If you’ve loved riding bikes since childhood, you’ll know this practice is far more complex than it seems. Pedalling through the mountains is a full-blown adventure, considered a sport better known as MTB (Mountain Biking).
Among the countless people who practice this sport – whether professionally or simply as a way to unwind – we find different styles, each with distinct characteristics. Ready to explore them?
1. Cross Country
This MTB discipline is one of the most popular due to its low difficulty. It’s often the starting point for most enthusiasts. Here, you’ll push yourself on every climb and descent. The route features few obstacles, and the track is wide.
2. Downhill
This discipline demands technique and training, as it’s a timed downhill race where riders face natural or man-made obstacles along the trail, all while aiming to reach the finish line as fast as possible.
3. Enduro
A mix of the two categories above. The magic of this discipline lies in tackling high-mountain terrain and overcoming every natural element in your path. You’ll need to give your all on every descent and keep the bike spinning!
4. Dirt Jump
One of the most iconic disciplines, thanks to its televised spectacle. The goal is to jump from one dirt mound (or obstacle) to another, performing tricks mid-air. Within this MTB style, you’ll find endless jumps and stunts.
5. Freeride
If you want to feel utterly free on an MTB, this is the discipline for you. Be warned: it’s a full adventure, as you’ll descend mountains through uncharted zones with no trails. It requires focus, fitness, and even pre-ride terrain scouting to make the experience flawless.
6. All Mountain
Perhaps one of the most challenging disciplines. Here, you’ll prove your skill on two wheels. The real test lies in high-speed descents with obstacles to overcome. Climbs are less technical, and the primary terrain is trails.
Beyond these disciplines, the current scene includes others like:
- Marathon Bike: A competition with marked routes featuring varied challenges, open to both amateurs and pros.
- Slalom: A downhill course with flags, mimicking ski slalom tracks.
Now that you know the different MTB disciplines, choose the one that suits you best – whether for leisurely rides or competitive thrills.
