Cool Biking Zone

Review - Giro Remedy Full Face Bike Helmet

By Bobby Hanswell

The Giro Remedy Full Face Bike Helmet is hands down the best bang for your buck, when it comes to full-faced bike helmets. Whether you’re into Downhill Mountain Biking, Dual Slalom, Dirt Jumping, or BMX riding you’ll love all that this helmet has to offer. It’s a tough, comfortable, good looking, inexpensive helmet and that’s why we bought it, use it, and love it!

Design

This fiber glass shell helmet comes in nine fresh and sharp color schemes. The design offers 14 vents with internal air channeling to keep your head cool while bombing through those rock gardens. The Remedy features a 3 bolt visor, washable interior liner, and the popular EVA lined chin bar. The fiberglass Giro Remedy Helmet weighs 1050 grams, which is not bad for such an aggressive helmet. If you ride hard, you won’t care about the weight of this helmet, you’ll worry about protecting your head! If you’re a “gram counter” or just conscious about weight, Giro offers a Carbon S Remedy version. As always, this helmet complies with U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission’s safety standards for bicycle helmets.

Real Life Riding Test

We put the Giro Remedy to the test.

Our first test was at the local dirt jumps. We hit the dirt jumps and sure enough it involved a nice head “smack” to the handle bars when landing the first set. The Giro Remedy Helmet worked! Helmet score of “1″, injury “0″. This is exactly why we bought this helmet! Confidence in your protective equipment will help you go big when jumping!

The second test was a brief urban assault through town. While attempting to pull a manual off of a loading dock, the bike came back too far leading to a nice “head smack” on the pavement. Giro Remedy Helmet score of “2″, injury “0″.

The third test was at the local BMX track. On our fourth pass through the park, we hit a table top with maximum speed, which resulted in a “bail out” of the bike and a nice “tuck and roll” on the track. Giro Remedy Bike Helmet score of “3″, injury “0″.

A great helmet like the Remedy instills confidence in your riding. This new found confidence may cause more crashes, but will improve your riding ability!

Price Point

We have seen this helmet sell for a prices between $130 and $180. A helmet of this quality in other manufacturer model lines could cost you more than $200. We believe that when it comes to your noggin, a good quality full faced helmet under $200 dollars is a steal.

Bottom Line

Head protection is to be taken very seriously. We ride hard and have the scars and bruises to prove it! A couple years ago, a member of our family came short of a “double” during a dual slalom race and landed on his face. A couple shots of morphine and an ambulance ride later he had his mouth wired shut and an oral surgeon’s business card.

It’s vital to purchase and wear the appropriate head gear and that’s why we believe that the Giro Full Faced Remedy Bike Helmet will do the job at a spectacular price.

– About –

Bobby Hanswell is a contributing author of http://www.pedalcrunch.com PedalCrunch offers a community for aggressive cycling enthusiasts. At PedalCrunch you’ll find Reviews, How-to Guides, Rants & Rights, News, Videos, Great Deals on Products and more! If you’re into Mountain Biking, Downhill Mountain Biking, Dual Slalom, Dirt Jumping, or BMX, check us out at http://www.pedalcrunch.com

Source: Cool Biking Zone

Add comment May 21st, 2008

Down Hill Mountain Biking

By Jason Storm

Extreme sports are getting more and more popular these days. Mountain biking attracts daredevils from all over the world who like to have an “adventure sport experience”.

The term mountain biking includes many different styles. The range is from gentle types such as cross country where you ride up and down the hills, and cyclo-cross, which is a combination between mountain biking and road biking, to more ‘extreme’ styles. Downhill biking is one of the more extreme types and it is also one of the most popular forms of mountain biking.

As the name implies, in downhill mountain biking you only ride down the hills. The bike and the biker get transported up to the top by a lift and then begin the thrilling ride down. What you’re aiming for is to get to the bottom of the hill as fast as possible, managing to pass all the obstacles. The situations that occur often get pretty extreme. This includes jumps that can be up to twelve meters long, dropping three meters and other kinds of rough conditions that you can find on a mountain slope.

The people that are into downhill mountain biking are those that are looking for a good challenge, that long for the adrenaline pumping experience and don’t mind a few bruises. It’s for those that like to be on the risky, thrilling side of life.

The downhill bike is heavier than other mountain bikes to be able to fit the conditions. It weighs somewhere between forty and fifty pounds so forget about pedaling uphill once you’re out there. Once you’ve begun your race, there’s only one way to go and that’s down. The bike has to be able to put up with extreme conditions so it is equipped with front and rear suspension and heavy tubing. For the biker, it’s necessary to use full safety gear with a proper helmet, goggles, a body suit plus knee and hand pads. You can expect to have some close contact with the dirt even if you are a professional downhill biker.

There are many ways to improve you skills, the most important one is of course to practice, and then to practice a bit more and a bit more. There are loads of books, DVDs and internet sites where people can watch stunts being performed by professionals sharing their tricks and ideas. This is also a great way to learn, and something you can bring with you once your actually out on the hillside. The only way to fully master it though, is to learn by the experience.

Even though downhill mountain biking is somewhat a risky sport, it’s well worth to go for it, being able to give you an experience out of the ordinary, both fun and exciting.

– About –

Jason Storm is an adventure sport enthusiast, he’s part of the extreme sport community at SackUpSports

Source: Cool Biking Zone

Add comment May 21st, 2008

Tips For Snowboarding Beginners

By Jason Storm

It’s no wonder that snowboarding is a sports that’s increasing it’s popularity each year. It’s great fun and very exciting to ride down the hills, feeling the adrenaline pumping in your body while you’re doing all kinds of tricks.

However, before you are able to do ride like a pro, you’ll have to master the basics. Here’s a few things that will make your snowboarding a much more enjoyable experience:

* Always choose a board that’s the right size for you. The board should be reaching somewhere between your chin and collarbone. For the beginner it’s a good idea to get one that’s a bit shorter and therefore easier to maneuver. For the width, the board should be just as wide as your boots standing across the top.

* The equipment you choose depends on whether you are intending to do the “freestyle/freeride” style or “alpine/carving”. The alpine board is of a thicker and heavier type to give a smooth ride, while the freestyle board is shorter and easier to maneuver.

* The clothes you wear also have a great impact on your snowboarding pleasure. The clothes you are wearing should be fitting but yet comfortably loose. In this way you can move with ease but you don’t risk to have the clothes getting caught in anything. In direct opposition to skiing boots, snowboarding boots should be comfortable and not too tight.

Don’t hold back on protection from the elements, get: goggles, good gloves, a hat or helmet and if you want extra protection for your tailbone and bottom pick up some protective pants.

When you are all set for the slopes, don’t forget to start off slowly. My recommendation is getting at least one lesson to begin with. Instead of “crashing and burning” like I did my first time, a lesson can save you lots of bumps and bruises!

Here is one of the most important keys to get the most out of snowboarding, be present and relaxed. I found that snowboarding can be a truly magical experience of being in the moment. It’s great to feel each movement, every twist and turn while you’re riding down the slope.

One more tip that is of great value is to practice tricks with friends. Even if you have some skills it’s a good idea to have someone nearby so you can look after each other. It’s not only fun to do things together, it’s also a great way to improve your skill. By sharing your tricks with one another you’re learning becomes both faster and easier.

Don’t miss out on the amazing experience that snowboarding can be. Get ready and enjoy the exciting moments on the slopes!

– About –

Jason Storm is an adventure sport enthusiast, read more of his snowboarding articles and watch some cool videos at SackUpSports.

Source: Cool Biking Zone

Add comment May 21st, 2008

10 Tips To Enhance Your Cycling Experience

By: Jason Storm

Cycling is an activity that has great health benefits. Not only does if tone your muscles, it also helps to keep your heart and cardiovascular system healthy.

Here are ten tips that that can make your cycling experience more enjoyable:

* Finding a bike that is a good size for you is important if you are going to enjoy your ride. Make sure that your posture feels good while riding. *The kind of bike you should invest in depends on what type of riding you will be doing. Are you riding in the city, traveling long distances or will you be

going off-road? For long distances you want a light bike with thin wheels, for off-road you want a thicker frame and wider tires.

* Another thing to look at if you are planning to go long distance is your bicycle seat. A long distance bike should be more comfortable and it’s a good idea to invest in a well padded seat.

* Make sure that you bring plenty of water with you for your ride. A good idea is to have a water bottle attached to the bike so you can easily have a drink at any time.

* If you’re going on a long ride it’s important to eat proper food a few hours before. Pasta, rice and bread are foods with a high amount of slow carbohydrates which help to stabilize your body’s energy level.

* It can be helpful to bring some fast carbohydrates with you on the ride, such as granola bars, bananas, energy drinks,etc.

* Always bring a phone with you when you are going out. It’s helpful if something unexpected happens, for example if you drive on something sharp and get a flat tire. I recommend keeping it off and only using it when you need to, don’t get distracted by talking while you’re riding.

* Prevent your bicycle from getting stolen by investing in a quality lock. Also, it’s a good idea to park your bike at designated parking areas since a lone bike usually attracts thefts easier.

* The clothes you wear also has a great impact on your experience. To choose comfortable yet fitting clothes makes a big difference. In this way you can move with ease and still have as little resistance from the wind as possible.

* You’re better to start off slowly and go for short rides in the beginning, than to go for long rides straight away and end up with a sore bottom and aching muscles.

Cycling really is a wonderful way to get out into the fresh air and it’s a great way to see the landscape where you live. Most of us could use a little more exercise and cardiovascular training, it can be as easy as getting on the bike and pedaling.

– About –

Jason Storm is a cycling enthusiast and is involved in the sports community SackUpSports. Check it out!

Source: Cool Biking Zone

Add comment May 21st, 2008

How To Change A Bike Tire And Tube

By: Bobby Hanswell

Learning how to change a bicycle tire and tube is one of the most common and easiest repairs you can do on your own. Whether you need to change a flat tire on the trail or want to replace an old tire, this tutorial is for you.

Tools needed: Tire Lever, Tube.

How to Change a Bike Tire and Tube:

1 - Remove wheel from bicycle.

2 - Deflate or remove air from bicycle tube.

3 - Use your tire lever and hook the outer edge of the bead.

4 - Pull the tire lever around the bicycle rim, such that the tire bead pops out.

5 - Remove tire and tube, such that you remember its exact positioning on the bicycle rim. (This will aid in locating the cause of the puncture).

6 - Slightly inflate the tube to approximately 15 psi and inspect for puncture location.

7 - Once the puncture location is found, look in the same spot on the tire and the rim. Often times, a thorn or nail could have penetrated the tire and caused the puncture. It is also important to make sure that the rim tape is in position and in good shape. Often times, the spoke nipple will protrude and cause a puncture in the tube.

8 - When you have determined what has caused the flat, make the appropriate repair.

9 - Grab your new tube and inflate just enough to give the tube shape.

10 - Place the slightly inflated tube inside of the bicycle tire.

11 - Orient the tube and tire such that the valve stem is inserted into the rim first.

12 - Slowly roll the bead over the rim with your thumbs. (Do not use tools! This could cause a pinch flat!).

13 - Inflate the tube to approximately 20 psi and fondle the tube all the way around the rim to ensure it is seated properly.

14 - Inflate tire to appropriate pressure. (i.e. 40 to 60 psi for most mountain bike tires).

Tips:

* Wear ear and eye protection. Note that it is possible for a tube to pinch or explode during installation. Anyone who has changed enough bike tires and tubes has at one time or another had it explode near their face.

* When installing the tube and tire, make sure the valve stem stays in place. Any unusual strain on the valve stem could cause a pinch or flat.

* When inspecting the tire for foreign objects, it is sometimes best to turn the tire inside out. This will allow you to inspect the tire thoroughly.

– About –

Bobby Hanswell is a contributing author of http://www.pedalcrunch.com PedalCrunch offers a community for aggressive cycling enthusiasts. At PedalCrunch you’ll find Reviews, How-to Guides, Rants & Rights, News, Videos, Great Deals on Products and more! If you’re into Mountain Biking, Downhill Mountain Biking, Dual Slalom, Dirt Jumping, or BMX, check us out at http://www.pedalcrunch.com

Source: Cool Biking Zone

Add comment May 20th, 2008

Get On Your Bike - Bicycle Buying Guide

By: Bob Shanty

Bicycles can be used for a number of purposes, including recreation, fitness, transportation and sports. If you are planning on purchasing a new bike, consider the terrain you will be riding on as well as your body weight. Are you finding it difficult to choose a new cycle? Go through this buying guide for exhaustive information on bicycles and make the right choice.

What types of bicycles are available?

Different types of bicycles, such as BMX, road, racing, touring, comfort, kids, womens, tandem and more, are available for sale. Here is an in-depth look at some popular models.

Road Bikes:

Road bikes are built for paved roads. They have thin tires, dropped handlebars and lightweight frames made of aluminum or carbon. The majority of these cycles have 21 speeds. Sport bikes, touring bikes, racing bikes, triathlon bikes, cruisers and choppers also fall under this category.

Mountain Bikes:

Mountain bikes are durable enough to withstand serious off-road racing. Sturdy frames, strong brakes, flat handlebars and 26-inch wheels make these bikes highly popular. Their low gears assist you in off-road racing, especially when going uphill and riding through mud. These cycles are heavy and can withstand rough handling. In a few models, the front suspension and rear suspension offer comfort, even while riding over uneven ground.

Comfort Bikes:

These bikes are good for beginners. Comfort bikes come with adjustable vertical handlebars, comfy seats, 26 inch wide and low pressure tires and suspension forks. They are made for short rides on well-maintained bike paths.

Hybrid/Cross Bikes:

These all-purpose bicycles combine the features of road and mountain bikes. They have a wide gear ratio, upright handlebars and narrow tires. Their frames are lightweight, making these perfect for pavement riding and minor off-road racing. Hybrid/cross bikes usually come with mudguards.

Recumbent Bikes:

If you cannot handle the physical strain associated with traditional bicycles, consider recumbent cycles. These bikes can go fast and provide comfortable seating. However, they do have some pitfalls. They are expensive compared to most standard bikes and their transportation by car may prove to be more difficult as well, especially long wheelbase models.

BMX Bikes:

BMX (Bicycle Motocross) bikes owe their invention to the popularity of motocross dirt bike racing. These bikes can be ridden through woods or around dirt-tracks. Though BMX cycles resemble mountain bikes, their wheels and frames are comparatively smaller. These bikes are suitable for kids and young riders. BMX racing bikes are built for racing on dirt tracks. BMX freestyle bikes are designed for doing tricks whereas BMX dirt jumping bikes are made for getting airborne on dirt tracks.

Chopper Bikes:

These bikes are based on chopper motorcycles. Chopper bikes feature wide rear tires, large cushioned seats and extended handlebars. These bikes are not recommended for off-road racing.

Womens Bikes:

Womens bicycles are smaller, designed to suit the build of the average woman. They have narrow handlebars, short top tubes and wide saddles.

Kids Bikes:

Is your child pining for a bicycle? Compact bikes with small frames are ideal for children. These bikes are easy to ride and durable. Many kids bicycles come with training wheels attached. Other cycles give you the option to attach separately sold training wheels. Go for kids bikes with spoke guards and coaster brakes that allow children to stop when pedaling backwards.

Tandem Bikes:

Do you want to make cycling more fun? Get a tandem bike that accommodates two or more people at one time.

What are other factors to consider when purchasing a bike and getting into the rewarding sport cycling

Frame Materials:

Frames are made of different materials depending on the type of bicycle.

Steel

The most commonly used frame material is steel. Chromoly (chromium-molybdenum steel) is lighter than carbon steel, but both are strong and durable.

Carbon Fiber

These strong and lightweight frames offer a good ride.

Titanium

Titanium is one of the most rugged, durable and costliest frame materials you can get.

Aluminum

Aluminum is a stiff and strong material. Aluminum frames are good for riders looking for lightweight bikes.

Suspension:

Hybrid, comfort and mountain bikes feature suspension forks. Forks assist you in riding over rough tracks more easily and comfortably.

Wheels:

Wheels play a vital role in bikes. Single-alloy hubs with rubber axle seals, few spokes and sealed bearings are recommended. Stainless steel spokes and aluminum rims are lightweight and rust free.

Gears:

Gears are crucial to ride on uneven surfaces. On flat surfaces, only 3 or 4 gears are needed. When it comes to hills and challenging terrain, a bike with a 21, 24 or 27 speed drivetrain is necessary. Go for bikes with gears that are easy to shift.

Brakes:

Most bikes are equipped with either rim brakes (V-brakes), linear brakes or hub brakes. Disc brakes, the latest brake type, provide brilliant braking and low maintenance, but are expensive.

Seats:

Look for anatomical shapes, flexible frames, gel padding and cushioning springs in your seats.

What accessories are available for bicycles?

If you are getting a new bicycle, you should check out the following accessories. Some accessories are absolutely necessary, while others are strictly for your own convenience.

Helmets:

Helmets are vital accessories to avoid head injuries. They come in kid and adult sizes as well as many colors.

Locks:

Protect your bicycle from theft with a bike lock. Locks are highly recommended if you plan on leaving your bicycle in any public area unattended.

Flat Kits:

For long rides, it is wise to carry a flat kit and a small frame-mounted pump to fill your tires with air. The kit should include a new tube, basic patch kit, tire iron, wrench, rag and small seat bag.

Pumps:

To fill your tires with air whenever you need, buy bicycle pumps.

Computers and Monitors:

A cyclocomputer is a digital speedometer that shows speed, distance and time traveled during your bicycle ride. High-end models come with GPS functions and can measure your heart rate and power output.

Mudguards:

Keep yourself and your bike clean with mudguards.

Baskets and Panniers:

Attach baskets and panniers to your bike to carry heavier loads.

Covers/Storage:

Protect your bicycles with cycle covers and storage solutions, such as lightweight aluminum storage stands.

Carriers:

For small cars, carriers (also referred to as bike racks) that attach to the roof are ideal. For big cars, like vans an SUVs, use carriers that attach to the rear of your vehicle.

– About –

Bob Shanty has been researching and writing articles that help shoppers make more educated buying decisions on cycling for online shopping mega store BIGshop for years. For more articles by Bob please visit http://www.bigshop.com.au.

Source: Cool Biking Zone

Add comment May 20th, 2008

Mountain Biking in Kerala

By:  Dev Sri

Mountain Biking is a sport of endurance, skills and self-reliance. From a back yard to a gravel road, from country sides to mountain slopes, fire roads to the thrills of biking down narrow tracks through forests, mountains, deserts – mountain biking offers incomparable thrills and fun.

There are aspects of mountain biking that are more similar to trail running than regular bicycling. Because riders are often far from civilization, there is a strong ethic of self-reliance in the sport. Riders learn to repair their broken bikes or flat tires to avoid being stranded miles from help. This reliance on survival skills accounts for the group dynamics of the sport. Club rides and other forms of group rides are common, especially on longer treks.

Mountain Biking entails the sport of riding bicycles off-road, often over rough terrain, whether riding specially equipped mountain bikes or hybrid road bikes. Most mountain bikes share similar characteristics that underscore durability and performance in rough terrain: wide, knobby tires, large, round frame tubing, front fork or dual suspension .The durability factor means a far heavier bicycle weight to rider ratio than their road touring cousins.

Mountain Biking in Kerala

Mountain Biking in Kerala works as a pretty good adventure experience for those who love to explore the unbeaten tracks and not so frequently visited paths. Mountain biking amongst the majestic backdrop of the great mountains of Kerala is an unforgettable and thrilling experience. The opportunity of mountain biking in Kerala is from the Munnar, Thenmala and many other places. The training of mountain biking adventurous sport is available.

Those travelers who want to travel differently for them the mountain biking at Kerala is undoubtedly one of the safest and the most enchanting ways to tour Kerala. It has its own advantages; you don’t have to be an avid mountain biker to go for biking in different places of Kerala. More than just the excitement of biking you can be delighted by the beautiful whistle of a hill myna or by the amicable smile of a villager.

Each ride is a display of personal expression. There is the gonzo daredevil who rides for the adrenaline rush of speed and danger. Then there is the more careful rider who takes time to enjoy the scenery. Mountain biking in India is famous at Kerala.

Mountain biking in Kerala is a sensory experience like none other. You must concentrate on the intricacies of the terrain. Your hearing becomes fine-tuned to approaching streams, animals or rock slides. As you adjust your speed, you pick up the scent of a cluster of pine trees or a field of grass. In fact, you may even taste honeysuckle carried by the wind. Kerala adventure mountain biking is popular.

Every bike riders riding kit will have all equipment, to enjoy a safe and fun ride. Only keep those things that you are going to use in your riding expedition. Among the essentials that you will require in your mountain bike trip is a first aid box and a basic bike repairs.

Must have items for short riding trips include wrenches for all the nuts and bolts on the bike, tire levers, pump, patch kit/tubes, chain tool, crescent wrench, zip ties, duct tape and a small first aid kit. For long rides also add up things such as cables, brake pads, food, water, a bigger first aid kit, crank remover, spare spokes, cassette remover, and extra clothing. To carry these items, you can use a jersey pockets or bike bags.

– About

B:  Dev Sri - Dev Sri invites you to try adventure tours of Kerala. With Adventure Kerala, you will enjoy adventure sports like mountaineering, rappelling, rock climbing, river crossing, and a whole lot of adventure activities.

Source: Cool Biking Zone

Add comment May 20th, 2008

Mountain Bike Suspension – Information And Tips

By: Andrew Caxton

When it comes to mountain bicycling, people are generally not aware that a good suspension plays a very important role in making the ride a very comfortable one. And making the right choice is not a tough job, considering the range of bikes and the types of suspension’s that come attached to them.

When it comes to mountain bicycling, people are generally not aware that a good suspension plays a very important role in making the ride a very comfortable one. And making the right choice is not a tough job, considering the range of bikes and the types of suspension’s that come attached to them.

Learning About Mountain Bike Suspension

To be able to choose the best mountain bikes you need to have considerable knowledge of what a suspension is and how it works. This knowledge will definitely prove to be very useful while selecting the best bike for your self, as the options available in the market is outstanding.

What is Suspension?

Now a days one can find bikes fitted with front and rear suspension. The suspension, more commonly known as ‘shock absorbers’, is basically a combination of a spring and a damper and its main function is to absorb the shocks generated by the bumps and at the same time maintain the contact between the tires and the ground. The shock absorbers play a major role in make the ride a smother one.

Different types of suspensions

Modern day Mountain bikes are divided in four different categories, basically depending on the type of suspensions they are fitted with. A) Cross country bikes, which have about 4.5 inches of suspension. B) All trail bikes are fitted with 4 to 6 inches of suspension, as they are a bit heavier than other bikes. C) 6 to 8 inches of suspension are fitted in free ride bikes, and finally downhill bikes which are fitted with 7 to 10 inches suspension.

Full Suspension or Hard tail?

Another important decision that you have to take while purchasing a mountain bike is whether you need a full suspension bike or a hard tail bike. Basically, a full suspension bike should be preferred as they are much more sturdy, comfortable and enjoyable, and much easier to control compared to the hard tail bikes.

Owing to its original and reliable components, a full suspension mountain bike is the ultimate choice for all bikers. But generally these full suspension bikes are way too expensive and hence unaffordable and the next best option is the hard tail suspension bikes.

Consider these previously discussed issues regarding the bike suspension seriously, and you are sure to find the most suitable mountain bike for your self. And once you have found the ultimate mountain bike for your self, you will never regret the time and effort you put together in research before finalizing your choice.

– About –

Andrew Caxton is the author of many articles on subjects like cycling interesting and published at http://www.bikecyclingreviews.com . Find more publications about bicycle handlebars at his website.

Source: Cool Biking Zone

Add comment May 15th, 2008

The Importance Of Techniques In Mountain Biking

By: Andrew Caxton

To excel in any field, be it sports or any other, one has to have a certain technique. Having a technique gives you a edge above the others. Training with experts help you develop these techniques, or you can develop your own as you put in your time.

To excel in any field, be it sports or any other, one has to have a certain technique. Having a technique gives you a edge above the others. Training with experts help you develop these techniques, or you can develop your own as you put in your time.

The importance of Techniques for beginners.

The best thing about mountain biking is that it is not restricted to any specific age group or gender. Basically, any body who is in good physical condition and loves adventures can enjoy the thrills of this sport. Mastering the techniques is also not important, unless you wish to be the best in the sport.

Generally it is observed that all those who do mountain biking do not give much importance to learning the techniques. Mountain biking is usually seen as another way of workout and a break from the usual daily routine works like attending family and other commitments, but it’s not true.

Why is learning the Techniques important even for Beginner’s.

Learning the techniques of the game is the key to mastering any sport, be it mountain biking or basketball. All expert mountain biker’s have their own techniques. The time and energy spent through years of practice help them become the best in the game. All beginners are advised to take guidance from such experts, and learn from their experience.

Do not be disappointed, if you do not you cannot find a good teacher for your self. Its possible to learn mountain biking even without the guidance of a trained teacher, all you have to do is get into the company of other mountain bikers and watch them carefully and observe their technique. After getting the basic idea, all you have to do is practice till you become perfect.

The easiest way to learn mountain biking in the absence of a trainer is to joining mountain biking clubs. Admission to these mountain biking clubs is usually free, but some might ask for small donations in return for their services. Watching mountain biking videos, attending forums or visiting community websites is also a good option.

In case there are no mountain biking clubs in your neighborhood, starting your own club can be a good idea. You might be shocked to see the number of people interested in joining the club. Such club not only helps you share your knowledge but also double up as a group for social gathering.

– About –

Andrew Caxton is a journalist who writes newsletters on bicycle refine for http://www.bikecyclingreviews.com . Find more publications about time trial position at his website.

Source: Cool Biking Zone

Add comment May 15th, 2008

The Importance Of Mountain Bike Maintenance

By: Andrew Caxton

It’s a given fact that maintenance is the key to a bikes better performance and long life, be it in the form of regular tuning of the bike of scheduled complete maintenance. The rider has to understand the importance or else he may be forced to invest in a new bike even before he actually put the bike to the real test.

It’s a given fact that maintenance is the key to a bikes better performance and long life, be it in the form of regular tuning of the bike of scheduled complete maintenance. The rider has to understand the importance or else he may be forced to invest in a new bike even before he actually put the bike to the real test.

The Importance of Mountain Bike Maintenance

The sport of mountain biking requires a lot of stamina and agility owing to the rough nature of the sport. These bikes are subjected to a lot of hardship and thus tend to war out sooner than expected. This rugged nature of the sport makes maintenance a very important concern for the many bike owners.

Owning a Mountain bikes is not restricted only to professional bikers, there are people who prefer to use mountain bikes for day to day use. The importance of maintenance to the mountain bike remains the same for all its users, not depending for what purpose the bike is used. So ignoring the maintenance part may result in unwanted expenditure of purchasing a new bike.

Important First Steps in Mountain Bike Maintenance

Maintenance of mountain bikes is important because they tend to wear out sooner than expected, as they are subjected to all kinds of harsh weather and rough terrains. It’s advisable to keep it in a cool and dry place when not in use. The heat, rains and rough use takes their toll on the tires and rusting of metal parts can affect its performance if not maintained properly.

Performance of the mountain bike depends mainly on the fact that the parts function properly. So it is advised that the bike is given regular and scheduled tune-ups, missing even one secession might affect its performance. Simple check up of all movable parts, nuts and bolts can prove to be great help in maintaining it performance.

Although the seat might be a small part when considering the mountain bike as a whole, but can make the ride very uncomfortable if not kept in good condition, especially during rainy seasons. Adding a seat protection might just be the right thing to do as it will also help in increasing its life of the seat and so avoid unnecessary replacement expenses.

Regular and timely maintenance is all it takes to keep your bike in a good condition, thus avoiding unnecessary expenditure of purchasing a new bike. Temporary check ups might be fine to keep the bike in a running condition, but it’s in no way a substitute to full bike maintenance.

– About –

Andrew Caxton use to write on bike designed and similar subjects for http://www.bikecyclingreviews.com . A focused website that offers the best articles on pinarello f4:13 and sport super.

Source: Cool Biking Zone

Add comment May 15th, 2008