All Mountain Biking involves a mixture of fitness and machine control. Getting started is often simply a case of getting a basic mountain bike (a simple Cross-Country hardtail is ideal) and going out and exploring the local countryside. Downhill and 4-Cross are rough, tough, challenging disciplines, requiring nerve, fitness and great bike control and skill. Cross-County and Enduro/Marathon racing put the emphasis more on sheer physical fitness. All are compelling and rewarding.

The Bikes
Bikes are extremely light and often very technically advanced. There has been a move towards full suspension (suspension for both front and back wheels) in recent years, but for some courses and conditions a "hardtail" is still favoured by many competitors.

Who races MTB?
Cross-Country events usually have several races catering for a range of abilities and age groups and are an ideal environment in which to learn the bike handling and tactical skills necessary to succeed. Look out for Fun categories - there are also often categories for younger riders and age related categories for over-thirties.

Regional Racing dates can be found here.

Read More about MTB here

Locate your nearest Club

Use British Cycling's Club Finder to find out about MTB clubs in the North East.