Our thoughts turn to winter mountain biking as autumn draws to a close and all those multicolored leaves that social media posts have waxed lyrical about settle across the trails, creating a beautiful–but treacherous–ride. Because mountain bikers are such a dedicated bunch, we won’t be fazed by a little extra moisture in the air!

advertisement

No matter how eager you are to hit the trail, consider which trails in your area will hold up to riding in wet weather if you want to avoid the wrath of your local trail builders. You may not be able to ride your local trails after rain or during rain. Clay and pure mud, for example, absorb water, becoming sloppy and filled with puddles. Once the trail is dry, deep ruts are left behind by the bikes. Often riders will widen trails by trying to avoid deep puddles until they become just another boggy jeep track. Others can take it, usually those with a loam- or rock-based soil. If you’re riding on Slickrock, don’t chance it when it’s raining. Slickrock is nice and grippy when it’s dry, but when it gets wet, it turns into its very name. Very slick and very dangerous rock. If you are unsure of the trail etiquette, speak to your local mountain bike group or forestry management team.

To ensure your ride is enjoyable even when it’s raining, follow the following steps.

1. Invest in quality waterproof gears.

Buy a jacket with good water resistance and windproofing property that is also breathable. Likewise, a pair of waterproof shorts, shoes, and gloves will improve your comfort levels pedaling in the rain.

2. Cross-country riding is more preferable than tracks.

A cross-country ride will let you stay on the bike and get you pedaling that can keep your body temperature up and your attention focused on your route direction rather than the weather.

3. Consider the soil type in the trail.

It is best to ride in rock- or slate-based areas rather than clay. Aside from being more predictable surfaces to ride on generally, they don’t get as eroded as the clay surface.

4. Keep your ride brief.

It is not a good idea to set a long-distance bike record on a rainy day or explore off the beaten path. Choose instead a familiar route you can negotiate in a reasonable amount of time.

5. Woodland is the better route.

Mountain biking in wet weather is better done in a dense sheltered forest or woodland that can act as your umbrella and windshield. Save the open moorland and captivating mountain tops on a clear day when you can appreciate the view.

advertisement

6. Prepare your bike for the rainy weather.

Fit your bike with a front and rear mudguard that can prevent much of the mud from flying up at you and the bike parts. Also, choose a set of tires for slippy conditions. You can run them at lower air pressure for an increased grip.

7. Bring clothes to change into.

If you will take a long time riding in the rain, it is advisable to pack an extra base layer to change into at the halfway point and a whole change of clothes, which can wait for you back at the car.

8. Finally, enjoy the rainy day ride.

Accept the fact that your wet weather bike ride will get you soaked and filthy. Embracing the situation will let you enjoy the moment and make your whole mountain biking experience fun.

advertisement