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The growing sport of mountain
biking is relatively new, and differs from regular bicycling in several ways: 1. Mountain bikes are smaller, with a
stronger frame, a more upright handlebar, a wider range of gears, a suspension system for the wheels, and tires that are knobby,
wider, have a higher profile, and are more durable. 2. Generally, mountain biking is done off-road on rugged trails
or over rugged terrain. 3. Mountain biking requires a greater degree of skill than just riding a normal bicycle down a city
sidewalk, requiring greater mastery in cornering, jumping, balance, and trail reading.
Equipment - Mountain bikers share many of the same trails as hikers, and in the Panhandle of Nebraska,
equestrians also share many of these trails. While some of the gear used by mountain bikers is different that that of
hikers, much is similar. Both often used backpacks. Both need water, maps, a compass, sunscreen, insect repellent,
rain gear, a "space" blanket, food, first aid kits, and more. Most mountain bikers will wear a helmet, and
many wear other protective gear as well. A careful biker will also pack an air pump, extra tubes, a patch kit, a chain
tool, and other tools to make repairs along the way. These are important, because bikers can move faster than hikers,
thus covering much greater distances. A breakdown, many miles out on a trail, could mean a very long walk back.
Hazards - Equipment breakdowns are not the only problems bikers
may encounter. Accidents in the rugged terrain do occur occasionally. Although quite rare, unfriendly wildlife
and rattlesnakes can be another risk. Insects can be annoying, and in the case of ticks or mosqitoes carrying disease,
they can be hazardous. Inclement weather is another danger, especially if it produces floods, hail, or lightning.
Sunburn and dehydration are always perils in hot weather, and if a biker is out in cold weather, frostbite and hyposthermia
are risks. Biking solo may be fun, but it can also be a gamble. Sustaining a serious injury in a remote area,
could be life-threatening. A cell phone may help, if one is conscious to use it. But, cell phones do not work
in all remote areas. So, biking in pairs or groups is normally safer.
Types
of Mountain Biking in The Panhandle - While there are a variety of mountain biking categories, most of the opportunities in
Nebraska's Panhandle would fall into the cross country category. There are some freeriders in rugged areas, and
there are some urban mountain bikers in towns.
Caring
For Our Trails - In some parts of the country, mountain bikers have faced opposition, due to ecological concerns. Advocacy
groups have formed to organize bikers and supporters to educate new bikers, land owners, and others on safe and responsible
use of trails. The International Mountain Biking Association has established Rules of the Trail. And, they promote trail
work days to properly develop new trails, remove storm-downed trees, and do regular trail maintenance.
While mountain bikes do not damage trails like ATV's, or even horses,
they can do some damage, if not used properly. Riding before a trail has had time to dry properly is irresponsible and
damaging. Bikers need to observe the same concerns for the environment that hikers do, especially in regards to starting
fires. Packing trash and waste out is another important responsibility.
Resources To Learn More - This is just a small summary of the growing sport of mountain biking.
You can learn much more, by visiting the IMBA website, located at: www.imba.com
If you are planning to do any mountain biking in Dawes or Sioux counties, your best source of information, advice, equipment,
and repairs is Herb Petersen, at the Mountain Mania Bicycle Shop, 361 Main Street, in Chadron. Herb is a walking encylcopedia
of information and practical advice on mountain biking and area trails, having been instrumental in setting up many trails,
and creating area trail maps. You can reach Herb by phone at: (308) 432-3653, or toll-free at 1-800-257-3653.
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