If
you are getting bored of the usual road riding trips, why not try
something new and go on an off-road adventure? Off-road riding is a
different type of monster, a trip in which your riding skills and
patience will get tested. It is more physically demanding and will
put your upper body strength to the test. You will need to employ
more than your basic road riding skills because you will be going
through rougher, tougher grounds at lower speeds. It requires more
balance and momentum, which translates to a high adrenalin riding
experience.
Before
venturing off to your off-road adventure, you need to outfit yourself
with additional equipment. What you use for normal road riding may
not be enough for off-road trips. Here are some of the equipment you
will need:
Helmet
A
different type of helmet is required for safe off-road riding.
Off-road helmets have a different shape and most of them do not have
visors. Make sure it fits your head perfectly and will not bounce off
while you navigate those bumpy, rocky terrains. It’s best to buy a
new one if you can afford it and make sure it adheres to United
Nations Standard ECE 22.05 or British Standard BS6658. Also, you need
to get a set of goggles to go with your helmet to make sure that your
eyes will be protected from mud.
Boots
Needless
to say, off-road boots are tougher than their road riding
counterpart. They are made of more rigid material which will come in
handy as you ride over the rougher terrain. Make sure to break them
in first before going on a long off-road ride.
Gloves
Gloves
made of textile with reinforced knuckles in plastic or Kevlar
material are the best type for off road riding. This provides enough
protection for your fingers plus the material will dry faster than
leather gloves. You don’t want to ride around feeling uncomfortable
in damp gloves.
Armor
Your
ribs and internal organs need to be protected during your off-road
adventure, especially if you plan to do enduro or motocross racing.
At the very least, invest in a set of basic armor and kidney belt to
give you ample protection from possible bruises. Include padded pants
and loose sports shirts in the set.
Bike
locks
Just
because you are riding in the quiet trails does not mean no one will
take an unhealthy interest in your bike. Off-road bikes are lighter,
making them easier to steal.
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