Mountain biker in Levin, New Zealand
Mountain biking is about steering a mountain cycle over rocky tracks and around boulder-strewn paths. To tackle the trails, the requirements are physical strength, stamina and a strong mountain cycle. Mountain bikes or ATBs (all-terrain bikes) feature a frame and fork that are rugged. Their frames are often built of aluminum so they are lightweight and stiff, making them efficient to ride.
There are many styles of mountain biking that are practiced. These styles include: all mountain, downhill, trials, dirt jumping, trail riding, and cross country. While there are many different styles of mountain biking, cross country and trail riding are the most common.
Balance, core strength, and endurance are all physical traits that are required to go mountain biking. In addition to this, riders need to possess bike handling skills as well as the ability to make basic repairs to their bikes if needed. Advanced mountain bikers often attempt technical descents as well as some of the more intense styles of mountain biking such as downhilling and freeriding.