Adventure Sports

Downhill mountain biking is not for the feint hearted. This adventure sport, practiced both professionally and at an amateur level, is sure to get the heart pumping.

This hair-raising pastime involves riding mountain bikes through rugged downhill slopes and difficult terrain with minimal uphill sections. The steep terrain utilised for mountain bike riding can lead to electrifying speeds, and skilled bike riders will deftly avoid obstacles and achieve significant air-time. Timed competitions and races are held all over the world, from Australia to Austria, Canada to Germany.

The first step when you start downhill mountain biking is selecting a suitable bike.

In the old days, downhill riders employed regular old street bicycles for off-road mountain terrain. These bikes were incredibly rigid and had suspension that was less than appropriate for a rugged environment.

Luckily, purpose made bikes were created for the sport in the 1990s. These included a number of innovations, such as an improved framework, a magnified and reinforced suspension system which could absorb the shock inflicted by mountain terrain, as well as disc brakes that could handle the constant braking required during descent.

When choosing the bike for you, it might be an idea to speak to someone who knows their stuff. Downhill mountain bikes can range from $US150 to $US8,000, depending on brand, quality, add-ons and whether the bike is new or second hand. Some good brands are Trek, Kona, Giant, Specialized, Cannondale, Rocky Mountain and Gary Fisher.

Also, you’ll need a range of body armour and a helmet, because at one stage or another, you are going to fall off! Bike tools will also be necessary, as you might have to fix a punctured tire or repair a broken chain when you are in the middle of a secluded mountain track.

The next step is finding the track for you.

A range of tracks can be used in downhill mountain biking, and it is important to choose a run that suits your skill level and interests. Downhill fire trails and off-road tracks can be used by less experienced riders, as they are usually wide enough, and the slopes gentle enough. More experienced riders might try steeper tracks, tougher terrain, or single tracks, which are narrow trails only wide enough for one bike.

Whether you are just riding for fun or getting involved in competitions, downhill mountain biking is an exhilarating sport that is sure to excite.

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