Beginner Mountain Biking Tips

[Flowrider]

I've been mountain biking for several years, and the other day, on our group ride, a person just starting trail riding asked me for some advice.

My answer was:

"There are a number of tips, tricks, hacks—call it what you like—that you'll pick up over time. In my opinion, in the beginning, try keep it as simple as possible and focus on just two things.

#1. Pick your line early.
#2. Body position on your bike. Your butt plays a big part in maintaining balance and, therefore, control of your bike"

What do you think?

What 'simple' advice would you give someone just starting out on dirt tracks.

[ReapThaWhirlwind]

Stay low to the ground and avoid leaning forward.

Given the inertia, a person may want to lean forwards because they feel it puts them in-line with the acceleration. However, this disrupts your center of gravity, as well as your handlebar control, and will result in you bailing hard on a descent or after impact on a jump (because you're too far forward over the bars—and lose control over impact on the front tire).

[Puppershep]

learn to watch Down the trail at least 20 feet.... never watch the front wheel.
learn to get your butt off the seat before bumps, not as you hit them.
learn to check your bike for loose or damaged parts BEFORE a ride.
ALWAYS check tire pressure.
NEVER "death grip" the handlebars.
Downshift BEFORE your pedal sped drops to nothing on a climb.

[meamoantonio]

The line the oldest veteran picks on a trail is often the smoothest and fastest one

[Flowrider]

Make sure you're in the right gear BEFORE you start climbing a hill