June 2017 | 21
• Canal towpaths , as the Canal & River Trust have set up the entire network to accommodate considerate cyclists looking for muddy tra�c-free adventures .
If you ’ re looking for an exciting mountain biking experience where you don ’ t need to worry about route planning or getting caught out with a mechanical issue , �ust find your nearest �ritish Cycling �ountain �ike Leader or ask at a trail centre about group rides .
�our local cycling club will run regular off-road rides too , and if you ’ re looking to find routes nearby , they will have first-hand local knowledge to hel� you .
What to bring with you
It ’ s important to carry the right equipment – especially if you are exploring remote countryside ( via tracks you have right of way to cycle on , of course ).
Phone : A fully charged phone with a waterproof carrier will ensure you are able to reach someone in the unlikely event of an emergency .
Clothing : Wear adequate clothing for the weather , keeping in mind it has a tendency to change quickly . Carry extra layers for such changes .
If someone wants to overtake , don ’ t panic . Just pull to the side when you feel safe to . And if you are looking to get past a slower rider , let them know you are there and they will help you to pass at an appropriate place on the trail .
It ’ s also important to leave no trace ; make sure any food wrappers are securely carried in your pockets or rucksack until you can dispose of them in a bin . Even apple cores , orange peels and banana skins shouldn ’ t be dumped on the trail as they take a long time to decompose . Never leave inner tubes on the trails either , as these are hazardous to wildlife and livestock .
Ready , set … get out there !
That ’ s the basics covered , so you should now have an idea of what you need to head out and where to go . �t can take a little while to gain confidence and feel comfortable on your bike if you ’ ve not used it recently or are investing in something new , but with a good choice of go-to routes and all the essentials , you can ’ t go wrong . If you want to take the next step and discover more about mountain biking , check out helpful videos , mechanical tips , nutritional guidance and riding advice on the British Cycling Insight Zone ( www . britishcycling . org . uk / knowledge ).
Food and drink : Though most trail centres will have a café , it is essential to keep hydrated and stocked up on energy whilst mountain biking � even on flat family tracks .
Money : It ’ s helpful to have cash because some rural locations might not accept card transactions , and areas with low phone reception may have coin operated payphones .
ID : Again in the unlikely event of an emergency , having identification will be invaluable for emergency services .
Lights : Depending on the time of day , you may want to take bike lights as a precaution . This is especially important for longer rides in the autumn and winter .
Tools : Some basic tools such as Allen keys , a pump , tyre levers and spare inner tubes .
Trail etiquette
Wherever you are riding , it ’ s important to be considerate of other cyclists and users . By sharing the space , we can all have access to some truly spectacular locations and spend a great day in the outdoors .
As well as cyclists , public rights of way are open to walkers , runners and horse riders . Ride considerately , keeping their safety , and your own , in mind . The law states that when riding on bridleways , cyclists should give way to pedestrians and people on horseback , so always be prepared to slow down and give way , communicating clearly and politely .
On trails , keep in mind that faster and slower riders will be using the same routes as you . Communication and patience are essential here so that faster riders can safely get past and slower riders don ’ t feel pressured .