All Mountain Biking involves a mixture of fitness and machine control. Getting started is often simply a case of getting a basic mountain bike (a simple Cross-Country hardtail is ideal) and going out and exploring the local countryside.
Bicycles can legally use bridleways and Britain has a superb network of these - learn to use a map and compass and get out and enjoy yourself. Alternatively, visit one of the many trails centres in Wales, with graded runs from blue for the beginner to black for the expert. A number have skills areas and also deliver mtb coaching sessions for riders new to the sport through to intermediates.
Riding competently off-road is a skill which develops through experience and practice. The very best riders can perform miracles, but every cyclist can master the basics and enjoy the challenge of riding away from roads.
One of the best ways to learn off-road skills is by watching other riders. Riding in a group also has added safety benefits. It therefore makes sense to join a club.
The pleasure of riding in a traffic-free environment cannot be understated. Mountain Biking also puts you closely in touch with nature and the landscape and every ride has the potential to become a mini adventure. However, for some, the ultimate test is to start racing.
Thinking About Racing
Beginners usually find their feet in the numerous Cross-Country events which are run at club level all round the country. Cross-country is a natural starting point for all Mountain Bike racing as it is far less technically challenging than Downhill and a relatively inexpensive bike will suffice whilst you learn the ropes.
Cross-Country events usually have several races catering for a range of abilities and age groups and are an ideal environment in which to learn the bike handling and tactical skills necessary to succeed. Look out for Fun categories - there are also often categories for younger riders and age related categories for over-thirties. Go Race MTB/Go Ride Racing caters for the under 16’s in a safe and controlled environment. A British Cycling membership and licence are usually needed for regional and national events.
If you are under sixteen, the category system ensures that you compete against others of a similar age. Adult categorisation is based more on ability. As they become more successful, riders progress through Sport, Senior and Expert categories and the very best become "Elite" category riders. There are also a range of categories for older riders, based on age.
Progression through the adult categories is through a national ranking system, administered by British Cycling, which rewards successful riders with points based on the length and difficulty of an event. Before you start racing, familiarise yourself with the rules of the sport, which include this system.
Don't forget that, during the autumn and winter months, Cyclo-Cross events are usually open to mountain bikes, are cheap to enter and offer the chance to hone racing skills on non-technical courses and improve cycling fitness.
Get into Downhill
Many riders who enjoy the thrill of technically challenging Mountain Biking turn to Downhill. If you find you're naturally quick through technical terrain and you enjoy learning about the limits of handling off-road, then this may be the disciplines for you. But don't just think that good skill levels will suffice: although the races are short, they require high levels of fitness and strength.
Downhill riders often get into the sport via completely different routes to Cross-Country riders. Many of them come from the "street" end of trials riding, BMX and dirt jumping. There is also a considerable cross-over from BMX racing and, interestingly, from off-road motorcycling disciplines such as Trials and Moto-Cross.
Downhill - Where to Begin
Wherever you're coming from, if you fancy a crack at Downhill, you can't beat going to watch regional and national events for getting a feel for the sport. There's also a growing number of organised "uplift" days, where you can practice on a full-blown Downhill course with transport to the top of the hill and event insurance thrown in. These events are a great stepping stone to competition proper. Check out www.britishcycling.org ‘events calendar’ for details of events.
Please check with the landowner before using any courses where there is no formal organisation: the sport has lost many facilities over the years through thoughtless misuse. For the beginner, local events on shorter and less challenging courses are available in some areas.
What Category?
Downhill events usually have several classes catering for a range of abilities and age groups. Look out for Novice categories - there are also often categories for younger riders. A British Cycling membership and license are usually needed for regional and national events. In return, British Cycling ensures that appropriate insurance is in place when you race and that organisers take their responsibilities seriously.
