Mountain Bike Racing
People have already been familiar with mountain bike racing. There are several mountain bike races such as cross-country, short track cross-country, downhill, dual slalom, four cross, etc. Even, mountain biking has replaced some hobbies nowadays. It is not only professional riders who go to the mountain by bike. However, only those who have been professional are allowed to join the competition. This race combines two abilities. Both abilities have to be mastered by riders. They are physiological and technical abilities. Physiological ability contains upper body strength and aerobic endurance. Meanwhile, the technical ability is such as bike handing. Based on these facts, skill and power have to work together.
Mountain bike racing - Bike before racing
Sometimes, riders will concern more about bike before racing. They consider that a bike is the only thing that is very important. On the other hand, they neglect other equipments especially shoes. In fact, shoes are as essential as the bike. Shoes for mountain bike race have been created in certain design. They are extremely different with usual shoes. Even, certain shoes have been designed according to types of riding. For cross country riding, it will be helpful if the riders apply a clip less bike shoes. Shoes with soft sole are types of shoes which are suited to be used for downhill. The race requires crazy stunt. Besides, the riders have to be careful in order to avoid injury. Most of shoes which have been designed for downhill race are burly. In addition, they cover the rider’s ankles as an additional protection. Downhill shoes are typically strong and durable. Most of them are heavy. But, the shoes provide more protection for the rider’s feet. Today, there are many downhill shoes which are lightweight. Protection has been obtained by leather paneling and strap closures. In short, the shoes have to fit with type of mountain bike racing.
Mountain bike racing – Shoes have to be snug
Another thing that the riders have to consider is that the shoes have to be snug. Nevertheless, they have to be comfortable to use as well. They have to make sure that the heels will not slip around when they are riding. In this case, some bikers prefer to choose shoes which have cleats in order to avoid slipping. This type of mountain shoes is correct choice. It would be better if the cleats are set in neutral position. If it is needed, the riders can make little adjustment. In short, the riders have to get correct fit.
Mountain bike racing – types of mountain bike racing
Besides types of mountain bike racing, the riders should consider about terrain before choosing the shoes. For warm climate, shoes with more ventilation are the right choice. If terrain has sharp obstacle, it will be better if the riders use shoes which are burlier. On the other hand, there are shoes which are specially designed for cold climate. Thermal shoes are shoes which are suited to be used in winter. Besides, the thermal shoes are quite cheap when they are compared with other types of shoes for bike racing in winter. These are several tips to choose correct shoes. In short, there are some mountain bike shoes which have been designed according to type of mountain bike racing and climate.
