Riders: Your Guide to Mountain Biking, Gear and Training

When talking about riders, people who ride bicycles for sport, recreation or transport, the community is all about hitting trails, mastering skills and staying safe. Mountain biking, off‑road cycling that tests balance, endurance and technical ability sits at the heart of many riders’ passions. To get the most out of every ride, you also need the right cycling gear, helmets, shoes, tires and accessories designed for rugged terrain. Together, these elements shape how riders experience a trail, how they train, and even how they handle unexpected bike switches during a race. Riders require proper gear to stay safe, mountain biking offers diverse terrain challenges, and training routines boost performance – these three ideas form the core of our collection.

What you’ll find in this collection

We cover a wide range of topics that matter to anyone who identifies as a rider. First, there are practical guides on choosing the right bike and gear, from budget‑friendly options to high‑end setups that let you tackle steep descents. Then, we dive into skill‑building pieces that explain how daily riding—whether on a trail or a city street—can transform fitness and confidence. If you’re curious about race‑day logistics, we detail the rules around bike switching, a tactic allowed in events like the Tour de France, and how it can affect strategy and timing. Finally, we address common questions such as licensing for cyclists in the USA, the myths about cycling being a sport only for the wealthy, and how tools like the Garmin 235 can track your progress. Each article links back to the central idea that riders are always looking for ways to improve their ride, stay safe, and enjoy the community.

By the end of this page you’ll have a clear sense of how the different pieces fit together: gear choices support mountain biking performance, training routines enhance endurance, and knowledge of race rules empowers smarter decisions on the trail. Below, the posts are organized to give you quick access to the advice, stories and data you need to level up your riding experience. Browse the collection and pick the pieces that match your current goals—whether you’re gearing up for a local trail, prepping for a race, or just want to understand the basics of bike maintenance and safety.

Cedric Beaumont

How long do Tour de France riders warm down for?

After a grueling day on the Tour de France, riders don't just hop off their bikes and head for a nap. They engage in a cool down session that typically lasts between 10 to 20 minutes. This time is crucial for the body to gradually return to its normal state and helps reduce muscle stiffness. During this period, cyclists usually keep pedaling at a slower pace, focus on their breathing, and start their hydration and nutrition recovery. It's a vital part of their routine to maintain peak performance throughout the race.