How to Mountain Bike on a Single-Track Trail

Many mountain bikers consider single-track riding - riding on trails that are wide enough for just one biker at a time - to be the sport's highlight. Here's how it's done.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Bike Helmets
• Bike Suspension
• Bike Tools
• Mountain Bikes

1. Learn and understand any local rules governing use of the trail.

2. Ride in control at all times. When rounding a corner, slow down enough to be able to stop quickly if necessary.

3. Communicate with other trail users. Warn those that you pass if there are other riders behind you.

4. Yield the trail to hikers, horseback riders and other mountain bikers. If you're riding downhill and another rider is making her way uphill, step aside to allow the uphill rider to pass.

5. Watch out for wild critters - especially squirrels, birds, snakes, deer and, in certain parts of the country, bears - on the trail. Animals often use single-track paths as a convenient way to get around an otherwise thick forest.

6. Look ahead and focus on openings in the trail, not on the obstacles. Try not to look straight down at your front tire.

Tips & Warnings

• If you can't ride a section of trail, get off your bike and walk. Remember not to ride into the brush or off the trail to avoid dismounting.

• Mountain biking is a physically demanding sport that could result in serious injury. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.