Important Mountain Biking Gear
If you are new to mountain biking, you will probably be surprised by just how much mountain biking gear is available at the local bike shop. Almost all of it either looks cool or looks useful. But, as a new mountain biker, you need to decide which mountain biking gear is really important and which mountain biking gear is optional. So let us take a look at the common types of mountain biking gear you will find in a bike shop, in order by importance.
Mountain Biking Helmets
Nowadays most governments prohibit youngsters from riding bikes without a helmet. But, you may not be aware that most riding trails and parks now require bike riders of all ages to wear helmets. Regardless, it just makes good sense to wear a helmet. The most serious mountain biking injuries are typically head injuries incurred by those not wearing helmets or wearing helmets that don't fit or protect the head properly. Obviously, you should buy a helmet that provides good protection and fits well. A quality chin strap is a good idea.
Mountain Biking Gloves
Gloves provide your hands with protection from scrapes and help you keep a better hold on your bike, especially on bumpy rides. If you've ever fallen off a bike, you've probably had the experience of putting your hand out as you fall and having it get all scraped up and bruised. Putting the hands out is not always the best course of action, but it is the natural one. Having high quality gloves can make a big difference in the damage done to your hands.
Mountain Biking Repair Kits
You can buy all sorts of repair kits for your bike. Ideally, you should choose one that has the tools you'll need to keep you from getting stranded in the middle of a long ride far from civilization. So your kit should include some tire patches and glue in case you get a flat. It should also include an air pump. A spare inner tube isn't a bad idea if you have the space for it. A good kit will have a chain tool to help you put your chain back together in the event it breaks. Some people also prefer to have any wrenches or screw drivers on hand that may be necessary.
Bike Water Bottles
Water bottles you can attach to your bike frame are vital. Hydration should never be forgotten when planning a mountain biking trip. Water is essential to life, but you will sweat it out of your body quickly on a long ride. You should also consider taking a hydration pack with a water bladder with you on your trips. You should have more water available on your trip than you think you will need.
Sunglasses
Sunglasses are an important riding tool. They help protect your eyes from glare, insects, and dust. Additionally, sunglasses that block harmful ultraviolet light are good for your eyes.
Mountain Biking Clothing
Mountain biking clothes are designed to keep you from getting drenched in sweat and to protect you from falls. However, some mountain biking clothing brands are excessively expensive. Padded biking shorts are really the only-biking special clothing items you need.
There are special shoes for mountain biking, but the only important things to consider when buying your shoes are comfort, fit, and grip on your pedals. You need shoes that provide proper support and don't make your feet sore that will keep your feet from slipping off of the pedals.
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