How to get started/learn to MTB?

[katherine]

Are you in Tucson? Tucson has some great bike shops, you might check with them for beginner rides.

[Irulan]

There are some great getting started videos on youtube ( try Free Ride Fundamentals, the pricipals are the same for any kind of mountain biking)
Books : Mastering MTB Skills by Lopes/McCormack and the one by Ned Overend

for starters.

[Catrin]

I second the recommendation to find a clinic if at all possible. If it is in your budget you can also find a certified coach to give you a one-on-one session. I did this last year after I attended a clinic and found it quite helpful. I hope to do the same later this season, but time will tell.

Welcome to TE!

[ny biker]

I'm partial to this video:

http://wildflowermtb.com/

and not just because I'm in it. It has some good skill drills.

[Desert Tortoise]

Where about in So. AZ? In the Tucson area there are lots of good instructors and clubs.

Have you ever ridden in desert trails? If you are not familiar with riding on desert trails, I suggest you first go out with someone who is experienced. It's not to scare you, just familiarize yourself with the lanscape.

[ehm]

Many thanks to everyone for the variety of suggestion! To those of you who wondered where in SA, I am in Tucson. Phoenix is about 2 hours away. I'll try to research some of the leads. If anyone has further info to add given that I live in Tucson, feel free to share.

I'm probably going to try to find a workshop clinic or maybe do private lessons or both if I can find someone local. The workshop/clinics I'm willing to travel for. The other resources such as videos/books are also good but I'm going to get into those after I at least have one in person lesson/experience in some kind of form.

Desert Tortoise-no I have not ridden desert trails. I just know I'll need a hydration though. I heard about Bunny loop at Fantasy Island but I'm not comfortable to go by myself.

[Irulan]

I second heading over to the MTBR regional forum. That's the best way I know of to key into the local scene anywhere.

[katherine]

Yea! Fantasy Island! It's a ridiculous amount of fun. Also, check this out http://www.tucsonmtb.com/modules.php...iewtopic&t=397 It's a Saturday girl's ride. Enjoy!