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MOUNTAIN BIKING & THE PHYSICALLY IMPAIRED
FINDING TRAILS
REGIONAL MOUNTAIN BIKE CLUBS & LINKS |
Single Track- Peace of Mind On a Bike "Singletrack" is a special form of mountain biking. It differs from traditional mountain biking (usually performed on dirt roads), in that singletrack is usually performed on very narrow off-road trails that are just wide enough for riders to ride single file. Singletrack trails can be steep and narrow, with sharp turns, and obstacles, such as tree roots, rocks, and water-bars. Because of steep terrain and many obstacles, singletrack riding is technically challenging. Narrow trails mean that you have very little choice in where your bike needs to go. Single-track riding requires a lot of upper body strength to control weight distribution on ever changing terrain. Keeping your front and back wheels on the ground during steep descents and up hills is difficult. You need to be able to react quickly, and turn comfortably in any direction. You also need to be able to get off and on your bike quickly from either side. You need to learn to maneuver your bike over rocks, tree roots and other obstacles. Aside from being technically challenging, single-track cycling allows you to ride in places that are isolated and out of the way. The peace and beauty of such riding is exhilarating. However it can also be a bit daunting. It is easy to get lost in the wilderness, and to over estimate the time it takes to get in and back out. Remember... if you are going downhill most of the way going in, you will be going uphill most of the way coming out. Before riding, always tell a responsible person where you are going. If you do get lost, and fail to return in a timely manner, help can be sent to find you. 
Help keep singletrack trails open
Most singletrack riding is done on public parklands and backcountry trails. In order to make sure that trails
remain open to cyclists it is important to follow a few basic guidelines. What to Bring With You On A Ride
Hydration-
Be sure to bring plenty of water. Hands free hydration packs are
recommended. Basic Tool Kit- Carry a basic tool kit that includes allen wrenches and screwdrivers. A chain breaker tool is also recommended. Spare Tube and/or Patch Kit- Carry a spare tube and/or patch kit. Tire Levers- Necessary for removing and installing tires easily without causing rim damage. Mini-Pump or CO2 Cartridge- Punctured tires are possible. Chain tool and Extra Chain Links- Broken chains happen frequently. Cell Phone- If you ride alone it is a good idea to bring a cell phone. Always let somebody know where you are planning to ride, and when you'll be back. First Aid Kit- At a minimum, carry Ibuprofen®, bandages, and Neosporin®. Snacks- Always carry some kind of energy bars or snacks with you. What to Wear When Riding Single Track
Helmets-
A helmet is a must to prevent death or serious injury.
Shorts-
Padded cycling shorts will increase your comfort on the bike.
You can wear traditional fitted cycling shorts, or "baggy shorts". Baggy shorts have the look of regular
clothing, but have a padded liner underneath for greater comfort while on the bike. Jerseys
Cycling jerseys typically perform two functions: Most cycling jerseys, even the one's that look and feel like cotton, are made of polyester, or a polyester blend so that they have the ability to wick moisture and breath. Although cotton breathes well, it retains moisture. Wearing any 100% cotton garment while riding will be uncomfortable compared to wearing a shirt made of a technical wicking fabric.
Front jersey zippers are installed to control ventilation. Zipper lengths can vary from 5" to "full length".
The purpose of the front zipper is to allow the rider to adjust ventilation by raising and lowering the zipper.
Women can now wear a coordinating sport bra under their jerseys and ventilate just like the guys. Jackets and the Concept of Layering- Layering clothing is the best way to be able to control body temperature. Remember when you stop for a snack you will cool down quickly and want to put a layer back on. Shoes- Beginning single track cyclists may want to wear comfortable mountain bike shoes instead of cleated shoes with clip-in pedals. Riding single track means that there will be places on the trail to ride, but there will also be places on the trail where you will be forced to carry your bike and walk. Although clip-ins are more efficient to ride in, they take some practice to use. Also- using shoes that you can ride and walk in will mean that you don't have to bring two pairs of shoes with you. Your cycling shoes, and your hiking shoes. Gloves- Gloves protect your hands from the cold, and prevent your hands from getting scraped on surrounding foliage. Glasses- Wearing glasses will help protect your eyes from low branches or loose stones/mud. |
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