Freeride biking is a unique discipline in the world of cycling and has its own distinct riding style. An essential capability is the traversal on tough paths with plenty of varied impediments. For a successful navigation of off-road terrain, it is necessary to use specially designed freeride bikes since regular two-wheeled cycles are too difficult to manage on such uneven surfaces.
This term “free movement” is derived from the English phrase “free ride”, signifying the concept of having an effortless journey. Envisioning the difficulty of what an unprepared cyclist would face on tracks like these, a person can’t help but ask: what freedom is really attainable? Bicycle racing is a sport that requires serious commitment and great deal of preparedness. It is no easy feat to maneuver a bicycle through tough conditions, which makes it all the more important for any rider to have sound professional skills. In addition to the usual type of freeride, there is a lightweight version which offers more flexibility.
Classic and light options
Bicycle freeride is the classic way to show your extreme ride in untamed environments. Cycling offers freedom to riders in terms of trajectories, speeds, and jumps, as well as the sharpness of the corners. There are no limits to the extent of these movements. Put simply, nothing beats the freedom of flying! However, you need to be adequately prepared before taking to the skies.
– Knowledge of cycling techniques, landing and cycling.
– Constant training and conquering tracks according to the standard principle “from simple to complex”.
– Moral readiness: it is necessary to remain calm and in extreme driving strictly keep up with the rules.
– Of course, a bicycle and complete equipment.
Skiing in this fashion can provide you with a truly unique experience & the chance to appreciate the natural wonders around you. The presence of certain damp and wet areas is an attractive feature rather than something to be concerned about.
Cycling on your bike without taking proper safety precautions can be dangerous as it puts you at risk of getting serious injuries if you fall off the bike. Thus, it is important to take adequate measures to protect yourself every time you go for a ride.
The terrain consists of a variety of slopes, bumps, sudden turns and tight curves as well as high precipices. The track layout is unpredictable, making it exciting and challenging for any daredevil. Experiencing the thrill and excitement of cycling in forested areas or over rough terrain is something that most cyclists enjoy. This activity usually requires a certain level of composure and poise regardless of the environment. I’m determined to give it a go, however I want to make sure I’ve put in plenty of practice first. How to be? And here the light version of freeride will come to the rescue, and in a simple language – a lightweight look.
Lightweight bicycles don’t require any special qualifications from their riders and are very popular among tourists. They are a great way to explore the sights without investing in costly equipment or training. The light version is great for those who don’t want the intensity of a more challenging route as there are no drastic drops, long earth-covered slopes or bumpy passages to navigate. The mountain bike tracks have been modelled to replicate the experience of a classic freeride: springboards, trails and small bumps which can be found in most of the mountains. The hills are gentle, with small stones along their edges for lining, if applicable. For those seeking a mountain slope experience without the natural descent, an artificial incline structure is commonly used. It allows for unrestricted light bike freeride speed, enabling users to achieve a realistic extreme feeling.
Features of freeride bikes
Free riding is a unique type of cycling, so to take part in it, bikes must meet the specific requirements needed for it. Freeride bikes are a type of mountain bicycle specifically designed for professional off-road riding. This model is situated between a downhill and a mountain bike, making it ideal for riders who want the best of both worlds. The features of the bike for extreme movement include:
– Structural strength.
– Ease.
– Depreciation system.
– Powerful braking system.
– Wide profile tires.
The first indicator is essential for bikes used for difficult and perilous trails. The cyclist’s weight, combined with the bike’s dynamic movements, calls for a lot of strain on the bike. Underestimating its importance would be a grave mistake. This mountain bike stands out due to its strong frame made of aluminum alloys, which ensures more durability than other comparable models. All aspects of the system must abide by the same criteria for it to function in an efficient manner.
Strength alone isn’t sufficient to ensure the smooth and safe running of the track. Other essential factors like proper maintenance and durability come into play too. Bicycle weight has a huge impact on your capability to climb uphill or fly over cliffs with ease. The lighter the bike, the more efficient you will be. The more massive the structure is, the tougher it would be to traverse it. It will act like a force of gravity and pull you down as you try to jump over or climb up the cliff. Freeride bikes are designed to be light and usually weigh about 15 kg for this reason.
Bicycles that are designed for extreme riding feature full-suspension, complete with both front and rear shock absorbers to take on any terrain. Utilizing a combined system of damping and vibration damping, shock loads on the bike and the rider can be effectively cushioned. This provides a smoother riding experience for both. Shock absorbers with long travel of up to 7 inches are designed for higher durability and versatility. They come in two types – a light version using spring-elastomer, and a heavy version with its spring-oil suspension.
Professional freeride bikes are renowned for their great attention to detail in regards to the brakes. Quality brakes are essential for a smooth and reliable ride. These bikes are fitted with a hydraulic disc brake system, providing riders with a robust braking system that ensures safety and control.Durability and strength of each component is of utmost importance, especially when it comes to brakes. The discs are usually attached to the wheels at the front and back, and metal brake pads are always used.
Freeride cyclist safety requirements
In extreme cycling, there is a risk of injury in one way or another. To protect yourself, you must not only follow the techniques of tricks, but also carefully equip yourself. The most dangerous injuries include:
– Headbutt at speed.
– Fractured neck.
– Damage to the spine.
For any freerider, the most essential items to have are a robust bicycle helmet, as well as protective gear for the neck and body. Full-face helmets offer optimum protection for the head. Different from traditional hats, these caps completely cover the head including the top and bottom. Devices are designed to be worn around the neck, so they can bear all the weight of an individual if they should happen to fall. This helps protect the spine from excessive bending and keep it safe. Wearable protection for cyclists is also attached using specialized fasteners, and typically, cyclists put on their cycling-specific clothing on top of that.
Extreme cyclists are required to wear protective gear such as knee and elbow pads along with gloves that have cut off fingers for additional safety. Wearing protective knee pads helps to safeguard important parts of the legs, like the knees, from any form of injury or fracture. Elbow pads are designed to cushion your elbow joints while the gloves guard your palms from scrapes and fractures if you fall. Not to mention, the grip on the steering wheel is improved when wearing them.
It is important to note that helmets should only be used once and must be discarded after they are dropped as they are no longer considered safe. Neck protection is essential in any type of sports or extreme adventures. Falling can occur in different areas and although it should be avoided, it’s possible. Freeriding should also be done with adequate neck protection to decrease the risk of any kind of harm.