Mountain Bike Freeride

What is Freeride Mountain Biking?

Mountain bike freeride is an extreme form of off road cycling that utilizes specially designed bikes on a variety of terrains to navigate a downhill course. Freeriding consists of jump, drops, corners, curves and stunts over large jumps, logs, rocks and obstacles. For the experienced and skilled mountain bike enthusiast, the adrenaline rush and thrill of conquering challenging terrain is a large part of why the sport is so popular.

History of Freeride Mountain Biking

Freeride mountain biking has a long and storied history. It descended from a combination of advances in technology, particularly the invention of the first mountain bike by Tom Ritchey and Gary Fisher in the late 1970s. As the 1990s rolled around, mountain biking began to move beyond just cross-country racing. The 1997 World Mountain Bike Championship in Warms Springs, Georgia, demonstrates this shift, as the Championship featured the first freeride downhill course. This event inspired other events around the world to feature their downhill freeride courses in the following years.

Components of Freeride Mountain Biking

Freeride mountain biking consists of three main components: the bike, the gear, and the rider.

Bike

A mountain bike specifically designed for the rigors of freeride riding is a must. Stronger frames, forks and wheels are needed to handle the terrain and bigger jumps, so sturdiness and durability are key. It`s also important that the bike is light to give the riders the agility they need.

Gear

The right gear can make or break a freerider. Full-face helmets, elbow pads, and knee pads all provide important protection for the rider during falls and other mishaps. As for clothing, it`s important to pick clothing that is not only comfortable but also flexible, allowing for maximum mobility on the trails.

Rider

At the end of the day, the rider`s skill level is a major factor in successful freeride mountain biking. Even with all the right gear and the perfect mountain bike, you still need to have the technical ability to handle obstacles and jumps. Solid body position and balance are essential, as well as knowledge of the terrain and the course.

Types of Freeride Mountain Biking

There are several different types of freeride mountain biking, each featuring its own unique challenges and thrills.

Downhill

Downhill mountain biking requires a downhill course marked with jumps, drops (ledges), and other obstacles. Racers time themselves as they speed through the course, attempting to beat others while taking on as many obstacles as possible.

Slopestyle

This type of biking combines elements of downhill and dirt jumping, with riders attempting to pull off tricks and stunts while performing jumps and drops.

Dirt Jumping

Also known as bike park riding, dirt jumping is a specialized form of freeride mountain biking that requires riders to pull off tricks across large jumps and berms.

Conclusion

Freeride mountain biking is an extreme and adrenaline-filled sport that requires skill, gear, and the right bike to pull off a successful run. From downhill racers to dirt jumpers, there is something for everyone in freeride mountain biking. For those who are daring and skilled enough, it can provide a truly thrilling experience.