No doubt mountain biking is enjoyable and one of the best ways to connect with nature. Besides, it’s the best way to exercise as well. At the same time, mountain biking is challenging as cyclists need to ride through rough terrain – mainly off-road. Hence, specially designed cycles are used for mountain biking. They differ in the following ways from conventional bicycles:
- Mountain bikes has cycle insurance and bike are designed for rough terrains. So, they have flatter tires with rugged treads for strength and durability. Even their frames are heavy compared to road bikes.
- Most mountain bikes have suspension that absorbs shocks and provides more comfort to the rider. At the same time, most road bikes do not have suspension.
- Mountain bikes have wide and flat handlebars, while road bikes have drop bars. Flat handlebars are more suitable for climbing and provide more control on the bike.
- Mountain bikes have smaller pedals compared to road bikes. These smaller pedals allow riders to unlock their shoes quickly.
Riding a mountain bike is a different experience, so you should know certain facts about it before taking your bike to the mountains.
Always go with a group
Never go alone on mountain biking; there should be at least three people in your group. Going in a group helps to prevent chances of bike-jacking and criminality. Further, if you get injured during the trip, then there will be fellow riders to take care of you and get help.
Know about the trail before your ride
Collect as much information as possible before you start your ride, and study the trail map. It helps you to understand the challenges waiting for you on the way, and also, you get an idea of how long the trip will last. Besides, plan emergency exit routes as well; this helps you reach a safe place in case of adverse conditions such as bad weather. Also, don’t forget to carry a compass, GPS unit and mobile phone with you. Be mindful of the laws of the area you’re planning to ride.
If the trail is not familiar to you, then go at a slow pace. And never hesitate to walk in sections where you’re not comfortable.
Know your limitations
Before starting mountain biking, you should understand your physical condition and your body’s limitations. Never push your body beyond it; otherwise, you will encounter fatigue, accidents and injuries. Take a warm-up session of at least 15-20 minutes ahead of your ride; it increases the blood circulation to muscles and reduces your chances for injuries.
If you’re a novice, focus on improving your physical strength ahead of your trip. Also, practice riding in different types of terrains. And don’t attempt too much on your first trip, like dealing with sharp turns and rocks. It would help if you focused more on enhancing your endurance and aerobic capacity in your first few rides. If you do so, then you’ll be able to tackle longer rides soon.
Don’t forget to wear protective gear
Never compromise on safety measures. While riding, always wear a helmet that fits your properly. A common mistake that most cyclists make is keeping the strap loose or using a helmet that does not fit their head.
Wear clothes of the correct size. Use padded shorts while on a ride; it’ll keep you comfortable for a long time. Also, don’t forget to take waterproof jackets, knee and elbow pads, and sunglasses. Wear thick cycling socks; it prevents blisters.
Buy an insurance plan for you and your cycle
Before starting mountain biking, don’t forget to buy a cycle insurance plan and trek cover. A cycle insurance plan covers theft/loss, damages, and accidents of your mountain bike. On the other hand, a winter trek cover plan covers the risks of accidents and injuries to you, emergency travel assistance, card blocking service, etc.
Cycle Secure plan is a comprehensive cycle insurance plan that offers worldwide coverage, and its main features are:
- Emergency roadside assistance: Cycle Secure offers emergency roadside assistance in more than 400 locations in India and up to 75km away from the city centre.
- Coverage of accidental damage and theft of the cycle: Cycle secure offers protection against accidents like fire and theft to your bicycle. You can get a maximum of Rs.25,000 under this head.
- Emergency cash advance: Cycle Secure plan offers an emergency cash advance of Rs.40,000 if you’re stranded in a foreign location and Rs.20,000 if you’re anywhere in India.
- Card blocking service: If you lose your payment cards while on a cycle trip, you can contact the toll-free number to block all your lost cards. This blocking service is available round the clock.
- Discount Card: Along with the plan, you’ll get a discount card that you can use at the network hospitals, pharmacies and diagnostic centres of Bajaj Finserv.
The striking features of the trek cover plan are:
- Medical emergency cover
- Emergency travel assistance
- Emergency cash advance
- Card blocking services
- PAN card replacement
- Spare smartphone
You can purchase these insurance plans online. The application process for these plans is easy as you need to provide only basic information. After filling up the online form, you can pay the premium through any one of the available online payment options.
