Top 3 Things That Make a Great Mountain Biking Trek

So you've got all your gear, and most importantly, your mountain bike. Now you need a trail to test it all out. But what makes a mountain bike trek good? Read on to find out what to look for when you're on the search for a great Mountain biking trek!
Mountain biking treks can be found all over the world in a variety of terrains. Whether it may be a dense mountain side forest, a barren rocky landscape, or even a sandy desert, they all have common features to create an adrenaline rush for the mountain biker. These features form a checklist you can whip out before deciding to take on that mountain bike trail.

Top 3 Things That Make a Great Mountain Biking Trek

1. Berms, turns, jumps and more

The big difference between cycle challenges/similar forms of bike riding and mountain biking is that the first simply needs a plain road or path. What makes a mountain bike trek unique is it is designed to have obstacles and variation. Look out for the berms - corners that are cambered allowing for continued speed.

What is a trail without jumps? A good jump is one that allows you to gain enough momentum to make it, and don't forget enough space afterwards to slow down for the turns that follow. Other features such as table tops or bridges are not a must, but sure make for a varied mountain bike course.

2. Registered & Maintained

Illegal mountain bike treks that have not been registered or cleared with the land owner should be avoided for a very important reason. Trailbuilders that fail to do this normally also take other shortcuts - shortcuts on the fall line, proper design, and trail planning - all this can mean serious injuries for you. Also look out for maintenance such as properly closed old bike trails that have been covered with plants, rocks, or dirt. They should be inaccessible.

3. Go with the flow

Ultimately the most important feature the best mountain biking treks in the world have is flow. You should see smooth transitions. A bad mountain bike trail continuously catches you off guard, has fast paced sections directly followed by sharp or even blind turns that interrupt your flow.

All in all, if you look out for variety when it comes to turns, jumps, benches as well as picking the mountain biking treks that are legal, well maintained, and have great flow, you are sure to get the most out of mountain biking. Happy trail picking!