How do you get started?

[liberty]

So, in mountain biking, you spend the majority of the time out of the saddle?

I talked my cousin into taking the class with me. We went for a little bitty ride tonight on the local MUT trail. She hasn't been on a bike in years, so she thought it prudent to practice. I did manage to find some off trails that were mainly gravel. Was wierd to sense the bike shifting over the gravel. I went down a grassy slope and shifted my weight behind the saddle without even thinking about it. We shall see.

Hope you gals don't mind if I pester you with questions. It is all very new and interesting. Not looking forward to falling, especially since I am not insured. But I have a good helmet!

[BikerJen]

Go to the clinic. It will be a nice, non-testosterone place to learn about mtb. I was fortunate enough to have understanding male friends when I first got into mtb. Then I took a "repair" class at my bike shop. BUT the best times I've had riding were with my Chicky friends. See if your local bike club(s) have any female only ride nights. I like my road bike, but I'm definitely a mtb rider at heart. Love it!

[Irulan]

So, in mountain biking, you spend the majority of the time out of the saddle?

depends on the trail.
flat, mellow, rolling terrain, no.
climbing, no unless it gets technical and or steep and or power bursts then yes
rock gardens, technical terrain, more yes.
descending, yes

[IntenseRide]

Go...Go...Go

You will learn things from more experienced riders that are important for newbies. Besides, I bet someone there will be able to help you with changing out some parts so the bike will fit you better.

[han-grrl]

Ok, so it seems we are all in agreement...

I teach at a beginner mtb clinic here, and its great to see the beginners progress. Our program offers rentals for those who don't have a proper bike...

Definitely get it fitted properly and looked at to make sure everything is functioning properly...

we cover bike fit at our clinics, but not everyone covers that...its worth asking...

have fun! (i hope you enjoy it!)

hannah

[emily_in_nc]

Liberty,

I agree with the others - go! I would LOVE to go to a women's MTB clinic. I started riding MTB last summer but am still very much an newbie, tho' I have a great bike - XS Titus Racer-X I bought off eBay that fits great! Wish I could find a clinic around these parts!

Let us know all about it!

Emily

[bike4ever]

Emily - Take a road trip and visit St. Louis - you can stay with my family. The clinic is actually run over two days with day two being riding all day.

[emily_in_nc]

Emily - Take a road trip and visit St. Louis - you can stay with my family. The clinic is actually run over two days with day two being riding all day.

Aww, you're sweet! With gas prices being what they are, though, I think I'll keep looking for a clinic closer to home...

Emily