Tag Archive 'cycling'

Dec 29 2009

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Damian Papworth

A New Way Of Exploring The Outdoors: Mountain Biking

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There’s always some new sport brewing, whether it’s something more extreme that somehow makes its way to the mainstream, like skateboarding and rollerblading, or something so weird that not many people are ever going to take it up, like kiteboarding or skydiving. And most sports that have been created have something to do with invention and innovation, where there’s a need for a new use for an area, or an object.

A growing number of alternative sports for independent-minded people of all ages have been succeeding lately in The States, but nothing is doing quite as well as mountain biking, which has managed to carve out a niche previously only seen for skateboarders, who transformed from weirdos to mainstream. With a variety of different styles and methods, mountain biking is quickly sweeping the nation.

Rather than simply riding a bicycle across town, or even riding one around a track, mountain biking freed the bicycle from its pavement environment. Now, riding a bicycle was more about balance, since mountain trails had to be dealt with. Different riders, in urban areas, even put their own twist on things and figured out ways to make city riding challenging, taking to natural obstacles in much the same way that skateboarders did.

But more than that, there are different types of mountain biking, some of which spend time on more manicured surfaces, some who go all out and head to the middle of nowhere, and others where the riding is more built on creating one’s own type of style and implementing it, but in the dirt instead of out on the street.

The best way to get to know mountain biking is by getting to know the different categories of riding. There’s trails, where bicyclists can be either in a more urban area or off-road, but the main goal of hopping over different objects without placing feet on the ground. It looks a little bit like those courses with jumps and hills, but is a little more extreme.

Next, there’s dirt jumping, one of the other newer variations of the sport, which involves launching bicycles and riders off of man-made or naturally occurring jumps, where the object is to complete a series of tricks before landing on the ground. The protective gear for this is usually more extreme, and riders usually have a great deal of practice before heading into this style of riding.

Since not everyone has access to mountain trails or even large urban parks, a popular style for those living in cities, especially teenagers, is known as urban or street riding. The only gear needed here is a bicycle, usually one with a smaller frame and smaller wheels that is lighter to carry. Riders go out alone or in groups, and like skateboarders who used to figure out how to ride railings and sidewalks, do very much the same thing with their bicycles. Balance and creativity is a huge component to this style of riding.

The best jumping off point for most riders is simple cross-country, which can encompass any number of different environments, terrains, and conditions. A cross-country mountain bike ride can be a simple affair, with lots of break time to enjoy the weather, or it can be more strenuous and involve a great deal of attempting to ride uphill, to navigate slippery or muddy areas, or having to jump around obstacles.

There are also newer, more intense takes on previously existing forms of mountain biking seen as more professional and challenging. One, known as short cross or speed cross, pits riders against a very short, very challenging trail. Usually, there are a great deal more obstacles, and the trail is a lot thinner. This is not a good starting point, and is recommended for experts only.

No matter the style, there’s no mistaking how helpful this sport can be to building a connection for the young and the old alike with taking their sporting endeavors outside. Like many sports of innovation, mountain biking and all of its new forms is truly here to stay.

Damian Papworth adores the thrill of mountain biking, but always ensures he takes his bike water bottles for his trips. A cycling water bottle is so important to maintaining hydration in this grueling sport.

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Dec 04 2009

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Monique Mertrandes

Find Your Biking Trail on Breckenridge Mountain

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Mountain biking is very popular in Breckenridge. It is a natural consequence of the presence of various kinds of trails that brings the bikers closer to the stunning views of the mountains. And finding a bike is not a problem - there are a lot of hassle-free rental options.

Gains of Biking Breck: The biking season begins in spring, when the bikers can have their fill of colors wherever they look, as flowers start to bloom and the aspen leaves start budding. When summer comes, mild temperatures and the spectacular view of the mountain continue to create the ideal environment for a full day of biking. Lastly, fall brings its unique charm as the colorful aspen trees turn shimmering yellow to confirm that it is truly fall in Colorado.

Totally Friendly Biking: The wide range of terrain and trails is another major attraction why bikers find their way to Breckenridge. Extreme bikers can get as much challenge as the novice or group riders. For example, taking the Boreas Pass, an undemanding trail that is suitable for biking groups or families, brings bikers to a relaxed and educational trip. Along the way, bikers can stop by and examine the old water tanks or the old rail beds which are part of the historical remains of Breckenridge. Possibly, a trouble-free way to reach Boreas Pass is to leave everything except your bike by the Breckenridge Ice Rink, then embark on the climb to Boreas Pass Road, a wide path that takes riders all the way through the stunning aspen groves.

Gain from Your Pain: For bikers who want to ride to elevated trails, Breckenridge can provide those for them. They can try riding eleven miles to the highest part of Hoosier Pass, which is at the southern end of Breckenridge. The experience is a thrill for riders with the stamina to face the challenge. Bikers have the added thrill of sharing switchbacks with motorists as they persevere to reach the top which is over 11,000 feet above sea level. Along the way, the biker is rewarded by the exceptional view and the thought of conquering the top. No doubt, the combined difficulties from biking with motorists and the sharp elevation gain to Hossier Pass are challenges that only experienced bikers should attempt to try.

Mountain Biking: Perhaps, riding a bike is the best way to have a really good look around Breckenridge Ski Resort. Move toward Peak 9, going to the Beaver Run Resort in order to reach the Burro Trail, a perfect ride to forests and other beautiful part of Breckenridge. It is important to know that from Burro Trail, each turn brings visitors to other scenic places in Breckenridge. For instance, going to Spruce Creek Road is a good starting point to go down the mountain or proceed to McCullough Gulch.

Borrowing is Allowed: Going to Breckenridge can be trouble-free. Travelers need not worry about excess baggage since equipment like mountain bikes and their accessories needed for going to the trails are available at the Breckenridge rental shops. And one can rely on the options offered by Breckenridge rentals to find the right vacation homes, condos or townhomes. Visitors can instead spend more time on the trails or at any desired destination.

Mountain biking brings you to the best places in Breckenridge. So, do not wait any longer. Discover more beautiful places in Breckenridge with your bike.

Breckenridge Mountain Biking: A Trail for Everyone

Having lived in Breckenridge nearly all her life, Monique Mertrandes is a true local who loves seeing visitors get the most of their stay. She writes about everything from Breckenridge Lodging Deals to finding bargains on Breckenridge Vacation Homes.

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Oct 16 2009

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Grindy Finklestien

New Fuji Mountain Bike Innovations

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Each year the fuji mountain bike has made improvements to their mountain bikes so they will hold up to the rigors of off road and trail riding , to keep ahead of the competition and stay in the leadership position, they make improvements on just about every aspect of the bike from the frame ,wheels, and other critical components such as the gearing and suspension,you can rest assure these bikes are built like tanks and will take a beating.

Not just are fuji mountain bikes built well they are in addition built in favor of comfort intended for every one person,at hand are bikes made involving all sizes and and models with the intention of will fit precisely regarding most potential mountain bikers,a selection of frames and bikes might not continuously suit and you must know what size you need previously to making a acquisition. BY offering a giant range of bikes fuji has excelled within customer satisfaction,as soon as you sit on a fuji bike if its the proper size ,the bike ought to fit like is is specifically made to fit your body and that’s why this bicycle manufacturer has the highest rate of return customers participating in the bicycle industry.

Many riders desire a fuji mountain bike for the reason that of the excellence that persist inside the construction and quality of these wonderful bikes, in attendance are other essential factors taking part in choosing a mountain bike like your form of riding and what type of terrain you are riding on, if you cycle on lots of rough trails with rocks and roots protruding up from the ground you may possibly earnestly consider a dual suspension fuji mountain bike. Full suspension bikes are extreme but they weigh extra.

All of the aluminum frames that are made out of A6 aluminum which has a special makeup of various metals that have ultra strength (35% stronger than your average aluminum) and is super light. This type of aluminum will retain the same amount of strength after it has been welded which is good on those thinner areas of the construction.

One of the favorite bikes these days is the fuji 29er for the reason that it has huge wheels and additional clearance than the other bikes it is able to roll over other complicated terrain with no getting hung up besides it is able to travel further for every pedal stroke for the reason that of the bigger wheels,bigger is better on behalf of many riders.

The newest top of the line fuji mountain bike is the carbon dual suspension race bike,it is designed for cross country racing and has a carbon frame is stronger and lighter than aluminum and is supposed to weigh less than 24lbs,it comes with Fox shock this time ,also Reynolds carbon wheels and no doubt it will be costly but hey its the ultimate mountain bike.

If you are looking to obtain a pristine mountain bike seriously shop around and sort out a quantity of comparison of quality,ride,fit, and for definite value,you will be amazed how many companies are competing in favor of the off road bicycle marketplace but taking into account you have studied on this you will establish fuji is one of the a small number of most excellent choices next to the top of the mountain bike food chain.

A fuji mountain bike is built to make the greatest performance and exist the lightest bike appearing in its genre with no compromising strength or else quality,since the invent of special metals fuji uses like Altair 1&2 aluminum which is extraordinary grade aluminum with the aim of is shaped and twice butted to create the highest strength to weight ratio frames accessible that are made out of aluminum. It is imperative to give close attention concerning exactly what you are getting at what time you acquire a expensive mountain bike and all companies profess to bear the greatest merchandise,a few are the finest and or else are equals featuring in particular categories of bikes.

If your wanting to buy a new mountain bike consider looking at a Fuji Mountain Bike. Read about fuji bikes and what they have to offer for you mountain biking needs.

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Sep 01 2009

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Tabetha Luquin

Mountain Bike Tires - How To Choose The Right Tires

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The sort of tires you choose for your bike depends on what you use it for. Mountain bikes are used for many different things over different ground, and each discipline requires different tires. If you have the right tires for the job they will make it safer and improve your riding as well.

Tires come with either an inner tube to keep them inflated or they are tubeless,but the question is which kind should you use?

Most tubeless tires have a tough sidewall that locks into a sealed-bed rim. This kind of tires are hardy enough for rough terrain so they are good for downhill riding but they are expensive.

The benefits of an airtight seal and a durable, low pressure performance are outweighed by the cost. They also require a clean rim and tire to fit them, and a big pump to inflate them.

If a tire has to be replaced on a trail clean conditions are usually unavailable. Even with a CO2 cartridge pump you’ll probably have to use an inner tube to get you home, where you can the repair the tire. Although large holes can mean the tire has to be written off, even though small holes can often be fixed.

Tubeless tires are heavier than tires with inner tubes so if you are looking for fast start times and riding speeds choose a lighter tire. Inner tube tires also offer greater flexibility as you can get them in a wider range of design and tread styles.

You can now get kits to convert a conventional tire with an inner tube to a tubeless tire. These combine a latex-based filling liquid and a rubber rim strip to seal the inside of the tire and rim. You will probably have to top off the filler now and then, but the cost is still much less than a standard thick wall tubeless tire.

You will still get most of the benefits of a tubeless tire but with a much wider choice of treads and rims, and with only the cost of the kit and latex-based filler to pay for. They are lighter as well, but you might still get the same repair issues while on a trail.

Whatever tire you go for it is vital to replace them regularly. A blow out can cause injury and cost competitions. With the right selection and maintenance your tires will make a huge difference to your riding.

Get more advice on mountain bike tires and maintenance tips here.

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Aug 21 2009

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Tabetha Luquin

Mountain Bike Tyres - How To Choose The Right Tyres

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The type of tyres you use on your bike depends on its usage. Mountain bikes can be ridden on many different terrains and for different activities. You need different skills as well as different tyres for many of these. If you pick the right mountain bike tyres they will help your riding and make it safer.

Tyres either come with a standard inner tube to keep them inflated or they are tubeless, so the question to answer is which one do you go for?

Most tubeless tyres have a tough sidewall that locks into a sealed-bed rim. This kind of tyres are hardy enough for rough terrain so they are good for downhill riding but they are expensive.

The advantage of an airtight seal and a low=pressure, stable performance i has to be weighed up against the high cost. Also you need a clean tyre and rim to fit them, and a large pump to inflate them.

If a tyre has to be replaced on a trail clean conditions are usually unavailable. Even with a CO2 cartridge pump you’ll probably have to use an inner tube to get you home, where you can the repair the tyre. Although large holes can mean the tyre has to be written off, even though small holes can often be fixed.

Tubeless tyres are heavier as well, so if you need to get quick start times and riding speeds go for a lighter tyre. Tyres with inner tubes are lighter and offer more flexibility. They are also available in more treads and design styles, so getting the right tyre might be easier.

You can now get kits to convert a conventional tyre with an inner tube to a tubeless tyre. These combine a latex-based filling liquid and a rubber rim strip to seal the inside of the tyre and rim. You will probably have to top off the filler now and then, but the cost is still much less than a standard thick wall tubeless tyre.

You will still get most of the benefits of a tubeless tyre but with a much wider choice of treads and rims, and with only the cost of the kit and latex-based filler to pay for. They are lighter as well, but you might still get the same repair issues while on a trail.

Whatever tyre you go for it is vital to replace them regularly. A blow out can cause injury and cost competitions. With the right selection and maintenance your tyres will make a huge difference to your riding.

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Aug 03 2009

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David DuPont

Biking is Thriving Where Mountain Biking Began: Marin County, CA

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Whatever type of bicycling you prefer ” BMX, Mountain or Road bicycling, Marin is a great place to do it. The terrain popular with BMXers, as well as established biking trails, and paved bike pathways are all found throughout the County. It is quite well known that Marin County was the birthplace of Mountain biking. BMX and Mountain biking aside, the most popular form of biking nowadays is Road bicycling.

Beginning with some history, its interesting to know that well-known BMX biker Billy Savage lived and biked in Marin from 1976 to 1983, but BMX, as a category, isnt as common in Marin as the other types of biking.

Designed for stunts, tricks, and racing on hilly dirt BMX tracks, BMX bicycles have a have a single gear ratio with a freewheel and are built with smaller frames and wheels with wider, treaded tires. They have to be extremely sturdy machines because they take a beating during some extreme sporting events!

When BMX events were part of the 2008 Summer Olympics in China it was clear that BMX had finally arrived. There were events in four different venues, which was a first for the sport. Half of the first six medals in BMX racing ever awarded in the history of the Olympics went to U.S. cyclists.

Mountain biking is rough and tough going and a good day isnt complete without getting at least some mud in your teeth. The Web site www.klunkerz.com provides complete information about each of the individuals who participated in mountain biking in Marin during the 1970s to make it the world-class sport that it is today.

Joe Breeze, Gary Fisher and others converted cruisers and balloon-tire bicycles into machines that could weather any type of road conditions. Mountain biking pioneers did a lot of their biking on downhill trails they carved out around Mount Tamalpais in the 1970s.

Billy Savage recently directed a film about the early days of mountain biking in Marin called Klunkerz. In the process of making his film, what he found fascinating is that all the pioneers are very committed to the bicycle as transportation, and to the ecological and physical benefits of cycling to this day. They gave those old Klunkerz a new life, rescuing them out of trashcans and junkyards. They were reducing, reusing, and recycling long before it was hip to be green. They all continue to live this way in all aspects of their lives.

Road bicycling has become very popular in recent years as the county establishes more bike paths where serious road cyclists can do some serious biking. The Marin County Bicycling Coalition (www.marinbike.org) promotes safe bicycling for everyday transportation and recreation. Marin County is one of only four counties nationwide that are engaged in a federal Non-motorized Transportation Pilot Program that promotes road bicycling, particularly commuting. The goal of The Marin County Bicycle Coalition is for 20% of trips in Marin County to be made by walking or bicycling.

All the latest about this and other initiatives underway under the umbrella of this ambitious organization may be found on the MCBC Web site. One of the Web pages has links to a marvelous array of information-packed pages, including:

* (More than) 50 Good Reasons to Bicycle

* Basic Cycling Essentials

* Bike Riding for Fun

* Bicycle Etiquette

* Commuting By Bike

* Bicycle Map of Marin (free when joining the Marin County Bicycling Coalition)

* Riding directions via the North-South Greenway from San Francisco to Petaluma

* Riding over the Golden Gate Bridge

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Jul 14 2009

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Kyle Curtain

What To Consider When Buying A Mountain Bike

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Today, mountain biking is the primary recreation choice for millions of people worldwide, young, old and in between. It offers fun, excitement, and a good workout. Definitely the best way to see the countryside.

Naturally, popularity brings more choices and with more manufacturers, brands and different types of bikes available, it can sometimes be quite difficult to choose correctly. In this article we will discuss what you have to look for when shopping for a mountain bike.

The first thing you should decide on is your price range. You can spend a few hundred or a few thousand dollars on a bike. To keep things under control you should determine your price range and look at bikes within that range.

The next important step is to decide what kind of bike is right for you. There are different types of bikes for different needs. You can choose from all mountain, cross country, freeride, downhill or trail. Each type is designed for different terrain and riding style and has its own pros and cons.

One of the most important part of buying a new bike is choosing the right size. If the bike doesn’t fit you, you will be uncomfortable and won’t feel safe. Sizes usually refer to the frame sizes. Here are the most common frame sizes depending on your height: 17″ is for people between 5′4″ and 5′11″, 19″ for those between 5′11″ and 6′2″, and 21″ and up are for people that are taller than 6′2″.

If you choose the right time to buy a bike, you can save quite a bit of money. You should avoid the peak buying season - spring and summer. The best time to buy is fall and winter. In those months sales dip, plus next year’s models come out, so you’re more likely to get a good deal on older models.

And finally, don’t forget about safety and comfort. Helmet, water bottle, gloves, glasses and one of the most important pieces of biking gear you will ever buy - padded biking shorts.

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Jun 30 2009

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Alex Preston

Helpful Tips On Buying A Mountain Bike

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Today, mountain biking is extremely popular all around the world and still increasing in popularity. It’s fun, enjoyable, exciting and it keeps you in good physical shape. What’s there not to like?

Of course, with popularity comes more choice, but with so many manufacturers and brands and types and whatnot around, it has become quite a complicated task to choose the right mountain bike. Hopefully, this article will help.

The starting point of buying a mountain bike is to know what kind of riding will you do, so that you can choose the appropriate type. Because bikes are designed for different types of riding (casual, downhill, off-road, and so on), you need to know which type will suit your needs the best. Full suspension, front suspension or no suspension at all?

One of the most important aspects of buying a new mountain bike is choosing the right size. Size is important and it affects how you ride. Here are some general guidelines based on height: People shorter than 5′4″ usually go for 15″ or less, people between 5′4″ and 5′11″ are most comfortable with 17″, people between 5′11″ and 6′2″ prefer 19″, and people taller than 6′2″ choose 21″ or more.

When you’re buying a new bike, you probably want a decent-quality bike that will keep you happy for awhile. Something not to expensive and not to cheap either. You must know that during the year prices can notably fluctuate. The best time to buy is September, because next year’s models come out and prices go down.

There are many different parts of a bike. When looking for quality you have to check out the frame material, quality of the important components such as brakes, derailleurs, shift levers, suspension fork, and so on. As always, you get what you pay for, so don’t be to cheap. A full-suspension bike for less than $200 is not quality.

When you eventually buy a bike, don’t forget on other important pieces of biking gear - helmet, water bottle, tire pump, bike shorts (your behind will be grateful), gloves and glasses.

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Jun 30 2009

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Alex Preston

A Quick Overview On How To Buy A Mountain Bike

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In the last decade, mountain biking exploded in popularity. It’s healthy, fun, exciting, and a wonderful way to see the outdoors and keep you fit. It’s enjoyed all over the world by people of all ages, sizes and fitness levels.

Naturally, more demand brings more choices. Today, when there is so many manufacturers, brands, types, shapes and sizes, it can be quite difficult to choose a bike that suits you the best. Hopefully, this short guide will help you out.

The first thing you need to decide on is what type of bike will you buy. Will that be for off-road riding, will you need full suspension, front suspension or no suspension. Bikes are designed for different terrains and purposes. Before buying you should know what kind of riding will you do.

What size bike do I need? Simply put, you need a bike that fits you. Never buy a bike that doesn’t fit you. Common sizes are: 15″ or less (for people shorter than 5′4″), 17″ (for people between 5′4″ and 5′11″), 19″ (for people between 5′11″ and 6′2″), and 21″ and up (for people taller than 6′2″).

When is the best time to buy a mountain bike? If you can, try to avoid buying during the most popular seasons - spring and summer. Prices always fluctuate, depending on the season. The best time to buy is September, because new models arrive and the old stock is discounted. But don’t be to cheap, you do want a decent-quality bike. Remember, mountain bikes are not created equal.

When looking for quality, you have to pay attention to important components like brakes, brake levers, derailleurs, shift levers, suspension, etc. Without quality components you won’t get very far. And just so you know it, a full-suspension bike for $150 is not what you could call a quality product.

Biking gear is also essential. Don’t forget a helmet, water bottle, speedometer, gloves, glasses and a decent pair of padded biking shorts. Trust me, your behind will be thankful.

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Jun 24 2009

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Alex Preston

Historical Facts About Mountain Bikes

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Today, mountain biking is one of the top ranked recreation activities that can be enjoyed by everyone, regardless of size, age or ability. It certainly is a great way to keep fit and it can take you to places you probably would never have discovered otherwise.

When did bikes begin to be build as special bikes for off-road riding? Mountain Biking first appeared during the 1970s in California. Tom Ritchey, Gary Fisher, Joe Breeze, Keith Bontrager, and many others were the pioneers who modified chunky bikes and ride them down mountain tracks.

In the early days, mountain biking was perceived as quite a risk. In fact, it was. First mountain bikers were purely downhillers. They would race only downhill, to get up a mountain they used a truck. Because the slopes were more than those first bikes could handle, they started modifying and improving, which lead to the first real mountain bikes.

The first real purpose built mountain bike is generally credited to Joe Breeze. The year was 1978. Other giants in mountain bike development like Gary Fisher, Tom Ritchey and Charlie Kelly soon followed.

Since the 70s much has changed. Technology and popularity has improved tremendously. In the 90s mountain biking really exploded. Few of the pioneers who rode down the rocky trails of Mt Tamalpais, would have believed how widespread their passion would become. Are you aware that mountain biking is an Olympic sport? It is.

Mountain bikes have really improved over the years. From the disc brakes, which are actually quite similar to the brakes on a car or a motorcycle, to sophisticated suspension. There are affordable mountain bikes for any kind of terrain - downhill, cross country, all-mountain, trials or freeride. Depending on your interest and goals, you have many choices today.

It’s true that bicycles have been ridden off-road since their invention, but it wasn’t until the invention of the mountain bike that off-road biking became wildly popular mainstream activity.

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