We prepared a comprehensive guide for those who would like to discover the in-depths of mountain biking. You can find below all the necessary information on what is essentially mountain biking and how to do it with a detailed equipment list. The most popular courses in Türkiye and from around the world to embark on mountain biking are also enclosed for adventure lovers!
What is Mountain Biking?
Mountain biking or MTB is an off-road bicycle racing sport that is usually set on rough terrain like mountain, desert, or rocks with specially designed mountain bikes. Professional riders compete on various locations throughout the world while trying to stay on their bikes. Specially modified bikes for off-road usage have been around since the late 19th century and its first modern world competition took place in 1950. Mountain biking is also a popular recreational activity in various parts of the world.
Choosing the Right Bike
If you are new to mountain biking, picking the right bike for yourself can be a complicated business. There are different bikes are available for every type of rider and terrain. You should visit a local bike shop that specializes in mountain bikes to learn about mountain bike types and also to find a fitting bike for yourself.
26-Inch Mountain Bike
First dedicated mountain bikes were manufactured with 26-Inch wheels since it is stronger and more resistant to impact when the rim has a smaller circumference than larger ones, like 29-Inch wheels. Nowadays, 26-Inch bikes are not as popular as they used to be.
29-Inch Mountain Bike
Larger wheel size like a 29-Inch one provides more speed and increases traction but decreases overall maneuverability.
21 Speed Mountain Bike
A 21 Speed Mountain Bike allows you to ride with relative ease at different speeds across varied terrains. 21 Speed Mountain Bike has three front gears and seven rear gears and has one of the most convenient gear systems in the market.
Electric Mountain Bike
Electric Mountain Bikes are getting more and more popular every day. They are much easier to maintain and usually help your ride farther.
How to do Mountain Biking?
If you don’t have much prior experience about mountain biking, it is best for you to get used to it on grass and flat terrain first. You can seek for local clubs to have a one on one lesson with an experienced biker. It is important to keep your body loose and shift your weight while turning so that the bike can move better beneath you.
Mountain Biking Equipment List: What Equipment is Needed for Mountain Biking?
Mountain Bike
A well-maintained and properly fitting mountain bike is the first piece of equipment you will need. Mountain bikes are hugely varied for with varied advantages and disadvantages but if you are a beginner; it is best for you to get an affordable entry-level bike.
Helmet
Mountain bike helmet is the most important safety equipment and it is a must to wear in mountain biking. A proper helmet significantly reduces the probability of concussions and other head injuries.
Protective Eyewear
Specially designed mountain bike glasses or goggles will protect your eyes from rain, dirt, dust, and debris. Protective eyewear will increase your comfort level and help you see the road conditions much better.
Gloves
Most mountain bike gloves cover the whole hand to decrease the chance of getting hurt in an event of falling on rough terrain.
Mountain Biking Accessories
Mudguards
Mountain bike mudguards are designed to act as a barrier between the tires and the bike. Its purpose is to help protecting the bike from debris and other various road conditions.
Repair Kit
A repair kit of your own is one of the best accessories to have since most breakdowns can be solved with a set of simple tools.
Point of View Camera
A mounted camera on your helmet is an incredible way to show off your moves from your perspective. If you are planning to travel with your equipment, there might be additional costs. You can click here to check the extra services price table.
When is the Best Time for Mountain Biking?
Although summer is the best season to enjoy mountain biking since the weather is generally dry and more welcoming, mountain biking can be practiced in every season.
Best Courses for Mountain Biking in Türkiye
Ankara
Ankara is the capital city of Türkiye and located in the central part of the country. Ankara is also the second-largest city of Türkiye with many natural and historical attractions. There are amazing courses for mountain biking in Ankara which are located near to the city center such as Eymir Lake, Kızılcahamam and Dikmen Valley. Book your flight ticket to Ankara to discover the city and its great mountain biking courses.
Antalya
Antalya is located in the southern part of Türkiye and is one of the most popular tourism destinations of the country. Although Antalya is mostly known for its amazing beaches and natural beauties, the city is also a significant center for extreme sports such as mountain biking. There are many detailed courses in Antalya that will also offer a chance to discover its hidden natural beauties such as Geyikbayırı-Çağlarca-Trabenna biking course. Book your flight ticket to Antalya to enjoy the city and its unique mountain biking experiences.
İstanbul
İstanbul is the most populous and most influential city of Türkiye. İstanbul has always held significant importance in history with visible historical landmarks that are scattered all around the city. Modern İstanbul is also a place to find almost every recreational outdoor activity and extreme sports; surely mountain biking is not an exception. Belgrad Forest, Aydos Forest and Kilyos district have amazing courses for mountain biking in İstanbul. With your flight ticket to İstanbul at hand, you are ready to discover the Bosphorus and the city’s refreshing mountain biking terrains.
İzmir
İzmir is one of the largest and influential cities of western Türkiye with millions of tourist every year. The city is also home to many extreme sports and many amazing mountain biking courses such as Yamanlar and Çiçekliköy. Book your flight ticket to İzmir to discover the city and try out its mountain biking courses.
Best Courses for Mountain Biking in the World
Berlin
Berlin arguably has the best mountain biking courses in Europe in terms of variety and nature. They are also not far away from the city center. Teufelsberg is one of the highest spots in Berlin and offers a challenging bike ride. Book your flight ticket to Berlin to discover its amazing MTB courses.
Barcelona
The landscape around Barcelona is highly mountainous, rugged, and hilly. Therefore, this terrain creates great mountain biking courses such as Serra de Collserola Natural Park, Parc del Garraf and Montjuic. Book your flight ticket to Barcelona to discover the city and its challenging mountain biking trails.
Oslo
You will be riding through countless mini lakes and forests while breathing constant fresh air in Oslo. MTB in Oslo is a tourism attraction on its own because of Norway’s unique topography and booking your flight ticket to Oslo is the first step to enjoy it.
Paris
Paris is a great city to visit for its unique atmosphere, vibrant social life and numerous historical landmarks. The city is also home to many MTB courses such as Paris Mountain State Park. Book your flight ticket to Paris to discover the city and its amazing mountain biking courses.
Osh
Osh is the second largest city of Kyrgyzstan and is located in the western part of the country, bordering Uzbekistan. The city is founded on the foothills of Sulayman Mountain and it offers unique mountain biking courses. Book you flight ticket to Osh to enjoy the city and its challenging MTB trails.
If you are planning to travel with your equipment, there might be additional costs. You can click here to check the extra services price table.
