deliberately the last person in the group. At key points in the ride, the Leader needs to stop and let the group bunch up and wait for an “all clear” from the Sweeper before moving on. It is the Sweeper’s job to make sure that no-one falls behind and to alert the rest of the group if someone experiences a mechanical issue. Following a good plan ensure that the group does not get lost or separated and everyone has a good experience. Stay on the trail. Simply put,
descent or climb) that are difficult or intimidating to someone. Mountain biking is a progressive sport. Like anything else, the more you do it, the better you get at it.
Especially when you are on
an unfamiliar trail, stop and take a look at features before you attempt to ride them. Feel free to walk your bike over the feature and get back on your bike on the other side if it looks beyond things you’ve ridden before. Many a rider has walked home with an injury simply because they tried to ride a feature just because everyone else did. By the same token, never
push another rider beyond their capabilities. Encouragement is great and so are demonstration and explanation, but never push another rider into attempting something they’re simply not ready for. Planning session rides with a group to go out and specifically practice difficult features is a great way to build skills and confidence. It likely goes without saying, but using proper gear helps as well. A little extra amour never hurt when sessioning difficult areas and will help ensure you get back up to
14 ottawaoutdoors
try it again. (Though of course, armour does not prevent all injuries.) Riding with a group is a great
way to enhance the Mountain Biking experience. Following a few key points will make sure it stays that way. Always make sure that the ride is planned in advance and that everyone you’ve invited knows what to expect on the trails. Appoint a ride Leader as well as a Sweeper that knows the trails. The ride leader not only leads the way, but also calls out directions and alerts other users to the group’s presence on the trail. Leaders should stop at every intersection or know that everyone is riding in close enough proximity to hear the call of “left” or “right.” The Sweeper is always
this is one of the most important aspects of Trail Etiquette. Trail Braiding is a situation that occurs when riders decide to cut a new path through the forest either because of a soft muddy area or a technical rocky section. No matter the reason for it, creating new lines is detrimental to the trail system, the forest, and the sport of Mountain Biking itself. Mountain bikers appreciate beautiful single track trails. The photo to the top left is a prime example of Trail Braiding and you can clearly see three separate trails in the same area. At one time the trail likely went through center but as it was worn in and got wet, someone went around
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