Mountain biking in the city - Beginners
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Mountain bike in Manchester!
If you don't have a bike we have a very limited number of spare bikes that we can lend. Message me if you would like to borrow one or if you have a suitable one you could lend.
We shall be riding the purpose built trail in Clayton Vale, next to the Sportcity velodrome. This event is suitable for anyone who can ride their bike on a bumpy surface, so an excellent introduction into mountain biking. Hybrid bikes and mountain bikes are both suitable, but unfortunately not road bikes. We shall begin with a session in the skills zone where I will be happy to offer advice on riding roll-offs, steep descents, berms (banked corners) and 'pumping'. We shall then enter the wooded valley where we will tackle the light blue, and dark blue bike trails which are about 4 and 5 km respectively.
Done a fair bit of mountain biking before? See the "experienced" event.
What to bring
- A hybrid or mountain bike: - Due to the off-road terrain, road bikes are unsuitable.
- Puncture repair kit: - (or better still a spare inner tube) and tyre levers. Also any special tools that your bike needs.
- Food: - Bring small snacks such as chocolate bars and energy foods.
- Plenty of water: - Minimum 2ltrs.
- Eye protection (optional): - Impact from a bee, grit or even a fly at speed is unpleasant, sunglasses may do if not made of glass and not too shaded.
- Clothing: - Choose suitable clothes and footwear for the weather forecast and time of year. You will be exercising so lightweight layered clothing is best. Shorts are best even in rain, as they allow free movement of your legs. Jeans are useless if it rains but tracksuit bottoms need to be not too baggy or they may snag in the chain and cause an accident. You'll need trainers or similar with grippy soles for standard pedals.
- Cyclist's Helmet: - Outdoorlad's policy asks you to wear a helmet.
- Bag: - You will need a small day-sack (or panniers on your own bike) to carry essential clothing, water and an emergency snack.
Food & drink
There is a cafe (which is sometimes open) where you can buy lunch or bring your own. Please bring plenty of water.