Mountain Biking

Mountain biking is a sport where riders go on bumpy trails in forests and hills. The bikes have thick tires and strong brakes. Riders go up steep hills and down rocky paths. It is both fun and great exercise. People enjoy mountain biking all over the world.

Mountain Bikes

Mountain bikes are built to handle rough ground. They have wide tires with deep bumps for grip. Most have springs called shocks that soak up bumps. The bikes have many gears to help riders climb hills. A good mountain bike is strong but not too heavy.

Mountain bikers race down a bumpy, rocky dirt trail.
Mountain bikers race down a bumpy, rocky dirt trail. (Wikimedia Commons)

Where People Ride

Mountain bikers ride on dirt trails, in forests, and on mountains. Some trails are easy and flat, while others are steep and tricky. Riders must watch out for rocks, roots, and mud. Helmets and gloves help keep riders safe. Many parks have special trails just for mountain bikes.

Fun Facts

  • Mountain biking began in California in the 1970s.
  • The first mountain bikes were old bikes with fat tires called 'klunkers.'
  • Mountain biking became an Olympic sport in 1996.

Did You Know?

Some downhill mountain bikers can ride faster than 50 miles per hour on steep trails.