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"Bicycling
Magazine's
Mountain Biking Skills"
[OCT. 4, 2000] “Bicycling
Magazine’s Mountain Biking Skills.”
Ed Pavelka, editor, Rodale, 2000, 117 pages.
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One
of today’s most popular outdoor activities is off-road cycling.
More commonly known as off-road riding or mountain biking,
off-road cycling has become an exciting and challenging sport for
riders of all ages. In the book "Bicycling Magazine’s
Mountain Biking Skills," editor Ed Pavelka explains the tips,
tactics and techniques a rider needs to master any kind of
terrain.
According
to Pavelka, those who are new to off-road cycling will find in the
book the kind of advice they need: "clear and encouraging
explanations of all the basic skills, plus many key intermediate
techniques." These explanations come from an assembly of
accomplished riders that include world champion Ned Overend and
Olympic medalist Susan DeMattei. Throughout the book they and
other experts share their knowledge in presenting a complete
learning experience in off-road cycling.
The
book is divided into three parts: "Beginner Classes,"
"Making The Grade" and "Extracurricular
Activities."
"Beginner
Classes" provides an overview of the sport and contains
cycling terminology, techniques and safety. An overview of the
bicycle and its different features is also included. Sections such
as "Perfect Your Pedaling," "Speed Is What You
Need" and "Slippery Surfaces" instruct the rider on
the safety of cycling and help build the beginner’s confidence.
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In
"Making The Grade" the reader can learn some of the more
difficult moves and techniques that make off-road cycling so
enjoyable. Tricks such as bunny-hopping, tripod turns and
uphill/downhill skills are described. Once again, safety is
emphasized in this section, specifically in "Ride A Narrow
Trail" and "Crash And Learn."
The
final section, "Extracurricular Activities," is designed
for those readers who are ready for competition and racing. One of
the most interesting sections is "Dual School," a spirited
endorsement of the dual suspension bicycles. A dual suspension bike,
or "dualie," contains front and rear suspension, while the
more common "hardtail" bike uses a suspension fork.
According to Ned Overend, his experiences with the dualie have led
him to use it for recreational as well as competitive riding.
Overend discusses several important tips for effective and enjoyable
riding on a dualie, including pedaling in circles (not squares),
adjusting the dual suspension system and ratcheting the pedals with
partial strokes.
"Bicycling
Magazine’s Mountain Biking Skills" is an outstanding
introduction into the sport of off-road cycling. Numerous
illustrations, a glossary of terms and an index complement the book’s
instructional approach. In addition to its easy-to-use layout, the
"Trail Mix" and "Ask Uncle Knobby" inserts
provide a wealth of information and advice on virtually every facet
of off-road cycling. This book is highly recommended to anyone who
is an off-road biker or considering participating in this activity.
For
more information, visit the library at 725 Pekin St. or call
217-732-8878.
[Richard
Sumrall, Lincoln Public Library District]
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