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Bike: Finding The Right One

It is incredibly important that a person purchases a bike that meets all their wants and needs. First of all you want to decide if there is a specific reason why you are looking to purchase a bike. For example are you going to use your bike to get to work? Perhaps you are planning to do some off road biking or plan on purchasing a bike in order to ride long distances. If you are made well aware of what type of bike is going to meet your personal needs you are going to be able to avoid a common problem faced by many looking to buy a new bike. This dilemma is not being well informed before making a bike purchase and ending up with a style of bicycle that does not meet your needs at all. Bikes are available to consumers in a number of different styles in order to accommodate for different body shapes, a wide assortment of accessories that can be used to mold the bike to your individual needs and a wide range of prices for different styles of bikes.

There are a few different styles of bikes available to consumers and each style has its own features and benefits.

Here is a brief description of each bike.

Road Bike: A Road Bike is very striking and lightweight. Road bikes were outlawed in the year 1934 because they were considered to be too fast. However over the years they began to make a real comeback. The style of a road bike makes it perfect of recreational riding, traveling to work in the city or enjoying a leisurely ride down a country road.

Mountain Bike: Mountain Bikes are made to be able to keep up their power while being lightweight and well built. The simple, straight forward riding position of a Mountain Bike makes it an excellent choice for recreational riding as well as riding on advanced trails lots of rocks and dips along the road.

Touring Bikes: A Touring bike is made for those planning on traveling on more intense terrain. A touring bike is very similar in appearance to a bike built for racing however touring bikes are a bit sturdier. Due to advances in bike building technology, touring bikes are manufactured to be very light in weight while being able to hold up while being ridden over very intense roads.

City/Commuting Bikes: A Commuting bike is built solely for use on the asphalt. A City Bike is ideal for those looking for alternative means of transportation to their job as long as you do not have a lot of items to transport along with you.

Cruiser/Tandem/Comfort: A Cruiser Bike is the perfect choice for those looking for a bike simply to ride along easy terrain. This style of bike is a wonderful choice for families that wish to bike together. A tandem bike is also a fantastic choice for families or even couples that wish to enjoy a bike ride together.

So before you purchase a bike make sure to consider your specific desires. Once you are sure of where you will be going with your bike you will be better informed and able to select the bike that is perfect for you.

By: James Brown -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

James Brown writes about Nashbar Bikes , Performance Bike coupons and Bike Promo Codes.

 

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Remembering Bicycle Safety

Bicycle safety is a very important part of riding a bicycle. People ride bikes for many reasons including recreation and relaxation, for exercise, muscle toning, and weight loss, charity bike-a-thons, wine tours, bicycle races and many more!

Riding a bike can be such a rewarding experience, but proper bicycle safety is a must! The following paragraphs will discuss bicycle safety, as well as how it applies to different aspects of bicycle riding.

A person who wears a protective helmet to guard their head understand is very important when you are riding a bike. It is very easy to injure your head or brain if you are involved in a bicycle accident, fall off of your bike, or lose your balance while riding. By wearing a protective helmet, you are taking steps in the right direction to guard your head and brain from possible injury due to accident. Some examples of when a protective helmet is absolutely necessary include when a child rides a bike, when an inexperienced cyclist rides a bike, bike-a-thons, bike races and mountain biking.

Knowing you are protected can boost your confidence level, and make your bike riding experience more enjoyable.

In addition to wearing a protective helmet, there are instances when you may also want to wear protective pads when riding a bicycle. For example, when a child is first learning to ride a bike, they will often take spills. In order to prevent knee and elbow abrasions, there are knee and elbow pads available to wear while learning. This protective gear plays a very important role in bicycle safety, and not just for bike riding beginners.

During bike races it can be important to not only wear a protective helmet, but to also wear protective padding available for adult cyclists. Very often during bike races, cyclists will be involved in accidents and sustain injury. By wearing protective elbow and knee pads, a cyclist is decreasing his or her chance of serious injury in case this should happen.

No matter what reason you are drawn to get on a bike, knowing proper bicycle safety can help prevent serious injury. It is very easy to have an accident on a bicycle, and wearing the proper safety gear can help protect you in case of an accident. Any time a person who rides a bicycle they must first consider wearing all of the proper protective and safety gear.

By: James Brown -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

James Brown writes about Sports Authority coupon Codes, FogDog Coupons and Bike Coupons

 

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Why To Own A Road Bike

This articles gives information on road bikes and figures out why they are popular.

The oldest and most popular form of bikes is the Road Bike. These have been an eye-catcher for people since decades and one can easily find several deals on the internet to buy Vintage Road Bikes. These bikes are popular as they are light weight and have been designed specifically to ride on smooth roads. One can easily sail on a flat road for miles with an ease and speed, which cannot be found in any other bike ride.

Why Are They So Popular

Tires: - The road bikes are swift as they run on thin tires - tires are kept as thin as possible so that the drag produced is minimum. As the friction is minimized, these bikes can attain high speeds within seconds with very little effort. A word of caution – as the amount of friction is lessened on the bike tires; stability of these bikes also comes under scanner. They are less steady as compared to mountain bikes (which depend a lot on stability and road grip due to the terrain on which they are used).

Handlebars: - Propelled by new innovations in road bike design and technology over the last decade, these road bikes have become a treat to watch. The metallic colors and designs often prompt you to stop and have a second look at them. To add style to them, these come with special curved handlebars that give many hand arrangements over long runs. These handlebars also assist the rider to a have a low, smooth riding stance.

Gearing System: - Another astonishing feature about these bikes is the gearing system. In order to provide a relaxing feeling over along distance, most modern bikes have triple chain-rings at the front and around 10 rings on the rear wheel. This allows a huge gear range so that bikes can cope with steep hills and twisting roads. Even the ones used for racing and superior performance employ such gear technology, as high gears are required for faster speeds. Integrated brake levers and gear shifters is another recent advancement that has allowed bikers to change the gear and pull the brakes, both at the same time, with very little movement of hands.

Road Bikes – An Asset to Own

With the amount of work, money and time being invested in road bike technology, it is an investment to look out for. If someone has not driven these latest bikes, that person is certainly missing something in his life.

By: Alastair Hamilton -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Alastair Hamilton publishes articles at www.bikecyclingreviews.com .A website with tips on bicycle review at road bikes

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Learn Mountain Biking

Riding a mountain bike is pretty much the same as riding any other type of bike. Except for the rocks, the fallen trees, the streams and the occasional mountain. In other words, mountain biking is the extreme version of two-wheeling around the neighbourhood. It can be dangerous, so should be respected and even a little feared. If you want to hit the trails, you need to learn mountain biking skills.

Mountain biking skills involve agility, balance and stamina. Review the following list of exercises, and find a suitable place to practice. These can be don at home, at a school or park, on a bike path and ideally, at a place with a steep hill.

Sit and Spin
In other words, just go for a ride. Get on your bike and cruise around to find the best position for mountain biking. Your arms should be slightly bent. Your legs should be 70 to 90 percent extended at the bottom of every stroke on the pedal, so it may be necessary to adjust your seat higher or lower.
Get used to keeping your body relaxed because when you're on the trail, your knees and elbows should never be locked.

Feel the Pedal
While on your bike, practice moving your foot away from the pedal. Do this first while sitting on your bike with one foot on the ground, then try releasing and replacing your foot while pedaling around. If you have toe clips on your pedals, you'll need to spend a little extra time with this exercise. There will be times on the trail that feet will have to leave the pedals. Make sure you're comfortable with this move, before you have to use your feet to balance yourself over a bumpy path.

Switch Gears
Get used to shifting gears. You'll use them a lot on the trails. Higher gears make the bike go faster, but it's harder to pedal. Lower gears make pedaling easier, so you'll use these gear positions when climbing hills. Be sure to shift to a low gear before you reach the hill, rather than when you're already climbing it.

Drop a Curb
Ride down the sidewalk, and then find a curb that's easily accessible. Approach the curb at moderate speed, stand up and coast right down onto the road (look for cars first!) If you want to learn mountain biking, you need to know how to handle sudden drops. Try this exercise at different speeds until it becomes second nature.

Coast is Clear
Coasting on a bike can feel like flying. Get your bike up to a reasonable speed, stand on your pedals and just cruise without sitting down. Keep your arms bent, don't lock your knees, and try to lean your body towards the rear end of the bike. Mountain biking involves very little sitting, so spend some time coasting to get used to the feeling.

Stand and Pedal
Just like coasting, you'll also spend a great deal of time pedaling while standing. While pedaling, simply lift your body off of the seat. Or, start off standing on the pedals then start cranking them. After you've mastered standing and pedaling on flat ground, practice while climbing a hill in lower gear.

It's easy to learn mountain biking. You already know how to ride a bike, so now it's time to master these additional techniques. Once you're comfortable coasting, dropping, standing, pedaling, spinning, and switching gears, you'll be ready to hit the trails, and tackle any challenge along the way.

By: Christopher Johnson -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Christopher Johnson is an author for several popular web magazines, on recreation and hobbies and sports subjects.

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Bicycle Brakes

Remember when you were a kid, and you first dared to ride your bike down that really steep hill in your neighbourhood? The ride down can be a rush. Stopping isn't always so much fun. Bicycle control relies on two elements: steering and brakes. If either of these is missing, you are an out of control cyclist, hazardous to yourself and others.

History's first bicycles had no brakes. Band-aids hadn't yet been invented, so the next logical step was to devise a stopping system. Thus, brakes were born to help riders slow down and stop, and bicycles suddenly became more popular. By increasing frictional force on the wheels, cyclists were able to slow down and stop.

The first widely used braking system was called "the plunger". It first appeared on the high-wheeled bicycles that were popular in the 1800s. The plunger operated on a simple principle. To slow down a bicycle, a lever was either pressed down or pulled up, causing a metal show to press against the outer side of the tire. Of course, the friction created caused excess wear and tear on the tire. Cyclists found that the plunger did not work well with pneumatic tires, even after covering the metal shoe with rubber. Wet surfaces were another drawback, as water decreased the friction between the brake shoe and tire, reducing the braking power.

The next major development in bicycle brakes was the "coaster brake". Most of us have used coaster brakes, still popular in pint-size toddler bikes and tricycles. Some utility bicycles and cruisers also use coaster brakes. The concept behind coaster brakes is simple reverse motion. When the pedals are moved in a reverse direction, the brake mechanism inside the hub of the wheel pushes outward, creating friction and slowing down the bike. Coaster brakes are quite strong and tend to lock up and skid the rear wheel when engaged, so they're great choices for sidewalk burnouts.

Most of today's mountain, road and stunt bikes use caliper rim brakes. By pulling a lever, a cable is tightened. This cable then forces the brake pads or shoes to press against the inner rim of the wheel, stopping the bike. Caliper bicycle brakes are light and relatively inexpensive, but they do come with their own set of problems. Not hugely efficient on rainy days, wet brakes take twice as long to stop a bicycle because the water reduces friction between the brake and the wheel. Caliper brakes work best when pressure is applied gently.

It is important to balance the braking between the front and rear brakes while riding. If too much brake pressure is applied to the front wheel, your momentum and body inertia will take you right over the handlebars.

Over the decades, braking systems and materials have changed, but the fundamentals of slowing and stopping a bicycle have not. Bicycle brakes are still based on the concept of friction, and are still vitally important to your safety.

By: Christopher Johnson -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Christopher Johnson enjoys writing for several popular web sites, on hobbies and recreation and outdoor recreation topics.

 

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Essentials Of The Bicycle Wheels

The article refers to the different contents of the bicycle wheels. It tries to explain the role that these important parts play in the smooth running of the wheels.

There is no better way to spend a weekend than to go on a leisurely ride on a bicycle on a quiet track in the woods. Bicycles have an old world charm about them and even in this fast-paced world has its own prominent place. Of all the parts of the bicycle, it is the bicycle wheels which are the most important ones. Bicycle wheels are the ones which carry the entire burden on them and thus need to be very carefully observed.

Types of Tires

Almost 99% of the bicycles have the clincher kind of tires. The clincher tires consist of an outer tire with a cross section which has a typical U – shape while there is another inner tube within the tire. Apart from these parts there are three key parts which create the tire. The first part is the Bead which is basically the rim of the tire. Normally, the beads contain hoops which are made up of steel wires which are very strong. The second very important part is the fabric. Tire manufacturers weave this cloth fabric between two beads to make the basic framework of the tire. The third major portion is the rubber. Rubber is used as an outer layer to the fabric. Rubber is used only after the basic framework is complete.

Apart from the clinchers, the bicycles also have wheels which are known as tubular tires. Unlike the clinchers, the tubular tires do not have any beads. In the tubular tires, the two rims of the tires are actually stitched together around the inner tube.

Other Tire Aspects

Bicycle tires have a part called traction. This traction is basically the resistance capacity of the tires which avoid skidding or slipping. Another very important aspect of bicycle wheels is the width and pressure of the bicycle wheels. The width and pressure of the wheels are inversely proportional. This implies that if the width of the wheel is greater then it has a low pressure and if the width is not very wide then it has a high pressure. Also generally, the wheels are made up of two basic types of rubber, namely natural latex rubber and butyl.

There are several other points apart form the features mentioned above. However, these are the most important features which make up the basic framework of the wheels of the bicycle and without which the wheels cannot work.

By: Alastair Hamilton -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Alastair Hamilton use to write for www.bikecyclingreviews.com .For additional information on truing a bike wheel subjects follow this link bicycle wheels

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Perfect Bicycle Saddles

The article provides detailed information about the intricacies of bicycle saddles. The article also talks about the common misconceptions that people hold about bicycle saddles

While riding a bicycle, the rider must enjoy the ride to the fullest. This is possible only when he has a good bicycle with an extremely comfortable seat. With an uncomfortable seat, riding the bicycle can cause a nerve breaking experience. This is how, bicycle saddles are so important.

Saddle Specifications

Saddle is defined as the seat for the bicycle rider. Thus, it obvious becomes an extremely crucial part of the bicycle. There are specific dimensions of the saddle which are necessary to make it comfortable seating for the riders. To make the seats more comfortable, they also consist of polyurethane seat pads. These pads are very strong and are long lasting. They can endure all kinds of weather. Another very important component of the seats is the pre-loaded suspension system. This system minimizes the jolts and effects of the bumps to the riders.

These saddles are now available even in the most modern and state-of-the-art designs and makes. They are made of ergonomic designs. They come with seat posts and clamps and are easy to install. The saddles with ergonomic designs are made up of the best suspension system which makes even long rides very comfortable. The saddles are made in such a way that it does not create any harm to the body of the rider. The ergonomic designs allow the seats to be wide enough so that there is a proper weight distribution possible. The seats are also equipped with ventilated seat slots which do not allow any moisture or any heat to build up. The ergonomic design also has center relief system which does not allow any pelvic or perineal pressure. The saddle is carefully made so as to not lead to any chaffing of the inner part of the thighs.

Saddle Myths

Many people believe that saddles are responsible to several physical troubles, especially to the frequent bicycle riders. Many people believe that saddles can cause reproductive disorders. There is a common misconception that saddles can cause impotency among males. This is just a myth and there are several factors apart from the saddles which can cause health problems to the riders. Apart from saddles other factors refer to the rider's height, weight, size of various bones and bone structure, body structure, terrain, ways and habits of riding of the riders and even other features of the bicycle.
Thus, it is important that riders have bicycles which are fitted with the appropriate saddles which can give them a fun-filled ride.

By: Alastair Hamilton -

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Alastair Hamilton is a syndicated columnist of www.bikecyclingreviews.com . A focused website that offers the best articles on bike parts and gel flow saddles , read more at bicycle saddles

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Being Prepared On The Mountain Bike Trail

When you go out mountain biking, there are certain things you should take so that you get home every time. Tools, supplies and food are the essentials. The key is to take what you need but not more - nobody wants to be hauling extra weight, but you can be prepared with just a few things.

Most important is to have a spare bike tube along with the tools required to change it. There is nothing worse than a flat tire, especially if you are well into your trail ride as it can make for a extended walk back. You could run out of daylight if your flat occurs in the late afternoon. Nobody likes getting stuck in the dark, especially when a bit of prevention and planning can avoid this. Bring along a spare inner tube with the proper valve type, either the schraeder or the presta. Make sure you also have 3 tire levers to remove the tire and a bike pump. To really be on the safe side you could also carry a tire patch kit in the event of a second flat tire. Change a tire at home so you don't have to figure it out while you're out on the trail.

Mountain bikes are put together with allen bolts so make sure you carry a folding set of allen wrenches. Extended rides over bumpy trails can tend to make bolts loosen up. You also may want to make adjustments while on the trail to your brake or gear levers. Allen keys sets are quite small and inexpensive. If you know how to use a chain tool it wouldn't hurt to bring one along in case your chain let's go or requires adjusting.

Make sure you bring enough food and water for your mountain bike ride. A great compact snack to bring along are powerbars, as they prevent you from running out of steam. If you ride when you are tired your risk of becoming injured is greater due to lack of attention. A good supply of water is critical to keep yourself properly hydrated. You can carry frame mount water bottles or use a bladder setup like a Camelbak. In addition to carrying your water, a Camelbak has storage space for tools and spare tubes.

Always make sure you are dressed appropriately for your mountain bike ride. Keep in mind you will warm up quickly after starting your ride, so don't wear a heavy jacket that you'll end up removing it after 15 minutes. It's best to dress in a series of light layers. Keep in mind that if it's wet or cold, your feet and hands will feel the cold the most. Wear riding gloves and socks suited to cycling. Your local bike store can assist you in selecting the correct gear for the kind of riding you will be doing so try and establish a good relationship with them.

By: Travel Guy

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

For more informative articles on mountain bikes and mountain biking visit www.mountain-bikes-biking.com

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Bike Survival Kit

Ride Safe (The Tools Every Biker Should Have Along for the Ride)

It’s actually quite easy to do routine maintenance on your own bike. And having the right tools for the job can mean the difference between enjoying an all-day ride and having to pack your bike up and head back home when something goes awry. So, what tools do you need to take along for the ride? First and foremost, you should have the tools to repair a flat fire. Next, invest in the tools needed to maintain your chain and brakes.

Bike Survival Kit

A basic bike survival kit should include:
Tire patch kit
Pump
Chain tool
Screwdriver
Spare tube
Wrenches in various sizes

A more extensive bike survival kit would include:
Chain cleaners
Solvents specifically designed for bike chains
Lubrication

Things to Check for Before You Hit the Road

Brakes: Ensuring your brakes are working well is vitally important. Make sure you check your pads often to prevent rim damage and to ensure that your bike actually stops when it is supposed to. Adjusting the tension is also important.
Chain: Degrease the chain and re-lube it. Clean rear sprockets with a brush tool.
Gears: Check derailleur gear action and cables. Degrease chain and re-lube. Clean rear sprockets with brush tool.
Pedals: Make sure the axle spins freely. Check bottom bracket axles for looseness.
Steering: Make sure handlebar and stem is tight.
Frame: Check for damage. Make sure the seat is adjusted appropriately for your height.
Wheels: Make sure spokes and nipples are tightened and wheels are trued.
Check tire pressure and condition. If your suspension fork is quick release, make sure they are tightly fastened, and don’t forget to check tire pressure.

By: Blue Sky Cycling

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

Blue Sky Cycling is committed to bringing you the hottest mountain bike parts and mountain bike accessories on the market today for the lowest possible prices. We guarantee it! Feel free to email us at: info@blueskycycling.com or give us a call: 1-800-585-4137. This article was written by the expert staff at Blue Sky Cycling. Please retain all links.

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Your Mountain Bike Needs A Little Lovin' Too...how To Care For Your Bike!

When you’re out on the trail, miles and miles from home, you don’t want any serious mechanical situations occurring with your bike. Pushing your bike up and down steep, slippery slopes is not what mountain biking is all about. You want a fun, exhilarating ride, and the best way to ensure this is by keeping your bike in good mechanical order. Here we look at a few things you should do to keep your bike in shape.

Clean your bike after each ride
When you’re out all day on the trail, you’re bound to get dirty, and so is your bike. While you might not mind staying dirty for a while, your bike does. When you get back to camp or when you load your bike into your car, give it a quick clean with some spare water. If your bike is caked in mud, clean the excess gunk with a stick. When you get your bike home, give it a thorough clean. Take particular care in getting all the mechanical parts as clean as a whistle.

Keeping your chain lubricated
Once you have cleaned all the crap off your mountain bike, then you need to lubricate the chain. A dry chain will eventually lead to big problems, including kinks and broken links. And Murphy’s Law clearly states that this will happen at the worst possible time, when you’re miles from anywhere. Before you lubricate the chain, make sure that it is clean. Also, clean the gear sprockets with a small brush. There are special chain lubricants available specifically designed for the rigors of mountain bike riding, so use these instead of a general purpose lubricant.

Lubricating your brake cables
While we’re on the subject of lubrication, every now and then you should lubricate your brake cables. You don’t need to do this as often as your chain, but you should do it periodically. It’s really quite simple to do. Remove the cable from both the brake housing and the levers and then remove the cable from the plastic covering and lubricate the whole length of the cable before putting it all back again. If your brakes feel sticky, then this may be all you need to do to fix it.

Adjusting your brakes
Your brakes can really come in handy when you’re on a big downhill ride, so the last thing you want is for them not to be working properly. Before going on a ride, always check your brakes are properly adjusted. Firstly, if you have cantilever or V-type brakes, check that your brake pads are not too worn and that they are adjusted properly. If they need replacing, then do so. It may be a good idea to have some spares just in case. Alternatively, they may just need a little adjusting which is a simple procedure. It may just be a little fiddly and may require some trial and error. Next, adjust the cable from the brake and then do the fine tuning from the handlebar brake levers. If you have disc brakes, these will require a more complex service so you should closely follow the directions in your owner’s manual.

You should do a full service on your mountain bike periodically. The length of time between services will depend on how often, and how hard you ride, and the conditions in which you’re riding. If you enjoy spending time on your bike in the great outdoors, then you’ll need to be prepared to spend a little time with your bike in the garage as well.

By: James Sanford

Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com

For more information, reviews and tips on mountain bikes visit James Sanford's website at BikingHeadz.com, the complete online buyers guide on bikes and bicycles.

 

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Cycling_In_A_Group - Essential Knowledge
By Matt Mccullough

Riding in group can be both a daunting and exhilarating experience for those starting out in the sport. If you catch onto a riding group while out on the road or head out with a group of friends there a number of simple but specific things you'll need to know to both remain safe and become a smooth part of the riding group.

To begin -- why do cyclists ride in groups? Put simply -- it's more efficient. In what is primarily an endurance sport conserving energy where ever possible is vital if you want to go the distance and still have something to pull out of your hat when you get to the finish line or hit the hills. Drafting, or riding in another cyclists slipstream, will mean you expend thirty percent less energy. When cyclist are sharing the task of breaking the wind at the front of the group it means they can go faster for longer and tire less quickly. Group riding skills and knowledge are vital to anyone wanting to cycle regularly.

You should try to maintain a consistent distance between your front wheel and that of the cyclist you're following. Some where around twenty to thirty centimeters is optimum. Much closer than this and the danger of collision increases, much further away and you'll lose the benefit of the slipstream and they may pull further away from you making the gap harder to close. You need to be constantly aware of what is happening up ahead, of the group's and the individual ahead's speed, obstacles coming up and general traffic around you. A group will usually communicate up and down the line informing each other of speed changes, hazards, other cyclists and cars as they go.

You can often control your speed with out having to use your brakes, which will result in a loss of momentum and possibly too sudden a speed change for those behind you to react to. By moving your position on your bike, for example sitting up, you'll get more air resistance and so slow naturally. Also pulling slightly out of the line of the slipstream will slow you although you have to be cautious if riding two abreast.

You must avoid crossing your wheel with the cyclist in front of you. This means your front wheel has over lapped the back of their rear wheel. It is extremely dangerous as a wind, or road surface can easily result in the wheels colliding. This will end badly for you, the guy in front may well not be affected but it will knock your handle bars out of line most likely resulting in you and everyone behind you crashing...into you. As the speed in group riding are much faster than when riding alone you must be very careful to pay attention. A split second of distraction can be all it takes.

With those dangers highlighted riding in a group forces you to be very focused and may well demand more of you than you would of your self in solo training. As it forms such a consistent part of racing and riding in general it is vital that you include group training as part of your larger program.

There is far more to group riding than can be covered in this article and there are many resources available on the internet to further your knowledge. It is an essential set of skills -- not only for your safety but also if you want to take your riding to the next level.

Matt McCullough has been instrumental in establishing the cycling resource site Cycling-Secrets.com. Cycling-Secrets provide resources and information to cyclists of all levels and provides free software to help you track your rides, health and progress. Cycliing-Secrets also supports a number of bicycle centred charities. http://www.cycling-secrets.com - free cycling software and resources http://monroe15.wordpress.com/- Matt's Cycling Blog

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Choosing_A_Mountain_Bike
By: Andrew Caxton

How to choose a mountain bike depends on what you are going to do with it, if all you want your new mountain bike for is going for a nice leisurely ride on the canal path or a ride in the woods with the dog, well you wont need a full suspension downhill machine with 4 inch travel on the forks and a fully articulated rear end with damping and rebound control.

Where to Start From.
If you do want to go for an easy ride in the park you don't need to spend too much, if you think you will do any off-road riding then big tread tires maybe all you need, but if you think you might try some rough stuff then you will need suspension. Gears will probably be Shimano, brakes must be V-brakes, but could be made by a few different manufacturers, all the rest of the MTB components will depend on how much you can spend. If you go to your local bike shop or big sports store and see what they've got to offer, then buy it or have look on the Internet and maybe you'll find the same thing at a better price.

The Next Step Up.
So maybe you want to be a bit more adventurous, more off-road, more forest tracks and dry boulder river beds, then you'll need something a little lighter, with suspension forks. All this will cost you more money, but will be worth it for the extra enjoyment and adventure. With a better mountain bike it will have a sportier handling and because it is lighter, it will be easier to struggle up the hills before you come flying down the other side. The components will again be Shimano and the quality will depend on how much money you can spend. V-brakes and Rapid-fire gear shifters, along with Shimano chain set, bottom bracket and headset. Handle bars, stem and seat pin should be alloy and along with a comfortable saddle you'll be set to take to the hills.

More Money, More Bike.
The next rung up on the mountain bike ladder would be good enough to race on. There are many to choose from, get on the net and surf the bike manufacturers sites and all the shop sites along with the magazines for juicy photos of the bikes. The top manufacturers in this price range, I would say are: - Trek, Giant, Specialized and Cannondale, these companies make the nicest frames with the best mountain bike parts available at the price, gears will be either Shimano or SRAM, brakes could be V-brakes or cable disc brakes, both are very good and light, most of the other MTB parts, of course will be Shimano and as usual get the best you can afford. There are many combinations of hubs and rims to make up your wheels; hubs from Shimano and rims form Mavic are the usual mix. Then you have to choose which suspension forks to put on you bike, you may not get a choice, depending on which bike you buy, the main ones are Suntour, Marzocchi, Manitou, Fox, RockShox and RST, buy any of these and you wont go far wrong.

Top Bikes, Top Money.
If you want what the professionals ride you will have to pay a lot of money a professional MTB. As with road bike at the top of the range, you can specify what you want to build up your dream bike. Top bikes frames to spend your money on could be Klien, Scott, Rocky Mountain, Gary Fisher, Santa Cruz and K2; these are some of the most sought after bike frames in the world and would be the envy of your friends. Probably the best forks to put on your frame would be RockShox SID's these are light and do all the things you need with control of all functions, there are many other to also to consider, look at how much travel they have and the rebound and damping systems. Gears again will be either SRAM or Shimano Rapid fire, XT or XTR, more money could be spent on carbon or very light alloy cranks, the brakes should be hydraulic discs from Hayes, Pace or Magura or stick to the trusted V-bakes. Wheels from Shimano or Mavic or some fancy carbon wheels, but remember they will have to take a lot of punishment, so maybe better to go for reliability over light weight expense. Carbon handle bars, stem and seat pin and a light weight race saddle and Time or Shimano SPD clipless pedals, then your choice of tires will depend on what terrain and ground conditions you are going to ride on.

And Downhilling?
Downhill bikes are very different, more like a cross country motor bike, but without the engine, low center of gravity and a lot of travel on the suspension on the forks and the rear end, disc brakes, wide rims and fat tires, gears are only at the back as usually a single chain set is used. Unless your going to do a lot of downhill racing then there isn't much point in buying one as you have to get up the hill first before you can come down and as light weight is not an issue with downhill bikes, they are very heavy to get up hill with out the use of a tow rope or a ski lift.

About the Author
Andrew Caxton is a the Webmaster and publisher of http://www.bike-cycling-reviews.com.   A cycling site that focuses completely on road bikes and mountain bikes reviews

 

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Looking_Into_Mountain_Bike_Helmets

By Alison Addy 

You may think that mountain bike helmets are all the same but in fact you would be wrong. Whilst all helmets are designed to protect your head, some are better designed than others. If you take more care choosing the right helmet to suit you then you will have less of a risk of injuring yourself if you do fall off your bike.

Wearing the wrong type of helmet for you can end up in you suffering from a serious head injury. So how do you know when a helmet is right for you?

Choosing the Right Helmet to Suit You

As the helmet is the most important safety accessory that you will purchase for mountain biking, you need to ensure that you spend a good amount of money on one. Whilst you may not want to pay a large amount of money for something that you do not necessarily want to wear, it is vital that you do purchase a good helmet. So never compromise the quality for a few dollars as it is simply not worth the risk.

Firstly when choosing the right helmet to suit you, you will need to look into the materials that they are made from. Look for a material that is durable and which have a soft inner lining. This soft inner lining is extremely comfortable and it also helps to cushion the head if you do suffer a collision or a fall. A comfortable helmet is essential. So before you purchase anything, always ensure that you try it on first.

Once you have chosen the right helmet for you, the next important step is to ensure that you wear it properly. So many head injuries occur because riders have not fitted their helmets properly. So the best way to ensure that you have the helmet on properly is to slide it forward on your head so that it is roughly half an inch above the eyebrows. Obviously you do not want to cover your eyes with the helmet so take care not to obstruct your vision as you adjust the helmet. Once you are happy with how it is placed, make sure that the straps form a "y" shape around the ears. You should also adjust the straps around the chin. Ideally they should feel snug and not too tight.

In order to see whether the helmet is fastened on well enough, try moving it backwards and forwards. You should aim for the skin to move with the helmet, but you do not want it too tight. So if the helmet pinches you whilst you are moving your head backwards and forwards then you will need to adjust the straps a little to make the helmet slightly looser.

Overall choosing the right helmet to suit you really is important if you want to prevent a potentially serious injury.

About the Author

Alison Addy is the copywriter of http://www.bikecyclingreviews.com A website with tips on bicycle helmets and bicycle accessories.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Alison_Addy

 

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Setting_Appropriate_Pressure_in_Mountain_Bike_Tires

By Paul Kramer 

Riding a bike is more than just balancing and paddling. To get the true joy of your ride, it is mandatory to have appropriate tire pressure in your mountain bike. This has a marked effect on your bike's performance. Tire pressure can vary significantly between rider to rider and tire setup to tire setup. Trail conditions and the type of terrain can also greatly affect what tire pressure you should run.

What you have to understand is what pressure suits you the best. This will be different in different terrains, but you will have to find it out. Here is a guideline for you to understand the effects of different tire pressures on your biking performance.

Low Tire pressure

When your bike has tire pressure lower than ideal, you will have the following effects:

• More Friction: your tire will go flatter with your weight and the weight that you are carrying. This will increase the ground contact and cause more friction.
• Difficult Paddling: you will have to exert more force while paddling your bike which will eventually burn you out sooner than your usual distance.
• Tire Damage: excessive low tire pressure is likely to damage your tire. If you ride constantly with low tire pressure, you will wear out your tire sooner than its prescribed life.

High Tire Pressure

If you feel that riding a bike with an absolutely tight tire, you are doing something which is not advisable. A tire with high tire pressure will affect your ride in the following way:

• Lesser Ground Contact: a tire with air pressure higher than normal will have lesser ground contact, which means that you will have lesser friction than what is required. It will give you lesser traction than what is required, especially while negotiating a steep climb.
• Bumpy Ride: higher air pressure will make your ride bumpy as every stone and pebble will send its effect to you directly which otherwise a tire with normal air pressure would absorb.
• Wear and Tear: when your tire stops its shock absorbing action due to high air pressure in the tires the overall impact will be gradual damage to your bike. Parts will wear out sooner than its prescribed life.

It is very important to maintain ideal tire pressure in your tires at all times for a comfortable and stable ride.

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How_to_Get_Your_Girl_to_Ride (Without Her Dumping You)
By Carl Martens

 

Lucky you. After years of agonizing bachelordom you finally found a great girl. She understands your need to control the universe of the remote. She doesn't nag you about the toilet seat. She's a gourmet cook. Maybe she even enjoys Sportscenter. She's athletic and beautiful and sexy and she loves you.

But she doesn't ride. Why not?

Maybe she's not comfortable on a bike. Or maybe she's comfortable on a bike but has visited you in the emergency room too many times. Could be some past boyfriend ruined any chance of her ever riding again. Probably she thinks mountain biking is too hard core.

But wouldn't it be great if the two of you could ride together? Wouldn't it be cool if once a week the two of you could go for a jaunt or if (someday) she could come along on a group ride?

Well, she can, but she's going to need your help. Below are Tracey's Top Ten Rules for getting your girl to ride. The rules don't guarantee success but might increase your chances.

Rule 1 Start the discussion.

Begin talking about how great it would be if the two of you rode together. Promise it'll be just the two of you until she's ready to ride with others. If she has girlfriends who ride, encourage her to ride with them a few times before she ventures out with you. If she doesn't have any female friends of the dirt variety, find a local group of strictly female mountain bikers and drive her to her first ride. She's intimidated by your riding ability, the sport, and her own insecurities. Tread carefully.

Rule 2 Do not overinvest.

If she doesn't have a bike, borrow one or get a used one cheaply. Buy only the essentials: bike shorts, glove, and a helmet. A thousand dollars is a lot of money to spend on what could turn out to be only a one-day outing. You don't want her to feel guilty about the $600 Trek spending the rest of its years in the garage.

Rule 3 Tell her the basics.

Knowing how to corner is important, but not necessary for the first ride. The most intimidating, confusing, and important things about mountain biking are shifting and braking. Give her a lesson on shifting gears and using the back brake. Tell her about cross-chaining so she doesn't work against herself. Do this in the parking lot right before the ride so she remembers. Teach her trail etiquette and explain why uphill riders have the right-of-way. Stop there. Answer her questions, of course, but resist the urge to tell her about torque and ratios. Her eyes will glaze over under the haze of too much information.

Rule 4 Start slow.

Maybe your girl is a yoga instructor or world-class skier. Doesn't matter. Take her on a beginner ride. Remember mountain biking is an inherently dangerous sport. Just because she's in shape doesn't mean she's ready for an intermediate trail. She needs to focus on braking, gearing, and trail etiquette. Throw a rock garden or steep uphill into the mix and the chances for failure increase exponentially.

Rule 5 Be a gentleman.

Give the bike a once-over and fix any mechanicals before the ride. Get her bike off the rack for her. Put the front wheel on. Carry everything except her water. This means all tools, extra tubes, and the windbreaker.

Rule 6 Watch your language.

I'm not talking f-bombs here. I'm talking about how to give her advice while she's on the trail. Women speak more indirectly than men. Ever notice how, if your girl wants you to take the garbage out she says, "Do you want to take the garbage out?" Of course you don't want to take the garbage out, but she wants you to, and this is her way of asking you. Replace "You need" with "Why don't you try" or "It might be easier for you to do x if you do y." Practice using these phrases before you hit the trail. Remember it's not what you say but how you say it.

Rule 7 Be patient.

There's a good chance she's going to get discouraged and angry as she's fiddling with the gears and trying to stay upright. She might even yell at you-even though you've done nothing wrong. Whatever you do, do not yell back. She's frustrated and wants to impress you. Try not to shake your head when she walks her bike over what looks to you like a couple of pebbles. Do not laugh when she has the fall of the century. Most importantly, stay within her field of vision. There's nothing scarier than being left to your own devices in unfamiliar territory.

Rule 8 Watch her body language.

Even though you've told her "We can stop any time you want to," she's not going to be as vocal as she should. She knows you're hard-core and hardly ever stop; she doesn't want to ruin your fun. But if she's huffing and puffing after the first half-mile, take a rest. Don't ask her "Do you want to stop?" because chances are she'll probably say no. If she refuses to make eye contact with you, she's angry. If this happens, get off the bikes, enjoy the scenery, and kiss her sweaty forehead. If she wants to turn back after ten minutes, tell her the first twenty minutes of any ride are the most difficult. Determine her level of frustration/anger and decide if negotiating another ten minutes is going to be worth it.

Rule 9 Lie.

Tell her how great she's doing even if she's not. But don't overdo it because her BS meter will go off. If you can't think of anything positive to say, tell her "You're a beautiful rider" or "You look sexy on bike." Then you won't have to lie.

Rule 10 Accept that this is not a real ride.

Chances are, you're not going to get a workout: you're going to be stopping, starting, encouraging, and explaining. Both of you are paying your dues on this initial ride, but who knows? With a little effort, patience, and tongue-biting, she could turn out to be the best riding partner you've ever had.

 

For more articles about mountain biking visit our website: http://www.mtobikes.com

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Should_My_Mountain_Bike_Have_Bike_Disc_Brakes?
By Rob Pool

A mountain bike is a bicycle that is designed specifically for mountain biking, either on dirt trails or on other unpaved environments. Mountain bikes are different from regular bikes in a number of ways.

First, they have wide and knobby tires for extra traction and shock absorption.

Also, most mountain bikes are fitted with bar ends on the handlebars. However, with the increase in the popularity of riser handlebars, fewer riders now tend to use bar end extensions.

There are basically four different classifications of mountain bikes.

1. Fully rigid- Fully rigid mountain bikes have a frame which has a rigid fork and fixed rear with no suspension.

2. Hard tail- Hard tail mountain bikes have a frame with no rear suspension, and these bikes are usually used with front suspension.

3. Soft tail- Soft tail mountain bikes have a frame with a small amount of rear suspension, but activated by the flex of the frame instead of by the pivots.

4. Dual or full suspension- Dual or full suspension mountain bikes have a frame with a front suspension fork and rear suspension with a rear shock and linkage that makes the rear wheel move on pivots.

Mountain Bike Disc Brakes

There are many key components on the typical mountain bike. One of the most critical components of a mountain bike is the mountain bike disc brakes. Mountain bike disc brakes are featured on most new mountain bike models. Mountain bike disc brakes offer much improved stopping power over the previously used rim brakes.

Mountain bike disc brakes also work much better under adverse conditions. This is because they are located at the center of the wheel. Unlike rim brakes, they remain drier and cleaner than other rims. Although there are many advantages to mountain bike disc brakes, there are some disadvantages as well. They tend to weigh more and are often more expensive as well.

Maintenance on disc brakes also tends to be more difficult and costly. This is especially true of hydraulic disc brakes, which work by moving brake fluid through a hose or line to squeeze the pads together.

It is very important to make sure that your brakes are in as proper working condition. This means you need to take your bike in to your local bike shop and get a full inspection at least once a month. This will not only ensure that your brakes and the rest of the parts on your bike last as long as they possibly can, but more importantly that you can feel safe riding on a bike that you know is safe and secure and which will be able to properly handle those rugged and steep hills.

About the Author

Before you purchase a mountain bike or mountain bike accessories, make sure to visit www.mtbiking.info where you will quickly and easily find resources and information on Cannondale mountain bikes, Mongoose mountain bikes, Trek mountain bikes, GT mountain bikes, Giro helmets and Bell helmets. You will find mountain biking articles and mountain bike reviews that will save you money.

 

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Mountain_Biking_For_Beginner_Riders

Even if there are no mountains where you live, it can make sense to buy a mountain bike, just because of the security they provide, even in urban areas. And there's always the chance of a weekend ride in the country.


If you're a bicycle enthusiast, but have only tried cycling on the road, it's time you gave mountain biking a try. By mountain biking, I mean more than heading down an actual mountain - although that what most people think about when they hear the phrase "Mountain biking."

However, mountain bikes - light bikes with fat tires and front suspension - make it easy to go cross country riding as well.

So even if you live in an area that has no mountains - get yourself a mountain bike anyway! Those fat tires make for a nice ride - and as long as they're properly inflated they can go almost as fast as the thinner tires of road bikes, but you don't need to worry about going up curbs or down curbs.

There are three styles of mountain biking - the one everyone thinks of which is downhill riding, free riding, and cross country. If you're a professional cyclist or a dedicated amateur you'll want to buy a bike specifically designed for each style, but if you're a casual cyclist who'll want to try one style one weekend and a different style the next, any good mountain bike will do.

Most people will buy a brand new tool whenever they take up a brand new hobby. This is a mistake. Examine yourself. Have you done this in the past - decided on a hobby, bought all the equipment, used it once - then stored it in your garage and never used it again?

So, if possible, rent a bike first - indeed, in so doing you'll be able to try out quite a few bikes and decide on which one you'd like to buy. Make sure that the people renting you the bikes have taken proper care of them, of course, and that they're not just "beaters."

Are you a beginner?

If there's any mountain biking in your area, chances are there'll be a club or two, which will cater to beginners. The best thing to do is seek out your local bike shop. Anyone there can tell you what goes on in your area. In addition, most bike shops will have racks featuring the brochures of local clubs, and bike maps of the local trails, for free.

Practice makes perfect

If you're not in shape - you can get in shape with mountain biking... if you make a concentrated effort to do so. Set yourself goals of miles to ride each day. If you don't have the time to ride an hour or so everyday, but if you have a steep hill near your home, you can always spend ten minutes or so doing wind sprints up and down that hill. This will increase your stamina and strengthen your leg muscles no end. (Make sure you check with your doctor to make sure you have no health problems that would limit vigorous exercise.)

Don't get on a bike and then find the toughest trail and throw yourself down it. Start with beginning trails and work on your skills for a while.

Staying safe

Riders fall. Face it - it's going to happen. So the most important piece of equipment you have, after a good bike - is a good helmet. Never buy a used helmet - you don't know what's happened to it. Also of use to the mountain biker are goggles or other eye protection, elbow and knee pads, and good shoes. Always carry a few dollars and some change in a pocket so you can call for help if need be, and make sure you have identification on you at all times. (That last bit of advice is good for any type of biking, or jogging, come to that!) Always be prepared for the worst to happen, and then it [probably] never will.

By: Bobby Cruz

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Mountain_Bike_Training_Myths

By James P Wilson

Mountain bike training has a lot of "trail myths" surrounding it. When someone decides that they want to get better on the trail they are usually told things like "work on your cardio", "ride your bike more" and "get a bike fit"...but there is more to each of those pieces of advice.

- "Work on your cardio": While cardio is important, the real key to riding faster and longer is to achieve better efficiency on the trail. Cardio is like the size of your gas tank and your efficiency is like the mile-per-gallon. You can get more by working on both than simply shoving a bigger gas tank in.

Efficiency comes from working on mobility and strength in the gym and on your skills off the trail. Increased mobility and strength will result in less wasted energy on the bike as your body is better able to achieve and maintain optimal alignment and movement. Increased technical skills will result in less wasted speed and momentum on the trail which means less overall "effort" to achieve the same speed.

Add it all up and you are able to go faster while pedaling less, which means better use of the cardio capacity you already have. For most riders starting out with a mountain bike training program, this is the first place to start. Increased "cardio" is nice but if you're wasting a ton of energy on the trail it is like pouring water into a bucket with a hole in it- it will never get full until you plug the leak!

- "Ride you bike more": When new riders first start every time they go out for a ride they feel like they are improving. However, this honeymoon period soon ends and riders are left trying to figure out how to continue improving. The advice from most veteran riders is that since riding helped in the beginning, then riding more must be the answer, right?

Not so fast, my friend. Riding your bike is the best way to learn how to apply your current fitness and skill levels to the trail. After a year or so of riding most people have maxed out their current fitness and skill levels, which is why they stop improving. While riding more can improve those things, you eventually run into the ugly truth - you hit the point of diminishing returns and an extra couple hours of riding each week doesn't really improve your overall performance.

Strength and conditioning is one of the most efficient uses of your mountain bike training time and can dramatically raise your performance potential. When done right, it can improve fitness and skill levels as you develop better body awareness, strength, power and mobility. That way, when you hit the trail you are learning to apply those new levels, resulting in an increase in performance without a large increase in riding time.

- "Get a bike fit": Bike fits are great - if you're a roadie. On the trail they are very limited when the perfect world of the roadie meets the chaos of the trail. Mountain biking carries a very high technical skill element and you want your bike set up to best fit this need, not to work around your mobility and movement deficits.

Most bike fits looks to change how the bike is set up around you regardless of how those changes affect the balance and handling on the trail. Some of the most common bike fit "fixes", such as changing stem length, will negatively affect your ability to corner and handle your bike. Mountain bikers need to pick the weapon that will give them the best balance and position and then work on fitting their body into that set up. It is rarely the fit that is holding a rider back; it is more often the tight and weak rider that is holding the bike back.

While working on your cardio, riding more and getting a bike fit can be helpful and result in some progress, they are not the most efficient and effective ways to transform your trail riding. The foundational movement and strength levels of the rider determine their true potential and by working on these things you can ride faster, longer and with more confidence no matter what bike you're riding or trail you're on. Strength and mobility training deserves an important spot in your mountain bike training program if you really want to stop riding at the same level year after year.

-James Wilson-

MTB Strength Training Systems is the world's only strength and conditioning company that focuses exclusively on the unique demands of mountain biking. Riders from around the world have discovered how they can climb faster, increase their skill and have more fun by upgrading the engine that drives their bike - their own body!

Find out more about this unique program and how it can help you enjoy riding more by visiting http://www.bikejames.com. While you are there you can sign up for blog updates and get the famous No Gym, No Problem: Real Bodyweight Training for Mountain Bikers workout program.

 

 

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How_To_Properly_Attack_A_Trail With The Correct Mountain Bike Technique

By William Torneau

Riding a mountain bike with correct technique may come easy to some, but for others you sometimes must kill the old habit and get the new ones to stick. With the proper technique, mountain biking can be easier, and you can be much better at it as a result and ride over much more difficult terrain. There are three main things that you want to keep in mind when riding on trails. These tips should never be forgotten, and any professional will tell you the same and agree with every bit of information in this list.

The first thing you want to remember is to keep you eyes looking forward. This is something that a lot of people tend to forget and it can really lead to some horrible things down the trail. When you are riding, you want to look ahead instead of right down at your front tire. A lot of beginners will tend to look at where they are placing the tire and that leads to riding through bad lines or running into trees or rocks. Looking ten to twenty feet in front of your track will reduce the chance of falling, and actually make you ride much faster than you typically were before.

The next thing that you need to remember is to keep your elbows up. This is called the "attack position" and is the key to riding better and being able to handle difficult sections. If you watch any mountain bike video or race with professional riders, then you will notice that they all keep their elbows up while they ride. This actually allows you to react quicker to obstacles and terrain that would otherwise be more difficult. On top of this, it raises your balance levels and makes it harder for you to go off track and keeps your body center. So keep those elbows up and "attack" the trail.

Last, but not least, is to remember to remain on the "balls" of your feet and keep your knees bent when standing in difficult sections. This is really important because keeping your center of gravity down and low will allow you to ride much faster, and keep you on the bike and help to keep you from getting thrown over the handlebars when you hit a large bump or rock.

These techniques are very simple to remember, and will ultimately make you a better mountain biker in the long run. You will be able to ride fast, longer and with much more confidence than you formally had.

William is an active extreme sports participant. He also makes websites for hobbies. If you are interested in a dvcam deck, then visit his latest site: http://www.articlesbash.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=William_Torneau

 

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The Importance of Using Bike Lights

By Kelly Newedge

Benefits of Using Bike Lights

It may seem obvious but there is a dual benefit in cyclists using bike lights in dim/dark conditions. They are used to not only to increase the rider's visibility, but also to help others to see the rider. Lights are an extremely important piece of equipment as statistics suggest a car-bike collision rate is several times higher at night than during daylight. What is more startling is that these collisions are largely down to the inadequacy of the cyclist's equipment which can be easily prevented. Using the proper equipment makes cyclists visible to other road users and can make cycling at night much safer than this statistic suggests. The most common setup for bike lights are white lights at the front of the bike, red lights at the back, and orange reflectors on the side, but be sure to check the legal requirements of your jurisdiction as there are different rules on what is required.

Legal Requirements

Looking specifically at the UK, the regulations governing bicycle lights are set out in the Road Vehicles Lighting Regulations 1989 and subsequent amendments in the UK Highway Code. The standards for reflectors are quite straight forward however the regulation for lights is somewhat less straight forward. Reflectors must conform to BS 6102/2 or an equivalent European standard which means that bikes should have a red rear reflector and amber/yellow pedal reflectors on the front and rear of both pedals. For UK use, bike lights must abide by the BS 6102/3 or an equivalent European standard. However, it must be noted that a steady light can be used on if it flashes at a constant rate of between 60 to 240 flashes per minute and has a luminous intensity of at least 4 candela.

LED Bike Lights

Most LED bike lights have a higher luminous efficacy and a lifetime of around 40,000-50,000 hours of operation and options to dim and turn on/off the blinkering. There are varying degrees of power to bear in mind. Higher powered LED lights would be recommended for those cyclists that cycle in dim/dark conditions on a regular basis. For those cyclists that occasionally ride at night a lower powered inexpensive LED front light and rear LED flasher would be sufficient, especially for riding on well-lit streets that do not require such an intense beam. There are many types of bike lights on the market to meet the needs of all bike lovers.

Bike Lights from Magicshine UK.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kelly_Newedge

 

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Find all your recreation equipment at   the Outdoors Trinidad Recreation Store

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Find all your bike helmets at the Outdoors Trinidad Recreation Store

 

 

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Last modified: September 01, 2018

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