Mountain biking is an exciting way to experience the outdoors, boost your fitness, and challenge yourself in new ways. But before you hit the trails, it’s important to prepare, especially if you’re new to the sport. Whether you’re looking for mountain biking basics or want a full mountain biking gear list, check out our beginner’s guide to mountain biking to make sure you’re ready to hit the trail.
1. Consider What Type of Mountain Biking You Want to Do
Before you start looking for mountain bikes to buy or rent, you need to know what type of mountain biking you’ll want to do. Review the following types of mountain biking to figure out the riding style you’re aiming for:
- Cross-Country Mountain Biking: This style emphasizes endurance and distance over technical features. Cross-country trails are usually smoother with gradual climbs and descents, making them a solid option for beginners looking to improve their fitness and build their bike handling skills.
- Enduro or All-Mountain Mountain Biking: Enduro or All-Mountain Mountain Biking is more technical than cross-country and involves climbing and descending. While all-mountain biking trails can be a bit more challenging, they’re a good choice for beginners who have learned the basics and want to explore a variety of terrain.
- Downhill (DH) Mountain Biking: Designed for high-speed descents, downhill mountain biking trails are steep, technical, and full of obstacles. Because of the intensity and specialized gear required, downhill biking is better suited for more experienced riders.
2. Buy or Rent a Mountain Bike
Choosing the right mountain bike is one of the most important decisions you’ll make as a beginner. With so many options on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. The good news is you don’t need the most expensive or advanced bike to get started. Instead, focus on what feels comfortable, fits your budget, and aligns with your riding style.
What Mountain Bike Should I Get? 4 Features to Look for in Beginner Mountain Bikes
While there are more than just four features to consider when looking for a mountain bike, focusing on the bike’s frame size, wheel size, frame material, and suspension type tends to be best for beginners. As you look for a beginner mountain bike, make sure to take the following features into consideration:
- Full-suspension or hardtail: Hardtail bikes, which have front suspension only, are typically lighter and more affordable, making them a great choice for beginners. Full-suspension bikes offer more comfort on rough terrain but come with a higher price tag.
- Frame size: Getting the right frame size is essential for comfort and control. Most bikes come in XS to XL sizes, so consult a size chart or visit a local shop for a proper fit.
- Wheel size: 27.5” or 29”: Most mountain wheels are sold in either a 27.5” or 29” inch size. 27.5” wheels are more agile and easier to maneuver, which can be great for learning. 29” wheels roll over obstacles more smoothly and offer better traction, which some beginners may find more forgiving, especially if they’re starting out on rougher terrain.
- Frame material: Most mountain bikes’ frames are made out of aluminum or carbon. Aluminum frames are more budget-friendly and durable, making them ideal for beginners. Carbon is lighter, more expensive, and generally more suitable for advanced riders.
Should You Rent a Mountain Bike Instead of Buying One?
If you’re still on the fence about whether you’ll really enjoy mountain biking, some mountain adventure parks will have bike rentals available. Renting a bike (and safety gear) can be a good option for those who want to dip their toes in before making a decision. It’s also a smart way to test different bike styles before committing to a purchase.
3. Gather Your Mountain Biking Safety Gear and Clothing
Before you hit the trail, make sure you’re dressed for the ride. Wearing the right gear will keep you comfortable while protecting you from injury and improving your overall experience. If you’re wondering what should be on your mountain biking gear list, start with these beginner essentials:
- Mountain bike shorts: These padded shorts reduce chafing and discomfort, especially on longer rides, while giving you freedom of movement.
- Mountain bike jerseys and shirts: Made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics, mountain biking shirts or jerseys keep you cool and dry during your ride.
- Mountain bike gloves: Gloves improve your grip on the handlebars and protect your hands in case of a fall.
- Mountain bike helmets: Helmets are a must. Look for one designed specifically for mountain biking, as mountain bike helmets offer more coverage and ventilation than road bike helmets.
- Knee and elbow pads: Knee pads and elbow pads help prevent injuries during falls and can give beginners added confidence on uneven terrain.
- Flat mountain bike pedals: Flat pedals let you quickly put your feet down, which is helpful for learning. Once you’ve developed your skills, you might want to upgrade to clipless pedals later for better efficiency and control.
- Hydration packs: These packs let you carry water and essentials like snacks, tools, and your phone without needing a bulky backpack.
- Mountain bike repair kit: Since you don’t want to get stuck walking down a trail, you should bring a mountain bike repair kit with you. Generally, a hand pump, a small multitool with several Allen wrenches, a spare tube, and a bike chain tool will serve most repair needs.
- Protective eyewear: Sunglasses or clear-lens goggles shield your eyes from debris, bugs, and UV rays while improving visibility.
- Trail map or GPS device: Knowing your route helps prevent getting lost and can keep you safe if you need to exit the trail quickly.
4. Stick to Beginner Trails
Beginner trails are typically wider, smoother, and have fewer technical features, making them perfect for learning. They let you focus on basic skills like braking, shifting, and cornering without being overwhelmed by steep descents or large obstacles. Understanding mountain bike trail difficulty is key in choosing the right route, especially when you’re just starting out.
5. Consider Taking a Beginner’s Mountain Biking Class
A beginner’s mountain biking class is a great way to quickly get up to speed on the fundamentals. These classes teach you how to properly control your bike, brake safely, navigate different types of terrain, and understand trail etiquette. You’ll also learn what to expect from other riders and how to avoid common beginner mistakes. Signing up for an intro to mountain biking class can dramatically boost your confidence and reduce the learning curve.
Learn How to Mountain Bike at Wildside
As an adventure park in Pigeon Forge, TN, Wildside is the perfect place to start your mountain biking journey. With beginner-friendly trails, bike rentals, and instructional classes, it’s a welcoming environment for new riders to learn the ropes. Whether you’re testing the waters or getting ready to make mountain biking your new go-to hobby, Wildside has everything you need to hit the trail with confidence.
Check out our mountain biking trails, classes, and rentals today!
