Migration Photos

[youtube:82DzpLZ547I?fs=1;[link:Elings Park SoCal Mountain Bike Racing_Dreamscape Images];http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82DzpLZ547I?fs=1&feature=related]The pale gray sky reminded me of the east coast, not the beautiful horizon of Santa Barbara. Some local hikers trekked up the path and I asked what happened to the California weather. They reminded me it was June glum; the weather condition occurring mostly in June when the fog rolls into the California coastline to paint a dreary scenery.

Today, the beneficiaries of June glum were the Cat 3 riders at the Elings Park mountain bike race. The cool weather was sure to keep dehydration problems to a minimum. For the late Cat 1 starters, that was not the case as the sun pierced the morning fog by midday.

The Elings Park mountain bike event is one of the largest in the area and sure to remind people that Santa Barbara is one of the premier places in California to take a trip with the family. With its lush green hills overlooking the Pacific Ocean, it’s a good idea to bring a camera along for the memories.

To capture some speed in motion, I decided to bring out the video camera today. With its mix of single track trails and fire roads on a multi-lap course with plenty twist and turns, there would be many opportunities to capture some good footage.

With the hills on this course, a solid warm-up is mandatory. Shortly after the start of the race…you are going vertical. The race is made up of fire roads and single track trails, which climb to the top of Elings Park before descending. During the second lap near the beginning, the course turns off from the first lap trail and tackles plenty of winding trails and U-Turns to the top.

After capturing some video and still images, I found an excellent shooting position on the second lap ascent. The day was going as planned. So far, I had not fallen down any hills with my camera gear. Later in the day, I realized the day was still young.

The Cat 1 and 2 riders looked strong as the sun welcomed the riders with high 70 degree temperatures. My goal today was to capture these mountain bikers at close range so I climbed the hills surrounding the course to find the best angle and the heart beat of this race. After slipping down a few hills, I managed to create some serious ventilation in my clothing - an eight inch rip in my jeans from the crotch down the pant leg. Thankfully, anyone coming my way only cared about one thing going fast.

The MTB racers were given a splendid view of the Pacific Ocean once they climb to the top of the course. However, with the winding trails, the view was short lived.

Deep in some bushes with the winding, single track trail looping around me, I managed to find a good shooting point where I could capture the MTB competitors riding the twisting trail in front of me.

After capturing a few riders and satisfied I got the footage necessary, I managed to checkout my surroundings. It was at that moment that I realized one of the disadvantages of being in the zone. There I stood with an eight inch tear down my pant leg surrounded by poison ivy! The Elings Park mountain bike race will always hold a special memory for me. It reminded me that I too have to watch the path in front of me.

If you are looking for a great race to take the family for a few days, the Elings Park mountain bike race is one of the best. Put together by Team Big Bear, the race is sure to challenge your mountain bike fitness level.

Staying on the trail is highly recommended.

Keith Rejino is a sports photographer for Dreamscape Images, a personal trainer, triathlete and MTB rider. His Socal Mountain Bike website provides mountain bike event coverage, training and sports nutrition tips for the mountain biker. For more mountain bike event coverage, check out Dreamscape Images MTB site.

Technorati Tags: bike, bike racing, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bike, mountain bike race, mountain bike racing, mountain biking, mtb race, sports, sports competition

Tags: bike, bike racing, cycling, exercise, fitness, mountain bike, mountain bike race, mountain bike racing, mountain biking, mtb race, sports, sports competition

If you struggle to stay fit and trim in the off season, then using a turbo trainer may be the answer!

The turbo trainer clamps your rear wheel into a roller which (either magnetic or wind) provides the resistance to help you train like you would on the road.

Get fit this winter with a turbo trainer:

* Set up your turbo trainer in the garage and escape the cold and wet weather

* If you have suffered an injury, such as a broken collarbone you can use the static bike to help ease back into your training

* If you need to train on your sprinting, then the turbo trainer can help you by providing massive resistance for building your sprinting muscles

* Why not get a few people together and make winter turbo training a fun team sport. If you get a load of buddies together you can help each other push harder, train better and why not club together and hire a hall with a large music system!

Turbo training can be boring, so it’s important to know this before you spend a months wages on the best you can - you need to understand that your body will hurt during the first few sessions, this means many people use them a few times and then stop.

You need to see if you enjoy turbo training before you spend a vast amount of money on one - so restrict spending to around 100/$150. There is no need to spend a massive amount of money if you are starting out - wait until you know you really enjoy using a trainer first.

If you really enjoy it - then the next level takes you into adjustment, readouts (showing power output, calories burned etc).

Top end turbo trainers have virtual reality features and you can plug them into your computer and race in virtual reality - some of the better models from Tacx even allow you to race people in other countries live!

Johnny Ratcliffe is a semi-pro racing cyclist from the United Kingdom and trains extensively on turbo trainers all fall. His site Turbo Trainer has more information, and you can purchase by visiting: Best Turbo Trainers

categories: training,turbo training,cycling,mountain biking,road racing,cycling,bikes,exercise,fitness,health

Technorati Tags: bikes, cycling, exercise, fitness, health, mountain biking, road racing, training, turbo training

Tags: bikes, cycling, exercise, fitness, health, mountain biking, road racing, training, turbo training

All adventure sports have their set of must have accessories and gears. Basically these are required to maintain safety and comfort to the riders. Here we get a rough idea of these must have items and what are their uses and importance in mountain Biking.

All adventure sports have their set of must have accessories and gears. Basically these are required to maintain safety and comfort to the riders. Here we get a rough idea of these must have items and what are their uses and importance in mountain biking.

Mountain Bike Gear - Choice of the Biker

There are a number of mountain biking accessories available in the market at vide price range. But it’s the personal responsibility of those involved in this sport to choose what is extremely important for them and whether it suits their budget. It is also important to carry spare parts depending on the type of bike in question.

Basically the list accessories required for mountain biking depends mostly on the type of bike used and the kind of event, even the time of event contributes in deciding what is required and what is not. Generally all mountain bikers carry helmets and gloves, but serious racers have to carry elbow and kneepads compulsorily as falling off is very common. All these accessories are extremely necessary for the biker’s safety.

While participating in overnight events it is extremely important to include headlight and taillight in the must carry list. The headlight illuminates the path ahead, thus allowing you to keep moving, whereas the taillight helps you to stay visible to the riders behind you. These lights are usually operated with the help of batteries charged by generators or re-chargers.

Quality bikes, worth the high price

A well-trained rider who performs stunts and ventures on extreme grounds prefers the fully rigid mountain bike. These bikes have soft rubber tires to increase traction and double ply rims to prevent dents.

They also carry an extra set of tires to avoid delay due to flat tires. Kick stand are mostly removed to prevent accidents.

Nowadays using end pieces on the handlebars has become a common practice, since major falls are very common in mountain biking. These end pieces prevent the hollow bars from puncturing. Generally these end pieces can be fitted on straight or slightly bent handlebars and not on curved or racing handlebars.

Nowadays there are many mountain bike resorts offering their services to these thrill seekers. Unlike ski resorts, these mountain bike resorts have special lifts to elevate these bikers to the top of the hill, from where they can ride downhill. So once a rider feels he is well trained and has all the required equipment he can venture out the slopes and enjoy the thrill.

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Technorati Tags: adventure, biking, flat tires, Kick stand, mountain biking, riding

Tags: adventure, biking, flat tires, Kick stand, mountain biking, riding

Whatever objective you might have, you will need tips, pointers, advice that can help achieve it. When you understand or be aware of “do’s” along with the “don’t’s” it will also help enormously in achieving your ultimate goal. You will discover 3 significant tips to help you offered in this article. Try this advice and you should be confident of getting enhanced outcomes.

When you decide to go mountain biking, it truly is essential that you do things right. If you do not, the results may very well be devastating. You can find yourself thown from your bike, or maybe find yourself dead . Listed below are 3 things which are required on your next biking trip …

1. Wear head gear

You must buy and wear a good helmet , it will save your valuable head in the event you crash mainly because it will soften the blow to your head any time you fall off your bike. Failing to achieve this may well end up with you having a head trauma. So take care to do this right and don’t make the mistake of forgetting this indispensable step !

2.Mountain bike shoes

Very nearly as vital as wearing head gear ,is having the right mountain biking shoes when your going mountain biking . I’m letting you know, this isn’t a thing to leave out. It helps in making your bike ride more enjoyable , and safe, and that is something everybody interested in mountain biking wants .

3. Hydration system

Lastly, when you are going mountain biking you will want to possess a hydration system . You will want to make sure that you drink a lot of water. This way your body stays properly hydrated all the time .

If you don’t, you will become dehydrated and I think we are able to agree this will not be a good thing!

You may think these pointers are routine knowledge ,but each year a lot of mountain biker’s are hurt , from not implementing these simple safety tips

Learn more about mountain biking at

Technorati Tags: mountain biking

Tags: mountain biking

Downhill mountain biking tips revolve round braking. Be sure that on the descent, you do not grip the brakes to laborious, which will outcome in the bike skidding and falling. Downhill riders are these looking for thrills in the form of fast descents. Many downhill riders use automobiles or lifts to reach the peak of the mountain earlier than racing back to the bottom by bike. Downhill mountain bike driving has to be probably the most exhilarating, adrenaline pumping activities you are able to do on a mountain bike. It’s also probably the most harmful, the place wipe outs are all too common.

Mountain biking locations a lot increased calls for on every a part of the bike. Jumps and impacts can crack the body or injury the derailleurs or the tire rims, and steep, quick descents can shortly wear out brake pads. Mountain biking takes an incredible quantity of physical strength and endurance, so construct as much as it slowly. Mountain Biking Marin gives efficient bike skill clinics that will help you enhance your mountain biking technical riding. Our bike clinics mix expertise concept and apply via technical using appropriately custom-made so that you can speed up your progress.

Mountain biking tips in USA is very large, actually IMBA named Scotland as a mountain biking world superstar. To present you an idea of what is accessible we have put together a collection of mountain biking podcasts, which you’ll find by clicking on the players below. Mountain biking and different bicycling is allowed on sure roads and trails in tips Mountain biking, particularly, has expanded rapidly. In this announcement it reported “an estimated 13.5 million mountain bicyclists visit public lands annually to benefit from the variety of trails.

Riders are cautioned to be particularly cautious at these areas and anywhere else the trail approaches a cliff, modifications grade, or crosses rutted rock. Riders should bring a helmet and water. Experience ranges are advanced beginner and above. Riders converge to benefit from the area’s attractive valleys, canyons, cliffs, and ridges, and quite a lot of trails crisscrossing every doable sort of terrain.

Highway driving takes you along the countryside and through city areas. Biking is a viable form of transportation. Highway and observe biking have been Olympic sports activities for an extended time. Roads are designed with out pedestrian or bike paths, office and shopping parks are designed across the car, and even the most effective transit programs may be incompatible with bike use. It is time to revisit all federal insurance policies to higher accommodate the energy and environmental well being priorities of the 21st century.

Road using takes you along the countryside and through urban areas. Cycling is a viable form of transportation. Road and monitor cycling have been Olympic sports activities for an extended time. Roads are designed without pedestrian or bike paths, office and purchasing parks are designed across the automobile, and even the best transit methods may be incompatible with bike use. It’s time to revisit all federal insurance policies to raised accommodate the energy and environmental health priorities of the twenty first century.

Looking to find the best deal on Mountain Biking Tips, then visit www.mountainbikingtips.net to find the best advice on Mountain Biking Tips for you.

Technorati Tags: biking tips, mountain biking, mountain biking tips

Tags: biking tips, mountain biking, mountain biking tips

For those who covet active lifestyles, road bikes make the perfect accessories. For those interested in cheap and casual commuting and training for triathlons, these type of bikes are great. Certain things should be considered, however, for people who are interested in buying a road bike in Melbourne.

Road bicycles also serve important purposes for their users. They can be a inexpensive and highly efficient forms of transportation as they require only a little maintenance. They’re also ideal for athletes who are training thanks to their multiple gear modes and sturdy builds.

Most bike hobbyists faced with the decision of buying a new road bike often debate on whether or not to go with a previously owned one. With road bicycles, most people will tell you that purchasing a new one is the preferred option. Although there are some excellent used bicycles available, many will still cost a lot. That, paired with the warranties that bike stores often throw in, it’s generally best to go with a new bike.

Before a quest for the perfect bicycle can take place, you should first decide upon the make and model of road bike that will fit your specific needs. How you intend to use the new device should help determine the type you buy. The materials it is constructed from will make a big difference also.

To begin your bicycle search, check out local bike shops and online websites and ads. Good road bikes can be quite expensive so it is important that you look around and get the best deal possible. Many specialty shops will throw in warranties and free tune ups as well so make sure and keep your eyes peeled for these special offers.

When you look at potential bicycles in person, the best thing you can accomplish is getting a fit. Ask an experienced salesperson or manager measure your dimensions in the shop. Every make of road bike is inconsistent so picking the wrong one for your body type can end with damaged shoulders or a sore neck.

Finally, before making your final decision, be sure to have an idea of your budget in mind. A road bike can range in price from five thousand dollars down to one hundred. You’ll be less likely to have a salesman pressure you into purchasing something you can’t afford if you know how much you can spend beforehand. That being said, never do business with a salesman or store that uses force as a sales method.

In conclusion, road bikes can be wonderful investments whether you just enjoy riding a bike to work or are looking to train seriously for an event. Before you get one, be sure and do your research and find out which type of bike will work best for your needs. Whether it is aluminum or steel, the type of material a bike is made of is a big decision too. Be sure to stay on budget and get fitted for your bike by a trusted professional and soon you’ll have a trusted bike that should last you a number of years.

Find fabulous prices on bicycles for sale Melbourne by searching online. Find the many types of giant road bike choices you have. Head online today and learn more.

Technorati Tags: cycling, cycling Australian, cycling Melbourne, fitness, mountain biking, sports and recreation

Tags: cycling, cycling Australian, cycling Melbourne, fitness, mountain biking, sports and recreation

Many people enjoy the hobby of biking in the mountains because it is an adventurous activity that also provides a lot of excitement. In addition, it is something that can be quite physically challenging and even draining for those who engage in vigorous rides. The most important aspects for enjoying positive outings is having a high quality mountain bike and the right bike gear along with you for the ride.

While many people spend a great deal of time and money to get a really good mountain bike, some do tend to overlook the importance of the bicycle gear that should be taken along with you.

There is a large selection of different bike accessories that you can choose from to have with you on your biking adventures. Those that should be on the priority list of things to include for an outing are the items that will keep your bike running in top condition on the trails. Most mountain bikers will agree that a tube kit should be the first item of bike gear you pack when preparing to hit the trails.

It is also very wise to include a small set of tools that are just the right size for making minor adjustments to the bike while you are out on the trails. Having a set of Allen wrenches, a crescent wrench, screwdrivers and other tools specific for your bike are basic items that should be in every bike kit.

Lighting is important as well. You should always include reflectors on the spokes, a lighted reflector on the back of your bike, and a powerful light on the front of your bike to illuminate the trail or road after dark.

If you will be riding in intense heat, you’ll need to find ways to keep cool. You should choose clothing that helps perspiration to evaporate quickly so it doesn’t cling to your body and keep you feeling hot. Another good choice is an evaporative cooling vest, which is made from special fabric that, when wet, absorbs heat from the body and releases it.

Each of these bike gear accessories are important to a safe ride and they should not be left out when you are getting ready to go on your mountainous cycling routes. Another accessory that many mountain bikers feel is essential is a high quality bike seat that can increase not only your comfort but your safety as well.

Click here to learn more about cooling vests that will keep you comfortable out on the trail.

Technorati Tags: biking gear, cycling, mountain biking, mountain biking gear

Tags: biking gear, cycling, mountain biking, mountain biking gear

The great thing about mountain biking is that as well as being lots of fun it is also a great way to get fit. As you probably already know there’s lots of different kinds of mountain bikes available. So which one should you choose?

Here are a few tips on the different models to consider before making a decision.

Probably the most obvious type of mountain bike available to you is a cross country one. They’re usually very lightweight and can be used on almost any terrain. They’re great for going up steep hills and mountains.

The great thing about cross country mountain bikes is that not only can you use them for going up hills and mountains and difficult terrain but you can use them as a daily bike to go to the shops or to work.

Another very popular mountain bike that you may want to consider for downhill mountain biking is a downhill bike. Downhill bikes have excellent suspension on the back and the front. And they also have excellent disc brakes to help with braking.

A good bike for serious mountain bikers is trail bikes. Many trail bike owners actually build their own bike. Trail bikes are for precise mountain biking and this is a sport for more advanced bikers however these bikes are excellent.

Another option if you want to do street biking or stunts and jumps is to get one of these types of bikes. Because you’re using them to do tricks and jumps they are the strongest types of bikes you can get.

The jump and slalom bikes are very popular among biking enthusiasts. The front suspension and strong components make for a very sturdy mountain bike.

Mountain biking is extremely fun it’s extremely important to get the right mountain bike for you. Seeing as you’re probably going to use it for a good few years treat it as an investment and get a good one that suits you.

Getting the right mountain bike is extremely important. So take a bit of time to do your research and look around for the perfect bike. Don’t just rush in and get the first when you see. Take your time and you will enjoy your mountain bike for a long time to come.

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Technorati Tags: biking, mountain biking

Tags: biking, mountain biking

There is a lot to explore while Australia. With so many different types of terrain, there is a need for different ways to get around. This is especially true when considering bike riding. Buying bikes in Melbourne can be a real treat. There is a lot of hilly terrain and the best type of bike would be BMX. If that is not your style, then Melbourne offers plenty of places to ride around in the city also. Choosing a bike can be difficult, because there are so many options to choose from.

With so many different bikes to choose from, some buyers can get confused. It doesn’t take much information to know what you should get. With a few tips, you should be able to do just fine.

Know what you want. When you go without prior research, it can be very difficult to select what you want. One of the best resources to go to are the people that work in the bike shop. They probably love biking and can offer a lot of advice. Just remember, the advice is free, the bike isn’t.

You can also research on the internet. Understand the basics of bike riding. There are different bikes for every kind of terrain. If you like to go off road then a BMX is the ticket. If you like speed, then a racing bike would be for you. Decide what kind of bike riding experience you want, then research that are of riding.

Knowing what bike you want means know what terrain you will be riding on. If you know Australia, then you know that there are several opportunities for adventure. Plan ahead about what parts of the city you would like to visit. If you plan a route, then you will know which bike to get. If your route leads you over rough roads, then make sure that your bike can handle it.

When you choose your bike, remember to take it out for a test before you buy it. This is the only real way to know if you and the bike are suited for one another. The bike shops should be OK with you taking a test ride. If you find that you are having trouble with the bike, then you should not get it. The ride should be easy, and smooth. If it has been some time since you last rode, then also take that into consideration. After a few minutes, you should be able to go full speed again.

When you buy a bike without assembly, then it could be a long day of trying to put it together. See if the shop offers this service. That way you know the bike is sturdy and you won’t be constantly second guessing your work. It might cost a little bit extra, but it will be completely worth it. If you miss one bolt or screw, then you could be headed for an injury. Speaking of injury, while you are looking for a bike, also take a look at some of their protective gear. A helmet may look ridiculous, but it is a few extra layers that keep your head from meeting the ground.

Buying bikes in Melbourne can be truly, very easy. Bike riding is one of the healthiest activities around. It should be stress free, and fun, while also really good exercise. Once you have found your bike, checked it for safety, and put on your helmet and other protective gear, then you are ready for the adventure of a lifetime.

Find great prices on Melbourne Bikes by shopping online. There you will find many choices for a Bike Shop Melbourne and other locations too. Head online today and get more.

Technorati Tags: cycling, cycling Australian, cycling Melbourne, fitness, mountain biking, sports and recreation

Tags: cycling, cycling Australian, cycling Melbourne, fitness, mountain biking, sports and recreation

Are you in search for something new to try on a vacation? Well, if you’re the type of person who is into sports, nature, and the good outdoors, then plan a trip to Moab, Utah now! There are tons of things to do in Moab; two of which are Moab mountain biking and Utah whitewater rafting.

Many people believe that Moab is one of the best places to enjoy nature, the outdoors and do some serious mountain biking. Moab mountain biking is stunning. Why? Because the experience will give you a closer look at the tremendous red rock formations and the desert as you zoom by with your bike.

The White Rim trail is the best route for biking. This trail is not just a local favorite, but tourists love it too. After all it is considered as the best mountain biking trail in Moab there is.

In addition, biking in Moab is that “breath of fresh air” that you need from the busy city life — just imagine the cool breeze of the aspen forest and giant pines as you pass by Ponderosas. Moab mountain biking gives you three scenic sites — rocks, deserts, and forests.

On the other hand, if you prefer to take a big splash, then strap in for some Utah whitewater rafting. River rafting is one enjoyable and hyped water activity that is sure to have you on the edge of your seat as you get rocked back and forth by the wild rapids of Utah’s rivers. White water rafting is the type of adrenaline packed act that you want to do over and over again.

In Moab, you can have the bliss of seeing, either through mountain biking or whitewater rafting, Canyonlands and Arches National Parks. These are places on earth where you will see the majesty of nature in its truest form.

These two activities are such crowd drawers in Moab. So which will you try? If you ask me, I’d say both! Why not go mountain biking and then follow it up with a whitewater rafting trip on Utah’s rivers? After all, two adventures in one day is surely a thrilling trip!

Surely you won’t regret trying out these two Moab adventures. Mountain biking and whitewater rafting are two exciting ways to unwind from the busy city life and enjoy the exciting rush that nature has to offer.

Biking is a great way to get away from the hustle of life and experience a new adventure. For one of the greatest outdoor travel experiences, try doing a Moab mountain biking trip along with some Utah whitewater rafting.

Technorati Tags: adventure, boating, entertainment, family, general, mountain biking, outdoors, recreation, travel, vacations, whitewater rafting

Tags: adventure, boating, entertainment, family, general, mountain biking, outdoors, recreation, travel, vacations, whitewater rafting