Mountain bike parkour is a sport that combines mountain biking and parkour elements. It involves navigating through rugged terrains, steep declines and muddy trails, which requires a lot of agility and skill.

You’ll be using your mountain bike to overcome obstacles and traverse challenging terrain. The sport is relatively young, but it has grown in popularity over the past few years. Competitions and events are held all around the world.

History of Mountain Bike Parkour

Mountain bike parkour dates back to the early 2000s when riders began experimenting in freeriding, a style of riding mountain bikes that involved riding over obstacles and through rough terrain. In 2002, in Utah, USA the first Red Bull Rampage was held, marking the emergence as a recognized sport.

The popularity of YouTube videos, as well as social media, has fueled the growth of mountain biking parkour. These videos have helped to showcase riders’ talent and creativity around the world. The sport is now popular not only among professionals, but also with laypeople who love the thrill of riding outdoors.

Mountain Bike Parkour Gear and Equipment

Mountain bike parkour requires the proper equipment and gear. Here are some essential items that you’ll require:

1. Helmets: Helmets are a must, as they can protect your head in the event of a fall.
2. Shoes: Avoid injuries to the ankles and feet by choosing shoes with good ankle protection and good grip.
3. Protective Gear: Knee, elbow and chest protectors can cushion falls and help prevent scrapes and bruising.
4. Hydration System. You’ll be riding for a long time, so staying hydrated is important. Stay hydrated with a hydration system, such as a water backpack or hydration bottle.
5. Wearing goggles can protect your eyes from dust, debris and insects. Wearing goggles will protect your eyes from flying debris, insects, and dust.

Techniques for Mountain Bike Parkour

Mountain bike parkour is a combination of mountain-biking skills and parkour. Here are some of the techniques you will need to master in order to become a professional rider:

1. Jumping: The ability of mountain bike parkour to jump over obstacles, is essential. You’ll have to learn how to time your jumps, tuck in your knees and land safely.
2. Manual: To do a manual, you balance on the rear wheel while shifting your weight to the front. This technique is important as it allows you to clear obstacles with ease.
3. Bunny Hop – A bunny jump is a bicycle trick where you lift your front and back wheel simultaneously. This technique is crucial for clearing gaps and jumping.
4. Drop-offs: A drop off involves riding over the edge of a rock ledge or hill. You will need to approach the drop-off at the right speed and with the correct angle to avoid a nasty crash.

Famous Riders of Mountain Bike Parkour

Over the years, mountain bike parkour has produced many big-name riders. Here are some of history’s most famous riders:

• Danny MacAskill is a Scottish rider who became famous through his YouTube videos. Danny has been pushing boundaries in mountain bike parkour since over a decade.
• Martyn Ashton is a highly creative and skilled rider best known for the ‘Road Bike Party” series of videos.
• Ali Clarkson Ali Clarkson, a highly skilled rider who is known for his technical and precision ability.

Mountain Bike Parkour: Tips for Beginners

Here are some tips for those who want to start mountain biking parkour:

1. Start Slowly: Do not rush into anything. Start small and gradually progress to more difficult terrain.
2. Find a mentor: A mentor will help you learn and can give you tips to become a more proficient rider.
3. Take Lessons. Mountain bike parkour is a dangerous sport. Taking lessons from a professional can help you learn how to do it safely and avoid serious injuries.
4. Invest in high-quality equipment and gear. This will not only increase your safety, but also make you ride more efficiently.

Conclusion

Mountain bike parkour can be a thrilling and challenging sport. It requires a lot of skill and courage. Anyone can conquer challenging terrain and overcome obstacles with the right equipment, techniques and guidance. Remember to always be safe, whether you’re an experienced rider or just getting started. Happy riding!