Things You'll Need:
- Performance Mountain Bike Light system
- Water
- Small flashlight
- Repair kit
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Step 1
Purchase a quality mountain biking light system. Powerful light systems designed specifically for night mountain biking are key to riding at night. (See Resources below.) You'll want a system that is powerful enough to properly illuminate the trail so that you're able to effectively navigate. You shouldn't skimp by purchasing a flashlight or inexpensive bike light.
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Step 2
Determine a trail. Be sure to check closing times with the park system or appropriate authority. Many state and local parks close at dusk, and it's not advisable to ignore the rules. Less-regulated trail areas like the Bureau of Land Management, national parks and forest lands are good places to ride. Most national parks and forests do not restrict night use. If these options aren't available, check with parks that allow overnight camping.
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Step 3
Familiarize yourself with the trail. Ideally, you should have ridden the trail a number of times during the day, so that you're aware of potential hazards and obstacles that may be less visible at night. Preferably start night mountain biking at a local trail that you've ridden many times.
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Step 4
Attach your light system. Systems come with all mounting hardware and will attach to your handlebars.
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Step 5
Map out your route before going. Nighttime is not the time to get lost or try a new, unfamiliar segment of trail. Stick to a predesignated route. If needed, bring a map with you to make sure that you don't get lost or off-track.
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Step 6
Get out and ride. You'll find that night mountain biking is an exciting new experience. Proceed with caution, but have fun.
