Why You Do Not Have To Follow Established Bike Trails

Posted on: 22 May 2018

Biking and mountain biking are both great forms of exercise, especially when you can explore someplace you have never been before. If you are just starting out with this sport, you are inclined to follow established bike trails wherever you find them. However, as you become a more experienced bike rider, you do not have to follow established trails. Here is why.

Everyone Forges Their Own Trails 

Established bike trails exist for those who do not want to stray from a path. These trails were established by other bike riders, or by park rangers. As you go along on established trails, you will see the grass flattened here and there where other bike riders went off the paths and into the woods, up and down rocky terrain, and even into wet, muddy areas. These riders wanted a challenge, or they are looking for an adventure. They are more experienced and, therefore, they are not too worried about getting lost or ending up someplace new to them.

It Is Expected That Bike Riders Will Forge New Trails

New trails off of established ones are obvious. There is no grass on these trails, and there are ruts where bike wheels rolled through repeatedly. With the exception of private property laying close to established trails, it is assumed and expected that bike riders will veer off and forge new trails.

Sometimes Trail Detours Are Necessary

Established trails often become flooded, or impassable when a tree falls in the way. Sometimes a hibernating bear has emerged and claimed part of the bike trail as his/her territory. Whatever the reason, trail detours become necessary. When there are no established detours, bike riders make their own.

Shortcuts Back to the Road 

Not all bike trails are made convenient. Some are just too long when they do not need to be. Intermediate and advanced bike riders often find ways to make a trail shorter by establishing shortcuts. Then everyone can take these shortcuts when they would much rather ride a shorter distance. Often you will find shortcuts back to major roads, which helps if you get a little turned around on the trails.

Training to Compete in Cross-Country Bike Rides

Once you are an accomplished "off-roader" bike rider, you may want to enter a few bike riding competitions. To do that, you will need to train. To train, you have to go off the established bike trails to get more experience in handling unusual trail conditions.

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