*THINKING ABOUT GETTING A BIKE? READ THIS*
Ok so I have done some thinking about stuff (whilst riding) about what would improve this thread. I think a kit list is a good start for anyone looking to get into biking and more specifically what to take out with you...
Ensure your bike fits your purpose, sure big DH bikes look fecking awesome but you will get no pleasure from riding a mix of xc and road on one. In most cases a full suspension rig isnt needed but it is possible to buy bikes that 'lock out' the rear shock, meaning that they can switch from 'hardtail' and 'full suspension'. If your bike is squashing about underneath you you are wasting alot of energy.
So after deciding what bike suits you you need to ensure it is the correct size, to do this you can follow this rough guide...
16" (40 cm) frame is most suitable for riders ranging from 5' to 5'8" in height.
An 18" (45 cm) frame is most suitable for riders ranging from 5'7" to 6'1" in height.
A 20" or 21" (50-53 cm) frame works for riders 6' and up.
The measurements are the distance from the seat post to the crank in-case you were wondering.
Before riding also ensure the bike is set up correctly, the seat should be adjusted so that you get a 'full stroke' in whilst pedaling, meaning that your leg should almost fully straighten before comming back round again whilst pedaling. YOU MUST ENSURE THAT THERE IS AT LEAST 4" OF SEATPOST IN THE FRAME, OTHERWISE IT WILL SNAP EITHER ITSELF OR THE FRAME!
It is also possible to adjust the distance the bars are from you by changing the stem (but I wont go into this as it will take a few rides to figure out properly what you need). Another big game changer is also tyre choice, but again you will know what you need after a few rides.
So to start you need a propper fitting helmet, gloves and a good comfy rucksack, ideally fairly simple and good quality so it can be cleaned easily. This should be able to hold your phone/wallet safely too.
In this pack you should have...
Good compact pump
Spare innertube
Tyre levers
Basic bike tool (should be around £20 with a chain tool ideally)
A good lock (you never know where you may end up)
Waterproof jacket
WATER! I feel this is the most important thing, and make yourself drink it. If you feel thirsty chances are you are already starting to de-hydrate. I get though 1 litre per 15miles when xcing so use this as a rough guide.
Phone and wallet, the wallet is especially important if you are riding solo - if you knock yourself out or similair people need to know who you are.
When not out riding maintaining the bike is very important, keep oily bits oiled and try keep the bike clean as possible. Dont use a pressure washer to clean the bike as this forces mud into bearings, just use either a hose and brush or water in a bottle/washing up bowl and a brush.
Before riding you should also have decent knowledge of how the bike works and how each component function. This is to save time when riding, say if a brake caliper locks on you know how to bleed the system whilst on the go and free it off. It sounds simple but at this point chances are you will be cold wet and muddy (if your not your not doing it right)
Now, get out and riiiiide!
