Mountain Biking Etiquette

I was asked to write about basic mountain biking etiquette since I’ve been riding for a while now. So here’s my list of basics.

1. Don’t be a jerk.

2. If you see someone broken down, offer to help. Lend your tools, tube or a Gu packet…well they can keep that.

3. Stop your bikes when equestrians are approaching. Pull over. Let them pass because horses are bigger than you and they get spooked easily.

4. Watch out for hikers. Don’t yell at them that you’re on their left. Get a small cowbell or jingle bell. The bells help forewarn them and it will also irritate your riding buddies.

5. Stay on the trails. Don’t go off and start making your own trails. That act could cause some land damage later on.

6. Don’t ride in the rain. Ruts created by your tires erode the trail system.

7. Pick up your trash. That means you don’t leave your busted tube, bar wrappers or water bottles on the ground. Take it with you.

Last but not least…

8. Have fun. No one likes a negative Nancy…you know the type, the kind that complains about the ride the whole time.