. The use of carbohydrates during continuous exercise (for more than one hour) has been demonstrated in several studies to enhance performance.

According to the Dietitians of Canada, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and the American College of Sports Medicine, 30 to 60 grammes of carbohydrate per hour of activity lasting one to 2.5 hours is recommended, and up to 90 grammes per hour for prolonged bouts of exercise is recommended.

On-the-go snacks should consist mainly of easily digested carbohydrates and are low in protein and fat, which are nutrients that inhibit digestion. They should also be conveniently transportable, quickly accessible, and ones that you enjoy eating (so that you will consume the food).

If you want, you can check out later our relative guide about what you should carry while Mountain Biking.

Regarding fast-acting carbs, a few of the best options include raisins, dates, fig bars, cereal bars, energy bars (but not protein bars), energy gels and chews, and sports beverages. Pack more snacks than you think you’ll need if you don’t feel like eating one type or if you lose some snacks by accident while travelling.

What should you NOT eat before cycling?

There are some foods that you have to avoid before cycling for many reasons. A fundamental reason is that some foods offer low carbohydrates, which means that if you eat them, you will not get the same nutrition benefits as eating a banana, for example.

1. Corn flakes

It may seem strange even to consider not eating porridge before going for a ride. Still, cornflakes are a typical breakfast choice that may not appear too awful on the surface but are rather harmful.

Further investigation reveals that its high GI rating indicates that you will be burning off the carbs much too soon in a ride, as opposed to a whole grain breakfast that would slowly release energy throughout the ride.

2. Salad

You might be wondering, what could be wrong with a salad? You’d be right. Whenever someone sees the green leaves, they automatically believe it is a delicious side dish to accompany a meal or an excellent pick on its own. While this is true in the context of a well-balanced diet, it does not satisfy the needs of a pre-ride lunch because of its low carbohydrate content, which will make you weary early on.

3. Fizzy drinks

Even though the excessive quantities of sugar found in fizzy drinks are widely recognized and denounced, the image of a professional cyclist sipping on a can of fizz after a race may lead you to believe that they are the perfect tonic for a cyclist. Although it provides an instant sugar rush, the benefits wear off rapidly and might cause unpleasant side effects that can interfere with your cycling rhythm.

Are eggs good before cycling?

Yes, eggs may be a healthy pre-cycling food when consumed with a carbohydrate 2-4 hours before you go on your bike and ride. One big egg has 70 calories, 6 grammes of protein, 0 grammes of carbs, and 13 vitamins and minerals that are considered necessary. The energy your muscles require comes from carbohydrates. Therefore if you prefer to have eggs before a ride, be sure to add a source of carbohydrates such as toast or fruit to maximize your performance on the bike.

Should I cycle on an empty stomach?

There isn’t anything like it. Energy is expended on cycling rather than digesting, resulting in a reduction in body weight. So go ahead and engage in this beneficial activity. Cycling on an empty stomach will only make your body feel weak since it lacks the energy it needs to conduct any physical exercise.

In general, if you want to lose weight faster, you can try cycling with an empty stomach to “see” the experience, but it is up to you if you want to try. Also, an article from “We love cycling” explains the benefits of cycling with an empty stomach if you’re going to learn more on this topic.

Instead of cycling with an empty stomach, you can eat something light to get some energy because cycling requires energy and strength.

What foods are good for cycling endurance?

Below there are some of the most beneficial foods that you should try in order to improve your cycling endurance and also to boost your energy.

1. Bananas

Bananas are a favourite of most endurance athletes and for a good reason. Potassium and complex carbs are abundant, providing sustenance for the long hours spent pedalling. With up to 30 grammes of carbohydrates and 400 milli-grammes of potassium in a single large banana, this yellow fruit is considered a superfood for cyclists. Furthermore, it is an environmentally beneficial solution because it eliminates the need for plastic baggies or reusable containers.

2. Nuts and Seeds

Almonds, chia seeds, and pistachios are some of the best nuts to eat. Oh, my goodness! With these little energy boosters, the possibilities are virtually limitless. The protein, vitamins, and antioxidants in this recipe help to keep you fueled for the long trip ahead of you despite the reduced carb count. Using nuts and seeds, you may make a trail mix and include them in granola or energy bars.

3. Dried Fruits

Several studies have demonstrated eating some dried fruits, such as raisins and dates, can significantly increase endurance-related performance. They are abundant in potassium, carbohydrates, and sugar, which can help you ride for extended periods by boosting your stamina.

In addition, raisins have less fibre than other dried fruit alternatives, such as figs, peaches, and pears. The unpleasant side effects of fibre-rich diets will not become an issue while cycling, ensuring that you remain healthy.

4. Electrolyte-Infused Water

When it comes to the proper operation of our bodies, electrolytes play a critical part in everything from the regulation of nerve and muscle function to hydration. Calcium, sodium, potassium, phosphate, chlorine, and magnesium are the electrolytes that make up the body. A large number of these vital minerals are lost through sweat.

While athletes require an electrolyte-infused drink, many sports drinks contain too much sugar and artificial colourings for their taste and are not recommended. Making electrolyte drinks home with a bit of honey, salt, lemon, and water is an excellent alternative to buying them at the store. It’s that simple and will keep you hydrated on those long, sweaty rides you like.

Recently, we have also written an article on how much water you should drink when Mountain biking if you want to check this out.

Conclusion

Summing up, we have just mentioned some of the most important foods you have to consider eating before cycling long distances with your bike. Also, we have mentioned some foods you should avoid in order to keep yourself in good condition. Overall, a good diet leads to good endurance and boosts your energy. If you enjoyed this blog post, please share it with your friends on Social Media, and if you have any questions, do not hesitate to send us an e-mail. We are more than happy to help you with the appropriate solutions.

The post What to eat Before Cycling Long Distance- A Complete Guide! appeared first on Mountain Bikerz.

Riding a mountain bike on snow is not easy. If you ride too fast, it will cause your tires to slide out from under you or sink into deep drifts of snow.

But, the main reason you have clicked on our article is to find out whether or not you can actually ride your mountain bike on the snow, isn’t it?

So, as you understand from the title, this article would be about the specific skills needed for mountain biking in the snow. It would also talk about what type of mountain biking gear is needed to go for a ride in the snow.

Are mountain bikes good for snow?

Mountain bikes are not the best choice for snowy or slippery surfaces which makes them a less than ideal choice for winter riding but you can still do that if you want.

As winter approaches, many people get excited about the abundance of snow they get to ride. While others are terrified of the cold and the slippery hills. But there is one thing that everyone agrees on – winter biking is awesome!

Anyone can enjoy the magic of winter biking, but it requires certain equipment in order to be safe. The most important thing to wear is a helmet. This will protect your head from accidents and will also ensure that you don’t lose too much body heat. You should also wear gloves, thick socks or any other protective gear for your hands or lower body.

The second most important thing for mountain biking in winter are mountain bikes with fat tires – this will help you climb steep hills with ease when even walking can be difficult due to ice, snow or sludge.

Snow is not something that mountain bikes were built for so they will not be good at it. Mountain bikes were made to handle paved surfaces and hard-packed trails which is why they may feel less comfortable when ridden on snow or ice-covered ground. The best way to get around the snow is by using a bicycle with wide tires and more suspension (these can provide traction).

Can mountain bikes be used on snow? Let’s find this out

Can you ride a bike in the snow? The answer is not clear because it mainly depends on some things.

It will depend on the stiffness of your bike’s suspension, the air pressure in your tires, the width of your tire tread, and other factors. You can get away with it if you are gentle with the brakes and gears.

In general, many people can say that Mountain bikes are not designed to be used on snow, at least not for an extended period of time because the snow surface is slippery enough for this kind of bike.

The tires are usually built with a tread that is meant to grip the ground through the course of bumpy terrain.

However, below we have good news for you because:

1. Mountain bikes are very durable and sturdy, therefore they can be used on snow without a problem. They also have thicker tires.
2. The type of gear you need for this is called a fat tire bike, which is made to help cyclists get through any type of terrain or environment that they may come across while riding their bike.

If your mountain bike matches those requirements, then you are okay to ride in the snow.

Is it OK to ride your bike in the snow?

The question of whether or not it is ok to ride a bike in the snow often arises when the winter months come around. If we look at this from a safety perspective, we can see that riding a bike in the snow is actually encouraged for many reasons such as reducing the risk of injury due to increased traction on snowy surfaces and taking advantage

People can ride their bikes in the snow as long as they take the necessary precautions. It is important to pay attention to ice and snow on the road. You may need to remove your kickstand and use your feet to push down on the pedals.

The amount of traction you have is dependent on how much ice, snow, or slush there is. If you are riding up a hill, make sure that you take it slow and be careful about making sharp turns or stopping suddenly which could cause you to lose traction and slide downhill.

I’ll let you in on a little secret: it’s not only ok but encouraged.

Snow is a blessing for two reasons:

1. It forces you to slow down and enjoy the scenery; and
2. It levels the playing field.

You can go fast without having to worry about tire traction and you don’t need to break your back by lifting your bike over every snowdrift.

Benefits of cycling on the snow

There are a lot of benefits to riding a bike in the snow. It is a great way to maintain your fitness and it will help you clear your head.

The greatest benefit is that you can save on gas money by not driving or relying on public transportation. There are some safety precautions that you should take into consideration before going out in the snow, though.

Riding a bicycle in the snow can be dangerous due to icy conditions and lack of traction on the ground. If you do decide to ride your bike in winter conditions, make sure that you have at least one light set up for visibility and something like studded tires which provide better grip on icy surfaces.

Can you mountain bike in winter?

Mountain biking in winter can be a great way to explore nature in the winter. There are some safety precautions that you should take before heading out on your journey.

Whether you can mountain bike in winter depends on factors such as the state of the trails and the temperature.

We already know that mountain biking in winter is not the same as in spring or summer. There are some factors that are unique to winter mountain biking, which I will go over in this article.

Factors to consider:

– The snow depth and whether it is compacted

– Whether the trail is open

– The temperature, snow conditions, and how much snow there is

Also, there is a nice blog post by the bicycling site that you can check out later about some tips for riding a bike in the winter.

Mountain bike tires tend to be narrower in the winter, which makes them less stable on rough surfaces and they can get stuck easily in snow or ice pits. Winter also means there is more moisture in the air, which makes conditions quite slippery when it’s really cold outside.

What mountain bike is the best for snow?

This section discusses the best type of mountain bike for snow conditions.

When looking for the best mountain bike for snow, it is important to consider three things: suspension, weight, and tread.

For this case, we have done a small research in order to find out the ideal and the best Mountain Bike for snow and similar surfaces.

And we have found this Mountain Bike named:

Surly Pugsley

The Surly Pugsley bike was originally created and tested in Minnesota winters. This is a reason to be enough to convince you that Surly Pugsley is a good Mountain Bike for snow and winter.

Known as the first established snow bike, the Pugsley has a strong steel frame and a big-knobbed tire tread which is perfect for snow roads and bad weather conditions.

Features:

• Frame and Fork: 4130 Chromoly steel. Frame’s double-butted tubing in main triangle adds strength
• It has 18 gears
• 26 inches wheels
• Front Hub: Surly Ultra New, 32h
• Rear Hub: Shimano Deore, 32h
• Tires: Surly Nate, 2.6×3.8
• The price of Surly Pugsley is around $1,750

We know that the price of it may be too high for many people but in our recent blog post, we explained why mountain bikes are so expensive these days. You can check it out later if you want.

What temperature is too cold for mountain biking?

The answer to the question “what temperature is too cold for mountain biking?” varies across the world because Mountain biking can be done all the seasons of the year.

If you’re thinking about mountain biking in the cold, here’s what you need to know:

Mountain biking is most enjoyable when the weather is not too hot and not too cold.

Also, before we move to the numbers, you have to consider for example that the climate of Australia is way more different than the climate of Norway, so the impact of temperature is different from country to country.

The best temperature for mountain biking on average is about 50 degrees Fahrenheit (10 degrees Celsius).

In general, temperatures below 50 F (10 C) may be too cold for those who are not used to such weather and those who do not have appropriate clothing. The lower limit of 50 F (10 C) will depend on your specific body and situation factors and should not be considered a hard and fast rule.

When we say “too cold” we mean below this temperature. So, if it is 20 degrees F (-7 degrees C), that would be a good time to call it quits after an hour or two.

How deep of snow can you ride a fat bike in?

Honestly speaking, nobody can answer this question with .100%.

A fat bike is a bike that has a wide, low-pressure tire with a tread on the outer edge. This design provides tons of traction so you can ride on surfaces that are too difficult for regular bikes. That being said, it depends on how deep of snow you have and how steep the slope is.

This is a question that many people have been asking themselves. I have been conducting research to find the answer to this question, and hopefully provide some insights into the usefulness of a fat bike as a winter commuter.

In order for us to determine how deep of snow you can ride a fat bike in, we first had to define what “ride” means.

For the purposes of this article, riding a fat bike in deep snow is going for a distance equal or greater than one through five miles with an average grade of less than 8%.

Conclusion

All in all, Mountain Biking is great in all weather conditions because every season has its magic and uniqueness. Can Mountain bikes be used on snow? Yes, for sure! but you have to be careful of what we mentioned before. Also, take care of your equipment and wear enough clothes because a cold riding in the winter needs the right preparation!

The post Can mountain bikes be used on snow? appeared first on Mountain Bikerz.

There are very few individuals who have never heard of a mountain bike or have ever seen one in person. Have you ever gone for a spin on a dirt bike? After reading this, you might be inclined to do so.

Among the many ways to characterize dirt bikes are incredible experiences, screaming engines, fantastic sound, and incredible rapidity! Mud, dirt, sand, and pebbles aren’t particularly appealing.

There are many differences between these two bikes, but the main and the most common differences between dirt and mountain bikes are the price, speed, maintenance and noise!

You may be familiar with the notion of a mountain bike if you are among those who have done so. At the same time, riding a mountain bike provides both adventure and pleasure. It’s pretty light and an enjoyable method to take pleasure in the pace. It is equipped with a precision handling system that is virtually faultless. The smooth functioning encourages you to get as much enjoyment out of it as possible while you are out riding it.

So, let’s dive straight into this article to find out the differences between mountain biking and dirt biking (apart from the quite obvious ones like a more fantastic feel of the adrenaline rush, higher skillset and endurance, and so on)

Mountain Biking vs Dirt Biking – Differences

There is a significant weight difference between a dirt bike and a mountain bike. You can tell by glancing at the two that this is the case. While a dirt bike might weigh anywhere from 200 to 275 pounds, mountain bikes can range in weight from 20 to 35 pounds, depending on the model. This also presupposes that it is not an e-bike in the first place. E-bikes will be significantly heavier than a typical mountain bike when fully charged.

Even if you are a mountain bike enthusiast or possess a mountain bike of your own, you should consider trying dirt biking to add more fun and excitement to your life. You’ll need a firm commitment and a strong sense of resolve.

1. There is a significant difference in propulsion between a dirt bike and a mountain bike!

Again, this appears to be self-evident, yet the way each machine moves or drives the machines varies depending on the situation.

In order to regulate forward movement, a dirt bike rider will lean slightly forward and carefully manage the forward movement with the correct throttle, clutch, and brake control.

While a mountain bike rider will lean forward as well, he will have to pedal, which will need more work because he will not be able to maintain a static foot position. Legs must be moved to assist in propelling the bike ahead.

2. There is a significant price difference between a dirt bike and a mountain bike!

There are several factors to explore and evaluate, all of which impact the price of a particular mountain bike or dirt bike. We may, on the other hand, speak in generalities about the disparities. However, we must point you that you may come across situations that directly oppose everything we have discussed.

In comparison to dirt bikes, mountain bikes will be less costly. Depending on the model, new dirt motorcycles may cost anywhere from $6500 to more than $12,000. Mountain bikes can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to upwards of $10,000, depending on their specifications.

3. Dirt Bikes require more maintenance!

As you can see, when you have various equipment, the maintenance requirements for each of them will be very different. Because of the smaller amount of parts on the mountain bike, it will be less complicated to maintain in the overall scheme. For starters, the dirt bike has an engine, whereas the mountain bike has a crank-set and pedals. Moreover, the oil on the dirt bike will need to be changed frequently!

Your dirt bike’s engine type and the frequency with which you replace the oil will determine how often you change the oil. Compared to four-stroke dirt bikes, two-stroke dirt bikes require their gearbox oil to be replaced more regularly. I’m referring to transmission oil in the context of two-stroke dirt motorcycles just because the cylinder is lubricated with oil mixed in with the gas.

Mountain bike drive trains will need to be adjusted more regularly than dirt bike trains. The derailleur is what we are referring to here. Your key focus will be on ensuring that the wires are tight and that the movement occurs smoothly. With a dirt bike, you don’t have this luxury. Tires, suspension, and brakes should be checked regularly for mountain and dirt bikes, as well as before each ride.

4. Differences in noise levels between mountain bikes and dirt bikes!

The difference in noise levels between a dirt bike and a mountain bike should be immediately noticeable when riding either. After all, dirt motorcycles are equipped with engines. This is something we’ve talked about several times in this post.

Noise difference is something we want to discuss since we think it’s a question of personal taste. Some individuals, in particular, appreciate the sound of a two-stroke engine when it produces a loud buzz, which is characteristic of a high-revving motor. Other dirt riders favour the fourth stroke because of its deep throat sound in their riding style.

Mountain bikers, for example, have expressed a preference for the sound of free will from the rear cassette. The argument is that sound is subjective to the individual who is riding it. The ability to hear your immediate surroundings is another significant distinction between dirt bikes and mountain bikes when it comes to noise. While riding a dirt bike, it gets increasingly difficult to hear what is going on around you and to hear nature, save from perhaps the sounds of your fellow dirt bikers riding close by you.

On the other hand, mountain biking allows you to hear the birds singing, the wind blowing, and the water running if you’re riding right next to a river. This disparity between the noise produced by the two machines is critical because it will lead to a preference for one machine over the other.

Why are mountain bikes as expensive as dirt bikes?

There are several statements that people and buyers wonder why some mountain bikes are as expensive as dirt bikes. Well, this depends on several things because every mountain bike has unique parts that affect the overall price.

Mountain bike makers are also being pushed to employ more expensive materials due to the increased emphasis on weight reduction. Motorcycles would be absurdly expensive—and extraordinary—if constructed entirely of aluminium, magnesium, and carbon fibre!

If you want to learn more about the pricing of mountain bikes or why mountain bikes are so expensive, we have a special blog post based on this topic. Make sure to check it out later if you want.

Is a Dirt Bike easier to ride than a Bike?

Well, the answer to this question is no.

Dirt biking is much more complex and time-consuming than street riding. If you can ride a dirt bike well, you should also be able to ride a street bike, but not necessarily the other way around. Everyone would begin their journey on a dirt bike in an ideal world. To learn to ride a motorbike correctly, dirt bikes are just a better tool than motorcycles.

If you want to learn more about dirt bikes, you can visit this blog post of dirtxtreme about everything you need to know.

Conclusion

Summing up, we have analyzed the differences between mountain bikes and dirt bikes. Some people prefer to explore nature and enjoy the fresh air of the forests, and others like the adrenaline of a dirt bike! We hope you enjoyed our article as much as we did because this is an exciting topic for the fans of mountain biking and dirt biking as well. Also, if you want, you can share this article with your friends.

The post Mountain Biking vs Dirt Biking – All the Differences appeared first on Mountain Bikerz.

Whips are most commonly used by riders that feel that they “can not” control their bike. They tend to happen when riders are speed maniacs or they can no longer control their bike because they got tired and with that way, they can spend less energy.

Some cyclists do not use whips because it is considered a bad thing, or it can be dangerous if done wrong.

Without a doubt, Mountain bikers that are beginners or not too experienced should not whip because it is only useful in certain situations and doing it wrong can lead to crashes and even worse injuries.

As you understood from the introduction and the title, this article is right for the mountain bike whips and the fans of bike tricks.

What is a whip in mountain biking?

A whip is a practice trick where the rider throws the bike from side to side using their arms. Also, it is a skilful trick that is performed by throwing the bike from side to side using your arms. This trick can be used to clear obstacles, but it should never be used as a way of jumping over them.

The whips are mainly meant to push the rider forward, so they don’t lose speed as they descend a steep hill or as they go up a steep hill. This helps them maintain gravity so the rider can stay stable on the bike as it goes over bumps and rocks. The momentum generated by these whips is what pushes them forward during the fast descents of a mountain bike trail.

As we mentioned before, this trick is the most feared technique in mountain biking. It’s unpredictable because it can easily be transformed into very dangerous situations or it can be used to send a message to other riders.

If you want to learn more about the risk of mountain biking, you can take a look at our recent mountain biking dangers and injuries blog post.

Whipping is often seen as an aggressive maneuver that scares other riders, but some people use it more strategically than others. Some people use it to get on top of rivals while others use it to get out of tricky technical situations.

A whip is a cause of confusion, frustration, and even injury for many mountain bikers. It’s the act of rotating the handlebars around the steering axis to turn or lean, while the cyclist is in the air before landing.

Why do mountain bikers turn their handlebars when they jump?

Turning the handlebars while jumping is an essential trick of the whip and that’s the main reason we see mountain bikers doing that. But what is behind this move? Let’s find it below.

Mountain bikers turn their handlebars so that they can generate more force with their upper body to pull themselves up at the moment of the jump.

The rider’s weight is put on the handlebars when in the air and in order to make this trick, they need to turn the bars away from the jump.

Some mountain bikers are turning their handlebars sideways or at an angle when they jump. This is called a “jumping switch.”

Mountain bikers do this to avoid catching their back wheel on the lip of the ramp or jumping and flipping over backwards.

The main reason for this is that it provides a more controlled direction of flight and helps them control their bike better in general.

Also, Mountain bikers turn their handlebars because they want to maintain the balance of the bike. When they jump, the weight shifts towards the front of the bike. This causes it to tilt and if they don’t counter-steer, it’ll cause them to crash, so they have to be very careful while doing this.

How do you whip on a mountain bike? (Step-by-Step Guide)

To be a proficient mountain biker, you need to know how to whip on a mountain bike. It is a technique of turning the handlebars in order to make your bike turn quickly in the desired direction.

A Mountain Bike is a great way to explore the wilderness and off-road terrain. It also offers a more “back to nature” experience for many riders.

First of all, you have to know how to jump with your bike. If you don’t know how to jump here’s a useful article with helpful tips to jump.

It’s not always easy to get going when you’re on a mountain bike. You need to become aware of your body and use your core strength in order to get the momentum going, then continue using that momentum by leaning into the turns and following it through with your upper body.

A whip is a short, sharp, sudden turn that a rider performs to change directions quickly. It can be performed either by propelling oneself sideways from the bike and then back on again or by using the handlebars for leverage.

You should only try whip turns only when you want to avoid some obstacles or as an evasive maneuver in high-speed downhill sections.

So, here is the step-by-step guide we made especially for you that will show you how to whip on a mountain bike with ease:

1. Sit on your seat and push your weight back over the rear wheel
2. Hold onto the handlebars with both hands
3. Twist your upper body and arms into an L-shape
4. Pull up hard with one arm, while pushing down with the other arm and this will cause the bike to turn sharply in one direction
5. Keep repeating this process for each corner until you reach your destination.

Conclusion

Summing up, in this article we have mentioned several things related to mountain biking whips and how a mountain biker can perform a whip. Our suggestion before performing this trick is to get to know your bike very well, and know when and where to perform a whip. Also, you should avoid performing it if you are a beginner, inexperienced or if you want to avoid the risk of getting injured. In addition, it is essential for all the riders to wear all the important equipment in order to be safe and avoid difficult moments.

The post Why do mountain bikers whip? appeared first on Mountain Bikerz.

Bicycle chains are one of the most important parts of a bike, and they require proper maintenance to keep running smoothly. A well-maintained bicycle chain will be smoother, longer-lasting, and have fewer accidents because of a broken chain. Well, it depends on how you intend to use it. If you’re planning on cycling in hilly … Read more

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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, derive predominantly from vegetable 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 essential organic compounds. These are essential substances for the 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 aging and cancer.

Minerals (they have no calories) have bioregulative and protective function. 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 an adequate consumption of vegetables, meat, fish, eggs, milk and cheese (in moderation).

1. Bananas

Bananas are the classic natural supplement for anyone who rides a bike. Thanks to the 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.

2. Whey Protein

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.

3. Dried fruits and nuts

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 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 and 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.

4. Honey

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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