Page 45 - AMB Freelist

Summer is here and that means our bike parks are in full swing! There are few things better than loading your bike up
on a chairlift or shuttle trailer and being carted to the top of a mountain that would take you hours to climb under your own steam. Here are our top 5 dos and don’ts to ensure you get the most out of your next bike park trip.
Do Be prepared
Park riding is hard on your body, and
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your equipment. We strongly advise doing some preventative maintenance on your bike before heading to your favourite riding destination. Things like a completing a bolt check, replacing your tubelss sealant, checking your suspension settings and even throwing on a fresh set of tyres will ensure that you will minimise the possibility of a mechanical that would leave you kicking rocks outside the local workshop while all your friends lap the mountain.
Going along with that, it’s always a good idea to don as much protective equipment as is comfortable. Without the need to pedal up the hill, wearing light weight breathable kit is not as important... throw on a full-face helmet and some body armour! It’s all about ensuring you get the most amount of time on the hill as possible and that you and your bike get back home in one piece.
Do Listen to the staff
Bike park staff are there to help you.
Whether that be on how to load the shuttle correctly, which trails are in the best condition, areas to avoid due to weather or even which trails they personally recommend, their job is to ensure you get the most out of your park riding experience. Don’t be afraid to ask for any tips and tricks – the staff know the park better than anyone else.
Do Make some new friends
Bike parks are full of people just like
you – mountain bikers! Take the opportunity to have a chat, whether that is in the lift line, on the chairlift or trail side while you try and shake out some arm pump. Everyone is there because they want to ride and it’s a great place to make some new riding buddies!
Do Challenge yourself
Most bike parks have a myriad of trails,
from mild to wild. Take the opportunity to check out a trail that may be a little above your pay grade. Take your time, walk some features, watch other riders as they ride the trail. You will be surprised at how capable you are and what you can get down if you take some time and approach things correctly... just be sure you aren’t alone when trying something new.
Even better, sign up for a coaching lesson. Most bike parks have accredited coaches on staff and there isn’t a more appropriate place or time to work on your technique than with the help from a qualified professional. They’ll have you hitting the A-lines in no time.
Do Update your contacts
It’s a good idea to keep your phone on
you, and ensure you have the phone number for mountain patrol or similar saved in your contacts list. Things don’t always go to plan, so whether you get lost going off piste or come across someone who’s had a uuuugey it’s best to be able to call for backup if the situation arises.
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the dos and don'ts of riding park
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