October is a perfect month for Downhill. The heat of summer is now a memory and it is not yet time for snow: the best time to ride a mountain bike and tackle trails, descents and rough routes on the slopes of the mountains.
Far from simple, Downhill is considered one of the most adrenaline-pumping and hectic outdoor sports and, before you start, it is a good idea to heed some useful precautions.
Safety is the number one requirement for both beginners and experts. In particular, wearing protections, knowing the routes and adopting a correct posture can really make a difference when riding.
PROTECTION AND EQUIPMENT
Wearing the right sportswear is very important when practicing Downhill: breathable and lightweight garments that do not hinder body movements are to be preferred. In addition to the correct clothing, protection is really essential: this means a full-face helmet, eye mask, back, elbow and knee protectors and suitable shoes.
ROUTES AND SIGNAGE
Knowing the routes and signage is very important when deciding which trail to take. Like the ski slopes, the Downhill trails are also divided by level of difficulty according to colours: from green – the simplest – to yellow and red – intermediate and difficult – to black, the most complex.
Learning to recognise the texture of the ground is also important: the presence of rock, soil, roots, stones, jumps and differences in altitude influences the degree of difficulty of a trail and determines how it will be tackled.
CORRECT POSTURE
Correct posture is the ally of a good descent, it guarantees a complete view of the route, anticipating any obstacles to be jumped or circumvented.
The ideal posture of the rider is standing on the pedals while looking forward, body in the centre, elbows open wide, heels pointing downwards and legs slightly bent.
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