[I:http://www.picmig.com/freedownloads/wp-content/uploads/2010/05/KeithRejino0.jpg] Beads of sweat poured down my face as I trekked up the sloped hill looking for the best photo shoot location. I was back shooting sports again after my short sabbatical. Today’s photo shoot was at the California Golden State Championship mountain bike event in Fontana, CA on May 15th.

The cross country mountain bikers flying down the rocky trail on the multi-lap course I’d seen before, or at least, most of them. Today, I preferred to shoot the MTB riders looking good on the downhill portion of the course. A race volunteer advised that most of the mountain bikers were walking up the tough uphill portion.

This was the third race in a four event series put on by SRC and major sponsor Kenda. With the Fontana sun blaring down, it was a reminder that the next SRC summer event in August would be more challenging for these mountain bike riders.

The multi-lap course was a mixture of rolling fire roads and single track trails with one major climb and descent. Near the top of the course on the big downhill section, the mountain bikers navigated an almost 90 degree turn before shooting down the rocky fire trail. Many of the MTB riders smiled for the camera, but after the first few laps, most had no energy for a pose.

David Santos captured 1st place in the XC mountain bike race in 1:29:07 with 2nd and 3rd place going to Griffith Vertican and Garnet Vertican in 1:34:07 and 1:41:05, respectively. For the women’s race, Heather Rose took 1st place and a fourth overall finish against the men in 1:53:12.

For the women’s downhill competition, Gabriela Williams captured 1st with Kelly Damschen taking 2nd place. In the men’s division, David Klaassen VanOorschot was the fastest of the day with Rich Houseman and Ryan Egusquiza picking up the 2nd and 3rd place slots.

Heather Rose, the women’s XC mountain bike winner, captured another victory in the women’s Super D. The men’s division leaders were Ryan Equsquiza in 1st followed by Eric Bierman in 2nd place.

For Mountain Bike Information, check out Keith Rejino’s website at Dreamscape Images mountain bike website for mental training tip, mtb news and sport nutrition guidelines.

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Tags: bicycling, bike, bike riding, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bike, mountain bike race, mountain biking, mtb, sport, sporting event, sports

Whether you ride competitively or just for enjoyment, we all seem to love gadgets on our bicycles. Some items offer extra convenience and some a bike rider should not be without. Here are our top 5 bicycling gadgets.

The extra items you put on your bicycle will depend on how you ride your bike. Are you a hard-core rider, going on trails for hours at a time? Or do you just ride for an hour here and there at a leisurely pace?

1. Bike rack

If you want to explore different locations, you’ll need some way to get your bike there besides riding it. Your bike rack needs to be able to carry more than one bike especially if you ride with family. For competitors, you can bring a spare bike for practice or in case of problems. What you are looking for is one that secures the bikes without too much wiggling of the wheels or handlebars. If you choose a rack that sits on top of your car remember the increased height when going under overpasses or through tunnels.

2. Bike computer

Some may think this is excessive, but it really is a handy tool to have if you want to track how far you have ridden. A bike computer can keep track of speed, mileage, elapsed time of the trip, and clock time, among other things. Some computers are more sophisticated than others and track more things.

3. Water Bottle

This comes as a standard on many bicycles today, but if you don’t have one, you need to add it. The first time you take a long drink after a hard ride, you’ll be happy you added it.

4. Pedal Clips

Clips are very useful for keeping your feel from slipping off the pedals. It may seem that this makes it more difficult to stop, especially to a new bike rider, because you have to take your feet out of the clips before putting them down. But in reality, pedal clips make it easier on your feet.

5. Bicycle Panniers

These are bicycle bags that attach to the bike. They are much better than carrying stuff in a backpack because they leave the rider free to concentrate on the ride instead of worrying about the bag shifting and making the rider unbalanced. You can put all kinds of handy things in them such as your phone, a first aid kit, a tool kit for unforeseen repairs, food, and a jacket (you never know when a storm will come up suddenly). Having all this gear on the bike itself allows the rider to just enjoy the ride.

Dan Goulski knows the importance of biking gadgets, such as the cycling water bottle. That’s why he created a site all about it, called http://www.cyclingwaterbottle.org.

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Tags: bicycle, bicycling, biking, cycling, exercise, mountain bike, mountain biking, outdoors, sports

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 regular bike riding, which involves pavement and less attention paid to the surroundings, mountain biking is something where going off-road is par for the course. The terrain encountered while mountain biking is uneven, difficult, and tough sometimes to even walk on.

Yes, during the course of mountain biking, there have been many developments in different styles and techniques. Whether it’s learning to do a backflip while flying through the air or just going out and riding a designated trail for a couple of hours, there are many different approaches to the sport of mountain biking, all of them correct, fun, and healthy.

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.

For most people with access to the trails, the obvious starting off point for riding is to begin with cross-country mountain biking. Just as simple as the name sounds, cross-country is all about the bicycle and the terrain, with no added obstacles or epic jumps. Cross-country riders have larger, more durable bicycles, and tackle everything from bumpy uphill trails to muddy, tricky downhill slopes. It’s a great way to learn about balance and endurance.

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.

Whether it’s a relaxing day out on a simple and easy to ride trail, or a gutsy afternoon of taking on different jumps and courses, mountain biking is a hugely valuable and helpful sport in getting people back outside, enjoying nature. Even in urban areas, the change between exercising indoors and finally enjoying fresh air again is apparent, and very helpful for teenagers, children, and adults alike.

Damian Papworth adores the excitement of mountain biking, but always ensures he fills his bike water bottles before he goes. A cycling water bottle is so important to maintaining hydration in this grueling sport.

categories: mountain biking,cycling,biking,extreme,health and fitness,exercise,fitness,sport,sport and,recreation,health,travel,lifestyle,people

Technorati Tags: biking, cycling, exercise, extreme, fitness, health, Health and Fitness, lifestyle, mountain biking, people, recreation, sport, sport and, travel

Tags: biking, cycling, exercise, extreme, fitness, health, Health and Fitness, lifestyle, mountain biking, people, recreation, sport, sport and, travel

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

Technorati Tags: cycling, exercise, fitness, health, marin county california, mountain biking, san francisco bay area travel, sports

Tags: cycling, exercise, fitness, health, marin county california, mountain biking, san francisco bay area travel, sports

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.

Technorati Tags: bicycling, biking, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation

Tags: bicycling, biking, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation

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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Tags: bicycling, biking, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation

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.

Technorati Tags: bicycling, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation

Tags: bicycling, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation

Mountain biking is growing fast into an excitingly popular sport possible for people of all ages, sizes and abilities. Mountain Biking is for everyone, young, old, or in-between. It’s a great way to be outdoors and to stay fit. A wonderful activity for the whole family.

Mountain biking was born in the 70s on Mount Tamalpais, better known as Mt. Tam, in California, USA. A group of enthusiasts consisting of famous names like Gary Fisher, Joe Breeze, Keith Bontrager and Otis Guy among others, started modifying the heavy Cruiser bikes to be used for riding down the mountain trails. The mountain bike was born.

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 mountain bike made with all new components was build in 1978 by Joe Breeze. Other giants in the field like Gary Fisher, Tom Ritchey, Charlie Kelley and Charlie Cunningham just to name a few, soon followed.

By 1986 the mountain bike was outselling the road bike in the US. Soon it exploded worldwide. When the first mountain bikers propelled down the mountains in California, few would have believed how popular this new sport would become. Today, it’s an Olympic sport.

In the last decade or so, mountain bikes have improved immensely. New materials and technology really enhanced the performance on every level imaginable. Today you have affordable bikes for any kind of adventure. You can choose from downhill, cross country, all-mountain, or trials. There is a mountain bike for just about everybody.

Mountain biking is a relatively new sport and recreational activity. From a bunch of enthusiasts to a mainstream sport, mountain biking is still growing and is here to stay.

Technorati Tags: bicycling, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation

Tags: bicycling, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation

Mountain biking is a fantastic mix of fun and outdoor exercise. It’s suitable for everyone, regardless of age, gender, size, ability, experience or previous exercising history. What you need is a bike, helmet, and a bit of willingness.

Mountain bikes are designed for different styles and terrain. Before you buy one, you should know what kind of riding you will do. Will that be cross country, downhill/freeride, all-mountain, or trials? Different styles, different bikes.

Each style of mountain biking has a corresponding type of mountain bike. Each type of mountain bike is designed for different kinds of terrain and obstacles and has its own pros and cons. So you should be clear about your riding preferences.

Downhill/Freeride bikes are designed to take huge drops and hits while speeding down hills on rough terrain. They are very durable and heavy, they have full suspension and a limited selection of gears, sometimes only 7-9. They don’t perform very well uphill, but have no competition down.

All-mountain bikes combine the advantages of cross country and downhill/freeride bike types. They are made to be a match for almost any situation and are suitable for both climbing and descending on a variety of different terrains.

If you’re looking for light and all-round efficient mountain bike, consider Cross-Country. These bikes are most suitable for the average mountain biker, who doesn’t go in the extremes. They are light, they offer full selection of gears (generally 27) and will do great for climbing up hills as going down.

Trial mountain bikes don’t look anything like mountain bikes. They have smaller, lower frames and some types come without a saddle. They’re set up specifically for bike trials.

OK, so you know what type of mountain bike you want, but which brand to choose, there are so many? I myself prefer Iron Horse, but brand name is really not very important here. You should look at the quality of the components. How sturdy is the frame, how good is suspension and brakes and so on. That is what is important.

So there you have it. Now jump on your bike and enjoy the ride. Don’t forget a helmet!

Technorati Tags: biking, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation

Tags: biking, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bikes, mountain biking, recreation