Laka’s home town of Bristol plays host to a booming cycling community. Whether you love road, gravel, mountain bikes, or just riding to the pub, it’s a great place to get on two wheels.
For the off-road cyclists, there’s a wonderful network of free-to-use, all-weather mountain bike trails that anyone can enjoy, from beginners to experts. With trails at Ashton Court, Leigh Woods, Fifty Acre Wood and more there’s something for every rider.
Our friends at Ride Bristol, the charity that maintains the trails, have crowd-sourced some tips to help you have more fun on your mountain bike (whether you’re riding in Bristol, or further afield!)Here are 12 essential mountain biking tips to help you make the most of your trail rides, especially if you’re riding in Bristol.
First things first, make sure your bike, kit and accessories are covered against all the unexpected incidents that can ruin a ride (think theft, damage and crashes). Check out Laka’s award-winning bike insurance here for ultimate peace of mind when you’re riding those MTB trails.
1. Before You Go, Get To Know
Riding routes that suit your current level will help guarantee you have the best time, build confidence and don’t feel overwhelmed. Do some research online and ask the community before you ride to get an idea of what’s coming up.
Most purpose-built trails have a website that will explain what to expect, including how long they’ll take to complete and how technically demanding they are. Many also have a difficulty rating, similar to skiing, to help you know what you’re in for. Blue trails are for less experienced riders, black trails are for the experts!
In Bristol, for example, start with beginner-friendly loops like the Nova Trail at Ashton Court before moving on to more challenging spots like Fifty Acre or Leigh Woods. You can also plan your route with Komoot (get a Region Bundle of your choice worth £8.99 for free on Laka Perks)!
2. Check your bike before you ride
A quick ‘M-check’ of your bike’s condition can save you from mid-ride breakdowns or even crashes. Start at the rear wheel, up to the saddle, down to the pedals/chain, up to the handlebars, and finishing at the front wheel. Make sure everything is tight, nothing’s rubbing, and it’s all safe and secure.
If you’re unsure, don’t be afraid to ask your local bike shop to give your bike a quick once-over. They’re the experts!
3. Set your tyre pressure right
Just like your car, tyre pressure can make a huge difference to your ride. Around 25–30 PSI is a good starting point for beginners, but tweak it to suit your riding style and weight. Softer tyres offer more grip, harder ones roll faster. Find the balance that feels best, it really does make a difference.
Again, if you’re unsure, give your local bike shop a shout.
5. Build skills gradually (and consider coaching)
It’s totally OK not to be an expert on your first ride, or ever in fact. Just have fun with it!
Don’t feel pressured to hit every jump or ride every feature; enjoy the ride and progress at a rate you enjoy. That’s the most important thing.
Start by getting used to the trails and aim to build comfort and have fun. Just getting around the whole trail with a smile on your face is a great goal.
If you want a boost, a coaching session is a brilliant way to learn safely, refine technique, and gain confidence faster. There are also heaps of great resources on Youtube if you need some quick tips.
Here in Bristol, there are some excellent Mountain Bike coaches, including Pedal Progression at Ashton Court. They’re experts in helping beginners get better and have more fun.
6. Ride with others
Bristol has an amazing MTB community, and riding with others makes the whole experience way more fun. You’ll pick up tips and techniques just by watching, and group rides are always a great motivator.
Here in Bristol, Ride Bristol hosts a Women’s Ride on the first Saturday of every month, and an all-welcome Ride Out on the third Thursday of every month.
8. Pack the essentials
The more comfortable you are, the more likely you are to have a good time. Pack some basics such as water, a snack, a spare inner tube, a pump and a multi-tool.
Most people use a small backpack or hip-pack to carry gear, which is more comfortable than stuffing their pockets full of gear. Many bikes can also be fitted with a bottle cage to keep your water close at hand.
9. Check the weather
Riding in the wet can be great fun, but it’s not everyone’s bag. Check the weather before you go and consider your kit for what you see.
Rain coming? Chuck a lightweight waterproof jacket in your pack. High temperatures ahoy? Sun cream and an extra water bottle can help. When it gets cold, many riders pack warmer gloves, waterproof socks, an insulated baselayer and a neck-buff.
Being prepared keeps the ride comfortable and fun, but don’t worry too much about the weather, just get out there and get stuck in.
10. Stay fuelled and hydrated
Even short rides take energy. Pack snacks and water to keep you going, especially if you’re stringing together longer laps at Ashton Court or heading out for a spin through Leigh Woods.
No need for high-tech, space-age energy food you’ll be fine with water and a cereal bar. Sip water as you go, and snack before you feel hungry. And of course, a coffee and a slice of cake on the way round is never a bad idea!
11. But Don’t Worry About Kit
The best bike is the one you’ve got. Don’t feel like you need the latest carbon frame, fancy suspension or high-tech clothing to enjoy riding.
You can ride whatever clothing you’ve got. Shorts and a T-shirt are fine. Grab your gym kit and the jacket you walk the dog in. It’s all good.
All that said, don’t skrimp on a decent helmet; they’re worth their weight in gold!
12. Keep it fun
Did we mention fun yet?!
Mountain biking should always put a smile on your face. If you’re not enjoying it, switch it up, take a break, or just slow down. Fun is what keeps us all coming back for more. Don’t take it too seriously, we’re just riding around in circles in the woods!
Hopefully, these tips can help you get out and enjoy your first mountain bike trail ride.
If you’re in Bristol and would like to join in the fun, why not give Ride Bristol a shout? You can learn more about them on their website here and follow them on Instagram here.
They host a women’s ride on the first Saturday of every month and an all-welcome ride on the third Thursday of every month.
They’re also on the lookout for volunteers to join them to help maintain the trails and keep Bristol’s MTB scene going, you can contact them on their website to get involved.