Mountain biking is generally seriously fun. If you are in very good bicycling condition, have a well-built bike and have got a sense of backwoods adventure, you can certainly do it. In case you are planning on having a mountain bike weekend adventure, you ought to start thinking about taking a variety of items.

First of all, a good backpack will be required. A sturdy pack with plenty of pockets and compartments might be best. Off-road biking involves a lot of difficult slopes and fast speeds so you are going to need a bag that will be able to safely carry your gear.

Another important item on the trip will be drinking water. It is critical to sufficiently hydrate yourself when participating in such a strenuous activity. Pack durable canteens or containers of water. Bring purifier tablets in your backpack to use with any outdoors water you may have to utilize in an emergency to replenish your bottle with to ensure that it is drinkable.

Some healthy and filling snacks will be expected too. Choose food items that can stimulate you in the course of the intense bike ride. Lightweight items such as dried fruit, energy bars, and smaller sized sandwiches will hold your energy up without weighing you down. A very small cooler that could fit in your back pack could be of good use as well.

Because mountain biking is so stressful on your feet, having great shoes is important. Reliable foot gear with shock dissipating and strong soles may well cost a bit more but they are entirely worth it. These tough shoes will help you actually go the extra mile and safeguard your feet during any accidents ?n the course of the ride.

Boulders and tree branches can occasionally produce bike break-downs and problems. Take a spare bike tire as well as other supplies so that you may be able to competently cope with any maintenance difficulties. Ripped tires, broken chains, and brake problems are all things you might find yourself dealing with. It could also be sensible to have your bicycle inspected thoroughly before your cycling jaunt begins.

Last but definitely not least, a first aid case may come in very handy as well. Hopefully you won’t need it, but accidents are always likely but are much more possible when doing something like off road bicycling. In your bag, bring a well stocked emergency kit that will aid you in addressing basic injuries like ankle sprains, scrapes and other simple wounds. The emergency kit needs to contain band aids, antiseptic, and allergy medications along with anything you can think of to bring. If you plan on riding in an area known for its wildlife and bug population, then consider bringing a snake bite system and bug spray as well.

Find just the top bike equipment shops online. And if you require specific mountain biking apparel, you will be able to find them at the top shops too.

Technorati Tags: bicycles, bikes, cycling, mountain biking, outdoors, recreation, sports

Tags: bicycles, bikes, cycling, mountain biking, outdoors, recreation, sports

Designed for military engagement, the Montague Paratrooper mountain bike can handle any terrain that is thrown at it and, with 24 speeds, can do all this at break neck speeds. Designed to operate in near silence, and at the highest performance, it is rugged and tough for any condition.

Toughness is one thing though, practicality another. And with the ability to be folded down to fit in a 3′ x 3′ pack within less than a minute, this is delivered too. Just one lever turn, and you are good to go. Good to go anywhere, anytime, as this quick guide shows.

Airborne units: It is here that the Montague Paratrooper really comes into its own. Simply attach it to a static line and launch. Able to support ground mobility airborne units anywhere, it allows quick and effective transportation upon hitting the ground.

Reconnaissance: When a mission calls for getting close, this bike has no par. Able to get in where other vehicles can’t, with no heat given off and no noise other than from its rider, it could not be better. Able to be transported in regular vehicles too, and unfolded as necessary, it is ideal.

Foot support: For troops on operations on the ground, it can provide an invaluable resource. Partially used, it can be carried in a backpack. Fully used, it can allow more kit to be carried off body. A morale boosting tool too, ground can be covered more quickly and over terrains otherwise considered being navigated around.

Moving into the civilian field too though, the Montague Paratrooper has its obvious merits. For the thrill seeker, it is the ideal recreational bike. But more than this, for those just looking to stay fit with weekend rides around town, it can manage this just as well. It may be a little harsh considering just what it can do though. Best get dirty.

Want to find out more about the montague paratrooper?, then visit www.montagueparatrooper.com to find more info on this montague folding bike including customer reviews.

Technorati Tags: cycling, mountain biking, outdoors, riding, sports

Tags: cycling, mountain biking, outdoors, riding, sports

You may want to start your pedals cycling adventure in the quiet village of Ripley, Ohio. It is situated in the Brown County with many picturesque vineyards and scenic country side. Located at the east of Cincinnati it is a ferry away from the famous Kentucky Bluegrass country. It is a place brimming with history because of its abolitionist’s citizens. It was known to be the first stop of the Underground Railroad and see for yourself the its many historic monuments. After biking you can also taste their great cuisine and their amazing wines famous of the region.

If you’re a mountain biking fanatic, weave your way through Norman, Indiana. The Midwest Trail Ride has the best scenic background for your pedals cycling adventure. It is a four-hour drive away from the Chicago metropolis perfect for an outback experience. You can also try some horseback riding passing through sandstone cliff, rare wintergreens and amazing seasonal waterfalls. Indiana is famous for its rich country music and you may want some of that to accompany you in tasting their great home-cooked meals.

Mackinac Island (pronounced Mackinaw) bans motor vehicles which makes it a friendly place for pedals cycling. You can take a ferryboat ride in June for its Lilac festival or any other month for a scenic self-guided tour. Detailed maps are available at its Tourism Bureau where trails would take you to its british landing, breathtaking arch rock and skull cave, the sugarloaf and its famous devil’s kitchen. You can also stop by the bazillion beach for its great skipping stones or walk by the 70 natural and paved trails found only in this region.

Camping, hiking, canoeing and mountain biking are just some of the outdoor sports you can do in this next amazing town. Black River, Lesterville Missouri is just a couple of hours away from the hustle and bustle of St. Louis. You can do pedals cycling in Missouri’s most beautiful and scenic country. You can also invite some friends and do camping at the banks of the Ozarks to end your tiring day.

Visiting the Midwest can never be complete if you don’t stop by the Black Hills in South Dakota. This scenic country abounds in pedals cycling trails that will put a test to you cycling ability. One of the best trails is the Bear Mountain Trails. The 16-mile trail will take you to the breathtaking mountain views with an array of wildlife to the nearby Mount Rushmore. If you’re adept at rock climbing you can perfectly do so there or just ride a boat and some jet ski. When winter is your favorite time, you can embark on skiing, snowmobiling or snowshoeing adventure.

A visit to the Midwest can give the most fun and exciting outdoor adventures. Visit other places near you with your bike and do some pedals cycling.

Technorati Tags: activities, cycling, fun, Hobbies, mountain biking, outdoor sports, pedals cycling, sports, travel, trips

Tags: activities, cycling, fun, Hobbies, mountain biking, outdoor sports, pedals cycling, sports, travel, trips

You can travel almost anywhere with your mountain bike and see your destination from your trails. You can travel just about anywhere and see your destination from the trails on your bike. You don’t have to take on mountainous trails unless you are in really good shape. You don’t have to travel to particularly mountainous areas to find mountain biking trails, and unless you are superfit, you should probably look for hilly, scenic routes in a country or region you would like to visit.

You can find a good mountain tour through your tour company. These are offered all across the U.S., but the West is much more popular. The southwest area is also becoming popular.

You can also travel with a pack from one point to another. You will need the same basic equipment as a backpacker - and the same amount of planning. You will not want to carry a tent on your bicycle, and other than energizing snacks for the ride, you won’t want the weight of food either. Plan your accommodation in advance so you won’t have problems on the trip.

You should be realistic about your capabilities. Allow time for rest stops, possible mechanical failure and other unforeseen circumstances, allowing yourself enough time to get to your overnight stop safely.

Because you are mountain biking, you won’t want to stick to the tar roads. You may veer into private property on offroad trails. You may need permission and/or permits to enter some areas, so be sure to research your route well and arrange as much of this type of issue as early as possible.

A topographical map will show you paths and elevations. A steep hill will slow you down, and you may not be able to make up the time on the downhill without taking a great risk.

In mountain biking, as in road cycling, the idea is to carry as little weight as possible on the bike in order to improve your speed and the distances you can cover. You can find great mountain biking trips in Europe and South Africa as well. Between trails, find a home base accommodation. You can see lovely parts of the region with a day ride in a different direction each day. You will see things that you can’t from a car window. Mountain biking also helps you to keep fit and healthy, while offering a great way to get around an area taking in the sights.

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Technorati Tags: cycling, mountain biking, recreation, Recreation and Sports, sports

Tags: cycling, mountain biking, recreation, Recreation and Sports, sports

[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

Some of the most stunning pictures you will create are actually pictures captured while you’re underwater. The environment will be completely different from what you will find on land. As such, underwater camera is considered as some of the best creation ever by outdoor enthusiast.

Aside from recreational purposes, underwater digital camera is also essential to the work of marine biologist and scientist for research and study purposes. Please bear in mind that an underwater camera is not created equally like a waterproof camera!

The difference with an underwater camera and a waterproof one is that the waterproof camera cannot withstand the pressure when submerging, as such a waterproof one is only meant to withstand water, not pressure unlike the dedicated underwater digital camera.

So if you are looking to take picture while you’re submerged in the sea, you will need an underwater camera, whereas waterproof camera is sufficient to be used around the pool.

That said, if you are not a marine biologist or scientist which spends a lot of time underwater, you might not need to invest in such expensive equipment just yet. Underwater casing for your digital camera can actually help do the same as an underwater camera, this is a cheaper alternative for those who do not spend too much time underwater, and they too can withstand pressure.

Using these casing can help turn your digital camera into equipment that can withstand heavy pressure associated with submerging underwater.

Here are some underwater pictures shooting tips:

You need to know that the deeper you dive, the less light will be available and as such it can really affect the quality of the pictures you take underwater. What you can do to compensate a lack of light is to adjust your white balance, as it can help give you more lights and provide you with more natural colors when you’re diving deep.

Another thing you can help improve your pictures underwater is to use external flash instead of your internal camera flash. Using an internal flash will most likely result in white particles in your picture because it does not flash the area beforehand like what you will find in an external flash.

You also want to make sure that after every dive, you immediately remove the salt water from your equipments. The salinity in saltwater can deteriorate the quality and durability of your equipments if you do not do wash them away with freshwater.

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Technorati Tags: digital, Digital Camera, Digital Cameras, equipment, Hobbies, passion, photography, recreational, scuba diving, sports, Underwater, underwater photograph, underwater pictures, waterproof camera

Tags: digital, Digital Camera, Digital Cameras, equipment, Hobbies, passion, photography, recreational, scuba diving, sports, Underwater, underwater photograph, underwater pictures, waterproof camera

Finding the best mountain bike isn’t as hard as you may think, but there are some things to look at that will help you to make a better educated decision. While not comprehensive, the following six points should be considered when looking for the best mountain bike.

Best Mountain Bike Six Points: 1. Price 2. Frame 3. Brakes 4. Shifters 5. Tires 6. Size/Fit

Price: There are mountain bikes that can cost you $4,000 to $5,000 for a top of the line bike with all the bells and whistles. For one of the best mountain bikes ridden competitively you can expect to pay upwards of $10,000. Have a price in mind when you decide to start looking for a new mountain bike. If you are willing to spend between $400 and $800 you can get a really good mountain bike. If you don’t have at least that much then you can always go and get a cheapo from your local big chain store. The problem with this is that for the most part you will be changing parts rather quickly and the cost of that cheap mountain bike is no longer cheap.

Frame: It would suffice it to say that the best mountain bikes have the best frames. With today’s technology you can expect the frame to last a long time. They are light weight and very durable. Most of the frames you will find are made out of aluminum but there are some that are carbon fiber. For the sake of this article and your price range lets assume you will be getting the aluminum frame. One consideration would be whether to get a hardtail or not. The hardtail frame has no rear suspension. This will make for a very rigid mountain bike and is better suited for more flat ground riding. if you are going to be getting aggressive on the trails you may want to opt for a full suspension bike that will help absorb impact of a rough terrain.

Brakes: Disk brakes are found on most of the best mountain bikes. You will still find that some people prefer the rim brakes because they are lightweight. The problem is that the rim brakes don’t perform very well in wet weather. If I has a choice I would always opt for the disk brakes.

To read the rest of the article please checkout my site at The Best Mountain Bikes and take a look at our picks for the best mountain bikes and their prices. My favorite is the Diamondback Mountain Bike but the Smith and Wesson is a close second.

Technorati Tags: best mountain bikes, cycling, diamondback mountain bike, exercise, hardtail, mountain biking, smith and wesson bike, sports

Tags: best mountain bikes, cycling, diamondback mountain bike, exercise, hardtail, mountain biking, smith and wesson bike, sports

[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.

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

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

Looking for a way to unwind while exploring new parts of the country? Try a mountain biking tour. Many companies offer mountain biking tours, complete with scenic routes and accommodations. Couples looking for a way to explore the country together will get a lot of out these tours.

From major mountain trails to lesser known trails with hills and rough terrain, mountain bikers will find great adventure in biking trails in each and every region in America.

Some of the most popular mountain biking regions include the Pacific Northwest, Southwest, and Southeast. States such as North Carolina have many scenic trails.

While the American West area has long been a popular place for mountain biking vacations, many people are beginning to explore the Southwest area as well!

If you are going to be in the Southwest, be sure to check out the South Boundary Trail of New Mexico, the Flume Trail of Nevada, and the Piney Canyon Road in Arizona.

While these trails are over 20 miles long, even new mountain bikers will enjoy them. You can ride as much of the trail as you want to. There is no pressure, for example, to complete the 50 miles of rough terrain at Piney Canyon.

Some of my personal favorites are in the Pacific Northwest. Surveyor’s Ridge in Oregon, Mount Tamalpais in California, and the Methow Trail System in Washington are both beautiful and relaxing while offering a challenging workout.

Mountain biking is a great sport and can make for an even better vacation. Both challenging and relaxing, it is a great vacation for couples, families, or groups. You’ll create life-long memories as you challenge both your mind and your body. Gather a group of family members, neighbors or old friends and set out on an adventure you’ll never forget! You may just decide to make this an annual tradition with your loved ones!

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Technorati Tags: adventure, biking, destinations, fun, leisure, men, mountain biking, mountains, recreation, sports, tours, travel, USA, vacation

Tags: adventure, biking, destinations, fun, leisure, men, mountain biking, mountains, recreation, sports, tours, travel, USA, vacation

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.

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

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