The mountain bike is the centrepiece of this sport. These bikes are built for durability, control, and performance on uneven terrain. They come in various types tailored to activities like cross-country (XC), trail riding, downhill (DH), and enduro. Key features include suspension systems, wide knobby tires, and durable frames.

For a long time popular mountain bike design has stayed pretty much the same. We are talking at a high level here, obviously leading brands have been evolving and finessing technical design, geometry, component efficiency, wheel size etc. as the popular riding styles have changed along ide the need to sell more bikes.

In the UK the introduction of the “ride to work” scheme by the government made it possible for a lot of people to purchase quite high spec bikes.

Then enter the Electric mountain bike (EMTBs) were first developed in the early 1990s by Montague Bikes. Then, in 2012 Specialized introduced what has become a bit of a C-change in mountain biking and bought out their Turbo Levo E-mountain bike – E-biking has grown rapidly since then, with all the main brands delivering their own range of E-bikes. The Ebike principally takes out a lot of the effort required of cycling to the top of a hill, either elongating your ride time or simply making the sport more accessible for the not so fit!! Again technology is evolving rapidly here, producing more powerful and efficient assist motors and batteries with a longer charging life.

Mountain bikes often feature suspension to absorb shocks and provide comfort on rough trails. Hardtail bikes have front suspension only, while full-suspension bikes include rear suspension for better control and stability on demanding paths.

Safety is paramount in mountain biking. Riders typically wear helmets designed for impact protection, gloves for grip and hand safety, and padded shorts for comfort. For more challenging rides, additional gear like knee and elbow pads, full-face helmets, and body armor is recommended.

Mountain biking offers a variety of trail experiences, from smooth dirt paths and forested singletracks to rocky climbs and technical descents. Trail difficulty levels are usually marked, catering to beginners and seasoned riders alike.

Mountain biking encompasses several styles, including:

· Cross-Country (XC): Focuses on endurance and speed over varied terrain.

· Trail Riding: A balanced approach combining technical skills and exploration.

· Downhill (DH): High-speed descents on steep, challenging trails.

· Freeride: Emphasizes creative tricks and jumps on rugged landscapes.

Each style requires different techniques, like proper body positioning, braking, and cornering.

Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure bike performance and safety. Riders often carry essential tools like a multi-tool, spare tube, and tire pump for on-trail repairs.