Gravel biking provides a delightful combination of adventure and unearthing of natural beauty, leading riders away from the monotony of usual routes and onto diverse hilly terrains. However, navigating unexplored trails and rugged surfaces carries its inherent perils says Steven Rindner. This is why, it becomes imperative for gravel bikers to prioritize their safety in the course of gravel biking to ensure a smooth and gratifying experience. Here is a complete guide featuring the most essential pointers to help riders stay safe during their biking escapades.
- Get Fitted with Needed Safety Gear
When it comes to gravel biking, having safety gear is considered the first line of defense against injuries. Bikers should consider protecting their heads with property-fitted helmets, ensuring the protection of their head in the event of collisions or falls. It is also advised to wear gloves to protect the hands from possible abrasions and also enhance grip. Getting fitted with padded shorts is a smart choice for its added comfort on long rides and avoiding chafing. Invest in elbow and knee pads for enhanced protection, specifically while riding technical or challenging terrains.
- Get Geared for Mechanical Issues
Mechanical issues may arise unexpectedly, particularly while riding on rough surfaces. Therefore, it makes sense to carry a tool kit containing vital things such as multi-tools, spare tubes, a pump, and tire levers. Knowing the basics of troubleshooting small fixing, like adjusting brakes, or flat tires is also essential. Before every ride, never forget to conduct a thorough inspection of the uprightness of the vulnerable parts like tires, brakes, etc., ensuring they are in proper functioning condition.
- Plan the Route and Inform Others
It is also recommended to plan the route beforehand as it helps gain a thorough insight into the terrains and potential risks and challenges. Ensure to carry a GPS or even the trail’s map or cycling apps to plan the route of biking and get familiarized with the key landmarks. It is also sensible to inform someone dependable about the proposed route and expected return time. This way, in case the rider comes across any major issue or gets lost, others will know where to hunt for him.
- Check Weather Conditions
The safety of gravel biking can be affected greatly by weather conditions. Before initiating the ride, it is a smart option to verify the weather forecast and accordingly get prepared for possible changes. For instance, while rain can make terrines slippery and escalate the likelihood of falls, extreme heat can cause dehydration or heat fatigue. Dressing suitably for the weather such as carrying waterproof jackets or added layers is essential as per necessity.
- Ride Within Skill Level
Often, gravel biking involves traversing through technical terrains and varied challenges. As Steven Rindner suggests, adventure enthusiasts should not go beyond their skill level. They should focus on building skill levels gradually while building self-confidence and abilities. Overrating personal skills can potentially lead to minor injuries or even life-threatening accidents.
- Stay Hydrated
Maintaining energy levels throughout the ride and after the workout requires riders to stay well-hydrated. Make sure to bring adequate water and energy bars, snacks, etc to retain the energy level intact specifically on long rides. Dehydration or fatigue can harm one’s reaction times, impairing swift decision-making abilities and increasing the vulnerability of accidents.
Last but not least, adopting proper techniques of riding is essential to stay safe and avoid injury. Depending on the type of terrain, make sure to grip the handlebars, shift body postures, and navigate gradually to lessen the risk of losing grip and control.
