As the weather warms and the trails call, more and more outdoor enthusiasts are trying their hand at mountain biking, a sport that offers not only exhilarating thrills but also an opportunity to forge connections with nature. Owner and operator of Sacred Ride in Jindabyne, Nic Davoli, a mountain biking expert, suggests that for those new to the sport, a well-planned start can make all the difference. “Renting gear for your first experience and taking a lesson is essential,” Nic said. “Lessons provide invaluable insights that can accelerate your progress while preventing the formation of bad habits.” For anyone considering mountain biking this season, Nic’s expert advice enables beginners to navigate the often-intimidating world of trail riding. Starting on appropriate beginner trails, he encourages newcomers to concentrate on mastering basic skills like body positioning, braking, and maintaining focus on their intended path. “The mountain bike community is welcoming, and riding with others can significantly enhance your learning experience. Consistency is key,” Nic said. Before hitting the trails, investing in essential equipment will enable the best and safest experience. Nic said newcomers should prioritise a well-fitting helmet, comfortable athletic shoes - preferably bike-specific for maximum grip - sunglasses, a hydration system, and gloves. “While protective gear such as knee and elbow pads might seem optional, they will definitely save you a lot of regret,” Nic said. "Many people only purchase protective gear after their first injury, which can be a costly mistake.” As riders become more experienced, Nic suggests gradually acquiring additional gear, including padded shorts, a multi-tool, a pump, and a tyre repair kit. “Proper preparation for rides is vital,” he said. “I advise that riders assess their route’s distance, terrain, and weather conditions, and ensuring you have a well-maintained bike is essential. “I recommend performing a pre-ride check to ensure everything is in working order before hitting the tracks.” Once on the trail, Nic encourages beginners to start with green-rated (easy) paths. “Building confidence and skills is critical before tackling more challenging routes,” he said. Riders should practise techniques like cornering and climbing while remaining vigilant for obstacles. “Don’t hesitate to walk your bike through sections that feel daunting; safety should always come first; mountain biking is as much about connection as it is about skill. “It’s important to focus on enjoying the ride and connecting with nature.” Nic advises beginners to be patient with their progress and to take breaks when needed. After each ride, maintaining the bike is also crucial. “Cleaning and lubricating your bike after every adventure ensures it remains in top shape for future rides,” Nic said. There is growing popularity of mountain biking shows from across the globe and it is becoming a sport more and more people gravitate towards. From the rush of navigating challenging terrain to achieving physical fitness and the strong sense of community it fosters, this sport appeals to a wide range of individuals. As the summer season approaches, exciting developments are on the horizon for mountain biking in the region. “New tracks are planned for Thredbo and Jindabyne, with significant work underway around Cooma,” Nic said. “These projects promise to improve the local riding experience, though many new trails will not be completed until later seasons.” For those seeking guidance, Nic stresses the importance of connecting with local bike shops. “If you’re unsure about anything, remember that mountain biking is new to you, and your local bike shop is always a great resource for advice, there are no stupid questions, so don’t hesitate to ask,” Nic said. “Lessons aren’t just for beginners; you’ll continually be looking to step up your skills, there are many examples of local people who got into the sport and ended up making a living from it or achieving extraordinary high-level results.” Nic said support your local dedicated bike shop; they are the heart of your MTB experience. “They are involved in supporting local events, track maintenance, mountain bike clubs, and youth access to the sport, among other things. “They need your support just as much as you need them for a quick, last-minute repair - something you won’t find online. “And remember that those few extra dollars spent locally stay local and help your local shop stay in business. Too many shops that were successful for a very long time have disappeared in recent years due to a lack of support from locals buying online.” For more information on everything that Sacred Ride has to offer visit www.shop.sacredride.com.au or visit the experts in store located at 1/3A Gippsland Street, Jindabyne.
