12 Dec Mountain biking tips for riding in the rainy season
There is nothing more beautiful than seeing it rain in the forest. The plants grow, the soil on the ground compacts and everything fills with green. And there is no way or human power to control this weather. Therefore we are going to have to learn to ride in the rain. So we prepare many tips to enjoy your rides in the rainy season.
Wear a waterproof jacket
A common mistake is to go out and ride with a windbreaker. Unfortunately, a windbreaker only protects from the wind, as the name implies. There are some brands that handle models with a certain degree of water repellency, but it is not enough. The water begins to penetrate and you will end up completely soaked at the end of the ride.
What you need is a waterproof jacket. There are different materials and technologies, from the simplest to the most sophisticated. The more sophisticated the garment, the more expensive it will be. The choice should be based on your budget and the frequency with which you will use the raincoat.
Always use high quality mountain bike tiers
Another common mistake that can ruin a mountain biking excursion is using low quality tiers. When it starts to rain, the road gets slippery and your bike will not have a good grip. This can cause you to fall and get injured.
It is important to use good quality tiers adapted to the terrain and the weather conditions. You can ride the mongoose 26 mountain bike because it has a very good quality wheel and it was designed for this type of terrain. It is preferable to use a mountain bike tire with more grip in wet weather, such as a semi-slick or all-terrain type.
Use mudguards
If you do not want to arrive at your destination looking like a drowned rat, use mudguards. These are simple plastic or metal plates that attach to the frame of your bike. They cover the wheel and allow you to ride through mud, water, or other obstacles without dirtying your clothes.
Use pedals with a wide platform
The low platform pedals that we all used for our first bikes are not suitable for rainy weather. When it rains, the trails become slippery and you will need more support on your feet. Using a wide platform pedal will provide you with more traction and stability when cornering.
Use a mountain bike helmet
Although it may seem unnecessary, wearing the correct helmet is not only for your safety but also to avoid soiling your head or getting hit by flying branches in the forest. It also shows that you are committed to enjoying your ride.
Use glasses or a visor
Similar to the helmet, using glasses or a visor will protect your eyes from rain, mud, and branches. It is important to use shatterproof lenses if you are going to be riding in areas with trees nearby.
Bring a change of clothes
It is very important to bring a change of clothes with you, especially if you are going to be riding for more than an hour. A pair of dry pants and a warm jacket can save your day.
Bring food and drink
It is also important to bring enough food and drink with you, especially if you are going to be riding in the forest. You do not want to run out of energy on the trail. This is particularly important if you are going on a trail race, where there may be up to five hours of strenuous riding.
Enjoy your ride
Above all else, it is important that you enjoy your ride! We hope these tips will help you get out and experience mountain biking in the rain. Although it may be more challenging, it can also be more rewarding. Happy trails!
Avoid cotton or denim garments
If there is the slightest chance of rain, avoid all-cotton clothing, this includes everything from your underwear to your socks. Cotton absorbs water, and in this case, it is what we least want.
It is best to look for garments made of synthetic materials. In specialized stores, you will find MTB that does not absorb water and dry quickly. In addition, they are designed to allow good perspiration.
Store your gloves on the climb
This is one of the best tips when mountain biking in the rain and few know it. Generally, all cyclists go up with gloves on while it rains. I’m not saying it’s bad, far from it. Wearing gloves while you are going up the mountain can help you feel less cold. However, this error can cost you the fun in the descent and even your safety in constant rain. Your gloves will be soaked when you get to the top or lowering point. Then, when starting the descent, you will pick up speed and your hands will feel a colossal cold.
On the other hand, if you put your gloves away in the rain while you are pedaling and take them out to start the descent, you will see that your hands will soon regain the necessary heat and you will not have any problem with cold in them.
Wear anti-fog goggles
In mountain biking, we make friends with the mud. There is no other choice. It is important to wear anti-fog goggles or lenses with clear mica to protect your eyes from that mud.
Some goggles even have an acetate accessory that you remove as your goggles fill with mud. If you do not have this system, it is advisable to get some good goggles with anti-fog technology. Failing that, you can apply a little liquid soap so that the drops slide off.
Don’t get cold
If you’re rolling and it starts to rain, keep moving. This way, you will prevent your body from getting cold. It is not necessary to wear a heavy jacket or thousands of clothes. When exercising, your body increases its temperature, and if you bring a waterproof jacket, it will trap the heat and keep you warm while you stay active.
Carry important things in airtight bags
Basic; Take hermetic bags to store your valuables such as cell phones, wallets, toilet paper and even your tool so that it does not rust.
Stay away from open areas
Don’t become a target of lightning. If the rain turns into a thunderstorm, it is best to stop the shoot. Stay away from open areas and do not shelter under trees that are alone.
Apply baby oil to arms and legs
To avoid skin irritation, it is recommended to protect it by applying a little baby oil to arms, legs, and any other area of our body exposed to rain. In this way, the water will slide over the oil, protecting our skin better.
Make sure you bring a change of clothes for after the ride
Bring a complete change of clothes in your car. So when you finish your ride, you can change and quickly be dry to avoid possible respiratory diseases.
Do not forget to bring a small towel, socks, and shoes among those extra clothes. So many times, we forget that the cold also enters our feet.
Avoid over muddy roads
Riding a mountain bike in the rain can be a lot of fun, but it’s important to remember some basic safety tips. One of the biggest dangers of riding in the rain is over muddy roads. When the roads are wet, they become extremely slick and can cause you to lose control of your bike.
To avoid this, try to stay away from the really muddy sections of the trail and take it slow when you do have to ride through them. If you start to feel like you’re losing control, get off your bike and walk it through the mud.
Conclusion
Mountain biking in the rain can be a challenging but rewarding experience. Just make sure you follow these tips to make sure you stay safe and comfortable. Happy trails!
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