Cross country mountain biking is cross country at its finest. Where free riders and downhill bikers use four wheel bikes and ski lifts to get them to their destination, cross country bikers get to the top of the mountain by the ride. Though free riding is very popular, the life vein of the sport has always been cross country biking.
Just as cross country riders are a different breed, the bikes they ride are as well. The cross country bike is completely different in many ways from other types of mountain riding bikes. The premise for cross country riders is speed. Everything about their bikes revolve with the idea of making the bikes faster and faster.
Bikes used in cross country mountain biking can be fully rigid frame, hardtails, or even full suspension frames. Through the years, the cross over to full suspension has become very popular.
From Innovative Cycle Lights to GPS Computers - Introducing the Best Cycling Gadgets
Whether it's cycle lights that are bright enough to make night riding a joy, or smartphone apps that record every detail of your ride, a variety of technical products can be used to improve your cycling experience. Here are five innovations that will spice up your cycling:
Your Smart Phone
The GPS technology in most smartphones can be great for cyclists. Endomondo is an excellent fitness app that can monitor your routes, speeds and performances. It's especially useful if you're time trialling, as you can set it to compare your current ride against your personal best in real time. Another great app is Strava Cycling. This app can help you discover and share the best rides and routes in your area with the wider community. As a handy reference when you need to make some running repairs, it's hard to beat Bike Doctor 2. This invaluable app has solutions to all the common problems you're likely to face.
A Dedicated Bike Computer
Smart phone apps can only go so far at present. For a real technical analysis of your ride, a bike computer is essential. They can measure all kinds of statistics, such as your average power output and cadence rates. These figures are incredibly useful for improving your performance and focussing your training towards tangible results.
Dedicated Cycling Shoes
You'll be amazed at how much difference some quality shoes can make. High-tech varieties are even available that can be warmed in the oven to help them mould perfectly to your feet. This ensures minimal energy is wasted while you're in the saddle.
A Head Camera
Filming your rides can be a great way to relive enjoyable days out, or create your own stunt film. These cameras are so light you won't notice any difference when you're riding with one attached.
Powerful Bike Lights
If you want to shake up your bike rides, going out at night is one of the best ways to do so. Especially enjoyable if you're a mountain biker, attaching some powerful lights will make negotiating even the most mundane trails feel fresh and exciting. With a limited field of vision, riding in pitch black with only your lights for company will really test your riding skills.
Buying Cycle Lights and Accessories
Choosing high quality lights and accessories will ensure your items stand the test of time. It's especially important to get high quality cycle lights, as losing power in the middle of nowhere could cause problems if riding at night.
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