Riding in control not only helps prevent crashes, it keeps others on the trail safe as well. When you ride out of control, you lose the ability to adjust to the terrain and environment as you pass through it.
This can and does lead to dangerous crashes and injury to yourself and others. Mountain biking is inherently dangerous and we all like to push the limits sometimes, but there is a fine line between pushing the limits safely and pushing them recklessly.
Rule number one is to gear up properly. Always wear a helmet and any other appropriate safety equipment for the riding conditions.
Never ride beyond your abilities. There is no shame in walking sections of the path you don't feel confident enough to ride, and don't let anybody tell you otherwise.
Use appropriate equipment for the terrain. Some bikes are better for different situations; just because you can see tire tracks, doesn't mean you can ride it with your bike.
Always keep your speed at a level that will allow you to adjust to any unforeseen obstacles or changes in trail conditions. It helps if you know the path really well.
Never push the limits on a trail you are not familiar with. You need to get to know the trail you are riding at slower speeds before you can ride it like the paths you're used to.
Slow down for blind corners, you never know what or who is around a corner when you can't see past it. Stop and look at sections of the trail that look like they may pose a challenge before you ride them.
Though you never want to intentionally crash, you should plan on it happening anyways. Always look at the consequences of crashing in a particular section or on a particular stunt before trying to ride through it.
Sometimes a section can look easy to ride but can have deadly consequences to a crash. Work your way up to obstacles and stunts.
Find ways to practice moves in less difficult and dangerous situations or at lower speeds before committing yourself to something more dangerous. If you think what you are doing is not the smartest, you are probably right.
Think about what you are doing and trust your instincts. The way we ride today shapes mountain bike trail access tomorrow, so do your part to preserve and enhance our sport's access and image by observing the following rules of the path.
Rule number one is to ride on open trails only. Respect trail and road closures and avoid trespassing on private land.
Federal and state Wilderness areas are closed to cycling. The way you ride will influence path management decisions and policies.
Be sensitive to the dirt beneath you and leave no trace. Recognize different types of soils and trail construction; practice low-impact cycling.
Wet and muddy trails are more vulnerable to damage. When the path bed is soft, consider other riding options.
This also means staying on existing trails and not creating new ones. Don't cut switchbacks and be sure to pack out at least as much as you pack in.
Rule three is to always control your bicycle. Inattention for even a second can cause problems, so obey all bicycle speed regulations and recommendations.
Let your fellow trail users know you're coming. A friendly greeting or bell is considerate and works well; don't startle others.
Show your respect when passing by slowing to a walking pace or even stopping. Anticipate other path users around corners or in blind spots.
Yielding means slow down, establish communication, be prepared to stop if necessary and pass safely. All animals are startled by an unannounced approach, a sudden movement, or a loud noise.
This can be dangerous for you, others, and the animals. Give animals extra room and time to adjust to you.
When passing horses use special care and follow directions from the horseback riders - ask if uncertain. Running cattle and disturbing wildlife is a serious offense.
Author Resource:-
Jack R. Landry is a personal trainer and has authored hundreds of articles relating to physical training and fitness bike. He has been a health expert and physical trainer for over 15 years.
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