Mountain Biking

What is it?
Mountain Biking is a fun, recreational off-road cycling activity, which is usually done in groups.

Safety Message
Participants should receive appropriate training and instruction and carry out the activity according to Operating Authority guidelines, in the safe use of mountain bikes, before they commence this activity, and appropriate clothing should be worn. All equipment should be checked for safety before use.

Ideas/Aims
The following list contains suggested points, which you might like to consider when undertaking this activity:

• What are the different bike choices? – sizes, styles and uses.

• Learn how to maintain a mountain bike and how to conduct a pre-riding check, and about the various tools required.

• Learn about personal equipment, for example, helmets, gloves, glasses, footwear and clothing.

• Learn how to use maps and guides to select routes that are acceptable and egal, and be able to identify your location on a map while out on a bike ride.

• Try planning rides of various lengths and that requires different levels of ability.

• Think about the impact on the environment when taking mountain bikes off-road.

• Learn about the mountain bike code of conduct, and what to do in the event of an accident.

• Make a record of all the mountain bike riding you have done.

• Learn about the correct use of gears and brakes on flat ground and gradients.

• Be able to make controlled descents down various gradients, with and without obstacles.

• Be able to mend a puncture and learn other basic maintenance repairs, and know what tools are required to do this. Make up your own puncture repair kit.

• Take part in a competition.

Review/Assessment
The assessor should make sure that the participant understands the safety aspects of mountain biking. The participant should demonstrate some of the techniques learnt throughout their mountain biking programme, and should show evidence of the rides they have been on, as well as their overall improvement in the sport.

GoverningBody/Organisation
British Cycling, The National Cycling Centre, Stuart Street, Manchester, M11 4DQ
Tel:0161 230 2301   Website: www.britishcycling.org.uk